‘Vote Adhikar Yatra Failed To Have A Big Impact In Bihar’

Prashant Manav, a student associated with socio-political movements in Bihar, says Election Commission’s rolls revision has made the state voter suspicious of SIR. His views:

Rahul Gandhi began his “Vote Adhikar Yatra” in Bihar from the historic land of Sasaram. He was the central face of this journey. While it can be considered successful, calling it a “great success” would be an overstatement. This yatra only covered a few districts; out of Bihar’s 38 districts, he was only able to cover 23.

These 23 districts contain about 50 assembly constituencies, where the Mahagathbandhan had won 23 seats in the 2020 assembly elections. Specifically, if we talk about Congress, they contested on 20 of those 50 seats and won eight. Based on these figures, it’s evident that the purpose of the Yatra was to secure their existing strongholds and consolidate some potentially favourable seats. So to say this Yatra had a massive impact across all of Bihar would be incorrect.

Regarding the crowds — yes, there was a significant turnout, but not to the extent that was expected. In fact, had it not been for the RJD workers, even those crowds could have been questionable. Many of the cities and places he visited are already strongholds of the alliance.

As for the ‘vote theft issue’, it has certainly stirred anger within some specific communities, which may benefit the Mahagathbandhan. But overall across Bihar, the issue of vote tampering hasn’t become a major concern for the general public.

Removing 6.5 million voters from the electoral list is no small matter. In a state like Bihar, where administrative flaws are frequently exposed, people are naturally suspicious of how the Election Commission managed to execute such a massive task in such a short time. Under the SIR (Special Intensive Revision) process, removing so many voters so quickly raises serious questions — like, under whose influence did the Commission make such a huge decision?

It seems that this mass deletion disproportionately targeted specific communities, and such a detailed, strategic plan could only have been prepared by those in power — likely developed over years. If the decision was truly neutral and independent, it wouldn’t have been implemented so hastily.

ALSO READ: ‘Nitish Kumar Is Bound To Lose CM’s Chair This Year’

Another major controversy was the discovery of more than 200 registered voters at a single empty house. This kind of mistake shows administrative manipulation, as these entries were accepted without proper verification.

Unemployment in India has risen significantly in recent years, and the current government is largely responsible for this. It is the government’s duty to create jobs and opportunities — but no such effective policies have emerged. Even when job openings are announced, recruitment processes are often marred by corruption. This has left the poor, middle class, and educated youth frustrated. So, yes, the reason why youth are attending Rahul Gandhi’s rallies is primarily due to their anger with the current government.

Nitish Kumar remains a key factor in the upcoming 2025 Bihar elections. Ignoring his presence in this election is not just difficult, it’s impossible. He still retains credibility among a section of voters, largely due to his role in freeing Bihar from the so-called ‘Jungle Raj’ era. That generation still respects him and plays a decisive role in the ‘family-vote’.

The BJP-led alliance NDA has played a masterstroke by launching the ‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana’ (Chief Minister Women Employment Scheme), similar to schemes in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Maharashtra. This is a well-timed move to attract women voters just before elections. Besides, with 6.5 million voters removed, NDA stands to gain substantially. Their political strategy has always focused on specific communities and issues, and now they can concentrate even more narrowly on those groups.

Bihar has always led the country in political thought and revolutionary movements. However, in recent assembly elections, it seems to have lost that leadership spark — it’s a progressive state only in name, still categorized among the BIMARU states. There may be a political shift in the future, but as of now, no clear sign of that change is visible.

(The narrator is a student of MIT SOG Student (MPG Batch-20), Pune with roots in Bihar. Currently, he is pursuing internship as a political assistant to Pushpam Priya Choudhary, founder of The Plurals Party, an initiative to bring in grassroots change in Bihar.)

As told to Amit Sengupta

Delhi BMW Case: Gaganpreet Kaur in 2-Day Judicial Custody, Court Issues Bail Notice

Delhi’s Patiala House court on Monday remanded Gaganpreet Kaur, accused in the Delhi BMW crash, to two days’ judicial custody. She was produced at the judge’s residence by the Delhi Police.

The court has issued notice on the bail plea of Gaganpreet Kaur.

Duty Judicial Magistrate First Class Akanksha Singh remanded Gaganpreet Kaur, who is to be produced before the court on September 17.

Senior advocate Vikas Pahwa appeared for the accused. Advocate Ishan Dewan appeared for the victims. It was also said that there are many contradictions in the facts.

Counsel for the accused opposed the judicial remand application. Senior advocate submitted that there was a delay of 10 hours in the registration of the FIR.

A bail application has been filed on behalf of Gaganpreet Kaur. The court issued a notice to the Delhi police.

The court also list the bail application for hearing on September 17. She is also to be produced on the next date.

The BMW car rammed into a motorcycle on Sunday. The motorcycle also hit a bus on the left during the impact.

Navjot Singh, an employee of the Ministry of Finance and a resident of Hari Nagar, was declared dead. His wife sustained multiple fractures and head injuries.

Deceased Navjot’s advocate, Ishan Dewan, told ANI, “… The police demanded judicial custody and not police custody. The court has granted judicial custody for two days. The lawyer of the accused has moved a bail application today… What is important right now is that the unfortunate incident that has happened should not happen again… We will present all facts in the court…” (ANI)

Anurag Kashyap Says Mohit Suri Waited 7 Years To Make ‘Saiyaara’

Have you ever wondered how long a filmmaker would wait for the right opportunity to bring their vision to life?

For Mohit Suri, it was nearly seven years of persistence, despite facing rejection after rejection for his recent blockbuster ‘Saiyaara’.

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap recently praised Suri for holding on to his guns and staying committed to his “story” despite facing numerous challenges and rejections along the way.

While speaking to ANI, Kashyap shared that the filmmaker was determined to make the film with newcomers and in his own style, even when producers didn’t see the potential.

“Very few people hold on to their stories like Mohit Suri did with ‘Saiyaara’. So many producers refused; nobody understood it. Usko naye logon ke saath banani thi, jaise banani thi waise banani thi, lekin usne chhodi nahin picture, usne suffer kiya uske liye, 6 saal 7 saal suffer kiya, banayi usne. (He wanted to make it with new actors, in his own way, and he did not give up. He suffered for 6-7 years but still made it.)”

The film, which starred newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, went on to become a surprise hit.

Anurag also opened up about why so many filmmakers struggle to bring “fresh ideas” to the big screen. He pointed out that while writers and directors have a lot to offer in terms of new stories, the real “roadblock” is the producers. According to him, they are more focused on playing it safe and opting for “safe bets,” always looking for the next guaranteed hit rather than taking a chance on something original.

“Fresh stories hain, aisa nahin hai. Humari industry mein sabse badi dikkat hai producers. Humare jo producers hain, woh decide karte hain kya chalega aur kya nahin chalega, kyunki woh sirf hit filmein banana chahte hain. They don’t understand anything new or nuanced. Writers and directors have a lot of fresh ideas, and they really want to do them,” Anurag said.

Meanwhile, Anurag is now preparing for his upcoming crime drama ‘Nishaanchi’. The film will feature Aaishvary Thackeray in a double role as Babloo and Dabloo, along with Vedika Pinto in a key role. The film is scheduled to release on September 19. (ANI)

PM Modi Lays Inaugurates Development Works Worth Around Rs 40,000 Crore In Purnea, Bihar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development works worth around Rs 40,000 crore in Purnea, Bihar, on Sunday.Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister extended his respectful greetings to all. He remarked that Purnea is the land of Maa Puran Devi, Bhakt Prahlad, and Maharshi Mehi Baba. PM Modi highlighted that this soil has given birth to literary giants like Phanishwarnath Renu and Satinath Bhaduri. He further noted that it has been the karmabhoomi of dedicated karmayogis like Vinoba Bhave and reiterated his deep reverence for this land, said the statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.Announcing the inauguration and foundation laying of development projects worth approximately ₹40,000 crore for Bihar, PM highlighted that these projects–spanning railways, airports, electricity, and water–will serve as a means to fulfill the aspirations of Seemanchal. He stated that over 40,000 beneficiaries have received permanent housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.The Prime Minister remarked that today marks a new beginning in the lives of these 40,000 families. He noted that entering a permanent home before Dhanteras, Diwali, and Chhath Puja is a matter of great fortune. He extended his congratulations and best wishes to all these families.Stating that today’s occasion also serves to reassure his homeless brothers and sisters that they too will one day receive a permanent home, the Prime Minister highlighted that over the past 11 years, the government has built and provided more than four crore permanent houses to the poor. He added that the government is now working to construct 3 crore new homes.PM Modi affirmed that until every poor citizen receives a permanent house, Modi will neither stop nor pause. He emphasised that prioritising the marginalised and serving the poor is the core objective of his governance.The Prime Minister stated that today, on the occasion of Engineers’ Day, the nation pays tribute to M. Visvesvaraya, emphasising the significant role engineers play in building a developed India and a developed Bihar. He extended his congratulations and best wishes to all engineers across the country.PM Modi highlighted that the dedication and skill of engineers are evident in today’s event as well. He noted that the terminal building of Purnea Airport was constructed in a record time of less than five months. He announced the inauguration of the terminal and flagged off the first commercial flight.”With the launch of the new airport, Purnea has now been placed on the country’s aviation map”, stressed the PM, remarking that this will enable direct connectivity between Purnea and Seemanchal with major cities and key commercial hubs across the nation.”Our Government is connecting the entire region with modern, high-tech rail services”, exclaimed PM Modi. He flagged off one Vande Bharat, two Amrit Bharat, and one passenger train today. He announced the inauguration of the new Araria-Galgalia rail line and laid the foundation stone for the Vikramshila-Kataria rail line.Mentioning that the Government of India has recently taken another major decision by approving the Mokama-Munger section of the Buxar-Bhagalpur high-speed corridor, the PM highlighted that this will greatly benefit industrial hubs such as Munger, Jamalpur, and Bhagalpur. He further announced that the government has also approved the doubling of the Bhagalpur-Dumka-Rampurhat rail line.PM Modi remarked that for the development of the nation, the development of Bihar is essential. He further highlighted that for Bihar’s progress, the development of Purnea and the Seemanchal region is crucial.The Prime Minister noted that the region had suffered significant losses due to the mismanagement of previous governments. He stated that their government is now changing the situation. The Prime Minister emphasised that this region is now at the centre of the development focus.Highlighting that efforts are underway to make Bihar self-reliant in the power sector, the PM remarked that a 2400 MW thermal power project has been inaugurated in Pirpainti, Bhagalpur. He emphasised that their governments at the Union and State are committed to increasing the income of farmers and livestock rearers.PM Modi also announced the foundation laying of the first phase of the Kosi-Mechi intra-state river link project, which will expand the Eastern Kosi Main Canal. This expansion will facilitate irrigation across lakhs of hectares and help address the challenge of floods.The Prime Minister noted that makhana cultivation has been a source of income for Bihar’s farmers, but previous governments neglected both the crop and the farmers. He asserted that it is the current government that has given makhana the priority it deserves.”I had promised the people of Bihar the formation of a National Makhana Board. He announced that the Central Government has issued the notification for its establishment just yesterday”, stated the Prime Minister, emphasising that the Board will work continuously to ensure better prices for makhana farmers and to enhance the use of technology in the sector. He further highlighted that the government has approved a plan worth nearly ₹475 crore for the development of the makhana sector.Remarking that Bihar’s current pace of development and progress is unsettling for some, PM Modi stated that those who exploited Bihar for decades and betrayed its soil are unwilling to accept that Bihar can now set new benchmarks. The Prime Minister highlighted that thousands of crores worth of development projects are underway across every sector in Bihar.He cited major achievements, including the hosting of the Hockey Asia Cup in Rajgir, the historic construction of the Aunta-Simaria bridge, and the export of Made-in-Bihar rail engines to Africa. He asserted that these accomplishments are difficult for opposition leaders to digest. Pointing out that whenever Bihar advances, opposition parties resort to insulting the state.He referred to a recent instance where one of the opposition parties compared Bihar to a bidi on social media, reflecting deep-seated contempt. He accused these parties of damaging Bihar’s reputation through scams and corruption, and now attempting to defame the state again as it progresses. He emphasised that individuals with such a mindset can never work for Bihar’s welfare.Those concerned only with filling their own coffers, he said, cannot care about the homes of the poor. The Prime Minister recalled that a former Prime Minister had admitted that out of every ₹1 sent by the government, ₹0.85 was lost to corruption. He questioned whether, under opposition rule, money ever reached the poor directly. PM Modi highlighted that since the COVID-19 pandemic, every poor citizen has been receiving free rations.He asked whether such benefits were ever provided under opposition governments. The Prime Minister further noted that under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, every poor person now has access to free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh. He questioned whether those who failed to build hospitals could have ever provided such healthcare benefits.Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that opposition parties pose a threat not only to Bihar’s dignity but also to its identity. He highlighted the grave demographic crisis emerging in Seemanchal and Eastern India due to illegal infiltrators.PM Modi expressed concern that people in Bihar, Bengal, and Assam are increasingly worried about the safety of their sisters and daughters. He recalled announcing the Demography Mission from the Red Fort to address this issue. The Prime Minister criticised the opposition alliance and its ecosystem for defending infiltrators and attempting to shield them for vote-bank politics.PM Modi asserted that these groups are willing to jeopardise both the resources and security of Bihar and the nation. Speaking from the soil of Purnea, he declared that every infiltrator must be removed. He affirmed that sealing infiltration is a firm responsibility of their government. Issuing a direct challenge, the Prime Minister called on leaders defending infiltrators to come forward. He stated that no matter how hard they try to protect infiltrators, the government will continue working with resolve to remove them.He warned those acting as shields for infiltrators that Indian law will prevail, not the whims of illegal entrants. He assured the nation that this is his guarantee: action will be taken against infiltrators and the country will witness the results. PM Modi criticised the opposition alliance for promoting narratives in support of infiltration and declared that the people of Bihar and India are preparing to give them a strong and decisive response.Prime Minister stated that the opposition has been out of power in Bihar for the past two decades, and credited the women of Bihar–its mothers and sisters–as the driving force behind this change. He remarked that during the opposition party regime, women were the primary victims of rampant crimes such as murder, rape, and extortion.PM highlighted that under our governments at the Union and State, these same women are now emerging as “Lakhpati Didis” and “Drone Didis,” leading a transformative revolution through self-help groups. He praised the unprecedented success of the Jeevika Didi campaign under the leadership of Nitish Kumar.The Prime Minister announced that a Community Investment Fund of approximately ₹500 crore has been released for women. He explained that this amount will reach cluster-level federations, which will empower self-help groups across villages. He emphasised that this initiative will provide women with new opportunities to enhance their capabilities and economic strength.PM Modi said that for the opposition, the welfare of their own families has always been their top priority, and they have never cared for the families of the people. He emphasised that for him, every citizen is part of his family.Therefore, he said, he worries about the people’s expenses and their savings. With several festivals approaching, including Diwali and Chhath, the Prime Minister announced a major gift from the government for the poor and middle class.He noted that today is 15 September, and exactly one week later, Navratri will begin. On that day, 22 September, GST will be reduced across the country. PM Modi highlighted that GST has been significantly lowered on most daily-use items. Addressing the women present, he stated that the reduction in GST will substantially ease kitchen expenses. Items such as toothpaste, soap, shampoo, ghee, and various food products will become more affordable.He added that the cost of stationery used in children’s education will also decrease. This festive season, buying new clothes and shoes for children will be easier, as these too will be cheaper. The Prime Minister added by asserting that when a government truly cares for the poor, it delivers such impactful measures.Recalling that the sons of Purnea had demonstrated India’s strength to the British during the freedom struggle, the Prime Minister remarked that once again, through Operation Sindoor, the nation has shown that same strength to its adversaries.PM Modi highlighted the significant role played by a brave son of Purnea in the strategic execution of the operation. He emphasised that whether it is national security or national development, Bihar plays a vital role in the country’s progress. He concluded by urging that the momentum of Bihar’s development campaign must continue with full force.The Governor of Bihar, Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, Union Ministers, Rammohan Naidu, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Jitan Ram Manji, Giriraj Singh, Chirag Paswan, Nityanand Rai, Ram Nath Thakur, Dr Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Satish Chandra Dubey were present among other dignitaries at the event.Prime Minister launched the National Makhana Board in Bihar. The Board will promote production and new technology development, strengthen post-harvest management, promote value addition and processing and facilitate market, export and brand development in Makhana, thereby benefiting the Makhana farmers of Bihar and the country.Bihar accounts for approximately 90% of the country’s total Makhana production. Key districts, such as Madhubani, Darbhanga, Sitamarhi, Saharsa, Katihar, Purnea, Supaul, Kishanganj, and Araria, serve as primary hubs due to their favourable climatic conditions and fertile soil, which contribute to the superior quality of makhana.The establishment of the Makhana Board in Bihar will give a major boost to the Makhana production in the State and the country and strengthen the presence of Bihar on the global map in this sector.The Prime Minister inaugurated the Interim Terminal Building at the New Civil Enclave of Purnea Airport, which will enhance passenger handling capacity in the region.Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth around Rs 40,000 crore at Purnea.The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the 3×800 MW thermal power project at Pirpainti, Bhagalpur. It will be Bihar’s largest private sector investment worth Rs 25,000 crore. It is designed using ultra-supercritical, low-emission technology. The project will provide dedicated power and strengthen Bihar’s energy security.Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of Phase 1 of Kosi-Mechi Intra-State River Link Project worth over Rs 2680 crore. It will focus on upgrading the canal including desilting, reconstruction of damaged structures, and renovation of the settling basin, while also enhancing its discharge capacity from 15,000 to 20,000 cusecs. It will benefit multiple districts in northeastern Bihar with irrigation expansion, flood control, and agricultural resilience.In line with his commitment to improve rail connectivity, Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of rail projects and flagged off multiple trains in Bihar.Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of Rail Line between Bikramshila – Katareah worth over Rs 2,170 crore, providing direct rail link across the river Ganga. It will provide a direct rail link across the Ganga significantly benefitting people in the region.Prime Minister inaugurated the new Rail Line between Arariya – Galgalia (Thakurganj) worth over Rs 4,410 crore.Prime Minister flagged off train in Araria – Galgalia (Thakurganj) Section which establishes direct rail connectivity between Araria and Kishanganj districts, significantly improving access across Northeastern Bihar. He also flagged off Vande Bharat Express Train between Jogbani and Danapur, directly benefitting districts such as Araria, Purnea, Madhepura, Saharsa, Khagaria, Begusarai, Samastipur, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, and Patna.He will also flag off Amrit Bharat Express Trains between Saharsa and Chheharta (Amritsar) and Jogbani and Erode. These trains will provide modern interiors, improved facilities, and faster travel capabilities, while enhancing economic, cultural, and social integration across regions.Prime Minister also inaugurated the Sex Sorted Semen Facility at Purnea. It is a state-of-the-art semen station under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, capable of producing 5 lakh sex-sorted semen doses annually.The facility, first of its kind in eastern and north-eastern India, uses indigenously developed technology launched in October 2024, aligning with the vision of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. By enabling higher chances of female calf births, the technology will help small, marginal farmers and landless labourers secure more replacement heifers, reduce economic stress, and raise incomes through improved dairy productivity.Prime Minister also participated in Griha Pravesh ceremonies being held for 35,000 rural beneficiaries under PMAY (R) and 5,920 urban beneficiaries under PMAY (U) and handed over keys to a few beneficiaries. (ANI)

US Homeland Security Slams Biden Admin After Brutal Murder Of Chandra Nagamalliah

US Homeland Security condemns brutual murder of Chandra Nagamalliah, holds Biden administration responsible for release of accused earlier

The US Department of Homeland Security condemned the brutal murder of the Indian national Chandra Nagamalliah in Texas by Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, stating that the incident could have been completely prventable if the “criminal illegal alien” had not been released by the Biden administration.

In a post on social media X, the US DHS stated that the incident highlighted why illegal aliens were being removed to third countries and no longer being allowed to stay in America.

“This vile monster beheaded a man in front of his wife and child and proceeded to kick the victims’ head on the ground. This gruesome, savage slaying of a victim at a motel by Yordanis Cobos-Martinez was completely preventable if this criminal illegal alien was not released into our country by the Biden Administration since Cuba would not take him back.

This is exactly why we are removing criminal illegal aliens to third countries. President Trump and @Sec_Noem are no longer allowing barbaric criminals to indefinitely remain in America. If you come to our country illegally, you could end up in Eswatini, Uganda, South Sudan, or CECOT,” the post read.

A day earlier, US President Donald Trump said that the accused would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and would be charged with murder in the first degree.

In a post on Truth Social on Sunday (local time), Trump stated that he was aware of the terrible reports regarding the murder of Chandra Nagamallaiah, a well-respected person in Dallas, Texas, who was brutally beheaded, in front of his wife and son, by an “Illegal alien” from Cuba.

Trump also slammed former President Joe Biden and blamed him for the “criminal” being released back into the US during his administration.

“I am aware of the terrible reports regarding the murder of Chandra Nagamallaiah, a well respected person in Dallas, Texas, who was brutally beheaded, in front of his wife and son, by an ILLEGAL ALIEN from Cuba who should have never been in our Country. This individual was previously arrested for terrible crimes, including child sex abuse, grand theft auto, and false imprisonment, but was released back into our Homeland under incompetent Joe Biden because Cuba did not want such an evil person in their Country. Rest assured, the time for being soft on these Illegal Immigrant Criminals is OVER under my watch! Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Border Czar Tom Homan, and many others in my Administration are doing an incredible job in MAKING AMERICA SAFE AGAIN. This criminal, who we have in custody, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the Law. He will be charged with murder in the first degree!” Trump posted on Truth Social. (ANI)

Vantara Welcomes SC Order; Calls Allegations Against Its Animal Welfare Mission Baseless

Animal rescue and rehabilitation centre Vantara has welcomed the findings of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), appointed by the Supreme Court and noted that SIT’s report and the apex court order have made it clear that the doubts and allegations raised against Vantara’s animal welfare mission “were without any basis”.

Team Vantara said in a statement that the “validation of the truth” by the SIT is “not just a relief for everyone at Vantara but also a blessing, because it allows our work to speak for itself”.

“With utmost humility and gratitude, we welcome the findings of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), appointed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The SIT’s report and the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s order have made it clear that the doubts and allegations raised against Vantara’s animal welfare mission were without any basis,” the statement said.

“The validation of the truth by the distinguished and widely respected members of the SIT is not just a relief for everyone at Vantara but also a blessing, because it allows our work to speak for itself. The SIT’s findings and the Apex Court’s order give us further strength and encouragement to continue serving with humility and devotion to those who cannot speak for themselves,” it added.

The statement said that the entire Vantara family expresses heartfelt gratitude for this affirmation and reassures everyone of our lifelong commitment to protecting and caring for animals and birds with compassion.

“Vantara has always been about love, compassion, and responsibility towards the voiceless among us. Every animal we rescue, every bird we heal, every life we save is a reminder that their well-being is not separate from our own — it is an inseparable part of the well-being of all humanity,” it said.

“When we care for animals, we are also caring for the soul of humanity. We take this occasion to pledge our solidarity with the Government of India, State Governments, and all other stakeholders involved in the huge and challenging task of animal care, and affirm that Vantara will always be ready to work in close collaboration with them. Let’s together make Mother Earth a better place for all living beings,” it added.

Earlier in the day, Supreme Court stated that it will not permit any party to raise unnecessary objections against Vantara, an animal rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, if satisfied that the facility is in compliance with all laws and regulations with regard to the acquisition and treatment of animals.

A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and Prasanna B. Varale said that there are certain things in India that we take pride in and we should not unnecessarily raise hue and cry for everything. “Allow certain good things to happen in the country also. We should be happy about such things” the Court remarked.

The Courts’ oral observations came while hearing a petition. The SIT submitted its report to the Supreme Court. (ANI)

‘Was In Panic’: BMW Crash Accused Tells Delhi Police On Skipping Nearest Hospital

Delhi Police on Monday said that the 38-year-old woman driver of the BMW car, Gaganpreet Kaur, told them that she was in panic, so instead of taking the BMW accident victim to a nearby hospital, she drove him to Nulife Hospital in GTB Nagar.

On asking particularly, why she did not take them to the nearby hospital, she stated that she was in panic and she knew only this Hospital as her kids were admitted there during covid. She used to assist her husband in the business of cloth-based horse saddles, according to Delhi Police.

Gaganpreet Makkad, the driver of the BMW involved in a fatal accident near Delhi Cantt metro station, was arrested by Delhi Police on Monday. The incident claimed the life of Navjot Singh, a Deputy Secretary in the Finance Ministry, and critically injured his wife, Sandeep Kaur.

Meanwhile, Delhi Police said that the blood sample report with regard to allegations of intoxication is awaited.

The accident occurred on September 14 near Dhaula Kuan around 1:30 pm as the couple returned from Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. The BMW hit Navjot Singh’s motorcycle; Singh died, and his wife Sandeep Kaur was severely injured.

Delhi Police said, “Gaganpreet Makkad was arrested during the investigation. She stated that she, along with her husband, 2 kids (6-year-old daughter, 4-year-old son) and maid were going from Gurugram to her house. During further interrogation, she could not recall the cause of the accident. She stated that the public took her out of the vehicle. She saw the deceased and injured on the road. In the meantime, the driver of the Portar Van Gulfam stopped the van. He stated that the public got the deceased and his wife in the car. Later, a lady came into the front seat and asked him to go to the Hospital in Azadpur.”

Earlier, a Delhi Police team on Monday visited the residence of the deceased victim, Navjot Singh, as part of the investigation into the Dhaula Kuan BMW accident and recorded the statement of eyewitness Gulfam, who took the injured to Nulife Hospital.

Dr Shakuntala Kumar, Director at Nulife Hospital, GTB Nagar, on Monday, said the deceased in the Dhaula Kuan BMW accident was brought dead to the facility, while his injured wife was stable and later referred to another hospital on her request.

Speaking to ANI, Dr Kumar said, “Around 2 PM yesterday, a medico-legal case related to a road accident involving a car and a motorcycle was brought to our hospital. First aid was offered, and the police were informed. A man aged between 50 and 57 years was brought in dead, and his wife, who sustained injuries but was vitally stable, was also brought in.”

She said the wife opted for further treatment elsewhere.

“As per the choice of this lady, who was brought along with this man, after first aid and necessary stabilisation, she was transferred to another hospital for further management on her request,” she said.

Dr Kumar also confirmed that two additional patients, both car occupants, were treated in the hospital’s emergency department.

“Both were provided immediate medical aid. One female patient, after initial observation and treatment, has been discharged in stable condition. The male patient, following advice from our critical care team, has been referred to a higher centre for advanced management,” she said.

Meanwhile, deceased Navjyot’s cousin Shailendra said accountability was essential if the accused driver was found responsible.

“First thing is that if she (accused) has made mistakes, whether it is before the accident, rash driving or after the accident. If there are mistakes, intentional and unintentional, and if the police find this thing in the inquiry, then definitely she has to pay the price,” he told ANI.

He also raised questions about why Navjyot was not immediately taken to the nearest hospital with emergency facilities.

Shailendra said, “The logical choice in any accident, especially if you are trying to rescue someone, is always the hospital that is nearest to you and that has the infrastructure to handle emergency cases. If they did not take him there, what was their reason behind it? I really don’t know…but those decisions were wrong.”

Earlier, an FIR was registered by Delhi Police in the BMW-motorcycle accident that occurred on Sunday near Dhaula Kuan on Ring Road, which resulted in the death of the motorcycle rider. (ANI)

Trump Says US-China Trade Talks In Europe ‘Gone Very Well’

US President Donald Trump on Monday said that a major trade meeting in Europe between the United States and China has “gone very well” .

He also indicated a deal with China concerning TikTok.

Trump said he will speak with President Xi Jinping on Friday, and the relationship between the two countries “remains very strong”.

“The big Trade Meeting in Europe between The United States of America, and China, has gone VERY WELL! It will be concluding shortly. A deal was also reached on a ‘certain’ company that young people in our Country very much wanted to save. They will be very happy! I will be speaking to President Xi on Friday. The relationship remains a very strong one!!! President DJT,” Trump said on his social media handle Truth Social.Earlier in the day, Trump also touched upon the future of TikTok in the United States, saying that China will ultimately play a key role in deciding the app’s fate as trade negotiations between the two countries continue.

Linking the discussions to broader economic and technological talks, he told reporters in New Jersey before returning to Washington, “I may, I may not. We’re negotiating TikTok right now. We may let it die, or we may, I don’t know. It depends, up to China. It doesn’t matter too much. I’d like to do it for the kids. They like it.”

“I mean, selfishly speaking, I did very well with TikTok, and I got the youth vote. I got numbers that nobody’s ever even come close to in the Republican Party, nobody,” he added.

As per The New York Times, Trump has until September 17 to enforce or delay a law requiring TikTok to be separated from its Chinese owner, ByteDance, or face a ban in the US.

The President has already delayed enforcing the law three times. Congress passed the bipartisan legislation last year to ban TikTok in the country unless it found a non-Chinese owner because of concerns that the social media app’s ties to China made it a national security threat to the US, as per The New York Times.

Talks with China have been more complicated. Trump imposed 145 per cent tariffs on Chinese imports in April, essentially halting trade, before lowering that levy to 30 per cent. China put 10 per cent tariffs on American products.

Last Saturday, China announced that it was opening an investigation into exports of certain microchips that are made in the US. The day before, the US Commerce Department said it was adding Chinese chip companies to a trade blacklist. The moves are expected to put additional pressure on the talks.

The world’s two largest economies have been discussing further tariff reductions and the status of China’s restrictions on shipments of rare earth minerals and magnets critical to US manufacturers. The Trump administration is also concerned that China has stopped buying American agricultural products, threatening the livelihood of soybean farmers.

Bessent has criticised China’s excess industrial capacity, describing its economy as unbalanced, and urged his Chinese counterparts to curb purchases of oil from Russia and Iran.

Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping could meet next month at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in South Korea. Trump has also suggested that he may visit China at some point on Xi’s invitation. (ANI)

Sonakshi, Sudheer Babu Starrer ‘Jatadhara’ Set For Nov Release

Sonakshi Sinha and Sudheer Babu starrer much-awaited Telugu film ‘Jatadhara’ is set to officially hit theatres on November 7.

On Monday, the makers announced the film’s release date, revealing that it will be out in both Hindi and Telugu languages. They also unveiled a jaw-dropping motion poster of ‘Jatadhara’, taking the excitement to the next level.

Sonakshi Sinha also shared the same on her Instagram handle and wrote, “From the depths of darkness the divine rises. #Jatadhara in theatres from Nov 7th 2025 in Telugu & Hindi #JatadharaOnNOV7 #Awakeningbegins.”

The motion poster appears to be crackling with energy, as divine chants reverberate alongside cosmic visuals.

With a multi-star cast of actors like Sudheer Babu, Sonakshi Sinha, Divya Khossla, Shilpa Shirodkar, Indira Krishna, Ravi Prakash, Naveen Neni, Rohit Pathak, Jhansi, Rajeev Kanakala, and Subhalekha Sudhakar, the film promises to be an “unforgettable clash of good vs evil, of light vs darkness, of human will vs cosmic fate,” the makers said, as per the press release.

Directors Venkat Kalyan and Abhishek Jaiswal shared that ‘Jatadhara’ is rooted in a folk tale, where darkness will collide with divine power, bringing audiences face-to-face with God. “It’s a story of faith, fear, and cosmic destiny,” they added.

Besides the exciting posters of the film, an official teaser of the film was unveiled in August.

In the one-minute-12-second teaser, Sudheer Babu appears as a powerful character “born from sacrifice,” while Sonakshi Sinha is seen in a never-before-seen look as a mystical figure “created by greed.” The teaser hints at an intense face-off between the two.

Sonakshi’s look has caught many by surprise; she appears in a dark, magical form, with long hair and detailed ornaments.

On the work front, the actress was recently seen in the horror drama ‘Nikita Roy,’ which hit theatres on July 18. (ANI)

Atul Wassan Makes Little of Indo-Pak Match Handshake Row

Former cricketer Atul Wassan defended Indian players as they refused to shake hands with the Pakistan team after their Asia Cup 2025 clash, saying that if the Suryakumar Yadav-led side is not willing, then why are the Men in Green insisting on it?

The India-Pakistan rivalry got another chapter in its storied history. With the match being the first between the two nations since the Pahalgam terror attacks on India back in April and consequent launch of Operation Sindoor by the Indian Armed Forces against Pakistan-sponsored terror, the tensions were at an all-time high.

Team India, battling backlash for even going ahead with the match in the multi-nation tournament, restricted Pakistan to 127/9. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav and Abhishek Sharma’s heroics with the bat were the highlights as India secured an easy seven-wicket win.

The highlight of the match occurred after the match, as the skipper and his batting partner walked off the field without shaking hands with the Pakistan team, and the skipper dedicated the win to the armed forces, while expressing solidarity with the Pahalgam victims.

On Indian cricketers refusing to shake hands with Pakistani cricketers during yesterday’s match, Former Indian cricketer Atul Wassan said, “They have become so shameless that they want to force us into shaking hands. What kind of mentality do they have? Everyone came to know that you had been insulted. If we are not willing to meet you, then why are you insisting?”

“They insulted themselves more after filing the complaint. The complaint shows how immature and juvenile they are. Our message was clear that we played for the ecosystem, but not to expect anything more from us because we don’t like you at all,” Wassan said.

In the aftermath of the incident, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi on Monday demanded “immediate removal” of the match referee of India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash, Andy Pycroft, “over the violation of the ICC Code of Conduct and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws.”

Speaking on the incident, Naqvi wrote on X, “The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup.”

Following the match, Pakistan skipper Salman Agha chose not to attend the post-match presentation, and for the press conference, head coach Mike Hesson was sent to face the media.

Following the match, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav expressed solidarity with Pahalgam terror attack victims and dedicated the win to the Indian Armed Forces and lauded their efforts in combating the Pakistan-sponsored terror, most notably the launch of Operation Sindoor in the aftermath of April’s Pahalgam terror attacks.

“Just wanted to say something. Perfect occasion, taking the time out, we stand by the families of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. We express our solidarity. Want to dedicate the win to all our armed forces who showed a lot of bravery. Hope they continue to inspire us all, and we give them more reasons on the ground whenever we get an opportunity to make them smile,” Suryakumar said after the win in the post-match interview.

Following that in the press conference, on being asked about a handshake being against the sportsman spirit, Suryakumar had replied, “I feel a few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit. I have told it at the presentation as well. We stand with all the victims of the Pahalagam terror attack. We stand with their families also and express our solidarity. As I said, we dedicate this win to our brave armed forces who took part in Operation Sindoor. As they continue to inspire us all, we will try our best to, whenever given the opportunity, inspire them as well if possible.” (ANI)