Important News - 2025-03-14
14 March 2025
Stay Updated. Stay Ahead!
📂 Categories & Latest Updates
Festivals (2)
Hyderabad Police Ensures Peaceful Holi and Friday Prayers with Enhanced Security
The Hyderabad Police ensured peaceful Holi celebrations and Friday prayers on March 15, 2024, by deploying additional security forces across the city. Over 2,000 personnel, including law and order officers, Task Force, Rapid Action Force, and Paramilitary Forces, were stationed in key areas, particularly in the Old City and south zone. At Mecca Masjid, a large congregation gathered for Friday prayers, and security was heightened with four additional platoons and 400 personnel. DCP South West Zone G. Chandra Mohan and Rachakonda Police Commissioner G. Sudheer Babu oversaw the operations, with a focus on visible policing and drunk-driving checks. Joint Commissioner (Traffic) Joel Davis reported that drunk driving checks were conducted at 15 locations on March 14, and all 31 police stations in Hyderabad carried out checks on Holi to control revellers, with shifts continuing until 3 a.m. on March 15.
Union Minister Pemmasani and Andhra Minister Lokesh Participate in Mangalagiri Temple Chariot Festival
The annual Brahmotsavams of the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Mangalagiri were celebrated with grandeur, featuring the ‘Divya Rathotsavam’ (chariot festival) on Friday. Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications, Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, and Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister, Nara Lokesh, participated in the event. Dr. Chandra Sekhar visited the temple, offered special prayers to Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy and His consort, and received ‘teertha prasadams’ from the priests. He was welcomed by Mr. Lokesh and devotees as he stepped forward to pull the divine chariot. Thousands of devotees gathered in the streets of Mangalagiri, chanting ‘Jai Narasimha’ and ‘Govinda’, creating a spiritually-charged atmosphere. Priests performed ‘harathi’ to the deities before the chariot procession began. Leaders and workers from the TDP, Jana Sena Party, and BJP actively participated, and temple authorities extended a ceremonial welcome to Mr. Lokesh upon his arrival.
Politics (5)
Former Congress MLA Bamber Thakur Shot at in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh
On March 14, 2025, former Congress MLA from Bilaspur, Bamber Thakur, was attacked by unidentified assailants at his residence in Himachal Pradesh. The attackers fired approximately 12 rounds of bullets, injuring both Thakur and his personal security officer (PSO). The incident occurred while Thakur was sitting in the courtyard of the government accommodation allotted to his wife in Bilaspur. Thakur sustained a bullet injury on his leg. The attackers reportedly fled towards the main market on foot. A manhunt has been initiated to apprehend the culprits. Thakur was referred to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla, while the PSO was taken to AIIMS Bilaspur. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has taken note of the incident and instructed the Deputy Commissioner to ensure necessary arrangements for Thakur's treatment. Barricades have been set up on roads to capture those involved in the shooting.
CPI(M) Accuses ED of Misinformation Campaign Against LDF Ahead of Elections
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has accused the Enforcement Directorate (ED) of resuming a misinformation campaign against the Left Democratic Front (LDF) ahead of the upcoming local body elections and the 2026 Assembly elections. CPI(M) State secretary M.V. Govindan stated that the ED’s summons to K. Radhakrishnan, MP, is part of a strategy to sway public opinion against the Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government. Govindan also highlighted that the High Court had previously criticized the ED for the illegal arrest of CPI(M) leader Aravindakshan in connection with the Karuvanoor Cooperative Bank scam. He expressed confidence that the public would see through the ED’s actions and continue to support the LDF. Additionally, Govindan addressed internal party matters, including the public appearance of an internal document and the party’s strategy to balance experienced and young leaders.
Shiv Sena Leader Mangat Rai Shot Dead in Punjab, Minor Injured
On March 13, 2025, a prominent Shiv Sena leader, Mangat Rai alias Manga, who served as the Moga district president of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, was shot dead in Punjab. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. when Manga, aged 52, was attacked by three unidentified assailants while he was out to buy groceries. Initially, a bullet missed Manga and injured a 12-year-old boy passing by. Manga attempted to flee on a two-wheeler but was pursued and fatally shot by the attackers. He was declared dead at the hospital, while the injured boy was referred to another hospital for advanced treatment. Based on a complaint filed by Manga’s wife, six individuals have been booked, and an investigation is ongoing. The family denied any personal enmity, but some groups protested, blaming the Aam Aadmi Party government for the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab. In a related incident on the same night, a salon owner in Bagiana Basti was shot and injured by three motorcycle riders, and a probe is underway.
Krishnaiah Opposes Telangana Government's Plan to Sell 400 Acres in Gachibowli
R. Krishnaiah, President of the National Backward Classes Welfare Association and Rajya Sabha member, has urged the Telangana government to cancel its decision to sell 400 acres of land in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, which falls within the University of Hyderabad (UoH) limits. He warned that if the government proceeds with the sale, student and Backward Class (BC) organizations will initiate a protest movement. Krishnaiah emphasized that government lands should be utilized for public welfare projects such as housing for the poor, government offices, schools, and hostels, rather than for commercial real estate. He also highlighted the lack of permanent buildings for 295 BC welfare hostels and 320 BC residential educational institutions in Telangana, suggesting that these lands could be used for such purposes. Krishnaiah further cautioned that if the government does not reconsider, the issue will be escalated to the Prime Minister and raised in Parliament. He also warned of potential protests at the AICC office in New Delhi if the sale proceeds.
Naidu and Lokesh Greet Jana Sena Party on 12th Foundation Day
Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, and Human Resource Development Minister, Nara Lokesh, extended their greetings to the Jana Sena Party (JSP) on its 12th Foundation Day. In a post on X, Naidu praised the party’s commitment to the economic and social growth of Andhra Pradesh, highlighting its role in driving progress and prosperity in the state. He also extended warm wishes to JSP chief Pawan Kalyan, leaders, workers, and followers. Lokesh, in a separate post, commended the JSP for its dedication to public service and value-based politics. The Jana Sena Party, founded in 2012, continues to play a significant role in the state’s political landscape.
Miscellaneous (4)
Primary Accused in ₹53 Lakh Investment Fraud Case Arrested in Tamil Nadu
The primary accused in a significant investment fraud case, involving a sum exceeding ₹53 lakh, has been apprehended in Tamil Nadu. Chandrashekharan, aged 49, from Ganeshapuram, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, was arrested by the Thrissur East police, led by Assistant Commissioner Saleesh N. Shankaran, under the supervision of Thrissur City Police Commissioner R. Ilanko. The fraud occurred in July 2023, when Chandrashekharan, operating under the guise of YESSIXX Traders, enticed over 18 individuals with promises of high profits and bank guarantees in exchange for investments in the green tea business. To gain trust, the company displayed green tea bags sourced from Ooty and provided bank guarantees to a few investors. Additionally, they introduced a commission-based scheme to recruit more investors, leading to a total scam amount of ₹53,50,000. The investigation revealed the accused’s location in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, where he was subsequently arrested. The accused was presented in court and remanded. The investigation team included East police station inspector Jijo M. J., sub-inspector Shibu, and assistant sub-inspector Jayakumar.
Clash at Golden Temple in Amritsar Leaves Five Injured, One Critical
On March 14, 2025, a violent clash occurred inside the premises of the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, resulting in injuries to at least five individuals. One of the victims was reported to be in serious condition and was admitted to the ICU. The incident took place at Shri Guru Ramdas Sarai, a lodging facility for pilgrims, where an assailant, identified as Zulfan, attacked people using iron pipes. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) handed over Zulfan to the police. According to Kotwali SHO Sarmel Singh, the clash involved individuals from both sides, and SGPC workers were also injured. The injured were treated at Guru Ramdas Hospital, which is managed by the SGPC. Dr. Jasmeet Singh stated that the assailant used a rod to assault the victims, and while one patient remains critical, the other four are stable. Further medical examinations, including a CT scan, are planned once the critical patient stabilizes.
Hyderabad Police Arrest Six in Major Drug Bust Operation
In a significant drug bust operation on Thursday, the police arrested six individuals, including four consumers, near a high-end apartment complex in KPHB Colony, Hyderabad. The operation led to the seizure of 260 grams of Ocean Grow (OG) Kush and 1,100 grams of ganja. Among the arrested were Tumula Ashish Kumar, a private employee from Mumbai, and Kattempudi Satwik, a student from KPHB. Kumar, who has a history of drug-related offenses, had allegedly sent Satwik to Mumbai with ₹2.5 lakh to procure the drugs. The police also recovered ₹7,500 in cash, empty jars, transparent covers, and batteries. The four consumers, identified as Perala Rahul, Perala Prathyush, Abrar Khan, and Jai Buddole, were caught while attempting to purchase the drugs. Further investigations are ongoing.
Three Arrested for Honey-Trapping and Robbing Astrologer in Palakkad
The Palakkad police arrested three individuals, including a woman, for allegedly honey-trapping and robbing an astrologer in Kozhinjampara. The arrested individuals are Ranjith from Nallepilly, S. Sreejesh from Kuttippuram, and Maimoona from Malappuram. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon when Maimoona and an accomplice lured the astrologer to Pratheesh’s house in Kallandichalla under the pretext of performing rituals. Pratheesh, the mastermind with a criminal history, forcibly stripped the astrologer, took compromising photos and videos, and stole his gold chain, mobile phone, and ₹2,000. The perpetrators demanded a ransom of ₹20 lakh, threatening to release the photos and videos on social media. A police team from Chittur arrived coincidentally, leading to the escape of the perpetrators and the astrologer. One inebriated woman was arrested on the spot, and the police are searching for seven more suspects, including Pratheesh.
Schemes (2)
Telangana Implements AI-Based FLN Program in All Government Schools
The Telangana State government has launched the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to teach Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) in all government schools across the State, starting from March 15, 2024. This initiative follows a successful pilot project conducted in six districts: Bhadradi Kothagudem, Khammam, Medak, Medchal-Malkajgiri, Narayanpet, and Vikarabad. The project, implemented by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) in collaboration with the Bengaluru-based EkStep Foundation, aims to enhance learning abilities among children in Classes III, IV, and V. The first phase of the project was initiated on February 24, 2024, in 41 government primary schools. Education Secretary Yogita Rana emphasized that the use of AI aligns with various schemes aimed at improving FLN. As part of the implementation, four individuals from each district—including a district quality coordinator, a Mandal Educational Officer, a school principal, and a primary school assistant teacher—were trained. Director of School Education E.V. Narasimha Reddy highlighted that this initiative was carried out under the directions of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. The program has already shown positive results, with students expressing curiosity and joy while learning Telugu and numerical concepts through AI tools. Teachers may also be sent abroad to study international learning models to further enhance the program.
Karnataka Government Denies Irregularities in ₹75 Crore Health Kit Procurement
The Karnataka State government has refuted allegations of irregularities in the procurement of health kits worth ₹75 crore aimed at addressing anaemia among construction workers. The kits, which cost ₹2,600 each, were supplied to approximately 12.39 lakh women workers. BJP member N. Ravi Kumar raised concerns, stating that the market cost of such kits should ideally be around ₹953 each. He accused the government of splitting the tender to benefit a single company and demanded an inquiry into the procurement process. Labour Minister Santosh Lad defended the process, stating that the procurement was carried out under the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act, and the lowest bidder was selected. He acknowledged that splitting tenders is a common practice but assured that any irregularities would be addressed. The decision to supply the kits followed a preventive health care drive conducted during 2023-2024, which revealed that 17% of women workers were anaemic.
Heritage (1)
Tagore Centenary Hall Demolished for Modern Multipurpose Complex in Kozhikode
The 51-year-old Tagore Centenary Hall, a prominent cultural landmark in Kozhikode, is being demolished to pave the way for a modern multipurpose complex. Constructed in 1966 to commemorate the birth centenary of Rabindranath Tagore and inaugurated in 1973, the hall has been a hub for theatre, cultural events, and occasional movie screenings. Over the years, structural issues necessitated multiple repairs, but the problems persisted, leading to the decision for reconstruction. The Kozhikode Corporation has secured administrative approval for the ₹67.75-crore project, with construction set to begin in three months. The new three-storey complex will feature a 2,000-seat convention centre, a 150-seat mini hall, three multiplex cinema halls, a 500-seat dining hall, advanced audio-visual facilities, parking for 150 cars, an open amphitheatre, bookshops, a cultural street, and a jogging space. To fund the project, the Corporation plans to borrow ₹49 crore from the Kerala Urban and Rural Development Finance Corporation. The demolition is expected to be completed within three months.
Books (1)
G. Madhavan Nair Releases Book on Pournamikavu Temple's Unique Rituals
A book titled 'Pournamikavu Temple: Sacred Whispers of the Full Moon', published by The Hindu, was released at a function held at the Pournamikavu Temple on Friday. The book was unveiled by G. Madhavan Nair, former chairperson of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who received it from Sridhar Aranala, Vice-President of Sales and Distribution at The Hindu Group. During the event, Mr. Madhavan Nair emphasized the significance of preserving India's ancient temples, highlighting the cultural heritage of South India, particularly the contributions of the Ay, Chola, Chera, and Pandya rulers. The book delves into the unique rituals and worship ceremonies at the Pournamikavu Temple, which is open only on full moon days. It also explores the worship practices in Hinduism that emphasize the feminine principle as a core aspect of the divine. Additionally, the book documents the installation of the idols of Akshara Devathas at the temple, where each letter of the Malayalam alphabet is represented by a Goddess. The event was attended by members of the temple administration, including M. S. Bhuvanachandran, Pallikkal Sunil, and Suresh Kumar Pillai, General Manager and Head of Circulation at The Hindu (Kerala).
Comments
Post a Comment