India

New Delhi, Jan 15 (IANS) BJP candidate from Kalkaji Assembly constituency Ramesh Bidhuri on Wednesday filed his nomination for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections.

Accompanied by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Bidhuri launched a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing it of making "false promises" and neglecting development in the area.

Bidhuri will face a contest from AAP candidate and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, and Congress candidate Alka Lamba.

Speaking to IANS after filing his nomination, Bidhuri said, "The people of Kalkaji are happy that their days of living under AAP-da governance will end soon. People in Kalkaji were facing difficulties due to dirty roads, broken drainage systems, and heaps of garbage. Now, development work will finally take place."

Responding to AAP's claim that he is being projected as BJP's chief ministerial face, Bidhuri dismissed the notion, calling Arvind Kejriwal a "conspirator."

"Kejriwal has a history of making false claims. He swore on his children that he wouldn't align with Congress but later did the opposite. I am not in politics for any post; I am here to serve," he said.

Union Minister Puri also slammed Kejriwal, accusing him of misleading the public with unfulfilled promises.

"For ten years, Kejriwal has made false guarantees in Delhi. He promised to clean the Yamuna, improve health and education systems, and much more but failed to deliver. Look at the air quality, the state of roads, and the Yamuna, which has turned into a drain," Puri said.

He also referred to AAP's governance in Punjab, claiming the party failed to meet its commitments there.

Puri alleged corruption within the AAP leadership, citing RTI replies that revealed extravagant spending on official vehicles.

"The Delhi government spent Rs 1.5 crore on Kejriwal's cars and Rs 50 lakh on Manish Sisodia's cars. This highlights their personal corruption and low credibility," Puri added.

Atishi, the AAP candidate from Kalkaji, filed her nomination on Tuesday.

Several other BJP leaders, including Parvesh Verma (New Delhi constituency), Vijender Gupta (Rohini), Satish Upadhyay (Malviya Nagar), and Ajay Mahawar (Ghonda), also filed their nominations for the elections.

The elections, scheduled for February 5, are set to witness a high-stake battle between the AAP, BJP, and Congress, with results to be declared on February 8.

--IANS

sd/svn

Mumbai, Jan 15 (IANS) Adani Group shares rallied for the second consecutive day on Wednesday following a sharp surge in the previous trading session.

In the trading session so far, Adani Green Energy stock surged to 1,080 per share with a gain of 7.27 per cent and Adani Power rallied to Rs 571.90 per share with a gain of 6.50 per cent. At 1.00 p.m., Adani Green Energy and Adani Power were trading with a gain of 3.76 per cent and 2.94 per cent respectively.

Adani Green Energy's total traded volume so far in the day stood at 7.1 times its 30-day average, while the RSI was at 47.

Adani Power's total traded volume so far in the day stood at 13 times its 30-day average, while the RSI was at 57.

This week, Adani Green Energy's stock surged by about 16 per cent and Adani Power's stock advanced by about 20 per cent.

This rally in Adani Green Energy came after its subsidiary Adani Renewable Energy Forty-Eight Limited commissioned a 57.2 MW wind power unit at the Khavda project. With the commissioning of this plant, the company's total operational renewable energy generation capacity has increased to 11,666 MW.

Apart from this, the shares of other companies of the Adani Group are also trading with gains. Adani Energy Solutions shares rose by 1.63 per cent, Adani Ports shares surged by 0.60 per cent, Adani Enterprises shares advanced by 0.56 per cent, Ambuja Cements shares rose by 1.31 per cent and ACC shares surged by about half a per cent.

Adani Group shares also saw a rise on Tuesday. Adani Power shares soared by 19.77 per cent, Adani Green Energy shares zoomed by 13.22 per cent, Adani Energy Solutions shares advanced by 12.06 per cent, Adani Enterprises shares jumped by 7.12 per cent, Adani Total Gas shares rallied by 6.52 per cent and NDTV shares rose by 5.63 per cent.

--IANS

avs/dpb

New Delhi, Jan 15 (IANS) Ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, BJP leaders, including Vijender Gupta, Satish Upadhyay, Parvesh Verma and Ajay Mahawar intensified their election campaigns with rallies and roadshows before filing their nominations. The BJP's electoral momentum was marked by large rallies, with the party leadership expressing confidence in their chances of victory.

Vijender Gupta, the BJP candidate for Delhi's Rohini Assembly constituency, is set to file his nomination on Wednesday.

Before his nomination submission, he held a grand rally that saw a large turnout of party supporters. Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar was also present at the rally, extending his support to Gupta.

Meanwhile, BJP candidate Satish Upadhyay, who is contesting from the Malviya Nagar Assembly constituency, embarked on his journey to file his nomination. Before his submission, a massive rally was held in the Green Park area, drawing significant participation from party workers and supporters.

Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva, MP Bansuri Swaraj, and Virender Singh were also present at the event.

Satish Upadhyay expressed his gratitude and optimism during the rally, saying, "I am grateful that MP Bansuri Swaraj, my family, and my friends are all here in my support as I file my nomination today.

"Even amid this cold wave and dense fog, as you can see, people and my party workers are here in full force. This shows and assures that the lotus is blooming, and BJP is coming to Delhi."

Bansuri Swaraj, too, shared her support for Upadhyay, saying, "On February 5, press the lotus symbol and make Satish Upadhyay the winner. We assure you that we will change the fate of Malviya Nagar and work toward its development."

BJP candidate Dushyant Singh Gautam, contesting from Karol Bagh, also held a roadshow ahead of filing his nomination at the SDM office in Jhandewalan, Delhi. He was accompanied by Haryana Chief Minister Nawab Singh Saini during his rally ahead of nomination filing.

Manoj Tiwari, along with BJP candidate Ajay Mahawar, held a rally in Yamuna Vihar before Mahawar filed his nomination for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections.

Ajay Mahawar expressed confidence in the BJP’s success, saying, "This time, the BJP will win with a full majority, and we are receiving complete cooperation from the people."

Manoj Tiwari also shared his optimism about the party's prospects, saying, "We are filing nominations for approximately 38 seats, and now I am here with Ajay Mahawar, who is going to file his nomination. We performed a 'hawan' ceremony, seeking the blessings of the gods. This nomination will bring happiness to the people of Delhi, as the city has long been suppressed under corruption. This is the right time for change. In the Gonda constituency, all problems and issues will be addressed. We want the support and blessings of the people. Press the lotus button."

Tiwari also took a dig at former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, stating, "There is a wave in Delhi, and Arvind Kejriwal continues to lie, despite being ineligible to hold the position of Chief Minister. Delhi is watching all these lies. The people of Delhi will decide their fate, and a BJP's double-engine government will be formed."

BJP's Parvesh Verma, another candidate contesting from the New Delhi Assembly constituency, also held a roadshow before filing his nomination. Verma, accompanied by his supporters, showcased his strong presence in the constituency, signalling his preparedness for the electoral battle.

In Delhi, the election to the 70-member Assembly will be held on February 5 and the counting of votes on February 8.

--IANS

rs/rad

Chennai, Jan 15 (IANS) The Greater Chennai Traffic Police (GCTP) have announced detailed traffic arrangements for Thursday in anticipation of large crowds congregating on Kamarajar Salai for Kaanum Pongal celebrations.

The GCTP stated that normal traffic would be allowed on Kamarajar Salai as much as possible.

However, diversions will be implemented when vehicle flow increases.

Vehicles from the War Memorial to the Lighthouse will be allowed on Kamarajar Salai as usual while vehicles from the Lighthouse to the War Memorial will be diverted at Kannagi Statue to turn left towards Bharathi Salai, passing through Bells Road Junction and Victoria Hostel Road to reach their destinations.

Heavy and light commercial vehicles will not be permitted on Kamarajar Salai towards the Lighthouse from 1.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m.

Additionally, specific areas have been earmarked for the public visiting Marina Beach to park their vehicles.

It is to be noted that Kaanum Pongal, also known as Kanum Pongal or Kanni Pongal, is a significant festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu as part of the four-day Pongal festivities.

The festival emphasises strengthening family ties. Women pray for the well-being of their brothers, sons, husbands, and fathers.

The day holds particular importance for unmarried women, who pray to the Sun God for their brothers' welfare. Visiting brothers' homes is a customary practice. Women wear vibrant sarees, while men don dhotis, reflecting Tamil Nadu's cultural richness.

Traditional foods such as betel leaves, nuts, coloured rice, turmeric, and sugarcane are commonly consumed. Leftovers from sweet Pongal are also enjoyed.

One key ritual of the festival involves placing rice on a turmeric leaf. Women gather in courtyards to pray for their family's welfare, fostering unity among relatives.

Kaanum Pongal highlights Tamil Nadu's rich heritage through attire, food, and rituals. It promotes the importance of tradition in modern society, offering families an opportunity to relax and celebrate their achievements after the busy harvest season.

This festival serves as a reminder of the enduring strength of familial bonds and the cultural pride of Tamil Nadu.

--IANS

aal/svn

Dharwad (Karnataka), Jan 15 (IANS) The Karnataka High Court’s Dharwad Bench on Wednesday adjourned the hearing in the plea seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into a case related to the alleged irregularities in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) to January 27.

The Bench headed by Justice M. Nagaprasanna further directed the Lokayukta Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) to submit the investigation report one day prior to the date of the next hearing in the case to the court.

Senior counsel Maninder Singh submitted arguments for the petitioner Snehamayi Krishna and senior counsels Professor Ravivarma Kumar, Abhishek Manu Singhvi appeared for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Kapil Sibal and Advocate General K. Shashi Kiran Shetty represented the state government.

Senior Counsel Dushyant Dave had appeared for the fourth accused in the case, land owner Devaraju.

The Bench had directed the counsels to restrict their submissions to whether the matter needs to be handed over to the CBI or not.

The Bench also questioned the Karnataka Lokayukta as to why it has not submitted the investigation report so far.

The court directed the counsel representing the Lokayukta Venkatesh Arabatti to submit the report on findings of the investigation till date on January 16.

Counsel Maninder Singh submitted that the investigation needs to be unbiased and it should create trust among the people.

“An unbiased probe is difficult when politicians are involved in the case. An independent investigation is required. The police deputed by the state government are carrying out the investigation. Lokayukta police officers take charge on deputation and an impartial probe is not possible,” he said.

“The accused had got sites worth Rs 56 crore illegally. The CM’s wife has returned those sites hurriedly. The state government is resolved to protect the accused in the case. The government consented to accept the return of the sites in one day,” he submitted.

Counsel Maninder Singh further stated that the officers attached to the Urban Development Department had taken away 145 files and the Deputy SP of Mysuru Lokayukta had written a letter in this regard.

Counsel Prof. Kumar objected and stated that this argument was not related to the MUDA case.

The High Court Bench intervened and asked counsel Singh whether the submission was related to the MUDA case.

In turn, Singh submitted that the Lokayukta Deputy SP had not disclosed which files were taken away and files related to this case might also be there.

Counsel Kapil Sibal sought time to file objections to the writ petition.

Considering the request, the Bench adjourned the matter to January 27.

Petitioner Snehamayi Krishna had submitted a petition before the court demanding a probe by the CBI against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He had stated in his petition that he does not think that the Lokayukta can ensure a transparent probe and hence the CBI enquiry was being sought.

CM Siddaramaiah is facing an investigation by Lokayukta and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the case for allegedly getting 14 MUDA sites allotted to his family by violating all rules.

CM Siddaramaiah has filed a petition seeking quashing of proceedings against him in the MUDA case.

The Chief Minister was booked under Sections 120B, 166, 403, 406, 420, 426, 465, 468, 340, and 351 of the IPC.

Under Sections 9 and 13 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, Sections 3, 53 and 54 of the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act and Sections 3 and 4 of the Karnataka Land Grabbing Prohibition Act.

--IANS

mka/rad

Mumbai, Jan 15 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that India has emerged as the First Responder across the entire Indian Ocean Region and is recognised as a reliable and responsible partner globally, especially in the Global South.

“Today's India is emerging as a major maritime power in the world. India works in the spirit of development and not expansionism. It is one of the priorities of the country that the military capability of 21st century India should be more capable and modern,” he said after he dedicated three frontline naval combatants INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer to the nation after their commissioning at the Naval Dockyard.

"The commissioning of three frontline naval combatants underscores India's unwavering commitment to building a robust and self-reliant defence sector," he said.

The PM added that the commissioning of three naval combatants was a significant step towards empowering the Indian Navy of the 21st century, especially, when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj gave new strength and vision to the Navy.

The Prime Minister said that enhancing the nation's military capabilities to align with the demands of the 21st century remains a key priority for India. “Whether it is land, air, water, the deep sea, or outer space, India is steadfastly safeguarding its interests across all domains. To achieve this, continuous reforms are being implemented. The establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff was a significant step in this direction. Additionally, efforts are underway to strengthen our armed forces through the development of Theatre Commands,” he said.

He further added that the government has started its third term with many big decisions.

“We have made new policies at a fast pace, we have started new work keeping in mind the needs of the country, we are moving with the goal of development of every corner, every sector of the country,” he commented.

“It is for the first time that a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine -- all three -- are being commissioned together. Above all, these frontline platforms are Made in India products. Therefore, I would like to congratulate the Indian Navy, engineers, workers, and the entire country. 15 January is also celebrated as Army Day. I salute every brave soldier who dedicates his life to protecting the country. I congratulate every hero engaged in protecting Mother India,” said the Prime Minister.

“India is swiftly progressing towards becoming the world's third-largest economy. This growth will require a significant demand for containers and ships. As a result, the port-led development model will not only accelerate economic growth but also create substantial employment opportunities. The rise in employment in this sector can be observed through the increasing number of Indian seafarers,” said the Prime Minister.

In 2014, India had fewer than 1.25 lakh seafarers, but this number has now risen to approximately three lakh. Today, India proudly holds the 5th position globally in terms of the number of seafarers, he added. According to him, the construction of 60 ships for over Rs 1.50 lakh crore is currently underway.

--IANS

sj/dpb

Shimla, Jan 15 (IANS) Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Wednesday emphasised the importance of combating drug addiction through community efforts.

"Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, I initiated an anti-drug campaign in Himachal Pradesh a year ago. While progress has been gradual, the successful execution of this sports-based awareness programme reflects positive momentum," said the Governor while presiding over the concluding ceremony of the month-long 'Khel Khilao -- Nasha Bhagao' campaign organised by Arki Welfare Society in Arki in Solan district.

He stressed that such initiatives could only succeed if kept free from political influences.

Recognising the pivotal role of women in this movement, he called them the strongest force to lead the fight against drug addiction.

Reflecting on the rich legacy of the state as a land of valour, he expressed concern that drug addiction among the youth could compromise national security by weakening future generations.

The Governor urged the Panchayati Raj representatives to actively contribute to the cause, including seeking police support against drug abuse.

He emphasised the need for a collective approach, involving government efforts, societal awareness and cultural connection, to safeguard and enhance the rich traditions and values of the state.

The Governor expressed appreciation for this unique and impactful initiative that combines the power of sports with a strong message to combat the social evil of substance abuse.

He commended the Arki Welfare Society for their dedication to making the campaign a success.

He highlighted the importance of sports not just as a means to encourage athletic talents but also as an effective tool to steer the youth away from the menace of drugs.

Expressing concern, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu last week said Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act cases have risen by 340 per cent in one decade, escalating from approximately 500 cases in 2012 to 2,200 cases in 2023. Additionally, the percentage of cases involving heroin has doubled, rising from 29 per cent in 2020 to 50 per cent in 2024.

CM Sukhu was speaking virtually at the regional conference on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security' organised by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

He emphasised the state's commitment to combating the escalating drug crisis. He said there is a troubling trend towards synthetic drugs, which are not only more potent and addictive but also harder to control due to their chemical composition.

CM Sukhu emphasised the necessity of a comprehensive approach to tackling drug trafficking, particularly in interstate border areas, which have become hotspots for illicit activities.

--IANS

vg/svn

Kolkata, Jan 15 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has now started showing interest in the ongoing investigation by West Bengal Police and Kolkata Police against the rackets operating from the state and engaged in arranging fake Indian identity documents, including passports for the illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators.

Sources aware of the development said that ED had collected the details on the progress of the probe by the state and city police forces, including the arrests made by the sleuths so far in the matter.

Although ED officials here are tight-lipped on the exact reason for their interest in the case, sources said that in all possibility the Central agency officials have identified a money-laundering angle in the entire scam, especially the financial dealing made while arranging fake Indian documents for illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators.

However, sources added, the ED officials are just at the stage of collecting the necessary information on the matter and the Central agency is yet to file an enforcement case information report (ECIR) on the matter.

The sleuths of West Bengal and Kolkata Police forces have already arrested nine persons in connection with the fake passport rackets operating from the state and engaged in arranging fake Indian identity documents for illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators.

The last arrest made in this connection was Abdul Hai, a retired sub-inspector of Kolkata Police, who during the last few years of his service life was mainly engaged in the task of police verification for new passport applicants.

The investigating officials have identified a pattern in the operations of such rackets engaged in arranging fake Indian passports for the illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators.

Any infiltrator illegally crossing over to the Indian territory, contacting the local agents and showing willingness to pay out hefty amounts for getting fake Indian identity documents are first provided with safe shelters at the different villages adjacent to the borders with Bangladesh in the state, both land and coastal. Thereafter, the agents arrange for fake ration cards for them, which is the first step to making other identity documents. With these fake ration cards, other identification documents like EPIC, PAN, and Aadhaar cards are acquired. The last step is getting the fake passports on the basis of these other fake identity documents.

--IANS

src/dpb

Patna, Jan 15 (IANS) National Democratic Alliance (NDA) constituents on Wednesday claimed that there were no divisions among them and they stand united.

At the NDA joint workers conference in the Bagaha subdivision of West Champaran district, BJP Bihar President Dilip Jaiswal emphasised the unity among NDA allies.

Jaiswal stated, "Those who are dreaming of creating division will fail, as all alliance partners of the NDA stand united."

He further mentioned that representatives and workers from all NDA constituents, including the BJP, JD(U), HAM(S), LJP(RV), and HLM, were participating in the conference.

This marks a significant step in gearing up for the Assembly elections in 2025, with the alliance showcasing its solidarity and readiness to contest jointly.

In the first phase of the joint workers' conference, Jaiswal announced that the event, which began from Bagaha would proceed through Bettiah, Motihari, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Muzaffarpur, and other locations. A total of 10 districts are set to be covered from January 15 to January 22.

Highlighting the NDA's ambition, Jaiswal said, "When NDA goes to election, we target all 243 seats in Bihar to secure a comprehensive victory. This is a significant initiative by the NDA."

Neeraj Kumar, JD(U) MLC, strongly criticised opposition leaders for speculating divisions within the alliance.

"Some people in the opposition camp predicted they could create a rift in the NDA. I want to say they made a wrong prediction. There is no JD(U), BJP, HAMS, LJPRV, or RLM here - we are the NDA, not individual parties," Kumar said.

The NDA has also outlined the schedule for the second phase of its joint workers' conference in the state, which will begin on January 27 in Bhojpur and conclude on February 1 in Gaya.

During this phase, the conference will cover key districts such as Buxar, Kaimur, Rohtas, and Aurangabad. As part of the initiative, the NDA has invited district presidents, block presidents, Panchayat presidents, and local MLAs and MLCs to actively participate in the events.

This outreach aims to strengthen coordination and preparation at all levels of the alliance's leadership as it builds momentum for the 2025 Assembly elections.

--IANS

ajk/svn

New Delhi, Jan 15 (IANS) Ahead of filing his nomination for the New Delhi Assembly constituency, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal visited the Maharishi Valmiki Temple and Pracheen Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place on Wednesday and said that as long as God is with him, no one can harm him.

Kejriwal, accompanied by his family, sought divine blessings before heading to file his nomination.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the temples, Kejriwal said, "From here, we will go to the party office, and then we will proceed together to file my nomination."

He added that many "mothers and sisters" from across Delhi would accompany him to the election office to bless him.

When asked about intelligence inputs suggesting a threat to his life, Kejriwal expressed faith, saying, "As long as God is with me, no one can harm me".

He was joined by his wife, son, daughter, and sister during the temple visits.

The BJP has fielded Parvesh Verma as its candidate from the New Delhi constituency, while Congress has nominated Sandeep Dikshit. The election to the 70-member Assembly is scheduled for February 5, with counting on February 8.

Meanwhile, controversy surrounds Kejriwal as the Centre has granted the Enforcement Directorate (ED) permission to prosecute him under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in connection with the excise policy case.

The Union Home Ministry's approval follows Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena's earlier nod for prosecution.

Kejriwal and AAP have been accused of accepting bribes from the "South Group," a cartel allegedly controlling liquor sales and benefiting from the Delhi government's 2021-22 excise policy. While out on bail, Kejriwal has denied the allegations, accusing the BJP of weaponising central agencies to target political opponents.

The high-stakes election campaign has seen AAP, BJP, and Congress engaged in a fierce triangular battle, trading accusations of corruption and misgovernance.

In addition to the excise policy allegations, Kejriwal has been criticised for purportedly extravagant expenditures on his official residence during his tenure as Chief Minister, with the "Sheesh Mahal" controversy emerging as a key election issue.

As the February 5 election approaches, the political temperature continues to rise in the national capital, with all three parties making corruption and governance their central campaign themes.

--IANS

sd/dpb