Author: Soham Kachdiya

Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, faced obstruction from Khalistani extremists when attempting to visit a gurdwara in Scotland. The incident has taken place amidst escalating tensions between Canada and India, triggered by allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

In a purported video circulating on social media, a pro-Khalistan activist can be seen blocking Mr. Doraiswami from entering the Glasgow Gurdwara on Albert Drive. Two individuals near the High Commissioner’s car in the parking area can be seen in the video, with one attempting to open the locked car door from the inside. Subsequently, the High Commissioner’s vehicle left the gurdwara premises.

The Indian High Commissioner had been invited by the gurdwara’s managing committee, and a longer version of the video also reveals Khalistani extremists issuing threats to the gurdwara’s staff.

At present, there has been no immediate reaction from the Indian government. Sources indicate that a police complaint has been filed due to the security implications for the High Commissioner.

The dispute initially flared when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that “Indian government agents” were implicated in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India swiftly rejected Trudeau’s claims as “absurd” and demanded evidence to substantiate the allegations.

Despite Trudeau providing no concrete evidence, reports suggest that this information had been shared within an intelligence alliance involving the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. In response, India accused Canada of harboring terrorists on its soil.

Tensions between the two nations had been brewing since Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concerns to Trudeau regarding the rising secessionist activities in Canada during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Delhi. In 2018, India had reportedly presented a list of nine Khalistani operatives to the Canadian government.

News Summary:

• Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami was obstructed by Khalistani extremists while attempting to visit a gurdwara in Scotland, as shown in a viral video.
• The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions between Canada and India, triggered by allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
• The Indian government has not yet responded officially, but sources indicate that a police complaint has been filed regarding the security of the High Commissioner.
• Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations of “Indian government agents” involvement in the killing were swiftly rejected by India, which demanded evidence.
• Reports suggest that the allegation was shared within an intelligence alliance involving the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand, with India accusing Canada of providing safe haven to terrorists.
• Tensions between the two countries had been escalating since 2018 when India presented Canada with a list of nine Khalistani operatives during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Justin Trudeau.

India observes Gandhi Jayanti on October 2nd each year to commemorate the 154th birth anniversary of Mohandas Mahatma Gandhi, a revered figure known for his pivotal role in the country’s struggle for freedom from British colonial rule. Mahatma Gandhi, affectionately called Bapu or the Father of the Nation, left an indelible legacy of truth, non-violence, and social change.

Historical Tribute: Gandhi Jayanti, held on October 2nd, marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, born in 1869. He was a political ethicist, nationalist, and lawyer who dedicated his life to India’s fight for independence. His profound influence on civil rights movements in India was attributed to his unwavering commitment to non-violence and his ability to win hearts with love and tolerance. Tragically, Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse for his unwavering principles.

Significance: October 2nd is a national holiday in India, honoring Mahatma Gandhi and paying tribute to his contributions as a freedom fighter. In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly designated this day as the International Day of Non-Violence to uphold Gandhi’s principles. It serves as a global reminder of the significance of non-violence in fostering peace, harmony, and unity.

Celebrations: Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated nationwide, from educational institutions to government and non-government offices. The day traditionally begins with the rendition of Gandhi’s favorite hymn, ‘Raghupati Raghava.’ Memorial services are organized, providing a platform for people to reflect on Mahatma’s teachings. The celebrations encompass cultural activities, patriotic songs, dances, and speeches that emphasize Gandhi’s principles of truth and non-violence.

This day is a poignant reminder of Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring legacy, his message of non-violence, and his vital role in India’s journey to independence. As the nation observes Gandhi Jayanti, it serves as a collective call to continue his work in promoting peace, harmony, and unity both within India and across the world.

News Summary:

• India commemorates the 154th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti, observed on October 2nd each year.
• Mahatma Gandhi, known as the Father of the Nation, played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for freedom through his principles of truth and non-violence.
• The United Nations has designated October 2nd as the International Day of Non-Violence to honor Gandhi’s legacy and promote non-violence for global peace.
• Celebrations across India include hymns, memorial services, cultural activities, and speeches highlighting Gandhi’s teachings.

Afghan diplomats appointed by the previous Afghan government have notified Indian authorities of their intention to shutter the embassy in New Delhi. The decision comes as a result of what they perceive as a lack of “diplomatic consideration and systemic support.” This development has raised concerns over the future of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The Afghan diplomats conveyed their decision to India’s external affairs ministry through a note verbale, a form of unsigned diplomatic communication, on September 25. In the document, they cited the absence of support in response to “legitimate requests” from the embassy over the past six months.

Key Highlights:

• Silent Indian Response: As of now, Indian officials have not issued an immediate response to the Afghan embassy’s decision to cease operations by the end of September 2023.
• Diplomatic Absences: The Afghan ambassador appointed by the Ashraf Ghani government, Farid Mamundzay, has been absent from India for several months. Additionally, there has been a gradual departure of Afghan diplomats to third countries after receiving asylum. Reports also suggest internal conflicts among embassy personnel.
• Political Intrigue: The closure of the Afghan embassy coincides with efforts by individuals in New Delhi reportedly aligned with the Taliban in Kabul to take control of the mission. Such efforts have been observed in recent days.
• Taliban Influence: Senior Taliban figures on social media platforms have indicated that Afghan consulate heads in Mumbai and Hyderabad, appointed by the previous Ghani government, are now collaborating with the Taliban administration in Kabul.
• Diminished Significance: The note verbale from the Afghan diplomats noted that the embassy’s importance had been “systematically diminished” since the reopening of the Indian embassy in Kabul in June 2022. It highlighted a lack of action and limited support regarding education initiatives, consular services, and assistance for Afghan traders.
• Challenges Faced: Afghan diplomats pointed out an increasingly untenable situation due to threats to their families in Afghanistan by the Taliban and perceived lack of support from India.

The note verbale also called on the Indian side to take “custodial responsibility of the Afghan diplomatic mission properties” in New Delhi and Mumbai, as well as financial accounts, including the Indian Afghanistan Fund. The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, Article 45, stipulates the protection of mission premises in the event of diplomatic personnel recall.

Furthermore, the Afghan diplomats requested exit permits from the Indian external affairs ministry for the remaining Afghan diplomats and their families, believed to number fewer than five, to depart India.

India has not officially recognized the Taliban regime and has advocated for an inclusive government in Kabul and the protection of the rights of women, children, and minorities. However, New Delhi has discreetly engaged with key Taliban leaders to safeguard its security interests.

In a global context, several former Afghan diplomats have closed embassies in most world capitals, with missions in select countries, including Pakistan and China, being handed over to Taliban representatives.

News Summary: Afghan diplomats have notified Indian authorities of their intention to close the Afghan embassy in New Delhi due to a perceived lack of diplomatic support. The decision comes amid prolonged absences of Afghan officials and increasing asylum-seeking departures. It also coincides with reported attempts by individuals in New Delhi with ties to the Taliban in Kabul to assume control of the embassy. The closure raises questions about the future of diplomatic relations between India and Afghanistan, as well as the fate of Afghan mission properties in India.

A live television debate on a prominent Pakistani news channel turned chaotic as political leaders from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) engaged in a physical altercation during a heated exchange. The incident unfolded on the ‘Kal Tak’ show hosted by renowned presenter Javed Chaudhary on Express TV.

[City], [Date] – A live television debate on a prominent Pakistani news channel turned chaotic as political leaders from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) engaged in a physical altercation during a heated exchange. The incident unfolded on the ‘Kal Tak’ show hosted by renowned presenter Javed Chaudhary on Express TV.

The confrontation took place between Imran Khan’s attorney, Sher Afzal Khan Marwat of PTI, and PML-N senator Afnan Ullah Khan. The dispute escalated after a series of sharp verbal exchanges, with both leaders resorting to derogatory language.

The PML-N senator accused PTI chairman Imran Khan of secret negotiations with military officials and various wrongdoings, further intensifying the tension. The exchange then took a personal turn, with the leaders involving each other’s families.

In a widely circulated video, PTI’s Marwat abruptly rose and struck Senator Afnan’s head unexpectedly. In response, the senator physically confronted Marwat, engaging in kicking and slapping, and they were only separated by crew members who rushed to intervene.

Hours after the altercation, Senator Afnan shared his perspective, stating, “Marwat attacked me in the talk show yesterday. I believe in non-violence, but I am Nawaz Sharif’s soldier. The incident is an important lesson for all PTI members, especially for Imran Khan.”

Meanwhile, PTI leader Marwat criticized Express TV, demanding transparency. He said, “If Express TV and Javed Chaudhry want a real public verdict on the fight that took place, justice demands that nothing be hidden. Express TV has a recording of the discussion that led to the fight. Why is that recording not being shared with the public? If Javed Chaudhry kindly shares the entire clip, everything will be clear.”

The incident has sparked controversy and raised questions about the conduct of political leaders on live television. It has also drawn attention to the role of media in moderating such debates.

News Summary:

• A live TV debate in Pakistan turned violent as leaders from the PML-N and PTI engaged in a physical altercation during a heated discussion on the ‘Kal Tak’ show on Express TV.
• The dispute escalated after accusations were made against PTI chairman Imran Khan, leading to derogatory language and personal attacks.
• In a widely circulated video, PTI’s Marwat struck Senator Afnan’s head, leading to a physical confrontation before crew members intervened.
• Senator Afnan claimed to be “Nawaz Sharif’s soldier,” while PTI’s Marwat demanded transparency from Express TV regarding the incident.

In a remarkable medical case, a 40-year-old man named Kuldeep Singh was subjected to a three-hour-long surgery at Medicity Hospital in Punjab’s Moga to remove a bizarre assortment of objects from his stomach. The unusual procedure, conducted after Singh complained of high fever, stomach ache, and nausea, left both medical professionals and Singh’s family baffled.

The Discovery: Kuldeep Singh was admitted to Medicity Hospital when his persistent stomach discomfort and fever became unbearable. The medical team conducted an X-ray scan to identify the source of his ailments, which revealed an astonishing sight – a multitude of metallic objects lodged inside his stomach. Among the unexpected items discovered were lockets, chains, nuts, bolts, earphones, screws, rakhis, safety pins, shirt buttons, and zips.

The Surgery: Dr. Ajmer Singh Kalra, the Director of Moga Medicity Hospital, described this case as an unprecedented event in their medical careers. Following the shocking X-ray results, a team of skilled surgeons decided to operate on Singh. The three-hour-long surgery was an intricate process that aimed to safely remove all the objects from his stomach. The successful procedure raised concerns about Singh’s health due to the prolonged presence of these items.

The Patient’s Condition: Singh’s family members expressed their astonishment and concern over how he managed to ingest such a variety of objects. They revealed that he had been suffering from stomach pain for two years, accompanied by mental distress. His worsening condition and inability to sleep prompted them to seek medical attention.

Medical Evaluation: Dr. Kalra emphasized the importance of seeking prompt medical care for unexplained symptoms, as Singh’s case underscores the potential risks of delaying treatment. Singh’s recovery remains uncertain due to the extended duration of the foreign objects’ presence in his stomach.

In Summary:

• Kuldeep Singh, a 40-year-old man from Punjab, underwent a three-hour surgery to remove various metallic objects from his stomach.
• Singh had complained of high fever, stomach ache, and nausea, leading to an X-ray that revealed the shocking discovery.
• The surgery successfully removed the objects, including lockets, chains, nuts, bolts, earphones, screws, rakhis, safety pins, shirt buttons, and zips.
• Singh’s family was puzzled by how he ingested such items and disclosed his two-year history of stomach pain and mental distress.
• Dr. Ajmer Singh Kalra stressed the importance of seeking timely medical attention for unexplained symptoms, but Singh’s condition remains uncertain due to the prolonged presence of foreign objects.

In a sternly worded verdict, the Calcutta High Court has taken a decisive step in the ongoing West Bengal recruitment scam case. The court has directed West Bengal Law Minister Moloy Ghatak to promptly facilitate the pending transfer of Alipore, amidst mounting allegations of irregularities.

The development comes as a significant twist in the case, which has been under the spotlight for months. The Calcutta High Court has been closely monitoring the investigation into the alleged recruitment scam, and this latest decision sends a clear message about the court’s commitment to impartiality and transparency.

Key Points:

• The Calcutta High Court has issued a scathing verdict related to the West Bengal recruitment scam case, ordering the immediate transfer of Alipore.
• West Bengal Law Minister Moloy Ghatak has been directed to expedite the transfer process.
• The decision comes amid growing concerns over irregularities in the case, which has garnered significant public attention.
• The Calcutta High Court’s stance underscores its commitment to impartiality and transparency in the ongoing investigation.

The Calcutta High Court has been at the forefront of the investigation into the West Bengal recruitment scam, striving to ensure that justice is served. The court’s order to transfer Alipore signals its determination to maintain the integrity of the proceedings.

In response to the verdict, legal experts are divided, with some applauding the court’s assertiveness and others calling for restraint. The case has been a focal point of political discourse in West Bengal, further heightening its significance.

Moloy Ghatak, West Bengal’s Law Minister, expressed his commitment to adhering to the court’s orders. He stated, “We respect the judiciary, and we will act in accordance with the court’s directives to ensure a fair and just resolution in this case.”

The Calcutta High Court’s decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for the recruitment scam case, potentially leading to a breakthrough in the investigation. As the legal proceedings unfold, all eyes will remain on Alipore and the actions of West Bengal’s Law Minister, Moloy Ghatak, as they navigate through this critical phase.

Summary:

• Calcutta High Court orders the immediate transfer of Alipore in the West Bengal recruitment scam case.
• West Bengal Law Minister Moloy Ghatak directed to expedite the transfer process.
• The court’s assertive stance emphasizes its commitment to impartiality and transparency.
• The decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for the ongoing investigation.

In a heart-wrenching incident that unfolded on Thursday afternoon, a 16-year-old boy, identified as Hasan Yusuf Shaikh, lost his life after being struck by lightning while he stood alone on Mumbai’s Juhu Chowpatty beach. The tragic incident occurred during the final day of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival when heavy rains swept across the city.

A preliminary investigation conducted by authorities suggests that young Shaikh had ventured to the popular Juhu beach to witness the Ganpati immersion, a quintessential part of the festival’s celebrations. However, he had arrived without any companions or a Ganpati idol in tow, choosing to enjoy the spectacle by himself.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Mahesh Mugutrao shared insights into the incident, stating, “Prima facie it appears that he had come alone to see the Ganesh idol immersion at the chowpatty. There was no Ganpati with him, nor was he accompanying any pandal. While he stood near the water at the beach, he got struck by lightning and fell into the water.”

Eyewitnesses report that heavy rainfall was pouring down when the lightning struck, tragically claiming Shaikh’s life. His lifeless body was discovered in the sea and immediately transported to Cooper Hospital via ambulance. Regrettably, he was declared brought dead upon arrival at the civic-run hospital.

Initially, it was presumed that the teenager had succumbed to drowning. However, further investigation revealed the true cause of his demise: a lightning strike. A vigilant lifeguard stationed 300 meters away from the tragic scene had observed the incident as it unfolded.

The lifeguard’s statement has been officially recorded, and the authorities have registered a case of accidental death. Efforts to contact Shaikh’s parents have been successful, and they have been informed of this devastating incident.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of natural disasters and the importance of safety measures, especially during inclement weather conditions.

News Summary:

• A 16-year-old boy, Hasan Yusuf Shaikh, lost his life after being struck by lightning at Mumbai’s Juhu Chowpatty during Ganesh Chaturthi festivities.
• Shaikh had ventured to the beach alone to witness the Ganpati immersion and was standing near the water when he was struck by lightning during heavy rainfall.
• Initially thought to have drowned, it was later discovered that the teenager had been struck by lightning, with an eyewitness account from a lifeguard confirming the incident.
• A case of accidental death has been registered, and authorities have informed Shaikh’s parents about the tragic incident.

The Gurugram district administration, under the authority of Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav, has issued an order imposing a comprehensive ban on the production, sale, and storage of all types of firecrackers. The ban is set to be effective from November 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024, with the exception of green firecrackers. This move comes as a response to concerns regarding air and noise pollution as well as solid waste issues associated with firecrackers.

Detailed Article:

In a significant development, the Gurugram district administration has taken a proactive step to address environmental concerns by imposing a ban on firecrackers, except green ones, during the upcoming festive season. The ban, effective from November 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024, aims to curb air and noise pollution, as well as solid waste problems linked to the use of firecrackers.

The decision to implement this ban was made under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and also takes into account the Explosive Act of 1884 and the Explosive Rules. It specifically targets joined firecrackers, with the exception of green crackers, and prohibits the use of barium salts in fireworks.

During festivals such as Diwali, Gurpurab, New Year’s Eve, and Christmas, residents will have a limited window to burst firecrackers. For Diwali and Gurpurab, the allowed time is from 8 pm to 10 pm, while on Christmas and New Year’s Eve, it is from 11.55 pm to 12.30 am.

Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav, who issued the order, emphasized the importance of this move, stating, “I prohibit the manufacture, sale, bursting, and use of joined firecrackers, except for green crackers, and ban the use of barium salts in fireworks in Gurugram district, as it causes air and noise pollution and solid waste problems.” This decision aligns with the district’s commitment to creating a cleaner and safer environment.

In 2018, the Supreme Court had ruled against a complete ban on firecrackers but allowed the sale of less polluting green crackers through licensed traders. The recent ban in Gurugram specifically targets joined firecrackers, except for green crackers, and the use of barium salts in fireworks.

To ensure compliance with the ban and to monitor air quality, Deputy Commissioner Yadav has directed the regional officer of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board to report data to respective websites, as per directives from the Supreme Court and Central Pollution Control Board.

Notably, e-commerce giants Flipkart and Amazon have been instructed not to accept online orders for firecrackers under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. Additionally, efforts are underway to raise awareness about green crackers and help the public distinguish them from conventional ones.

The responsibility for enforcing the ban has been entrusted to Gurugram Police, Municipal Corporation Gurugram, and Municipal Corporation Manesar. The order emphasizes collaboration among various authorities to ensure strict implementation.

This decision reflects the district administration’s commitment to environmental conservation and public health. By limiting firecracker use, they aim to reduce pollution levels during the festive season, promoting a cleaner and safer environment for all residents.

News Summary:

• Gurugram district administration has imposed a ban on the production, sale, and storage of firecrackers from November 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024, with exceptions for green firecrackers during festive occasions.
• The ban targets joined firecrackers and the use of barium salts in fireworks to address air and noise pollution as well as solid waste problems.
• Specific time windows for bursting firecrackers have been allocated during festivals like Diwali, Gurpurab, New Year’s Eve, and Christmas.
• The move aligns with the district’s commitment to environmental conservation and public health, with e-commerce platforms instructed not to accept online orders for firecrackers. Authorities will collaborate to ensure strict enforcement of the ban.

A horrifying building collapse near Kalindi Park in Lucknow has left a two-month-old girl and a man dead while injuring 14 laborers. The incident occurred around midnight on Thursday, as the floor of an under-construction building’s basement gave way, burying the occupants in their sleep, according to local authorities.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Sayed Ali Abbas described the tragic event, stating, “Some laborers who worked at the site used to live in shanties in the basement. As the floor collapsed, the laborers were buried under the rubble in their sleep.”

Immediately following the disaster, a swift response from local police teams and residents commenced a search for survivors. However, the outcome was grim. Mukadam, a 30-year-old laborer, and a two-month-old infant named Aishya lost their lives in the collapse.

The 14 other injured laborers were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention, where they are currently receiving treatment.

This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by laborers and the critical importance of ensuring safe working and living conditions at construction sites across the country.

News Summary:

• A building collapse near Kalindi Park in Lucknow has claimed two lives, including that of a two-month-old girl, and left 14 laborers injured.
• The incident occurred when the floor of an under-construction building’s basement collapsed, burying the occupants as they slept.
• Local authorities initiated a search for survivors immediately, but tragically, two individuals lost their lives in the accident.
• The injured laborers have been transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
• This incident underscores the necessity of maintaining safe conditions at construction sites to protect the lives of laborers.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami‘s visit to the United Kingdom for the Global Investors Summit in London has yielded significant economic gains for the Indian state. During his stay, Dhami and his delegation engaged in a series of fruitful meetings with global investors, resulting in the signing of Investment Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹3,000 crores with two prominent companies.

On the third day of his visit, the Uttarakhand government, under Dhami’s leadership, formalized these deals, which promise to drive economic growth and job creation within the state.

Investment Highlights:

1. Agar Technology Commits ₹2,000 Crores for Lithium Battery Plants: The state government signed a landmark agreement worth ₹2,000 crores with Agar Technology. This investment will fuel the establishment of lithium battery plants in Uttarakhand, a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions.
2. ₹1,000 Crore MoU with Fira Barcelona: Uttarakhand secured another valuable agreement, amounting to ₹1,000 crores, with Fira Barcelona, a renowned European entity specializing in convention center management and business fair organization. This partnership is expected to enhance Uttarakhand’s stature as a business and trade hub.
3. EaseMyTrip Partnership: Additionally, two MoUs were signed with EaseMyTrip, reflecting the commitment to boost tourism and employment opportunities in the state. EaseMyTrip will establish a state-backed Online Travel Aggregator (OTA) and promote Uttarakhand as a global tourism destination.

CM Dhami’s Vision:

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We have made more than 27 new policies.” He went on to confirm that MoUs worth ₹9,000 crores have already been signed, with the expectation of more to come in the following days.

Positive Outlook:

These agreements hold great promise for Uttarakhand’s economic growth and development. With the infusion of substantial investments, the state is poised for significant advancements in technology, tourism, and sustainable energy.

Quotes:

CM Dhami said, “We have made more than 27 new policies.” He added, “So far, MoUs worth ₹9,000 crores have been signed. It is expected that some more MoUs will be signed tomorrow.”

Key Attendees:

The meetings held in London were attended by dignitaries and officials, including Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dr. R. Meenakshi Sundaram; Director-General of Industries, Rohit Meena; and various other members of the official delegation along with investors.

News Summary:

• Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s UK visit for the Global Investors Summit in London culminated in the signing of ₹3,000 crore worth of Investment MoUs.
• Agar Technology committed ₹2,000 crores to establish lithium battery plants, while Fira Barcelona signed an MoU of ₹1,000 crores for convention center management and business fairs in Uttarakhand.
• Additional MoUs were inked with EaseMyTrip to promote Uttarakhand as a global tourism destination.
• CM Dhami announced that so far, MoUs worth ₹9,000 crores have been signed, reflecting the state’s growing economic prospects.
• Dignitaries and officials attended the meetings, affirming the state’s commitment to attracting investments and fostering economic growth.