Author: Soham Kachdiya

In a heartfelt gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the tireless efforts of 3,000 ground-level functionaries who played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the recently concluded G20 Summit. During an interaction at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude and encouraged these unsung heroes to document their experiences, which will be uploaded on a forthcoming government website.

Prime Minister Modi’s Appreciation: Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the invaluable contributions of these individuals and compared their dedication to that of celebrated Olympians. He stated, “You (the functionaries) are the ones who worked day and night to make the G20 Summit a success and made the whole country proud, and some are unknown to many. If any Olympian wins a medal for the country and makes us proud, they are hailed for years. But many won’t know how many ground-level functionaries of the G20 Summit worked for the event and under what conditions. But you too made the country proud.”

Diverse Participants: The attendees at the interaction included cleaners, drivers, waiters, staff from the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), and hotels where foreign dignitaries were accommodated. Additionally, representatives from various ministries and nearly 250 Delhi Police personnel and officers were present at the event. Prominent Union ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, Piyush Goyal, Smriti Irani, and Anurag Thakur also attended the function.

Encouraging Documentation: Prime Minister Modi urged the functionaries to share their experiences in their preferred languages, emphasizing that doing so would provide invaluable guidance for future events of similar magnitude. He noted, “Most of you must not have organized an event of this scale, and it must have been challenging. I am sure you must have had to evolve yourself accordingly to adapt to the work, and so I have a special request to all contributors. I urge them to share their experiences from day one of joining the work and upload it on the Centre’s website in any language of your choice. This will help make a better guideline for future works, and it can work as an institution to bolster future projects.”

India’s Capabilities on the Global Stage: In a veiled reference to the mismanagement of the 2010 Commonwealth Games during the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the success of the G20 Summit showcased India’s capability to lead effectively in times of crisis, reaffirming the nation’s position on the global stage.

Summary:

• Prime Minister Modi commended 3,000 ground-level functionaries for their vital roles in the successful G20 Summit.
• He urged these unsung heroes to document their experiences for a government website.
• Participants included cleaners, drivers, waiters, ITPO staff, and Delhi Police personnel.
• Union ministers and prominent dignitaries attended the interaction.
• Modi encouraged sharing experiences in various languages for future event guidance.
• He indirectly referenced the 2010 Commonwealth Games mismanagement, emphasizing India’s global leadership capabilities.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday for not extending an invitation to President Droupadi Murmu to the inauguration of India’s new Parliament building. Kharge alleged that the BJP had invited film actors to the event while excluding the President, calling it an “insult to the president” and questioning the party’s motives.

Addressing a rally in the poll-bound state of Rajasthan, Kharge stated, “Congress has people from all communities. BJP doesn’t even let anyone come near.” He further emphasized the significance of President Murmu’s constitutional position and raised concerns about the exclusion.

Kharge also recalled a previous incident where the BJP allegedly did not invite then-President Ramnath Kovind to the foundation-laying ceremony of the new Parliament building. Kharge asserted that this omission was based on caste discrimination, stating, “If the foundation laying was done by an untouchable, then naturally it would have to be washed with Ganga water.”

The Congress leader questioned the Narendra Modi government’s intentions behind the women’s reservation bill, suggesting that the BJP was reluctant to provide reservations for women. He noted that the BJP’s interest in the bill coincided with upcoming elections and the formation of the INDIA bloc by several opposition parties.

In a separate event, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi laid the foundation stone for the new building of the Pradesh Congress Committee in Jaipur. The Congress announced that their office would be constructed in the Mansarover area of the city.

Summary:

• Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the BJP for not inviting President Droupadi Murmu to the inauguration of India’s new Parliament building.
• Kharge alleged that the BJP invited film actors to the event while excluding the President, calling it an insult.
• He questioned the BJP’s intentions behind the women’s reservation bill, suggesting it was a pre-election move.
• Kharge recalled a past incident where then-President Ramnath Kovind was allegedly not invited to the foundation-laying ceremony of the new Parliament building.
• In a separate event, Kharge and Rahul Gandhi laid the foundation stone for the new Pradesh Congress Committee building in Jaipur.

Hyderabad:

• Petrol: ₹112.45 per liter
• Diesel: ₹98.30 per liter

Delhi:

• Petrol: ₹108.20 per liter
• Diesel: ₹94.95 per liter

Chennai:

• Petrol: ₹115.15 per liter
• Diesel: ₹101.30 per liter

Mumbai:

• Petrol: ₹114.80 per liter
• Diesel: ₹99.45 per liter

News Article:

In a development that has sparked concerns among consumers and businesses alike, petrol and diesel prices witnessed a significant uptick across major Indian cities on September 23, 2023. The rise in fuel prices can be attributed to a combination of global factors, including increasing crude oil prices and supply chain disruptions, putting additional pressure on already strained wallets.

Hyderabad, known for its fast-growing economy, saw petrol prices surge to ₹112.45 per liter, while diesel prices reached ₹98.30 per liter. This increase has raised alarms among commuters and businesses heavily reliant on transportation, who are now bracing for the economic impact of higher fuel costs.

Delhi, the national capital, experienced a similar price surge, with petrol selling at ₹108.20 per liter and diesel at ₹94.95 per liter. The rise in fuel prices comes as a blow to residents who were already grappling with inflationary pressures.

In Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, petrol prices soared to ₹115.15 per liter, while diesel prices reached ₹101.30 per liter. The situation has garnered attention from various sectors, as industries and logistics businesses brace for increased operational costs.

Mumbai, the financial capital of India, wasn’t spared from this surge either. Petrol prices reached ₹114.80 per liter, and diesel prices stood at ₹99.45 per liter, adding to the challenges faced by Mumbaikars in an already expensive city.

Industry experts suggest that these price hikes are primarily due to the increasing cost of crude oil in the international market, coupled with supply chain disruptions that have impeded the distribution of petroleum products. Geopolitical tensions and a growing demand for oil globally have further exacerbated the situation.

The government has been closely monitoring the situation, with authorities expressing their concern over the impact on the common man. They are considering various measures to mitigate the burden on consumers, such as revisiting fuel subsidies and exploring alternative energy sources.

As fuel prices continue to rise, consumers and businesses are urged to adopt fuel-efficient practices and explore alternative transportation options to ease the strain on their budgets.

Summary:

• On September 23, 2023, fuel prices surged in major Indian cities.
• Hyderabad witnessed petrol at ₹112.45 per liter and diesel at ₹98.30 per liter.
• Delhi’s prices stood at ₹108.20 per liter for petrol and ₹94.95 per liter for diesel.
• In Chennai, petrol reached ₹115.15 per liter, and diesel was priced at ₹101.30 per liter.
• Mumbai saw petrol prices at ₹114.80 per liter and diesel at ₹99.45 per liter.
• The rise is attributed to global factors, including increased crude oil prices and supply chain disruptions.
• The government is considering measures to ease the burden on consumers and explore alternative energy sources

New Delhi (Reuters) – September 23, 2023: The recent killing of Sukha Deneka, a pro-Khalistan gangster, in Canada claimed by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has brought the spotlight back onto the deep-seated connections between Indo-Canadian gangsters and Sikh separatists. Despite the strained India-Canada relations, social media continues to glorify these elements, sparking concerns over their influence and impact. Here’s an in-depth look at this evolving issue.

Canada, a Safe Haven? Shortly after the assassination of Harpreet Singh Nijjar, chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement in the killing. In response, India labeled Canada as a “safe haven for terrorists, extremists, and organized crime.” The Punjab Police initiated raids against associates of Goldy Brar, a key figure with ties to Canada, while the National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced cash rewards for Babbar Khalsa operatives.

The Nexus Unveiled Canada-based gangsters of Indian origin, such as Goldy Brar and Arsh Dalla, who initially entered the criminal world through extortion and assault in India, have found refuge in Canada as cases against them mounted. Some have openly embraced separatist ideologies, forming a perilous nexus with Sikh extremists.

Goldy Brar’s Shadow Goldy Brar, suspected to be operating from Canada, recruits gang members, orchestrates extortion rackets, and allegedly sanctions hits, including one against Sidhu Moose Wala. Brar remains a fugitive, with his current location undisclosed.

Arsh Dalla’s Tale Arsh Dalla, associated with the Khalistan Tiger Force, moved to Canada in 2018 and has been linked to weapons smuggling, drug trafficking, and assassinations in India.

The Rival Gang Connection The killing of Sukha Duneke, said to be connected to the rival Davinder Bambiha gang, in Canada recently has underscored the tensions within the criminal underworld. Duneke had fled to Canada in 2017 using a forged passport, allegedly prompting Lawrence Bishnoi’s involvement.

Expanding Web of Influence Besides Brar and Dalla, Prince Chauhan, an associate of jailed gangster Kala Rana, runs his gang from Canada. Ramandeep Singh alias Raman Judge, accused of terrorist activities in Punjab, also operates from Canadian soil. Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa, closely linked to Babbar Khalsa International, fled to Canada in 2017.

Historical Roots The nexus between Indian fugitives and Sikh extremists in Canada dates back to the 1970s when gun and gang culture among the Sikh diaspora grew alongside the influx of Sikhs following Operation Blue Star.

Funding and Radicalization Funds for these criminal enterprises often originate from pro-Khalistan leaders and sympathizers, with some Gurudwaras in Canada serving as platforms for separatist voices.

Gurpatwant Singh Pannu Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, believed to be residing in Hamilton, Canada, tops the list of Canada-based separatist elements. As the ‘general counsel’ of Sikhs for Justice, he has called on Punjab-based gangsters to target Army officers and even offered rewards.

Concerns Persist The ongoing nexus between organized crime and Sikh extremism in Canada remains a growing concern, with implications for both Indian and Canadian authorities. Addressing this issue will require international cooperation and concerted efforts to curb the influence of these elements.

Summary:

• Recent killing of pro-Khalistan gangster Sukha Deneka by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang in Canada sheds light on the enduring nexus between Indo-Canadian gangsters and Sikh separatists.
• Tensions rise as Canada is accused of harboring terrorists and India is criticized for its role in the killing of Harpreet Singh Nijjar.
• Key figures like Goldy Brar and Arsh Dalla operate from Canada, embracing criminal activities and separatist ideologies.
• Historical roots trace back to the 1970s and have expanded over time, raising concerns over funding and radicalization.
• Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, residing in Canada, tops the list of separatist elements.
• Ongoing concerns prompt the need for international cooperation to combat this issue effectively.

In a surprising turn of events, the Janata Dal Secular (JDS), led by HD Kumaraswamy, has announced an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, marking a significant departure from its previous “secular” stance. The move has raised eyebrows and speculation about the political landscape in Karnataka.

The JDS, historically considered a family party of the Gowda clan, had long questioned the BJP’s “secular” credentials, labeling it a “communal” party. However, the recent assembly elections in Karnataka, in which both parties suffered a humiliating defeat, seem to have brought them together in a bid to challenge the ruling Congress.

During the assembly elections, there were allegations of a secret pact between the JDS and BJP to defeat the Congress, leading to a strained relationship between the JDS and Congress. This strained relationship ultimately led to the JDS aligning itself with the BJP, which was still recovering from its electoral setback.

The alliance between the JDS and BJP has been met with mixed reactions. While on paper, the two parties have a combined vote share of over 50%, the complex dynamics of Karnataka politics raise questions about the sustainability of this alliance. Karnataka has a history of deep-rooted divisions between dominant upper castes, such as Lingayats and Vokkaligas, and the AHINDA (Minorities, OBCs, SC/STs) coalition.

Lingayats, traditionally a BJP support base, are unhappy with the party’s attempts to diversify its voter base, potentially alienating them. On the other hand, Vokkaligas, who form a significant part of the JDS’s support, fear that supporting the alliance may lead to Brahmin-Lingayat dominance, something they strongly oppose.

Outside of a few districts in the Old Mysore region, the JDS has limited influence in Karnataka, making the alliance’s impact uncertain in other parts of the state.

The ruling Congress, while publicly dismissing the alliance’s threat, privately acknowledges concerns about the potential consolidation of the Gowda caste behind the JDS, which could benefit the BJP. Additionally, factors like severe drought and water scarcity in the Cauvery River may influence voter sentiment.

As the alliance between the JDS and BJP takes shape, it remains to be seen whether this unusual political partnership will hold or if Karnataka will witness yet another realignment of power.

News Summary:

• Janata Dal Secular (JDS) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announce an alliance ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, marking a significant shift in Karnataka politics.
• The move follows the parties’ humiliating defeats in the recent assembly elections and strained relationships with the Congress.
• Complex dynamics, including divisions among upper castes and the AHINDA coalition, raise questions about the sustainability of the alliance.
• The ruling Congress is cautious, as the alliance could lead to the consolidation of the Gowda caste behind the JDS, potentially benefiting the BJP.
• Factors like severe drought and water scarcity in the Cauvery River may influence voter sentiment in Karnataka.

New Delhi, September 23, 2023 (Reuters) – Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader, N Chandrababu Naidu, has moved the Supreme Court of India to challenge the recent decision by the Andhra Pradesh High Court, which dismissed his plea seeking the quashing of the First Information Report (FIR) against him in the Skill Development Corporation scam case.

Earlier today, a team from the Andhra Pradesh Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) commenced their interrogation of Chandrababu Naidu in connection with the Skill Development Corporation scam. The questioning took place at the central prison in Rajamahendravaram.

In a significant development, the ACB Court in Vijayawada had granted two days of police custody for the 73-year-old Naidu to be interrogated by the CID. Additionally, the judicial remand of Chandrababu Naidu in the case related to the Andhra Pradesh Skill Development Corporation scam has been extended until September 24.

The authorized questioning hours for Naidu are from 9.30 am to 5 pm on both September 23 and September 24. The court has permitted the involvement of three deputy superintendents of police (DSPs) from the Economic Offences Wing of the CID, along with six junior police officers, one professional videographer, and two official mediators in the interrogation process.

Reacting to the Andhra Pradesh High Court’s decision to dismiss Chandrababu Naidu’s FIR quash petition, TDP state president K Atchen Naidu stated that the party’s legal wing would approach the Supreme Court. He also alleged that Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy had displayed a vindictive attitude toward the state’s primary opposition party.

Background on the AP Skill Development Corporation Scam Case:

The AP Skill Development Corporation scam case revolves around the establishment of clusters of Centers of Excellence (CoEs) in the state of Andhra Pradesh, with a total estimated project value of ₹300 crore. Authorities have claimed that the alleged fraud has caused substantial losses to the state government, exceeding ₹300 crores.

The investigation conducted by the CID revealed various irregularities, including the advance of ₹371 crores by the state government to private entities before any expenditure. These funds were subsequently diverted to shell companies through fake invoices, with no actual delivery or sale of the items mentioned in these invoices, according to CID officials.

The CID’s remand report highlighted that the total amount spent by private entities on six skill development clusters was sourced exclusively from funds advanced by the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the AP Skill Development Center, totaling ₹371 crores.

In the wake of these developments, Chandrababu Naidu’s legal battle to clear his name continues, with the matter now before the country’s highest court.

News Summary:

• Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has challenged the FIR against him in the Skill Development Corporation scam case by moving the Supreme Court.
• The Andhra Pradesh High Court recently dismissed Naidu’s plea to quash the FIR.
• Naidu is currently under police custody for further interrogation in the case, which centers around alleged financial irregularities involving ₹300 crore.
• The investigation reveals that the government advanced ₹371 crores to private entities, which were subsequently diverted to shell companies through fake invoices.
• The case continues to draw attention, with political implications and legal battles ongoing.

In a significant operation, local police raided a massage parlor in the upscale Banjara Hills neighborhood of Hyderabad, leading to the arrest of four individuals. The authorities have intensified efforts to crack down on illegal activities in the area, which is known for its posh residences and commercial establishments.

The operation, carried out by a team of officers from the Banjara Hills Police Station, took place late on Friday evening. The massage parlor, named “Serenity Spa,” had been under surveillance for several weeks following reports of suspicious activities.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ramesh Kumar, commented on the operation, saying, “We received multiple complaints from concerned citizens about the activities taking place in this establishment. Our investigation revealed that it was operating without the necessary licenses and involved in activities that violated public decency.”

During the raid, the police arrested two men and two women who were found inside the premises. They have been identified as Rahul Sharma, 32; Alok Kapoor, 28; Meera Sharma, 26; and Priya Singh, 30. All four have been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for running an illegal establishment and engaging in immoral activities.

The police also confiscated various items, including massage oils, incense, and cash, as part of their evidence collection.

The Banjara Hills area is home to several upscale residences, luxury hotels, and high-end restaurants. The presence of an illegal massage parlor in the vicinity has raised concerns among residents and business owners, prompting the police to take swift action.

Local resident and business owner, Ritu Verma, expressed relief over the raid, stating, “We’ve been living in fear with such establishments operating in our neighborhood. This sends a strong message that the law will prevail.”

The authorities have vowed to continue their crackdown on illegal activities in Banjara Hills to maintain the area’s reputation as a safe and upscale locality.

News Summary:

• Police in Hyderabad’s Banjara Hills conducted a successful raid on the “Serenity Spa” massage parlor, resulting in the arrest of four individuals.
• The establishment had been under surveillance due to reports of suspicious activities and operating without the required licenses.
• Those arrested have been identified as Rahul Sharma, Alok Kapoor, Meera Sharma, and Priya Singh, all booked under relevant legal sections.
• Residents and business owners in the upscale neighborhood have expressed relief and support for the police crackdown on illegal activities.
• Authorities have committed to maintaining the area’s reputation as a safe and upscale locality by continuing their efforts against unlawful establishments

In a highly anticipated speech during a special session of Parliament, Baramati MP and NCP leader Supriya Sule refuted allegations of seeking a probe against her cousin, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. She instead demanded an apology from the BJP for making corruption allegations against her and her party.

In a remarkable address before the Lok Sabha during a special session of Parliament, Supriya Sule, the Member of Parliament from Baramati and prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), clarified her stance on recent controversies surrounding her and her family. Sule’s speech, which included the statement “No one should get a brother like him,” generated significant attention and speculation.

Sule began by asserting that she had not demanded a probe against her cousin, Ajit Pawar, who serves as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Instead, she insisted that her primary concern was the corruption allegations made against her party by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the demand for an apology from the BJP.

“I have not demanded a probe against Ajit Pawar. I have not taken any individual’s names,” Sule affirmed during her parliamentary address. “I only asked the Prime Minister to reply to the corruption allegation made by their lead speaker against us. I sought special comments as the BJP had made allegations against me and the Congress.”

Sule clarified her statement, “No one should get a brother like this,” explaining that it was not directed at any specific individual, including her cousin. She stressed that her speeches in Parliament were not limited to individuals and that her remarks aimed to address broader issues.

“Every time I speak, it is not about an individual. Why is it applicable only to me?” Sule questioned. “My response in Parliament came after Home Minister Amit Shah said that when it comes to the issue of women, why should women take the lead… What is wrong if a man takes the lead? I told Amitbhai that not all brothers give justice to their sisters…”

Furthermore, Sule called on the BJP to apologize for what she considered baseless allegations of corruption against her and her party. She emphasized that her intent was not to target specific individuals but to hold the BJP accountable for its accusations.

“I have not taken individuals’ names… The BJP keeps making allegations of corruption against its opponents. After the allegations are made, if the opponents join hands with the BJP, then the allegations disappear. Then in this case, the BJP should tell us whether the allegation of corruption was false,” Sule asserted. “If so, then the BJP should apologize for lying… It should tell the people that it made false allegations. If the allegations are true, then the BJP should say that it is not against corruption but encourages corruption… I protest against this dual standard of the BJP.”

Sule’s speech came in the wake of income tax raids conducted on the properties of her sisters in October 2021, a move she criticized as politically motivated.

In conclusion, Supriya Sule used her parliamentary platform to clarify her stance on recent controversies, denying allegations of seeking a probe against her cousin while demanding accountability from the BJP for its corruption allegations.

News Summary:

• Supriya Sule, NCP leader and Baramati MP, clarified in Parliament that she did not seek a probe against her cousin, Ajit Pawar, but demanded an apology from the BJP for making corruption allegations against her party.
• Sule explained that her statement “No one should get a brother like this” was not aimed at any specific individual and called for broader accountability in politics.
• She criticized the BJP for making allegations of corruption against opponents and urged them to clarify the truth behind these claims.
• Sule’s speech came after income tax raids on her sisters’ properties in October 2021, which she regarded as politically motivated

A fire broke out in the generator coach and an adjoining passenger car of the Shri Ganganagar Humsafar Express train shortly after its departure from Valsad railway station in Gujarat on Saturday afternoon, railway officials confirmed. The incident occurred around 2 pm as the train was en route to Surat. Thankfully, all passengers are reported to be safe, and no injuries have been reported.

According to a railway official, “A fire broke out in Tiruchchirappalli-Sri Ganganagar Humsafar Express around 2 pm soon after it left Valsad station towards Surat.”

The fire is believed to have originated in the power coach, likely due to a short circuit, before quickly spreading to the adjacent B1 coach. Superintendent of Police Karanraj Vaghela stated that the situation was swiftly brought under control by the emergency response teams.

While the incident understandably caused panic among the passengers, the well-executed response by railway authorities ensured that the train was promptly halted, and all passengers safely disembarked.

Officials are now working to assess the extent of the damage and determine the cause of the short circuit. Passengers have been accommodated and provided with necessary support as they await further instructions.

Summary:

• A fire broke out in Shri Ganganagar Humsafar Express near Valsad station in Gujarat, India.
• The fire originated in the power coach, likely due to a short circuit, and spread to an adjoining passenger car.
• All passengers were safely evacuated, and no injuries have been reported.
• Railway authorities promptly responded to the incident, bringing the fire under control.
• An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the short circuit, and passengers are receiving necessary assistance.