Author: Soham Kachdiya

Jadavpur University, one of India’s prestigious educational institutions, has taken a stern stance against a tragic incident of ragging that led to the unfortunate demise of a first-year student last month. In a decisive move, the university’s executive council has decided to debar 35 students from the main hostel who were found guilty of involvement in the fatal ragging incident.

The decision, which comes after careful consideration of the findings of an internal committee tasked with investigating the student’s death, was announced following a late-night meeting that extended past 9 pm on Tuesday.

An official from Jadavpur University stated, “As of now, it has been decided that 35 students will be debarred from the hostel based on their involvement in ragging. Since it was decided in a meeting of the anti-ragging committee held on September 15 that the report would also be sent to the anti-ragging squad, detailed penal measures would be announced after the squad gives its views.”

Despite attempts to reach the university’s officiating Vice-Chancellor, Buddhadeb Sau, and Registrar Snehamanju Basu for comments, no response was received at the time of this report.

Partha Pratim Roy, the general secretary of JU teachers’ union, emphasized the importance of transparency in the process, saying, “We demanded that the report be tabled at a meeting of the university’s highest decision-making body. Let the council now decide how far they want to act on the report.”

It is worth noting that the anti-ragging squad had previously decided on August 13 not to initiate an independent probe into the student’s death, citing the formation of an internal committee for this purpose.

Summary:

• Jadavpur University has decided to expel 35 students from the main hostel in connection with a fatal ragging incident that led to the death of a first-year student.
• The decision was made by the university’s executive council after reviewing the report of an internal committee.
• Detailed penal measures will be determined by the anti-ragging squad following their review of the report.
• Calls and messages to university officials for comments remain unanswered.
• The JU teachers’ union has called for transparency in handling the report and its recommendations.
• The anti-ragging squad had earlier refrained from initiating an independent probe due to the formation of the internal committee.

Reuters: Jadavpur University Takes Decisive Action Against Students Involved in Fatal Ragging Incident

Kolkata, India – September 27, 2023

Jadavpur University, renowned for its academic excellence, has made a resolute decision to expel 35 students from its main hostel in the wake of a tragic ragging incident that claimed the life of a first-year student last month. This stern action follows an extensive review by the university’s executive council, which extended into the late hours of Tuesday.

The decision, arising from a careful examination of an internal committee’s findings, underscores the university’s commitment to addressing the scourge of ragging on its campus. The administration’s dedication to ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment is evident in this move.

The official statement noted, “As of now, it has been decided that 35 students will be debarred from the hostel based on their involvement in ragging.” It further clarified that “detailed penal measures would be announced after the squad gives its views,” referring to the anti-ragging squad.

Efforts to obtain comments from Jadavpur University’s officiating Vice-Chancellor, Buddhadeb Sau, and Registrar Snehamanju Basu remained unsuccessful at the time of this report.

Partha Pratim Roy, the general secretary of JU teachers’ union, stressed the need for transparency, stating, “We demanded that the report be tabled at a meeting of the university’s highest decision-making body. Let the council now decide how far they want to act on the report.”

It is noteworthy that the anti-ragging squad had previously decided not to initiate an independent probe into the student’s tragic death, citing the formation of the internal committee for this purpose.

In a resounding message against ragging, Jadavpur University’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for all students.

Summary:

• Jadavpur University has taken firm action by expelling 35 students from its main hostel in response to a fatal ragging incident.
• The decision reflects the university’s commitment to combatting ragging and ensuring a safe campus environment.
• Detailed penalties will be determined by the anti-ragging squad after reviewing the incident.
• University officials declined to comment on the matter.
• The teachers’ union emphasizes the importance of transparency in addressing the incident.
• The anti-ragging squad refrained from conducting an independent probe due to the existence of an internal committee.

In a press conference held on Wednesday, JD(S) chief H D Deve Gowda justified his party’s recent alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He took the opportunity to launch a scathing attack on the Congress, accusing them of trying to dismantle secular forces in India while masquerading as champions of secular democracy.

Gowda clarified that the JD(S)’ alliance with the BJP does not signify a departure from their commitment to secular ideals. He emphasized their unwavering dedication to safeguarding the rights and interests of minority communities, asserting, “Even if we form a government with the BJP, we will not let go of minority protection. There should be no doubt that we will protect the minorities.”

He further criticized the Congress for what he described as their self-serving actions, driven by the desire to perpetuate political control within a single family. Gowda alleged that the Congress consistently sought to undermine the JD(S) whenever they formed an alliance with the national party.

Gowda pointed to the role of senior Congress leaders in Karnataka in the collapse of the JD(S)-Congress coalition government in 2019. He raised questions about the Congress central leadership’s knowledge of these actions, adding that they failed to support JD(S) candidate B M Farooq in a Rajya Sabha election.

“Critics claim that Congress has committed one blunder after another while advocating for a secular democracy,” Gowda remarked.

Addressing concerns about the impact of the alliance on the regional party, Gowda revealed that the decision was made after extensive discussions with all 19 MLAs and 8 MLCs. He challenged the notion that any political party in India could claim to have no relationship with the BJP, citing instances of even some Left leaders aligning with the saffron party to challenge Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal.

Gowda emphasized that the alliance was not driven by opportunism but rather by a genuine commitment to saving the regional party, which he had dedicated 40 years of his life to building. Seat-sharing details between JD(S) and BJP have yet to be finalized, pending deliberations by the BJP Parliamentary Board.

Responding to reports of some Muslim community leaders severing ties with JD(S) following the alliance, Gowda reassured that his party would continue to protect minority interests. “Even if we form a government with BJP, we will not let go of minority protection. There should be no doubt. We will protect minorities,” he affirmed.

News Summary:

• JD(S) Chief Deve Gowda defended the party’s alliance with BJP, asserting their commitment to secular ideals.
• He accused the Congress of undermining secular forces while maintaining a facade of secularism.
• Gowda criticized Congress for past actions and their failure to support JD(S) candidates.
• The alliance with BJP was made after extensive discussions within the JD(S) and is not opportunistic, according to Gowda.
• Seat-sharing details between JD(S) and BJP are pending BJP Parliamentary Board deliberations.
• Gowda affirmed JD(S)’ dedication to protecting minority interests, addressing concerns of Muslim community leaders severing ties.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, urging him to remove Manipur’s Chief Minister, whom he termed “incompetent,” as the first step in addressing the ongoing unrest in the state. Kharge also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of transforming Manipur into a battlefield and weaponizing violence against women and children.

The backdrop of Kharge’s criticism stems from a recent clash in the Singjamei area of Imphal, where Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel clashed with locals protesting the disappearance and subsequent killing of two students who had been missing since July 6. The confrontation resulted in tear gas being fired, rubber bullets being deployed, and baton charges, leaving 45 protesters, primarily students, injured.

“For 147 days, the people of Manipur have been suffering, yet Prime Minister Modi has not found the time to visit the state. The distressing images of students being targeted in this violence have once again shocked the entire nation,” Kharge stated.

He went on to assert, “It is now evident that violence against women and children has been weaponized in this strife. The once-beautiful state of Manipur has been transformed into a battlefield, all because of the BJP.”

Kharge emphasized the urgency of the situation, saying, “It is high time Prime Minister Modi sacks the BJP’s incompetent Chief Minister of Manipur. This would be the first step to quell any further turmoil.”

The Congress party has consistently critiqued the government over the Manipur violence issue and questioned why the Prime Minister has not personally visited the strife-ridden state.

As of Wednesday morning, the situation in Imphal remained relatively calm but tense following the previous night’s clash between students and RAF personnel. A significant deployment of Manipur Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and RAF personnel was observed throughout Imphal Valley in anticipation of potential protests and violence.

While the state government declared a school holiday for Wednesday, students from some Imphal-based institutions have vowed to assemble at their schools, raising concerns of possible protests later in the day.

Summary:

• Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has called for the removal of Manipur’s Chief Minister amidst ongoing turmoil in the state.
• Kharge accused the BJP of weaponizing violence against women and children in Manipur.
• Recent clashes in Imphal between RAF personnel and locals protesting the killing of two missing students have left 45 protesters injured.
• Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not visiting Manipur despite 147 days of suffering in the state.
• The situation in Imphal remains calm but tense, with a significant deployment of security forces. Students’ plans to gather at schools raise concerns of further protests.

Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, emphasized the need for a bilateral resolution to the Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, rejecting any third-party intervention, including that of the United States. Speaking to reporters, Garcetti also defended a recent visit by the US Ambassador to Pakistan to Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), asserting that the US had also visited Indian-administered Kashmir during the G20 summit.

Ambassador Donald Blome’s visit to Gilgit-Baltistan in PoK raised eyebrows as he had previously referred to it as “AJK” (Azad Jammu and Kashmir), Pakistan’s preferred terminology for PoK.

During his visit, Blome met with AJK Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas and various representatives from academia, business, culture, and civil society. The usage of “AJK” sparked controversy in India, given the sensitivities surrounding the status of Jammu and Kashmir, which India claims in its entirety.

Garcetti addressed the issue of Kashmir, affirming the US commitment to remain engaged while reiterating that the dispute must be resolved through direct negotiations between India and Pakistan, in line with India’s position under the 1972 Simla Agreement. India has consistently opposed internationalizing the Kashmir issue and involving third-party mediation.

“This is an issue that has to be resolved between India and Pakistan and not by a third party, including the US,” Garcetti stated during the 20th Indo-US Economic Summit.

The US Ambassador’s remarks underscore the longstanding Indian stance on the Kashmir dispute, emphasizing direct dialogue with Pakistan as the preferred means of resolution.

Summary:

• US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, underscores the need for a bilateral resolution to the Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, rejecting third-party intervention.
• Garcetti defends the recent visit by US Ambassador Donald Blome to Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the use of “AJK” in reference to PoK, sparking controversy in India.
• Ambassador Blome’s visit included meetings with AJK Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas and various representatives.
• Garcetti’s remarks align with India’s position, emphasizing direct negotiations in accordance with the 1972 Simla Agreement.
• India has consistently opposed internationalizing the Kashmir issue and involving third-party mediation.

Read more at:
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/news/nomura-upgrades-india-to-overweight-from-neutral-heres-why/articleshow/103977236.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst

Global brokerage firm Nomura has upgraded the Indian equity market to an overweight status, indicating confidence in the country’s long-term economic prospects. This upgrade comes despite the belief that valuations may remain expensive, reflecting Nomura’s optimism in India’s structural story and its position as a major beneficiary of the “China+1” theme.

In their latest strategy report, Nomura analysts stated, “The structural story of India is now well known as a major beneficiary of the ‘China+1’ theme, possessing a large, liquid equity market. We see recent softness driven by higher oil prices as an opportunity to raise exposure. While this weakness may persist in the near term, thus presenting even better timing, we think the window of opportunity might not be open for too long. Valuations are expensive but will likely remain so in a scenario of policy/government continuity.”

Key points from the report:

1. India’s Attraction as an Investment Destination:
Nomura’s upgrade highlights India’s attractiveness as an investment destination, particularly in the context of the “China+1” strategy. India’s large and liquid equity market makes it a favorable choice for investors seeking diversification.

2. Opportunity Amid Short-Term Weakness:
Despite acknowledging short-term challenges, including softness due to higher oil prices, Nomura sees this as an opportunity to increase exposure to the Indian market. The analysts believe that this window of opportunity may be time-limited.

3. Expensive Valuations and Policy Continuity:
While valuations are considered expensive, Nomura anticipates that they will likely remain so, given the expectation of policy and government continuity in India.

4. Factors Supporting Investor Optimism:
Nomura identifies factors supporting investor optimism in the Indian market, including a K-shaped economy, high earnings growth, positive earnings revisions, and robust domestic inflows, even in the face of higher interest rates.

5. Preferred Stocks:
Nomura recommends a mix of stocks with reasonable relative valuations and exposure to domestic growth areas. Some of the preferred stocks mentioned in their report include ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, L&T, Reliance, ITC, and MedPlus Health. Additionally, the report highlights stocks likely to benefit from structural themes, such as increasing electric vehicle (EV) adoption, including M&M and Uno Minda.

This upgrade from Nomura follows similar moves by other global brokerage firms. Morgan Stanley recently upgraded Indian stocks to an overweight rating, ranking India as the No. 1 market in its basket of Asian emerging markets ex-Japan. Similarly, Goldman Sachs has previously expressed its overweight position on India, citing medium-term growth prospects and recommending foreign investors to build exposure in the Indian market.

In conclusion, the global investment community appears increasingly bullish on Indian equities, viewing them as a potential source of alpha generation in the years ahead.

News Summary: Nomura has upgraded the Indian equity market to an overweight status, emphasizing India’s role as a beneficiary of the “China+1” theme and a large, liquid equity market. Despite acknowledging expensive valuations, Nomura sees opportunities in India’s structural story and anticipates the continuation of favorable policies. This move follows similar upgrades by other global brokerage firms, reflecting growing optimism in the Indian market.

In the wake of a recent disaster, a joint team of government and United Nations agencies conducted a comprehensive ‘post-disaster needs assessment’ in the subsistence-hit region of Joshimath, Uttarakhand. The resulting report has recommended a series of crucial measures to facilitate long-term recovery and safety in the area.

Key Highlights:

• The assessment, carried out from April 22 to 25, involved a 35-member team comprising professionals from the National Disaster Management Authority, UN agencies, Central Building Research Institute, National Institute of Disaster Management, and other organizations.
• The study was initiated in response to major structural issues that emerged in the region earlier this year, primarily due to land subsidence. These issues prompted the relocation of 355 families.
• The report strongly emphasized the importance of proper documentation and compliance with building regulations for post-subsistence recovery. It recommended against providing financial assistance to households without valid land-ownership documents or buildings that were illegally encroached.
• A complete ban on new construction in the entire Joshimath area has been suggested until the conclusion of the upcoming monsoon season. Following a post-monsoon reassessment of ground conditions, there may be consideration for allowing new construction with prefab lightweight structures in comparatively safer areas.
• Retrofitting of old buildings has been proposed, along with permission for single-storey public buildings with prefab lightweight structures for critical emergency services only.
• It is crucial to officially inform the people of Joshimath about the unsafe zones in the town where new construction will not be permitted.
• The agencies involved in the assessment stressed the need to develop a prospective plan aimed at creating a safe and resilient region in Joshimath for the next 10 to 15 years.
• The region of Joshimath has been grappling with subsistence issues since the 1970s. Situated in seismic zone V, it is also prone to landslides and flash floods.
• A report dating back to 1978 had recommended against major construction work in the region, particularly in the Niti and Mana valleys, due to the unstable nature of the terrain, characterized by rocks, sediments, and soil deposited by glaciers.

In Summary:
The ‘post-disaster needs assessment’ in Joshimath, Uttarakhand, conducted by government and UN agencies, has called for a ban on new construction until the end of the upcoming monsoon season. The report emphasizes proper documentation and compliance with building regulations and recommends against providing financial assistance to households without valid land-ownership documents or illegally encroached buildings. The focus is on creating a safe and resilient region for the next 10 to 15 years in a region prone to subsistence issues, landslides, and flash floods.

In a devastating incident that unfolded during a wedding celebration in Iraq’s Nineveh province, more than 100 people lost their lives, and approximately 150 others sustained injuries as a raging fire engulfed a large events hall in the Hamdaniya district. The incident prompted a frantic search for survivors in the charred remains of the building, with civil defense teams tirelessly working into the early hours of Wednesday.

Deputy Governor Confirms Grim Toll
Nineveh Deputy Governor Hassan al-Allaq confirmed the grim toll, stating that 113 people had tragically lost their lives. State media sources initially reported the death toll to be at least 100, with 150 individuals suffering injuries of varying severity.

Celebration Turns Tragic
The calamity unfolded when the festive atmosphere turned into a nightmare as fireworks were ignited during the wedding celebration. Local civil defense officials reported that the fire swiftly consumed the events hall in the northeastern region, leaving attendees with little time to react.

Survivor’s Account
Imad Yohana, a 34-year-old survivor who managed to escape the inferno, recounted the horrifying scene, saying, “We saw the fire pulsating, coming out of the hall. Those who managed got out and those who didn’t got stuck. Even those who made their way out were broken.”

This tragic incident has cast a pall of sorrow over the Hamdaniya district and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures during large gatherings.

Summary:

• Over 100 people lost their lives and around 150 were injured in a devastating fire that swept through a wedding celebration in Hamdaniya, Iraq’s Nineveh province.
• Deputy Governor Hassan al-Allaq confirmed the death toll at 113, while state media initially reported at least 100 deaths and 150 injuries.
• The fire erupted when fireworks were ignited during the celebration, rapidly engulfing the events hall.
• Survivor Imad Yohana described the harrowing experience, emphasizing the chaos and urgency of the situation.
• The tragedy underscores the critical need for safety precautions during large gatherings.

In a significant address during a video conferencing event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined the pivotal role of government employees in shaping India’s future as it aims to become the world’s third-largest economy. The Prime Minister distributed 51,000 appointment letters to newly recruited individuals at the Rozgar Mela, emphasizing the mission of employment generation.

The recruits, carefully selected from across the country, will soon be joining various ministries and departments, including the Department of Posts, Indian Audit and Accounts Department, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Revenue, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Health, among others. This employment drive spans 46 locations across India.

Addressing gender equality and women empowerment, Prime Minister Modi noted, “The women reservation issue, which was stuck for 30 years, has passed both houses with record votes.” He emphasized that this momentous decision signifies a fresh start for the nation during the inaugural session of the new Parliament.

With an eye on India’s soaring aspirations, Prime Minister Modi stated, “India has taken the resolve to become Viksit Bharat by 2047. In the next few years, the nation will become the third-largest economy globally, and government employees will have a significant role to play in the times ahead.”

He underscored the importance of the “Citizens First” approach and urged government employees to apply it in their work, enhancing the efficiency of governance.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the crucial responsibility shouldered by government employees in implementing government schemes at the grassroots level. He noted that the speed and scale of policy implementation receive a substantial boost when thousands of young individuals join government services, leading to employment growth beyond the public sector and the creation of new employment structures.

As India marches towards its goal of economic prominence, the commitment and dedication of government employees continue to be a driving force in realizing the nation’s vision.

News Summary:

• Prime Minister Modi recognizes the pivotal role of government employees in India‘s ascent to the world’s third-largest economy during a video conferencing event.
• 51,000 newly recruited individuals received appointment letters at the Rozgar Mela, spanning 46 locations across India.
• The recruits will serve in various ministries and departments, contributing to the nation’s growth.
• Prime Minister Modi highlights the passing of the women reservation issue and its significance for gender equality.
• India’s ambition to become Viksit Bharat by 2047 is on track, with government employees expected to play a key role.
• The “Citizens First” approach is emphasized to improve governance efficiency, and the importance of government employees in policy implementation is underscored.

Read more at: https://www.onmanorama.com/travel/travel-news/2023/09/26/vande-bharat-express-second-kerala-train-occupancy-stats.html

In a historic moment for Kerala’s railway network, the second Vande Bharat Express, a symbol of modernity and speed, commenced its regular service from Thiruvananthapuram, the state’s capital, to Palakkad on September 26, 2023. Amidst a jubilant atmosphere, the train embarked on its maiden voyage, marking a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance rail connectivity.

The Vande Bharat Express, often dubbed the ‘Train 18,’ is a flagship project of Indian Railways, designed to offer passengers a comfortable and efficient mode of travel. The introduction of the second Vande Bharat Express in Kerala is set to revolutionize rail travel in the region.

Enhanced Travel Experience

The train, manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) Chennai, boasts world-class amenities and cutting-edge technology. It features spacious and well-appointed interiors, reclining seats, Wi-Fi connectivity, GPS-based passenger information systems, and bio-toilets, ensuring a seamless and eco-friendly journey for passengers.

Speaking about the new service, Kerala’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “The introduction of Kerala’s second Vande Bharat Express is a testament to our commitment to providing world-class travel experiences to our citizens and visitors alike. It will significantly reduce travel time and enhance connectivity between Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad.”

Enhanced Connectivity

The second Vande Bharat Express will cover the distance between Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad in approximately six hours, offering a faster and more convenient alternative to road travel. The train will make stops at important stations en route, including Kollam, Chengannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Ottapalam, ensuring improved accessibility for passengers.

Positive Occupancy Stats

In the initial days of its operation, the Vande Bharat Express has witnessed promising occupancy rates, with passengers appreciating the train’s modern amenities and punctuality. Rail authorities report that bookings for future journeys on the route are steadily increasing, reflecting the growing popularity of the service.

Indian Railways spokesperson, Anil Kumar, stated, “We are delighted to see the positive response to Kerala’s second Vande Bharat Express. Passengers are enjoying the comfort and speed of the train, which aligns with our vision of transforming the Indian rail experience.”

A Sustainable Future

Besides offering a premium travel experience, the Vande Bharat Express is also environmentally friendly, equipped with regenerative braking systems that save energy and reduce carbon emissions, aligning with India’s sustainable development goals.

As the Vande Bharat Express becomes an integral part of Kerala’s rail network, it is expected to boost tourism, trade, and overall economic development in the region, providing passengers with a safe, swift, and eco-conscious means of transportation.

In Brief:

• Kerala’s second Vande Bharat Express began regular service from Thiruvananthapuram to Palakkad on September 26, 2023.
• The train offers modern amenities and reduced travel time.
• Kerala’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, emphasizes the commitment to world-class travel experiences.
• Positive occupancy rates and growing popularity are observed in the initial days.
• The train supports sustainable development with regenerative braking systems.

Indian automotive giant Mahindra & Mahindra issued a statement on September 26, responding to a First Information Report (FIR) filed against the company and its Chairman, Anand Mahindra, along with 12 others. The FIR, lodged in Uttar Pradesh, stemmed from a car accident in January 2022 in which a man lost his son. The complainant alleged that the car’s safety features, particularly the airbags, did not function as advertised.

In its statement, Mahindra & Mahindra clarified that the incident in question is more than 18 months old, emphasizing that the reported incident took place in January 2022.

Addressing the allegations about the absence of airbags in the vehicle, the company stated, “We would hence like to categorically reconfirm that the Scorpio S9 variant manufactured in 2020 did have airbags.”

Furthermore, Mahindra & Mahindra noted that they conducted an extensive technical investigation in October 2022. The company’s findings indicated that the airbags had not malfunctioned in the accident. They explained that it was a rollover case, and frontal airbags would not deploy in such circumstances.

The FIR was filed by Rajesh Mishra from Kanpur, who claimed to have purchased a black Scorpio worth Rs 17.40 lakh after being convinced of its safety features promoted through advertisements and social media posts by Mahindra. The car was gifted to his son, Apoorv Mishra, who tragically lost his life in a car accident. The airbags, which were supposed to be installed in the vehicle, allegedly did not deploy.

Mahindra & Mahindra concluded its statement by acknowledging that the matter is currently sub judice and expressed their commitment to cooperating with the authorities for any further investigation.

Summary:

• Mahindra & Mahindra issues statement addressing FIR allegations related to car safety assurances.
• The company clarifies that the incident in question occurred in January 2022 and is more than 18 months old.
• Mahindra & Mahindra confirms that the Scorpio S9 variant manufactured in 2020 had airbags.
• The company’s technical investigation in October 2022 found no airbag malfunction and explained that the accident was a rollover case.
• The FIR was filed by a man who alleged that his son’s car accident was due to non-deployment of airbags.
• Mahindra & Mahindra commits to cooperating with authorities in the ongoing investigation.