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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.

Parts of India witnessed a dramatic shift in weather conditions as heavy rain brought much-needed relief from scorching temperatures. The national capital, Delhi, experienced a sudden downpour, while Chandigarh and Nagpur also saw significant rainfall. Here’s a roundup of the weather events:

Delhi-NCR Gets a Soaking:

• The minimum temperature in Delhi reached 27 degrees Celsius, which was three notches above the seasonal average.
• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted a cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle throughout the day, with a maximum temperature expected to reach 36 degrees Celsius.
• Several areas, including east Delhi, Shahdara, northeast Delhi, and the southern region, witnessed rain after days of overcast conditions.
• The rainfall provided a welcome respite for Delhi residents who had been enduring scorching heat.

Chandigarh and Neighboring Regions Soaked:

• Chandigarh and its neighboring areas received 11.2 mm of rainfall, offering relief from oppressive weather conditions.
• Punjab’s Mohali and Haryana’s Panchkula, bordering Chandigarh, also experienced precipitation.

Nagpur Faces Flooding:

• Nagpur city in Maharashtra was inundated with heavy rains, leading to the rescue of 180 individuals, including 40 students from a school for the hearing and speech-impaired.
• National Disaster Response (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are working to rescue people from flooded homes and streets.
• Two Army units are en route to the Ambazari area, where a lake overflowed.
• The Nagpur airport recorded 106 mm of rainfall by 5:30 am, resulting in multiple roads and residential areas being submerged.
• In response, local authorities declared a holiday for schools and colleges.

Mumbai Predicts More Rain:

• The Regional Meteorological Center in Mumbai had previously predicted heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in parts of Konkan and the ghat regions of Madhya in Maharashtra for three days, ending today.

The heavy rains across these regions have brought relief but also raised concerns about flooding and waterlogging. Local authorities are advising residents to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.

News Summary:

• Heavy rain provides relief in Delhi-NCR, with temperatures three notches above the seasonal average.
• Chandigarh and neighboring areas receive a respite from oppressive weather with 11.2 mm of rainfall.
• Nagpur faces flooding, leading to evacuations and Army deployment.
• Mumbai predicts more heavy rainfall in certain regions of Maharashtra

The Justin Trudeau government in Canada is under scrutiny for its handling of questions surrounding the background and origins of Khalistani separatist-terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, as a viral video featuring Nijjar advocating violence raises concerns about national security and diplomatic relations.

Video Sparks Controversy: A video circulating on social media has ignited a firestorm of controversy, with Nijjar seen advocating for the killing of officials using suicide vests during an address at a gurdwara. In the same video, he applauds those responsible for the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Government’s Casual Approach: Critics argue that the Trudeau government has taken a seemingly casual approach to inquiries about Nijjar’s background and connections. The Canadian Prime Minister himself has alleged that India played a role in Nijjar’s death, further complicating the matter.

National Security Concerns: The video’s emergence has raised concerns about national security, with experts highlighting the potential risks posed by individuals with extremist views operating within Canadian borders. Questions regarding how Nijjar was able to freely advocate violence within Canada remain unanswered.

Diplomatic Tensions with India: Trudeau’s allegations of India’s involvement in Nijjar’s death have strained diplomatic relations between the two countries. The Indian government has vehemently denied any role in the matter and called for a transparent investigation.

Calls for Transparency and Accountability: Amid the growing controversy, Canadian citizens and politicians are calling for transparency and accountability from the Trudeau government. They demand a thorough investigation into Nijjar’s background and activities, as well as a review of Canada’s policies on dealing with individuals linked to extremism.

Conclusion: As Canada grapples with the fallout from the video featuring Hardeep Singh Nijjar, questions about national security, diplomatic relations, and government transparency take center stage. The Trudeau administration faces mounting pressure to address these concerns and provide clarity on its stance regarding individuals with extremist views on Canadian soil.

News Summary:

• A viral video featuring Khalistani separatist-terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar advocating violence has sparked controversy in Canada.
• Critics accuse the Trudeau government of a casual approach to inquiries about Nijjar’s background, while Trudeau alleges Indian involvement in Nijjar’s death.
• The video raises national security concerns and strains diplomatic relations with India.
• Calls for transparency and accountability are growing as Canadians seek answers about Nijjar’s activities and Canada’s policies on extremism.