Mangaluru, May 14 (IANS) A Karnataka court has granted divorce to a man on grounds…

Bhopal/Raipur, May 14 (IANS) In a tragic incident, three children were struck by lightning in Kurudih village of Korba district of Chhattisgarh on Tuesday evening. They were near a pond when the lightning hit.

Among them, 14-year-old Manish Kashyap and 13-year-old Lokesh Kumar suffered severe burns. Both were rushed to the district hospital for treatment. One of the injured regained consciousness after a while, but the condition of the other two remains critical, police said.Meanwhile, the Chhattisgarh Meteorological Department has issued a three-day warning for storms and heavy rain across 31 districts, including Raipur, Durg, and Bilaspur. The weather in Chhattisgarh has once again taken a dramatic turn. On Tuesday afternoon, Raipur experienced rainfall accompanied by strong winds. Meanwhile, extreme weather conditions continued to impact central Indian states, including Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Since Tuesday morning, Raipur has been covered with clouds. The Weather Department predicted winds reaching speeds of 40-60 km per hour are expected in parts of the state, along with possible lightning strikes. These conditions are predicted to persist until May 15, after which temperatures may rise by 2-3°C. On Monday, Durg recorded the highest temperature at 42°C. According to the Meteorological Centre in Raipur, a trough line extending from Southwest Uttar Pradesh to Tamil Nadu, coupled with a western disturbance, has created strong rain systems, leading to thunderstorms and rainfall across Chhattisgarh. Meanwhile, the meteorological department in Madhya Pradesh has predicted rainfall or drizzle accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning across multiple districts, including Bhopal, Vidisha, Raisen, Sehore, Rajgarh, Narmadapuram, Betul, Harda, Burhanpur, Khandwa, Khargone, Barwani, Alirajpur, Jhabua, Dhar, Indore, Ratlam, Dewas, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Guna, Ashoknagar, Shivpuri, Gwalior, Datia, Bhind, Morena, and Sheopur. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 km per hour are expected at isolated locations in Bhopal, Vidisha, Raisen, Sehore, Rajgarh, Narmadapuram, Betul, Harda, Burhanpur, Khandwa, Khargone, Barwani, Alirajpur, Jhabua, Dhar, Indore, Ratlam, Dewas, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Guna, Ashoknagar, Shivpuri, Gwalior, Datia, Bhind, Morena, and Sheopurkalan. Similarly, isolated thunderstorms with lightning are predicted in districts such as Anuppur, Dindori, Jabalpur, Narsinghpur, Chhindwara, Seoni, Mandla, Balaghat, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, Niwari, and Pandhurna. –IANSsktr/dan

Bhopal, May 14 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Tribal Affairs Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah, whose remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi sparked a nationwide controversy, was summoned by state BJP chief V. D Sharma late evening on Tuesday.

After a closed-door meeting with Sharma, the minister issued a clarification saying that his remarks had been taken out of context and misunderstood.He also apologised, saying that Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has made the nation proud and he has great respect for her.”We respect the actions taken by the Indian forces in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. I have nothing to say on the wisdom of those who are twisting my remarks. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has made the nation proud. We respect both the sisters,” he said after meeting with state BJP chief V. D Sharma.Addressing a public gathering during a government function in Mhow (Indore district) on Monday, Shah praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in responding to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.However, while doing so, he made a comment that has drawn sharp criticism.Talking about Operation Sindoor, Shah said that PM Modi had sent a “sister from the same community” as those in Pakistan to avenge the April 22 terror strike in Kashmir’s Pahalgam.He further stated that, “PM Modi is striving for the society. Those who widowed our daughters (in Pahalgam), we sent a sister of their own to teach them a lesson.”Notably, the Indian Army officer had along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force, briefed the media throughout Operation Sindoor against Pakistan.The Opposition Congress reacted strongly. Sharing the video clip on the social media platform ‘X’, it accused Shah of calling Indian Army officers “sisters of terrorists,” a statement it said insults not just women in uniform but the entire armed forces.”The brave daughters of our army are sisters of terrorists. This disgusting utterance has been made by MP Minister Vijay Shah. This is an insult to our mighty army,” Patwari said while addressing a press conference at party headquarters in Bhopal.Patwari also demanded that Shah be sacked from the minister’s post.”If the Chief Minister fails to sack Shah, it will be seen as the state cabinet endorsing his indecent and communal remarks,” Patwari stated.Patwari also pointed out that this is the same Vijay Shah, who was removed from the Cabinet earlier for making lewd remarks on former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s wife, Sadhna Singh, in 2013.–IANSpd/dan

Hyderabad, May 13 (IANS) Miss World contestants from 109 countries were mesmerised by Hyderabad’s iconic monument, Charminar, as they participated in a Heritage Walk and went shopping for bangles and other ornaments in the famous Laad Bazaar. The participants in the ongoing 72nd Miss World pageant were welcomed with traditional Marfa music. Some contestants danced to the rhythm of Arabic Marfa instruments.All the contestants took part in a special photo shoot at the Charminar. The beauty queens greeted the public with warm gestures. They captured the splendour of Charminar on their mobile phones while participating in the grand Heritage Walk.The glamorous women went shopping for bangles, pearl necklaces, and other ornaments in the famous Laad Bazaar near Charminar. Some contestants personally observed the bangle-making process and appreciated the craftsmanship of the artisans.Traders in Laad Bazaar refused to take money from contestants for items purchased by them. Playing good hosts, the traders welcomed the guests with rose flowers and declined to accept payment for their shopping. The traders urged Miss World contestants to showcase the uniqueness of Hyderabad and the specialities of Charminar and Laad Bazaar in their respective countries.The contestants arrived at Charminar in special tourist buses and were given a red-carpet welcome by officials. A few contestants joined in the rhythmic beats with graceful dance moves, showcasing their appreciation for the local culture.Officials said that through this event, Hyderabad’s cultural heritage and elegance were showcased to the world.The contestants later attended the banquet hosted by the Telangana government at Chowmahalla Palace, which was once the seat of governance of the Nizams.Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, along with his family, ministers, public representatives, embassy officials from various countries, city dignitaries, and senior government officials, participated in the banquet.A short film titled ‘Chowmahalla Palace – Hyderabad Heritage’ was screened for the contestants. They went around the palace and also viewed a photo exhibition highlighting the rich history and culture of Hyderabad.They explored artefacts and military equipment from the Nizam era and learned about their unique features. Miss World Organisation Chairperson and CEO Julia Morley CBE, along with several contestants, shared their impressions during the banquet, expressing deep appreciation for the culture and traditions of Telangana, particularly those of Hyderabad.–IANSms/uk

New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has criticised Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah for making a “highly objectionable” comment about India’s senior and decorated Army officer, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.

Kharge, who is also the Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, addressed the matter on his X handle, stating that the minister had made “deeply offensive” and “inappropriate” comments about Colonel Qureshi.He wrote that a minister from the BJP-led government in Madhya Pradesh had made deeply offensive and inappropriate remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a courageous officer who has served the nation with honour. While the terrorists in Pahalgam sought to sow division, the country stood united during ‘Operation Sindoor,’ responding firmly and decisively to their threats.“The BJP-RSS leadership has consistently demonstrated a disregard for women,” Kharge wrote.“From social media attacks on the wife of a naval officer martyred in Pahalgam to the harassment of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s daughter, the pattern is troubling. Now, a minister has added to this distressing trend by making disrespectful remarks about Colonel Qureshi,” he further stated.He demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi take immediate action and remove the minister from office.During an event in Raikunda village, Ambedkar Nagar (Mhow), Indore, on Monday, Madhya Pradesh’s Tribal Welfare Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah courted controversy after making an offensive remark, claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had sent a “sister” of those who had widowed Indian women in the Pahalgam terror attack.His remark, which referenced the recent Indian military mission Operation Sindoor, drew applause from the audience.Following the viral spread of a video capturing his speech, Congress demanded action and his resignation from the BJP. His remarks attracted wide criticism from various sections of society.Madhya Pradesh Congress leader Jitu Patwari condemned Shah’s remarks and urged the BJP to clarify its position regarding the controversy. Patwari also shared a video of the minister’s speech on social media, calling for accountability.Patwari argued that Shah’s statement, which framed military decisions in a communal and gender-based narrative, could exacerbate tensions.His remarks have sparked concerns about the use of political rhetoric to justify acts of retaliation under the guise of governance, he stated.Commissioned in 1994 into the Army Signal Corps, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has served in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir and North-East India.–IANSsktr/dan

Kolkata, May 13 (IANS) The West Bengal Police, on Tuesday, told that they have arrested…

Jaipur, May 13 (IANS) In the wake of rising tensions along the India-Pakistan border and the launch of Operation Sindoor, the Rajasthan administration has imposed a complete ban on the use of Pakistani local SIM cards in Jaisalmer district, following a similar decision in Sriganganagar.

The step has been taken to curb potential security threats and prevent misuse by terrorist organisations. Jaisalmer district collector Pratap Singh stated that Pakistani SIM cards pose a significant risk, as they can be exploited by terror groups for communication and coordination. “In the interest of national security, the use of Pakistani SIM cards is now completely banned in Jaisalmer with immediate effect,” he said.Telecom service providers have been instructed to block Pakistani network signals in the border areas. The district administration has appealed to local residents, especially those living in border villages, to comply strictly with the order and to report any suspicious activity immediately. Authorities have assured that Indian telecom services will continue uninterrupted in the region. Security arrangements in the district remain robust. Border security forces are on high alert and fully prepared to handle any threat. Officials emphasised that this move is crucial for maintaining peace and ensuring public safety in sensitive border zones. India launched Operation Sindoor in retaliation for the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, resulting in the destruction of nine Pakistani terrorist camps.In response, Pakistan attempted drone and missile attacks across Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, all of which were successfully thwarted by the Indian military. Notably, several drone attacks in Jaisalmer were intercepted by India’s air defence systems, including the S-400 missile system. These incidents highlighted the urgency of tightening surveillance and communication controls in the border areas to preempt any further escalation. This ban on Pakistani SIM cards is a vital step in enhancing national security and securing India’s western frontier, said officials. –IANSarc/dan

Bhopal, May 13 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will visit Bengaluru on Wednesday to participate in a programme, the ‘Invest in MP’, his office said in a statement on Tuesday. The Chief Minister will visit the campus of BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited) and attend a programme, where he will address an interactive session with industrialists. Following a visit to the BEML shop floor, the Chief Minister will unveil the Metro coach and take part in a test ride.He will also tour the Integrated Design Centre and view a presentation on BEML’s proposed plant in Bhopal. During the event, land allotment documents for BEML’s upcoming unit in Madhya Pradesh will also be formally handed over, the government stated.Notably, BEML is a premier public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence. It is leading in manufacturing Metro rail coaches, defence equipment, and mining and construction machinery. Its Bengaluru-based manufacturing facility exemplifies modern engineering and indigenous technology, contributing significantly to the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).”The Chief Minister will engage with leading industrial groups, investors, and technology companies. Various state departments will deliver presentations on Madhya Pradesh’s industrial policies, infrastructure, and sector-wise investment opportunities,” it added. CM Yadav will hold one-on-one meetings with key investors from sectors such as IT, electronics, manufacturing, defence, automobiles, tourism, and technology to discuss investment opportunities directly.”This ongoing dialogue with major industrial groups is opening up new horizons for investment, where industries find a secure and dynamic platform supported by strong policies, resources, and governance,” the government said in the statement.–IANSpd/uk

Ahmedabad, May 13 (IANS) Ahmedabad City Police Commissioner G.S. Malik made it mandatory for all rickshaw drivers to install functional meters from January 1, 2025. However, despite clear orders and a grace period, enforcement has revealed widespread non-compliance. So far, the city’s traffic police have penalised 28,112 rickshaw drivers operating without meters, collecting a staggering Rs 1.56 crore in fines.

The crackdown follows mounting public complaints about rickshaw drivers allegedly charging inflated fares, especially during peak hours or in high-demand areas. Commissioner Malik said, “There were repeated complaints that rickshaw pullers were charging more than the standard fare. We had given them until January 1 to install meters. Now, if a rickshaw is found operating without a meter, a fine is issued. After the second violation, we will treat it as a permit breach, and the rickshaw will be detained.” The Commissioner further appealed to all rickshaw owners and drivers to comply with the regulation to avoid penalties and legal action. “During annual RTO renewals, meters are provided, but many drivers choose to leave them at home. This cannot continue,” he emphasised.The decision, officials say, was driven by concerns raised by daily commuters who often felt exploited by arbitrary fare demands. With the new rule in place, passengers are now expected to pay only the metered fare, helping standardise pricing across the city. Auto rickshaws are a crucial part of Gujarat’s urban transport network, serving as an affordable and accessible mode of travel for millions of people daily.According to the Gujarat RTO data, there are over 3.5 lakh registered auto rickshaws across the state, with the highest concentration in cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot. These three-wheelers play a significant role in local mobility, especially for last-mile connectivity in congested city areas and rural outskirts.–IANSjanvi/dan

Jaipur, May 13 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma emphasised that investment promotion is the cornerstone of the state government’s development strategy, and the timely fulfilment of MoUs signed during the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit is crucial to achieving the goal of making Rajasthan a $350 billion economy by 2030.

Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Chief Minister’s Office on Tuesday, Sharma stated that MoUs worth approximately Rs 37 lakh crore were signed at the summit, of which projects worth Rs 3 lakh crore have already been implemented on the ground.”These investments are accelerating the pace of industrial development and opening up ample employment opportunities for the youth,” he said.The Chief Minister directed officials to maintain constant communication with investors and prioritise the implementation of MoUs across sectors such as tourism, medical education, healthcare, textiles, apparel, automobiles, and electric vehicles (EVs).He instructed district collectors to facilitate expeditious land allocation for proposed projects and conduct on-site inspections with investors to showcase available land options.To enhance coordination and accelerate progress, Sharma ordered the appointment of nodal officers in each department to oversee and monitor the implementation of MoUs.“These officers should act swiftly, conduct regular reviews, and address technical issues to ensure smooth execution,” he said.He also called upon investors to honour their commitments and complete projects within the stipulated timelines. Highlighting the potential of the tourism sector, the Chief Minister said the recently launched Tourism Policy will provide the necessary thrust to the state’s economy and promote the comprehensive development of tourist destinations.“Rajasthan is now a global tourism hub, with growing opportunities in eco, rural, heritage, adventure, and religious tourism,” he said, adding that the government is committed to generating new employment opportunities through tourism expansion.Speaking on the healthcare sector, Sharma reiterated the government’s focus on strengthening quality health services from rural hamlets to urban centres. He said that new medical colleges and hospitals being established under the MoUs will bolster the state’s medical infrastructure.“There is a growing demand for skilled medical professionals across India and globally, offering golden career opportunities for youth,” he noted.While reviewing the EV and automobile sectors, the Chief Minister pointed out the increasing relevance of electric mobility in view of limited natural resources.He assured that investor concerns are being addressed through the single-window system and that the government is fully committed to providing a conducive environment for industrial growth.The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant, senior officials from various departments, and key investors. District collectors from across the state joined the review meeting via video conferencing–IANSarc/dan