Category: NATIONAL

Jan , 12

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested an individual for impersonating an official and issuing threats to agency investigators in connection with a ₹5,978-crore case, officials said. The accused allegedly posed as a senior authority figure and attempted to intimidate officers involved in the high-value financial probe.

According to the ED, the imposter made threatening communications aimed at obstructing the ongoing investigation and creating pressure on officers handling the case. Acting on technical surveillance and intelligence inputs, the agency identified the suspect and carried out the arrest to prevent further interference with the probe.

Officials said legal action has been initiated under relevant provisions for impersonation, criminal intimidation, and obstruction of justice. The ED reiterated that it would take strict action against any attempts to derail investigations, particularly in cases involving large-scale financial irregularities and public interest.

Bangalure,Jan 12

Bengaluru police have arrested an 18-year-old accused in connection with the murder of a software professional, officials said on Monday. Investigators revealed that after killing the techie, the accused allegedly set fire to the scene in an attempt to destroy evidence and mislead authorities.

According to the police, the victim was found dead under suspicious circumstances, initially believed to be an accident caused by a fire. However, a detailed forensic examination and technical analysis raised doubts, prompting a deeper investigation. During questioning, the accused reportedly confessed to the crime, leading police to uncover the sequence of events.

Officials said the motive behind the murder is still being investigated, while further probes are underway to determine whether others were involved. The police have assured a thorough investigation and stated that strong evidence has been collected to ensure the accused is prosecuted under relevant sections of law.

Delhi,Jan 12

The Delhi High Court has directed the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) to expeditiously decide the plea filed by Sameer Wankhede, an Indian Revenue Service officer, related to service and disciplinary matters. The court issued the direction while disposing of a petition seeking early adjudication of the case.

The High Court observed that prolonged pendency of the matter could have a bearing on the petitioner’s service career and therefore stressed the need for a timely decision. It asked the CAT to consider the issues raised and pass appropriate orders in accordance with law within a reasonable timeframe.

Sameer Wankhede had approached the tribunal challenging actions taken against him and seeking relief on service-related grounds. The High Court clarified that it has not expressed any opinion on the merits of the case, leaving all issues open for consideration by the CAT.

New Delhi, January 12:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the people on the occasion of Sankranti, highlighting the cultural significance of harvest festivals celebrated across India. In a message, he said such festivals strengthen social bonds and reflect the nation’s deep-rooted agricultural traditions.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the contribution of farmers to the country’s economy and food security. He expressed hope that the festival would bring prosperity, happiness and good health to all, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and rural development.

Visakhapatnam, January 12:
More than 26% of groundwater samples in Andhra Pradesh have been found to contain high Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) levels, according to the Annual Ground Water Report 2025 released by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. The findings indicate potential risks to soil quality, agriculture productivity and drinking water safety in several districts of the state.

The report also flagged concerns over nitrate, fluoride and uranium contamination in select regions, calling for urgent remedial measures. Experts recommended improved groundwater management, controlled fertiliser usage and expansion of water treatment facilities to mitigate health and environmental risks. State authorities said they are reviewing the findings and will implement necessary corrective steps.

Andhra Pradesh, January 12:
With the Sankranti festival approaching, travel rush intensified across Andhra Pradesh on Monday as thousands of people began returning to their native places. Major bus stations, including Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS) in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Guntur and Tirupati, witnessed heavy crowds, while national highways reported slow-moving traffic due to increased vehicular movement.

The APSRTC operated special bus services to manage the surge in passenger demand, particularly on long-distance and inter-district routes. Traffic police and transport officials were deployed at key junctions to regulate traffic and ensure passenger safety. Authorities advised travellers to plan their journeys in advance and follow safety guidelines during the festive season.

Vijayawada, January 12:
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday chaired a high-level review meeting with ministers, senior bureaucrats and district collectors to assess the progress of the state’s Vision 2047 roadmap and governance reforms. The meeting, held at the Secretariat, focused on improving administrative efficiency, accelerating economic growth and ensuring timely implementation of welfare and infrastructure projects across districts.

During the review, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of digital governance, revenue mobilisation and public-private partnerships. He directed officials to adopt technology-driven solutions, including WhatsApp-based citizen services, to reduce delays and improve transparency. Naidu also emphasised outcome-based governance and asked departments to submit district-wise performance reports to ensure accountability at all levels.

New Delhi, January 10:
Delhi Police on Saturday arrested three additional individuals in connection with the stone-pelting incident that occurred at Turkman Gate, bringing the total number of arrests in the case to 16. The police said the newly apprehended accused were involved in instigating the violence during the protest, which disrupted local traffic and caused minor injuries to some residents. Law enforcement authorities confirmed that all 16 accused are being questioned and further investigations are underway to identify other participants and understand the sequence of events that led to the clash.

Officials added that CCTV footage, eyewitness accounts, and forensic evidence are being used to build a strong case against the culprits. Delhi Police emphasized that maintaining law and order remains a top priority, especially in densely populated urban areas prone to communal tension. Senior officers also assured the public that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of creating unrest or endangering citizens, sending a strong message that violence during protests will not be tolerated. The authorities continue to monitor the area to prevent any recurrence of such incidents.

New Delhi, January 10:
Delhi experienced its coldest morning of the season on Friday as the minimum temperature dropped to 4.2 degrees Celsius, significantly below the normal average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A dense layer of cold air gripped the national capital, leading to shivering conditions across several parts of the city during the early hours.

The IMD said cold wave conditions prevailed in many areas, with fog also reducing visibility in some pockets. The sharp dip in temperature affected daily life, prompting people to stay indoors during the morning hours, while homeless shelters in the city reported increased occupancy. The weather department has forecast that cold conditions are likely to continue over the next few days, advising residents to take necessary precautions.

New Delhi, January 10:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also engaging with India’s youth leadership as part of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue (VBYLD) 2.0, scheduled from January 10 to 12. Modi expressed his eagerness to interact with emerging young leaders, innovators, and change-makers from across the country, focusing on topics such as ethical leadership, innovation, governance, and nation-building. Organisers said the event aims to motivate youth participation in public service and to encourage innovative solutions for societal challenges.

The dialogue aligns with National Youth Day celebrations and underscores the government’s emphasis on empowering the next generation. Modi’s engagement highlights the role of youth in shaping India’s future, including support for start-ups, skill development, and leadership opportunities in diverse sectors. Authorities expect the discussions to result in actionable ideas that contribute to inclusive growth and sustainable progress nationwide.