Srinagar: Authorities in the Badhaal village of Rajouri district suspect organophosphorus poisoning as the cause of 17 mysterious deaths reported over the last two months.
No new cases have emerged in the past five days, signaling a stabilizing situation. Officials confirmed that three siblings undergoing treatment at GMC Jammu and SMGS Srinagar have been discharged and returned home under observation, along with their families and close contacts.
Another patient, Aijaz Ahmad, receiving treatment at PGI Chandigarh, is also recovering, while other patients admitted to GMC Rajouri have shown significant improvement.
Doctors suspect organophosphorus poisoning after patients responded positively to atropine injections, commonly used as an antidote for such poisoning.
“Atropine was initially given to two patients to manage their heart rates, and they showed marked improvement, pointing us toward organophosphorus poisoning as a possible cause,” a senior doctor said.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to confirm the cause of the deaths.
While several of INDI bloc alliance partners are taking a dip in the sangam during the ongoing Kumbh festivities, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has seemingly put his allies and even his party leaders in a bind. Kharge on Monday asked if taking a dip in the Ganga could end poverty.
“Don’t fall into the trap of false promises of (Narendra) Modi. Is poverty ended by taking a dip in the Ganga? Does it fill your stomach? I don’t want to question anyone’s ‘aastha (faith)’. If anyone feels bad, I apologise,” Kharge said.
However, the statement by the Congress chief again illustrates a complete lack of coordination and clarity on important political subjects between various alliance partners of the INDI bloc.
The Samajwadi Party, which feels confident about taking on Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh, after its best ever performance in recent Lok Sabha polls, has been trying to warm up to the Hindu voters. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav took a holy dip in Prayagraj this week, in an apparent bid to reach out to the majority community. This comes even as Akhilesh Yadav-led party wants to repeat this victory in the Milkipur bypoll, which is scheduled for February 5.
However, Kharge’s comments have created an embarrassing situation for its partner, as this could hurt the SP’s outreach plan towards the majority community.
The Congress chief’s comments also highlight the total disconnect that the top leadership of the grand old party has with the grassroots.
Kharge even accused the Bharatiya Janata Party leaders of competing against each other to take a dip for the cameras at the ongoing Mahakumbh in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj. However, acknowledging the religious and sentimental significance of Kumbh, Congress leaders from its Uttar Pradesh unit like Pramod Tiwari have been going to Prayagraj for participating in religious rituals.
The grand old party could have taken a feedback from its UP unit and tried to reach out to Hindu voters in the state.
In fact, many in the party feel that senior leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra should have been roped in to visit Prayagraj during the important ritualistic period.
Many in Congress feel repeated statements can be interpreted as anti-majority community and the senior leadership should avoid making such controversial remarks, sources said.
The BJP has also not lost the opportunity to bring Kharge’s comments to the notice of voters, while attempting to reinforce the perception being built that the grand old party was anti majority community and was only interested in appeasing minorities.
BJP MP Sambit Patra slammed Kharge for his remark, saying,”Rahul Gandhi and Congress should explain as to why they have such an ‘anti-Sanatan’ ideology. This isn’t the first time that Mallikarjun Kharge said something against Sanatan.
“Earlier, he had said that he would end ‘Sanatan’ if they come to power. Rahul Gandhi can go and take a dip in Italy, we have no objections. But using such words against Maa Ganga is not right,” Patra as said.
New Delhi : Leaders of direct selling took a significant step towards addressing critical challenges confronting the industry by committing to a unified effort to enhance its reputation.
During a meeting convened by the Indian Direct Selling Association (IDSA) on Wednesday, CEOs from leading companies such as Oriflame, Modicare, Herbalife, Amway, Unicity, 4Life, PM International, Atomy, Modere, and Usana unanimously resolved to collaborate on key issues affecting the sector with a focus on reputation building, ethical practices, and empowerment.
The leaders identified the pressing need to combat the adverse effects of fraudulent operators who tarnish the industry’s image through Ponzi and pyramid schemes. Such activities not only erode consumer trust but also harm legitimate businesses. To counter this, the industry leaders pledged to work collectively to promote transparency, safeguard consumer interests, and foster a trustworthy environment for direct selling, the IDSA release said.
The council outlined strategies to strengthen the brand image of the direct selling sector through public awareness initiatives and collaborations with the government, develop robust AI and digital guidelines, ensure technological advancements become vital tools for growth, and protect the livelihoods of direct sellers by creating policies that foster fairness and opportunity. With regards to reputation building, it was agreed to implement robust measures to distance the industry from unethical operators and launch campaigns to educate the public about legitimate direct selling practices and the value the industry offers.
The meeting was of the view of upholding high product quality and transparency about ingredients and benefits, providing comprehensive training to distributors to ensure responsible and ethical business operations, strengthening adherence to legal frameworks and regulatory standards, and enhancing consumer protection mechanisms to build trust and credibility.
Speaking on the occasion, Vivek Katoch, Chairperson of the IDSA, stated, “This meeting marks a turning point for the direct selling industry in India. By uniting to tackle challenges and emphasizing reputation building, we are ensuring a sustainable future for the sector. Our collective efforts will empower millions of individuals, especially women, and reinforce consumer trust and elevate the industry to greater heights.”
According to the release, India’s direct selling industry, ranking 11th globally, is growing with over 12% and is valued at Rs 21,282 crore. It has been a significant contributor to the Indian economy and a platform for entrepreneurship. By addressing challenges head-on, the industry aims to restore its reputation and realize its potential as a driver of inclusive growth.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and senior leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam is hopeful of clinching the Karol Bagh seat in the upcoming Delhi assembly elections due on February 5 and says that the campaign he is holding is of the people who want proper resources to improve their living standard.
Speaking to Tehelka.com during the door to door campaign Gautam said, “The people have been suffering for 12 years and this campaign is of people of Delhi who are fighting against corruption, poor education and other issues. We are ready to compete and people also want change in Karol Bagh.”
Speaking on changes he said that BJP is ruling in 18 states and these states are examples of our work.
“We don’t need to say anything about the change which we will bring if we come to power. We have a government in 18 states. We will provide Rs 2100 to women and Rs 21000 to the pregnant women so they get nutrition. It is not just monetary benefit but with good nutrition, we will get a good citizen in our country,” he said.
He took a jibe at former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and said that when people needed proper medical treatment during COVID-19, he was busy making his ‘Sheeshmahal’.
“We will provide Rs 10 Ayushman Card through which people will be able to get free medical treatment in private hospitals. This scheme has been suppressed by him and when people needed it the most during COVID-19, he was busy building his sheeshmahal,” he said.
Speaking on air pollution in the national capital, he said that we have always said that we want to make Delhi pollution free.
“We don’t have a manifesto. We have sankalp and we fulfill every promise we make. We will make Delhi pollution free. We aim to provide every facility to the people of Delhi,” he said.
Making a blistering attack on AAP and Congress that these parties are the kingpin of ‘Tukde Tukde gang’.“In order to make India strong, we need to build its people stronger but these two parties AAP and Congress do not care about it. They are the owners of tukde tukde gang. The terrorism increases when they are in power,” he added.
Tilak Nagar, which was one of the strongholds of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has seen three terms under Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) which makes it very crucial for both the parties this time. Following this, AAP candidate from Tilak Nagar assembly constituency, Jarnail Singh, has embarked on an extensive door-to-door campaign as part of his bid to secure another term in office.
The campaign, which has seen Singh interact directly with the residents of Tilak Nagar and Mahaveer Nagar has garnered positive feedback from locals, who have expressed appreciation for his work as well as their hopes for continued development.
Singh, who previously served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), is known for his active involvement in the community. On the ground, Singh has been seen visiting homes, engaging with residents, and discussing their concerns.
He is focusing his campaign on issues such as better healthcare facilities, improved infrastructure, and enhanced educational opportunities for local children.
“BJP is ruling in almost 20 states. If they knew how to build they would. Were they able to provide education like Delhi, in Haryana? They were not able to give free healthcare clinics in UP and no state has free bus service for women. Everyone knows that if BJP comes into power in Delhi, the educational institute will as they are in UP and Bihar,” Singh said.
Meanwhile residents of Tilak Nagar are appreciating his approach. “He has always been accessible to the people. Whether it was fixing a street light or resolving a water issue, he has been responsive. I trust him to continue working for the welfare of this area,” a local resident, Rajinder Kaur said.
Another resident, Gurpreet Singh, emphasized the improvements under Singh’s leadership. “The roads are better, schools are being renovated, and health services have improved. He has worked hard for the people, and we are hopeful that he will keep up the good work.”
Not just AAP, the BJP is also holding campaigns in this assembly constituency which makes Singh aware of the challenges ahead. He is focused on highlighting AAP’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The 70-member Legislative Assembly in Delhi is scheduled to go for polls on February 5, 2025. Besides the ruling AAP, the BJP and the Congress are the main contenders. Over the years, AAP has seen a decline in winning seats in 2020 as compared to 2015. The party won 67 seats in Delhi for the year 2015 and 62 in 2020.
As the Delhi assembly elections draw near, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has unveiled its latest set of promises, reiterating its faith in offering freebies towards garnering of votes.
According to newly released guarantee card, the party has laid out 15 additional guarantees, including a monthly monetary benefit of Rs 2100 for every woman under the Mahila Samman Yojana, free medical services for citizens above 60 years at both government and private hospitals under the Sanjeevani Yojana, and financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh for the wedding of auto drivers’ daughters, along with free coaching for their children.
Furthermore, AAP plans to focus on addressing unemployment while ensuring that its existing programmes, such as free electricity, free pilgrimage services, free bus travel for women, and free treatment at Mohalla Clinics, remain in place.
Photo : Naveen Bansal
The party promises Rs 10 lakh life insurance and Rs 5 lakh accident insurance for auto and e-rickshaw drivers, along with a Rs 18,000 allowance for Pujaris and Granthis under a new scheme.
The party also guarantees a waiver of inflated water bills, 24×7 access to clean drinking water in every household, a cleaner Yamuna, roads built to European standards, and scholarships under the Dr. Ambedkar Scholarship Yojana. Other pledges include free bus travel for all students, a 50 per cent concession on metro fares, and the replacement of old and blocked sewage lines.
“The Delhi govt will open the window to get new ration cards, and RWAs to be given special funds to appoint and maintain independent security guards,” the guarantee card reads.
The 70-member Legislative Assembly in Delhi is scheduled to go for polls on February 5, 2025. Besides the ruling AAP, the BJP and the Congress are the main contenders. Over the years, AAP has seen a decline in winning seats in 2020 as compared to 2015. The party won 67 seats in Delhi for the year 2015 and 62 in 2020.
New Delhi : Ahead of visiting Prayagraj on Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Maha Kumbh is a unique symbol of the uninterrupted flow of Sanatan culture and he was eager to take a dip in the confluence and seek the blessings.
The Union Minister is set to attend the Maha Kumbh, where he will take a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
In a post on X, Amit Shah wrote (in Hindi), “Mahakumbh is a unique symbol of the uninterrupted flow of Sanatan culture. Kumbh reflects our eternal philosophy of life based on harmony. Today, I am eager to take a dip in the confluence and seek the blessings of the saints in this great festival of unity and integrity in the holy city of Prayagraj.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will accompany the Home Minister during this significant event.
HM Shah will perform the ritual bath on the 15th day of the Maha Kumbh.
As per the schedule, Amit Shah will arrive at Bamrauli Airport at 11.25 a.m. He will then proceed to the DPS helipad by helicopter at 11.50 a.m. and reach Arail Ghat at noon. From there, he will board a boat to the VIP Jetty, arriving at 12.15 p.m.
Speaking during his recent visit to Gujarat, Shah highlighted the cultural significance of Maha Kumbh, urging everyone to attend this event, which occurs once every 144 years.
“Kumbh gives the message of harmony and unity. It does not ask which religion, sect, or caste you belong to. Food is available without discrimination. No event in the world conveys a stronger message of unity than Maha Kumbh, ” he had said.
The Home Minister also encouraged the youth of Gujarat to experience the Maha Kumbh, sharing that he has visited Kumbh nine times in his life and has also witnessed the Ardh Kumbh.
Meanwhile, in the fair area, a Dharma Sansad will be organised to unite Sanatanis across the country. The Virat Sanatan Dharma Sansad will take place at the Shanti Seva Camp in Sector 17, led by spiritual guru Devkinandan Thakur. The assembly will feature participation from Shankaracharyas, heads of 13 Akharas, and sadhus and saints from across the nation.
The Dharma Sansad aims to foster unity among followers of Sanatan Dharma. The Maha Kumbh, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, commenced on January 13 with the ‘Pavitra Snan’ and celebrated its second day on Makar Sankranti, coinciding with the ‘Amrit Snan.’
The festival will conclude on February 26, Maha Shivratri. Upcoming sacred bathing dates include January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), February 3 (Basant Panchami), February 12 (Magh Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivratri).
Despite the harsh winter, thousands of devotees have been thronging the Triveni Sangam to partake in this sacred tradition. As of now, over 10 crore devotees have taken the holy dip in the Triveni Sangam, marking an unprecedented turnout at the Maha Kumbh.
The Congress is seemingly in no mood to give its INDI bloc ally, the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party, a walkover in the forthcoming Delhi Legislative Assembly polls. This comes after the two allies exchanged barbs over alleged corruption and electoral malpractices against each other in collision with Bharatiya Janata Party.
With the campaign for the 70 member House set to enter its final phase, the top leader of Congress and leader of opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi is set to hold extensive rallies and public contact programs over this week.
Sources stated the senior Congress leader is expected to concentrate his campaign in constituencies with a high number of minority voters to seriously dent the prospects of AAP candidates in these areas. “Rahul is likely to address rallies and hold public contact programs in Patparganj, Okhla and Burari Assembly constituencies over this week,” sources said.
Over the past few weeks, there has been muted criticism of the party high command after its less than enthusiastic participation in the ongoing electoral campaign. However, with Rahul likely to participate in several of these electioneering events over the next few days, the party cadre and local leadership will soon be filled with enthusiasm and much-needed morale upliftment ahead of the crucial polls.
It is learnt that the Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee has also sought time from party General Secretary and Wayanad Member of Parliament Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to hold some campaign programs in the national capital.
The party feels that if both Gandhi siblings campaign for Congress candidates, the grand old party may get positive results in several Assembly seats. The party feels that the two leaders have a reach amongst the youth, women and minority voters, which are also the core voters of the AAP and could be effective in changing the political prospects of the party in the city.
The activeness of senior Congress leaders would ensure re-energization of the grand old party’s campaign which was till now being kept alive by individual candidates like Sandeep Dikshit, Alka Lamba and others.
By fielding strong candidates and pulling in national leaders for campaigning, Congress has sent a clear message in Delhi Assembly elections that it wants to reclaim its piece of political legacy in the national capital, which it had ruled through stalwart leader Sheila Dikshit for 15 years. The aggressive campaign mode shows the seriousness of the grand old party to reclaim power in the national capital and take back its vote share from the AAP, which had displaced it from power.
The 70-member Delhi Assembly is scheduled to go for polls on February 5 and the results will be announced on February 8.
Jammu: Army troops exchanged fire with suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district early Saturday morning. The incident occurred after an alert sentry post at a temporary Army camp in Batod panchayat detected suspicious movement around 1:20 am.
The sentry fired on the suspects, and the terrorists returned fire, leading to an intermittent exchange of fire that lasted for about half an hour. No casualties were reported on either side, and the three suspected terrorists reportedly fled into a nearby forest.
In response, the Army has initiated a cordon-and-search operation to locate the terrorists. Authorities have stated that further details are awaited.
As the Delhi Assembly elections draw closer, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate senior leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam has ramped up his campaign efforts in the Karol Bagh constituency.
During his door-to-door outreach in Bapa Nagar on Saturday, Gautam met residents to address their civic issues. The residents welcomed him with warm greetings, offering him garlands and voicing their concerns about local issues.
Gautam, a seasoned politician and BJP’s national general secretary, is one of the party’s most prominent faces contesting in the upcoming elections. His campaign strategy focuses on direct engagement with voters, addressing their grievances, and reinforcing BJP’s development agenda.
During his interactions with residents, Gautam highlighted key issues such as deteriorating infrastructure, water contamination, and pollution—problems that have long plagued the constituency.
He assured voters that under BJP’s governance, these concerns would be addressed with a comprehensive development plan aimed at improving living standards.
Photo : Priyanka Tanwer
“It’s has been 12 years and the state of the area has not improved. Condition of education and healthcare has not improved; many schools have been closed. We have seen AAP Govt for 12 years and prior to that we saw Congress, none of them did anything for the people. Our party is committed to ensuring that the needs of every resident are met efficiently,” Gautam told Tehelka.com
BJP leaders and party workers have rallied behind Gautam, emphasizing his track record and experience as a leader.
Gautam also criticized the ruling party in Delhi, accusing them of failing to implement central government welfare schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, which provides health coverage to millions across the country.
Meanwhile, the political atmosphere in Karol Bagh remains charged as residents evaluate their options ahead of the February 5 elections. With Gautam’s proactive outreach and BJP’s aggressive push for voter engagement, the party hopes to secure a decisive win in the constituency.
“There is a strong competition here this time. It is possible that BJP would win from Karol Bagh constituency,” a resident said.
People in the area have different opinions regarding the political parties, some of them are blaming the Opposition and praising the ruling party while some think that a good candidate should win irrespective of the party.
“Nobody is talking about the air pollution which is the main issue in Delhi, I bought this car and now I want to sell it as it is very difficult to move during winters as restrictions are implemented. I want a deserving and educated candidate to win this time so that we can at least ask them logical questions. No matter which party comes, the work should be done. We are not after freebies. We pay taxes, we need an improved living standard,” another resident said. The Delhi Assembly elections will be held in a single phase on February 5, with the results slated for February 8. As the campaign momentum builds, all eyes remain on whether Gautam’s grassroots connect and promises of development will translate into electoral success.
