Thursday, December 25, 2025

Gurgaon may get a Convention Centre

By
Charanjit Ahuja
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Picture courtesy PIB

Union Minister for Housing, Urban Affairs, and Energy, Manohar Lal, stated today that while there are several large convention centers in the National Capital Region, there is also a need for a convention center in Gurugram, one of the major cities.

The Union Minister will hold discussions with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini soon to work towards the establishment of a modern convention center equipped with advanced facilities in the city.

He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the 18th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition, a three-day event, in Gurugram on Friday. He also inaugurated and observed an exhibition showcasing urban development and mobility. The objective of the 18th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition is to provide better transportation systems and services with the theme of “Easy Mode of Traveling” to maintain convenience in urban areas.

Manohar Lal made three major announcements focusing on the development of better infrastructure and public convenience through his ministry. He mentioned that these initiatives would mark the beginning of a new phase of development. He announced the establishment of the Delhi Metro International Limited (DMIL), which will work on metro expansion in India as well as other countries. He also announced the development of a Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) with collaboration from DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation). This system will ensure better integration between metro lines, providing safe and secure public transportation services with safety and cybersecurity measures in place. Furthermore, the Ministry of Urban Affairs will establish the Delhi Metro Rail Academy to bring quality improvements and new innovations to metro services. The academy will accelerate capacity building and, with the help of a Center of Excellence, will guide innovation in metro service operations.

He emphasized that while several large convention centers exist in the National Capital, Gurugram—one of the major cities—also requires a convention center. He assured that, after discussions with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, steps would be taken to build a state-of-the-art convention center in Gurugram.

Lal further stated that under the capable leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is progressing towards self-reliance. He mentioned that the country, by linking its transport networks and adhering to the “Make in India” initiative, is poised to become a developed nation by 2047. He also highlighted the government’s focus on transforming urban transportation systems. India is currently ranked third in the world in providing metro services and is expected to surpass the U.S. within the next three years to become a global leader. The central government is working towards offering public services with new technology, and through such conferences, collaboration with experts will help foster innovation.

Bihar Polls: Many in fray have serious criminal cases against them

By
Charanjit Ahuja
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The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Bihar Election Watch have analysed the self-sworn affidavits of 1,297 out of 1,302 candidates contesting in the Bihar Assembly Elections Phase II. According to the report, out of 1,297 candidates analysed, 415 (32%) have declared criminal cases against themselves.

The ADR has observed that it seems that the directions of the Supreme Court have not affected the political parties in the selection of candidates in the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025, Phase II, as they have again followed their old practice of giving tickets to around 32% candidates with criminal cases. All major parties contesting in the Bihar Elections Phase 2 have given tickets to 19 % to 100 % candidates who have declared criminal cases against themselves.

The Supreme Court in its directions of February 13, 2020, had specifically instructed political parties to give reasons for such selection and why other individuals without criminal antecedents could not be selected as candidates. As per these mandatory guidelines, the reasons for such selection have to be with reference to qualifications, achievements, and merit of the candidate concerned. During the recent Delhi Assembly elections held in February 2025, it was observed that political parties gave unfounded reasons like the popularity of the person, doing good social work, cases being politically motivated, etc. These are not sound and cogent reasons for fielding candidates with tainted backgrounds. This data clearly shows that political parties have no interest in reforming the electoral system, and our democracy will continue to suffer at the hands of lawbreakers who become lawmakers.

As many as 341(26%) have declared serious criminal cases against themselves, while 19 candidates have declared cases of murder (IPC Section-302, 303) and (BNS Section-103(1)). 79 candidates have declared cases of attempt to murder (IPC Section-307) and (BNS Section-109). As far as candidates with cases related to crimes against women are concerned. As many as 52 candidates have declared cases related to crimes against women. Out of 52 candidates, three have declared cases related to rape (IPC Section 375 and 376).

Party-wise candidates with criminal cases show that all major parties have given tickets to persons with shady credentials. Among the major parties,58(50%) out of 117 candidates analysed from Jan Suraaj Party, 17(19%) out of 91 candidates analysed from BSP, 38 (54%) out of 70 candidates analysed from RJD, 30 (57%) out of 53 candidates analysed from BJP, 14(32%) out of 44 candidates analysed from JD(U), 12(31%) out of 39 candidates analysed from AAP, 25(68%) out of 37 candidates analysed from INC, 9(60%) out of 15 candidates analysed from Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), 5(83%) out of 6 candidates analysed from CPI(ML)(L), 2(50%) out of 4 candidates analysed from CPI and 1 (100%) out of 1 candidate analysed from CPI(M) have declared criminal cases against themselves in their affidavits.

Among the major parties, 51(44%) out of 117 candidates analysed from Jan Suraaj Party, 12(13%) out of 91 candidates analysed from BSP, 27 (39%) out of 70 candidates analysed from RJD, 22 (42%) out of 53 candidates analysed from BJP, 11(25%) out of 44 candidates analysed from JD(U), 12(31%) out of 39 candidates analysed from AAP, 20(54%) out of 37 candidates analysed from INC, 9(60%) out of 15 candidates analysed from Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), 4(67%) out of 6 candidates analysed from CPI(ML)(L), 2(50%) out of 4 candidates analysed from CPI and 1 (100%) out of 1 candidate analysed from CPI(M) have declared serious criminal cases against themselves in their affidavits. About 73(60%) out of 122 constituencies are red alert constituencies. Red alert constituencies are those where 3 or more contesting candidates have declared criminal cases against themselves.

GB Realty Unveils ‘Opus One’ – ‘Iconic Certified’ Ultra-Luxury Residential Towers Project

By
Charanjit Ahuja
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A new chapter in Punjab’s architectural and real estate landscape has begun with the unveiling of ‘Opus One’, planned by Chandigarh region’s fast-growing real estate organisation – GB Realty. The project is GB Realty’s ‘magnum opus’ of extraordinary living.

The ultra-luxury residential development, which was formally announced at a press conference here, is New Chandigarh’s first RERA-approved ‘Iconic Certified’ residential complex. This recognition celebrates its innovative design, eco-conscious construction, and environmental responsibility, representing the very best in modern, responsible living.

Set to rise majestically in Ecocity II, New Chandigarh, ‘Opus One’ is aimed as a landmark project that seamlessly integrates global design expertise, sustainable architecture, and timeless luxury.

Sharing the inspiration behind this landmark initiative, Gurinder Bhatti, Founder and Chairman, GB Realty, said: “’ Opus One’ is a dream born from my deep connection with Punjab, as he hails from the holy city of Amritsar. Gurinder Bhatti was joined by Rajesh Mittal, MD Suryacon & Rohit Sethi, Director (Operations), GB Realty at the press conference.

Bhatti told media persons that ‘Opus One’, has been conceptualized as the tallest residential development in the region, which will comprise 11 towers soaring up to 32 floors. It will have around 688 ultra-luxury dwelling units. The 3 BHK residences will be of 3,000 sq ft, 4 BHK of 4,500 sq ft, and 5 BHK residences of 5,500 sq ft. Each tower will house five elevators, including private lifts opening into individual foyers, underscoring the project’s bespoke luxury experience.

The upcoming project has already been recognized by the Government of Punjab and honoured with an Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Certification. What’s more, setting a new benchmark in sustainable luxury, ‘Opus One’ has also achieved the prestigious Platinum Rating. The ‘Opus One’, spread across a sprawling expanse, will devote 79% of its area to open green landscapes, while only 21% will be built-up, creating unmatched residences in the lap of natural surroundings. The lush outdoor environment is being sculpted by PLA, Thailand, and the design features tranquil water bodies, sculpted dunes et al.

The principal architect, Tripat Girdhar of Arete Design Studio, has envisioned the project as a modern-day sculpture. Each tower is designed with a ‘Dual Core’ layout, featuring just two apartments per floor, offering residents unparalleled privacy, exclusivity, and panoramic views of the Shivalik Hills and surrounding forest belts.

Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), Singapore, renowned for designing some of the world’s most iconic hospitality spaces, including The Ritz-Carlton, among others, brings its mastery of form and emotion to “Opus One’s” interiors. Similarly, Australian Lighting Design Partnership (ALDP), known for illuminating landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, also brings in its expertise.

High stakes, high hopes: political tension mounts as Bihar gears up for decisive first phase

By
Vibha Sharma
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Undercurrent and outcome of this phase could set the tone for the rest of the election

File Photo

As Bihar gears up for the crucial first phase of its Assembly elections, political tension is mounting across the state. On Thursday, voters in 121 constituencies spread over 18 districts will decide the future of as many as 1,314 candidates, which includes a significant number of high-profile leaders. Among them are 16 key ministers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s administration, each hoping to secure another term amidst rising political stakes.

This electoral contest is viewed as a litmus test for the present state government’s reputation and performance. Of the 16 cabinet members contesting, 11 hail from the BJP and five from the JD(U) quota. Their fate may well be interpreted by supporters and critics alike as a direct reflection of the government’s recent track record and organizational power.

The campaign period for this round concluded late on Tuesday. In its final moments, major parties pulled out all stops to energize their supporters. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, who is also the chief ministerial candidate for the Mahagathbandhan alliance, led rallies focusing on key issues such as employment and development. In Tarapur (Munger), Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary (BJP) faces RJD’s Arun Kumar. Raghopur—a traditional RJD bastion—will witness Tejashwi defending against BJP’s Satish Kumar Yadav and Jan Suraaj’s Chanchal Singh. Tejaswhwi’s brother, Tej Pratap Yadav, chief of the Janshakti Janata Dal, is also contesting and faces the challenge of holding onto his seat amidst tough competition.

The second phase will be held on November 11, followed by the much-anticipated counting of votes on November 14.

The undercurrent and outcome of this phase could set the tone for the rest of the election, not just for the individual ministers involved, but for the alliances they represent. Political analysts believe the electoral performance of these ministers will send a strong message about public confidence in Nitish Kumar’s regime, the efficiency of governance, and the overall appeal of the NDA and Mahagathbandhan alliances.

Officials have made careful arrangements to ensure smooth and fair proceedings. Special measures are in place in sensitive constituencies, with polling times adjusted accordingly for safety. In addition to the big names, the ballot features a diverse field of candidates, including women and representatives from different communities, reflecting the state’s social breadth. With political heavyweights and newcomers alike vying for attention, the election outcome remains uncertain.

Criminals Beware, ‘Operation Track Down’ Launched!

By
Charanjit Ahuja
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Criminals beware, “Operation Track-down” has been launched to nab offenders in coordination with police from the states of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Delhi, and Chandigarh!

The Haryana Police has launched this “Operation Track-down” across the state from November 5–20, 2025. The objective is clear: identify and quickly jail fugitives involved in the shootings, preventing further crime. The order clearly outlines responsibilities, timelines, and procedures. IG Crime Rakesh Arya will coordinate this operation. Citizens can contact him directly on his mobile number +91 90342 90495. Identities will be kept confidential.

According to the order, identify those who have not been identified. Those who have been identified but are absconding are found even from the underworld and are arrested them. Open the history sheets of those accused who are out on bail. If they are again active in crime, take action to cancel their bail. Where crime is being committed in a planned manner, impose strict sections of organized crime. Identify and confiscate the property earned through crime. Take strict legal action against those who are giving shelter, protection or funding to such criminals.

Accountability is clear. The SHO and DSP will be directly responsible for preventing such incidents in their respective areas. Each police station/subdivision will compile a list of its own “5 most notorious” criminals and send them to jail through arrest, surrender, or bail cancellation. Similarly, each district and zone will compile a list of the “10 most notorious.” The SP/DCP/CP will be responsible for the results. At the state level, the Special Task Force (STF) will compile a list of the “20 most notorious” criminals and launch a massive operation to apprehend them.

The order also states that it is essential to prevent these listed offenders from committing further crimes and to hold them accountable for past offenses. If they commit further crimes, the relevant authorities will be held responsible. This means that the emphasis is not just on arrest, but on prevention and strong legal action, both equally.


Work will be done in collaboration with neighbouring states. In coordination with Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and the Union Territories of Delhi and Chandigarh, checking, joint operations, and custody transfers will be intensified in border areas. The goal is to prevent fugitive criminals from escaping by changing states.

The language and methodology of this operation are simple. The focus is not on showmanship, but on results—how many arrests were made, in which cases bail was revoked, where organized crime charges were imposed, how much property was seized, and whether new crimes were prevented. Sharing the IG Crime number with citizens signals that the police value information and ensure the confidentiality of identities.

The “Most Notorious 5/10/20” list isn’t just a piece of paper, but a tool for prioritizing. It will focus resources and time on where the risk is greatest. Police stations will need to work together on all three fronts: identification, search, and arrest. CCTV footage, call detail records, local intelligence, and monitoring of transit points will aid in identification. To cancel bail, one must approach the court with documents and evidence of recent activities. Where networks and funding are identified, organized crime charges will be invoked, and assets will be seized to break the power to commit crimes again.



This is also a clear indication that accountability is being assigned by name at every level—who is on the “Most Infamous 5” list in which SHO/DSP’s area, what is the status of the “Most Infamous 10” in the district/zone, what progress has the STF made on the “Most Infamous 20.” Success will be measured by indicators such as arrests in 16 days, petitions filed in court, warrant executions, and coordinated action at borders.

The hashtags used at the end of the operation—#HotOnYourTrail, #NoPlaceToHide, #OperationTrackdown, #kanoon_karega_apna_kaam—are both a warning to fugitives and a reassurance to the public that the law will do its job, in time and with evidence.

For now, the direction is clear: identification and arrest of the “most notorious” criminals, legal crackdown on their networks, swift action in collaboration with neighbouring states, and safe use of information from citizens.

Devotees from different states reaching Shri Kapal Mochan fair

By
Charanjit Ahuja
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In India, the land of sages, saints, prophets and ascetics, festivals and fairs hold special significance. The religious and historical Shri Kapal Mochan-Shri Adi Badri Fair, held for five days on the occasion of Kartik Purnima every year in Bilaspur, Yamunanagar district, the place of work of Maharishi Ved Vyas, is a unique fair attended by pilgrims and devotees of all religions. This promotes brotherhood and goodwill among people.

A government spokesperson, providing information in this regard, stated that devotees from various states across the country, including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, come to the Shri Kapal Mochan Fair every year. Kapal Mochan means the absolution of sins. Extensive arrangements have been made for the devotees by the Shri Kapal Mochan, Shri Badri Narayan, Shri Mata Mantra Devi, and Shri Kedarnath Temple Religious and Worship Boards and the district administration, which are truly commendable.

It is believed that Lord Shri Ramchandra Ji, Shri Krishna Ji, Shiv Mahadev Ji, as well as Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji visited this land. This land is called the place of work of Maharishi Ved Vyas because this place was known as the place of penance of sages and saints. It was here that Lord Brahma, Vishnu,a nd Mahesh performed a yagya. According to the scriptures, the origin of Saraswati is also the Adi Badri area.

The Shri Kapal Mochan Fair has been held since ancient times and holds historical relevance. Devotees are also visiting the exhibitions set up by various departments and religious and social organizations. Through stalls, various departments are working to disseminate the state government’s schemes to the public. The AYUSH department has set up stalls to provide information on Ayurvedic herbs to devotees.

The exhibition by the Department of AYUSH is providing detailed information on herbs and how we can stay healthy by using indigenous herbs like Ashwagandha, Vasa, Tulsi, Harad, Sarpukha, Shankhpushpi, Soya etc. The AYUSH system uses numerous medicinal therapies to treat various diseases and maintain a person’s health and well-being.



TEMPLE: The Iconic Australian Film Company Behind Bollywood’s Biggest Moments Down Under Marks 25 Years of ‘Worshipping Cinema’

By
Charanjit Ahuja
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Twenty-five years ago, an Indian-born film graduate from Sydney completed a thesis on Indian cinema and transformed that passion into a pioneering enterprise. With the founding of films & casting TEMPLE in 2000 and the motto “Worshipping Cinema,” Anupam Sharma turned cultural curiosity into a bridge between two of the world’s most dynamic screen industries — India and Australia.
Since then, TEMPLE has grown into a ground-breaking production and consultancy company that has reshaped how the two nations see, shoot, and celebrate each other on screen.
From Dil Chahta Hai and Heyy Babyy to Love Story 2050, TEMPLE — Australia’s first India-specialist film production and consultancy company — now celebrates 25 years of a legacy spanning more than 400 projects, symbolising a vibrant collaboration between Bollywood and the Australian film industry.
Founded by Anupam Sharma, filmmaker, author, and entrepreneur once dubbed the “Czar of Bollywood in Australia” and listed among the 50 most influential Australian film professionals, TEMPLE quickly gained recognition with early collaborations for industry icons such as Feroz Khan, Roshan, Yash Johar, and Aditya Chopra, before cementing its reputation with Farhan Akhtar’s cult classic Dil Chahta Hai.
Over the years, TEMPLE’s expert team has powered some of Bollywood’s most memorable shoots in Australia while also providing high-end consultancy and technical support in India. From animatronics for Koi… Mil Gaya to stunt driving for Dhoom, fire sequences for Om Shanti Om, and stunts for Lakshya, TEMPLE has been at the forefront whenever Bollywood called — and Australia answered.
The company also made history by conceptualizing the Australia–India Film Fund, which was announced by the then Prime Minister of Australia during a visit to India. Through this initiative, TEMPLE produced the cross-cultural romantic comedy ‘unINDIAN,’ starring Brett Lee and Tannishtha Chatterjee — the first Australian film ever featured on ‘The Kapil Sharma Show,’ beaming Australian storytelling into millions of Indian homes.
TEMPLE has also been the go-to company for India’s massive advertising industry, managing major campaigns with Percept, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Billoo Sandhu, and Kunal Kapoor, as well as large-scale promotions for Tourism Australia and Destination NSW — among the biggest ever filmed in Australia.
The collaboration between the two industries soon became a two-way exchange. TEMPLE became the first Australian production house commissioned by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to promote Australian films and talent in India. The company also played a key role in the first India-centric Australian reality show, Bollywood Star, and in filming several Australian television projects in India — a testament to its deep understanding of both markets.
As TEMPLE celebrates its silver jubilee, the company is developing a new slate of India-centric Australian feature films with support from Screen Australia, Screen Queensland, and Screen NSW. With the India–Australia co-production treaty in place, a growing Indian diaspora, and the rising popularity of Bollywood in Australia, the timing could not be more perfect.
Adding to the milestone celebrations, TEMPLE’s award-winning documentary Brand Bollywood Downunder — exploring the India–Australia film connection and featuring Bollywood luminaries — has just premiered on Netflix ANZ, poetically echoing the company’s 25-year journey.
“It’s cinema karma,” smiles Sharma. “A film about India–Australia film links premieres on Netflix ANZ just as we turn 25.”
Under Sharma’s leadership, TEMPLE also launched the National Indian Film Festival of Australia (NIFFA) — the country’s first national Indian film festival — showcasing the diversity and richness of Indian cinema to Australian audiences. The festival opened to overwhelming support from both the Australian and Indian governments and private agencies and is already expanding to regional Australia.
Reflecting on the milestone, Sharma says, “These 25 years are a celebration of Australia’s diversity, India’s creative reach, and the enduring power of cinema to connect cultures — a perfect arranged marriage between the most prolific and most professional film industries.”
As TEMPLE marks 25 years of Worshipping Cinema, it stands not just as a production company but as a cultural force — one that continues to shape the evolving narrative of India–Australia screen collaboration.


Fatehabad’s ‘Jack’ and ‘Rambo’: Two-Star Canine Warriors Who Changed the Course of the Operation

By
Charanjit Ahuja
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Chandigarh, November 4
Usually, when tales of police bravery are told, they focus on human heroes. But the recent and historic success of Fatehabad Police owes its credit to two brave warriors who walk on four legs and whose keen noses have struck fear in the minds of criminals. They are the trained police canines — ‘Jack’ and ‘Rambo.’ Through their extraordinary scent-detection abilities and seamless coordination with the police force, these two have elevated ‘Operation Jeevan Jyoti’ to new heights.
They are not just dogs, but frontline warriors of our team — DGP Haryana
Director General of Police O.P. Singh praised the operation and said that canines like Jack and Rambo are not just police members but real heroes. He added that these dogs serve as our eyes and nose in the field, proving to be highly effective in uprooting criminal networks. He affirmed that Haryana Police is working under a strict zero-tolerance policy against criminals, and such operations will continue in the future.
Secret tip-off and Gorakhpur raid
On Monday morning, when the police team led by Bhuna Police Station in-charge Sub-Inspector Om Prakash reached Gorakhpur for a raid based on a secret tip-off, Jack and Rambo were right there with them. Upon reaching the spot, Jack’s alert movement and sharp sense of smell signalled suspicion, as he focused on a specific part of the house. Rambo, following the same lead, reinforced the suspicion and guided the police team further.
Discovery of the hidden chamber and seizure
The alertness of both canines prompted the commando unit to act swiftly and led to the discovery of a hidden chamber inside the house. Inside this concealed space, the police found a cache of illegal weapons and ammunition. Four illicit firearms, 14 live cartridges, and 20 liters of lahan (raw liquor used for making illegal alcohol) were all recovered from this secret chamber.
Terror among criminals, trust among the public
This success under ‘Operation Jeevan Jyoti’ has dealt a severe blow to the criminal network while boosting public confidence in the police system. With trained canines like Jack and Rambo, it’s clear that when technology, human skill, and animal instincts converge, victory in the fight against crime and drugs is assured.
Canines: Dedicated guardians of the police family
The dogs in Haryana Police’s canine unit are not just participants in a single operation, but committed members of the police family, whose dedication and courage always remain focused on the safety of the public. The story of Jack and Rambo is not merely about one successful operation — it is proof that true guardians never tire, regardless of whether they are humans or canines.

Bihar elections: not employment, migration but ‘insult’, ‘katta’ politics 

By
Tehelka Bureau
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File Photo

At a time when politicians should be focusing on employment, migration, development, and law and order, building narratives around personal insults and the “katta” in Bihar 2025 appears to be a strategic diversion from larger issues. Ahead of the first phase of elections on November 6, by highlighting ‘katta’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has tried to shift attention and public debate toward emotions and issues other than critical concerns, say critics.

On Monday, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and party MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra hit back at Modi over his “katta” remark. Addressing a public rally, Kharge questioned Modi’s claim that the RJD forced the Congress to concede the chief minister’s post in the INDIA bloc, asking, “Was Modi Ji present when Tejashwi Yadav was announced as the CM face?” Modi had alleged, “RJD ne Congress ki kanpatti par katta rakh kar CM pad chura liya,” implying that the RJD snatched the chief minister’s post from the Congress by holding a gun to its head.

Kharge also predicted that the BJP would “throw Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar out like a fly from milk” after the assembly polls. Mocking the NDA’s manifesto launch, he said the event ended “in 36 seconds — faster than instant coffee,” claiming Nitish had been “hijacked” by the BJP.

Addressing rallies. Priyanka Gandhi ridiculed Modi’s repeated claims that opposition leaders insult the nation. She suggested he form a new “Apmaan Mantralaya” (Ministry of Insult) to catalog everyone who had allegedly disrespected him or the country. “It could also keep records of daily insults hurled at my family by the ruling party—enough to fill a library,” she added, accusing Modi of distracting from pressing issues such as unemployment and poverty.

PM Modi’s “katta” remark was a sharp political swipe aimed at the RJD and its ally, the Congress.  The term “katta”, a colloquial reference to a country-made pistol, is commonly used in Bihar political slang to denote intimidation or coercion. Supporters say Modi intended to highlight what he called the weakness and lack of internal democracy within the INDIA bloc, portraying the alliance as fractured and dominated by one party’s aggressive tactics.

Basically, the PM tried to connect with local idioms familiar to Bihar voters while reinforcing the BJP’s message of unity, order, and decisive leadership and underlining his party’s broader campaign narrative: that opposition parties are bound by convenience rather than conviction. This is not all, earlier during the 2025 Bihar election campaign, PM Modi also invoked alleged remarks made about his mother at an opposition rally, calling the comments not just a personal insult but “an insult to all mothers, sisters, and daughters of India.”

Elections—Shivakumar urges Karnataka employers to give paid leave to Bihar workers to vote

By
Tehelka Bureau
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File Photo

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has reportedly urged companies and business establishments across the state to offer three days of paid leave to workers from Bihar so they can return home and vote in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Reports citing a letter dated November 3, quoted Shivakumar as saying that many people from Bihar are employed in Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka. With polling scheduled for November 6 and 11, 2025, he appealed to employers—including hotel owners, contractors, builders, and shopkeepers—to help their employees exercise their democratic rights.

“I request all companies and business establishments to provide at least three days of paid leave to voters from Bihar to facilitate their participation in the elections,” he stated, adding that such cooperation would strengthen voter participation and democracy.

The Karnataka Deputy CM had earlier called on Biharis living in Bengaluru to support the Mahagathbandhan alliance in the Bihar Assembly polls. He urged them to back Tejashwi Yadav for Chief Minister and Rahul Gandhi for Prime Minister. Calling Biharis a hardworking community, the senior Congress leader said his party’s vision would bring comprehensive development to Bihar and promised that if the INDIA alliance forms the government it would introduce welfare and guarantee schemes similar to those implemented in Karnataka.

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