Category: India

  • Delhi Court Extends Interim Bail Of Engineer Rashid Till October 28 In Terror Funding Case |

    NEW DELHI: The Patiala House Court in Delhi on Tuesday extended the interim bail of Engineer Rashid, an independent Lok Sabha MP from Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, till October 28 in connection with a terror funding case. The court granted the extension on medical grounds, relating to Rashid’s father.
    Additional Sessions Judge Chander Jit Singh, while extending the interim bail, directed Rashid to surrender before the jail authorities by 12 noon on October 28, 2024. The court also deferred the pronouncement of its order on his regular bail plea until the same date.

    The same judge had previously granted Rashid interim bail on September 10 to allow him to campaign for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, and has now postponed the decision on his regular bail plea. The court noted that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had verified the medical documents and did not oppose the extension of interim bail sought by the applicant.

    The elections for the 90-member Jammu and Kashmir Assembly were conducted in three phases from September 18 to October 1, with the results announced on October 8. The National Conference-Congress alliance secured 48 seats, followed by the BJP with 29 seats. In 2005, Engineer Rashid was arrested by the Special Operations Group (SOG) in Srinagar for allegedly supporting militants and was held for three months and 17 days. He faced charges of anti-national activities and was incarcerated in Cargo, Humhama, and Raj Bagh prisons. However, the Chief Judicial Magistrate of Srinagar later dropped all charges against him on humanitarian grounds.

    In August 2019, Rashid was again arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). During his incarceration, he filed his nomination for the 2024 parliamentary elections from jail and won by a margin of 204,000 votes, defeating former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

  • Maharashtra Polls: Number of Total Electors Cross 8.9 Crore With 70 Lakh New Voters |

    MUMBAI: The number of registered voters in Maharashtra has increased by nearly 70 lakh since the 2019 assembly elections, a top poll official said on Wednesday. Assembly elections will be held in the state on November 20. “There were 8,94,46,211 voters in Maharashtra ahead of the 2019 assembly elections. After the special enrollment drives conducted by the election commission, the number has increased to 9,63,69,410, a rise of 69,23,199,” said Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer S Chockalingam. 

    A polling booth generally has 1,500 voters, but if there are more voters, additional booths would be set up, he said, speaking to reporters here a day after the election schedule was announced. There were 96,654 polling booths during the 2019 assembly elections, while there would be 1,00,186 booths this time, Chockalingam informed. 

    There are 6,36,278 voters with physical disabilities, while 1,16,355 voters are from the armed forces. The number of first-time voters, those between 18-19 years of age, is 20,93,206, he said. Notably, of 12,43,192 voters above the age of 85 years, as many as 47,716 are centenarians, said Chockalingam. Nearly six lakh state government employees would be roped in for election work, he said. 

    As to how many voters can be inside a polling booth at a time, he said there would be four tables in each booth. “We have issued instructions that three to four voters can be present inside. During the Lok Sabha elections, some officials allowed only one person inside at a time which resulted in delays in voting,” he added.

    On the use of terms such as “vote-jihad” which has communal overtones, Chockalingam said, “The model code of conduct has come into force yesterday. If some leaders tend to use it (such terms), we will not spare anyone. If we receive any complaint, we will check it within the legal framework and submit our report accordingly.” 

    BJP leader and deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had two weeks ago blamed “vote jihad” for the BJP’s poor show in the state during the Lok Sabha polls. “Out of 48 Lok Sabha constituencies (in Maharashtra), 14 seats witnessed vote jihad. Hindu religion never disrespected other faiths; tolerance is in our blood. I call for the need to awaken Hindutva if someone is voting for electing anti-Hindu leaders to top posts,” he had said at a public event in Kolhapur.

  • Omar Abdullah Takes Oath As Chief Minister Of Jammu And Kashmir |

    Omar Abdullah takes oath as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.

    The oath-taking took place at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha administered the oath of office and secrecy to Omar Abdullah and his council of ministers. Security has been heightened around Abdullah’s residence and key areas in Srinagar ahead of the event.

    In an invitation letter shared by Omar Abdullah on X from LG Manoj Sinha, it said, “I have received a letter of 11th October, 2024 from Dr. Farooq Abdullah, President, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, wherein it has been informed that you have been unanimously elected as Leader of the Legislature Party.”

    “As separately settled, I shall administer Oath of Office and Secrecy to you, and to those recommended by you for induction as members of your Council of Ministers, at SKICC, Srinagar on 16th October 2024 at 11:30 a.m. I take this opportunity to wish you a highly productive tenure and success in your endeavors in the best interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” LG Sinha said.

    Congress-NC Alliance Secures Victory

    This significant political moment comes after the Congress-National Conference (NC) alliance secured a majority in the recently concluded Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. The coalition won a total of 48 seats, with the National Conference emerging victorious in 42 constituencies, while the Congress secured 6.

    The formation of the new government marks the first elected administration in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of the state into two Union Territories in 2019.

    A Legacy of Leadership

    Omar Abdullah’s political journey is deeply rooted in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. His grandfather, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, was the first Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir after its accession to India and later served as the Chief Minister.

    His father, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, has held the position of Chief Minister three times. Omar himself previously served as Chief Minister of the erstwhile state from 2009 to 2015 and was also the Union Minister of State for External Affairs under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government from 2001 to 2002.

    End of Presidential Rule in J&K

    Jammu and Kashmir had been under President’s rule since 2018 after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) withdrew its support from the coalition government led by Mehbooba Mufti of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). The recent revocation of President’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir has paved the way for the formation of a new government, following the successful assembly elections.

    Leaders from INDIA Bloc Attend Ceremony

    Leaders from various political parties, especially those part of the INDIA Bloc, have arrived in Srinagar to attend the oath-taking ceremony. Notable leaders present include Akhilesh Yadav, President of the Samajwadi Party; Supriya Sule, working president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP); Prakash Karat from the Communist Party of India (Marxist); and DMK Deputy General Secretary Kanimozhi.

  • Most Powerful Women Achievers: Shaping The Future With Purpose And Insight |

    Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” This article highlights ten remarkable women achievers—Dr. Stuti Khare Shukla, Dr. Amaya Sharma, Prernaa Makhariaa, Mohsinaa Ahmad, Resham Kamboj, Alkaa Bakshi, Aparna Banerjee, Neha Kannojiya, Shuchi Batra, and Deepa Biswas—who are making significant impacts across various fields.

    Curated by Grisu Media Arts, based in Mumbai, in partnership with YOUx Talks e-magazine, this collection showcases how these influential leaders are transforming their industries. Sunil Sihaag, founder of Grisu Media Arts, emphasizes that their inspiring stories of resilience and creativity highlight the transformative power of dedication and innovation. Join us in exploring their journeys and discovering how they empower future generations to create a brighter tomorrow.

    1. Dr. Stuti Khare Shukla, MD, is a renowned dermatologist and hair specialist, often called India’s “Hair Growth Queen.”  She serves as the Chief Dermatologist and Medical Director of the Elements of Aesthetics chain of clinics in Dubai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Nagpur, Jabalpur, and Balaghat. She offers her signature non-surgical treatment, Hair Growth Booster®️, which has been a breakthrough for hair loss patients. Holding both an MD degree and international fellowships recognized in top American journals, Dr. Stuti completed her postgraduate training in dermatology in India and further advanced her expertise with fellowships in advanced skin treatments and aesthetics in the USA, Singapore, and Bangkok. Her mission is to empower individuals worldwide, enabling them to embrace their confidence and live with their heads held high.

    2. Dr. Amaya Sharma, India’s renowned Celebrity Psychologist and founder of Manah, a leading virtual therapy platform, has redefined the global conversation on mental health. Featured in international articles for her innovative approach, she seamlessly integrates her professional expertise with an empathetic approach, making mental health care accessible across borders. As the Woman Face of the Year by Fox Story India, Dr. Amaya’s mission is to destigmatize therapy and empower individuals worldwide. Her work, spanning social media, podcasts, and therapy, reflects her unwavering commitment to mental wellness and emotional growth.

    3. Prernaa Makhariaa is India’s first jewellery influencer, with a global following of over 252,000 enthusiasts. With 22 years of experience in the gems and jewellery industry, she has built a reputation as a personal jewellery shopper, offering expert advice and guidance. Recently, she founded Jewellery Networking, a platform aimed at connecting service providers across various industries with those in the gems and jewellery sector. Prernaa’s extensive knowledge and innovative approach position her as a key figure in modern jewellery marketing and networking.

    4. In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world, finding clarity, self-worth, and inner empowerment has become crucial for individuals seeking both personal and professional growth. Mohsinaa Ahmad, a Lady Shri Ram College graduate with a degree in Sociology (Hons), has dedicated herself to guiding people toward life-changing transformations. Through her globally recognized Self Discovery Podcast, which airs on the Hindustan Times YouTube channel, Mohsinaa brings empowering conversations to the forefront, helping people gain direction, emotional clarity, and insight into self-worth. Her one-on-one guidance and empowerment sessions, conducted globally, touch on key areas such as emotional blockages, mindset resetting, and embracing self-love. Her powerful coaching empowers individuals to tap into their authentic selves, making life-altering changes that ripple into their careers and personal relationships.

    5. Resham Kamboj, the visionary force behind Tarot Tree of Life, is a dynamic powerhouse—a nurturing mother, spiritual healer, mentor, successful entrepreneur, and dedicated businesswoman. Through her profound work in Akashic Readings, she empowers individuals to unlock the deeper layers of their soul’s journey, illuminating past-life experiences and clarifying their true life purpose. By accessing the Akashic Records, clients confront challenges head-on, break free from karmic patterns, and embark on a transformative path of healing and self-realization. Using a unique channeled prayer, Resham connects directly to the Akashic Records, opening a gateway to profound insights from spiritual masters and heartfelt messages from loved ones on the other side. She offers expert mentorship through practical, immersive classes and personalized sessions. With over 5,000 individuals having benefited from her wisdom, she underscores the value of learning from an experienced guide to truly master this life-altering practice.

    6. Alkaa Bakshi, known as AlkaaTarotGuru, is a renowned celebrity tarot card reader, numerologist, life coach, and healer with over twenty years of experience. Guided by the blessings of Sai Baba, her spiritual journey has helped her become a trusted advisor for celebrities and high-profile clients. Her tarot readings blend spiritual wisdom and practical insights, providing holistic guidance that touches on both emotional and material aspects of life. As a skilled numerologist, she decodes life’s mysteries through the power of numbers, offering clarity on one’s strengths, challenges, and life purposes. In addition to her readings, Alkaa is a life coach, guiding individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Alkaa is also a blessed healer, known for her transformative energy healing practices.

    7. Aparna Banerjee is a renowned artist, photographer, and gallerist based in Gurgaon, India, and the founder of The Art Lounge. She has curated and participated in over 70 global exhibitions, with a focus on contemporary abstract art centered on women, children, and nature. Trained in nine traditional Indian art forms, Aparna’s contributions to art have been recognized by the Bangladesh High Commission and UNESCO. Her recent expedition to Kenya, organized by the Indian High Commission, inspired her latest works. Aparna is set to exhibit at Museo Camera Gallery in Gurgaon during a G-20 event in May 2023.

    8. Neha Kannojiya is a highly accomplished professional who began her career in aviation and hospitality before transitioning to the maritime industry. Despite the challenges of coming from a tier-2 city like Dehradun,Uttarakhand. She has become a trailblazer in promoting maritime careers locally in Uttarakhand. Her leadership experience spans various sectors of the maritime industry, including manning, commercial shipping, and maritime education. She currently serves as the Senior Vice President at Integrated Maritime Exchange (IME), a maritime tech company, and holds a Director position at the International Business Academy (IMBA), College Dehradun. Recognized for her significant contributions to the shipping sector, Neha actively mentors the next generation, encouraging both young girls and boys to explore opportunities in maritime business roles.

    9. Shuchi Batra, an emerging author and former poet, has made waves with her debut romance novel, You Belong with Me, which intricately explores themes of love, loss, and second chances. The book quickly climbed to the top 10 on Amazon, showcasing her talent for crafting relatable characters and complex emotions. With a significant social media presence, Shuchi’s spoken word poetry has captivated audiences on Instagram. Her collaboration with a team of award-winning poets and screenwriters has amplified the book’s success, generating substantial buzz and sales. Her ability to resonate deeply with readers makes her a talent to watch, with her novel poised for even greater success.

    10. Deepa Biswas is a prominent figure in the field of classical dance, specifically Kathak, with a rich legacy spanning over 40 years. Based in Nagpur, she has dedicated her life to introducing students to the beauty of classical dance, having taught Kathak for the past 37 years. Her students not only engage in offline classes but also benefit from online learning opportunities, allowing them to participate in examinations conducted by esteemed universities like the University of Calcutta. Her daughter, Priyanka Biswas, plays a key role in her journey, providing essential support in establishing Priyanka Kathak Classes. Together, they aim to foster a deep appreciation for Indian classical dance among the younger generation, encouraging students to embrace modern dance forms while remaining rooted in traditional techniques.

     

    In conclusion, the inspiring journeys of these ten powerful women—Dr. Stuti Khare Shukla, Dr. Amaya Sharma, Prernaa Makhariaa, Mohsinaa Ahmad, Resham Kamboj, Alkaa Bakshi, Aparna Banerjee, Neha Kannojiya, Shuchi Batra, and Deepa Biswas—highlight the profound impact of resilience and innovation. Sunil Sihaag, founder of Grisu Media Arts, emphasizes that their contributions not only transform their fields but also empower future generations to chase their dreams. Their stories motivate us all to embrace the beauty of our aspirations and continue breaking barriers in pursuit of success.

     

    Visit for more details; www.grisumedia.com & www.youxtalks.com

     

     

    (This article is part of IndiaDotCom Pvt Lt’s sponsored feature, a paid publication programme. IDPL claims no editorial involvement and assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the article.)

  • Amid India, Canada Row, Focus Shifts To Five Eyes Nations, G7 Members | Analysis |

    With India and Canada locked in a diplomatic battle, both sides are keenly watching the developments taking place related to the row. While both countries have expelled their diplomats, the matter has become serious with Canada accusing India of ‘criminal activities’. On the other hand, India has accused Canada of supporting Khalistani terrorists. India has also alleged that Canada is levelling these allegations to gain political mileage by wooing the Khalistan supporters ahead of the crucial national elections slated for next year.

    Addressing the media, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said that the Justin Trudeau government is discussing the issue with other nations and indicated that even sanctions against India are possible. On the other hand, India is sending a team to the United States with the latest update on the investigations related to the controversy. 

    With the diplomatic escalation in place, the focus will now be on the nations that are part of the Five Eyes and G7 nations. For the uninitiated, the Five Eyes (FVEY) nations are an intelligence alliance consisting of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. On the other hand, the G7 nations comprise the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. India has been gracing the G7 as a guest nation. 

    With Canada already on a diplomatic offensive and reaching out to the United Kingdom and the United States, India has also started working to turn the tide in its favour. New Zeland, a member of the FVEY, has already said that the allegations, if proven true, would be very concerning. 

    India already shares warm relations with France, Italy, Japan and the United States. As New Zealand appears to have been siding with Canada, India will have to work with nations like the United Kingdom, Australia and Germany to set things straight and not let the Canadian narrative prevail. It’s time for the Modi government to expose Canada and its support to the anti-India elements in the guise of ‘freedom of speech/expression’.

  • Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024 Dates, Phase, Voting Time, Other Details |

    Maharashtra Election Dates 2024: The Election Commission of India announced the dates for the Assembly Polls for Maharashtra on Tuesday. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with the two Election Commissioners – Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu announced the details of the much-awaited election. The legislative assembly of Maharashtra is set to end on November 3. 

    As per the Election Commission of India trends, the 288 legislative assembly seats are likely to go to the polls in single phase. The counting of votes may get concluded before November 26. 

    The Election Commission of India (ECI) reported, the state has 9.63 crore registered voters, with 4.97 crore male voters and 4.66 crore female voters. A total of 52,789 polling stations will be set up, including 39,048 in rural areas and 13,741 in urban areas.

    Maharashtra Assembly Election Full Schedule 2024 

    Nomination Filing Start Date: 22-10-24
    Nomination Filing End Date: 29-10-24 
    Scrutiny of nomination: 30-10-24
    Withdrawal of nomination: 4-11-24
    Voting Date: 20-11-24
    Result Counting Date: 23-11-24

    In 2019, the assembly elections were held on October 21 while the counting of votes was held on October 24. During the last elections, the BJP and then an undivided Shiv Sena had contested the polls together. The BJP had bagged 105 seats while the Sena had got 56 seats. Congress had managed to win 44 seats, and NCP 56 seats.

    However, the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance failed to form a government after no consensus was reached over sharing the Chief Ministerial post. Then, Shiv Sena had joined hands with Congress and the undivided NCP to form Maha Vikas Aghadi which ruled the state for around three years. Later, a rebellion in Shiv Sena led by current Chief Minister Eknath Shinde propelled the BJP to power. Subsequently, Ajit Pawar led a rebellion in NCP and joined the ruling Mahayuti coalition as well. 

    The Maharashtra elections 2024 will be a litmus test for Shiv Sena-UBT, Shiv Sena-Shinde faction, NCP-Ajit Pawar faction and NCP-Sharad Pawar.

  • October 2024 Supermoon: When And How To Watch The Hunter Moon, Significance And More |

    The full moon this week is going to be a supermoon – in fact, it will be the third of four consecutive supermoons, and even if by a tiny margin, it’s going to be the brightest. This is going to be a treat for skygazers as this moon happens to be Hunter Moon – the largest supermoon, bigger and brighter.

    October 2024 Supermoon: When To See The Full Moon And How

    According to NASA, the full moon will reach peak illumination in the United States on Thursday morning, October 17, 2024, at 7:26 am EDT, which means around 4.56 pm IST on the same date. The date and time will vary as per time zones and geographical location. As per NASA, the Moon will look full for approximately three days during this period, from Tuesday evening to Friday morning. You can watch the moon with the naked eye. To get the best view, a clear night sky with the least pollution will be the best.

    Hunter Moon Significance: How And Why It Got Its Name

    Following the Harvest Moon, which occurs around the autumn equinox, comes the Hunter Moon. As noted in the Farmer’s Almanac, after the leaves have fallen from the branches and the deers have grown plump, comes the time for hunting. After the harvesters have cleared the fields, hunters can spot the animals that have come out seeking food and water. Now they, along with the foxes, can start hunting. This celestial event also signifies the shift in seasons. Traditionally, this time of year was when tribes prepared for winter by stocking up on meat. The name of the season captures the essence of hunting and gathering during this period.

    Also Read: Sharad Purnima 2024: Date, Time, Rituals, And Significance Of Ashwina Purnima

    Full Moon And Its Significance In Hindu Festivals

    The full moon, or “Purnima,” holds a major significance in Hindu culture and festivals. In fact, the moon’s phases are deeply intertwined with various religious observances, rituals, and cultural practices. The October 2024 supermoon is the time for  Sharad Purnima, also known as Kumara Purnima, Kojagari Purnima, Navanna Purnima Kojagrat Purnima, or Kaumudi Purnima. This is a harvest festival celebrated in a variety of ways across India. Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Krishna and the Moon God on this day. As per Drik Panchang, the Purnima Tithi (Full Moon Period) starts on October 16, 2024, at 08:40 PM, while Purnima Tithi ends on October 17, 2024, at 4:55 PM.

     


    (This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)

  • As India-Canada Tensions Mount Over Nijjar’s Killing, Trudeau Speaks To UK PM Starmer |

    India-Canada Diplomatic Row: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday amid rising tensions between Canada and India following the alleged assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. This comes after, India has withdrawn some of its diplomats from Ottawa and expelled six Canadian officials from New Delhi. The action came as Canada implicated several Indian High Commissioners and diplomats in its investigation into Nijjar’s killing. New Delhi has criticized the Trudeau government, stating that it has not provided a shred of evidence to support its claims. 

    According to an official statement from the Canadian Prime Minister’s Office, Justin Trudeau discussed the recent developments, calling them a “targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India.” The statement also noted that the Canadian and UK leaders agreed to remain in close and regular contact as the situation unfolds. 

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, about the targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India. More on what was discussed: https://t.co/iCvXc0nYQl
    — CanadianPM (@CanadianPM) October 14, 2024

    Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs while removing Indian diplomats from Ottawa said, “It was underlined that in an atmosphere of extremism and violence, the Trudeau Government’s actions endangered their safety. We have no faith in the current Canadian Government’s commitment to ensure their security. Therefore, the Government of India has decided to withdraw the High Commissioner and other targeted diplomats and officials,” the MEA asserted. 

    India-Canada Diplomatic Tensions 

    Tensions between India and Canada remain high after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told his country’s parliament last year about the “potential involvement” of Indian government agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. However, Trudeau’s government has yet to provide any evidence to Indian authorities to substantiate these allegations. 

    On Canada’s move to link the Indian diplomats to Nijjar case, the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said that Prime Minister Trudeau’s hostility toward India has been evident for a long time.   

    the ministry further said, “The Government of India strongly rejects these preposterous imputations and ascribes them to the political agenda of the Trudeau Government that is centered around vote bank politics,” the MEA statement said.

    Responding to the strongly worded statement from the MEA on Monday, Canada PM Trudeau accused the Indian government of making a ‘fundamental error’ by supporting criminal activities in Canada, reported ANI.

    Trudeau, speaking at a press conference in Ottawa, underscored the significance of an upcoming meeting between the national security advisors of Canada and India, scheduled for this weekend in Singapore. 

    Canadian PM recalled his recent interaction with PM Narendra Modi by saying, “When I spoke to PM Modi at the end of last week, I highlighted how incredibly important [the] meeting between our national security advisors in Singapore this weekend was going to be. He was aware of that meeting, and I pressed upon him that the meeting needs to be taken very, very seriously,” ANI quoted Trudeau.

  • Watch: Man Brutally Beaten To Death In Front Of Family In Mumbai |

    A 27-year-old man named Akash Maine was beaten to death by a group of men in a road rage incident in Mumbai’s Malad area. He was with his parents when the attack occurred after a dispute over overtaking on Saturday, October 12.

    The victim was reportedly out buying a new car on Dussehra when an auto-rickshaw overtook his vehicle near the Malad railway station. This led to a heated argument with the auto driver. Later, the situation went under control and the driver and his associates attacked Akash which resulted in death.

     

    This, truly, is what Hindutva Pop music has been designed for–the easy appeal that it creates among various classes, across the rural & urban.

    Well-heeled, upper-class youngsters, seeing no problem in singing this in a metro. H-Pop is everywhere.pic.twitter.com/X4K3wSTWBA
    — Kunal Purohit (@kunalpurohit) October 13, 2024

     

    The video went viral on social media, capturing the moment Akash was attacked while his mother tried to protect him. In the video, she is seen lying on top of him, attempting to shield him from the attackers, as his father begs them to stop.

    According to India Today reports, police have filed a murder case against the auto-rickshaw driver and three others under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). 

  • Supreme Court Rejects Plea Seeking Declaration Of Non-Consensual Unnatural Sex A Offence Under BNS |

    NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a plea filed against the exclusion of the penal provisions for the offences of unnatural sex and sodomy from the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC). A bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said the issue falls within parliamentary domain and it cannot pass any direction in the matter.

    “We can’t compel the Parliament to introduce laws. We can’t create an offence…This court under Article 142 cannot direct that a particular act constitutes an offence. Such exercise falls under parliamentary domain,” the bench said as it allowed the petitioner to approach the government with a representation on the issue.

    Section 377 of the IPC punished non-consensual “unnatural sex” between two adults, sexual activities against minors, and bestiality. On September 6, 2018, the Supreme Court, however, decriminalised same-sex relationships between two consenting adults.

    The BNS, which replaced the IPC, came into force from July 1, 2024. The court was hearing a plea filed by one Pooja Sharma seeking to address the “exigent legal lacuna” resulting from the enactment of the BNS.

    “The act of omission on the part of respondent (authorities) leaves the victims of non-consensual unnatural sex in dearth of any legal remedy, which would commensurate with the gravity of offence as were earlier defined under Section 377 of the IPC,” said the plea.

    In August, 2024, the Delhi High Court had asked the Centre to make its stand clear on the exclusion of penal provisions for the offences of unnatural sex and sodomy from the recently-introduced BNS, replacing the IPC, and said the legislature needs to take care of the issue of non-consensual unnatural sex.