Murder of Bengal businessman accused of coal smuggling triggers BJP-TMC tussle

A businessman in West Bengal, who was under police investigation for illegal coal mining operations, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in front of an eatery on Saturday 29 January. Rajesh Jha, who had ties to the Bharatiya Janata Party, was found with critical injuries in a white SUV in the city of Shaktigarh, while his associate was injured on the back seat. The police are examining CCTV footage recovered from the scene and are investigating whether a blue car found abandoned on the old Grand Trunk Road was linked to the incident.

Coast Guard in ‘highest level of readiness’

Indian Coast Guard is at highest readiness amid India-Pakistan tensions, strategically deploying sea platforms near Mumbai. Enhanced maritime security follows 26/11 attacks, with comprehensive surveillance network monitoring coastal waters to prevent potential security threats.

Only 1% U.P. aided schools comply with govt directive on teacher data

Only 812 out of 4,512 government-aided secondary schools in Uttar Pradesh have uploaded required teacher data, with just 49 entries verified. Education director has instructed immediate compliance and data submission on the designated web portal.

Himachal governor reviews state’s preparedness amid India-Pakistan conflict

Himachal Pradesh governor reviews state's preparedness amid India-Pakistan tensions, directing heightened border vigilance, robust security measures, and community awareness while praising military efforts and urging citizens to remain calm and informed.

Khichdi scam: Amol Kirtikar, Suraj Chavan, 6 others charge-sheeted

Eight people, including Shiv Sena leaders Amol Kirtikar and Suraj Chavan, were charge-sheeted for a ₹14.75 crore khichdi distribution scam during Covid-19, involving fraudulent contract allocation, illegal sub-contracting, and misappropriation of funds.

Punjab: Hoshiarpur launches civil defence enrolment drive to tackle emergency

Hoshiarpur launches civil defence enrolment drive amid India-Pakistan tensions, welcoming citizens from all sectors. Officials encourage emergency preparedness, discourage large gatherings, and implement safety measures like firecracker bans and essential commodity restrictions.

Dalai Lama extends wishes to Pope Leo XIV

Dalai Lama congratulated Pope Leo XIV, expressing hope for global peace and compassion. He highlighted his longstanding interfaith dialogue, emphasizing humanity's unity and shared commitment to understanding across religious traditions.

Unrecognised madrasas locked, bulldozers roar, students sent home: U.P’s crackdown in full swing

U.P. government launches crackdown on unrecognized madrasas near Nepal border, sealing and demolishing unauthorized structures. Students sent home, border security heightened. Administration targets land encroachments within 10 km of international boundary.

Punjab: State Control Room monitoring essential services

Punjab establishes State Control Room with nodal officers from each department to monitor essential services like health, food, electricity, and transport. 15 officers will oversee coordination between civil and military administration across districts.

Punjab cancels leaves of all IAS, PCS officers

Punjab government cancels leaves for all IAS and PCS officers due to India-Pakistan tensions. Fire staff placed on full alert, with 24/7 deployment and emergency preparedness measures implemented across sensitive state locations.

Two hotel workers killed in crash with stationary tempo on Western Express Highway

Two hotel workers died after their motorcycle hit a stationary, unmarked tempo on Western Express Highway. The tempo driver, who failed to set up safety measures, fled the scene. Both victims suffered fatal head injuries and were pronounced dead at the hospital.

Punjab earmarks 2,600 trauma beds in govt hospitals amid tensions between India and Pakistan

Punjab prepares for potential conflict by allocating 2,600 trauma beds in government hospitals. Health department forms response teams, mobilizes ambulances, supplies medicines, and ensures blood bank readiness in border districts.

HC: Proceedings not maintainable under Damage to Public Property Act

Allahabad High Court ruled that proceedings under the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act are not maintainable for illegal land encroachment, which should instead be addressed through revenue court eviction proceedings under Section 67 of the Revenue Code.

Kanji House illegally occupied by LMC official, civic body assures probe

LMC revenue inspector Seema Singh illegally occupied a kanji house in Ismail Ganj for over a year, shutting down the stray cattle shelter. Municipal authorities promise an investigation and strict action, but no resolution has been reached despite multiple notices.

Another night in darkness at 14 Punjab districts

Fourteen Punjab districts experienced complete blackout amid rising India-Pakistan military tensions. Border regions like Amritsar and Ferozepur went dark, with residents voluntarily dimming lights. Sirens and sudden power cuts heightened anxiety about potential conflict.

Delhi residents resort to panic buying, hoarding of essentials

Amid India-Pakistan border tensions, Delhi residents are panic buying essentials like groceries, medicines, and rations. Authorities reassure no shutdown is planned, but local stores report increased bulk purchases and some items becoming unavailable online.