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  • Rajasthan Assembly Bypolls and Key National Electi
    My India Times      2024-11-07  23

    Rajasthan Assembly Bypolls and Key National Electi

    The Election Commission of India has set the stage for a politically significant month as Rajasthan and multiple states across India gear up for key bypolls this November. With 48 assembly seats across 14 states up for grabs, including seven in Rajasthan, these elections are expected to act as a barometer of the political mood ahead of the 2024 general elections. The bypolls will take place on November 13 and November 20, with vote counting scheduled for November 23. Additionally, two major parliamentary seats – Wayanad in Kerala and Nanded in Maharashtra – are also set for by-elections, drawing national attention due to their prominent candidates and recent vacancies.

    Rajasthan By-Elections: Full Schedule

    The Rajasthan Assembly bypolls will cover seven seats where voters will cast their ballots on November 13, and counting will commence on November 23. This election will serve as a critical litmus test for political parties in the state as they prepare for the Assembly elections. These seven constituencies represent a variety of communities and regions within Rajasthan, setting up a diverse voter turnout that could reshape local power dynamics.

    Key Dates:

    • Polling Date: November 13, 2024
    • Results Date: November 23, 2024

    Nationwide Bypolls in 14 States: Overview

    The Election Commission also announced a packed schedule for by-elections in 48 assembly seats across 14 states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Sikkim. Each state will be closely watched, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, which holds nine seats for bypolls in key constituencies like Meerapur, Ghaziabad, Khair, and Phulpur. The bypolls for these UP constituencies could provide insights into regional shifts and voter sentiments, especially with major parties contesting to strengthen their bases.

    In Bihar and West Bengal, the bypolls will gauge the impact of recent political alliances and shifts, with parties like the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Indian National Congress (INC), and regional powerhouses vying for dominance. Similarly, Karnataka, which recently saw a high-stakes Assembly election, will also hold elections in multiple seats, offering a chance for both ruling and opposition parties to either reinforce or challenge the existing government’s mandate.

    High-Profile Parliamentary Seats: Wayanad and Nanded

    Apart from assembly bypolls, the Election Commission announced voting for two parliamentary constituencies – Wayanad in Kerala and Nanded in Maharashtra. Both seats have drawn significant national interest due to the prominent political figures associated with them.

    Wayanad:
    Wayanad, a historically Congress stronghold, was vacated after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who had won both Wayanad and Raebareli in the 2019 general elections, opted to retain Raebareli and resigned from Wayanad. This by-election will be crucial for the Congress as they aim to retain the constituency, considered a vital foothold in Kerala. However, with parties like the BJP and Left Democratic Front (LDF) eyeing the seat, the election is expected to be hotly contested.

    Nanded:
    The Nanded parliamentary seat in Maharashtra, previously held by the late Congress MP Chavan Vasantrao Balwantrao, will also go to the polls. This by-election holds special significance for Maharashtra’s political landscape, with the Congress seeking to maintain its presence amidst a competitive state political scene featuring Shiv Sena, NCP, and BJP alliances. The Nanded bypoll is a critical moment for Congress to showcase its grassroots support and for other parties to potentially establish new voter bases.

    Other Major States and Constituencies

    In Uttar Pradesh, constituencies like Khair, Karhal, and Sishamau will go to the polls. These seats are viewed as significant because they may indicate the BJP's continued appeal in a state where it has held a strong majority, but faces ongoing opposition. Additionally, Phulpur, known for its historical significance, will be particularly noteworthy as major parties contest for control in this politically strategic area.

    In Bihar, another battleground state, the by-elections are being seen as a referendum on the coalition between JD(U) and RJD, which has been met with mixed reactions from voters. With assembly seats up for grabs, results here could either solidify the alliance or give an edge to the opposition.

    Election Process and Security Measures

    Given the scale and significance of these by-elections, the Election Commission is prioritizing strict security and fair voting procedures across all polling centers. An estimated several thousand security personnel and election staff will be deployed to ensure smooth conduct. In addition, the EC has mandated the use of Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) alongside electronic voting machines (EVMs) to maintain transparency and voter confidence.

    The Importance of the November By-Elections

    These bypolls will serve as a key indicator of the public’s mood leading into the 2024 general elections. For the ruling party at the national level, the BJP, these elections provide an opportunity to reaffirm its popularity across various states. Meanwhile, the opposition parties, including Congress and regional powerhouses like Trinamool Congress, JD(U), and DMK, see this as a chance to demonstrate their influence and challenge BJP’s dominance.

    Looking Ahead

    With multiple high-stakes seats on the line, the outcomes of the November by-elections will likely set the tone for India’s political landscape in 2024. As the polling date approaches, campaign activities are intensifying, with parties rolling out promises, agendas, and public outreach programs aimed at mobilizing voter support. Given the rising voter turnout in recent elections, November 13 and 20 could witness strong participation as citizens across states make their voices heard.

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  • Dubai-Jaipur Flight Makes Emergency Landing Amid B
    My India Times    2024-11-07  19

    Dubai-Jaipur Flight Makes Emergency Landing Amid B

    In a dramatic turn of events, an Air India Express flight traveling from Dubai to Jaipur made an emergency landing at Jaipur International Airport in the early hours of Saturday due to a bomb threat that authorities later confirmed as a hoax. Flight IX-196, carrying 189 passengers, was diverted to the airport after receiving the threat at around 12:45 a.m., causing immediate emergency protocols to be activated. The aircraft landed safely at 1:20 a.m., and a thorough search was conducted before officials declared the threat unfounded.

    The Rising Trend of Hoax Threats

    The bomb scare on Air India Express's Dubai-Jaipur flight marks yet another instance in a troubling pattern affecting Indian and international carriers in recent weeks. A significant surge in bomb threats, received mostly via social media channels, has disrupted travel schedules, heightened security responses, and caused alarm among passengers. Over the past few weeks, approximately 40 flights operated by various Indian carriers, including Vistara, Indigo, and Akasa Air, have received similar threats, all of which later turned out to be hoaxes.

    Heightened Security Protocols in Place

    Following the bomb threat on flight IX-196, authorities at Jaipur International Airport launched a full-scale emergency response, including extensive security checks and evacuations where necessary. Airport security teams, in coordination with local law enforcement, ensured that every passenger was safely deplaned, and the aircraft was subjected to rigorous screening to rule out any potential hazards. This enhanced protocol, while disruptive, has been deemed essential to guarantee the safety of travelers amidst the uptick in hoax threats.

    As per established aviation safety measures, such bomb threats trigger a high-priority response from authorities. Air India Express representatives commented, “The safety of our passengers is paramount. In light of the recent bomb scare, we followed every protocol, ensuring a secure landing and complete safety assessment before allowing the flight to proceed further.”

    Other Airlines Targeted by Bomb Threats

    This Air India Express incident is part of a broader trend impacting multiple carriers across India. In a recent case, Vistara’s Delhi-London flight UK17 was diverted to Frankfurt on October 18 after receiving a similar bomb threat. Passengers were re-screened at the Frankfurt airport before the flight was cleared for its final destination in London. Indigo has also been a frequent target, with at least five of its flights receiving bomb threats, and Akasa Air’s Bengaluru-Mumbai route faced similar disruptions due to an anonymous security alert.

    These bomb threats are primarily received through social media and other digital channels, prompting carriers to implement extensive precautionary measures to protect passengers and crew. In each instance, flights were either diverted or delayed, and passengers were deplaned to undergo security checks. Such responses have underscored the need for comprehensive protocols but have also brought attention to the disruptive nature of hoax threats on the aviation industry and passengers’ peace of mind.

    Civil Aviation Ministry's Response: Stricter Norms Expected

    The spate of hoax bomb threats has not gone unnoticed by the Civil Aviation Ministry, which is reportedly considering stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. Proposals under consideration include placing individuals responsible for such threats on the no-fly list and enforcing legal consequences for perpetrators. These measures are aimed at deterring malicious actors from using such threats to cause unnecessary disruption to air travel.

    A senior official from the ministry stated, “These false bomb threats not only disrupt flight operations but also compromise the safety and security of passengers and crew. We are working closely with security agencies to trace the origins of these threats and take appropriate action against those responsible.”

    Growing Concerns Among Passengers and Airlines

    The recent series of bomb threats has generated growing concern among passengers, with many expressing apprehension over flying amid such frequent security scares. Airlines, in turn, have ramped up their security protocols, adding multiple layers of safety checks to prevent any potential incidents. However, these added measures have also led to delays, rerouting of flights, and inconvenience for passengers.

    A frequent traveler affected by one of the recent flight diversions shared their experience, saying, “It’s unsettling when you’re suddenly told there’s a bomb threat. You go from excitement to a sense of fear, not knowing if it’s real or a hoax. While we appreciate the security precautions, I hope authorities can put an end to these false threats so passengers can feel safe again.”

    Aviation Security: A Call for Digital Vigilance

    With the rise in online bomb threats, aviation security has expanded its scope to monitor social media and digital platforms closely. Security agencies are intensifying their surveillance efforts to track and identify the sources of these hoaxes. By coordinating with airlines, airport authorities, and law enforcement, the government aims to clamp down on this digital menace and enhance the safety of air travel.

    This increase in hoax threats has highlighted the importance of public cooperation in maintaining airport security. Authorities urge the public to report any suspicious activity and refrain from sharing unverified threats, as these only contribute to the disruption of travel and endanger public safety.

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  • Rajasthan Tragedy: 12 Dead, Over 40 Injured in Sik
    My India Times    2024-11-07  15

    Rajasthan Tragedy: 12 Dead, Over 40 Injured in Sik

    In a tragic road accident in Rajasthan's Sikar district, 12 people lost their lives and more than 40 others sustained injuries after a bus traveling from Salasar collided with a culvert near Laxmangarh. The accident occurred on Tuesday around 2 p.m., sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting immediate response from police and medical services.

    Details of the Collision

    According to the Rajasthan Police, the private bus was on its way from the religious town of Salasar, a popular pilgrimage destination, when it veered off course and struck a concrete culvert near Laxmangarh. The collision was forceful, causing severe damage to the front of the bus and trapping multiple passengers inside. District Superintendent of Police (SP) Bhuvan Bhushan Yadav reported that initial investigations suggest the driver may have lost control due to high speed or a mechanical failure, although further examination is ongoing.

    Local police and emergency services rushed to the site, working diligently to rescue those trapped inside the wreckage. The injured passengers were promptly transported to nearby hospitals in Laxmangarh and Sikar, with several in critical condition requiring urgent care.

    Medical Response and Patient Condition

    Medical personnel at SK Hospital in Sikar reported that they received 37 injured passengers, two of whom were declared dead upon arrival, while three more succumbed to injuries during treatment. Seven critically injured patients were referred to larger medical facilities in Jaipur for specialized care, while 22 to 23 others are currently undergoing treatment in Sikar.

    Dr. Mahendra Khichad, Superintendent of SK Hospital, expressed the severity of the injuries, stating, “The condition of many injured is serious, and our teams are doing their best to provide immediate and necessary care. Additional medical support has been mobilized, and arrangements have been made for those who need advanced treatment in Jaipur.”

    Official Responses and Community Reactions

    In response to the accident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs. 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured. The Prime Minister conveyed his condolences to the victims’ families, stating, “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the Sikar accident. My thoughts are with the grieving families, and I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

    Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also expressed his condolences, directing district authorities to ensure that the injured receive the best possible treatment. He assured affected families that the state government would provide necessary support during this difficult time. The local administration is coordinating with medical facilities to ensure smooth and effective treatment for the injured and to facilitate communication with the families of those affected.

    Witness Accounts and Scene of the Accident

    Witnesses at the scene described the immediate aftermath as chaotic, with many villagers rushing to help the injured. Passengers were reportedly trapped inside the bus following the collision, and locals joined forces with emergency responders to assist in the rescue efforts. Some passengers, who managed to free themselves from the wreckage, described the moment of impact as sudden and terrifying, with many thrown from their seats by the force of the collision.

    One of the passengers, who sustained minor injuries, recounted, “It all happened so fast. The bus swerved, and the next thing I knew, there was a loud crash. People were screaming, and some of us were pinned under seats or thrown forward. I’m grateful to be alive but heartbroken for those who didn’t make it.”

    Causes Under Investigation

    The police are currently investigating the root causes of the accident, focusing on the driver’s actions and the bus’s mechanical condition. Authorities suspect that either speeding or a mechanical failure could have caused the bus to lose control. SP Bhuvan Bhushan Yadav indicated that they are examining CCTV footage from nearby areas and speaking to survivors to piece together the events leading up to the collision. The bus will also undergo a thorough mechanical inspection to determine if a fault in the vehicle played a role in the crash.

    Calls for Road Safety and Infrastructure Improvements

    The incident has sparked renewed discussions on road safety and infrastructure, particularly in high-traffic areas and routes popular among pilgrims. Community leaders and residents are calling for stricter traffic regulations and safety measures, especially in regions with heavy pilgrimage traffic, where drivers are often under pressure to complete journeys quickly.

    As Rajasthan continues to witness an influx of tourists and pilgrims, road safety measures are becoming increasingly critical. Local officials are urging the government to increase monitoring of speed limits, driver fatigue, and vehicle conditions to prevent future tragedies.

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  • 50-Year-Old Woman Brutally Murdered in Jodhpur, Bo
    My India Times   2024-11-07  16

    50-Year-Old Woman Brutally Murdered in Jodhpur, Bo

    In a shocking incident, the body of 50-year-old Anita Chaudhary, who had been reported missing for three days, was found brutally dismembered and buried in a 10-foot-deep pit in Jodhpur’s Gangana village. Rajasthan Police, investigating her disappearance, made the grim discovery on Wednesday, October 30, when they located her remains at the residence of a close family acquaintance.

    Case Background and Discovery

    Anita Chaudhary, a local beautician, was last seen leaving her beauty parlour around 2:30 p.m. Her family filed a missing person report when she failed to return home. According to her son, Anita shared a close, trusting relationship with the accused, Gulamuddin, who ran a sewing shop near her business. This connection prompted police to look into the people she regularly interacted with, leading them to Gulamuddin’s residence in Gangana.

    Investigation and the Role of Eyewitnesses

    As part of their investigation, the police retraced her final movements and spoke to a taxi driver who had reportedly driven Anita on the day she went missing. The driver revealed he had dropped her near a house in Gangana village belonging to Gulamuddin. However, when police reached the location, the accused was not present, raising suspicions.

    After questioning family members in the area, police uncovered a grim sequence of events. The accused’s relatives informed authorities that Anita’s body had been dismembered and disposed of in a pit on the property. With precise cuts to her throat, arms, and legs, investigators believe a grinder may have been used to dismember her body.

    Trust and Betrayal

    The horrific nature of the crime has left the community in shock, especially considering the close relationship Anita had with her alleged killer. Anita’s son reported that she had regarded Gulamuddin as a brother, a bond that had spanned decades. Police officials speculate that this trust may have led Anita to visit the accused’s residence willingly, ultimately leading to her tragic end.

    According to preliminary findings, it is suspected that Anita may have been lured into the residence under the guise of familiarity and trust. Authorities are now investigating what could have motivated such an extreme act of betrayal, as they work to gather further evidence. Currently, Gulamuddin’s wife is in custody as police search for additional suspects and motives.

    Reactions from Family and Community

    Anita Chaudhary’s murder has sent shockwaves through Jodhpur and beyond, sparking calls for justice and leaving her family devastated. Her son, who first reported her missing, expressed his disbelief and anguish over the gruesome betrayal. “We trusted him as family. My mother saw him as a brother. I cannot believe that someone so close could have committed such a horrific crime,” he said.

    Residents of Gangana village and nearby communities have been left shaken, grappling with the reality of such a heinous act occurring in their midst. Many in the area are now questioning relationships that they once believed to be trustworthy, as news of the brutal killing spreads.

    Police Response and Ongoing Investigation

    The Rajasthan Police have intensified their investigation, working to uncover the full details surrounding Anita’s murder. Investigators are piecing together evidence from the crime scene and statements from witnesses to build a comprehensive understanding of what happened. The authorities believe that further questioning of the accused and those close to him may reveal additional motives and accomplices involved in the crime.

    A senior police official commented on the nature of the case, highlighting that, “Such brutality and betrayal is rare, even in cases of personal grievances. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in close relationships.”

    As the investigation proceeds, police are also looking into any prior disputes or grievances that may have led to this violent act. They are working closely with forensic experts to analyze the dismemberment process, particularly the suspected use of a grinder, which adds a disturbing layer to an already gruesome case.

    Calls for Justice and Community Safety

    The community has rallied around Anita Chaudhary’s family, expressing outrage over the brutal killing and demanding justice for the deceased. Local leaders and residents have expressed concerns about safety, particularly for women, and are calling on law enforcement to strengthen measures to prevent such crimes.

    Anita’s case serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of misplaced trust, stirring debates around community safety and the need for increased awareness about potential risks, even among close associates. As police continue their investigation, many are hopeful that justice will be served swiftly.

    …
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  • Indian Air Force Helicopter Makes Emergency Landin
    My India Times    2024-11-07  3

    Indian Air Force Helicopter Makes Emergency Landin

    An Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter en route from Jodhpur to Jaipur was forced to make an emergency landing in the Merta area of Nagaur, Rajasthan, on Wednesday. The landing, prompted by a technical issue, took place safely in a farm field near Jasnagar, a small village in Nagaur district. All occupants on board, including Wing Commander Pal Singh, are reported to be safe. This incident drew a substantial crowd of locals, fascinated by the unexpected sight of a military helicopter landing in the rural fields.

    The helicopter was one of two IAF choppers traveling from Jodhpur to Jaipur for a routine training exercise when the pilot detected a minor fault in the aircraft. In response, the pilot took prompt action, initiating a safe emergency landing to prevent any potential risk. The IAF pilot’s quick thinking and expertise were crucial in managing a controlled landing, ensuring that neither the crew nor nearby civilians were harmed.

    After the helicopter safely touched down, a team of IAF technicians was dispatched to the scene. According to local police, who assisted in the immediate aftermath of the landing, the technical team was able to quickly identify and fix the problem. The helicopter resumed its journey shortly afterward, taking off once the technical issues were resolved. According to Merta’s Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Ramkaran Malinda, the technical issue was minor and addressed with efficiency, allowing the crew to complete the training mission without further delay.

    Local Response to the Incident

    The emergency landing generated significant curiosity and excitement among residents of Jasnagar and neighboring villages. Witnesses reported seeing the two IAF helicopters flying together when one suddenly descended and landed in the fields, prompting them to gather near the site. For many villagers, this marked a rare and thrilling encounter with the Indian military’s air operations.

    Local authorities, including the police, quickly secured the area to ensure safety and facilitate the work of the technical team. The police managed crowd control as the IAF team inspected the helicopter. The defense official overseeing the operation expressed gratitude for the local administration's cooperation, which helped maintain a smooth and secure environment for the technical evaluation and repairs.

    IAF's Commitment to Safety and Preparedness

    This incident underscores the Indian Air Force’s dedication to safety and rapid response in handling technical malfunctions. Emergency landings are rare but necessary precautions when unforeseen issues arise during flight. The IAF follows stringent protocols to ensure that pilots are trained to handle such scenarios with precision and care.

    An IAF spokesperson commented on the event, stating, “Our pilots are highly trained to address unexpected challenges and put safety first. While our aircraft are regularly serviced and undergo extensive checks, minor technical issues can still arise. We are grateful that the crew, led by Wing Commander Pal Singh, was able to handle the situation without harm.”

    Technical Response and Prompt Resolution

    The emergency response demonstrated the efficiency of the IAF’s technical team. Shortly after the landing, an expert team was on-site to inspect the aircraft. They quickly identified the glitch and executed the necessary repairs, allowing the helicopter to continue its journey. The technical issue reportedly involved a minor fault that posed no major threat but warranted the immediate action of the pilot to prevent any escalation.

    The IAF conducts regular maintenance and testing of its helicopters to ensure they meet operational standards, but minor issues can arise, especially during routine training exercises that involve extensive flying hours. A defense official noted that these protocols reflect the Air Force’s commitment to maintaining high standards of operational safety.

    Community Reactions and Local Support

    The incident also highlighted the support and enthusiasm of local communities toward India’s defense forces. Many villagers expressed pride in being able to assist the IAF during the emergency and were eager to witness the helicopter up close, an experience rarely seen in rural areas. Some locals brought water and refreshments for the crew and technical team, reflecting the community’s solidarity and respect for the armed forces.

    One resident of Jasnagar shared his perspective: “It’s not every day that we see an IAF helicopter land in our village. We were a bit worried at first, but when we saw that the officers were safe, everyone was excited. Many of us stayed until the helicopter took off again to show our support.”

    Strategic Importance of Training Exercises

    The IAF’s training missions are essential for preparing pilots and crew for real-world scenarios, including handling technical issues in various conditions. This incident illustrates the importance of such exercises in honing the skills and resilience of India’s defense personnel. Training missions across varied terrains and regions ensure that pilots are equipped to navigate both urban and rural environments, an essential skill given India’s diverse geography.

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