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Congress tightens grip on factionalism in Rajasthan

June 22, 2025, 2:00 am

Congress high command closely monitors Rajasthan factionalism, aiming to strengthen party organisation and unity.

NEW DELHI: The Congress high command is keeping a close eye on factionalism in Rajasthan, as the party lost the last election due to internal divisions. This time, the high command is trying to control factionalism in Rajasthan, where the party is strong in terms of organisation. The existing team is being strengthened to curb factionalism effectively. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, is personally engaged in campaigns to control factionalism in weaker states.

Rajasthan’s state in charge, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, recently held a meeting with state leaders in Delhi to gather information about the state’s situation. State President Govind Singh Dotasra, MLA party leader Tikaram Jully, incharge co-secretary Chiranjeev Rao, Rutvik Makwana, and Punam Paswan attended the meeting. These leaders submitted the state’s report to the party’s national president, Mallikarjun Kharge, on Saturday.

After meeting Kharge, the leaders shared details about ongoing campaigns and programmes being run by the party organisation in Rajasthan. Pending appointments in the state were also discussed. The high command emphasised further strengthening the state organisation. Gandhi may soon meet the state leaders personally.

Rajasthan is currently the only state where most district and city committees have been formed. Block committees will be announced soon. The remaining 13 districts, including Ajmer and Barmer, will also get new presidents shortly. The team of Dotasra and Jully is successfully mounting a strong front against the state government. However, National General Secretary Sachin Pilot and his faction are trying to convince the high command to let them become active again in the state.

The high command remains unconvinced by their activism and has asked Pilot to focus on his responsibility in Chhattisgarh, where he is the in charge. Pilot’s activism in Rajasthan is seen as promoting factionalism. During his recent visit to Jaipur, Kharge gave clear instructions to Pilot’s supporters to avoid lobbying and making controversial statements. Factionalism in Rajasthan Congress is well known.

On one side is the bloc led by former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, and on the other is Pilot’s faction. The conflict is largely centred around the post of state president. Gandhi has indicated several times that there is no need for change in the state leadership, as both appointments were made by him. Dotasra was appointed president by Gandhi after Pilot was sacked five years ago. Pilot had rebelled against the Gehlot government in 2020 along with some MLAs but failed to topple the government.

Following this, he was removed from the post of state president. Although Sachin is now trying to mend fences, a comeback in state politics appears difficult. Gandhi is not in favour of changing the current appointments. Congress is focusing on strengthening organisations where they are working well and focusing on weaker states where leaders are inactive. Consequently, Rajasthan has been kept away from programmes like organisational creation.

Rajasthan launches water conservation movement

June 15, 2025, 2:05 am

Rajasthan govt launched the campaign to revive water bodies, tackling severe groundwater crisis statewide.

JAIPUR: The Bhajan Lal Sharma-led government in Rajasthan has been in office for over a year and a half, and during this time, it has taken several major decisions. However, what truly stands out is that Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has understood the sentiments of the people of Rajasthan by launching a significant initiative—the ‘Vande Ganga Water Conservation Public Campaign’—to preserve water in the state.

This campaign, aimed at rejuvenating dried-up water sources, began at the historic Ramgarh Dam in Jaipur, where Sharma himself participated in shramdaan (voluntary labour) to kick off the effort. A crucial aspect of this initiative is the plan to link the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP)—which could prove to be a boon for Rajasthan—with the Ramgarh Dam.

The plan involves connecting it to the Isarda Dam to revive this once-thriving water body. Ramgarh Dam was once renowned for its natural beauty and utility. It provided drinking water to villages and hamlets spread over more than 800 square kilometres and supported irrigation for farmers. However, over time, encroachments in the dam’s catchment area increased, and people began to occupy the river streams that were its main water sources.

In 1981, Ramgarh Dam hosted the Asian Rowing Championships, putting it on the tourism map. But due to encroachments and neglect over the years, the dam has been reduced to a mere name in government records. Around 14 feet of silt has accumulated in the dam bed, destroying its original structure. Although previous governments attempted revival efforts, none succeeded. Now, Sharma has shown foresight by launching this campaign. He is not only monitoring progress but also visiting districts himself and assigning responsibilities to his ministers to ensure the effective implementation of water conservation efforts across the state.

Rajasthan is India’s largest state and is geographically located in an arid zone. A significant portion of it lies in the Thar Desert, where rainfall is extremely scarce. Rajasthan receives only 1.16% of the country’s surface water and 1.72% of its groundwater, despite being home to 5.67% of India’s population and covering 10.41% of the country’s land area. Groundwater has become the primary source of water supply in Rajasthan.

However, due to excessive exploitation, erratic and low rainfall, and a growing population, the groundwater table is steadily declining. Recognising this urgent crisis, the current government has made groundwater conservation a key priority. Due to the scarcity of surface water sources, there is a heavy reliance on groundwater in the state. Over-extraction has led to a continuous drop in water levels across various regions. This has not only worsened drinking water shortages but also severely affected agriculture.

Rapid population growth, agricultural expansion, increasing industrialisation, and urbanisation have caused a drastic rise in groundwater extraction. Data reveals the seriousness of the situation: according to the Central Ground Water Board, out of Rajasthan’s 302 blocks, 216 fall under the over-exploited (dark zone) category, 23 are critical, and 22 are semi-critical. Only 38 blocks (12.58%) are categorised as safe, while 3 blocks with saline groundwater were not assessed in the report. Back in 1984, when the first assessment of 236 blocks was done, 203 blocks were in the safe category and only 12 blocks were over-exploited.

This sharp deterioration highlights the gravity of the issue. To address this crisis, various groundwater conservation and replenishment measures are being implemented by both the state government and local communities. Among these, the Vande Ganga Jal Sanrakshan Jan Abhiyan, launched on June 5, 2025, by the Bhajan Lal government, is being regarded as a milestone initiative. Local villagers recall that in their childhood, the Ramgarh Dam used to be brimming with water, and the fields were lush and green because of it. But large farmhouses and encroachments by land mafias destroyed the dam’s flow area.

Now, this government initiative has rekindled hope among the people. Villagers believe that if water returns to the dam, it will not only benefit farmers but also create employment opportunities for the youth.

Rehab centres in Raj discover hidden musical talent in beggars

May 29, 2025, 12:25 am

The Rajasthan government’s initiative to bring beggars to the mainstream of society seems to be yielding desired results. In the last two years, about 800 beggars have been rehabilitated and trained and Most of them have given up beg- ging.

While some of them have learned parlour work, some other haven shown interest in sewing. A good number of them are even taking training in playing harmonium, tabla, sarangi, algoja, dholak, etc.

Avinash Gehlot, Minister, Social Justice and Empowerment Department, said “Our efforts are to make the state beggar-free. Training and rehabilitation is our priority. The government is working to connect them to the main- stream. Efforts are also be- ing made to connect their children with education.”

The state government runs a programme for the rehabilitation of beggars. At rehabilitation centres, they are given food and lodging besides imparting life skills. In the first stage, efforts are made to wean them off their bad habits. Before integrating them into the mainstream of society, they are placed under close supervision. Counselling is also provided. they are given training based on their interests. Apart from ‘Meri Pehal Sanstha’ located in Nangal Jaisa Bohra of Jhotwara, rehabilitation centres have been set up at three other places. Girraj Singh Shekhawat of Meri Pehal Sanstha said that hundreds of beggars have been trained at their centre so far.

Dr. Anita Gautam, a psychiatrist, said it is very important to understand the mental state of beggars and to bring them out of it. Today, the situation is such that beggars are also making their children do this work. It is very important to educate these children as well as to get their parents away from begging. For this, the government should run a big campaign across the state so that such people can be rehabilitated by giving them training.

Rehabilitation will not happen only by providing them houses or food from the government, but real rehabilitation is possible by training them in some work and employing them in it.

ACB Uncovers Massive Bribery Racket Involving Police And Mining Department

May 26, 2025, 11:32 pm

A major corruption scandal has surfaced during an Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) investigation, revealing entrenched bribery within the system. The probe found that ASP Surendra Sharma of the ACB allegedly collected a hefty monthly bribe of Rs 6 to Rs 8 lakh from various police stations across the district, along with a similar amount from the district’s transport department. Further inquiries revealed that Sharma was also regularly receiving kickbacks from officials allegedly supporting the illegal gravel mining mafia. Officials from the Forest and Mining Departments have been implicated, and the ACB plans to summon them for questioning. Earlier, the ACB issued notices to 12 police station officers and transport officials in Sawai Madhopur. Arrest preparations are underway, marking a significant crackdown on institutional corruption.

Preparations are underway to arrest the SHOs of eight police stations in Sawai Madhopur, along with four officers from the Transport Department, in the ongoing bribery case. The ACB headquarters has submitted a preliminary report to the Police Headquarters, based on information obtained during the interrogation of the arrested ASP, an inspector, and their two brokers. Acting on this report, the Police Headquarters has initiated strict action against the accused SHOs involved in the monthly bribery racket. This marks a significant step in the crackdown on corruption within the police and transport departments.

Police Stations Under Investigation

In the ongoing monthly bond case, the ACB is investigating police stations including Chauth ka Barwara, Barwara Kalan, Khandar, Rawanjna Dungar, Soorwal, Kotwali, Marlan Dungar, Mantown, and Kandara in Sawai Madhopur. The probe revealed that the arrested ASP Surendra Sharma and ACB inspector Soni were extorting a monthly bond of Rs 2 lakh from each police station officer in collusion with the gravel mafia. Sharma allegedly threatened officers who refused to pay, warning them of being caught red-handed taking bribes from the mafia. Using this fear of entrapment, the accused officers collected between Rs 6 to 8 lakh every month through this illegal racket.

Bribe Collection Network Spanned Multiple Departments

The ACB investigation also revealed that the arrested ASP and Inspector had activated agents to collect monthly bribes from the District Transport Department, Forest Department, and Mining Department offices in Sawai Madhopur. Besides private agents, the accused officers involved employees and officials from these departments in the bribery network. As part of the probe, the ACB arrested two private agents, Pradeep and Ramraj, along with District Transport Officer Punyaram Meena. Meena was responsible for delivering the monthly bribes from the Transport Department to the two ACB officers. Following his arrest, the ACB is now preparing to apprehend officials from the Forest and Mining Departments implicated in the bribery racket.

Ongoing Probe And Call Record Analysis

ACB Director General Dr Ravi Prakash Meharda stated that the information obtained from the interrogation of the five accused arrested in the Monthly Bond case is currently being verified. Additionally, the investigation is ongoing to gather evidence against other suspects based on call records from the arrested individuals’ mobile phones. As part of this process, notices have been issued summoning 12 other accused to the ACB headquarters for questioning.

PM Modi to Visit Rajasthan, Set to Launch 103 ‘Amrit Stations’

May 21, 2025, 7:07 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a trip to Rajasthan’s Bikaner district on Thursday to inaugurate the renovated Deshnoke railway station and lay the foundation stone for other development projects worth more than Rs. 26,000 crore, an official statement said.

On the occasion, the Prime Minister will also make an offering at the famous Karni Mata temple in Deshnoke and hold a public meeting in Palana.

The transformed Deshnoke station, close to the Karni Mata temple, takes cues from ancient temple design and has been reconfigured to support the enormous number of pilgrims. The station now provides enhanced passenger facilities, the statement added.

It is a big boost to passenger train services that PM Modi, on Saturday, will inaugurate the Bikaner-Mumbai Express train at Deshnoke. He will also lay a foundation stone and dedicate several development projects to the country, which will enhance infrastructure in railways, roads, power, and water supply.

A prominent highlight of the visit will be the virtual launching of 103 redeveloped ‘Amrit Stations’ in 86 districts of 18 states and Union territories, developed at an approximate cost of Rs. 1,100 crore.

Tomorrow, 22nd May is a landmark day for India’s railway infrastructure. The Amrit Stations will boost comfort, connectivity and celebrate our glorious culture! https://t.co/oYQSRKKogb

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 21, 2025

The Prime Minister will also lay emphasis on the Indian Railways’ drive for electrification. He will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various projects like the 58-km long Churu-Sadulpur rail link and completed electrification work like Suratgarh-Phalodi (336 km), Phulera-Degana (109 km), Udaipur-Himmatnagar (210 km), Phalodi-Jaisalmer (157 km), and Samdari-Barmer (129 km). These initiatives are a part of the overall effort to attain “100 per cent electrification”, optimizing energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

In the road infrastructure sector, PM Modi will initiate construction activity for three vehicular underpasses and development of various national highways. Seven road projects, already completed at a cost of over Rs. 4,850 crore, will be inaugurated to the nation. These projects are aimed at improving connectivity and logistics, particularly up to the India-Pakistan border, thus enhancing civilian movement and national security.

In addition to reiterating energy growth, the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for new solar power plants in Bikaner and Nawa (Didwana Kuchaman), as well as auxiliary transmission systems and power infrastructure to support the state’s power grid.

Apart from this, Modi will also dedicate and lay foundations for 25 significant projects undertaken by the state government. These cut across the health, water, infrastructure, and connectivity domains, reflecting the Centre’s and state’s common commitment towards comprehensive regional development.

Pakistan Attempts Drone Intrusion in Rajasthan Amid Heightened Tensions | Watch

May 9, 2025, 10:36 pm

Indian troops bring down a massive fleet of enemy drones over Pokhran in Rajasthan late Thursday evening, countering two consecutive drone attacks within 32 minutes. The failed attempts come amid the ongoing escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan.

Witnesses in surrounding villages recall hearing a loud buzzing sound followed by an explosion as interceptor systems spring into action. The Indian Air Force (IAF) spots several drones in the air above the border town and swiftly deploys its air defence systems. Authorities authenticate that Indian forces intercept any of the drones from entering strategic zones, shooting all of them down.

Indian Defence Systems Act Quickly

The IAF and ground defence troops engage the threat in real-time using kinetic missiles and electronic jamming technology. S-400 Triumf missile defence system and other radar platforms help intercept the drones before they can harm anything.

Latest drone attack by Pakistan in pokaran. Indian defence shot them down… pic.twitter.com/x6LteRy4xQ

— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) May 9, 2025

The defence experts opine that Pakistan deployed the drones to either collect sensitive intel or strike Indian military infrastructure. Investigators have retrieved wreckage and begun a forensic investigation. Preliminary evidence indicates the drones look like Turkish-origin Asisguard Songar models the same models Indian troops have previously detected on their border during cross-border drone incursions.

Pokhran Attack by Pakistan Follows Broader Aggression

This. event is another spike in what. seems to be a calculated Pakistani attempt to destabilise border regions. A day earlier, Pakistan undertook drone and missile attacks against Jammu and Pathankot, all of which Indian air defenses shot down.

The attacks come hot on the heels of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that left 26 civilians dead, including one Nepali citizen. In retaliation, Indian security forces conduct Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist infrastructure locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Indian defence authorities explain that the attacks are pinpoint and non-escalatory and stay away from any Pakistani defence facility.

Government Keeps Situation Under Close Watch

The Indian government has made no official statement regarding the Pokhran attacks. But senior defence and intelligence officials are watching the situation closely. Security personnel are still on the alert across all western and northern borders, with forward posts keeping up increased surveillance and vigilance protocols.

India is still maintaining that it will not accept cross-border terrorism and that it is committed to neutralising threats to national security.

Rajasthan On Red Alert: CM Holds Emergency Meeting, Announces Blackouts In Border Districts

May 9, 2025, 3:49 am

In the face of escalating tensions on the India-Pakistan border, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma called a top-level emergency meeting at the Chief Minister’s Office last night. Participants included Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police, DG Intelligence, and ADG Law and Order to review the situation and arrange a prompt response.

Authorities in some of the border districts such as Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Sriganganagar issued a red alert and ordered blackouts in major urban areas as a precautionary measure. CM Sharma stated that he would personally monitor the situation on a daily basis and has cancelled leaves for all government personnel until further notice.

In a prompt reaction to the unfolding crisis, the Chief Minister sanctioned the disbursement of 5 crore each to the border districts affected to further prepare for emergencies. He also directed the mobilization of additional Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC) troops, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams, fire brigades, and ambulances to augment local response capacity.

The precautionary steps follow increased military movement along the Line of Control and International Border, leading to greater alertness in northern states. Authorities stressed needing to stay alert and prepared to act on any further increase in activity.

Pakistan Deploys Heavy Military Tanks Near Indian Border As Cross-Border Firing Intensifies Rapidly

May 8, 2025, 10:00 pm

Tensions at the India-Pakistan border have risen sharply, with heavy firing and more troop movement reported in several sectors. Intelligence sources have indicated that Pakistan has started mobilizing its troops along the Indian border, specifically around Rahim Yar Khan and Bahawalpur districts bordering Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer and Bikaner.

This comes on the heels of the recent drone strikes in Jammu, following which fierce firing has broken out along the International Border (IB) and the Line of Control (LoC). Confirmation is there that heavy fire and shelling are being witnessed in areas such as Poonch, Kupwara, and Samba. There have also been reports of explosions coming from the Punjab and Rajasthan border regions, which indicates a grave escalation.

The Indian military is kept on high alert, watching every development closely, with the stand-by response system in place to respond to any more provocations. The abrupt escalation of tensions has caused worries of an all-out confrontation as the diplomatic channels are quiet amidst the increased build-up of troops.

Blackout in Barmer, Rajasthan: A Nationwide Mock Drill | Watch

May 7, 2025, 9:18 pm

Temporary blackout struck the Barmer district of Rajasthan earlier in the day as part of a countrywide mock drill directed by the Indian government following the Pahalgam attack. The drill, which was carried out by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), sought to test the readiness of India’s infrastructure and emergency mechanisms.

#WATCH | Blackout in Barmer of Rajasthan, as part of the mock drill ordered by the MHA. pic.twitter.com/LGypTDQxqq

— ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Purpose of the Mock Drill

The blackout, as inconvenient as it was, was a planned drill intended to mimic a mass power outage. Brief interruptions were felt by local citizens, but authorities assured the people that the drill was necessary in order to assess and enhance the response mechanisms of the country during crises.

Response to the Pahalgam Attack

The mock drill follows the Pahalgam attack, which put security on high alert, stressing the need for improved preparedness and higher inter-agency coordination. The MHA has been exercising the same across India to improve key sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and emergency services against possible interruptions, including natural disasters and cyber-attacks.

Enhancing Emergency Response Systems

MHA officials highlighted that the drills are vital to national security as they assist authorities in identifying any loopholes in the existing emergency response mechanisms and enhancing coordination. The drills, though inconvenient in the short run, are regarded as essential in guaranteeing that India’s infrastructure is not only strong but also capable of recovering rapidly from unexpected adversity.

Authorities confirmed that this exercise would be followed by more drills across the country, further solidifying the country’s preparedness to handle large-scale disruptions effectively.

Operation Sindoor: India’s Military Response to Pahalgam Attack

India, on May 7, 2025, carried out Operation Sindoor, a series of attacks by air targeting nine places in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. It was an instant retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam attack when militants had killed 26 civilians, most of whom were Hindu tourists, in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.

India’s Ministry of Home Affairs characterized the strikes as a measured response to destroy terrorist infrastructure associated with groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The operation hit sites such as Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Muzaffarabad, which are thought to be centers of these groups.

Rajasthan Launches Crackdown On Bangladeshi Infiltrators

May 2, 2025, 1:20 am

In response to growing anger across the country, following the mass murder in the Pahalgam terrorist attack, the state government has swiftly begun implementing the central government’s guidelines. On the state’s directive, the Police Headquarters has initiated the identification of Pakistani citizens, with plans to deport them to the Attari border. Simultaneously, a special campaign targeting Bangladeshi infiltrators has been launched to identify and deport those residing illegally in the state.

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma convened a special meeting at his residence on Wednesday evening, where he gave instructions to the Home Department. In line with these directives, the Police Headquarters has instructed every District Superintendent of Police, including both Commissionerates, to intensify efforts in locating and deporting illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. The government is taking these steps to address the growing concerns and restore security and order in the state.

According to data from the Police Headquarters, 600 Bangladeshi nationals have been identified living in the state so far. Following instructions from Sharma on Wednesday to prioritise the identification and detention of Bangladeshi intruders, the Police Headquarters has intensified its efforts. As a result, this number is expected to exceed 1,000. Most of the identified Bangladeshi intruders have been found in the state capital. In a previous campaign, 550 Bangladeshis were discovered in Jaipur, while 30 were found in Ajmer and 20 in Alwar. With the special campaign initiated on May 1 under the Chief Minister’s directive, authorities anticipate the number of Bangladeshi nationals across the state, including Jaipur, could reach into the thousands.

Gangs smuggling Bangladeshi intruders active

Police sources stated that due to the previous Congress government’s policies, a large number of Bangladeshi Muslims began arriving in Jaipur, often posing as labourers. Gangs were reportedly activated to facilitate their entry, using trains arriving late at night. These gangs would shelter the illegal intruders in under-construction houses, where they were employed as labourers, often under the cover of darkness. Over time, these individuals were gradually settled in slum areas.

Command assigned to DG Intelligence

State Police Chief U.R. Sahu confirmed that, under the Chief Minister’s instructions, the task of identifying and deporting Bangladeshi intruders has been handed to DG (Intelligence) Sanjay Agarwal. Agarwal, in coordination with central agencies, is responsible for sending the intruders to detention centres in Alwar before deporting them back to Bangladesh.

Police launch early morning raids

On the instructions of Agarwal, Commissionerate’s ADCP (Law and Order) Dr Rameshwar Singh held a late-night meeting with the DCPs from East, West, North, and South on Wednesday, formulating a strategy for the arrest of Bangladeshi intruders. The strategy was strictly mandated for implementation. Police stations were directed to launch special campaigns in their respective areas, raiding the identified hideouts of Bangladeshi nationals before sunrise, checking their documents, and arresting those living illegally. These individuals will be sent to the detention centre in Alwar. According to police sources, most of the Bangladeshi intruders are residing in areas such as Bhankrota, VKI, Harmara, Kanota, Bagrana, Bassi, Jhalana Kachhi Basti, Sanganer, Kho Nagoriyan, Ramganj, Jaisinghpura Khor, Amer, and Nai Ki Thadi within the Commissionerate. Three months ago, the Bhankrota police station had identified and arrested 19 Bangladeshi nationals.

Bangladeshi gang’s criminal activity

Ten years ago, a gang of Bangladeshis had committed a shocking robbery and rape in the Commissionerate. During that time, Bangladeshi miscreants had committed robbery by taking a family hostage in Vaishali Nagar. The miscreants stabbed the members of the victim’s family with knives and left them bleeding and raped the woman, who was identified only after the victim’s obscene clipping went viral during the robbery, but the Commissionerate has not been able to arrest the kingpin of this robbery gang from Bangladesh till date.

Commissionerate raids yield results

Under the leadership of Commissioner Biju George Joseph and following the instructions from ADCP Dr Rameshwar Singh, the police have launched a campaign to raid the hideouts of Bangladeshi nationals early in the morning. So far, the police have apprehended 200 suspects, of which 80 were found without valid Indian citizenship documents. Authorities are currently verifying the documents of the detained individuals. Once confirmed as illegal infiltrators, these Bangladeshi nationals will be transferred to the detention centre in Alwar.

Concerns for West Bengal Hindus

Bangladeshi infiltrators have not only impacted the local population but have also victimised Hindus from West Bengal who came to the state in search of livelihood. These West Bengal Hindus claim that they are being harassed by the police under the pretext of identifying Bangladeshi infiltrators. Despite the fact that married women in their families can be easily identified as Hindus by the sindoor in their hair parting, police have arrested them from their homes, accusing them of being illegal migrants. A similar incident occurred on Thursday in Udaipur’s Ghantaghar police station area, where Hindu artisans from West Bengal, who make gold and silver jewellery, were arrested, taken to the police station, and subjected to interrogation and mistreatment like criminals.

Twelve Years On, Government College Jaipur Still Awaits New Building

May 2, 2025, 1:10 am

The Higher Education Department’s negligence has come to light following revelations about the dire situation at Government College Jaipur, which has been operating out of a nine-room school building for the past 12 years. Despite the completion of a new college building six months ago, it has not yet been officially handed over to the college. This ongoing delay is severely affecting students’ academic futures. Due to inadequate infrastructure, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has refused to grant approval for key courses in the upcoming academic session, meaning the college will be unable to offer admissions to professional programmes like MBA, BBA, and BCA. This has left many students uncertain about their educational prospects.

The situation is especially concerning because the college had already enrolled students in MBA, BBA, and BCA courses last year and conducted the first semester exams. However, Rajasthan University has now denied affiliation, jeopardising the students’ degrees. The root of the issue lies in the college’s lack of an occupancy certificate for its new building, a critical requirement for AICTE approval. Ironically, the new building is ready, but its official handover has not occurred, putting the future of students at risk.

College operating in cramped space

Government College Jaipur, established in 2013, has been functioning in a temporary arrangement at Raja Ramdev Poddar Mahavidyalaya near Gandhi Circle on JLN Marg, occupying just nine rooms on the first floor. Twelve years later, the situation remains the same, with only five classrooms available for nearly 3,000 students. The rest of the rooms are used for administrative purposes, such as the principal’s office, the staff room, and a computer lab. The lack of space is so severe that students are forced to sit on the floor in corridors during classes, a situation that stands in stark contrast to the more comfortable settings of schoolchildren in nearby classrooms.

Despite offering courses like B.Sc., the college lacks even a basic science lab. Principal Professor Snigdha Sharma has acknowledged the severe infrastructure limitations, noting the challenges faced by students and staff. She praised the cooperation of teachers and students in keeping the college running smoothly but called on the government to immediately hand over the new building to secure the future of thousands of students.

Construction delays

In 2015, former Higher Education Minister Kalicharan Saraf allocated 27,876 square meters of land within the Raja Ramdev Poddar Government Higher Secondary School campus for the construction of Government College Jaipur’s new building. A budget of Rs 100 crore was sanctioned for the project, with Rs 38 crore released as the first installment. The initial work, including the basement and plinth level, was completed at a cost of Rs 9.5 crore.

However, after a change in government, the construction of the college building came to a standstill. In February 2022, the succeeding administration introduced a new plan to develop the Mahatma Gandhi Centre for Excellence on the same land, with a revised budget of Rs 355 crore, including Rs 100 crore for Government College Jaipur. Construction of the building was completed approximately six months ago, but due to the absence of a formal inauguration, the new facility remains unused.

Meanwhile, the college continues to function out of just nine rooms in a shared school building at Gandhi Circle, despite catering to over 3,000 students. These rooms include space for the principal, staff room, office, and one computer lab, leaving only five classrooms for all courses.

MLA Kalicharan Saraf reiterated the urgency of the matter, stating that he has already written to the government, requesting that the newly constructed building be handed over to the college without delay. He emphasised that shifting the college to its designated premises would not only provide a better learning environment for students but also help resolve the issues related to course recognition.

Rajasthan Leads In Preventing Child Marriage; Challenges Remain Amid Legal Efforts

May 1, 2025, 12:32 am

Child marriage remains a deeply rooted global concern, with over 640 million women and girls worldwide having been married before the age of 18. Every year, approximately 12 million girls become child brides, often driven by poverty, social norms, and gender inequality. Despite being outlawed under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2006), the practice continues in various parts of India, including Rajasthan — a state showing commendable progress but still facing serious challenges.

Rajasthan: Progress Amid Ongoing Challenges

According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–21), one in four women aged 20–24 in Rajasthan were married before 18. Districts such as Bhilwara (53.2%), Karauli (53%), Jaisalmer (51.8%), Nagaur (50.6%), Barmer and Alwar (49.8%) remain hotspots. However, Rajasthan recorded a 12-percentage point decline in child marriage from NFHS-4 to NFHS-5 — the highest reduction among Indian states — improving its national rank from 25th to 22nd.

Disturbing National Trends

Sharing the facts with The Daily Guardian, Shafqat Hussain, Social Policy Specialist at UNICEF Rajasthan, said that although Rajasthan has improved, the number of child marriages is still higher than the national average. According to the UNICEF report, there are more than 22.6 crore child brides in the country. Out of these, 10.2 crore girls were married before the age of 15 years. One out of every 3 girls are married before the age of 15. According to the data released by the National Family Health Survey Report 2019-21, 25.4% of girls in the state are married before the age of 18. That is, about 25 out of 100 girls are married as children. Even now, child marriage in rural areas is about 13.2% more than in cities. According to the NFH survey report, 15.1% of girls are getting married as children in urban areas, whereas 28.3% of girls get married as children in rural areas.

State Action And Legal Interventions

Rajesh Dogiwal, an official from ICPS, shared with The Daily Guardian that government departments, NGOs, and local bodies are working in close coordination to prevent and annul child marriages The state has rolled out various schemes to tackle child marriage and promote child welfare, including the Mukhyamantri Rajshri Yojana, Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS), Palanhar Yojana, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and Mukhyamantri Hunar Vikas Yojana for skill development.

Stories Of Courage And Change

Dr Kriti Bharti, child rights activist and founder of Sarathi Trust, has played a pivotal role in annulling 52 child marriages in Rajasthan, including 10 on Akha Teej alone. Her organisation has also prevented 2,100 child marriages, rehabilitated 25,000 children and women, and administered mass oaths to over 50,000 people against performing child marriages.

Sheetal (name changed), a 20-year-old from Tonk, was married at just two years of age during a family function in 2003. She discovered the marriage as she grew older and feared it would crush her dream of becoming an IAS officer. Depressed and desperate, she reached out to Dr Bharti of Sarathi Trust, who supported her in filing for annulment in Tonk Family Court. Despite facing threats and the sudden death of her father due to stress, Sheetal bravely pursued justice. With Dr Bharti’s legal support, the court annulled her child marriage—the first such case in Tonk district.

Sharmila (name changed) of Tinwari tehsil was married in 2003 to a young man from Osian tehsil. At the time of child marriage, Sharmila was only two and a half years old. But due to the ceremony of Mausar in the family, she was tied in the shackles of child marriage. Sharmila, in a state of depression, took the help of social media and contacted Dr Bharti, Managing Trustee and Rehabilitation Psychologist of Sarathi Trust, who is among the World Top Ten Activists and BBC 100 Inspiring Women. With the help of Dr Bharti, Sharmila filed a case in Jodhpur Family Court, pleading for annulment of child marriage. The Family Court annulled Sharmila’s child marriage and freed her from the bondage.

NFHS-5 data reveals that girls with no education face a 48% risk of being married before 18, compared to only 4% among girls with higher education. Poverty also plays a major role: 40% of girls in the lowest wealth quintile were married early, compared to 8% in the highest. While Rajasthan’s urban areas show better indicators, the rate of improvement in rural areas between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5 has been higher, suggesting positive momentum in traditionally underserved regions. With the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of ending child marriage by 2030, Rajasthan’s approach — combining legal, educational, and grassroots efforts — may serve as a model for the rest of the country.

Rajasthan Woman Cop Dances to ‘Jai Jai Shiv Shankar’ | WATCH

April 18, 2025, 5:47 pm

It’s not an easy job to be a police officer, it requires long hours, night shifts, and tremendous commitment. But in the midst of their busy schedules, one officer was able to steal the show with her energetic moves and dance steps. Sub-inspector Teena Sogarwal of Rajasthan recently gave a spirited performance on the song Jai Jai Shiv Shankar at the Rajasthan Police Foundation Day celebration.

The incident occurred at the police district office in Sawai Madhopur, where Sogarwal, in her colorful traditional outfit, danced vigorously to the hit Rajesh Khanna tune. The moment was captured in a video, which went viral on social media, depicting her having the time of her life on stage.

Her energetic performance was greeted by claps and cheers from the crowd, comprising among others, dignitaries like Superintendent of Police Mamta Gupta and District Collector Shubham Chaudhary and her fellow officers.

Watch here:

?ड्यूटी के साथ-साथ अपनी नृत्य कला से चर्चाओं में रहने वाली वजीरपुर थानाधिकारी टीनू सोगरवाल द्वारा राजस्थान पुलिस के स्थापना दिवस के खास मौके पर “जय-जय शिवशंकर” गाने पर दी गई प्रस्तुति भी देखी जाए. pic.twitter.com/8e59NqO4CS

— रंग राजस्थानी – Rang Rajasthani (@RangRajasthani_) April 17, 2025

The sub-inspector eventually posted the video on Facebook, and it spread rapidly on other media platforms. Social media was filled with comments complimenting her talent. One commented, “Excellent performance. Multi-talented personality,” while another added, “Jai Ho, very beautiful dance, madam; you are the pride of the police department.”

On X (formerly Twitter), one of the users retweeting the video said, “Along with her duties, Teena Sogarwal, who remains in the spotlight for her dancing talent, danced to the song ‘Jai-Jai Shivshankar’ on Rajasthan Police Foundation Day, which is worth watching.”

Interestingly, this is not the first time Sogarwal has demonstrated her dancing abilities. Her social media is full of videos of her dancing to hit Hindi songs. During Holi, she was dancing to Khaike Paan Banaras Wala, covered in bright colors and accompanied by others in the celebration.

IIT Baba Defends Ganja Consumption: ‘Every Baba Consumes’ Following Arrest | WATCH

March 4, 2025, 11:51 am

Abhay Singh, popularly known as “IIT Baba,” was briefly detained in Jaipur after police discovered a small amount of marijuana in his possession at a hostel in the Riddhi Siddhi area. The incident has sparked mixed reactions, highlighting the clash between traditional spiritual practices and modern drug laws.

Incident Details

Local police received a complaint about a disturbance at the hostel and promptly arrived at the scene. During their investigation, officers found a minor quantity of ganja (marijuana) on Singh. A case was registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. However, since the amount recovered fell within the legally permissible limit for personal use, Singh was released shortly after his detention.

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VIDEO | Amid reports of his arrest, Maha Kumbh fame Abhay Singh, alias ‘IIT Baba’ was seen celebrating his birthday with followers in Jaipur. pic.twitter.com/WhA8aTIUv2

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 3, 2025

जयपुर में शिप्रा पथ पुलिस ने IIT बाबा को पहले हिरासत में लिया कुछ देर बाद ही छोड़ा
जानकारी के मुताबिक बाबा के पास से मिला गांजा
कैफ़े में अपना बर्थ डे मना रहे थे बाबा #iitbaba pic.twitter.com/uCajg6JweY

— Hemant Kumar (@hemantkumarnews) March 3, 2025

IIT Baba’s Defense

Following his release, Singh addressed the media with a characteristic mix of defiance and humor. “Mostly every baba consumes weed as a prasad. Would they arrest all of them?” he questioned, defending his actions as part of his spiritual customs as an Aghori baba. He further added that it was his birthday and he simply wanted to celebrate in his own way, downplaying the seriousness of the situation.

Who is IIT Baba?

Abhay Singh, better known as IIT Baba, is an alumnus of IIT Bombay and a former aerospace engineer who left a promising career to pursue a life of spirituality. His transformation from academia to asceticism first garnered widespread attention during the Maha Kumbh Mela, when a viral interview showcased his unconventional lifestyle and personal journey. Singh has openly discussed how strained family ties and the dismissal of his passion for photography contributed to his spiritual quest, making him a polarizing yet intriguing figure in contemporary India.

Public Reaction and Legal Perspectives

The incident has ignited a debate on social media, with some netizens sympathizing with Singh’s cultural and spiritual practices, while others question the appropriateness of his actions under current drug laws. Legal experts note that although the NDPS Act is stringent, the small volume of ganja involved does not warrant a harsh legal response. The case serves as a reminder of the complexities at the intersection of traditional customs and modern legal frameworks in India.

Rajasthan Assembly Discusses ‘Dadi’ Controversy, Water Shortage, And Attendance Issues

February 28, 2025, 1:17 am

The discussion on the word ‘dadi’; that had led to a potential deadlock between the ruling party and the opposition, was discussed in Rajasthan assembly on Thursday. In presence of the opposition, during Zero Hour in the Rajasthan assembly, BJP MLA Arjun Lal raised a strong objection to Congress MLA Govind Singh Dotasra’s actions, accusing him of insulting the Chair. He emphasised that Dadi (grandmother) is a symbol of love, affection, culture, and experience, and questioned how anyone could consider it an insult.

He recited a poem stating that “Dadi is the foundation of overcoming challenges and the essence of a thriving family.”

Garg Denied Opportunity To Speak In Assembly

Dr Subhash Garg of the Rashtriya Lok Dal, who was present in the House, requested permission to speak on the matter but was denied by Chairman Sandeep Sharma. He argued that since MLA Shrichand Kriplani from the ruling party was allowed to speak after the minister’s reply, he should be given the same opportunity. However, the Chairman did not permit him to speak.

Shrichand Kriplani Joins Debate In Assembly, Criticises Congress’ Reaction

BJP MLA Shrichand Kriplani also joined the debate, suggesting that Minister Avinash Gehlot should have used the term “grandmother” instead of “Dadi.” He humorously remarked that if “grandmother” had been used, Congress wouldn’t have seen it as an insult, referring to the party’s Italian connection.

Kriplani also accused Dotasra of saying outside the House, “Not me, my shoe will apologise.”

He called for strict rules to prevent such language in the assembly, stressing the need for decorum and respect.

Dotasra should apologise: Bedam

Minister of State for Home Jawahar Singh Bedam also reacted strongly to Dotasra’s behaviour. He said that Dotasra has misbehaved with the Speaker in the House, he should have apologised. He was given a full opportunity, but he did not apologise. On the contrary, he used low-level words. Therefore, strict action should be taken against him. The ruling party is trying to end the deadlock, but the opposition is not ready to come to the House.

Food Supply Minister Sumit Godara praised Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani for always taking care of everyone in the House. Godara highlighted that even expelled Congress member Govind Singh Dotasra was given an opportunity to speak in the House, but he failed to apologise. Instead, Dotasra led the Congress MLAs to walk out in his own manner. Godara criticized Dotaara’s attitude and called for action to be taken against him, asserting that his behaviour was inappropriate and disrespectful towards the House and its proceedings.

Nagaur is not getting water: Yunus Khan

Meanwhile, Deedwana MLA Yunus Khan raised the issue of shortage of water from Indira Gandhi Canal in Nagaur district during Zero Hour.

He said, “I thank the head of the previous government, Vasundhara Raje, who brought Indira Gandhi Canal water to Nagaur with four thousand crores, but later this project was stopped in the middle. We were discriminated against. Today, Deedwana and the rest of the district are unable to get drinking water. We were supposed to receive a total of 300 MLD of water, but when Nagaur was an undivided district, we are getting 125 MLD less water than that. The government should pay attention to this. Instead of 40 MLD, Deedwana is getting only 27 MLD. Due to this, water is being received at an interval of 100 hours. The tender for JJM is not being completed in Deedwana Molasar area. As a result, 240 dhanias and 34 villages could get water.”

Gurveer Singh calls for software to track attendance

Sadulashahar MLA Gurveer Singh raised the issue of the frequent absence of officers and employees in government offices. He emphasised that the Rajasthan government should develop a software system to track when officers and employees leave their headquarters. According to Singh, whenever he contacts officials, the common excuse is that they are attending a video conference (VC). This leads to frustration among poor farmers and common citizens who continue to run after them for the completion of their work, with no accountability or resolution. He urged the government to address this issue promptly.

This ‘Paise Waali Car’ Is Pure Gold!: Man Covers Vehicle In Rs 1 Coins | WATCH

February 13, 2025, 11:30 am

A uniquely decorated car has taken social media by storm, drawing widespread attention for its extraordinary exterior completely covered in Rs 1 coins . The video of this “coin car” has gone viral, amassing over 1.25 lakh views and sparking countless reactions from netizens.

A Masterpiece of Coins

The video showcases a vehicle entirely adorned with coins, from the front bumper to the rear, including its windows and mirrors. The meticulous placement of each Rs 1 coins reflects the sheer dedication and artistic effort behind this unique transformation. Passersby couldn’t help but stop and marvel at the unusual sight, making the car a head-turner wherever it went.

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Rajasthan Connection and Social Media Buzz

As per the vehicle’s number plate, it appears to be registered in Rajasthan. The video has triggered a wave of reactions online, with many users joking that if Rs 1 coins ever go out of circulation, this car owner has found the perfect way to use them! Others applauded the creativity, calling it a remarkable display of artistry and patience.

With its viral fame, the “coin car” has become an unexpected internet sensation, proving once again that creativity knows no bounds.

Phone Tapping Controversy Escalates As Opposition Targets BJP In Rajasthan

February 11, 2025, 11:17 pm

Political tensions in Rajasthan have escalated over allegations of phone tapping involving Cabinet Minister Kirodi Lal Meena, as the opposition intensifies its attacks on the state government. Leader of Opposition, Tikaram Juli, has raised concerns about the Chief Minister’s silence on the matter, while the ruling BJP is dealing with internal controversy surrounding Meena’s allegations. The controversy intensified after Meena’s phone tapping allegations became a point of contention in the Rajasthan assembly.

The political situation in Rajasthan remains tense, with both the opposition and BJP dealing with the consequences of Meena’s claims.

Meena’s Allegations Of Phone Tapping

The controversy first erupted on February 6 when Kirodi Lal Meena, a senior BJP leader, made the serious allegation during a public meeting that his phone was being tapped by the government. In the viral video, Meena expressed his frustration with the current administration, claiming that despite his efforts to expose corruption, no action was being taken against the wrongdoers. Meena also criticised the government’s inaction on cases involving police officers arrested in fake cases and its failure to address fraudulent exam cancellations.

BJP Faces Internal Controversy Over Meena’s Claims

BJP state president Madan Rathore responded to the internal party controversy surrounding Meena’s allegations. Rathore emphasised that issuing a notice to Meena was an internal matter within the party. He asserted that if the party felt the need for any inquiry or explanation from a member, it would handle it internally, describing the situation as a “family matter.” Rathore urged Meena’s supporters not to resort to violence and reassured them that the party would handle the matter calmly.

Rathore said, “If any inquiry has to be done from any member of the family, questions have to be asked, then the party does it. It is a family matter; we will solve it within the family.”

Meanwhile, Rathore also commented on Meena’s response to the notice, where Meena had described himself as a disciplined party soldier. Rathore welcomed this statement, saying that all party members should strive to work as disciplined soldiers.

Opposition Demands Clarity From Chief Minister

Meanwhile, Juli, taking to the social media platform criticised the lack of a firm response from the government. He pointed out that Rathore had issued a notice to Meena, requesting a reply within three days regarding his claims. The notice came after a viral video in which Meena accused the government of wiretapping his phone and alleged that authorities were monitoring his every move through the CID.

Juli questioned why the Chief Minister had not addressed the issue in the Legislative Assembly on February 7, especially after State Home Minister Jawahar Singh publicly declared Meena’s allegations false. Juli suggested that the Chief Minister’s silence raised suspicions, indicating that something was amiss. He also emphasised that the opposition would not allow the assembly to run until the Chief Minister provided a clear statement in the House.

Congress Criticises Government, BJP Intervenes

The Congress party strongly criticised the government, prompting the BJP high command to intervene. BJP National President J.P. Nadda reportedly discussed the matter with Rathore, which led to the issuance of the show-cause notice to Meena. The notice stated that Meena’s public allegations of phone tapping were false and detrimental to the BJP-led government’s reputation, seeking an explanation from him within three days.

Joraram Kumawat Highlights Government Initiatives For Temples

February 11, 2025, 11:02 pm

Devasthan, Dairy, and Gopalan Minister Joraram Kumawat responded to former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s tweet regarding Galta Peeth. He stated that approval for Rs 48 lakh has been granted for necessary work at Galta Ji and its subordinate temples, as well as for service worship at the temples.

Regular Arrangements For Service Worship At Temples

Kumawat added that, following the government’s order, regular arrangements for bhog samagri and garlands are being made at the temples, with priests performing service worship and offering Hanuman Ji’s Mukharvind. He dismissed Gehlot’s statement as untrue.

Festivals And Events At Galtaji

Kumawat further emphasised that the government has organised grand celebrations for festivals like Tulsi Jayanti, Janmashtami, Navratri Utsav, Kanya Pujan, Deepotsav during Diwali, Chhath Utsav, and Dev Deepawali at Galtaji. Payments for priests, security personnel, gausevaks, and sanitation workers at Galtaji and its subordinate temples for December and January have also been made.

Increased Bhog Raag And Priest Honorarium

The Minister also announced that the Bhog Raag amount will be increased. In a recent cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma at Rajasthan Mandapam in Prayagraj, it was decided to double the Bhog Raag to Rs 3,000 per temple for arrangements of service, worship, bhog, prasad, festivals, dress, water, lighting, etc. Additionally, the honorarium for part-time priests working in these temples has been raised from Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,500 per month.

Rs 101 Crore Budget For Temple Renovations

A Rs 101 crore budget has also been allocated for the renovation, repair, and development of temples under the Devasthan Department, and Rs 25 crore has been approved for the renovation of temples outside the state.

Development Of Temples And Faith Centres

Regarding the tweet from Gehlot, Kumawat said that they follow Sanatan and believe in the philosophy of “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah.” He criticised the previous government for focusing on facilities in madrasas to gain Muslim votes, spending crores of rupees on them. Kumawat added that the Bhajan Lal government has announced Rs 300 crores for the development of 20 temples and faith centres and Rs 100 crores for the construction of the Khatu Shyamji temple corridor in the 2024-25 state budget. With the aim of promoting religious tourism in the state, 12 temples will be renovated, and other development projects will be carried out.

Funding For Decorations And Aartis At 593 Temples

Additionally, Rs 13 crores has been allocated for special decorations and aartis during major festivals like Holi, Diwali, and Ram Navami at 593 temples across the state. The government has issued strict instructions for the maintenance and smooth operation of temples, with regular reviews.

BJP Concern Grows Over State Presidents’ Election and Tussles in Rajasthan

January 21, 2025, 9:43 pm

BJP has instructed all its ruled states, including Rajasthan, to complete the state president elections by the end of this month or the first week of February. If Madan Rathore remains the state president in Rajasthan, he will also need to undergo the election process. The BJP is concerned about internal disputes that have surfaced during the organization elections, even though it is likely the party will retain Madan Rathore as Rajasthan’s state president. The elections for state presidents are set to take place in several key states, including Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Bihar, in particular, is under scrutiny due to ongoing internal conflicts within the party. Dilip Jaiswal, who became the state president in Bihar last July, is facing uncertainty as the state heads towards assembly elections in six months. After Delhi, the party’s primary focus will be on Bihar. In contrast, Chhattisgarh has completed its state president election process, with Kiran Singh Dev being re-elected. The situation in Chhattisgarh is stable, but other states, especially Bihar, require careful attention as the BJP plans its strategy for upcoming elections.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has not yet made a decision about replacing the state president, Vishnudutt Sharma. The elections for district and division posts are still pending. The party plans to replace Sharma with a Brahmin leader, and several Brahmin candidates are now in the running. However, the process is complicated due to the influence of prominent leaders in the state. Both former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia are focused on maintaining their control in Madhya Pradesh, and there are other powerful leaders in the state who are also weighing in on the decision.

In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP will soon elect a new state president to replace Bhupendra Singh. The biggest challenge for the party in Uttar Pradesh is maintaining its hold, particularly in the wake of the recent by-elections. The fight in Milkipur has garnered attention, and with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s active efforts, the BJP is expected to win this seat. A victory in Milkipur would be a significant blow to the Samajwadi Party and affect the All India Alliance. Ahead of the 2027 elections, this win would boost the BJP’s confidence. However, the party faces a dilemma in choosing a new president for Uttar Pradesh, as it must select someone from the western part of the state, since CM Yogi Adityanath is from the east. There is speculation that the BJP might opt for a Dalit or OBC leader to represent the party in the region, given the opposition’s focus on backward politics.

In Uttarakhand, Ajay Bhatt is expected to be replaced as state president, but the election has been delayed due to local body elections. Similarly, the process in other states like Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Haryana, Delhi,

Rajasthan Town Sees Surge in Couples Seeking Police Protection, Here’s Why

January 21, 2025, 1:55 pm

While cities like Paris and Agra are being flocked to for their romantic appeal as the ‘City of Love’, a small town in Rajasthan, Churu, is fast becoming famous for a different reason: the increasing number of couples applying for police protection because of love marriages.

In Churu, love has been able to cut across the societal barriers of caste, religion, and economic status, and even though the town is more traditional, it has become a focus for couples defying societal norms. According to local reports, many couples visit the district’s Superintendent of Police (SP) office daily to seek assistance.

Interestingly, love flourishes in Churu but marriages are made elsewhere, be it Arya Samaj temples in Ghaziabad or courts in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner. All these couples often face pressure in the name of caste, religion, wealth, or age differences forcing them to get married outside home. Even after marriage, the challenges do not end. Couples return to their families, which is followed by resistance sometimes through threats of violence or honor-based harm.

Many couples run to the Churu SP office seeking police protection. In that sense, Churu has become the city of love challenging ages-old values, thus becoming known as Rajasthan’s ‘City of Love’.

Rajasthan: Girl’s Family Chops Off Groom’s Brother’s Moustache After Engagement Call-Off | WATCH

January 20, 2025, 10:47 am

In a bizarre and viral turn of events, a broken engagement in Karauli district, Rajasthan, escalated into a public spectacle where a groom‘s brother had his moustache shaved off. The shocking incident has garnered significant attention, with the video circulating widely on social media.

The Breaking Point of a Broken Engagement

The incident unfolded when the groom’s family decided to call off the engagement, citing issues raised by the groom’s sister regarding the bride-to-be. As tensions rose, the bride’s family reacted in anger, allegedly holding the groom’s brother in public and forcibly cutting off his moustache. Onlookers gathered around as the event unfolded, with some recording the incident and later sharing the video online.

The Groom’s Family Responds

In an emotional video response, the groom explained his family’s side of the story, stating that the engagement was called off after his family discovered a discrepancy. According to him, the woman shown to his family in the engagement photograph was different from the one he was expected to marry. His family, he said, needed more time to confirm the engagement, and he claims they faced unwarranted pressure and humiliation after the bride’s family retaliated.

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करौली में लड़की के परिजनों ने दूल्हे के बाल और मूंछ काट दिए,क्योंकि लड़के ने शादी से इनकार कर दिया था. #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/KHKR1DH9uV

— Gaurav Dwivedi (@gauravkrdwivedi) January 19, 2025

Seeking Protection and a Resolution

The groom, who remains unidentified, has sought protection from the police and revealed that there is pressure being exerted on him to accept financial compensation as a settlement. He stated that he feels wronged and disrespected, urging authorities to intervene in the ongoing dispute.

Police Investigation Underway

Nadauti police station in-charge Mahendra Kumar stated that no formal complaints have been filed by either party at this stage. The police are keeping a close eye on the situation to ensure the conflict does not escalate further.

This bizarre sequence of events has stirred debate about the consequences of broken engagements, with many expressing concern over the extreme measures taken by the bride’s family. The incident has once again brought attention to the sensitive nature of marital disputes in rural areas of India.

India’s Only ‘4,000 Lives, 1 Living Fort’: A Rent-Free Home | WATCH

January 10, 2025, 9:54 am

In this land of rich history by the kings and maharajas, the country hosts various forts today standing as heritage structures. Still, one particular fort in Jaisalmer is vibrant as a community rather than merely an ancient historical structure. This golden fort has the name “Golden Fort,“ for it’s housing around 4,000 citizens of Sonar Fort without paying even a single rupee as a rental charge to be alive with extraordinary culture that would capture the tourists across the globe.

A Living Heritage

Built in 1156 by King Rawal Jaisal, Sonar Fort is a stunning example of sandstone architecture that has earned Jaisalmer its title as the “Golden City.” Unlike other forts that have become museums or historical ruins, this fort remains a bustling residential area, blending ancient charm with modern-day life.

Painting Wedding Invitations on Walls

The most astounding tradition of this fort‘s dweller is about painting the invitations of weddings inside their house‘s walls. Mainly, all these hand-written invitation cards carry the figure of Lord Ganesh, signifying prosperity, besides carrying all information about the occasion, including calling out everyone reading it to partake in celebrations. This makes it stand at one end, giving a peculiar flavour by distributing the otherwise traditional invitation card.

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Viral on Social Media

The vibrant culture and traditions of Sonar Fort caught the attention of Instagram user Shivangi Khanna recently. She has posted a video, whichhas gone viral with almost 600,000 views. Many users commented on their fascination with the fort‘s traditions and compared it to other forts, such as Chittorgarh.

A Beloved Destination

Today, Jaisalmer is also becoming a center for tourists seeking panoramic visions of architectural delight, the glory of desert beauty, and culture. This beautiful old city’s highlight is definitely Golden Fort-a wonder that reflects something of this long-lost prosperity and community way of life which is only lived by so many people these days.

Sonar Fort represents more than something from history-books; it remains a dynamic Indian cultural tapestry-a place where a thousand-year culture meets today in an extra-special way.

Haryana and Rajasthan Yamuna Water Agreement: The Chief Ministers of Haryana and Rajasthan have agreed to share extra water

January 9, 2025, 10:55 pm

Haryana’s Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Rajasthan’s Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma have agreed on the Yamuna water agreement. This means Rajasthan will get extra water from the Yamuna River for the Shekhawati region in the desert state. This decision was made in a high-level meeting in New Delhi, led by Union Water Power Minister CR Patil. The aim is to use the extra water from the Yamuna River during the monsoon to meet the drinking water needs in the districts of Churu, Sikar, and Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan.

This extra water, estimated at 577 million cubic meters, will be a big help for the dry Shekhawati region, which has faced water shortages for decades. After the meeting, CM Nayab Saini stressed on cooperative efforts between the two states. He said, “A joint team of officials from both states will soon be formed to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for this initiative. The Upper Yamuna River Board will provide technical support for the smooth implementation of the plan.”

The Yamuna water agreement is based on an MoU signed on February 17, 2024, between then Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar and Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma, in the presence of then Union Water Power Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. Meanwhile, Rajasthan’s CM expressed hope for this initiative. He said, “This agreement will change the Shekhawati region, which has been waiting for Yamuna water for decades. With the formation of the joint team, the wait is over, and work on the DPR will start soon.”

The meeting also discussed issues affecting Haryana. CM Nayab Saini asked for technical help from the Union Water Power Ministry to deal with the ‘sem’ (waterlogging) problem, where groundwater comes to the surface, making farm land swampy and unusable. Union Minister CR Patil assured that a technical team would be sent to Haryana to effectively solve this problem.
The role of the Union Water Power Ministry has been crucial in this agreement between the two states, indicating a cooperative approach to water management in the region. As the joint team begins drafting the DPR, the successful implementation of the Yamuna water agreement could serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges.

Rajasthan Mandates Biometric Authentication For GST Registration

January 9, 2025, 1:46 am

To combat tax evasion and fraudulent firms, the Rajasthan Commercial Tax Department has made biometric authentication mandatory for GST registration. This new system, which involves fingerprint and iris scans similar to Aadhaar, aims to ensure authenticity and prevent bogus registrations.

A total of 73 centres have been set up statewide to facilitate the biometric process. The new system will come into effect from January 10, 2025, as per a notification issued on the GST portal.

Process Of Biometric Verification

Under this system, applicants will undergo biometric verification at designated centres, where their iris scans and fingerprints will be matched, followed by physical verification of their address and documents by officials. Only after thorough scrutiny will GST registration be granted.

This initiative mirrors a similar implementation in states like Gujarat, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, where biometric authentication has already shown success in controlling tax fraud.

Addressing Issues Of Fraudulent Registrations

Previously, GST registration relied solely on document-based online verification, which left room for misuse, such as obtaining registrations under fake names or unrelated individuals like vendors or rickshaw drivers. The absence of physical verification often resulted in bogus firms evading detection.

Gajendra Singh Khinvsar Unveils Florence Nightingale’s Statue

January 7, 2025, 1:05 am

Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khinvsar on Monday unveiled a statue of Florence Nightingale, the mother of modern nursing, at the Rajasthan Nursing Council premises. Along with the statue, Khinvsar also planted a sapling in honour of Nightingale’s legacy. During the event, the Minister highlighted the state government’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services by addressing the shortage of nursing and paramedical staff in Rajasthan.

Khinvsar Talks About Efforts To Address Nursing And Paramedical Staff Shortages

Khinvsar stated that the state government is prioritising the recruitment of vacant nursing and paramedical positions to improve healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas. He revealed that over 20,000 vacancies in the Medical and Health Department have already been filled in a short span, aiming to strengthen healthcare services across the state.

Celebrating Florence Nightingale’s Legacy

Speaking about Florence Nightingale’s legacy, Khinvsar emphasised her pioneering work during the Crimean War, where she improved hygiene standards and cared for wounded soldiers. Her dedication to nursing has made her a symbol of service and compassion, inspiring healthcare professionals worldwide.

Khinvsar’s Commitment To Filling Vacant Nursing Posts

Khinvsar also reassured the public that the state government is committed to filling the remaining vacant posts in the nursing sector. He acknowledged the past recruitment delays but assured that current efforts are focused on fulfilling all vacancies as quickly as possible. Transparency in the recruitment and posting process has been prioritised, with new appointments being made through an online portal based on staff preferences.

Transfer Policy And New Initiatives For Healthcare Staff

Additionally, Khinvsar announced that the state government has lifted the ban on transfers within the Medical and Health Department. The transfer process will be transparent, with priority given to women, differently abled personnel, and those with serious health conditions. A new transfer policy is being formulated to ensure equitable distribution of medical staff across the state.

The Minister also shared plans to introduce a portability feature for the Chief Minister Ayushman Yojana, allowing citizens from other states to access healthcare in Rajasthan, expanding the scheme’s reach.

Rajasthan: Deputy CM Diya Kumari Commemorates Guru Gobind Singh’s Jayanti With Floral Offerings

January 6, 2025, 2:45 pm

Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari paid floral tributes to Guru Gobind Singh at Sarvtobhadra Chowk in the City Palace. She remarked that Guru Gobind Singh’s legacy of sacrifice, martyrdom, and bravery would forever inspire generations.

During the event, the Deputy Chief Minister also performed a ceremonial worship of Guru Gobind Singh’s historic sword, which is preserved at the City Palace in Jaipur.

As part of the Prakash Parv celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh, his personal sword has been displayed at Sarvtobhadra Chowk for visitors, tourists, and the public to admire. Guru Gobind Singh, who once stayed in Nahan in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmour district, had gifted his sword to the then ruler as a token of remembrance. Rajmata Padmini Devi, originally from Nahan, brought the sword to Jaipur a few years ago.

Taking to social media platform X, Diya Kumari wrote, “Today, on the 358th Prakash Parv of Shri Guru Gobind Singh, I paid my obeisance to Guru by offering floral tribute to his picture at Sarvatobhadra Chowk in the City Palace and had the privilege of worshipping Guru Ji’s historic sword (Shri Saheb) situated in the City Palace.”

आज श्री गुरु गोबिंद सिंह जी के 358वें प्रकाश पर्व पर सिटी पैलेस स्थित सर्वतोभद्र चौक में गुरु जी की तस्वीर पर पुष्पांजलि अर्पित कर उन्हें नमन किया और सिटी पैलेस में विराजमान गुरु जी की ऐतिहासिक तलवार (श्री साहेब) की पूजा-अर्चना करने का सौभाग्य प्राप्त हुआ।

श्री गुरु गोबिंद सिंह… pic.twitter.com/E3NPMp1V0w

— Diya Kumari (@KumariDiya) January 6, 2025

She further added, “The saga of sacrifice, martyrdom and valour of Shri Guru Gobind Singh will always inspire us. The saga of sacrifice, martyrdom and valour of Shri Guru Gobind Singh is one of the inspirational chapters of Indian history. Guru Sahib not only served religion, justice and humanity in his life, but he also fought for the rights of the oppressed in the society.”

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also joined the celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti. On social media platform X, he wrote, “I bow to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on his birth anniversary. His thoughts inspire us to create a progressive, prosperous and compassionate society.”

Temples Send Essential Food Supplies For Mahakumbh Devotees

January 6, 2025, 2:39 am

As the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, draws near, three major temples from Jaipur—Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, Salasar Balaji Temple, and Khatu Shyam Ji Temple—are contributing to the spiritual event by sending food supplies for the devotees. Starting from January 13, the Mahakumbh will draw millions of devotees, including a large number from Jaipur, who will take a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam.

Food Centres To Be Set Up For Devotees At Mahakumbh

To support the influx of pilgrims, several Anna Kshetras or food centres will be set up by temples and monasteries across Jaipur, providing food, tea, and breakfast to the devotees. The three temples mentioned are sending three trucks loaded with food supplies to assist in the arrangements for the Mahakumbh.

The food items being dispatched from Jaipur include 200 barrels of oil, 50 barrels of desi ghee, 10 tonnes of flour, and 5 tonnes of pulses. The mission is coordinated by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad under the guidance of Devasthan Minister Joraram Kumawat. On Monday, Kumawat will oversee the departure of the three trucks from Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple at 11 am.

Key Sacred Bathing Days During Mahakumbh

The Mahakumbh, a significant religious event in Sanatan Dharma, is believed to purify the souls of those who take a dip in the holy waters, which are considered to transform into nectar during the festival. This year holds extra significance as it marks the return of the full Mahakumbh after 144 years. The sacred bathing days include Paush Purnima on January 13, Makar Sankranti on January 14, Mauni Amavasya on January 29, Basant Panchami on February 3, Magh Purnima on February 12, and Mahashivratri on February 26.

During these days, lakhs of devotees, including ascetics, sadhus, saints, and pilgrims, will participate in the spiritual rituals. The food supplies from Jaipur’s temples will help sustain the large number of participants in this grand religious gathering, reflecting the community’s dedication to supporting the event and its devotees.

Rajasthan Soldier Martyred In Kashmir, Village Mourns Loss

January 6, 2025, 1:23 am

A soldier from Riwali village in Behror, Rajasthan, was martyred in Kashmir on Saturday. Nitesh Yadav, serving in the Indian Army, tragically lost his life when an army vehicle fell into a ditch in Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir. The accident claimed the lives of four soldiers, while two others were injured. Nitesh Yadav, a resident of Riwali village, was among those martyred, leaving the entire village in deep mourning.

Former Sarpanch Confirms Soldier’s Death

Naresh Yadav, the former Sarpanch of Riwali village and uncle of the martyr, confirmed the heartbreaking news. He shared that Nitesh had joined the army in 2017 and was married to Anshu Yadav in 2021. Anshu is currently pursuing coaching for a medical compounder in Jaipur. The couple has a two-year-old son. Nitesh’s father is a farmer, and his mother is a housewife.

Upon hearing the news of Nitesh Yadav’s martyrdom, villagers gathered to mourn the loss of their brave son. His body was brought back to Riwali on Sunday, where he was given a final farewell with full military honours.

The martyrdom of Nitesh Yadav has deeply saddened the community, with people from all walks of life expressing their condolences and paying tribute to his sacrifice for the nation.

Bullocks Rescue Rajasthan Leader After Electric Car Breaks Down | Watch!

December 31, 2024, 4:52 pm

In a bizarre incident, an electric car of Rajasthan municipal opposition leader broke down mid-journey and got towed by bullocks. The video of this unusual scene went viral in minutes and created a lot of debate about the reliability of electric vehicles.

The opposition leader of Kuchaman Nagar Parishad in Deedwana district, Anil Singh Medtia, was driving his electric car when it suddenly malfunctioned, leaving him stranded on the road. No professional towing services were available in the area; however, some local farmers offered their bullocks to tow the vehicle. This spectacle of a modern electric car being hauled by traditional bullocks caught the attention of many passers-by, who photographed the moment with their phones.

Medtia vents frustration over car that often breakdowns. “The vehicle was always giving problem,” he rued, referring to the fact that Medtia made 16 round trips to a service center throughout last year when his car could not start-up, despite his best efforts by keeping the motor completely charged. He added, “The company has not provided any proper response,” further expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of resolution from the manufacturer. He also noted that the car failed to meet its promised mileage.

Watch the viral video:

आज डीडवाना में कुचामन नगर परिषद के प्रतिपक्ष नेताजी की इलेक्ट्रिक कार ? ने जब रास्ते में धोखा दिया, तब बैलों ने जिम्मेदारी संभाली..!!

टेक्नोलॉजी और नागौरी बैलों का ऐसा अनोखा जुगाड़ सिर्फ राजस्थान में ?+? = ? @8PMnoCM #Rajasthan #Didwana #Kuchaman #Nagaur @arvindchotia pic.twitter.com/jJ0F6oiF4A

— Vinod Bhojak (@VinoBhojak) December 28, 2024

Social Media Buzz

The viral video of bullocks towing an electric car drew varied comments on social media. Some people praised the ingenuity in using traditional methods, while others questioned whether electric cars were really practical for use in rural areas where support infrastructure could be inadequate.