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Pakistani Roommates Deny Indian Man Water in Dubai, Citing Indus Row

May 18, 2025, 12:00 pm

A young man from Uttarakhand, who was supposedly enticed to Dubai with a job opportunity, has been rescued at last and returned to his family. On returning home, he revealed that he had constantly been harassed by his Pakistani roommates, who even refused to give him drinking water.

The incident was brought into the limelight after the Udham Singh Nagar Police posted a picture on X (formerly Twitter), featuring the man at home with a relative. The victim, police officials said, had been desperately asking to return to India as he claimed he was repeatedly harassed by his roommates.

“Thanks to SSP Manikant Mishra’s timely intervention, the youth stuck in Dubai returned, and the family thanked the SSP. He had gone to Dubai after being cheated by the agent. He was continuously requesting to return. The man was continuously being teased by Pakistani youths for not having given him water,” a translated post from Uttarakhand Police on X read.

SSP मणिकांत मिश्रा की त्वरित कार्यवाही से दुबई में फंसा युवक आया वापस,परिजनों ने SSP का जताया आभार। एजेंट की बातों में फंसकर दुबई चला गया था। लगातार वापस आने को लगा रहा था गुहार।
दुबई में युवक के साथ रह रहे पाकिस्तानी युवकों द्वारा पानी न देने को लेकर लगातार किया जा रहा था परेशान pic.twitter.com/34m5ykQN5L

— Udham Singh Nagar Police Uttarakhand (@UdhamSNagarPol) May 15, 2025

Revealed as Vishal, the individual was allegedly dispatched to Dubai by agent Sameer, according to a report conducted by News9. However, upon arrival in Dubai, his conditions in life took a turn for the worse. Pakistani housemates started taunting him and making jokes about the tense India-Pakistan relations, specifically invoking the Indus Waters Treaty.

As per the report, the roommates had apparently informed him, “If India has blocked water from coming into Pakistan, we will not allow you to have water either.” Such prolonged ill-treatment had an adverse effect on Vishal’s health and caused dehydration along with an urgent craving to go back home.

Following news of his plight, Vishal’s family approached local authorities for assistance. SSP Manikant Mishra quickly took action, applying the details Vishal had provided to trace the employment agency behind the scam. Officials traced Vishal in Dubai and arranged for him to return.

On 15th May, once safely back, Vishal and family visited SSP Mishra at the Rudrapur Police Office to thank him personally for the quick response. Vishal explained how his own physical well-being had been affected by the abuse he suffered, particularly being withheld water by his Pakistani roommates—a deed they rationalized by referencing India’s water policy against Pakistan.

Grateful for the support, Vishal’s family expressed relief over his return and acknowledged the timely efforts of SSP Mishra and the Uttarakhand Police in ensuring his safety.

PM Modi to Inaugurate 38th National Games in Uttarakhand on January 28

January 8, 2025, 2:48 pm

Uttarakhand is set to host the 38th edition of the National Games, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to inaugurate the event on January 28. This marks a significant moment in India’s sports calendar as the state prepares to welcome over 10,000 athletes, coaches, and officials across 38 sports disciplines.

Uttarakhand’s First National Games Hosting

Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, confirmed the announcement and expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Modi for agreeing to inaugurate the prestigious event. “I would like to thank PM Modi. We had urged him to inaugurate the National Games. PM has agreed to inaugurate the Games. We also informed him about the winter yatra and urged him to stay here for a day during this yatra,” Dhami stated.

देवभूमि उत्तराखण्ड में हो रहे 38वें राष्ट्रीय खेलों का आयोजन हम सभी के लिए एक गौरव का क्षण है। राष्ट्रीय खेलों के सफल आयोजन हेतु हमारे समर्पित वॉलंटियर्स अपनी श्रमदान की आहुति देकर इस महायज्ञ का हिस्सा बन रहे हैं। राष्ट्रीय खेलों के सभी वॉलंटियर्स को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं!… pic.twitter.com/og2tN4HfN0

— Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) January 8, 2025

This event, which will run from January 28 to February 14, will feature 32 sporting disciplines and 4 demonstration events. It will include the introduction of traditional sports such as kalarippayattu, yogasana, mallakhamb, and rafting, alongside Olympic-style competitions. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha emphasized the importance of this event in promoting both traditional and modern sports in the country.

A Landmark Event for Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand’s role as the host for the 38th National Games will enhance the state’s image as a sporting hub. As the event will span several cities, it is expected to draw attention to Uttarakhand’s infrastructure and tourism potential, boosting the local economy.

The National Games have been a staple in the Indian sporting calendar, bringing together athletes from across the country to compete in a variety of sports. The inclusion of demonstration sports also reflects India’s commitment to showcasing its cultural heritage.

The 2025 edition promises to be a landmark event, further strengthening the nation’s commitment to promoting a well-rounded sports culture. As PT Usha noted, “The inclusion of traditional sports reflects our commitment to honouring India’s rich heritage while encouraging new opportunities for athletes.”

Historical Context of the National Games

The last National Games took place in Goa in 2023, where Maharashtra emerged as the top performer with 228 medals, including 80 golds. The previous edition, hosted by Gujarat in 2022, marked the revival of the National Games after a seven-year hiatus, with Services dominating the medal tally.

Viral Video: Gujaratis Play Garba On Uttarakhand Road While Stuck During Landslide

September 17, 2024, 11:43 am

A group of Gujaratis, stranded in Uttarakhand due to a landslide, turned their misfortune into a moment of joy by dancing garba on a scenic road. The lively performance, captured on video, has since gone viral across social media platforms, garnering thousands of views and heartwarming reactions.

Stuck Due to Landslide

On September 14, heavy rainfall triggered a landslide in Uttarakhand, leading to a massive 8-10 km traffic jam on the route to Gangotri. Among those affected was Viraj, who shared his experience with HT.com. “It had been raining for three days straight, and landslides were predicted. As I was heading toward Gangotri, we encountered the jam caused by the landslide,” he said.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Currently stuck somewhere in Uttarakhand due to some landslide & a random group of Gujjus thought playing Garba is the best that they can do

??? pic.twitter.com/psvbj1bWOn

— Viraj Gorasia (@virajux) September 14, 2024

Making the Most of Their Time

Faced with the possibility of a six-to-ten-hour wait for the roads to clear, the group of Gujaratis decided to make the most of the situation. “A group of Gujaratis thought that playing garba was the best way to pass the time,” Viraj explained. Soon, others, including Viraj’s parents, joined in, creating an impromptu dance party on the road.

A Celebration of Culture

For about an hour, the stranded group danced to traditional garba tunes, bringing a slice of Gujarati culture to the mountains of Uttarakhand. Afterward, the group shared snacks, including theplas and khakhras, making the wait more bearable. Viraj described the experience as “funny and beautiful,” adding, “Random Gujaratis in a remote village united to make the best of their time.”

Viral Moment on Social Media

Viraj shared a video of the spontaneous garba performance on X (formerly Twitter), where it quickly went viral. The video has been met with amused comments, with one user calling it “Navratri ki taiyari (Navratri prep),” while others lauded the upbeat spirit of Gujaratis, saying, “Gujjus are the best people I have known.”

Despite the challenges posed by the landslide, the group found a way to lift their spirits, demonstrating resilience and a joyful celebration of their culture.

Uttrakhand CM Dhami faces heat as rift in BJP deepens

July 18, 2024, 11:06 pm

The road ahead for BJP is full of challenges after the defeat in the by-elections. After the dissent in the Uttar Pradesh BJP, resentment within the party in the neighbouring Uttarakhand, which had previously been kept under control, is now surfacing. This shift was initiated by former MP and former Chief Minister Tirath Singh Rawat.

The situation in Uttarakhand is starting to resemble the unrest seen in Uttar Pradesh. The internal conflicts within the Uttarakhand BJP regarding Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami have intensified. Dhami, who was appointed by former Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshyari, is now facing growing controversy and criticism.

BJP may have won all five seats in the Lok Sabha elections, but the margin of victory decreased significantly. The party lost the by-elections of Manglaur and Badrinath. The lack of coordination and tussle between Chief Minister Dhami and State President Mahendra Bhatt is cited as the reason for the setback. Sources said the high command may soon summon the state leaders to Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi can also ask for a report.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has disappointed his own constituents with his recent statements and decisions. He has also been criticised for his handling of regional issues. The by-elections were Dhami’s first major test. The BJP lost the Manglaur seat, which has a significant Muslim population. The defeat in Badrinath sent a stronger message.
Dhami and Bhatt were confident of their success, but Congress dedicated significant resources to the Badrinath seat, resulting in a shocking defeat for BJP.

The people of Badrinath effectively challenged the political manoeuvring at play.
Uttarakhand has a history of political instability and party-switching, with many BJP ministers currently having origins in Congress. The state’s small size has historically fostered a political environment rife with corruption, with liquor and mining mafias influencing successive governments. The Ankita Bhandari murder case, which emerged under Dhami’s leadership, cast a shadow over the BJP government’s effectiveness. This case also became a major issue during the Lok Sabha elections. Despite these challenges, the party managed to secure Lok Sabha seats largely due to Prime Minister Modi’s strong personal image.

Dhami became the first Chief Minister of the state despite losing election from Khatima. But the high command, considering his clean image, made him the CM again and made him contest the by-election. In a way, Delhi gave the message that Dhami is the leader of the future. All the senior leaders were sidelined. In the Lok Sabha elections, former Chief Ministers Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank and Tirath Singh Rawat were denied tickets.
After Dhami became the Chief Minister, Garhwal was completely neglected. Dhami is from Kumaon and the central minister Ajay Tamta is also from Kumaon.

The Opposition alleges that there is discrimination in terms of development in Garhwal. Whereas in Uttarakhand, which has 70 assembly seats, 42 seats come from Garhwal. There are three Lok Sabha seats from Garhwal and two from Kumaon. Due to the fear of Delhi’s blessings on Dhami, no leader was ever able to speak openly. But after the results of the Lok Sabha elections and the defeat in the by-elections, the resentment of the leaders started coming out in the changed circumstances.

Former CM Tirath Singh Rawat in the BJP working committee meeting reprimanded the BJP leadership and Dhami in gestures. He gave a message in a way that imposing will not work and it is not known when the chair will be lost. The more questions Rawat raised, the more leaders clapped. Experts believe that the high command should intervene soon in the matter of Uttarakhand. CM Dhami has been surrounded by controversies since the foundation stone laying of Kedarnath temple in Delhi and the speeches given there.

Since the formation of Uttarakhand, Narayan Dutt Tiwari is the only Chief Minister who has completed a full five-year term. No other Chief Minister has managed to serve a full term. The BJP has always faced internal conflicts, and tensions between Kumaon and Garhwal regions have persisted. Dhami was appointed as Chief Minister in the final months leading up to the elections. Prior to Dhami, Trivendra Singh Rawat and Tirath Singh Rawat served as Chief Ministers. Although Dhami was in office during the 2022 assembly elections, he lost. While the BJP won two consecutive elections thanks to Prime Minister Modi’s popularity, the current situation has become increasingly concerning.

Seven Injured In Rudraprayag Accident Airlifted To AIIMS Rishikesh

June 15, 2024, 4:53 pm

On Saturday, seven individuals injured in the Rudraprayag tempo traveller accident were airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh following orders from Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. In a post on ‘X’, the Chief Minister stated, “The seriously injured passengers in the Rudraprayag road accident are being airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh. Instructions have been given to the concerned officials for better treatment of the injured. We are fully committed to providing all possible assistance to the injured.”

The tragic accident, which occurred on Badrinath Highway in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, resulted in ten fatalities and left 13 others injured when the tempo traveller they were in plunged into a deep gorge. The remaining injured individuals are receiving treatment at a hospital in Rudraprayag.

Garhwal IG KS Nagnyal informed ANI that local authorities, residents, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are actively involved in rescue and relief operations. “The tempo traveller was heading towards Rudraprayag from Noida when it fell into the 150-meter-deep ditch. The number of tourists travelling is not clear yet. We have recovered eight bodies and nine persons have been rushed to the hospital. The driver has also sustained severe injuries,” he reported. He also mentioned that a full account of the passengers would be available after the rescue operation is complete.

Chief Minister Dhami has directed the Rudraprayag District Magistrate to conduct an investigation into the incident. Earlier in the day, he expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased. “Very sad news was received about a tempo traveller accident in Rudraprayag district. The local administration and SDRF teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations. The injured have been sent to the nearest medical centre for treatment. The District Magistrate has been ordered to investigate the incident. I pray to God to grant the souls of the departed a place in His feet and provide strength to the bereaved family to bear this immense pain. I pray to Baba Kedar for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his sorrow over the accident in a post on ‘X’. “Received the sad news of the road accident in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. My condolences are with the families of those who lost their lives in this accident. The local administration and SDRF teams are engaged in relief and rescue work and all possible help is being provided to the injured. I pray to God for the speedy recovery of the injured,” Shah wrote.

“PM Modi Has Done So Much For Sikhism…”: Uttarakhand CM Dhami

May 26, 2024, 5:36 pm

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s contributions to Sikh heritage, including bringing holy copies of the Guru Granth Sahib from Afghanistan, constructing the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, celebrating Veer Bal Diwas, and promoting the history of Guru Govind Singh Ji’s Sahibzadas.

While addressing an election rally in Punjab’s Zirakpur in support of BJP candidate Preneet Kaur from Patiala, Dhami said, “The Prime Minister has also done many things for the preservation, protection and expansion of the heritage of Sikhism. Three holy copies of the holy Guru Granth Sahib of Sikhism were brought to India from Afghanistan with full respect. Kartarpur Sahib Corridor has been constructed. Veer Bal Diwas is being celebrated in the name of the four Sahibzadas of Guru Govind Singh Ji. Modi ji also did the work of bringing their history in front of India and the world. The sacrifice of Sikhism has not been told to the country and the world till date. The doors of Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand have opened. To make Hemkund Sahib Yatra easier, Prime Minister Modi has laid the foundation stone of the ropeway there”.

According to the Chief Minister, Punjabis want to see Prime Minister Modi serve a third term. He stated that the BJP candidate Mrs. Preneet Kaur ji must be elected with the most votes in order to advance the Patiala Lok Sabha.

“Every vote of the public to BJP will strengthen the country and fulfill the resolve of developed India. Prosperity is going to come with the vote of the people. The vote of the people will directly provide new strength to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji,” Dhami said.
Dhami highlighted India’s transformation into a manufacturing hub under Modi, attracting global companies and becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy.
He noted successful events like the G20 summit and various welfare schemes like Jan Dhan Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, and Ayushman Yojana, which have significantly impacted millions. He also cited the implementation of the CAA, the abrogation of Article 370, the ban on triple talaq, and the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya as key achievements.

Dhami criticized opposition’s appeasement tactics, accusing parties like AAP and Congress of relying on specific vote banks.

“AAP and Congress are continuously working in Delhi and other states to benefit their special vote bank. In Karnataka, Congress gave the reservation of other backward classes to a special class. These people work to change the Constitution. They make fun of people sitting on constitutional posts. BJP talks about Uniform Civil Code while Congress talks about implementing Muslim Personal Law. The opposition has neither any vision nor any ideology. These people only want to gain power,” Dhami said.
The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Modi ji, schemes worth more than Rs 2 lakh crore are underway for the development of Punjab. Which includes the gift of many green field highways, expressways, AIIMS.

He urged the people to cast their votes in support of Preneet Kaur, the BJP candidate from Patiala, in order to help her win and help Narendra Modi become prime minister for the third time.

The state of Punjab is engulfed in a four-corner conflict. The 13 seats in Punjab will be decided in a single round of voting. The constituencies of Gurudaspur, Amritsar, Khadoor Sahib, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Nandpur Sahib, Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib, Faridkot, Firozpur, Bathinda, Sangrur, and Patiala will vote in the seventh and final phase on June 1.

Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Fervour for defending their rights; a recently wed couple votes

April 19, 2024, 10:38 am

A newlywed couple, dressed in their wedding attire, posed outside a government school in Pauri Garhwal that had been converted into a polling place after they had exercised their right to vote. Everyone’s eagerness to take part in the electoral process for efficient governance demonstrates the country’s dedication to democracy.

#LokSabhaElections2024 | Uttarakhand: A newly-married couple voted for the general elections today, at a polling booth in Pauri Garhwal today. pic.twitter.com/orHQgAT06C

— ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024

Meanwhile in Uttarakhand, a remarkable coincidence occurred at a polling booth in Dehradun, where three generations cast their votes together. A grandmother, her daughter, and her two granddaughters ventured out for a family outing in Dehradun this morning, all intent on casting their votes in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, which commenced today across 102 constituencies spanning 21 states and union territories.

#LokSabhaElections2024 | Uttarakhand: Three generations – Prabha Sharma, her daughter Preeti Kaushik, and granddaughters Shamita Kaushik and Sakshi Kaushik – voted together at a polling booth in Dehradun today. pic.twitter.com/wttI9dKpxh

— ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024

A photo shared by the news agency ANI depicted Prabha Sharma, the grandmother, and her daughter, Preeti Kaushik, standing beside their granddaughters and daughters, Shamita and Sakshi Kaushik, all proudly displaying their inked fingers as proof of voting.

All five Lok Sabha seats in Uttarakhand are up for grabs today. In the 2019 election, the BJP swept all five seats and also secured victory in the Assembly election last year, decisively defeating the Congress. Although the saffron party clinched 47 of the 70 Assembly seats, a slightly reduced count compared to the previous election, it remained an impressive feat.

The Garhwal constituency has remained under BJP control since 2014, initially won by BC Khanduri and then by Tirath Singh Rawat in 2019. This time, Anil Baluni carries the BJP banner, competing against the Congress’ Ganesh Godiyal.

Char Dham Yatra Online Registration Opens

April 15, 2024, 3:09 pm

Online registration for the ‘Char Dham Yatra’ commenced on Monday via the tourism department’s portal, as stated by the Uttarakhand tourism department. Pilgrims are able to register on the official website starting April 15 to visit the sacred shrines.

The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand involves a pilgrimage to four sacred temples: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. This year, the Char Dham Yatra is set to commence on May 10, with the opening of Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath shrines. The Badrinath shrine will open its doors on May 12.

The Char Dham Yatra is deeply significant in Hinduism, typically taking place from April or May to October or November. Recently, Chamoli District Magistrate Himanshu Khurana inspected the preparations at Badrinath Dham for the upcoming Char Dham Yatra.

The District Magistrate directed the officials to ensure that sewer line repairs, enhancements of internal pathways, and provisions for water, electricity, street lighting, and vehicle parking are completed before the commencement of the Yatra. Additionally, appropriate signage should be installed to facilitate passenger convenience.

The high-altitude shrines are closed for about six months annually, opening in the summer months (April or May) and closing as winter approaches (October or November). It is a common belief that the Char Dham Yatra should be undertaken in a clockwise direction, starting at Yamunotri, then proceeding to Gangotri, followed by Kedarnath, and culminating at Badrinath.

The journey may be undertaken by road or air, with helicopter services available. Some pilgrims opt for the ‘Do Dham Yatra,’ a pilgrimage to the two sacred shrines of Kedarnath and Badrinath.

Congress targets PM Modi ahead of visit to Uttarakhand

April 2, 2024, 11:34 am

The Congress has targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his visit to Uttarakhand today, where he is scheduled to address a rally in Rudrapur as part of his Lok Sabha campaign.

The Congress General Secretary in Charge of Communications, Jairam Ramesh, alleged that the state has been plagued by “rampant” unemployment, and a “deteriorating” law and order situation in recent years.

In a long series of posts on his social media platform X, he said, “Today, PM Modi is visiting the city of Rudrapur in Uttarakhand, a state that has been plagued by rampant unemployment, unprecedented out-migration, crumbling infrastructure, and a deteriorating law and order situation in recent years.

Ramesh expressed hope that the PM will take this opportunity to address three key questions “about why his government has failed” to make any meaningful improvements in the state.

He claimed that the BJP government has been “disappointingly ineffective” in addressing Uttarakhand’s biggest challenges of unemployment and migration.

He asked,”The BJP government has been disappointingly ineffective in addressing Uttarakhand’s biggest challenges of unemployment and migration. In 2021, an RTI revealed that 5 lakh people have migrated out of the state in the last 10 years – and the rate of migration is only increasing. National Statistical Office (NSO) data from 2020 shows alarmingly high rates of unemployment, with nearly one third of Uttarakhand’s urban youth being unemployed….What is PM Modi’s government doing to stem this mass exodus from the state, to solve the pressing unemployment crisis, or at the least to end this constant stream of paper leaks?”

The Congress leader said that it has been more than 18 months since Ankita Bhandari was assaulted and brutally murdered at the Vanantara Resort in Rishikesh.

“The Chief Minister has repeatedly expressed support for Ankita’s family, and stated that his government is doing “everything in their power” to support the investigation. Yet, last month, a journalist was arrested on a trumped-up charge because he dared to highlight the government’s willful negligence in this matter. What is the PM doing to ensure that Ankita’s family gets justice? Will BJP leaders face any consequences for obstructing justice,” he questioned in his post.

“PM Modi touts his government’s infrastructure build-out as a key achievement. Nowhere is this refrain more unconvincing than in Uttarakhand, which has seen multiple disasters in recent years due to haphazard, irresponsible, and corrupt infrastructure development. The town of Joshimath began “sinking” rapidly in January 2023. Less than a week before massive cracks appeared in the ground, a delegation of residents had tried in vain to raise the issue with the BJP’s Chief Minister, who dismissed their fears as unfounded. This is just one of many hill towns that is at risk because the government has ignored its own experts’ advice and warnings in their rush to award contracts to builders” the Congress leader posted.

Meanwhile, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Dhami said that the state is all ready to welcome the PM and assured that the state would see a clean sweep for the BJP in the LS polls.

“Respected Prime Minister, Devbhoomi Uttarakhand is ready to welcome you, all the people of the state have resolved to achieve the target of crossing 400 seats by winning all the five seats of the state with huge vote margins. Uttarakhand is once again ready to write new chapters of development in your third term,” he posted on X.

Uttarakhand Tunnel Incident Sparks Public Outrage

November 15, 2023, 12:39 pm

Protests erupted near the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel in Uttarakhand as 40 labourers remained trapped inside since a section collapsed on Sunday. Workers, impatient over the delay in rescue operations, expressed frustration as fresh debris hindered the progress of auger drilling machines. Despite ongoing relief efforts, natural obstacles impeded drilling speed, prompting authorities to arrange for a heavy auger drilling machine to expedite the process. The Uttarakhand DGP, Ashok Kumar, assured that central agencies, along with the Air Force, are working relentlessly to evacuate all workers safely.

District officials, including the DM Abhishek Ruhela, provided reassurance to the anxious families gathered at the site. A technical team, led by Deepak Malik, a drilling and boring expert, is spearheading efforts to establish a passage for the trapped workers. The collapse occurred during the construction of the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri National Highway tunnel, with officials emphasizing that workers inside are receiving essential supplies and medical aid through tubes. The rescue operation continues in Uttarkashi, with hope pinned on the imminent arrival of advanced drilling equipment.

Uttarakhand’s Badrinath Covered in Snow for the Second Straight Day

November 11, 2023, 12:53 pm

Badrinath town in Uttarakhand has experienced uninterrupted snowfall for over two days since Friday evening, covering the sacred Badrinath Dham in a two-inch layer of snow. This revered site, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations, transformed into a picturesque winter landscape, as captured in visuals reported by ANI.

The ongoing snowfall adds to the seasonal beauty of Badrinath, signaling the arrival of winter. Authorities recorded two inches of snow in the temple town during the persistent snowfall.

As per earlier announcements, the portals of Shri Badrinath Dham are scheduled to close for the winter season from November 18. The doors were opened for devotees on April 27 earlier this year, marking the beginning of the pilgrimage season.

Uttarakhand Police Headquarters reported that by October 16, the number of pilgrims visiting Char-Dham had surpassed 50 lakhs, with approximately 5,40,000 vehicles reaching the pilgrimage sites. The pilgrimage season saw significant footfall, with over 17,8000 devotees visiting Kedarnath Dham, 15,9000 visiting Badrinath Dham, 8,46,000 pilgrims at Gangotri, 6,94,000 at Yamunotri, and over 1,77,000 devotees at Hemkund Sahib.

The portals of Shri Gangotri Dham are scheduled to close for winter on November 14, followed by the closure of Shri Yamunotri Dham on November 15, according to an official statement from the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee. The changing weather and imminent closures mark the conclusion of this year’s pilgrimage season in the sacred Char Dham circuit.

Uttarakhand: Uniform Civil Code panel tenure extended by 4 months

September 23, 2023, 7:45 pm

The duration of the expert committee responsible for drafting a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) for Uttarakhand has been prolonged by four months.

A statement from the Chief Minister’s office announced, “The Uttarakhand government has granted a four-month extension to the expert committee led by Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai for the Uniform Civil Code.”

The committee was established on May 27, 2022, and this marks the third instance of an extension being granted to a committee initially set to conclude its work by September 27. Although the committee has compiled a draft after considering public input, it has not yet submitted its report to the government, according to the statement.

The expert committee had submitted a proposal requesting a four-month extension, which was subsequently approved by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Additional Secretary (Home) Radha Raturi, on behalf of the Chief Minister’s office, issued the order to extend the committee’s tenure by four months.

In a previous statement in August, Chief Minister Dhami affirmed that the UCC would be implemented in the state as soon as the draft was completed.

“It is our resolution to bring the Uniform Civil Code as soon as possible. When we get the UCC draft, we will take this process forward this year. We will move ahead to implement it,” Dhami told the media.

Uttarakhand: Police raids illegal casino in Rishikesh, 31 arrested

September 23, 2023, 12:55 pm

A police operation took place at the Neeraj Forest Resort situated in Ganga Bhogpur, Rishikesh, where an illicit gambling establishment was operating.

In this operation, law enforcement detained a total of 31 individuals, which included four members of the gambling crew. Additionally, during the raid, the police discovered five female dancers present at the casino and confiscated items such as playing cards, casino chips, cash, and mobile phones.

Pauri Garhwal SSP Shweta Choubey said, “The police received information that an illegal gambling racket was being run at a casino in the Neeraj Forest Resort located in Ganga Bhogpur. Based on the information, the team formed under the leadership of Additional SP Jaya Baluni conducted a sudden raid on Neeraj Forest Resort. Heavy police force in plain clothes and PAC were deployed around the resort.”

“Laxman Jhula police station and the SOG team jointly conducted the raid at midnight. As soon as the police raid was conducted, there was panic among the resort employees,” she added.

The SSP added that the illicit gambling operation was being conducted in the basement of the wellness facility situated behind the resort.

The SSP further said, “27 people have been arrested there and four crew members were also arrested by the police. Apart from this, five women were found present on the spot. Who claimed to be a dancer in the casino.”

“The action is still going on. The basement of the casino has been sealed and 10 vehicles have been seized at the spot,” she added.

Uttarakhand: Govt postpones recruitment selections after anomalies complaints

August 4, 2023, 3:15 pm

The Uttarakhand Medical Services Selection Board postponed recruitments on Thursday after receiving complaints regarding anomalies, according to an official statement.
The postponement was granted on the orders of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who had received concerns about the board’s selection procedure, according to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

“On the instructions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the selection process done by the Uttarakhand Medical Services Selection Board and the selection process being done has been postponed with immediate effect,” said the statement by the CMO.

The statement further reads “”The Chief Minister ordered the immediate postponement of the selections being made by the board and a thorough investigation of the process followed by it in recruitments.”

CM Dhami vows strict probe and action against ‘Love Jihad’ cases

June 9, 2023, 4:03 pm

On Friday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that the state authorities have called for a strict investigation and operations targeting cases related to ‘love jihad.’

CM Dhami added that today, a high-level meeting with the Director General of Police (DGP) and other officials will be chaired to address this issue.

The city of Uttarkashi recently witnessed tensions due to an alleged abduction attempt on a 14-year-old girl last month, involving two men, one of whom belonged to the minority community.

Both men have since been arrested, according to officials.”

Char Dham attracts over 20 lakh devotees, says Uttarakhand govt

June 4, 2023, 3:27 pm

According to authorities on Sunday, the ongoing Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has witnessed over 20 lakh devotees visiting the Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri shrines, with registrations from over 40 lakh pilgrims for the Yatra.

According to the government, a maximum of 7.13 lakh devotees have visited Baba KedarNath since the yatra started on 17 May, 2023.

Earlier, Uttarakhand Police said the number of pilgrims who went on the Char Dham Yatra had crossed 15 lakh as of 27 May.

These included 3,12,422 from Gangotri, 2,82,857 from Yamunotri, 5,37,065 from Kedarnath, 4,39,782 from Badrinath, and 8,551 from Hemkund Sahib, as per the government officials statements.

The Char Dham Yatra began on the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya on 22 April.

Hemkund Sahib yatra halted on friday after snow covers route

May 26, 2023, 4:49 pm

Chamoli police in Uttarakhand have announced that the Yatra of Shri Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh shrine in Uttarakhand, has been temporarily halted due to the presence of snow on the Yatra route.

In a tweet, the police advised devotees to find safe locations to stop, as heavy rains were expected on Friday. They emphasized the importance of devotees’ safety and stated that the Yatra of Shri Hemkund Sahib would not take place on 26 May, 2023.

The police urged people to wait for further instructions and mentioned the Hemkunt Foundation in their tweet.

Additionally, the police reported that the trekking route from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib was completely covered with snow, which they attributed to recent heavy snowfall. They provided a visual update of the Hemkund Sahib Yatra route in a separate tweet.

Guardians of Culture and Civilization: Celebrating Uttarakhand’s Women

May 22, 2023, 4:09 am

Writers and photographers alike have always been drawn to the tenacity and entrepreneurial drive of the women from the hillside communities. While women’s lives have always been difficult in rural areas across the nation, they are made even more difficult in the hills due to the lack of resources and easy access to them in Uttarkhand’s bare-bones villages.

But that they chose to stay behind and till the land, these women are in fact the real custodians of our civilization and culture. While displacement continues to be an enormous problem in the majority of Uttarakhand’s villages, it is the women who have retained hold of what is still there. And the reasons for their ability to be tenacious and enterprising are their ability to
Go Slow: Writer and journalist Neelesh Misra has made slow village living really popular, and it’s intriguing to see how it can even be made aspirational to not constantly be in a rush. But it’s true that sometimes in life it’s vital to go slow, to take stock, to enjoy what you already have, and to set your priorities right.Women in the community up in the hills set the pace despite having hundreds of responsibilities, such as caring for the family, livestock, and crops.
Work hard with a smile: The women in the hillside communities work very hard. Even though they work like machines, they nonetheless have an unrivalled sense of humour. They will always pause to grin and converse with you, even when they have a great load on their heads. If you believe you’re having a hard time, go to a hamlet where the ladies work nonstop from dawn till dusk, never whining and always finding a way to get by. You seldom hear women complain about their lack of facilities, as they embrace frugality.
Take pride: You’ll never witness a village woman in Uttarakhand begging for food. With the little they can grow on their fields, they have figured out how to survive and prosper. In Uttarakhand, villagers take pride in their unique identities and cultures. Something that needs to be reignited among the Uttarakhand is in exile.

Be fearless: The women in the highlands have no fear. No man or animal terrifies them. They have their ‘daraants’ (sickles) by their sides, which serve as much as a tool to cut grass as they do as a weapon to protect. Their ability to climb the challenging terrain while carrying the bulky loads of wood, grass, or leaves for their cows and buffaloes is a testament to both their physical and mental fortitude.
Defy the odds: Take any historical event from the Chipko movement to the fight for a separate state; women pushed the movement’s outcomes even when being subjected to the most brutal and violent attacks. That may explain why it has consistently shown positive results.

Bond over Sisterhood: A woman up in the hills is always there for another woman. Women tend to one another in joy and defend one another when they are in need. A remarkable ability to offer assistance and support despite being short on resources.
The grit, the vitality, and above all, the love for the motherland are what sustain the otherwise corroding lives and livelihoods in Uttarakhand. The women in the metropolis cannot comprehend the life that the women in the hills have, deprived of comforts.

Lipika Bhushan is a writer, founder of MarketMyBook and an Uttarakhandi.

Book titled ‘Cyber Encounters’ on cybercrime unveiled by CM Dhami

May 7, 2023, 5:33 pm

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday released a book titled “Cyber Encounters” at St. Joseph’s Academy, Rajpur Road.

DGP Uttarakhand Ashok Kumar and former DRDO scientist OP Manocha authored a book which has been praised by CM Dhami for its relevance to an important subject. The book analyzes cyber crimes and draws from true incidents, offering insights that will help readers avoid falling victim to cyber crimes. CM Dhami lauded the authors and the publisher, Prabhat Prakashan, for their efforts. The book not only raises awareness through true stories but also entertains readers, inspiring them to take measures to protect themselves from cybercrime on each page.

The CM emphasized that cybercrime is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and the book authored by the state’s DGP enhances public awareness of this challenge. With the rapid development of technology, the rate of cybercrime is also increasing, leading to an ongoing cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and criminals, with both parties trying to outsmart each other. The rising trend of cybercrime highlights the fact that criminals are constantly devising new techniques. To counter this, the police are also continually improving their methods. However, we as individuals can protect ourselves from these technical crimes by being vigilant and aware.

Horticulture department to set up six polyhouses: CM Dhami

May 4, 2023, 4:40 pm

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made a significant announcement on Thursday regarding the farming sector in the state.

He stated that the Horticulture Department of the state would be constructing six polyhouses, with four planned for project areas and the remaining two to be located in battalion headquarters.

The Chief Minister made this announcement while inaugurating the Bolero vehicles and motorcycles provided to the Eco Task Force by the Uttarakhand Horticulture Department at Garhi Cantt, Dehradun.

During the event, two Bolero pickups and 10 motorcycles were handed over to the Eco Task Force. In addition, the Public Works Department will provide two JCBs for 120 days to conserve rainwater before the monsoon season in both project areas.

Tanks with a capacity of 50,000 litres will also be constructed for water storage under the Jal Jeevan Mission at Sahiya, Kasyali, and the battalion headquarters of the Eco Task Force, the Chief Minister added.

CM Dhami inaugurates 36 schemes in Kaladhungi

April 7, 2023, 6:22 pm

On Friday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated 36 schemes worth Rs 95 crores and 9 lakhs, and also laid the foundation stone for various development projects in Kaladhungi of Uttarakhand’s Nainital, an official release from the state government said.

The chief minister stated, “Today’s day will prove to be helpful in bringing in a new era of development in Vidhansabha Kaladhungi,” in his remarks on the occasion. These 36 projects are concerned with matters of public concern, such as the building of highways, the improvement of drinking water supplies, and irrigation potential.

He added that these projects have paved the way for the future of this region, and that after they are finished, the region would see comprehensive development. The drinking water programme will benefit 8012 local residents, he continued.

The Chief Minister said that strict anti-copying law has been implemented in the state for transparency in examinations. This month 4 competitive exams are being conducted and requests for vacant posts have been sent to the commission.

The state administration will execute a new education strategy, construct a horizontal reservation system for the state’s women, develop a draught of the Uniform Civil Code, and give Antyodaya families access to three gas cylinders. The administration has done everything from enacting a rigorous anti-copying law to providing 10% horizontal reservation in government posts to state agitators and their dependents, according to CM Dhami.

In Vidhan Sabha Kaladhungi, the Chief Minister unveiled two projects: the Rs 159 lakh Anandpur Tubewell Drinking Water Scheme and the Rs 398 lakh Lamachaud Khas Tubewell Drinking Water Scheme. In addition to this, CM Dhami also set the cornerstone for 34 other plans to build Kaladhungi.

ITBP rescues 26 people after bus plunges into gorge

April 2, 2023, 5:42 pm

On Sunday, The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) rescued 26 people from a roadway bus which lost control and rolled down 150 feet gorge on the Mussoorie-Dehradun highway.

A bus accident near Shergadi on the Mussoorie-Dehradun main route resulted in up to two girls dying and numerous others being hurt. The ITBP quickly moved its troops at adjacent locations after receiving the information, and they were able to save 26 people.

“26 people were rescued from a gorge on the Mussoorie-Dehradun highway by Indo-Tibetan Border Police personnel when a state transport bus rolled down 150 ft after losing control near JP bend,” said the ITBP.
The force said that all the rescued were shifted to hospitals, some of which are reported as “critical.”

Joshimath land subsidence: Affected families can stay in hotels till April 30

April 2, 2023, 1:23 pm

The Uttarakhand government announced on Sunday that the families displaced by the events would be housed until April 30.

While reviewing the district administration’s proposal, the government extended the deadline from March 31 to April 30. Apart from this, instructions have been provided to handle payments at the hotels, lodges, or homestays where the families are staying.In the municipal region, 694 people from 181 families are currently living in hotels, Dharamshalas, and homestays.

Earlier on Friday, the hotel owners issued an ultimatum asking the affected people in the hotels to vacate the rooms by March 31.Following this, the district administration said that it has written to the government for extending the deadline.

Earlier on January 28, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) informed that the number of buildings with cracks has not increased and till now 863 buildings with cracks have been noticed due to the disaster.
Hundreds of residents were shifted to relief centres in safe places after cracks appeared at several homes in Joshimath, suggesting subsidence.
The Uttarakhand government has already announced relief packages worth crores for the affected families of Joshimath.
In January, Chief Minister Dhami said that the relief package has been released for nearly 3,000 families affected by gradual land subsidence in the Himalayan state.

Huge investment in infrastructure to generate employment: PM Modi

February 20, 2023, 3:26 pm

According to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his administration is actively investing in infrastructure in Uttarakhand to improve living conditions for residents of remote areas and to create a variety of job opportunities. On Monday, the “Rozgar Mela” for Uttarakhand was virtually inaugurated, and Prime Minister Modi made the comment. Jobs are becoming more available for everyone, whether they work in engineering, construction, or small firms that deal in raw materials. “Youth (in Uttarakhand) are finding new work prospects due to an increase in demand in the transportation sector,” PM Modi stated. Regarding the migration of people from Uttarakhand to urban areas, he claimed that better road and internet connectivity in the hill state will offer them work options in their own locality, especially in the domestic tourist sector. He also said that the old perception that “pahad ka paani aur pahad ki jawani pahad ke kaam nahi aati” needs to be changed. There have been continuous efforts by the government to send back youth to their villages while providing them with better employment avenues, he added.

To further spur job growth the government is heavily investing in the infrastructure sector in Uttarakhand to make life easier for people living in far-flung areas. The Rozgar Mela is a virtual inauguration ceremony for new government employees in Uttarakhand and is a testament to the increased focus of the government on creating more jobs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also pointed out the need for teachers to play a big role in preparing students for the new century according to the new education policy. He emphasized the need for teachers to be the medium for big change.

Land Subsidence Engulfs Uttrakhand’s Joshimath

December 31, 2022, 4:51 pm

The incident of land subsidence in the Joshimath town of the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand has made people flee from their houses to safer places This is also known as the vertical sinking of the land in an area.

A total of nine wards of Joshimath town have been affected by landslides. Due to the winter season, the cracks in the walls and the floors of the houses are getting deeper with each passing day.

Municipal President of Joshimath, Shailendra Pawar said more than 3000 people had been evacuated from 576 houses in the area affected by the landslide. “All the houses are being surveyed by the municipality. Many people have also left their homes,” he said.

According to the reports, soon a meeting will be held with the Chief Minister of Uttrakhand with the demand for rehabilitation for the people affected by the subsidence.

Uttarakhand: People share opinions on UCC

December 4, 2022, 1:36 pm

People are expressing their views on Uniform Civil Code by putting forth their suggestions on the matter, a member of the UCC committee informed on Sunday.

The UCC member said, “When the committee went to the people to know their opinion on the UCC, people expressed their views on limiting family size, focusing on gender equality.”

He added, “Equal rights for the daughters in ancestral properties, and registration of live-in relationships have been suggested to the committee.”

But the state government’s UCC committee hasn’t yet provided the Uttarakhand government with its advice. According to the UCC member, they are still researching the public’s viewpoints.

He confirmed that only after considering people’s opinion the draft of UCC recommendations will be sent to the government.

According to sources, the Uttarakhand government has added six months to the mandate of its uniform civil code committee, which is led by Justice (retired) Ranjana Prakash Desai, a former judge of the Supreme Court.

The Committee was established to look at how the Uniform Civil Code could be implemented (UCC).

By May 27, 2023, the committee may deliver its report to the government.

Over 30 locations have been visited by the panel so far to collect suggestions from the public, and the committee has already received over 2.25 lakh suggestions.

The state of Uttarakhand’s administration announced its choice to adopt the Uniform Civil Code on May 27 of this year.

In order to develop a draught proposal for the implementation of the UCC, which broadly relates to the personal laws of citizens that apply to everyone regardless of their religion, gender, or sexual orientation, the State government established the five-member committee led by Desai.

Additionally on the panel are retired Justice Permod Kohli, Manu Gaur, a social activist, Shatrughan Singh, a former chief secretary, and Surekha Dangwal, vice chancellor of Doon University.

Uttarakhand: Tenure of Uniform Civil Code Committee extended

December 2, 2022, 12:27 pm

The Uttarakhand government has extended the mandate of its uniform civil code committee by six months, according to authorities on Friday.

The Committee was established to look into how the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) may be implemented, and its chair is former Supreme Court justice (retired) Ranjana Prakash Desai. By May 27, 2023, the committee may deliver its report to the government.

More than 30 locations have already been visited by the panel to collect proposals from the public. More than 2.25 lakh ideas have been submitted to the committee thus far.

The state of Uttarakhand’s administration announced its choice to adopt the Uniform Civil Code on May 27 of this year.

In order to create a draft proposal for the implementation of the UCC, which broadly relates to the personal laws of citizens that apply to everyone regardless of their religion, gender, or sexual orientation, the State government established the five-member team chaired by Desai.

Additionally on the panel are retired Justice Permod Kohli, Manu Gaur, a social activist, Shatrughan Singh, a former chief secretary, and Surekha Dangwal, vice chancellor of Doon University.

The expert committee’s inaugural meeting took place in July.

The state launched a webpage in September of this year to receive recommendations from the public regarding UCC. It is open to recommendations from public representatives, individuals, academics, organisations, and state agencies.

A plan to create and implement personal laws that apply to all Indian residents equally, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity, is known as the “Uniform Civil Code.” Currently, the religious texts of different communities regulate their personal laws.

The law is covered by Article 44 of the Constitution, which states that the state must work to ensure that citizens have access to a uniform civil code across all of India.

Notably, the BJP pledged to implement UCC if it won the 2019 Lok Sabha election by making the commitment in its manifesto.

Chhawla rape case: Uttarakhand CM expresses gratitude to Delhi L-G for enabling reconsideration of the accused’s acquittal

November 21, 2022, 4:59 pm

Pushkar Singh Dhami, the chief minister of Uttarakhand, thanked VK Saxena, the lieutenant governor of Delhi, for approving the filing of a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging the acquittal of the three defendants in the Chhawla rape and murder case.

“Thankful to Delhi Lt. Gov. for the decision towards the path of getting justice for the nation’s daughter. We are standing with the victim’s family and will help in whichever way possible,” CM Dhami said.

After meeting with Delhi L-G VK Saxena and requesting that he file a review petition challenging the conviction of all three defendants, the parents of the 2012 Chhawla gangrape victim learned of the L-decision G’s a few days later.

The case concerns the alleged February 9, 2012, kidnapping, gang-rape, and murder of a 19-year-old female from Uttarakhand’s Pauri by three men in the Chhawla neighbourhood of Dwarka in the capital. The Delhi High Court’s decision to sentence the three defendants to life in prison in the aforementioned case was overturned by the Supreme Court on November 7, clearing the three of all charges.

Additionally, L-G Saxena has given his approval for the appointment of Additional SG Aishwariya Bhati and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to defend the government before the Supreme Court.

The parents of the murdered teenage girl sought police protection after two of the three accused were released from Rohini Jail out of fear.

The suspects were detained on February 13, 2012, and on May 26, 2012, the court of sessions framed charges against all three suspects, namely Rahul, Ravi Kumar, and Vinod alias Chhotu. The police filed a charge sheet following their investigation.

Following the trial in the case, the court of sessions found all three of them guilty and sentenced them to death on February 13, 2014. They later entered a plea, which was subsequently rejected.

The three defendants subsequently appealed the HC’s decision to the Supreme Court, which, in its decision on November 7, granted the appeals and set aside the conviction and sentence decisions made by the Trial Court and High Court.

Considering the welfare of the family of the 19-year-old gang rape victim whose mutilated body was discovered in 2012, three days after she was kidnapped, in Haryana, DCW Chairperson Swati Maliwal has initiated suo moto action.

The 19-year-old was kidnapped from Qutub Vihar and lived in Chhawla, Delhi. The girl endured the worst horrors before being brutally killed.

The trial court had earlier this year found the defendants guilty and sentenced them to death. The Delhi High Court upheld the decision as well, describing the situation as the “rarest of rare cases.”

5 enigmatic Places in India that will blow your mind

November 15, 2022, 5:17 pm

There are several enigmatic sites in India, from a place where birds commit suicide to a fort where entry is prohibited after sunset. India is undoubtedly a nation of mystery, with a rich culture, a lengthy history, and millions of people who hold mystical and supernatural beliefs. Additionally, several locations in India contradict accepted rules of physics and nature. Five such places are listed here.

Kuldhara village, Rajasthan: The abandoned village

More than 1,500 Paliwal Brahmins, descended from a group that had lived in the area for more than five centuries, lived in Kuldhara about 200 years ago. However, all 85 villages’ inhabitants as well as the general populace escaped one day, overnight. Folklore holds that the inhabitants of Kuldhara left the village with a curse, forbidding any further settlements, rather than simply leaving it as it was. Today, all that is left are a few decaying structures, an ancient temple, and rumours that attempt to explain the sudden evacuation.

How to reach there?

Rail: Jaisalmer, the Golden City of Rajasthan, is about 18 kilometres away from Kuldhara. At Old Delhi Junction, board the Howrah Jaisalmer Express for a 14-hour trip to Jaisalmer.

Road: The 770-kilometer trip from Delhi to Jaisalmer would take approximately 12 hours to complete.

Kodinhi, Kerela: The village of Twins

Kodinhi, a small town located 35 kilometres south of Calicut in Kerala’s Malappuram district, would not have gained international attention if it weren’t for the exceptionally high number of twin births that are frequently reported there. Kodinhi, also referred to as the “Village of Twins,” is home to almost 200 sets of twins and two sets of triplets. It’s fascinating that Kodinhi women who get married outside of their tribe also give birth to several children! Some doctors think that the local water’s chemical composition holds the key to this riddle, despite the fact that the majority of researchers have been unable to solve it.

How to reach there?

Air: Flying up to Calicut International Airport is the best and quickest way to reach this enigmatic village. You can then hire a taxi to take you the last 40 kilometres to Kodinhi.

Kongka La Pass, Ladakh: An Alien Abode

Kongka La Pass, at a height of 16,970 feet, is a low-ridge pass located in a region where China and India have a contentious border. Locals on either side of the border think that the area is inhabited by extraterrestrials, despite the fact that neither the Indian nor Chinese armed forces patrol the area. Here, reports of everything from UFO sightings to encounters with odd humanoids are rather regular.

How to reach there?

Air: Since the Pass is located in a disputed region, access is impeded. By taking a flight from Delhi to Leh, one can still learn more about the strange UFO sightings near the Kongka La Pass.

Roopkund, Uttrakhand: The Skeleton Lake

Every year, hundreds of human skeletons can be seen floating in Roopkund, a glacial lake at an elevation of 16,500 feet, as the ice melts. The bones in Roopkund Lake were rediscovered in 1942 by a forest ranger, but their whereabouts have remained a mystery ever since. Forensic analysis and radiocarbon dating have led researchers to estimate the age of the bodies to be around 1,200 years. Nobody is certain of these individuals’ identities or of their activities in such a hostile area of the Himalayas. Folklore has it that the skeleton remains belong to King Jasdhawal of Kanauj, his expectant wife, and a large number of servants who were on their way to the shrine of Nanda Devi.

How to reach there?

Road: Just as challenging as deciphering the puzzle of the bones is getting to Roopkund in Uttarakhand. If Delhi is your starting location, take the highway up to Loha Jang Pass. From there, hike the remaining 34 kilometres to Roopkund Lake.

Jatinga, Assam: Where Birds Commit Suicide

The Assamese village of Jatinga offers all the amenities you would want from a tranquil vacation spot. Instead of its lush vegetation and mountainous backdrop, Jatinga is well-known for a strange phenomenon that occurs every year in the monsoon season. Hundreds of migratory birds commit mass suicide here just after sunset. Unsurprisingly, the locals offer the scary explanation that the incident was caused by malevolent spirits in the skies. Naturally, ornithologists have developed their own scientific theory because they aren’t happy with this explanation. They claim that the birds are confused by the thick monsoon fog and high altitude. These disoriented birds crash into trees and buildings as they attempt to fly toward the village lights, whereupon many are killed or severely injured. Nobody has ever offered an explanation for why these birds only fly at night or why they always end up stranded in the same spot.

How to reach there?

Air: Board a flight to Silchar Airport in Assam and complete the remaining journey of around 100 km by road to reach it.