CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke was allegedly slapped by two youths during a protest in Jaipur over examination irregularities and unemployment. Two accused were detained as Dipke vowed to continue the campaign demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Abhijeet Dipke slapped during Jaipur protest; 'intimidation tactics', alleges CJP founder

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke was allegedly slapped by two youths during a protest in Jaipur over examination irregularities and unemployment. Two accused were detained as Dipke vowed to continue the campaign demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke was allegedly slapped multiple times by two men while supporters carried him on their shoulders during a protest in Jaipur on Monday, police said. Two youths have been detained in connection with the incident, they said.
Following the incident, Dipke addressed the gathering and raised slogans against divisive politics, urging people not to be divided along religious or caste lines.
Later, in a video message on X, the CJP chief alleged that this (attack on him) is a tactic by those who want to "disrupt our movement".
"But we cockroaches will not be intimidated by these tactics. (Union Education Minister) Dharmendra Pradhan will have to resign...this is our only aim," he said.
"Don&rsquo;t get distracted. Dharmendra Pradhan Must Resign!" he also wrote on X.
According to police and eyewitnesses, the incident occurred at Shaheed Smarak where a number of youths had gathered to protest over issues such as the alleged NEET paper leak, CBSE marking system, and unemployment.
As Dipke arrived at the venue and was being carried on supporters' shoulders, two youths in the crowd allegedly slapped him.
His supporters later caught hold of the accused and assaulted them before the police intervened.
Videos of the incident have gone viral on social media.
The police said that one of the detained accused, identified as Rakesh Gurjar, claimed he was a nationalist while alleging that Dipke has a 'Jihadi' mindset and is misleading people.
Gurjar said that paper leak is just an excuse.
Reacting to the incident, CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka alleged that Rajasthan has, in recent times, become a major centre for paper leaks.
He said the state, which produces many IITians and chartered accountants, is now witnessing a decline of its education system.
Ranka added that the gathering of youths at the protest site reflected growing concerns and asserted that efforts would be made to reform the education system.
Protesters were seen carrying placards with slogans such as "Stop paper leak" and "We love the country, reject corruption", along with the national flag.
Some women also participated in the protest with their young children.
During the protest, slogans were raised demanding the resignation of Pradhan.
Volunteers also drew a cockroach sketch at the entrance of Shaheed Smarak and wrote slogans seeking the minister's resignation.
During his address, Dipke also announced that protesters would march to Delhi on June 20, asserting that they would not return without securing a resignation.
The Monday's protest concluded with the national anthem, after which Dipke was escorted to his vehicle by supporters amid chants of 'Vande Mataram' and "Bharat Mata ki Jai".
The demonstration was organised by the CJP over issues related to examination irregularities, paper leaks and unemployment, the police said.

India has strongly protested to the United States after three merchant vessels carrying Indian crew members were attacked off Oman in four days, resulting in the deaths of three Indian seafarers and raising concerns over maritime safety.

3 vessels with Indian seafarers attacked by US Navy; India says these strikes must stop

India has strongly protested to the United States after three merchant vessels carrying Indian crew members were attacked off Oman in four days, resulting in the deaths of three Indian seafarers and raising concerns over maritime safety.

India on Thursday said three merchant ships with Indian crew members came under attack from American military off the coast of Oman in the last four days resulting in the death of three nationals and it has lodged a strong protest with the US over the strikes.
It was New Delhi's first public acknowledgement that US Navy targeted the three ships with Indian crew members.
New Delhi asserted that these attacks must stop.
A Palau-flagged oil tanker, Marivex, carrying 24 Indian seafarers, was disabled by US forces on June 8. All crew members were safely rescued.
On June 10, US struck another Palau-flagged tanker Settebello, killing three out of the 24 Indian sailors on board.
Another vessel 'Jalveer', a Guinea-Bissau-flagged tanker with 20 Indians, was attacked on Thursday.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at a news briefing that the three separate strikes on the Settebello, Marivex and Jalveer "came from the US Navy".
Following the attack on Settebello on Wednesday that killed three Indians, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned US Charge d'Affaires Jason Meeks and he was handed a demarche or diplomatic note of protest.
"We attach high importance to the welfare and well-being of our seafaring community. When this particular attack on the ship Settebello occurred, we lodged a strong protest with the American side," Jaiswal said.
"We summoned the US Charge d'Affaires and he was conveyed our deepest concern over the ongoing incidents of attacks. We also registered our strong protest," he said.
Jaiswal emphasised that these attacks "must stop".
"We further conveyed that dialogue and diplomacy is the way forward for the peaceful resolution of the conflict, and that there should be unimpeded access through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law," he said.
"Therefore, we made our position very clear on each of these points, while reiterating how important the lives of our people are, welfare and safety of our people are," he added.
Jaiswal said two of the three vessels were subject to sanctions administered by the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), while another had been classified as non-compliant.
The OFAC is the financial intelligence and enforcement agency of the US Treasury Department and it acts against vessels involved in violating US sanctions on the sale of Iranian and Russian oil.
"The three ships that have been involved in these incidents were foreign-flagged vessels. Two of them were Palau-flagged, while the third ship is Guinea-Bissau-flagged. They were not Indian-owned ships," the MEA spokesperson said.
US Central Command (Centcom) has confirmed strikes on Settebello and Marivex but is yet to comment on reported strikes on Jalveer.
Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping &amp; Waterways, said evacuation of the seafarers on Jalveer has commenced.
From Settebello, all the remaining 25 crew members including 21 Indians, two Pakistani, one Russian and one Ukranian have been safely evacuated, he said, adding the Seamen Welfare Fund Society has been asked to pay Rs 10 lakh to family of each deceased.
He said more than 18,000 Indian seafarers remained in the Gulf region, including 562 crew members aboard 13 Indian-flagged ships - 329 on vessels on the west of Strait of Hormuz and 233 on vessels in Gulf of Oman.
In its reaction, India also said that the continuing incidents of attacks on shipping are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region.
New Delhi has been pressing for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution.
"The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region in keeping with international law must be restored at the earliest," the MEA said in a statement on Tuesday.
At a separate media briefing, Secretary (West) in the MEA Sibi George indicated that the evolving situation in West Asia as well as restrictions on shipping through Strait of Hormuz may figure in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's bilateral meetings on the sidelines of G7 summit in France next week.

Three Indian crew members aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello have been confirmed dead following a US military strike off Oman. India has lodged a strong protest and pledged support to the victims' families.

Three missing Indian seafarers onboard MT Settebello confirmed dead: Sonowal

Three Indian crew members aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello have been confirmed dead following a US military strike off Oman. India has lodged a strong protest and pledged support to the victims' families.

Three Indian seafarers onboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello, initially reported missing after the US military strike on the commercial vessel off Oman coast, are now confirmed dead, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said on Thursday after bodies were located and identified.
It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello, Sonowal said in a social media post.
"Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified," he added.
The minister added that this is a "profound loss to our maritime family".
"The Modi Govt stands firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour and is fully committed to supporting the next of kin," he added.
Sonowal said he has directed officials to ensure immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites.
India on Wednesday summoned the US charge d'affaires to strongly protest a US military attack on a commercial vessel off the Oman coast that left three of the 24 Indian crew members missing.
The US Central Command acknowledged the strike, saying the vessel violated the ongoing US blockade of Iranian ports by attempting to transport oil from Iran.
"The US Central Command disabled Palau-flagged M/T Settebello as it transited the Gulf of Oman. A US aircraft fired precision munitions into the ship's engine room after the crew repeatedly failed to comply with directions from American forces," it had said in a statement.
In its statement on Wednesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the attack.
"We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, earlier today. Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and three Indians are reportedly missing," it had said.
The incident came amid renewed hostilities between Iran and Israel.
Israel carried out air strikes in western and central Iran after Iran fired missiles at northern Israel.

The National Commission for Women has summoned comedian Pranit More and web developer Himanshu Jangra over remarks made during a Gurugram stand-up show, citing concerns about the glorification of sexual coercion and non-consensual conduct.

Rs 370 biryani remark: NCW summons More, Jangra over Gurugram comedy show

The National Commission for Women has summoned comedian Pranit More and web developer Himanshu Jangra over remarks made during a Gurugram stand-up show, citing concerns about the glorification of sexual coercion and non-consensual conduct.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday summoned comedian Pranit More and web developer Himanshu Jangra over remarks allegedly made during a stand-up comedy show in Gurugram that the commission said appeared to glorify sexual coercion and non-consensual conduct towards a woman.
Taking suo motu cognisance of media reports and a viral video of the incident, the commission said its chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Haryana Director General of Police, seeking immediate and time-bound action and requesting an Action Taken Report within seven days.
"The NCW has taken suo motu cognisance of widely reported media coverage and viral video footage concerning an incident during a stand-up comedy show held in Gurugram, Haryana, where remarks allegedly glorifying sexual coercion and non-consensual conduct towards a woman were publicly made and subsequently applauded," the commission said in a statement.
Expressing concern over the video's content, the commission said the "normalisation or glorification of behaviour that undermines a woman's consent, dignity and bodily autonomy has far-reaching consequences for women's safety and social attitudes towards gender-based violence."
The commission said it has sought details regarding the status of an FIR under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other applicable laws, action taken against those involved, examination and authentication of the viral video evidence, and the role of organisers, performers and venue management in the incident.
The commission also sought information on measures proposed by the state police to ensure that public entertainment platforms and digital spaces do not become vehicles for "promoting, encouraging or normalising sexual harassment, coercion, or conduct that violates the dignity of women".
The NCW said a hearing in the matter is scheduled for June 22 at 4 pm.
"The NCW has strongly condemned the incident and reiterated that consent is non-negotiable. Any attempt to portray sexual coercion, entitlement, or disrespect towards a woman's autonomy as humour or entertainment is unacceptable and contrary to the principles of equality, dignity, and safety guaranteed to women under the Constitution and laws of India," the commission said.
The NCW said it would continue to monitor the matter closely and expected prompt and appropriate action from the concerned authorities.
The controversy began after Jangra recounted, during the show, a date when he spent Rs 370 on a plate of chicken biryani.
When the woman asked him to drop her home, Jangra said he sought sexual favours for the money he spent on the biryani.
More was seen laughing at Jangra's comment.
Later, both More and Jangra apologised for the incident after facing backlash on social media; the latter also deactivated his Instagram account.
A Gurugram firm also sacked him over his "Rs 370 biryani" remark.

TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee launched a sharp attack on Abhishek Banerjee, accusing him of arrogance and poor leadership, while urging Mamata Banerjee to choose between her nephew and veteran party loyalists.

'Choose between Abhishek and me': Kalyan issues ultimatum to Mamata amid TMC imbroglio

TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee launched a sharp attack on Abhishek Banerjee, accusing him of arrogance and poor leadership, while urging Mamata Banerjee to choose between her nephew and veteran party loyalists.

Senior TMC leader and MP Kalyan Banerjee on Thursday issued an ultimatum to party supremo Mamata Banerjee to choose between her nephew Abhishek Banerjee and veterans like him, accusing the party national general secretary of &ldquo;arrogance&rdquo; and &ldquo;fluctuating mindset&rdquo;.
Kalyan, also a senior advocate, declared he would remove himself from all legal matters and court petitions concerning Abhishek, although the MP said he would continue contesting cases related to the party.
The development comes amid the TMC supremo facing a serious existential crisis following fractures at both the Bengal assembly and in Parliament alongside multiple resignations, with an overwhelming majority of rebel MLAs and MPs challenging Abhishek&rsquo;s leadership after the party&rsquo;s assembly poll debacle.
Kalyan, who resigned as the TMC chief whip in Lok Sabha in August last year and was recently reappointed to the post in the wake of the rebellion of 20 party MPs in the Lower House, has so far remained among the few still standing in support of the Mamata Banerjee-led party structure and has strongly criticised the rebel camp.
The rift between the two leaders, however, came to a tipping point after Kalyan &ndash; who had been representing Abhishek in the Calcutta High Court in a signature forgery case of the CID &ndash; was allegedly informed that a separate writ petition was filed by the Diamond Harbour MP with regard to the search operations conducted by the agency at the TMC office at Mamata Banerjee&rsquo;s Kalighat residence and Abhishek&rsquo;s Camac Street office.
&ldquo;The two cases are connected, and I had mentioned the search operation issue before the bench that was hearing the signature forgery matter. The legal strategy was to seek leave in the forgery case, citing the illegal search operation. The judge had listed the matter to be heard on Thursday. Post midnight, some emissaries of Abhishek came to me to inform that a separate writ has been filed on the CID raid issue. I was taken aback since I had no knowledge of it,&rdquo; Kalyan told reporters.
The advocate alleged that when he asked why he wasn&rsquo;t taken into confidence, they told him that it was done &ldquo;on directions from the top&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Had I known about this, I wouldn&rsquo;t have mentioned the matter before the judge because two separate benches cannot hear the same matter. Abhishek has many advisors, and so I have told the party I would not represent him in any court cases in future, as it is impossible to deal with such arrogance and fluctuating mindset. I was later informed that a junior lawyer would contest his cases,&rdquo; Kalyan said.
The Lok Sabha MP from Sreerampur lashed out at Abhishek, alleging that the party supremo's nephew showed &ldquo;no respect&rdquo; for his &ldquo;45-year professional experience&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Why did he ask me to represent him if he had no trust in my abilities. Let his legal advisors guide him from now. I am not to be treated like a dustbin or an employee of his Camac Street office,&rdquo; Kalyan asserted.
The Sreerampur MP said the ball is now in Mamata Banerjee&rsquo;s court to decide on whether to run the TMC with her nephew or with party loyalists like him.
&ldquo;I will remain in this party only if Abhishek is removed from all leadership positions and retained only as an ordinary worker. Abhishek, who misbehaves with seniors and has the attitude of a boss, cannot be my leader in the party. I am sorry to say it will not be possible for me to remain in the TMC, if Didi (Mamata Banerjee) retains him as the leader,&rdquo; Kalyan said.
&ldquo;Didi must take the final call on whether she will retain her blood relative or workers like me, who have put in 40 years of our lives for her and this party,&rdquo; he added.
Holding Abhishek responsible for the assembly poll debacle, Kalyan alleged that Abhishek&rsquo;s &ldquo;continued arrogance&rdquo; stemmed from his &ldquo;denial of his gross unpopularity among people and party workers&rdquo;.
&ldquo;He seems to be failing to understand that the party faced a humiliating defeat in the elections and has been destroyed because of his policies and functioning style. He seems to be in denial that he has turned grossly unpopular among the people and party workers. It is because of him that people are calling me a &lsquo;thief&rsquo; although my political career is free of graft charges,&rdquo; he said, asserting that Mamata Banerjee is the only leader he follows.
Referring to his face-off with Abhishek in 2022, which centred on leadership, favouritism, and decision-making within the party &ndash; a clash widely seen at that time as a fissure between the party&rsquo;s old guards and new &ndash; Kalyan maintained that he was among the first to question the leadership style of Mamata Banerjee&rsquo;s nephew.
&ldquo;I was the only one then to raise my voice against him, foretelling this doom. I am consistent in my stand,&rdquo; he said.
Kalyan&rsquo;s son, Sirsanya, who unsuccessfully contested the recently-concluded state polls from the Uttarpara seat and has remained Abhishek&rsquo;s co-counsel in the fake signature case, attributed &ldquo;maintaining self-respect&rdquo; as reason for his quitting the job alongside his father.
&ldquo;I wore this lawyer&rsquo;s gown long before Abhishek Banerjee became the party&rsquo;s national general secretary. It is out of self-respect that I chose to stand down,&rdquo; he said, adding his decision will have no impact on his defending other TMC workers and leaders in court.
The Calcutta High Court on Thursday granted Abhishek interim protection from any coercive action in a signature forgery case over the party's choice of Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, provided the leader extended full cooperation to the CID investigation.
Abhishek, who has so far skipped three agency summonses, reached the Bhabani Bhaban CID headquarters to face questions from the investigating officers following his return from Delhi, in compliance with the newly set appearance deadline on 6 pm.

NDA leaders praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he became India's longest-serving elected prime minister, crediting him with stable governance, stronger national security, economic growth and enhanced global standing.

NDA leaders felicitate Modi as he becomes longest-serving elected PM

NDA leaders praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he became India's longest-serving elected prime minister, crediting him with stable governance, stronger national security, economic growth and enhanced global standing.

Leaders of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Wednesday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for becoming India's longest-serving elected prime minister, with Union ministers, chief ministers and other senior leaders of alliance partners crediting him with providing stable governance, strengthening national security, and enhancing India's global standing.
The remarks were made at a conclave of NDA constituents held at Bharat Mandapam here on Wednesday to mark the ruling coalition completing 12 years in office and Modi becoming India's longest-serving elected PM.
Addressing the gathering, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Modi's achievement reflects sustained public support in an era where politics is judged by performance.
"Today, Modi ji has broken a record that stood for 62 years. In the initial years after Independence, there was no real political competition and the Congress enjoyed the entire credit for freedom. But in today's era of performance-based politics, being repeatedly blessed by the people shows that Modi ji's journey is also a journey of democratic acceptance and endorsement," Shah said.
Shah said Modi's tenure will be remembered in golden letters for political stability, policy formulation and implementation, a strong foreign policy, and a defence policy that safeguards the nation's honour and security.
"Under your leadership, casteism, dynastic politics and appeasement politics have ended and politics of performance has been established," he said.
The home minister also said the prime minister's vision of a developed India by 2047 has instilled confidence in the country and helped overcome a "collective inferiority complex".
Highlighting India's achievements during the last 12 years, Shah referred to advances in connectivity, infrastructure, exports, innovation and startup growth, while also underlining the country's growing global stature.
He also highlighted that with 292 Lok Sabha MPs, 144 Rajya Sabha MPs, 2,315 MLAs and more than 222 Legislative Council members, the NDA today governs nearly 80 per cent of India's geographical area.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India's security architecture has been significantly strengthened under Modi's leadership.
"Our policy is clear: we will not provoke anyone, but if someone provokes us, we will not spare them," Singh said.
He asserted that there will be no compromise on national security and India's enemies will receive a strong response.
Singh said under Modi's leadership, India's policy is neither to speak from a position of arrogance nor from one of submission, but to engage with the world on equal terms.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu praised Modi's leadership and contribution to national development, and added that his commitment to public service and development is unparalleled.
"Modi ji, you are leading this century," Naidu said.
He further said Modi has set new benchmarks in infrastructure creation and welfare delivery.
"All of us, the entire NDA, are proud of you. Under your leadership, we remain committed to the nation's development," Naidu said.
Referring to the BJP's recent gains in West Bengal, Naidu expressed confidence that the state will play an important role in India's development journey.
"The overwhelming support that the BJP received in West Bengal under your leadership has convinced me that what Bengal thinks today, the rest of the country thinks tomorrow. Today, I can say, Prime Minister, that under your leadership, Bengal will represent the country's development," he said.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said Modi has emerged as a symbol of the aspirations and self-confidence of 1.4 billion Indians.
"You are the embodiment of the self-respect of 1.4 billion Indians and represent India's honour on the global stage," Shinde said.
Shinde also credited Modi with extending substantial financial support for Maharashtra's development.
"If Maharashtra has received the highest financial support for development, it is because of Modi ji," he said.
Union Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy said the milestone reflects the people's enduring faith in Modi's leadership.
"It is a reflection of the unwavering trust of the people in his leadership," Kumaraswamy said.
He expressed confidence that the goal of making India a developed nation by 2047 will be possible only under Modi's leadership and credited the prime minister with accelerating development across states.
Kumaraswamy said the Centre under Modi has increased financial support to states while ensuring faster implementation of development projects across the country.

The Cockroach Janta Party announced nationwide protests beginning in Pune on June 11 and warned of an indefinite sit-in at Jantar Mantar from June 20 if Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan does not resign over alleged examination irregularities.

CJP to launch nationwide protest on Thursday, warns of indefinite sit-in

The Cockroach Janta Party announced nationwide protests beginning in Pune on June 11 and warned of an indefinite sit-in at Jantar Mantar from June 20 if Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan does not resign over alleged examination irregularities.

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Wednesday announced a nationwide agitation beginning in Pune on June 11 and warned of an indefinite sit-in at Delhi's Jantar Mantar from June 20 if Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan does not resign.
The group said in a statement that protests will be held across several cities, including Pune, Lucknow, Amritsar, Bengaluru, Jaipur and Hyderabad, while CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke said in a post on X that climate activist Sonam Wangchuk will join the Pune demonstration on Thursday.
The CJP said protests will continue until Pradhan steps down, alleging repeated failures in the conduct of examinations and demanding accountability from the minister.
Calling it a national issue affecting millions of students and families, the group said, "The Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, has failed to take responsibility for these repeated failures. Accountability must begin at the top. That is why we reiterate our demand: Dharmendra Pradhan should resign."
It said if the government fails to act on the demand, "the youth of this country will gather together on June 20 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi for an indefinite peaceful sit-in protest till the minister resigns".
Describing itself as a movement to defend the integrity of India's education system, the CJP invited students, parents, teachers and citizens to join what it called a nationwide struggle for accountability and justice.
The announcement came days after the CJP organised a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on June 6, where students and young people from different parts of the country gathered to press for accountability over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and to seek Pradhan's resignation.
The group has gained visibility in recent weeks through social media campaigns centred on examination-related issues and has sought to position itself as a youth-led platform advocating reforms in the education sector.
Organisers had described the June 6 mobilisation as the beginning of a larger nationwide campaign, with Wednesday's announcement outlining the next phase of protests across multiple cities and a proposed indefinite sit-in in the national capital.

Rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee asserted that the dissident faction is the real TMC, claimed support of 64 MLAs, and ruled out any merger with Congress amid Mamata Banerjee's meetings with Congress leaders.

Rebel Trinamool leader Ritabrata claims dissident camp is ‘real TMC’, rules out merger with Congress

Rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee asserted that the dissident faction is the real TMC, claimed support of 64 MLAs, and ruled out any merger with Congress amid Mamata Banerjee's meetings with Congress leaders.

As Mamata Banerjee's meetings with the Congress leadership fuelled fresh speculation about the future of her embattled faction, rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee on Wednesday claimed ownership of the Trinamool Congress itself, declaring that the dissident camp was the "real TMC" and had no plans to merge with the grand old party.
Claiming that the strength of the dissident bloc had risen from 58 to 64 MLAs, Ritabrata said the rebels enjoyed the support of a majority of the party's legislators and a growing number of MPs, and would continue to function under the Trinamool Congress banner.
"We are the real Trinamool Congress. We are not merging with the Congress," Ritabrata told reporters outside the state assembly.
His remarks came amid heightened political speculation following Mamata Banerjee's meeting with Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi and reports of consultations between Abhishek Banerjee and senior Congress leaders in the national capital.
The meetings have fuelled intense chatter in political circles over the future course of the diminished Mamata-led faction of the TMC at a time when the party is battling the biggest internal crisis in its 28-year history.
Ritabrata, however, dismissed suggestions that the organisation could become part of any Congress-led arrangement.
"The number of MLAs with us has already crossed 64. It may become 65 tomorrow when another MLA joins us. Naturally, we are the real Trinamool Congress. Who meets whom in Delhi is their matter and is immaterial for us," he said.
The rebel leader said a fresh communication reflecting the changed strength of the legislative bloc would be submitted to the Speaker.
He further claimed that the dissident camp commanded support not only among MLAs but also among MPs, local body representatives and district-level leaders.
"Most legislators are not merging with the Congress. Most MPs are not merging with the Congress. Many district leaders and local body representatives are also not merging with the Congress. Then where is the question of a merger?" he asked.
Ritabrata also reiterated that the rebel MPs in the Lok Sabha would continue to support the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance.
The statement assumes significance as 20 rebel TMC MPs have already informed Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla about the formation of a separate parliamentary bloc under the leadership of Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar and pledged support to the NDA.
The TMC's organisational crisis burst into the open earlier this week when a rebellion that had first fractured its ranks in the West Bengal Assembly spread to Parliament.
The parliamentary rupture came days after 58 TMC MLAs, a figure the rebel camp now claims has climbed to 64, defied the party leadership and backed expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee as Leader of the Opposition instead of the party's official nominee, Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay.
The twin rebellions have plunged Mamata Banerjee's party into arguably the gravest crisis since its formation in 1998, transforming what began as internal dissent into a battle over legislative strength, parliamentary numbers, organisational control and political legitimacy.
The split has steadily widened from the Assembly to Parliament, with senior Rajya Sabha members Sukhendu Sekhar Ray and Sushmita Dev resigning from both the Upper House and the party.
Against this backdrop, the Delhi meetings between Mamata Banerjee, Abhishek Banerjee and the Congress leadership have acquired added political significance, with speculation rife that sections of the TMC still loyal to the Banerjees could explore closer ties or a merger with the Congress.
Though neither side has publicly spoken of a merger, the meetings have generated enough political buzz for the rebel camp to repeatedly clarify its position.
Asked what would happen if Mamata Banerjee eventually decided to merge her faction with the Congress, Ritabrata avoided a direct answer.
"Tomorrow will answer tomorrow's questions. As of today, the number is 64 and counting," he said.
The remark underscored the fluidity of a political crisis that has already redrawn Bengal's political landscape and left the once-dominant TMC battling simultaneous challenges to its legislative strength, parliamentary presence and organisational coherence.
For now, while Mamata Banerjee's camp is engaged in conversations in Delhi, the rebel faction appears determined to send a different message from Kolkata -- that the fight is no longer merely over numbers, but over who gets to claim ownership of the TMC itself.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reviewed preparations for the June 21 NEET-UG re-test, assuring strict security, smooth conduct, and transparency after the earlier paper leak controversy.

Dharmendra Pradhan reviews re-NEET preparations, assures students of error-free exam

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reviewed preparations for the June 21 NEET-UG re-test, assuring strict security, smooth conduct, and transparency after the earlier paper leak controversy.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday reviewed preparations for the June 21 NEET-UG re-test and assured candidates that measures have been put in place to ensure the examination is conducted smoothly, securely and without errors.
He also appealed to the candidates to focus on their studies, asserting that the government is taking extra precautions this time, from question paper setting to their delivery at the examination centres.
The minister assessed the readiness of the examination system and reviewed the measures being undertaken to ensure the smooth, secure and transparent conduct of the NEET-UG re-test.
During the review meeting at the headquarters of the National Testing Agency (NTA), Pradhan emphasised the importance of maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and integrity throughout the examination process, sources said.
He said special attention has been given to safeguarding every stage of the process, from the preparation of question papers to the secure transportation and timely delivery of examination materials to centres across the country, they added.
Pradhan also said that meetings have been held under the Cabinet secretary, and all the states have been asked to cooperate with the re-examination process.
&ldquo;The NTA is going to conduct the re-NEET on June 21. We have reviewed the preparations several times. Today, I visited the NTA headquarters to review the same,&rdquo; Pradhan told reporters.
&ldquo;From the preparation of question papers to ensuring that they reach the examination centres on time, we have taken additional precautions this time,&rdquo; he added.
On May 12, the NTA cancelled the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate), or NEET-UG, held on May 3 for medical admissions amid allegations of paper leak.
&ldquo;I have written to the chief ministers of all the states requesting their cooperation. Their support was there earlier as well, and I have requested them to pay even more attention this time,&rdquo; Pradhan said.
Several states have already held review meetings involving chief secretaries, DGs, district collectors and SPs, with the NTA DG participating in the discussions, the minister said.
Pradhan cited meetings in Bihar and Maharashtra, including one chaired by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and said he also discussed the matter with Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.
Pradhan said the Union home secretary is also expected to hold a review meeting in the coming days and that all concerned agencies are performing their assigned responsibilities.
The Centre last month strengthened the NTA by inducting new officials at the levels of joint secretary, director and deputy director, he said.
&ldquo;Both experienced and newly inducted officials have been assigned specific responsibilities. Some are handling logistics, some are supervising printing, some are coordinating with the Air Force, some with banks, some with states, while others are verifying software security," Pradhan said.
According to sources, the NTA is planning to rope in the Indian Air Force (IAF) to transport NEET question papers for the June 21 re-test, as authorities tighten security following the paper leak controversy.
Pradhan also said that agencies, including CERT-In, I4C, the Intelligence Bureau, the CBI, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Ministry of Home Affairs, are working together to address the cyber-security challenges.
"All these cyber protection agencies have been brought together and put to work," he said.
Expressing confidence in the arrangements, Pradhan said the re-examination will be conducted across 551 cities through 5,435 centres, including 14 centres outside India.
&ldquo;All arrangements are being completed. We have taken up this responsibility seriously. The NTA will certainly succeed in conducting the re-examination smoothly," he said.
Seeking to reassure the students and parents, the minister urged the candidates to focus on their preparation and not worry about the conduct of the examination.
&ldquo;We had earlier assured students that we would conduct an error-free examination and I want to reassure them now. We will also ensure that the results are declared on time so that students do not lose valuable learning time,&rdquo; he said.
"I want to tell the students &ndash; focus on your studies. We will conduct the re-NEET smoothly and without errors. Please cooperate with us,&rdquo; Pradhan added.
On security arrangements, including the possible use of the Air Force, the minister said the issue is being monitored at the highest levels of government.
"I have discussed the issue with Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. I will meet the Health Minister J P Nadda this evening. The finance ministry is also monitoring the matter. I am confident that we will fulfil our responsibilities," Pradhan said.
"Challenges existed earlier and they continue to exist. But all arrangements are in place this time," he added.
The minister also said that states have been asked to make suitable arrangements keeping local weather conditions in mind.
"We have asked the states to take all such factors into account. District magistrates, SPs and the concerned authorities are being instructed to make appropriate arrangements," he said.
"Our DG is directly interacting with almost all the district collectors. Through chief ministers and state governments, we are identifying areas that may require special attention," Pradhan added.
On the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG held on May 3 that was cancelled, Pradhan said the CBI is continuing its investigation into the matter.
"The CBI is getting to the root of what went wrong and where. I have complete faith in the CBI," Pradhan said.
"We have requested the agency to take strict action against those found guilty. Their criminal liability should be established, cases should be filed against them and they should face speedy trials in fast-track courts," he said.
"They should receive exemplary punishment," the minister added.
Pradhan also said that the NTA has been directed to examine legal remedies against the entities that breached contractual obligations.
"Some parties had agreements and commitments with us but breached them and violated our trust. We have directed the NTA to examine the legal aspects and assess whether civil liability cases can be filed against them. Legal advice is being sought on the matter," he said.
Referring to reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally monitoring the issue, Pradhan said the matter is receiving attention at the highest levels of government.
"When so many senior leaders of the government get involved, it is because the prime minister himself is concerned about the matter."
The prime minister wants to reassure the students through these administrative arrangements. The trust of students and parents is important to us."
The mistakes that occurred earlier will not be repeated. We will conduct the re-examination properly," Pradhan said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to France and Slovakia for bilateral talks and attend the G7 Summit in Evian, focusing on global challenges, innovation, and strengthening India–Europe ties.

PM Modi to undertake visit to France, Slovakia; to attend G7 Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to France and Slovakia for bilateral talks and attend the G7 Summit in Evian, focusing on global challenges, innovation, and strengthening India&ndash;Europe ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a week-long visit to France and Slovakia beginning June 13 to explore ways to expand bilateral ties and discuss pressing global challenges.
The prime minister will attend G7 Summit in Evian in France on June 16 and 17, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
In the first leg of his trip, Modi will visit French city of Nice from June 13 to 14.
He will also visit Evian and Paris from June 16 to 19, the MEA said.
The prime minister will be in Slovakia from June 14 to 16.
"In the first leg of the visit, the Prime Minister will visit Nice for a bilateral meeting with President Emmanuel Macron on June 14.
Both leaders will review the full spectrum of the India-France bilateral relationship, which was elevated to the level of a Special Global Strategic Partnership earlier this year," the MEA said.
In Nice, both leaders will also jointly inaugurate the 'Bharat Innovates' event, which will bring together top innovation startups and Venture Capital funds from India, France, and other countries.
In the second leg of the trip, Modi will travel to Slovakia for a State visit after concluding his trip to Nice.
This will be the first-ever visit by an Indian prime minister to Slovakia since its Independence in 1993.
The visit will reaffirm India's commitment towards strengthening its bilateral relationship with Slovakia in various sectors, including trade, investment, and automobile and railway manufacturing, the MEA said.
In the third leg of the visit, the prime minister will participate in the G7 Summit in Evian on June 16-17.
"During the Summit, he will exchange views with G7 leaders, and those from invited partner countries and International organisations, participating in the summit sessions on Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity; Reviving Balanced, Shared and Sustainable Economic Growth for all; and Ensuring a Safe, Rapid and Efficient Rollout of AI," the MEA said.
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi will also hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders.
In the final leg of the visit, the prime minister will visit Paris on June 18 for further bilateral engagements, and to attend the VivaTech Summit, Europe's largest technology and startup event.
"The Prime Minister's upcoming visit to Europe will further deepen India's partnership with France, Slovakia, and the G7," the MEA said.
It said Modi's presence at the G7 will reflect India's standing as a leading voice of the Global South and a key partner in addressing global challenges.
"The Prime Minister's participation in both Bharat Innovates and the Vivatech Summit will spotlight India as a global hub for innovation, digital transformation and entrepreneurship, and is expected to catalyse new partnerships between Indian, Drench and European technology ecosystems," the MEA said.
The visit will also reaffirm India's commitment towards advancing its broader strategic partnership with the European Union, it said.

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Militants on Saturday shot dead a policeman in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said.
J&K Police head constable Ali Mohammad was fired upon by militants at around 5.35 pm near his residence at Hasanpora in the Bijbehara area of Anantnag, a police official said.
He said Mohammad was shifted to a hospital in critical condition where he succumbed.
The area has been cordoned off and a hunt launched to nab the assailants, the official said. 

Policeman shot dead by militants in J&K's Anantnag

J&K Police head constable Ali Mohammad was shot dead by militants at around 5.35 pm near his residence in J&K's Anantnag district

Policeman shot dead by militants in Anantnag Head constable Ali Mohammad succumbed in the hospital
The cop was shot near his residence in Anantnag

J&amp;K Police head constable Ali Mohammad was fired upon by militants at around 5.35 pm near his residence

Militants on Saturday shot dead a policeman in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said.
J&amp;K Police head constable Ali Mohammad was fired upon by militants at around 5.35 pm near his residence at Hasanpora in the Bijbehara area of Anantnag, a police official said.
He said Mohammad was shifted to a hospital in critical condition where he succumbed.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/14-cops-injured-in-a-militant-attack-in-srinagar-j-k-police-1639401939152">2 cops killed, 12 injured in a militant attack in Srinagar: J&amp;K police</a>
The area has been cordoned off and a hunt launched to nab the assailants, the official said.&nbsp;

Editorji Technologies has launched Hook Global, a digital-first international news brand delivering concise, context-rich coverage of geopolitics, business, technology, world affairs, and global developments through original video journalism.

Editorji Launches Hook Global, Its International Digital News Brand

Editorji Technologies has launched Hook Global, a digital-first international news brand delivering concise, context-rich coverage of geopolitics, business, technology, world affairs, and global developments through original video journalism.

Editorji Technologies Private Limited has officially launched Hook Global, a digital-first international news brand focused on making geopolitics, world affairs, business, technology, and global developments more accessible for digital audiences.
Hook Global has been created to serve a global audience with concise, context-rich journalism across major digital platforms, including YouTube and Instagram. The platform combines live news coverage, explainers, interviews, and original reporting to help viewers better understand the stories shaping the world.
Built with a digital-first approach, Hook Global focuses on producing content designed for today's online audience while maintaining high editorial standards and factual reporting.
"Hook Global represents the next phase of our global digital news strategy. As audiences increasingly consume news on digital platforms, our goal is to build a trusted international news brand that delivers reliable journalism in formats people prefer," a spokesperson for Editorji Technologies Private Limited said. Since its launch, Hook Global has attracted millions of viewers worldwide and continues to expand its international presence through original video journalism and live news programming.
Hook Global operates as an editorial brand under Editorji Technologies Private Limited and is managed by the company's editorial and digital publishing teams. Official Platforms
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Editorji Technologies Private Limited is a digital media company focused on building innovative news and information products for digital audiences. Through its portfolio of brands, the company delivers news, analysis, and original content across multiple platforms, serving audiences in India and around the world. Editor's Note: Hook Global is an editorial brand owned and operated by Editorji Technologies Private Limited. All official social media accounts, including @hookglobal, are managed by Editorji Technologies Private Limited.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the successful completion of 'Operation Tiger' after six Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha MPs joined the ruling Shiv Sena, strengthening his position within the Mahayuti alliance.

'Operation Tiger is complete,' roars Shinde as 6 Uddhav MPs join his Sena; calls them Dhurandhar

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the successful completion of 'Operation Tiger' after six Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha MPs joined the ruling Shiv Sena, strengthening his position within the Mahayuti alliance.

"Operation Tiger is complete now," announced Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday, as all six rebel Lok Sabha members from the Shiv Sena (UBT) officially crossed over to the ruling Shiv Sena, formalising another split in the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction.
The rebels joined the Shiv Sena at an event in the presence of Shinde and other senior party leaders, five days after skipping a crucial parliamentary party meeting of the Shiv Sena (UBT) in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by only three Lok Sabha MPs of the Opposition party.
The Lok Sabha MPs of the Shiv Sena (UBT) who crossed over are: Sanjay Deshmukh (Yavatmal), Sanjay Jadhav (Parbhani), Sanjay Dina Patil (Mumbai North East), Nagesh Patil-Ashtikar (Hingoli), Omprakash Rajenimbalkar (Dharashiv) and Bhausaheb Wakchaure (Shirdi).
"My operations are fool proof," said Shinde while referring to the six defected MPs as Dhurandhar (stalwarts/experts) who are connected to ground.
"Operation Tiger" is now complete and successful," the Deputy CM declared while talking to reporters and added the Shiv Sena is now the second largest party in Maharashtra in terms of MPs.
Notably, Operation Tiger was the name given to the Shiv Sena's move to engineer defections in the Thackeray camp and wean over MPs to its side.
These rebel parliamentarians had won against BJP and Shiv Sena candidates in the 2024 general elections. The Shiv Sena (UBT) had bagged nine Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra in 2024.
The entry of the dissident MPs in the Shiv Sena is expected to give a boost to bargaining power of Shinde in the ruling coalition Mahayuti, which also consists of the BJP and the NCP.
Shinde said, "These Lok Sabha members have now joined the original Shiv Sena that follows the teachings of (party founder) late Balasaheb Thackeray. Four years back I took a strong step and now I have hit a sixer (a reference to the number of MPs who have switched loyalties)."
He also referred to his rebellion in June 2022 in the united Shiv Sena which brought down the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government and catapulted him to the post of chief minister.
"I did it earlier (split Shiv Sena) to save the principles of late Balasaheb Thackeray and to save the Shiv Sena. Now, this move (rebellion in the Lok Sabha wing of the Sena UBT) is the second stage of Shiv Sena expansion," Shinde asserted.
All of them will contest on the Shiv Sena symbol in the 2029 Lok Sabha polls from their respective constituencies and will get elected for sure, he said while responding to a question.
"Maharashtra is a progressive state. New people are joining our party because our agenda is of development and progress. You know that I am a man who keeps his word. People are trusting me and the Sena, which is a party of workers and common person," he insisted.
Without taking names of Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders, Shinde advised them to introspect instead of resorting to abuses, an oblique reference to Thackeray aide and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut, who launched an expletive-laden tirade against the rebels last week.
"It is time for introspection for those whose party these MPs have left. They start abusing in the morning, and change the tone in the evening and try to appease them. There seems to be some problem with them," Shinde said.
The Deputy Chief Minister noted the rebel MPs consulted their supporters before switching sides and assured his full support to them.
"All these MPs have spoken to their supporters and then decided to join the Shiv Sena. I am there to solve even your personal problems," Shinde maintained.
"Those who have been abusing us since 2022, let them do their work. They will increase their troubles," he said, taking potshots at his rivals in the Shiv Sena (UBT).
Shinde assured there will be no shortage of funds for development of the Lok Sabha constituencies represented by the rebel MPs.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti urged Kashmiri Pandits to move beyond past grievances and strengthen ties with Kashmiris during the Kheer Bhawani mela. She also called for better facilities and support for displaced Pandit families.

Kashmiri Pandits should move on, stop being prisoners of past: Mehbooba

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti urged Kashmiri Pandits to move beyond past grievances and strengthen ties with Kashmiris during the Kheer Bhawani mela. She also called for better facilities and support for displaced Pandit families.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Monday urged Kashmiri Pandits to "stop being prisoners of the past" and rather invest in a shared future with the Muslim community in the valley.
The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister made the remarks during her visit to the Kheer Bhawani temple in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, where she interacted with Pandits celebrating the annual Kheer Bhawani mela.
Taking note of the large turnout, Mehbooba emphasised that the people of Kashmir welcome them wholeheartedly.
"We want our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters to forget what happened in the past and look forward to the future," the People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief told reporters.
Earlier, while Mehbooba was entering the temple, located 30 km from Srinagar, some people shouted slogans, such as "jis Kashmir ko khoon se seecha, woh Kashmir humara hai (the Kashmir that we have nurtured with our blood, that Kashmir belongs to us)".
PDP workers were seen trying to maintain a distance between Mehbooba and the angry protesters.
Taking to X, Mehbooba described the atmosphere at the mela as "heartwarming beyond words", stating that the warmth between the two communities transcended the walls of mistrust built by divisive political agendas.
She highlighted the deeply-rooted, ongoing connections between the two communities, noting that countless Kashmiri Muslims travelling outside the valley for medical treatment are regularly cared for by Kashmiri Pandit doctors.
She specifically lauded prominent doctors who continue to practise medicine in the region.
"Equally inspiring are doctors like Sushil Razdan, U Koul and Sameer Koul, who continue to serve patients in Kashmir, especially those unable to travel for treatment. Their work is not just healing bodies, it is helping heal old wounds and rebuild bonds between communities," she said.
The PDP chief urged younger Pandit doctors to draw inspiration from these figures, reconnect with their roots and visit Kashmir.
She urged the government to provide all facilities to Kashmiri Pandits.
"The government here should provide facilities to the Kashmiri Pandits who have come here or are living here. They are living in one-bedroom flats.... Similarly, Kashmiri Pandits are facing problems in Jagti (in Jammu). There is an issue in the NFSA (National Food Security Act). You cannot treat Kashmiri Pandits at par with other people when it comes to the NFSA. You have to provide all facilities to them which the migrants should get," she said.
Mehbooba appealed to people to maintain brotherhood.
"We should not look into the past, but look forward. Also, those who want to use Kashmiri Pandits as a weapon, Kashmiri Pandits should isolate them and they (Pandits) should have direct connections with Kashmiris," she asserted.
The PDP chief criticised the current living conditions of the community in various camps in Jammu and urged the government to significantly upgrade facilities for both returning and residing Pandits.

At least 15 people, including students attending classes at an animation centre, were killed after a massive fire tore through a 3-storey commercial building in Lucknow's Aliganj area. Several others were injured as rescue teams battled the blaze.

At least 15 dead as fire rips through Lucknow building, students among victims

At least 15 people, including students attending classes at an animation centre, were killed after a massive fire tore through a 3-storey commercial building in Lucknow's Aliganj area. Several others were injured as rescue teams battled the blaze.

A major fire blazed through a three-storey commercial building in a posh Lucknow neighbourhood on a busy Monday afternoon, leaving at least 15 people, including students, dead and seven injured, officials said.
Most of the victims were trapped on the second floor of the building, located on Usha Mehta Marg in Aliganj in north Lucknow, where students were attending classes at an animation centre. The source of the fire is yet to be ascertained.
Eyewitnesses said several people jumped out of the building, which was completely gutted in the fire. The structure also housed a pet clinic. Fourteen fire tenders, including a hydraulic platform vehicle, were deployed to control the blaze reported at around 3 pm.
"A total of 22 people were brought to the Trauma Centre of King George's Medical University (KGMU) following the incident. Of them, 15 were declared brought dead, while five injured persons were admitted for treatment and their condition was stable," King George Medical University (KGMU) PRO Prof K K Singh told PTI.
Two others suffered minor injuries and were provided medical care, he said, adding that doctors and medical staff were continuously monitoring the injured.
"Due to two children jumping, they suffered back injuries, so they are also being treated after CT scans and other procedures," said Dr Anil Agrawal, Medical Superintendent at the trauma centre.
PTI witnessed people being taken out during the rescue operation, with some bodies being carried in body bags and others wrapped in blankets. The victims were brought out from the terrace of an adjoining building, where rescue teams had drilled two large openings into the affected building to gain access while the fire was still raging.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath cut short his visit to Aligarh and reached the site to review the situation.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, who had reached the spot as the rescue operation was underway, said that the children had come during summer holidays to learn animation at the centre.
"The fire broke out suddenly. It was an animation centre. While there is no immediate clarity about the sequence of events, it seems that the children ran towards the back side when the fire broke out&hellip; but they couldn&rsquo;t survive. While there is no clarity about the exact figure, but I saw 11-12 bodies with my own eyes," Pathak told reporters earlier.
Later, with tears welling his eyes, the Deputy chief minister said he had seen 14 bodies at the spot. "They were our children. It is a very tragic incident," he said.
Pathak said a high-level inquiry had been ordered into the incident to ascertain the cause of the fire and determine how it occurred. "Strict action will be taken so that such incidents do not happen in future," he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi expressed anguish at the the loss of live. PM Modi announced an an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000.
The Deputy CM said the fire had been brought under control but the building was still filled with smoke. Firefighters and National Disaster Response Force personnel were conducting a room-to-room search inside the premises.
Senior officials, including Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad, Director General of Police Rajeev Krishna and Lucknow Police Commissioner Amrendra Sengar, also reached the spot to monitor the rescue operation. NDRF, SDRF and civil defence teams were part of the rescue operation.
Addressing his programme in Aligarh, Chief Minister Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the incident and said said he has directed the Director General of Police and the Additional Chief Secretary (Home) to reach the spot and submit a report.
"I myself am also leaving for there so that we can go into the details of the entire matter, punish those responsible and also express our condolences to the affected families," he said earlier.
This fire incident in Lucknow comes within weeks of a massive blaze in a south Delhi restaurant that killed over 20 people.
The building is located in the premium residential Aliganj neighbourhood dotted by commercial spaces including coaching centres, cafes, and walking distance to the Purania market.
Kiran Shukla, an animal rights activist, feared that animals in the pet clinic might have been caught in the blaze. At least three bodies of animals wrapped in a blanket were taken out of the building at around 4.40 pm, PTI witnessed.
A police official said the local police reached the spot immediately after receiving information and teams from nearby fire stations were rushed with water tenders and firefighting equipment. Later other agencies also joined the rescue operation.
Visuals from the scene showed firefighting teams wearing safety gear climbing the building using ladders from outside. Another team was seen attempting to enter from the adjoining building of similar height by creating an access point from the upper side, while other teams continued efforts to douse the flames.
A local told PTI Videos during the rescue operation, "When I arrived at the spot, I saw smoke billowing from the building. Some students had already been rescued, and 4-5 students managed to come out of the building."
"Our only hope is that everyone comes out safely. The firefighters took some time to reach the spot," he said.
Another local said, "The fire may have been triggered by a spark. Seven to eight students jumped from the building to save themselves."
Distraught men and women, apparently guardians and relatives of the victims, were seen standing near the site and urging authorities to allow them to enter the building when the firefighting and rescue operations were underway.

The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre, states and Union Territories on a petition challenging the use of Aadhaar as proof of citizenship, domicile, address and date of birth.

SC seeks responses of Centre, States on plea for use of Aadhaar as identity proof only

The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre, states and Union Territories on a petition challenging the use of Aadhaar as proof of citizenship, domicile, address and date of birth.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought response of the Centre and States on a plea alleging misuse of the Unique Identification Authority of India-issued Aadhaar cards as proof of citizenship, domicile and residential address, and seeking directions to restrict its use strictly for identity verification.
A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice V Mohana issued notices to the Centre and all the states and UTs on a plea filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay and tagged it with the pending similar matters.
The plea has sought directions to the Centre, states and the Election Commission to ensure that Aadhaar is used as a proof of identity and not as a proof of citizenship, domicile, address and date of birth.
The plea, filed through advocate Ashwani Dubey, also sought directions that the use of Aadhaar as a proof of date of birth and residence in the application form for new voter registration be considered against Section 9 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, Section 23(4) of the RPA, 1950 and Article 14 of the Constitution.
"Section 9 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016 expressly states that 'Aadhaar is not the evidence of citizenship or domicile'. The Unique Identification Authority of India notification dated August 22, 2023 clearly states that 'Aadhaar is proof of identity, not of citizenship, address or date of birth'...
"Despite this, Aadhaar is not only being used as a proof of age, citizenship and domicile for school admission, property purchase and to obtain a birth certificate, ration card, driving licence but also being used in the application form for new voter registration (Form-6) as a proof of date of birth and proof of residence. And thus, infiltrators and illegal immigrants are obtaining various documents using Aadhaar," the plea said.
The petition contended that the existing verification mechanism under Form-6 is inadequate and might allow individuals without proper supporting documents to be included in the electoral database.
The plea sought a comprehensive overhaul of the verification framework used in electoral processes and proposed the establishment of a high-powered monitoring committee comprising a retired Supreme Court judge along with cybersecurity and forensic experts to oversee reforms.

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