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Private hospitals and nursing homes treat patients like ATMs: Allahabad HC dismisses the plea of a doctor seeking quashing of medical negligence case against him

OpIndia Staff
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Private hospitals and nursing homes treat patients like ATMs: Allahabad HC dismisses the plea of a doctor seeking quashing of medical negligence case against him

The Allahabad High Court has come down heavily on doctors and private nursing homes, for admitting patients without appropriate facilities and infrastructure and charging them huge amounts of money.

Dismissing an application filed by a doctor, the High Court noted in the judgment dated July 24, 2025, “It is common practice these days that private nursing homes/hospitals tend to entice the patients for treatment even though they do not have the doctors or infrastructure. When the patient is admitted to a private hospital, they start calling for the doctor to treat the patient. It is common knowledge that the private hospitals/nursing homes have started treating the patients as guinea pigs/ATM machines only to extort money out of them.”

The applicant, named Dr Ashok Kumar Rai, approached the High Court for the quashing of an FIR filed against him on July 29, 2007, which says that the foetus of a pregnant woman, who was admitted to his nursing home, died due to his medical negligence. A bench of Justice Prashant Kumar dismissed his application, saying that a prima facie offence was made out against him and allowed criminal proceedings to continue against the doctor.

“In this matter, though consent was taken around 12 O’Clock, but the operation was conducted at 5.30 P.M. Delay in conducting the surgery was because of non-availability of the anesthetist, which resulted in the death of the child,” the judge said.

Facts of the case

On July 28, 2007, a woman in the advanced stage of pregnancy was admitted to Savitri Nursing Home, Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, around 10.30 a.m. for delivery. After examining the patient, Dr Rai advised a C-section. Around 12 o’clock, the family of the patient gave consent for the surgery. However, the surgery was delayed by several hours due to the absence of an anaesthetist, who arrived around 3:30 pm. The surgery was finally carried out around 5:30 pm, but the delay resulted in the death of the child. The post-mortem report of the child described “prolonged labour” as the cause of death.

An FIR was filed by the family of the patient against the doctor under Sections 304A, 315, 323 and 506 of the IPC. A case regarding the same has been going on in the court of the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, Deoria. The present application was filed by the applicant seeking the quashing of the entire proceedings against him.

“A bare perusal of the post mortem report of the foetus, which has been annexed along with the supplementary counter affidavit, shows that the cause of death was “Prolonged Labour”. A bare perusal of the post mortem report of the foetus, which has been annexed along with the supplementary counter affidavit, shows that the cause of death was ‘Prolonged Labour’,” the High Court noted.

Findings of the Medical Board not credible: HC

After the registration of the FIR, the police wrote to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to seek his opinion. The CMO invited the applicant to submit his version of the incident and constituted a Medical Board to look into the issue. The Medical Board declared the doctor not guilty. The applicant placed reliance on the decision of the Medical Board to defend himself. However, the High Court said that the findings of the Medical Board were not credible as neither the post-mortem report nor the Operation Theatre note (OT note) was placed before it for examination.

“All the documents were not produced before the Medical Board, and hence, the opinion of the Medical Board would have no credence in this matter. This is a case where prima facie offence is made out against the applicant and there is no justification to invoke inherent powers for any interference in the impugned proceedings,” the High Court noted in its judgment.

On a cautionary note, the High Court called for striking a balance between the rights of medical practitioners who are unfairly blamed for an untoward incident and their obligation towards patients to perform their duty skillfully.

Over a lakh civilians displaced, F-16 jets deployed, missiles used, Buddhist monastries targeted: Tensions spike on Thailand-Cambodia border

OpIndia Staff
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Over a lakh civilians displaced, F-16 jets deployed, missiles used, Buddhist monastries targeted: Tensions spike on Thailand-Cambodia border

The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified rapidly, leading to a devastating toll on both human lives and cultural heritage. On the first day of conflict, 14 Thai citizens died, with the overall death toll rising to 60. Additionally, over 125,000 civilians have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict, according to official Thai government sources.

Thailand has launched multiple airstrikes using F-16 fighter jets targeting Cambodian military bases. Reports have confirmed that the attack has destroyed several Cambodian installations. Cambodian officials stated that bombs were dropped near the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Preah Vihear Temple, a site already involved in historic tension between the two nations.

While clashes continued until Friday morning, July 25, both sides appeared to be engaged in heavy fire. According to the Thai military, Cambodian forces used field artillery and BM-21 rocket systems during bombardments. In response, Thai forces retaliated with “strategic fire” as per their official statement.

Religious and cultural sites under attack

In a major attack, a Thai airstrike reportedly hit a pagoda in Cambodia’s Siem Reap province, forcing Buddhist monks to flee. Khmer Times reported that the Prasat Ta Moan Senchey Pagoda was destroyed after three bombs were dropped on the site by Thai fighter jets on July 24, Thursday. The incident has sparked fear among border communities, prompting mass evacuations.

Monks and villagers, who seemed in traditional attire, fled the area overnight carrying only essential belongings. Eyewitnesses have described the scenes of chaos as terrified and exhausted, where civilians arrived in Siem Reap early Thursday morning.

UNESCO Sites in Peril

The conflict has brought centuries-old religious and cultural sites to extreme danger. The reports show the shelling and aerial attacks have put both the Ta Muen Thom and Preah Vihear temples at great risk. These temples hold deep cultural and religious significance for both countries. The international community has also raised serious concerns, calling for an immediate ceasefire to protect the region’s irreplaceable heritage.

Thailand defends sovereignty and urges dialogue

Thailand’s Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai accused Cambodia of launching missile attacks and using heavy weaponry during border clashes. During a National Security Council meeting, Phumtham stated, “While we remain committed to peaceful dialogue, we must defend ourselves and protect our national sovereignty.”

Authorities have begun evacuating civilians from affected regions. The Thai Ministry of Education has ordered the closure of schools near the border, and the Public Health Ministry has converted district hospitals into field medical units to handle casualties.

On the other hand, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet condemned Thailand’s actions, urging to dismissal of military moves that could worsen the situation. He called on Thai forces to withdraw and refrain from provocative actions, accusing them of violating international law.

Cambodia’s army claimed that Thai forces struck eight locations in the provinces of Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear. Cambodian army spokesperson Lt. Gen. Socheat said that Cambodian forces have regained full control over key areas, including Ta Krabey and Mom Bei, and continue to hold strong positions around the Tamon Thom temple.

As tensions escalate, both countries face mounting pressure from the global community to de-escalate and return to dialogue before more lives and historical treasures are lost.

As of now, Thailand has evacuated more than 100,000 people along the Cambodian border after both nations entered into bloody military clashes for the second day. The interior ministry confirmed that 100,672 people from four border provinces had been moved to shelters, while the health ministry announced the death toll had risen to 15, of which 14 were civilians.


2011 Soumya rape and murder case: Convict Govindachamy alias Charley Thomas breaks out of Kerala’s high-security Kannur central jail

OpIndia Staff
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2011 Soumya rape and murder case: Convict Govindachamy alias Charley Thomas breaks out of Kerala’s high-security Kannur central jail

A convict has fled from Kannur central jail on 25th July, triggering a massive manhunt. Police discovered that Govindachamy alias Charley Thomas was missing from his cell at 7:15 am, in a startling breach in prison security. The Tamil Nadu native was behind bars in the rape and murder case of 23-year-old Soumya, in 2011.

According to reports, the instance happened at around 1:15 am. His disappearance was only discovered by jail officials later in the morning when they conducted routine checks. He had been incarcerated at the high-security facility in the fourth cell of the 10th Block.

His recent image has been made public. The authorities also released a phone number and urged people to contact if they spot him. Charley Thomas was in his jail uniform when he escaped. Another inmate, who is also from Tamil Nadu stated that he was asleep and did not observe anything out of the ordinary. An internal investigation has commenced to find out how he managed to abscond.

The fugitive only has one arm, but was able to get out of the one of the most secure prisons in the state. He reportedly made a rope out of his knotted garments and used it to scale the prison wall.

Efforts to catch the prisoner amid backlash

The incident is shrouded in mystery because the jail staff has no idea how he gathered the clothes and executed his escape plan without assistance. Now, a Special Investigation Team has been established. Police in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have reportedly been notified to find the offender.

The senior officials stated that further surveillance has been implemented at border areas and transportation hubs and that all checkpoints have been informed. They are also looking into potential weaknesses in the jail’s security system. CCTV footage of the areas surrounding the jail is being analysed and inspections of train and bus terminals are underway. Police officers were seen checking trains in Kannur.

The jail authorities have drawn criticism after the development. Officials are accused of conducting the search six hours after he broke out of the facility by climbing over the massive electric fence wall. K Surendran, the state head of the Bharatiya Janata Party suspected that someone purposefully turned off the wall’s electricity to help him.

The victim’s mother voiced that the police aided him, in an interview with Manorama News. She insisted that he should be apprehended and punished straight away and further conveyed that the court should have imposed death penalty on him.

Background of the case

On 1st February 2011 Soumya was alone in the ladies’ compartment of the passenger train from Ernakulam to Soranur. She was thrown out of the moving train near Vallathol Nagar station by Charley Thomas, who already had a criminal record. He had entered the coach illegally, tried to rob her and also abused her.

He then pursued her, pulled her into a wooded location, sexually assaulted her and ran away. The victim suffered internal trauma and significant head injuries due to which she passed away on 6th February, as she was undergoing treatement at Thrissur Medical College Hospital. The perpetrator is from Virudhachalam and had already been charged with multiple muggings and thefts in the Salem area before his arrest in this case.

A Thrissur fast-track court first sentenced him to death in 2012 and the Kerala High Court affirmed that decision in 2014. The Supreme Court, however, dismissed the murder charges in 2016 due to prosecution’s inability to provide sufficient proof concerning intent to kill. It reduced the murder charge to seven years but maintained his life sentence for rape.

From ‘India Out’ to ‘Modi In’: The changing dynamics of India-Maldives relations

Divyansh Tiwari
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From ‘India Out’ to ‘Modi In’: The changing dynamics of India-Maldives relations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the Maldives Independence Day conference on Saturday (26 July, 2025) as the chief guest. This comes as quite a surprise to those commentators who had genuinely believed that the ‘India Out’ movement had completely driven India out of the Maldives.

Earlier today, PM Modi landed in Male to a rousing welcome by President Muizzu and his cabinet colleagues.

It is also noteworthy that PM Modi is the first head of state to visit the Maldives after Mohamed Muizzu became the President. Let us understand why the leader who came to power by running the ‘India Out’ campaign is now rolling out the red carpet for Modi.

Over the past two years, there has been a notable change in the relationship between India and the Maldives. The “India Out” movement, which aimed to protest New Delhi’s presence in the archipelago, formerly took the stage, but under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the focus has since changed to renewed cooperation and increased trust. In addition to stabilising the Maldivian economy, India’s financial assistance. Specifically, the $400 million currency swap from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the $100 million treasury bond subscription from State Bank of India (SBI) has restored India’s standing as the Maldives’ most dependable partner.

This article looks at how India navigated the tumultuous waters of anti-India rhetoric, economic obstacles, and growing Chinese influence to reclaim its position as the Maldives’ key strategic ally.

India & Maldives: A historic partnership

A long-standing alliance based on trade, cultural proximity, and strategic security in the Indian Ocean exists between India and the Maldives. The Maldives is a crucial ally in India’s maritime security strategy because of its strategic location close to important shipping lanes. India was one of the first countries to recognise and establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives following its independence in 1965.

India’s timely aid during the 1988 coup (Operation Cactus) resulted in trust and positive bilateral relations with the Maldives. Withdrawing our forces when no longer needed alleviated concerns about Indian supremacy and territorial claims. India was the first to aid Maldives following the 2004 Tsunami and the water crisis in December 2014. Three crises (In 1988, 2004, and 2014) demonstrated India’s proximity and ability to respond to the Maldives’ crisis, which has been acknowledged by the Maldivian government and people. In January 2020, India sent 30,000 doses of measles vaccine to avert an epidemic in the Maldives. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, India provided prompt and thorough aid to the Maldives, demonstrating its status as a “first responder”.

Development assistance, such as housing projects, infrastructure construction, and scholarships for Maldivian students, has also helped to strengthen bilateral ties.

The ‘India Out’ campaign

The “India Out” movement, led by sections of the opposition, characterised India as an intrusive presence in Maldivian internal and security issues. The campaign claimed that Indian military forces stationed in the Maldives posed a threat to sovereignty, despite the fact that they were mostly involved in humanitarian and disaster relief efforts.

During Jaishankar’s visit in February 2021, India and the Maldives agreed to build the Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF) harbour. At the time, the Union Minister tweeted that the project would “strengthen Maldivian Coast Guard capability” and that the two countries were “partners in development and partners in security.” During the same visit, India provided a $50 million line of credit for defence purchases. Anti-India campaigners in the Maldives also claimed that Indian troops were stationed on a fast patrol vessel that India recently gifted to the Maldives Coast Guard and was commissioned as CGS Huravee earlier that week, a claim refuted by Mariya Didi (Former Defense Minister), who had stated that the Indian crew was only on the ship in Male for training purposes and that it would be manned entirely by Maldivians from now on.

Since Muizzu took power in November 2023, the Maldives took a more pro-China stance while distancing itself from India, its historic ally. During his presidential campaign, Muizzu advocated for a “India Out” campaign to reduce New Delhi’s influence and presence in the country.

There were diplomatic repercussions between New Delhi and the Maldives following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Lakshadweep islands in January 2024. This exacerbated an already tense relationship that has gotten worse since Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November 2023. When three deputy ministers from Muizzu’s administration entered the social media discussion and made derogatory comments about Modi, the situation deteriorated. India was not appeased when its Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying the remarks reflect “opinions [that] are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives” and suspended three deputy ministers who made the comments. A social media response spearheaded by celebrities and internet users calling for a travel boycott of the Maldives followed India’s Ministry of External Affairs’ summons of the Maldivian ambassador to voice its concerns.

From defiance to dependence: Maldives welcomes PM Modi

The Maldives’ growing economic problems may be the main cause of Muizzu’s conciliatory discourse towards India. India has always been “one of the closest” allies and “invaluable” partners, enabling and delivering aid “whenever Maldives has needed it,” according to President Mohamed Muizzu’s Aug 2024 acknowledgement. He made these remarks during a ceremony at the President’s Office to hand over completed water supply and sewerage facilities on 28 Maldives islands, which were funded by the Government of India’s Line of Credit Facility via EXIM Bank of India.

In order to handle debt and import requirements, the Maldives’ dangerously low foreign reserves were strengthened in October 2024 by a historic currency swap arrangement with the Reserve Bank of India that gave them access to USD 400 million and INR 30 billion under the SAARC framework (2024–2027). Following a USD 50 million Treasury Bill rollover in May 2025 at the request of the Government of the Maldives, India pledged USD 69 million in grant assistance in March 2025.

Two high-profile trips in early 2025 appear to bode well for bilateral relations between India and the Maldives. Given that bilateral ties were at their lowest point last year, the visits by Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel and Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon were especially crucial. Minister Khaleel, in an interview, separated the incumbent government leadership from former President Abdulla Yameen’s “India Out” campaign, which the current administration participated in as the Opposition. “As such, the government will completely disassociate with isolated comments from such figures, whether they represent the government or the Opposition,” the minister stated.

President Muizzu aimed to strengthen the Maldives’ relationship with India, according to Foreign Minister Khaleel. He had said, “In this regard, our President has repeatedly stated that he is strengthening his relationship with India and the Indian people.”

As the son of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the archipelago nation’s longest-serving President (1978–2008), Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon’s subsequent visit (Jan 8-10) was equally significant, as he acknowledged that India is the first responder during times of crisis faced by his country over the past decades. In order to put down a 1988 coup attempt against the government, New Delhi sent in military personnel post-haste during Maumoon Gayoom’s rule.

Similarly, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated during the defence talks that their discussions gave India-Maldives relations “new vigour.” India also reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering the Maldives’ defence capabilities, which includes supplying defence gear and training troops. Additionally, India announced a US$4 million grant to outfit the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) with certain items.

Notwithstanding early tensions, the Muizzu government understood the strategic and economic importance of keeping close relations with India. High-level bilateral discussions and Prime Minister Modi’s outreach initiatives, which prioritised commerce, security, and mutual growth, marked a turning point.

Looking ahead: A resilient partnership

Malé’s practical approach aligned with India’s emphasis on “Neighbourhood First” and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies. Symbolic actions like skill development, scholarships, and partnerships on digital payments (UPI and RuPay) have further enhanced India’s image as an ally in the Maldives’ long-term development narrative.

The transition from “India Out” to “Modi In” shows how resilient India-Maldives ties are. India has maintained its position as the Maldives’ most reliable partner through cultural engagement, strategic patience, and financial diplomacy. Although managing Malé’s domestic politics and balancing China’s influence still present difficulties, the renewed partnership points to a promising future.

This partnership is not only about strategic interests but also about shared prosperity and security in the Indian Ocean area because of India’s dedication to being a first responder and long-term development partner.

Indian Air Force plans to acquire 40 to 60 fifth-generation fighter jets from foreign sources to strengthen its combat capabilities until indigenous AMCA is ready

ANI
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Indian Air Force plans to acquire 40 to 60 fifth-generation fighter jets from foreign sources to strengthen its combat capabilities until indigenous AMCA is ready

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is looking to acquire two to three squadrons of fifth-generation fighter jets from foreign sources to strengthen its combat capabilities until the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project becomes operational.

A fighter squadron typically consists of 18 to 20 jets.

The IAF recently made a detailed presentation to the government outlining its future requirements for maintaining an edge over adversaries, defence sources told ANI.

They said the IAF is looking to acquire around two to three squadrons (40-60 aircraft) in the interim till the indigenous project gets ready for meeting its operational requirements.

An empowered committee led by Defence Secretary RK Singh recommended the induction of fifth-generation fighter jets to enhance the force’s deterrence and preparedness, especially along the northern and western borders.

The Indian side is showing interest in acquiring the fifth-generation fighter aircraft, when reports suggest that China is already working on sixth-generation fighter jets and may also provide its fifth-generation fighters to the Pakistan Air Force in the next few years.

The two countries from which India could potentially procure fifth-generation aircraft were the United States and Russia.

However, the government has not taken any decision on the issue of fifth-generation fighter jets, but discussions are going on in this regard.

The US has offered the F-35 fighter jet, while Russia has proposed its Su-57 jets for India’s consideration.

India had opted out of the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGfA) project many years ago, but there is an option to rejoin it.

The F-35 has been sold to various countries by the US in Europe and outside.

India is also looking at a programme to build 114 modern 4.5 plus generation fighters in partnership with a foreign country under Make in India, and may go for a government-to-government deal after a tender.

The Indian Air Force is looking to use these planes to prepare a strong deterrence all along the western and northern fronts.

(This news report is published from a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has not been written or edited by OpIndia staff)

2020 Bengaluru riots case: Ikramuddin, Atif and Mohammed plead guilty, sentenced to 7 years in jail by NIA court

OpIndia Staff
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2020 Bengaluru riots case: Ikramuddin, Atif and Mohammed plead guilty, sentenced to 7 years in jail by NIA court

Three people have been sentenced to seven years of hard imprisonment by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court in Bengaluru. The case pertained to the August 2020 violent mob attack on the DJ Halli and KG Halli police stations. They are identified as Syed Ikramuddin (alias Syed Naveed), Syed Atif and Mohammed Atif. Furthermore, each convict was slapped with ₹36,000 fine.

Sections 15, 16, 18 and 20 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, sections 143, 147, 148, 353, 333, 332, 436, 427 and 149 of the Indian Penal Code alongside section 4 of the Karnataka Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act was invoked against them.

“The substantial sentences imposed on accused number 14, 16, and 18 shall run concurrently. The period spent in judicial custody shall be set off under Section 428 of the CrPC. The entire fine recovered shall be applied towards defraying the expenses incurred in the prosecution,” the court stated.

According to the chargesheet, they were the fourteenth, sixteenth and eighteenth accused. 187 of the 199 people named in the case were taken into custody. One died while four others later turned themselves in. 138 people have thus far been the subject of a formal chargesheet filed by the prosecution.

On 11th August 2020 over 300 people assembled in front of the DJ Halli Police Station to protest an allegedly disparaging Facebook post made by P. Naveen about Prophet Muhammad, according to the police. He is the nephew of Congress leader and Pulakeshinagar MLA Akhanda Srinivas Murthy.

A man named Firdous Pasha filed a complaint claiming offences under Sections 295-A and 153 of the Indian Penal Code, which led to the filing of a formal complaint. The throng, however, refused to disperse and only grew in size in spite of the FIR and the police’s best attempts to pacify them. Afterward, they gathered outside the home of Akhanda Srinivasa Murthy and severely damaged it.

Syed Ikramuddin, one of the now-convicted people, spearheaded the demonstration. Police enforced Section 144 of the CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure) to keep the peace as tensions increased. However, the blood-thirsty crowd caused extensive property damage throughout the area and three fatalities transpired duirng police action. The violence injured more than 80 police officers.

13 vehicles were also vandalized, including one Innova, five two-wheelers and seven other automobiles. As the radicals caused chaos, their liberal and leftist apologists attempted to cover up their crimes by claiming that human chains were created to protect the tempels, a lie that was subsequently exposed.

The local police then handed over the investigation to the NIA. Critical connections between the accused and the now-banned Popular Front of India (PFI) and its political offshoot, the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) were uncovered by NIA investigations.

According to the agency, PFI members planned the attack with the intention of escalating communal tensions and upending governmental institutions. There are currently 64 criminal cases lodged and investigations are underway.

Adani Enterprises and MetTube forge strategic alliance to boost India’s copper tube manufacturing

OpIndia Staff
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Adani Enterprises and MetTube forge strategic alliance to boost India’s copper tube manufacturing

In a landmark move that underscores India’s push for self-reliance in key industrial sectors, Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) has announced a strategic partnership with MetTube, a subsidiary of the Metdist Group, to jointly manufacture high-performance copper tubes for critical sectors like HVAC, renewable energy, and smart infrastructure.

As part of the agreement signed on July 24, 2025, Adani Enterprises will divest 50% of its stake in Kutch Copper Tubes Limited (KCTL) to MetTube. Simultaneously, AEL will acquire a 50% stake in MetTube Copper India Pvt. Ltd., MetTube’s wholly owned Indian subsidiary that runs a cutting-edge facility near Ahmedabad. This dual investment model establishes an equal ownership and governance structure between the two companies, fostering a truly collaborative ecosystem.

The partnership is aimed at significantly reducing India’s dependency on imported copper tubes, crucial components used in air conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing, and energy applications. As urbanisation, climate-responsive infrastructure, and green energy projects drive demand, this alliance is poised to deliver scale, speed, and sustainability.

Jeet Adani, Whole Time Director, Adani Group, emphasized the strategic nature of the partnership:

“By combining Adani’s operational excellence with MetTube’s deep copper expertise, we are not just building a business—we are building capability for India.”

Apurv Bagri, Chairman of Metdist Group, echoed the sentiment:

“With this alliance, we bring world-class copper tube technology to India, fully aligned with the ‘Make in India’ mission and growing demand for climate-friendly infrastructure.”

Adani’s copper ecosystem already includes a 0.5 MTPA copper refinery at Mundra and a greenfield copper tube facility under KCTL. MetTube adds to this its 50+ years of legacy in global copper manufacturing, technical prowess, and a strong customer base across HVAC and refrigeration sectors.

The newly formed partnership is expected to fuel innovation in copper tube design—especially inner grooved tubes that enhance energy efficiency in cooling systems, supporting India’s broader goals of energy conservation and industrial self-reliance.

By leveraging mutual strengths and focusing on sustainability and quality, the Adani-MetTube alliance signals a bold new chapter for India’s copper manufacturing industry, positioning the country as not just a consumer, but a global supplier of high-performance copper tubes.

ED raids 35 premises linked to Anil Ambani’s RAAGA firms: Here’s what the probe agency found in its investigation

Shraddha Pandey
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ED raids 35 premises linked to Anil Ambani’s RAAGA firms: Here’s what the probe agency found in its investigation

On 24th July 2025, the Enforcement Directorate launched a massive search operation at 35 premises, 50 companies and over 25 persons allegedly linked to money laundering case against Reliance Anil Ambani Group (RAAGA) Companies.

The move followed an investigation launched by the ED under the offence of alleged money laundering by RAAGA companies subsequent to recording of an FIR by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

As per the officials, other agencies and institutions have also shared information with ED, such as, the National Housing Bank, SEBI, National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) and Bank of Baroda.

“Preliminary investigation by ED has revealed well-planned and thought after scheme to divert and siphon off public money by cheating banks, shareholders, investors and other public institutions. The offence of bribing bank officials including, promoter of Yes Banks Limited is also under scanner,” officials, privy to the development said.

Dramatic increased in corporate loans, illegal loan diversion, and “calculated scheme” to defraud banks, investors, and shareholders:  What the preliminary investigation by ED revealed about the quid pro quo nexus

Preliminary investigation reveals illegal loan diversion of around Rs 3,000 crores from Yes Bank (period 2017 to 2019). ED said it has found that just before the loan was granted, the Yes Bank promoters received money in their concerns.

“ED has found gross violations in Yes Bank loan approvals to RAAGA companies, such as, Credit Approval Memorandums (CAMs) were back-dated, Investments were proposed without any due diligence and credit analysis in violation of Banks Credit Policy inter alia,” said the Officials.

In violation of the loan terms, the officials said, these loans were further diverted to many group companies and shell companies.

“Some red flags found by ED include- loans given to entities with weak financials, no proper documentation of loans, no due diligence, borrowers have common addresses, and common directors etc., diversion of loans to promoter group entities, ever greening of GPC loans, loans onward lent on same date, loans disbursed on same date as date of application, loans disbursed prior to sanction, Misrepresentation of financials,” the officials said.

Furthermore, the probe agency informed that “Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is also learnt to have shared its findings with ED in the case of RHFL.”

“Dramatic increase in corporate loans by RHFL, from Rs 3,742.60 crore in Financial Year 2017-18 to Rs 8,670.80 crore in Financial Year 2018-19 is also under ED lens. Issues of irregular and expedited approvals, process deviations many other illegalities have been found,” the probe agency said.

Amidst raids and fraud accusations, Reliance says “no impact” on business or stakeholders

Meanwhile, the Reliance Anil Ambani Group is reported to have said that the ongoing raids and investigation will have no impact on the business operations, financial performance, shareholders, employees, or any other stakeholders” of Reliance Power and Reliance Infrastructure.

“No Impact on Reliance Power, its business operations, financial performance, shareholders, employees, or any other stakeholders,” Reliance Power asserted in its statement.

“No Impact on Reliance Infrastructure, its business operations, financial performance, shareholders, employees, or any other stakeholders,” Reliance Infrastructure said in its statement.

“The media reports appear to pertain to allegations concerning transactions of Reliance Communications Limited (RCOM) or Reliance Home Finance Limited (RHFL) which are over 10 years old,” the statements, with language largely similar, read.

Reliance Power is a separate and independent listed entity with no business or financial linkage to RCOM or RHFL, it further noted.

RCOM is undergoing Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process as per the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 since over 6 years. RHFL has been fully resolved pursuant to the judgment of the Supreme Court of India.

“Similar allegations as those set out in the media reports are sub-judice and pending before the Hon’ble Securities Appellate Tribunal, as per publicly available information,” the statements read.

“Further, Mr. Anil D. Ambani is not on the Board of Reliance Power. Accordingly, any action taken against RCOM or RHFL has no bearing or impact on the governance, management, or operations of Reliance Power continue to focus its business plans and remains committed to creating value for all stakeholders,” the Reliance Power statement concluded.

Impact of ED raids on Reliance Power and Reliance Infrastructure

Following the ED raids at premises linked to Reliance Anil Ambani Group (RAAGA) companies, the shares of Reliance Power and Reliance Infrastructure slumped by 5 per cent each in intraday trade on 24th July 2025.

As per reports, the shares of Reliance Power and Reliance Infrastructure were locked in a 5 per cent lower circuit at ₹360.05 and ₹59.70, respectively, on the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Bangladesh: ‘Pro-democracy’ Yunus issues ordinance to stop govt employees from protesting against his regime, had earlier intimidated students in a similar manner

OpIndia Staff
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Bangladesh: ‘Pro-democracy’ Yunus issues ordinance to stop govt employees from protesting against his regime, had earlier intimidated students in a similar manner

On Wednesday (23rd July), the Muhammad Yunus regime in Bangladesh issued an ordinance eliminating the right of employees to protest against the government.

The ordinance amended the Government Service Act of 2018. According to reports, if a government employee henceforth goes on a strike, then he/she can be dismissed from service with ‘compulsory retirement’.

Besides the looming threat of forced dismissal from service, government employees could also be demoted to a lower rank or pay grade for agitating against the government.

Muhammad Yunus, who was once critical of Sheikh Hasina for her alleged ‘undemocratic ways’ of running Bangladesh, is now silencing government employees and stopping them from against his regime.

The new Ordinance is a step in the direction to plunge Bangladesh into authoritarianism.

Muhammad Yunus stiffles criticism of his regime by students and educational institutions

The Directorate of Secondary & Higher Education in Bangladesh issued a notice [pdf] on 2nd January this year.

It stated clearly that steps would be taken against students and educational institutions alike for ‘engaging in propaganda’ and ‘peddling misinformation’ against the incumbent interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

The Directorate Of Secondary & Higher Education added that all concerned authorities should remain ‘alert and active’ and ensure that students are ‘not motivated’ by misinformation, propaganda and rumours about the Yunus regime.

It further highlighted that steps should be taken to prevent students from ‘engaging in provocative activities.’

The Directorate Of Secondary & Higher Education emphasised, “In such a situation, it is requested to inform the higher authorities for taking action against any educational institution or any student involved in the issue of misinformation, propaganda and rumours.”

While in theory the notice might be interpreted as a step towards stopping the spread of ‘misinformation’, it is in fact a ploy to silence critics and intimidate students (who spearheaded the movement against the erstwhile Sheikh Hasina government).

Dissent against Bangladesh’s interim government could easily be labelled a ‘work of propaganda’. Students, critical of Muhammad Yunus, would be targeted as engaging in rumour-mongering.

Give the free hand to educational institutions to act against such students, they will be intimidated and coerced into silence.

Duty-free access for around 99% Indian exports will unlock nearly $23 billion in opportunities for labour-intensive sectors, says minister Piyush Goyal after signing the India-UK FTA

OpIndia Staff
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Duty-free access for around 99% Indian exports will unlock nearly $23 billion in opportunities for labour-intensive sectors, says minister Piyush Goyal after signing the India-UK FTA

In a significant move, India and the United Kingdom signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on Thursday, July 24. Officially titled India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the agreement was signed during the Prime minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to London. The step marks India’s first major bilateral trade deal with a developed economy in over a decade. After the approvals of the UK parliament and India’s Union Cabinet, it is expected the trade deal will come into force within a year.

The agreement was signed by Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and the UK’s Secretary of state for Business and trade, Jonathan Reynolds. The decision was followed by the bilateral ties between PM Modi and the British counterpart Keir Starmer in London.

In a post on X, Goyal congratulated Modi, Starmer, and the people of both nations on the mutual deal with the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). He stated that this accord will unlock the duty-free access for about 99% of Indian exports, which will open the gate for $23 billion in opportunities for labour-intensive sectors, marking a new era for inclusive and gender-equitable growth.

Workers and labourers like artisans, weavers, daily wage labourers who work in different verticals like textiles, leather, footwear, gems & jewellery, toys, and marine products will step into a new phase of prosperity. The FTA will mark a historic leap for women with the help of improved access to finance and deeper integration into the global value chain. For people working in village looms to tech labs, this agreement will benefit all.

Goyal added that it is also a win-win for farmers who can have access to duty-free export 95% of their agricultural products, while fisherfolk gain from Zero Duty on 99% of marine exports, boosting their incomes. India’s plantation sector is also expected to benefit greatly, including tea and coffee. Duty-free access on instant coffee will help Indian exporters compete better with European suppliers.

In the manufacturing sector, it will also have a transformative impact on multiple sectors like engineering goods, electronics, pharma, chemicals, food processing, and plastics. The agreement will ensure the Indian customers get high quality goods at competitive prices.

Notably, Engineering goods form the largest category under the FTA, with 1,659 tariff lines and a 17%t share. This includes machinery, equipment, and components.

India’s electronics exports, including smartphones, optical fiber cables, and inverters, are expected to increase with zero-duty access. Software and IT-enabled Services businesses will also benefit from the FTA.

Moreover, the IT services and education will gain easier access to the UK’s high-value markets. The three-year exemption from social security payments in the UK under the Double Contribution Convention marks a major step forward for Indian professionals and their employers. This will especially benefit chefs, yoga teachers, musicians, and business travellers, helping India move closer to becoming a global talent hub.

The India-UK Free Trade Agreement will give Indian startups better access to UK customers, investors, and innovation centres, boosting their global reach. This agreement supports the goals of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ by creating jobs, strengthening communities, and enhancing India’s position in global trade. It signals a fresh chapter in economic cooperation and deepens our trade partnership with the UK.

Additionally, there will be some tariff changes and concessions on goods and services agreed upon by both countries. Import duties on Scotch whisky and gin will drop from 150% to 75% immediately, and to 40% over the next 10 years. Tariffs on UK-manufactured cars, which currently exceed 100%, will be cut to 10% under a quota-based system. India will reduce or eliminate tariffs on products like cosmetics, salmon, chocolates, biscuits, and medical devices.

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