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Amid protests over rape-murder of junior doctor at RG Kar Hospital, Mamata govt transfers two doctors including wife of ex-principal Sandip Ghosh

OpIndia Staff
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Amid protests over rape-murder of junior doctor at RG Kar Hospital, Mamata govt transfers two doctors including wife of ex-principal Sandip Ghosh

On Friday (16th August), the Mamata Banerjee-led-Trinamool Congress government transferred two doctors from the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

In a notification [pdf] issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department, a total of 42 doctors were moved across the State by the government. The development came amid ongoing protests over the rape-murder of a junior doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

The doctors who were removed from the healthcare institution included Sandipa Das and Sangeeta Pal. Coincidentally, Pal happens to be the wife of the ex-principal of RG Medical College and Hospital, Sandip Das (who had infamously dubbed the murder as ‘suicide’).

She was transferred from the Department of Microbiology at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata to that of the Government Medical College & Hospital in Jalpaiguri.

Another doctor named Supriya Das, who was an Assistant Professor at the Department of Radiology in RG Kar Medical College and Hospital was transferred to the same position at Malda College.

The decision was sharply criticised by the United Doctors Front Association (UDFA).

“We strongly condemn @MamataOfficial @BengalGovernor unjust transfer of faculty members who supported our protest.These punitive measures will not silence our demands for justice and security.We stand united and resolute in our fight,” it tweeted.

Allahabad HC refuses to quash proceedings against Ghulamuddin and 5 others who carried Indian Flag with verses of Quran on it, says violation of Flag Code

OpIndia Staff
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Allahabad HC refuses to quash proceedings against Ghulamuddin and 5 others who carried Indian Flag with verses of Quran on it, says violation of Flag Code

Allahabad High Court has refused to quash the criminal proceedings initiated against 6 Muslims for insulting the Indian flag. All the accused were carrying the tricolour in their hands in a religious procession. Verses from the Islamic book Quran were written on the Indian flags they were carrying.

While hearing the case, Justice Vinod Diwakar said that prima facie the act committed by the accused is punishable under the Indian Flag Code 2002. Justice Diwakar further said that Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honor Act 1971 has been violated by the applicants.

The court said that the Indian Flag is a symbol of the unity and diversity of the nation beyond religious ethics and cultural differences. The court said, “It is a unifying symbol representing the collective identity and sovereignty of India. The act of disrespect towards the tricolour can have far-reaching socio-cultural effects, especially in a diverse society like India.”

The Allahabad High Court also said that incidents of writing verses of the Quran and Kalma etc. on the tricolour can be taken advantage of by those who want to create communal disputes or promote misunderstandings between different communities. Therefore, the actions of some individuals should not be used to tarnish the entire community.

Jalaun Police of Uttar Pradesh had registered a case against accused Ghulamuddin and 5 others last year under Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honor Act 1971 Act. In this case, the accused had approached the court seeking bail. His lawyer argued that the investigation did not reveal whether the flag mentioned in the FIR was a tricolour or any other flag with three colors.

The lawyer of the accused further argued that the police could not bring any evidence on record to show that any mischief was done with the National Flag specified in Sections 2 and 3 of the Act. The lawyer also alleged that the police had planted the National Flag after registering the FIR and the accused were implicated in a false case.

At the same time, the Additional Government Advocate (AGA) appearing on behalf of the state government said that the tricolour was waved during the procession. During this, it was seen that something was written in Arabic on the tricolour. It was found out that these are verses from Quran and kalma. Police constables Khurshid Alam, Ehsanullah and Ramdas have recorded their statements in the court.

The government lawyer said, “When Shahar Qazi Maulana Sabir Ali was summoned to Jalaun and asked to read what was written on the flag, he said that Islamic Kalma was written on the flag. Apart from this, a verse related to the sword ‘Zulfiqar’ of Ali was written.

After hearing all the arguments, the court rejected the petition and said that only the trial court can take a decision on this. The court said that no illegality, perversity or any other significant error has been found in the summons order which would justify interference by the court in exercise of powers under Section 482 of the CrPC.

Deliberate attempt to derail Sabarmati Express? – Engine derailed because of object placed on the track, no injuries: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

OpIndia Staff
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Deliberate attempt to derail Sabarmati Express? – Engine derailed because of object placed on the track, no injuries: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

Early morning on Saturday, August 17, the engine of the Sabarmati Express train derailed near Kanpur at 2.35 AM. Thankfully, no passenger or Railway staff was hurt in the incident. Now, the Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has shared that the derailment of the engine took place because of an object placed on the track.

Notably, twenty coaches of the Sabarmati Express passenger train derailed near Govindpuri station in Kanpur after the engine hit an object placed on the track. 

Taking to X, the Railways Minister said, “The engine of Sabarmati Express (Varanasi to Amdavad) hit an object placed on the track and derailed near Kanpur at 02:35 am today.”

Minister Vaishnaw further added, “Sharp hit marks are observed. Evidence is protected. IB and UP police are also working on it.” He further added that there were no injuries to passengers and the staff and train was arranged for their onward journey to Amdavad.

Railway Board officials said involvement of miscreants is being looked into as it appears that the engine hit an object placed on track.

Reportedly, A Railway official said, “We found a foreign material near the 16th coach of the train. Looking at the size of the damaged portion of cattle guard of the engine, it seems that the engine hit this foreign object and derailed.”

YouTuber placing objects on Railway tracks

Notably, this won’t be the first incident of someone deliberately placing objects on Railway tracks. There are many YouTube channels operating where the “creator” puts random things on Railway tracks and then record the videos for likes and shares.

Earlier in August, a YouTuber named Gulzar Sheikh was arrested for putting different items on railway tracks including cycles, soaps, stones and more in the name of content creation.

OpIndia investigated the matter and found that many YouTube channels have been uploading such videos for likes and shares. In most probability, these channels are earning hefty money by monetizing these videos where they attempt to derail trains by placing objects on the tracks.

Schools shut, internet suspended and prohibitory orders imposed: Udaipur witnesses unrest after Muslim boy stabs Hindu student

OpIndia Staff
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Schools shut, internet suspended and prohibitory orders imposed: Udaipur witnesses unrest after Muslim boy stabs Hindu student

On Friday (16th August), the district administration in Udaipur city of Rajasthan suspended internet services for a period of 24 hours.

The development came after communal violence broke out in the city over the stabbing of a minor Hindu student by a Muslim boy at a government school.

Keeping the situation in mind, the administration has shut down all schools and colleges in Udaipur on Saturday (17th August). According to district collector Arvind Poswal, the educational institutes will remain closed until further orders are made.

In the meantime, the police detained the Muslim boy for attacking the Hindu student. District Collector Arvind Poswal informed, ” “There were some complications in the boy’s kidney for which expert doctors from private hospitals have been called in.”

“The Internet has been shut down in parts as a precautionary measure,” he said. An investigation has been launched in connection to the case.

While speaking about the matter, BJP’s MLA Phool Singh Meena emphasised, “The situation in Udaipur has escalated into a riot. We should demolish the accused’s house with a bulldozer. It’s crucial to prevent such incidents.

“The government will take action against those responsible for the crime,” he added.

The case is reminiscent of the deadly attack on Hindu tailor Kanhaiya Lal by two radical Muslim men in Udaipur in June 2022 for supporting ex-BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma.

The killers were identified as Muhammad Riyaz Attari and Ghaus Muhammad. The video of the incident was shared widely on social media.

RG Kar rape and murder case: NCW inquiry committee uncovers lapses in security, infrastructure, and investigation in Kolkata

ANI
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RG Kar rape and murder case: NCW inquiry committee uncovers lapses in security, infrastructure, and investigation in Kolkata

A two-member inquiry committee constituted by the National Commission for Women (NCW) investigated the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata and submitted its preliminary findings uncovering lapses in security, infrastructure, and investigation.

The NCW in a statement said on Friday that the site where the deceased was allegedly raped and murdered is undergoing sudden renovations, potentially leading to tampering with evidence.

“The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo moto cognizance of a distressing incident reported by the media involving the alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at a state-run hospital in Kolkata. The Commission, deeply concerned by the gravity of the situation, has promptly initiated an inquiry into the matter,” it said.

“On 10 August 2024, the NCW addressed a letter to the Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, seeking immediate action and a thorough investigation into the incident. The Commission’s involvement was triggered by a media report captioned “Kolkata rape-murder: Hospital official told doctor’s family she died by suicide, say sources,” which revealed shocking details surrounding the death of the trainee doctor,” it added.

The two-member inquiry committee constituted by the NCW included Delina Khondgup, an NCW Member, and Soma Chaudhary, an Advocate appointed by the West Bengal State Legal Services Authority.

“The Commission constituted a two-member Inquiry Committee to investigate the case, consisting of Delina Khondgup, NCW Member, and Soma Chaudhary, an Advocate appointed by the West Bengal State Legal Services Authority. The Committee arrived in Kolkata on 12 August 2024 and has been rigorously examining the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement from NCW said.

The Inquiry Committee of the NCW found that no security guards were present during the incident, and there was insufficient security coverage for on-call duty interns, doctors, and nurses during night shifts.

“The hospital lacks basic amenities for female doctors and nurses, with washrooms in poor condition, no security measures, and inadequate lighting. The questioning of the former Principal, who resigned after the incident, remains incomplete. The Inquiry Committee urges a thorough and expedited investigation,” the statement said.

“There is no adequate protection or safety for on-call female duty interns, nurses, and female doctors. The site where the deceased was allegedly raped and murdered is undergoing sudden renovations, potentially leading to tampering with evidence. The crime scene should have been sealed immediately by the police,” it added.

The NCW is committed to ensuring that justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable. In light of the serious lapses uncovered, the Commission urges immediate corrective measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Meanwhile, a nationwide withdrawal of services has been announced by doctors of modern medicine starting from 6 am on Saturday, August 17 to 6 am Sunday, August 18, per the official statement released by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Thursday.

Notably, the strike has been called by IMA amid the ongoing protest in Kolkata over the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College.

In its official statement, IMA stated that routine OPDs and elective surgeries will not take place during those 24 hours; however, other essential services will be maintained.

On August 9, a postgraduate trainee doctor was allegedly raped and murdered on duty at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, which led to nationwide strikes and protests by the medical fraternity.

The incident triggered massive protests. On Wednesday, the protest ground and the hospital campus at RG Kar were vandalised by a mob, forcing the security personnel to disperse the crowd. 

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

Union Cabinet approves Bangalore Metro Phase-3, Thane Integral Ring Metro and Pune Metro Phase-1 Extension with a total cost of ₹30,766 crore

OpIndia Staff
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Union Cabinet approves Bangalore Metro Phase-3, Thane Integral Ring Metro and Pune Metro Phase-1 Extension with a total cost of ₹30,766 crore

The Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday approved three new metro projects in Pune, Bengaluru and Thane, in a bid to ease traffic congestion and provide efficient transportation. The cabinet approved two corridors of the Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-3 project for 44.65 km with 31 stations, 29-km Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project corridor, and a 5.45 km extension of Phase-1 of Pune metro.

The cabinet also approved the development of Bagdogra Airport, West Bengal and an army airport into a civilian airport at Bihta, Bihar.

Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-3 

The Union Cabinet also approved the Phase-3 of Bangalore Metro Rail Project with two elevated corridors for a length of 44.65 Km with 31 stations. Corridor-1 from JP Nagar 4thPhase to Kempapura (along Outer Ring Road West) for a length of 32.15 Km with 22 stations and Corridor-2 from Hosahalli to Kadabagere (along Magadi Road) for a length of 12.50 Km with 9 stations.

On operationalization of Phase-3, Bengaluru city will have 220.20 Km of active Metro Rail Network. The total completion cost of the project is Rs.15,611 crore.

Benefits of the Project:

The Phase-3 of Bangalore Metro Rail Project represents a significant advancement in the city’s infrastructure development. Phase-3 acts as a major expansion of the Metro Rail Network in the city.

Enhanced Connectivity:       

Phase-3 will add approximately 44.65 Km of new metro lines, connecting the western part of the city of Bengaluru that were previously underserved. Phase-3 will integrate key areas of the city which includes Peenya Industrial Area, IT industries on Bannerghatta road and Outer Ring Road, Textile and Engineering items Manufacturing units on Tumkuru Road and ORR, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Major educational institutions like PES University, Ambedkar College, Polytechnic College, KLE College, Dayanandsagar University, ITI etc. Phase-3 corridors also provide connectivity to the Southern part of the city, Outer Ring Road West, Magadi road and various neighbourhoods, enhancing overall connectivity in the city. Improved last mile connectivity to commercial centres, industrial hubs, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities will facilitate better access for residents.

Reduction in Traffic Congestion:

Metro Rail as an efficient alternate road transport and with Phase-3 as an extension to the Metro Rail network in the Bengaluru city is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and will be particularly impactful on heavily congested routes of the Outer Ring Road West, Magadi road and other major arterial roads of the city. Reduction in road traffic can lead to smoother movement of vehicles, reduction in travel time, increasing overall road safety etc.

Environmental Benefits:      

The addition of Phase-3 Metro Rail Project and increase in overall Metro Rail Network in Bengaluru city, can significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel-based transport.

Economic Growth:      

Reduced travel times and improved access to different parts of the city can enhance productivity by allowing individuals to reach their workplaces more efficiently. The construction and operation of Phase-3 will generate numerous jobs in various sectors, from construction workers to administrative staff and maintenance personnel. Also, the enhanced connectivity can stimulate local businesses, especially in areas near new metro stations which can also attract investment and development in previously less accessible regions.

Social Impact:    

The expansion of Phase-3 Metro Rail network in Bengaluru will provide more equitable access to public transport, benefiting diverse socio-economic groups and reducing transport disparities which will contribute to a higher quality of life by reducing commute times and improving access to essential services.

Multi-Modal Integration& Last Mile Connectivity:

Multi-Modal Integration is planned at 10 locations at JP Nagar 4th Phase, JP Nagar, Kamakya, Mysore Road, Sumanahalli, Peenya, BEL Circle, Hebbal, Kempapura, Hosahalli and provides interchanges with existing and under construction Metro Stations, BMTC Bus stands, Indian Railway Stations, proposed Suburban (K-RIDE) Stations.

All the Phase-3 stations are proposed with dedicated bus bays, Pick up and drop off bays, Pedestrian Paths, IPT/Auto Rickshaw stands.  BMTC is already running feeder buses to the operational metro stations and the same will be extended to the Phase-3 stations also. Parking facilities have been provided at 11 important stations.  The existing stations of Phase-1 & Phase-2 are integrated with proposed stations of Phase-3.Direct connectivity through FoBs/Skywalks to two Railway stations (Lottegollahali and Hebbal). At Phase-3 metro stations, provision for bikes and cycles sharing facility has also been provided.

Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project

The 29-km corridor will run along the periphery of west side of Thane city with 22 Stations. The network is encompassed by Ulhas River on one side and Sanjay Gandhi National Park [SGNP] on the other.

This connectivity would provide a sustainable and efficient mode of transport, facilitating the city to realize its economic potential and ease traffic congestion on the roads. The project is also expected to contribute to reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

The estimated cost of the project is Rs.12,200.10 crore, with equal equity from Government of India and Government of Maharashtra as well as part-funding from bilateral agencies.

Funds would also be raised through innovative financing methods such as by selling Station naming and access rights for corporate, monetization of assets, Value Capture Financing route.

The corridor that connects major business hubs would provide an effective transport option for large section of employees.  The Project is likely to be completed by 2029.

More importantly, the Metro line would benefit thousands of daily commuters, especially students and those commuting every day to office and work area by providing faster and economical transport options. The project would result in total daily ridership on the metro corridors for the years 2029, 2035 and 2045 by 6.47 Lakh, 7.61 lakh & 8.72 lakh passengers respectively.

Maha Metro will execute the project, along with civil, electro­mechanical, other associated facilities, works and related assets. Maha-Metro has already started the pre-bid activities and preparation of Tender documents. The contracts will be floated immediately for bidding.

Pune Metro Phase-1 extension

The union cabinet approved the Swargate to Katraj Underground Line Extension of the existing PCMC-Swargate Metro Line of Pune Metro Phase-I project. This new extension is known as the Line-l B extension and will span 5.46 km and will include three underground stations, connecting key areas such as Market Yard, Bibwewadi, Balaji Nagar, and the Katraj suburbs.

The project, aimed at providing seamless connectivity in Pune, is set to be completed by February, 2029.

The estimated cost of the project is Rs.2954.53 crore, with funding to be equally shared by the Government of India and the Government of Maharashtra, along with contributions from bilateral agencies, etc.

This extension will integrate with the Swargate Multimodal Hub, which includes the Metro Station, the MSRTC Bus Stand, and the PMPML Bus Stand, providing seamless connectivity for commuters within and outside Pune City. This extension will enhance connectivity between the southernmost part of Pune, the northern parts of Pune and the eastern and western regions via the District Court interchange station, providing seamless connectivity for commuting within and outside Pune City.

The Swargate to Katraj Underground Line will significantly alleviate road traffic congestion and provide a safer, more comfortable travel experience by minimizing the risk of accidents, pollution, and travel time, thus supporting sustainable urban development.

The new corridor will link various bus stops, railway stations, recreational centers like the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park,Taljaihillock (tekdi), malls, etc., various residential areas, educational institutions, colleges, and major business hubs. It will provide a faster and more economical transport option, benefiting thousands of daily commuters, especially students, small business owners and professionals traveling to offices and business centers. The projected daily ridership on the Swargate-Katraj Line for the years 2027, 2037, 2047, and 2057 is estimated to be 95,000,1.58 lakh, 1.87 lakh, and 1.97 lakh passengers, respectively.

The project will be executed by Maha-Metro, which will oversee civil, electro-mechanical, and other associated facilities and works. Maha-Metro has already begun pre-bid activities and is preparing tender documents, with contracts expected to be floated for bidding shortly.

This strategic expansion is expected to unlock Pune’s economic potential, providing a significant boost to the city’s infrastructure and contributing to its sustainable development.

New civil enclave at Bihta

In a move to address the impending saturation of Patna Airport, the Cabinet has approved the development of a new civil enclave at Bihta, Bihar. With an investment of Rs. 1,413 crore, this project includes the construction of a new Integrated Terminal Building designed to handle up to 3,000 peak-hour passengers, with an annual capacity of 50 lakh passengers, expandable to one crore.

The new terminal will span 66,000 square meters and will be equipped with modern facilities, including an apron capable of accommodating 10 parking bays for aircraft like the A-321 and B-737-800. This development is crucial for catering to the growing passenger demand in Bihar and is expected to significantly enhance the region’s connectivity.

 New Civil Enclave at Bagdgora Airport

The Cabinet has approved the Airports Authority of India’s (AAI) proposal for the development of a new civil enclave at Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri, West Bengal, with an estimated cost of Rs. 1,549 crore.

The new terminal building will cover 70,390 sqm and is designed to handle 3,000 Peak Hour Passengers (PHP), with an annual capacity of 10 million passengers. The project will include the construction of an apron with 10 parking bays for A-321 aircraft, two link taxiways, and multi-level car parking. The terminal will also focus on sustainability, featuring a green building design that incorporates renewable energy sources and maximizes natural lighting to reduce its environmental impact.

This development is set to enhance Bagdogra Airport’s operational efficiency and passenger experience, further solidifying its importance as a key air travel hub for the region.

Maharashtra: Tensions in Nashik, Jalgaon after Muslim mobs pelt stones, go on a rampage against protests against persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh

OpIndia Staff
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Maharashtra: Tensions in Nashik, Jalgaon after Muslim mobs pelt stones, go on a rampage against protests against persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh

Tensions gripped Nashik, Jalgaon, and Aurangabad after protests organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj over the ongoing persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh faced attacks, including stone pelting, triggering a law and order situation.

In Nashik, a shutdown was called on Friday to protest against the persecution of Hindus and the vandalism of temples in Bangladesh. Violence has been ongoing in Bangladesh for the past few days, with attacks on the Hindu community and the destruction of temples. But clashes erupted after protests by Hindu groups encountered resistance, leading to violent face-off and stone pelting in the Bhadrakali area.

The Sakal Hindu Samaj officials have urged the central government to take immediate steps to safeguard the Hindu community and temples that have come under attack following the hasty removal of Sheikh Hasina, who had to flee to India in the wake of violent protests as Islamists stormed her residence and the Bangladeshi parliament in what they claimed as a “revolution” to restore democracy. But soon, the protests, spearheaded by Islamists, metamorphosed into anti-Hindu violence as the Hindu minority in the nation and their places of worship faced attacks in a country without a stable governing administration.

Nashik Road was also shut down

In response to the large-scale attacks on the Hindu community and families during the riots in Bangladesh, the Sakal Hindu Samaj called for a district-wide shutdown in Nashik, which received significant support in the Nashik Road area. Shops in areas like Subhash Road, Deolali Gaon Station Road, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, Chhatrapati Shivaji Putala Chowk, Bitco Chowk Muktidham area, Jail Road, and Sinnar Phata remained closed, while in some places, open shops were forced to close by Hindu society workers.

Shops were shut down

Hindu society workers rode around on motorcycles, urging shopkeepers to close their shops. Responding to their call, many shopkeepers complied and closed their businesses. To prevent any untoward incidents, strict security measures were put in place under the guidance of Senior Police Inspector Ashok Giri from the Nashik Road Police Station and Senior Police Inspector Jitendra Sapkale from the Suburban Police Station.

Tensions flare up in Jalgaon over protests against persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh

Tension flared in Jalgaon city, North Maharashtra, on Friday when stones were thrown at a vehicle showroom during a similar protest march held by a Hindu organisation Sakal Hindu Samaj to denounce the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh, officials reported.

Meanwhile, tension persisted in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, formerly known as Aurangabad, due to the remarks made by preacher and religious scholar Ramgiri Maharaj, who allegedly hurt religious sentiments by speaking against Prophet Mohammed.

Rishab Shetty, Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh win best actor awards at 70th National Film Awards, Aattam named the best movie- Read the full list

OpIndia Staff
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Rishab Shetty, Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh win best actor awards at 70th National Film Awards, Aattam named the best movie- Read the full list

The 70th National Film Awards were announced on Friday, honouring the best films of 2022 along with outstanding actors and crew from across India.

Ahead of the announcement, Rahul Rawail, Chairperson of the Feature Film Jury, Nila Madhab Panda, Chairperson of the Non-Feature Film Jury, and Gangadhar Mudalair, Chairperson of the Best Writing on Cinema Jury, along with the respective jury members presented the list of award winners of the 70th National Film Awards for the year 2022 to the Union Minister of Railways, Information and Broadcasting and Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw today. Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Sh. Sanjay Jaju and Joint Secretary (Films), Ms. Vrunda Desai were also present at the occasion.

Among the highlights, Rishab Shetty, Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh received Best Actor awards for their roles in Kantaram, Thiruchitrambalam and Kutch Express respectively. Best feature film award has been given to Aattam (The Play) directed by Anand Ekarshi and the award for Best Non-Feature Film has been bagged by Ayena (Mirror) directed by Siddhant Sarin.

The award for Best Book on Cinema has been given to Kishore Kumar: The Ultimate Biography authored by Anirudha Bhattacharjee & Parthiv Dhar.

Kantara won the Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.

Rishab Shetty has been awarded the Best Actor in Leading Role for his performance in the Kannada movie Kantara whereas Nithya Menen bagged the award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for Tamil movie Thiruchitrambalam. Manasi Parekh also won the award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for Gujarati movie Kutch Express.

Pavan Raj Malhotra won the award for Best Supporting Actor while Neena Gupta won the Best Supporting Actress Award in the Feature Films category.

Directed by Ayan Mukerji with its VFX Supervisors Jaykar Arudra, Viral Thakkar, and Neelesh Gore, Brahmastra-Part 1: Shiva bagged the award for Best Film in AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects Gaming & Comic). 

Arijit Singh has been named the best playback singer for the song ‘Kesariya’ in the movie Brahmastra-Part 1: Shiva. Bombay Jayashri won the best female playback singer for the song Chaayum Veyil in Malayalam movie Saudi Vellakka CC.225/2009.

Manoj Bajpayee’s Gulmohar received a special mention.

Here’s a look at the full list of winners in the Feature Films and Non-Feature Films categories.

THE KEY AWARDS —

  • Best Film: Aattam (Malayalam)
  • Best Debut Film: Fouja (Haryanvi)
  • Best Film providing wholesome entertainment: Kantara (Kannada)
  • Best Feature Film promoting national, social, and environmental values: Kutch Express (Gujarati)
  • Best Film in AVGC: Brahmastra Part 1 (Hindi)
  • Best Director: Sooraj Barjatya – Uunchai (Hindi)
  • Best Actor in Leading Role: Nithya Menen – Thiruchitrambalam (Tamil), Manasi Parekh – Kutch Express (Gujarati), Rishab Shetty – Kantara (Kannada)
  • Best Actor in Supporting Role: Neena Gupta – Uunchai (Hindi), Pavan Raj Malhotra – Fouja (Gujarati)
  • Best Child Artiste: Sreepath – Malikappuram (Malayalam)

CREW AWARDS —

  • Best Action Direction: Anbariv – KGF Chapter 2 (Kannada)
  • Best Choreography: Jani Master, Sathish Krishnan – Thiruchitrambalam (Megham Karukatha) (Tamil)
  • Best Lyrics: Naushad Sadar Khan – Fouja (Salaami) (Gujarati)
  • Best Music Direction: Pritham (songs) – Brahmastra Part 1 (Hindi), AR Rahman (background music) – Ponniyin Selvan Part 1 (Tamil)
  • Best Makeup: Somnath Kundu – Aparajito (Bengali)
  • Best Costume Design: Niki Joshi – Kutch Express (Gujarati)
  • Best Production Design: Ananda Addhya – Aparajito (Bengali)
  • Best Editing: Mahesh Bhuvanend – Aattam (Malayalam)
  • Best Sound Design: Anand Krishnamoorthi – Ponniyin Selvan Part 1 (Tamil)
  • Best Screenplay: Anand Ekarshi (screenplay writer) – Aattam (Malayalam), Arpita Mukherjee and Rahul V Chittella (dialogues) – Gulmohar (Hindi)
  • Best Cinematography: Ravi Varman – Ponniyin Selvan Part 1 (Tamil)
  • Best Playback Singer: Bombay Jayshree – Saudi Vellakka CC 225/2009 (Chaayum Veyil) (Malayalam), Arijit Singh – Brahmastra Part 1 (Kesariya) (Hindi)

REGIONAL FILMs —

  • Best Tiwa Film: Sikaisal
  • Best Telugu Film: Karthikeya 2
  • Best Tamil Film: Ponniyin Selvan Part 1
  • Best Punjabi Film: Baghi Di Dhee
  • Best Odia Film: Daman
  • Best Malayalam Film: Saudi Vellakka CC 225/2009
  • Best Marathi Film: Vaalvi
  • Best Kannada Film: KGF Chapter 2
  • Best Hindi Film: Gulmohar
  • Best Bengali Film: Kaberi Antardhan
  • Best Assamese Film: Emuthi Puthi

SPECIAL MENTIONS —

  • Manoj Bajpayee (actor) – Gulmohar (Hindi)
  • Sanjay Salil Chowdhury (music director) – Kadhikan (Malayalam)

NON-FEATURE —

  • Best Non-Feature Film: Ayena
  • Best Debut Film: Madhyantara
  • Best Biographical/Historical/Compilation Film: Aanakhi Ek Mohenjo Daro
  • Best Arts/Culture Film: Ranga Vibhoga/Varsa
  • Best Script: Mono No Aware
  • Best Narrator: Murmurs of the Jungle
  • Best Music Direction: Fursat
  • Best Editing: Madhyantara
  • Best Sound Design: Yaan
  • Best Cinematography: Mono No Aware
  • Best Direction: From the Shadow
  • Best Short Film: Xunyota
  • Best Animated Film: The Coconut Tree
  • Best Non-Feature Film Promoting Social and Environmental Values: On the Brink Season 2 – Gharial
  • Best Documentary: Murmurs of the Jungle

FILM WRITING —

  • Best Critic: Deepak Dua
  • Best Book on Cinema: Kishore Kumar: The Ultimate Biography  

RG Kar Hospital attack was pre-planned to destroy evidence? Man in mob can be heard saying ‘let’s go to seminar room’ in video, lawyer says mob reached wrong floor due to confusion

OpIndia Staff
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RG Kar Hospital attack was pre-planned to destroy evidence? Man in mob can be heard saying ‘let’s go to seminar room’ in video, lawyer says mob reached wrong floor due to confusion

As many as twenty-five people have been reportedly arrested for an attack on Kolkata’s RG Medical College and Hospital on the night of 14th August following the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor. While the police claim that protestors against the incident went violent and attacked the hospital, it has been widely alleged that the mob wanted to destroy evidence of the crime by vandalising the crime scene. Now, a video from the incident seems to have confirmed the allegation.

A video of the incident has been published by ABP Ananda, in which the violent mob that targeted the medical institution can be seen creating a ruckus while someone is heard directing the goons to go to the seminar room where the heinous crime was committed. The person can be heard saying in Bengali, “Let’s go to the s eminar room,” as others continue to wreak havoc on the premises. It seems to suggest that they wanted to vandalise the seminar room to destroy evidence of the crime.

On the other hand, the authorities have claimed that the investigation is underway and they need time to unravel the entire truth. But today the Calcutta High Court transferred the case of the attack also to the CBI.

The malicious crowd descended upon the hospital like a swarm of flies and vandalised the place, burnt police vehicles and assaulted the doctors as the cops took refuge inside the bathrooms and requested help from the nurses. At least eighteen departments including the emergency room, intensive care unit, and high-dependency unit as well as the storage room, male wards, washrooms and even CCTV cameras were broken. As per police, there were around 7000 people in the crowd, and therefore the police were greatly outnumbered.

Notably, Senior advocate Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya informed the Calcutta High Court today during the hearing on the incident that the hooligans wanted to vandalise the crime scene, but they reached the wrong floor due to confusion over the floor number. The seminar room is located on the third floor of the building, and the third floor is called 4th Story (4th Tala) in Bengali. Therefore, they went to the third storey of the building, which is actually the second floor, and vandalised rooms on that floor.

Therefore, the mob attacked the wrong floor while they targeted the seminar room, the lawyer said, adding that this proves that the attack was prearranged to destroy the crime scene and remove any evidence. During the hearing, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government and police were slammed by the court for its abject failure to protect the doctors from the mob.

The state claimed that although police attempted to disperse the crowd, they were unable to prevent the attack as assailants were about 7,000 in number and multiple police officers suffered injuries as a result. When the police and others couldn’t even defend themselves, the court retorted, asking how they would protect the doctors. The court even threatened to close the hospital and move the patients to another facility since it was not satisfied with the administration’s reply. “Normally the police always has an intelligence wing. Similar things happened on Hanuman Jayanti. If 7000 people are to gather, it is hard to believe the state police did not know,” the court pointed out.

“You pass 144 Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) orders for any reason and when so much commotion is going on, you should have cordoned the area,” the court stated to which state counsel alleged that the mob had unexpectedly gathered at night. The court then chastised the government and highlighted, “This is an absolute failure of state machinery.”

Udaipur: Communal tensions erupt over a knife attack against a 15-year-old student by a schoolmate, outraged Hindu groups call for a bandh in protest

OpIndia Staff
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Udaipur: Communal tensions erupt over a knife attack against a 15-year-old student by a schoolmate, outraged Hindu groups call for a bandh in protest

Udaipur was in the grips of communal tensions on Friday, August 16, following a knife attack against a Hindu student by a student allegedly belonging to the Muslim community.

The altercation between two students led to Hindu organisations closing markets in various parts of the city.

The attack took place around 10:30 AM in the Surajpol police station area, where one student injured another with a knife before fleeing the scene.

The injured student was quickly taken to Maharana Bhupal (MB) Hospital by teachers, where he is now receiving treatment in the ICU. Outraged by the incident, people have forced the closure of shops in the Chetak Circle, Hathipole, Ashwini Market, Bapu Bazaar, and Ghantaghar areas. Police have been deployed as a precautionary measure.

District Education Officer Lokesh Bharti mentioned that both minors, around 15 years old, are classmates at the Government Senior Secondary School, Bhatiyani Chohatta.

The exact cause of the dispute between the two students remains unclear, but they clashed outside the school during lunchtime. One of the students stabbed the other two to three times in the thigh. As the injured student began screaming, teachers hurried to the scene.

The child’s parents were notified and rushed to MB Hospital, accompanied by a large number of residents. Police forces have been stationed at the hospital to ensure order is maintained.

Residents took to the streets after the incident, vandalising property, setting a garage on fire, and overturning several vehicles in the Sardarpura area. In response to the unrest, Udaipur Collector and District Magistrate Arvind Poswal imposed Section 144 in the city, instructing officials to enforce the order rigorously.

Kanhaiya Lal murder roils Udaipur

The knife attack, for many, brought back the memories of the horrifying incident witnessed two years ago, when two Islamists, egged on by the Sar Tan Se Juda protests sparked in the wake of Alt News cofounder Mohammed Zubair’s dog whistling against Nupur Sharma, brutally killed a Hindu tailor for supporting the beleaguered former BJP spokesperson. 

On 28th June 2022, two Islamists, Mohammed Riyaz Attari and Gaus Mohammed, killed Hindu tailor Kanhaiya Lal and circulated the video of the crime online to send a message to supporters of Nupur Sharma. The murder was allegedly motivated by a social media post by Kanhaiya Lal in support of former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma. Following the post, he received threats and got calls for his arrest.

On 15th June 2022, Lal reportedly filed a complaint with the local police seeking protection. However, the police did not take any concrete action, and he was left vulnerable. Kanhaiya Lal kept the shop shut for a few days after receiving threats. Eventually, he had to open the shop, which led to the attack. The two Islamists were arrested soon after the murder and charged with premeditated murder and criminal conspiracy. Their trial is currently ongoing.

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