Asianet Newsable

Kerala: Heroic Worker Rescues 3-Year-Old Girl Stranded on Palakkad Warehouse Rooftop, Video Goes Viral (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 16:18:26 +0530

In what was a heart-stopping moment, a three-year-old girl in Palakkad’s Alanallur was miraculously rescued by a worker after scaling the top of the roof of the local warehouse on Saturday, October 31.

In a video that went viral on social media, a girl was seen stranded on the roof of a warehouse, crying frantically while looking down. Sensing immediate danger, one of the warehouse workers acted without hesitation and climbed onto the rooftop by using an adjacent structure to reach the terrified child.

The child was safely rescued by a worker, identified as Shihabudheen, without injuries, and the entire incident was captured on camera by bystanders and onlookers, who were apparently relieved to see the toddler brought down unharmed.

Also Read: REAL Or FAKE? Passenger Captures Climbers Scaling Mount Everest From Airplane Window - Viral Video

How Did the Girl Reach the Warehouse Roof?

Alanallur, which is located in the Mannarkkad taluk of Palakkad district, witnessed locals and warehouse workers stunned by a three–year–old stranded on the rooftop of a local scrap warehouse.

According to local reports, the young girl was playing near the warehouse when she noticed a pile-up of plastic waste bags stacked against the building's exterior wall. Using the bags as makeshift steps, the three-year-old girl scrambled onto the rooftop within minutes. However, the girl panicked when she couldn’t find a way back to the ground.

Realising she was stuck, she began to cry helplessly, attracting the attention of warehouse workers and the locals. Upon spotting the distressed girl perched precariously near the edge of the rooftop, Shihabudheen immediately climbed from an adjacent structure to the child, who was safe upon rescue and suffered no injuries during the entire ordeal.

Shocking video !

A 3-year-old girl climbed onto a building roof in Alanallur, Palakkad by walking over plastic waste bags. The terrified child was crying in fear when worker Shihab bravely climbed up & rescued her.

Heart-stopping moment .

#Palakkad #Rescue #Viral https://t.co/dbqLdeyJ7y

— Nambiar Adarsh Narayanan P V (@Adarsh4BJP) October 31, 2026

Shihab embraced and pacified the distressed girl when he managed to reach her at the top. He then carried the child down carefully, bringing her safely back to the ground to the immense relief of all onlookers gathered below.

Since the warehouse has a 20 ft drop from the rooftop, a fall could have proved fatal. Relieved bystanders cheered as Shihab safely handed the child back to her family.

The Escape That Could Have Turned Tragic

A warehouse in Alanallur, Palakkad, became a focus of local attention when the three-year-old climbed the rooftop of the scrap warehouse, putting herself in extreme danger. A pile of plastic bags was stacked right against the wall, creating an easy ramp for the curious toddler to climb up unnoticed.

Initially, the warehouse workers and locals were left wondering how the girl reached the rooftop, only to realise that the stacked waste bags provided a direct pathway to the top. The incident underscored the hazards posed by improperly stored materials near residential areas.

The locals began to panic and tense up when the three-year-old perched towards the edge of the rooftop, as a minor slip could have become fatal given the 30-foot drop. Fortunately, Shihabudheen’s swift presence of mind turned a potentially tragic incident into a story of heroism and relief for the entire community.

The three-year-old girl is reportedly the child of a migrant labourer from Assam and is working at a warehouse factory as part of a plastic waste-sorting unit. A local warehouse in Alanallur’s Estatepadi area became the centre of attention after the incident.

Also Read: Four Black Bears Raid Couple's Truck In Tennessee, Steal Beer And Snacks In Viral Video

Dehradun Shocker: Mob Armed with Hockey Sticks Storms Petrol Pump, Attacks Staff and Flees with Cash (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 29 Oct 2026 00:51:27 +0530

In a shocking yet concerning incident, a mob armed with hockey sticks and iron rods stormed a petrol pump in Dehradun, brutally attacked the staff, and fled from the scene with cash collected from daily sales on Tuesday, October 27.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), a group of miscreants can be seen entering the petrol pump and attacking the employees with heavy wooden sticks, hockey sticks, and iron rods without any warning, leaving four employees injured and reportedly taking away INR 85,800 in daily cash sales.

The employees were promptly rushed to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment, with two of the victims suffering severe head injuries from the brutal blows by a group of assailants.

Also Read: Thiruvananthapuram: Husband Attacks Wife With Machete On Busy Road! Read On

How Did the Shocking Incident Unfold?

Shri Bankey Bihari Filling Station, located on Saharanpur Road near the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT), witnessed an unexpected mob attack on the employees of the petrol pump around 4:30 am on Tuesday, October 27.

According to reports, the incident stemmed from a minor dispute regarding refueling and CNG filling. The youths and a petrol pump employee reportedly scuffled after they allegedly insisted on filling petrol at the CNG machine. The group abused the employee and threatened him before leaving the pump.

Around 4:30 am, reportedly, a group of 12 to 13 youths stormed the pump with hockey sticks and iron rods and barged into the employees’ room and assaulted four workers. Two other workers, identified as Himanshu and Tinku, suffered serious head injuries, while Rithik and Sawan were also injured.

A minor Kalesh at a petrol pump in Dehradun allegedly escalated into a violent attack. Hours later, 12–13 youths reportedly stormed the employees’ room with hockey sticks, sticks and iron rods, injuring several workers, 85k INr is also looted from shop https://t.co/BroPLvO6ey

— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) October 28, 2026

The mob not only attacked the petrol pump employees but also took away INR 85,000 cash, which was collected from the day's sales, before fleeing the scene. Following the incident, the police arrived at the scene, registered a case based on the petrol pump operator’s complaint, and began investigating.

Officers are examining CCTV footage to identify the 12–13 suspected assailants and trace their vehicles. Police are also investigating the allegation that the group fled with INR 85,800 in cash collected from the day’s sales.

FIR Registered against the Accused

Shri Bankey Bihari Filling Station, located on Saharanpur Road near the ISBT, falls under the jurisdiction of the Patel Nagar police station in Dehradun.

Patel Nagar CO Sadar Ankit Kandari confirmed that the police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) based on a formal complaint filed by the operator of the pump where the incident took place. The officer further stated that they were investigating the allegation that INR 85,000 in cash was stolen by the mob.

ISBT Chowki In-charge Jayveer Singh confirmed that the altercation between petrol pump employees and the mob stemmed from a dispute over filling fuel, adding that his team is actively scanning the CCTV footage, which was installed on the premises of the filling station, to identify the suspects.

Jayveer further added that Llw enforcement has already spotted a non-registered Royal Enfield Bullet and a Honda Activa scooter used by the attackers, which are being tracked to make arrests.

Also Read: Almora Woman Threatens Suicide After Married Lover Returns To Wife And Children | Viral Video

Jio IPO Debut: Emotional Mukesh Ambani Watches Akash Vow Global Push in AI, Cloud & Space

Divya Danu — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 13:15:40 +0530

Mukesh Ambani appeared emotional as his children spoke at Jio IPO listing event. MD Akash Ambani called the listing a starting point for company, promising to expand digital access through AI, cloud computing, connected devices and space connectivity

Jio Platforms Managing Director Akash Ambani has promised to take the company to greater heights, expand its global presence and make emerging technologies accessible to more people in India. Speaking at the company's stock market listing ceremony on Wednesday, he described the occasion as the beginning of a new phase rather than the end of a journey.

The listing followed Jio Platforms' Rs 30,213 crore initial public offering (IPO), which attracted applications worth Rs 7.5 lakh crore from investors. The response, Akash said, exceeded even his own expectations and left the company with a greater responsibility towards its shareholders and customers.

The event was attended by Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani, his wife Nita Ambani, their children Akash, Isha and Anant, and family matriarch Kokilaben Ambani. The family gathered at the exchange as Jio Platforms began its journey as a publicly listed company.

Bell-ringing ceremony marks the stock market debut of Jio Platforms Limited https://t.co/Hd8ntOzcyK

— Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 28, 2026

Next Gen Leaders from the Ambani Family after Jio Platforms' blockbuster debut on stock exchanges on 28th October 2026

From Left to Right:

Ashish Kumar Chauhan, MD&CEO, National Stock Exchange, Shloka Ambani, Akash Ambani, MD, Jio Platforms, Anant Ambani, Isha Ambani, Anand Piramal

— Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 28, 2026

Akash Ambani Says Jio's Listing Is A Starting Point

Addressing the gathering at the National Stock Exchange (NSE), Akash said the company would continue building on its work in digital connectivity and technology.

"This is not a finish line. It is a start line," he said, underlining the ambitions the company has for its next phase of growth.

He promised to take Jio to greater heights in terms of growth, excellence and reputation in India and across the world. He also said the company would work to create wealth for investors, drawing a parallel with the record of Reliance Industries over nearly five decades.

Speech by Shri Akash Ambani, Managing Director, Jio Platforms Limited, at the listing ceremony of JPL IPO https://t.co/taWTUU7Zbv

— Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 28, 2026

Akash said the responsibility of the next generation was not simply to preserve the legacy they had inherited. They also had to make Jio bigger, better and more meaningful for India.

The company, which has played a major role in expanding affordable mobile data access, now wants to extend that approach to technologies that could influence how Indians work, communicate and access digital services.

AI, Cloud And Space Connectivity In Jio's Next Phase

Akash outlined an ambitious vision for Jio Platforms' next decade, saying the company wanted to make a wider range of technologies accessible to ordinary people.

"In our next ten (years), we want to democratise every technology that can transform Indian lives: AI, cloud, connected devices, connectivity even from space and digital services not yet imagined," he said.

He said Jio had spent its first decade democratising data and would now focus on expanding access to technologies that could create new opportunities.

According to Akash, the real value of technology lies in the opportunities it creates, the barriers it removes and the lives it improves.

He described a future in which Jio Platforms would sit at the centre of a digital society, bringing connectivity, computing and intelligence together in a seamless way.

The vision extends beyond telecommunications to artificial intelligence, cloud computing, connected devices and space-based connectivity. These areas could allow the company to serve customers through a broader range of digital products and services.

Akash also said India was moving beyond its traditional role as a consumer of technology and increasingly becoming a creator of it.

He expressed confidence that Jio Platforms could one day become one of the world's leading technology companies. "We are now ready to take the tricolour global," he said.

The strong response to Jio Platforms' IPO was a key highlight of the listing ceremony.

Akash said the offering received demand worth Rs 7.5 lakh crore through 1.3 crore applications. The issue was fully subscribed within 95 minutes of its launch, reflecting the level of interest among investors.

He described the response as a humbling experience and said it had strengthened the company's sense of responsibility.

"Our success is measured by the ambitions we encourage and the potential we unlock towards a better India," he said.

The Jio Platforms share was trading at Rs 1,358.70 on the BSE at 11.01 am, up 21.42% from its issue price. The benchmark index, meanwhile, was down 0.89% at the time.

The listing gives public market investors an opportunity to participate directly in the growth of Jio Platforms, whose services have become a significant part of India's digital economy.

Isha Ambani, Executive Director of Reliance Retail Ventures, spoke about Jio's journey and the effort behind its expansion.

She recalled a family dinner conversation in which her father, Mukesh Ambani, spoke about Reliance Industries' first public offering in 1977. Mukesh was 20 at the time, while founder Dhirubhai Ambani had decided to take the company to the people.

Isha drew a connection between that decision and Jio's listing, presenting both as important moments in the group's relationship with investors and the public.

She said Jio had generated around $15.5 billion in revenue and approximately $8 billion in what she described as real earnings this year, despite being only a decade old.

However, she stressed that the figures represented more than financial performance. Behind every number, she said, was a customer who had welcomed Jio into their life.

Speech by Ms Isha Ambani, Director, Jio Platforms, at the listing ceremony of JPL IPO https://t.co/hynbq2Aqp7

— Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 28, 2026

Isha also praised her brother's commitment to building the business. She said Akash had worked on Jio for 13 years and had spent countless nights working until midnight or later.

She said she could not be prouder of him, while recalling the family principle associated with their grandfather Dhirubhai Ambani: "Growth is life."

Isha pledged that the group would continue creating value for shareholders as it pursued further growth.

Anant Ambani, Executive Director of Reliance Industries, focused on the people whose support had helped make the listing possible.

He began his address by expressing gratitude to the millions who had believed in Jio and contributed to its growth.

Anant compared the ringing of the stock exchange bell to a temple bell, explaining that business was a form of worship for him. He said the fruits of that effort should be shared, adding that Jio was now being shared with India.

He also spoke about the bond between himself and his siblings, describing them as three people united by one purpose: honouring the family's dreams and continuing its work.

Anant linked the group's future ambitions to the values passed down through generations, including Dhirubhai Ambani's vision, Kokilaben Ambani's blessings, Mukesh Ambani's guidance and Nita Ambani's emphasis on humility and care.

Mukesh Ambani appeared visibly emotional as his children spoke at the listing ceremony. He was seen wiping tears from his eyes while listening to their reflections on Jio's growth, the family's legacy and the responsibilities that come with the company's next phase.

Speech by Shri Anant Ambani, Director, Jio Platforms, at the listing ceremony of JPL IPO https://t.co/KiShhOhJnV

— Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 28, 2026

The entire Ambani family, including members of the younger generation, rang the exchange bell as the clock struck 10 am.

For the family, the listing marked both a business milestone and a moment to reflect on the journey that brought Jio from an ambitious digital initiative to a major telecommunications and technology platform.

Welcome to the listing ceremony of Jio Platforms Limited

https://t.co/wxkVYPM1m0

— Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 28, 2026

Akash's message was clear: Jio's next phase will focus on widening access to technology, creating opportunities and strengthening India's position in the global digital economy.

The company now faces the task of turning that ambition into sustained growth while meeting the expectations of its new public shareholders.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bihar Horror: Husband Attacks Wife With Scissors 170 Times Over Suspicion of Affair, Arrested for Murder Attempt

Hrishikesh Damodar — Tue, 03 Nov 2026 00:09:05 +0530

In a shocking and horrifying incident that took place in Bihar’s Bhojpur district of Ara, a wife was allegedly attacked by her husband with scissors following a suspicion that she had an affair with her elder brother-in-law.

The incident took place late Saturday, October 31, in the Badi Mathiya area, falling under the jurisdiction of the Town police station in Ara. The picture has gone viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), where the 26-year-old victim, identified as Rakhi Devi, was seen with stitches around her face and reportedly recovering in a medical care facility following the brutal attack.

The victim and her husband, identified as Pankaj Kumar Thakur, have been married since 2019, and the couple has two children, three-year-old Abhiraj and two-year-old Pari. Reportedly, the woman’s family members revealed that the couple has been experiencing marital struggles due to the accused’s persistent jealousy and baseless accusations regarding her character.

Also Read: He Was Hit, But Didn't Fight Back: Delhi Road Rage Video Shows Man Attacking Thar

How Did the Shocking Incident Unfold in Bihar?

Badi Mathiya area, which is located in the Town police station area of Ara, became the scene of a horrific attack around 2 am on Saturday night. The victim was allegedly sleeping when her husband mounted a brutal, unprovoked assault following a heated argument over a mobile phone dispute.

According to reports, Pankaj accused Rakhi (also known as Nikita Devi) of having an extramarital affair with his brother Raja Babu and alleged that she had tampered with her mobile phone. Despite her father interfering to verify the phone and clear her name, Pankaj remained unconvinced.

In an uncontrollable fit of rage, Pankaj, according to the victim, jumped on her like ‘an animal’, grabbed a pair of scissors, and stabbed her repeatedly over 170 times across her face, neck, back, and arms until she collapsed unconscious. Her cries were heard by her family, who immediately took her to the hospital in a critical condition.

A 26-year-old woman, Rakhi, was stabbed more than 170 times with scissors by her husband in Ara, Bihar, during a 20-minute attack.

Her husband suspected her of having an affair with his elder brother, while she accused him of having an affair with another woman from their village.

The couple had a love marriage.

https://t.co/tbh7Z3hiDO

— Sanjay Singh (@HeySanjaySingh) November 2, 2026

Rakhi Devi was reportedly bleeding across her body, with severe injuries to her head, neck, face, and back. The attack was so brutal that the victim had to The attack was so brutal that the victim had to undergo a three-hour surgery conducted by Dr. Vikash Singh.

Devi was reportedly admitted to a private clinic in Ara, where she is undergoing treatment under surgeon Dr Vikash Singh. She was initially taken to Ara Sadar Hospital, but doctors referred her to Patna.

Dr Vikash Singh Details Rakhi’s Critical Condition and Life-Saving Emergency Surgery

Dr Vikash Singh, who is treating Rakhi Devi at the private hospital in Patna, detailed her severe condition upon arrival and the multi-hour operation required to stabilize her.

Speaking to the Times of India (TOI), Vikas stated that the victim had 150 stitches across her body after being severely stabbed, adding that the life-saving procedure was challenging given that she needed rare O-negative blood, which was extremely difficult to procure on short notice.

“On her neck and the surrounding area alone, there were more than 70 stab wounds, 30 to 40 wounds on her back, and about 15 to 20 wounds near her breast/chest. I have rarely come across such gruesome stabbing injuries in any patient. It took me more than three hours of surgery to save her life," Dr. Vikas said.

“Saving her life was very challenging. She needed O-negative blood, which is extremely rare to find immediately. However, we somehow managed to procure O-negative blood for transfusion, as she had suffered profuse bleeding after being severely stabbed. It is by the grace of God that she has survived such a gruesome attack," she added.

Meanwhile, accused husband Pankaj Kumar Thakur has been arrested by Bhojpur police and has been charged with attempted murder following a formal complaint filed by the victim’s family.

As per the official statement by the Bhojpur SP’s office, it was revealed that Pankaj intended to kill his wife by stabbing her with scissors and a knife.

Also Read: TDP MP Provides Ambulance to Remote Tribal Hamlet After Viral Incident

Namma Metro Pink Line Gets Safety Nod: How Bengaluru Commuters Could Benefit

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 22:10:29 +0530

Bengaluru commuters battling daily traffic jams may soon get some relief as the Namma Metro Pink Line has received safety clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) for its elevated section. The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has completed work on the stretch and is awaiting an inauguration date before opening it to the public. Minister Krishna Byre Gowda shared the update on X, formerly Twitter, saying the state government was ready to launch the route once the Centre confirms the date.

What Did Minister Krishna Byre Gowda Say?

Byre Gowda said the government was pleased to receive the CMRS safety clearance for the Pink Line’s elevated section after sustained efforts.

He added that the state government was ready to open the stretch for public use as soon as the Centre provides an inauguration date. The state has already written to the Union government requesting that a date be fixed.

The minister said the government was looking forward to improving public transport by expanding the Namma Metro network.

Why Does CMRS Clearance Matter?

The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety conducts inspections before a metro line can begin commercial passenger operations. These checks cover key safety and operational requirements, including:

Track alignment, signalling and the electrical traction system.
Passenger safety measures, emergency arrangements and platform facilities.
Trial run results and compliance with the required safety standards.

The clearance means the elevated section has passed the necessary safety checks. However, the formal inauguration and the start of passenger services are still awaited.

Relief For Bannerghatta Road Commuters

The Pink Line will cover 21.3 km between Kalena Agrahara (Gottigere) and Nagawara, with both elevated and underground sections.

BMRCL has completed the civil work on the elevated stretch between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere. This is the section that has now received safety clearance.

Once passenger services begin, the route is expected to improve connectivity for commuters travelling around Bannerghatta Road, the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB), JP Nagar and Jayadeva Hospital.

The line will also make it easier for passengers to interchange with the Yellow Line at Jayadeva station, improving connections across the city’s metro network.

When Will The Pink Line Open?

BMRCL and the state government have written to the Union government seeking an inauguration date. The stretch is expected to be formally launched in the presence of the Prime Minister or Union ministers once the Centre confirms the schedule.

According to the update, passenger services will begin the day after the inauguration. Until the date is announced, commuters will have to wait for the elevated section to open for public use.

24-Carat Gold Rises Rs 500 To Rs 1,42,500: Why Are Gold Prices Rising Again Ahead Of Diwali?

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 20:30:19 +0530

Gold prices in Delhi rose by Rs 500 to Rs 1,42,500 per 10 grams on Monday, November 2, as jewellers and retailers increased purchases ahead of Diwali. Silver remained unchanged at Rs 1,86,000 per kg. The recovery followed a sharp October correction.

Gold prices recovered slightly in Delhi on Monday, November 2, as jewellers and retailers increased purchases ahead of Diwali. The price of 99.9% pure gold (24 carat) rose by Rs 500 to Rs 1,42,500 per 10 grams, recovering some of the losses suffered during a sharp correction in October.

Silver prices, however, remained unchanged at Rs 1,86,000 per kilogram, inclusive of all taxes, according to local traders. The recovery in gold came as festive demand provided support to domestic prices, while the rupee's weakness against the US dollar made imported bullion more expensive.

Despite Monday's gains, both precious metals remain under pressure following their steep declines last month. Market experts believe prices could remain volatile as investors monitor global economic developments, crude oil prices and expectations surrounding US monetary policy.

Silver price today: Rates remain unchanged

Unlike gold, silver prices remained steady in the national capital on Monday.

The white metal was trading at Rs 1,86,000 per kilogram, inclusive of all taxes. This comes after a steep correction in October, during which silver lost Rs 46,000 per kg from its September 30 price of Rs 2,32,000.

The decline in silver was significantly sharper than that seen in gold, reflecting the volatility in precious metal markets.

In international markets, spot silver gained more than 2% to reach USD 50.25 per ounce on Monday, indicating a recovery in global trading.

Gold of 99.9% purity closed at Rs 1,42,500 per 10 grams on Monday, compared with Rs 1,42,000 on Saturday.

The increase comes after a significant correction in October, when gold prices fell by Rs 7,300 per 10 grams from the September 30 level of Rs 1,49,300.

According to market participants, increased buying by jewellers and retailers ahead of Diwali helped the yellow metal recover some of its lost value. A weaker rupee also supported domestic gold prices by increasing the cost of imported bullion.

Gaurav Garg, Head of Research at brokerage firm Lemonn, said gold attempted a recovery after the sharp selling seen towards the end of October. However, he noted that elevated crude oil prices continued to weigh on precious metals.

Gold also witnessed a recovery in global markets on Monday. Spot gold gained USD 24.18, or nearly 1%, to trade at USD 3,899.73 per ounce.

The recovery followed a sharp decline on Friday, when international gold prices plunged nearly 4% to USD 3,875.55 per ounce, their lowest level in more than a year.

Jateen Trivedi, Vice President and Research Analyst for Commodity and Currency at LKP Securities, said spot gold had recovered towards USD 3,900 per ounce.

However, investor sentiment remained cautious amid expectations of higher interest rates and uncertainty surrounding the US election outcome on November 3.

Investors are also closely watching the outlook for US monetary policy, as interest-rate expectations can influence demand for non-interest-bearing assets such as gold.

Gold futures also recorded gains on Monday amid fresh buying by market participants.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), the December gold contract rose by Rs 281, or 0.2%, to Rs 1,38,766 per 10 grams. The contract recorded a business turnover of 2,497 lots.

Analysts attributed the increase to fresh positions created by traders amid firm spot demand. In New York, gold futures gained 0.83% to USD 3,906.81 per ounce.

Meanwhile, crude oil prices fell around 4% following reports that US President Donald Trump was willing to give diplomacy another chance to resolve tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Praveen Singh, Head of Commodities at Mirae Asset Sharekhan, expects gold prices to consolidate in the near term. However, he cautioned that further weakness cannot be ruled out as tensions in West Asia continue and international gold remains below the USD 4,000-per-ounce mark.

Monday's recovery offers some relief after October's steep correction. However, market volatility remains a key factor, and prices could move in either direction depending on global developments.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vande Bharat Sleeper Cuts Bengaluru-Mumbai Travel Time By 6 Hours, But Tickets Cost Up To 96% More

Divya Danu — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 21:41:27 +0530

The Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper began commercial operations on November 2, promising to complete the journey in 16 hours and 10 minutes, nearly six hours faster than other trains. However, its fares are considerably higher.

The new Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper train promises to cut travel time by almost six hours. However, passengers will have to pay considerably more for the faster overnight journey, with fares in some classes nearly double those of other trains on the route.

Flagged off by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on November 1, the train began its commercial operations from Mumbai on November 2. It is being promoted as the fastest train on the Bengaluru-Mumbai route, covering the distance in 16 hours and 10 minutes.

Brand new Vande Bharat Sleeper At CSMT Mumbai for its first commerical run today towards SMVT Bengaluru. Looks almost exactly like what was proposed in its render. Can't wait to get aboard a month later https://t.co/llZNxPqN9M

— ஆதிஸ்வரன் கோபால் (@_adish_in) November 2, 2026

Vande Bharat Sleeper Express between Bengaluru and Mumbai flagged off @RailMinIndia @AshwiniVaishnaw @SWRRLY https://t.co/o1M5z50Y92

— ChristinMathewPhilip (@ChristinMP_) November 1, 2026

Despite its higher fares, the service has received a strong initial response. All classes are reportedly fully booked, with passengers being placed on waiting lists for the next couple of weeks.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper has three accommodation classes, with fares considerably higher than those of existing trains connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai.

A passenger travelling between the two cities will have to pay Rs 2,810 for AC 3 Tier, Rs 3,630 for AC 2 Tier and Rs 4,450 for AC 1 Tier.

Compared with other trains on the route, its AC 3 Tier fare is around 60–96 per cent higher. The difference is approximately 65–78 per cent in AC 2 Tier and 20–30 per cent in AC 1 Tier.

The Coimbatore-Mumbai LTT Express (Train No. 11014), one of the fastest existing services on this route, takes around 21 hours and 55 minutes to complete the journey from Bengaluru to Mumbai.

Its fares are Rs 1,435 for AC 3 Tier, Rs 2,045 for AC 2 Tier and Rs 3,425 for AC 1 Tier. This means passengers pay significantly less than they would for the new Vande Bharat Sleeper.

The Ajmer Express takes approximately 22 hours to cover a similar distance. Its AC 3 Tier ticket costs Rs 1,510, while AC 2 Tier and AC 1 Tier tickets cost Rs 2,155 and Rs 3,610, respectively.

Even the premium Humsafar Express is cheaper in AC 3 Tier. Its fare is Rs 1,725, compared with Rs 2,810 on the Vande Bharat Sleeper, making the latter nearly 63 per cent more expensive.

The biggest advantage of the new train is the time it saves. Most other trains connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai take around 22 hours or longer to complete the journey of more than 1,100 km.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper covers the same distance in just 16 hours and 10 minutes, saving passengers almost six hours.

Safety at the forefront, comfort at every step!

The #Bengaluru–#Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper combines advanced safer technologies with a modern travel experience.

#VandeBharat_Sleeper

@SWRRLY @RailMinIndia @PIBBengaluru https://t.co/zul2NcIhS9

— DRM Mysuru (@DrmMys) November 1, 2026

Hon’ble MR Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw will flag off the Bengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, strengthening rail connectivity between two major economic hubs.

#VandeBharat_Sleeper https://t.co/ML5TmjSd2A

— UMB Division NR (@drm_umb) November 1, 2026

This makes it an option for those who want to travel overnight and reach their destination the following day without spending as much time on the train.

Officials said around 22 trains operate between Bengaluru and Mumbai or their nearby railway stations. The new service is expected to provide another travel option for passengers on this busy route.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has previously defended the higher fares of premium train services, including Vande Bharat trains.

In a written reply in the Lok Sabha in March 2025, he said that ticket prices were linked to the facilities available on different trains and that Indian Railways operated services to meet the needs of different passenger groups.

"The fares of various trains/classes are based on the facilities provided in these trains," Vaishnaw said.

He also stated that the evaluation and rationalisation of passenger fares, including those of Vande Bharat trains, was a continuous process.

According to the Railway Ministry, the new train will establish an important overnight rail connection between the two major cities. It will also connect several important stations across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

The wait is now over! The CSMT Mumbai - SMVT Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper Express is all set to take passengers on a comfortable journey.

Regular services commence from 2nd November 2026, with bookings now open at all PRS counters and on the IRCTC website. Passengers can also book unreserved tickets through the UTS system and use the RailOne app for convenient ticket booking.

#VandeBharat_Sleeper #CentralRailway #IndianRailways #Mumbai #Bengaluru

— Central Railway (@Central_Railway) November 1, 2026

The wait is now over! The CSMT Mumbai - SMVT Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper Express is all set to take passengers on a comfortable journey. Regular services commence from 2nd November 2026, with bookings now open at all PRS counters and on the IRCTC website. Passengers can also book unreserved tickets through the UTS system and use the RailOne app for convenient ticket booking. #VandeBharat_Sleeper #CentralRailway #IndianRailways #Mumbai #Bengaluru

— DRM Mumbai CR (@drmmumbaicr) November 1, 2026

The train will stop at Anantapur, Guntakal, Raichur, Yadgir, Wadi, Kalaburagi, Solapur, Pune and Kalyan, among other stations along its route.

The Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper will depart from Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru (SMVT) at 7.45 pm and reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai, at 11.55 am the following day.

For the return journey, it will leave CSMT at 8.10 pm and arrive at SMVT Bengaluru at 12 noon the next day.

The service will operate six days a week. It will not run on Mondays from Bengaluru and Tuesdays from Mumbai.

The Railway Ministry said the overnight service would give passengers an additional convenient option and improve access to commercial, educational and regional centres along the route.

(With inputs from agencies)

Blindfolded Between Peaks: The Deadly Reality of Flying India's Pilgrimage Routes

Girish Linganna — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 19:26:33 +0530

Arun Salunke, Prathapa, Shankar Gowda, Sudheer K. and H.S. Nataraja set out from Karnataka as friends on a pilgrimage. On October 30, somewhere near Joshimath in Uttarakhand, they died together, along with the man entrusted with flying them home, Captain Himanshu Sabharwal of Delhi. The grief belongs first to their families. But the question that follows belongs to the whole country: could better machines, sharper weather information and firmer rules have kept that helicopter in the air?

The facts so far are brief. The aircraft was a small single-engine AS350B3, registration VT-HCX, operated by Trans Bharat Aviation. According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, it lifted off from Badrinath at 1.14 pm carrying five passengers and one pilot. The DGCA, India's aviation regulator, sent a team for an initial assessment, and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, the agency that probes air crashes, has taken up the inquiry. Investigators will need to answer three things: what equipment was on board and working, what weather picture the pilot had, and whether any alert or decision might have changed the ending.

Those questions matter because the Himalayas punish small errors. Flying over Bengaluru or Delhi, a pilot has a flat horizon and room to recover. Between mountain ridges, there are narrow valleys, winds that shift without warning, clouds that roll in within minutes, and often no space to turn around. A helicopter can be in perfect mechanical health and still be in mortal danger the moment its pilot loses sight of the slopes.

Consider what happens when cloud swallows the view. A pilot threading between peaks navigates by eye, using the ground, the hills and the skyline as anchors. Remove those anchors and the brain struggles to tell where the aircraft truly is. One can feel level and safe while drifting steadily towards a rock face.

Thin air adds a second trap. Rotor blades fly by shoving air downward; the heavier the air, the easier the lift. High up, the air is sparse, so the blades must work much harder for the same result, and hot afternoons thin it further. Add passengers, luggage and fuel, and the power left in reserve can shrink to almost nothing. Then come the winds. Air pouring over a ridge can plunge downward on the far side like water over a weir, pressing a helicopter towards the ground. If the pilot lacks height or spare engine power, there may be no way out.

Technology cannot flatten mountains, but it can give a pilot precious seconds of foresight. A Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System, or HTAWS, pairs satellite positioning with a stored map of the terrain and shouts a warning, on screen and aloud, when a hillside lies ahead, giving time to climb or turn while power and space remain. Synthetic Vision goes further, painting a computer-drawn landscape of valleys and obstacles on the cockpit display even when the real one is hidden by cloud, much like a three-dimensional map that never fogs over. It sharpens awareness, though it does not make bad weather safe.

Other safeguards work before and after the flight. Automated weather stations and digital feeds deliver current readings of wind, rain, visibility and cloud, while cameras along mountain corridors show whether a valley is open before anyone enters it; sometimes the wisest technology is simply the decision to wait. Health and Usage Monitoring Systems, or HUMS, listen to the helicopter's vibrations, tracking the engine, gearbox and spinning parts for the faint tremor that precedes a failure, so engineers can intervene on the ground. Satellite tracking sends the aircraft's position to a monitoring centre at regular intervals; it cannot stop a crash, but it tells rescuers where to look.

India has already adopted some of these for Char Dham flights, the high-altitude pilgrimage circuit that includes Badrinath, with satellite tracking, automated weather observation, designated GPS routes and limits on aircraft weight. Yet in August 2026 the government told Parliament that HTAWS and HUMS were not compulsory on the single-engine helicopters that typically fly these routes. Whether that gap should remain is now a pressing question. Manufacturers, meanwhile, are moving ahead: Airbus fits its Helionix digital cockpit to several modern models, combining flight data, maps, terrain alerts and, where fitted, synthetic vision, and is developing camera-assisted guidance for difficult approaches. Such tools lighten a pilot's burden, though availability depends on the aircraft type and certification.

Equipment alone is not enough. Helicopters must stay grounded when weather dips below approved limits. Pilots need room to turn back before a cloud-filled valley closes behind them. Operators must work out passenger weight, fuel and available power for the real altitude and temperature of the day. Regular mountain training, honest simulator practice and cancellation decisions made free of commercial pressure complete the picture.

No device promises that an aircraft will never fall. But a well-equipped machine, a disciplined crew and the courage to say no can shrink the odds dramatically. The truest memorial to the six who died above Joshimath would be a Himalayan helicopter service that never has to count its dead again.

(Girish Linganna is an award-winning science communicator and a Defence, Aerospace & Geopolitical Analyst. He is the Managing Director of ADD Engineering Components India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany.)

Kerala: Out-of-Control Car Runs Over Pedestrian's Foot in Kannur, Nearby Cops Act Instantly (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 15:01:26 +0530

In what was a shocking lapse of vehicle control near Mekkunnu in Kannur, a speeding car lost control, ran over a pedestrian's foot, and smashed into two parked motorcycles before coming to a halt on Sunday, November 1.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), a speeding car was seen losing control and veering off the roadside onto the pedestrian path, where a food delivery bike was parked. The woman in a burqa was walking when the vehicle knocked her down and ran over her foot before crashing hard into two parked two-wheelers.

The station police officers, who were nearby performing routine duties, responded within seconds of the crash, rushing to assist the victim and apprehend the driver on the spot, preventing any attempt to flee and ensuring immediate assistance to the injured pedestrian.

Also Read: Woman Found Dead In Haryana Hotel Room, Man Who Checked In With Her Missing

How Did the Incident Happen?

Panoor, which is located in the Kannur district of Kerala and comes under the jurisdiction of the Panoor police station, witnessed the sudden accident along the busy Mekkunnu stretch.

According to local reports, the car was moving at a high speed when the driver lost control while attempting to navigate, causing the car to veer wildly onto the paved pedestrian walkway, where the food delivery bike was parked. The car struck the woman along the walkaway, when the car struck her and ran over her foot bfore ramming into the parked motorcycles on the side of the road with significant force.

The police officers, who were nearby performing routine patrol duty at the Mekkunnu junction, immediately rushed to the scene and helped the woman to get up, and the driver was apprehended on the spot, ensuring he could not flee the scene after the crash.

Breaking news : in Panoor, Kannur! Car loses control near Mekkunnu and hits pedestrians. Two people injured.

Crazy coincidence — Kerala Police were already at the spot, so Action took in seconds.

CCTV footage is out.

#Accident #CCTV #Panoor #Kannur #Kerala https://t.co/Ux48LuSfvh

— Nambiar Adarsh Narayanan P V (@Adarsh4BJP) November 1, 2026

Reportedly, alongside the woman, another pedestrian sustained injuries caused by the collision as the car veered off the road into the pedestrian zone. Both injured pedestrians were taken to the nearby hospital for treatment.

The driver was apprehended on the spot by police officers stationed nearby, preventing any attempt to flee the scene.

What Caused the Accident?

Panoor police station, where initial enquiries revealed that the driver lost control of the vehicle due to a sudden lapse while negotiating the stretch, mistakenly stepping on the accelerator instead of the brake pedal.

Following the accident, the vehicle, bearing registration KL 77 F 7506, has been seized by the police, and a case has been registered against the driver for rash and negligent driving under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Motor Vehicles Act.

Reportedly, there was no malfunction in the vehicle's braking mechanism; rather, human error led directly to the loss of control, causing the sudden acceleration onto the pedestrian pathway.

Also Read: Leopard Walks Into UP Farmhouse at 4 am, Pet Dog Refuses To Let It Pass

WATCH: Chaos at Bengaluru Airport as Family Demands Probe After Chicken Found in Veg Biryani, Video Goes Viral

Hrishikesh Damodar — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 19:51:52 +0530

An eatery at Bengaluru Airport witnessed chaotic and tense scenes after a family traveling from Varanasi discovered chicken pieces in their vegetarian biryani order at Terminal 1 on Saturday, October 31.

In a video shared by an X (formerly Twitter) user, Piyush Agrawal, a family member can be seen holding up a plate of biryani and showing small pieces of chicken mixed into what was ordered as a strictly vegetarian meal at the Taste of India outlet near Gates 16 and 17 of the Kempegowda International Airport.

The user, who is part of the family travelling to Varanasi from Bengaluru, claimed that the outlet admitted to the mistake after airport security and floor management stepped in to mediate the situation.

Also Read: Hyderabad Viral Video: Zepto Delivery Agent Falls Into Open Drain With Bike, Dramatic Rescue Caught On Camera

How Did the Family Find Chicken in Their Veg Meal?

Piyush Agrawal and his family were reportedly travelling from Bengaluru to Varanasi and had stopped at the airport outlet for a quick bite before boarding their flight. However, after ordering vegetarian biryani to share, they noticed small, distinct pieces of chicken mixed into the rice just a few bites in.

In his first Tweet, Piyush stated that the family strictly follows a vegetarian diet, which made the incident particularly painful and hurt their ‘religious sentiments’, adding that the restaurant manager and chef admitted that the food served to them indeed had a mix of chicken. He even shared two food bills that showed ‘Veg Dum Biryani’.

URGENT | BENGALURU AIRPORT T1 At Taste of India, Bengaluru Airport T1 (Gate 16–17), our family ordered VEG BIRYANI, clearly mentioned on the bill, but we were served NON-VEGETARIAN FOOD. We are a strictly vegetarian family, and even children unknowingly consumed it. This has caused severe distress and hurt our religious sentiments. Videos of our conversation with the restaurant manager & chef are attached. They also confirmed the food was having chicken. Bill and other evidence are also attached. We request FSSAI, Bengaluru Airport and concerned authorities to urgently investigate, check CCTV/order records and take strict action. @fssaiindia @BLRAirport @AirSewaIndia @jagograhakjago @PMOIndia @CMofKarnataka @DKShivakumar @JoshiPralhad @PrashantKej @AakashBansal94

— Piyush Agrawal (@PiyushpaviA) October 30, 2026

https://t.co/Z1VyhIFxEx

— Piyush Agrawal (@PiyushpaviA) October 30, 2026

In another tweet, Piyush issued a clarification, stating that there were only tiny pieces of chicken scattered inside the dish and the family was unaware that the dish contained non-vegetarian pieces until after a few bites were eaten. He also claimed that the full amount was paid and they were not seeking any refund from the restaurant despite the error,

One Clarification -

Full Non Veg Biryani not received, 3-4 chicken particles found in veg biryani served to us. It was accepted by resturant manager also. Non veg particles were not present at starting and when found we confronted resturant manager. And we since we are pure veg, we faced too much mental harrassment at the airport. Also full bill was paid by us and no refund was taken by us. Anyone can check with resturant.

— Piyush Agrawal (@PiyushpaviA) October 31, 2026

Piyush and his family demanded an official investigation by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India and Kempegowda International Airport management to review kitchen prep logs and CCTV footage.

The X user also shared a clarification, stating that the family had found only tiny pieces of chicken in the biryani rather than a full chicken piece.

Netizens Debate Family's Complaint Over Chicken in Veg Biryani

The chaotic scenes at Bengaluru Airport over chicken allegedly being served in vegetarian biryani sparked a heated debate on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), with users divided over the family's complaint and choice of restaurant.

Taking to their X handles, many users questioned the family’s decision to order veg food from a restaurant that serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, while others asked whether the family had consumed most of the biryani before discovering chicken pieces inside the rice.

Another section of users defends the family’s complaint, arguing that the restaurants must ensure that there is no mix-up between veg and non-veg orders, while some point out that customers have the right to receive exactly what they pay for, regardless of whether an outlet serves both types of food.

@PiyushpaviA You ate the full biryani, including the chicken, stripping into the bone,and then show the leftover bone to complain?

— rasarasa (@karmauntold) October 30, 2026

If you're ordering vegetarian food from an outlet that also serves non-vegetarian food, you're being foolish. You may be strictly following your Dharam and religious beliefs, but the outlet doesn't necessarily care about them. They may use the same utensils, cooking surfaces, or equipment for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. They're not going to maintain separate utensils just to respect your beliefs.

So, if you're serious about maintaining vegetarian food practices, don't order from outlets that serve both. Choose a pure vegetarian outlet instead. Your beliefs deserve consistency, not just blind trust in a restaurant's menu.

— Interior Only (@interior_only) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA why do you guys even eat at outlets that serve non-veg in the first place? if you have such a big problem with it, isn't it just common sense to eat at purely vegetarian restaurants?

— vish (@AngelWithaDih) October 30, 2026

@PiyushpaviA How did it take so much of eating to realise it was non veg?

— Abdullah Deewana (@JeanDmello) October 31, 2026

I believe the customer also needs to take responsibility for their choice. If vegetarian food is a strict requirement for your family, why choose a restaurant that serves both veg and non-veg? Mistakes can happen anywhere. Choosing a pure-vegetarian outlet would have avoided this risk in the first place.

— AKSHAY JAIN (@Akshayj23542356) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA How could you not realise you were eating bones in the vegetable

— Anu (@Atreya534) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA Make them pay through nose, they should be forced to pay lakhs for violating customers sensitive food choice, only then will they learn lessons! Dont leave them!

— Aniruddha (@aNr1857) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA Where is the conversation with the chef and manager in the video? I don’t see any such interaction. All I can hear is you people talking.

— Madhuri Adnal (@madhuriadnal) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA Which is why I tell all the strict vegetarians i know, you should never eat at a restaurant which serves both Veg and Non veg food. It's practitcally impossible to keep it totally clean, untouched and is highly prone to human errors. I eat at pure veg locations only.

— Prateek Bohra (@iPrateekBohra) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA Ohh I have taken food from this place many times, thinking it was veg always

— Sanchit Goyal (@sanchitg14) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA Strictly vegitarian people better stick to strictly pure vegitarian restaurants or strictly cooked home food.. not trying to defend i decipline which is a problem in india.. but mistakes can happen..

— Eeswar (@5pints2sleep) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA I am also a vegetarian and I strictly do not go to place where they serve both and if ever they do I accept these mistakes are bound to happen and move on. Faltu me kyoon public ka time pass kar rahe ho. Veg ho to get your food from strictly veg places.

— Deepak (@Deepak924368) October 31, 2026

@PiyushpaviA bro finished the entire plate to discover there were some chicken pieces, interestingly his religious sentiments got hurt first not stomach.

— Mixtape (@Mixtape_Xtweet) October 31, 2026

Meanwhile, Bengaluru airport authorities or the outlet has released an official statement with regard to the allegations. However, the airport security personnel and floor managers had to step in to de-escalate the situation and address the passenger's immediate concerns.

Also Read: Cockroach Milk as Superfood? Elon Musk Calls It ‘Gross’ as Study Explores Its Potential

Kerala Heat Alert: KSDMA Issues Safety Guidelines As Temperatures Rise

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 21:54:57 +0530

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued safety guidelines for the public as temperatures rise across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that temperatures in isolated places could be 3 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal between October 28 and November 1. High temperatures can cause serious health problems, including sunstroke, sunburn and dehydration. Authorities have urged people to follow the safety guidelines to protect themselves and others from the effects of extreme heat.

Safety Guidelines

Protect Yourself From The Heat
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight between 11 AM and 3 PM.
Drink plenty of clean water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Avoid drinks that can contribute to dehydration during the day, including alcohol, coffee, tea and carbonated soft drinks.
Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured cotton clothes.
Wear footwear when going outdoors. Carry an umbrella or wear a hat for protection from the sun.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Drink ORS solution and buttermilk (sambharam) to stay hydrated.

Fire Safety And Forest Precautions

Markets, buildings and dumping yards are at a higher risk of catching fire and allowing it to spread. Authorities must conduct fire safety audits and take the necessary precautions. People living near these areas and business owners should remain alert.

Extreme heat can also increase the risk of forest fires. Tourists and people living near forest areas must avoid activities that could start fires and strictly follow instructions issued by the Forest Department.

Safety Measures For Schools And Children

Educational institutions must ensure that students have access to clean drinking water and that classrooms have proper ventilation. Examination halls must also have adequate drinking water, especially during exam periods.

Schools and parents should pay special attention to children's safety. Schools should avoid or reschedule assemblies and other events that expose children to direct sunlight. During excursions, schools must ensure that children are not exposed to extreme heat between 11 AM and 3 PM.

Panchayat authorities and Anganwadi staff must make suitable arrangements to protect children at Anganwadi centres from the heat.

Special Care For Vulnerable Groups

Bedridden patients, older people, pregnant women, children, persons with disabilities and people with existing illnesses should avoid direct sunlight between 11 AM and 3 PM. These groups are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and require special care.

Companies must take steps to protect online food delivery workers who use two-wheelers during peak afternoon hours. They should provide heat-protective clothing and allow workers to take short rest breaks when needed.

Journalists and police personnel on duty should use umbrellas and avoid direct sunlight during these hours. Their departments must provide drinking water to help prevent dehydration.

Public Events, Travel And Outdoor Work

Organisers of public events and meetings must provide sufficient drinking water and shaded areas for attendees. Meetings should preferably not be scheduled between 11 AM and 3 PM.

Travellers should take regular rest breaks and carry drinking water. Construction workers, agricultural labourers, street vendors and others engaged in strenuous outdoor work should adjust their working hours and take adequate rest.

Protect Animals And Conserve Water

Do not allow cattle to graze under the afternoon sun or leave pets tied up outdoors in the heat. Ensure that animals and birds have access to sufficient drinking water. Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.

Use water carefully and avoid wastage. Make the most of opportunities to harvest rainwater when it rains, and carry a small bottle of drinking water when going out.

If you feel unwell, rest immediately and seek medical assistance. The public should also remain alert to official warnings issued by the IMD and KSDMA and follow their instructions.

UP SHOCKER: Youth Brutally Beaten and Tied Up in Shahjahanpur Over Unproven Theft Allegations (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 18:50:11 +0530

In a shocking yet disturbing incident from Uttar Pradesh's Shahjahanpur, a youth was allegedly tied up and brutally beaten by two men after he was suspected of theft in a local village market area on Sunday, November 1.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), a youth was seen beaten by two men in front of the public standing silently or filming the violent act instead of stepping in. The young boy, who was reportedly between 12 and 13 years of age, was seen pleading with the men to spare him, but the attackers refused to stop, ignoring his tearful requests while continuing to beat him relentlessly.

The men acted with extreme cruelty following their suspicion of theft and brutally thrashed the minor on the spot without verifying the facts or informing local law enforcement.

Also Read: UP Priest Lured Girls With 'Prasad', Secretly Filmed Obscene Videos, Sold Them Abroad

How Did the Incident Happen?

Shahjahanpur’s market area witnessed an act of vigilante violence when the 12-to-13-year-old minor was cornered by two men while passing through the market area.

According to local reports, the 12-to-13-year-old minor was cornered by two men while passing through the market area. The youth was reportedly accused of theft, following which the two men allegedly tied him up and assaulted him in public. Despite no evidence of theft, the boy was mercilessly beaten by the men.

The youth was seen crying and begging for mercy, but the attackers continued to hit him repeatedly, showing no restraint despite his pleas to stop, and the continuous assault left him unconscious as he fell to the ground. The incident took place in public view, with several onlookers either watching or recording the assault instead of intervening.

A child was brutally beaten, thrown to the ground and tied up with a rope in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, over mere suspicion of theft. No stolen goods were recovered.

Taking the law into your own hands and subjecting a child to such brutality is absolutely unacceptable. https://t.co/fhdF1Lh71t

— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) November 1, 2026

The market area of Shahjahanpur is often crowded with people and shoppers during peak hours, yet no member of the public stepped forward to intervene. Shahjahanpur is a vulnerable target due to the high volume of daily footfall.

Taking advantage of the busy environment, the perpetrators restrained the minor and carried out the assault, while bystanders remained passive onlookers. The men who beat him didn’t find any stolen property on the youth and continued the assault purely on suspicion.

Shahjahanpur Police React to Viral Video

Following the video being widely shared across X (formerly Twitter) and other social media platforms, local law enforcement took immediate official cognizance of the matter.

Responding to the viral video in which two men were mercilessly beating the youth allegedly on suspicion of theft, Shahjahanpur Police stated that they have directed an investigation into the matter and will take action against the individuals who were involved in the brutal assault

“In the aforementioned case, the concerned party has been directed to conduct an investigation and take necessary action.” Shahjahanpur Police wrote.

@gharkekalesh उक्त प्रकरण में सम्बन्धित को जांच कर आवश्यक कार्यवाही हेतु निर्देशित किया गया।

— SHAHJAHANPUR POLICE (@shahjahanpurpol) November 1, 2026

However, there has been no official update or information on the action or charges registered against the accused individuals or whether any arrests have been made so far.

It remains to be seen whether police will identify the culprits and take strict legal action against them to prevent such acts of vigilante justice from occurring in the future.

Also Read: Man Offers Milk to Brahmaputra, Then Throws Carton Into River; Video Sparks Outrage (WATCH)

Kerala Vlogger 'Sexually Abuses' Minor Girl Under Guise Of Curing Through Prayers, Held

Shweta Kumari — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 18:07:39 +0530

A 34-year-old vlogger and director of an Islamic academy in Kerala has been arrested for allegedly sexually abusing a 16-year-old girl multiple times after promising to cure her physical ailments through prayers, police said on Sunday. The accused, identified as Mohammed Niyas Jouhari, heads the Habibiyya Islamic Academy in Ochira and hails from Devikulangara in Alappuzha district. A case has been registered against him under various provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

According to news agency PTI, the girl's paternal grandmother had approached Niyas, believing that prayers could help treat the teenager's health problems. Police said the accused allegedly gained the family's confidence by claiming that he could cure the girl's ailments through religious practices.

Police alleged that between 2025 and 2026, Niyas took the minor to different locations and sexually abused her on multiple occasions.

The alleged abuse came to light after the girl gathered the courage to disclose her ordeal to her family. Acting on her complaint, Ochira police registered a case and detained the accused from Karunagappally on Saturday night.

His arrest was formally recorded on Sunday following interrogation, police said.

According to police, Niyas has a significant social media following, with more than one lakh followers across various platforms and over two lakh subscribers on YouTube.

22,000 Diwali Bribe: Gujarat ACB Traps Terminated Livestock Inspector in Gandhinagar Extortion Sting

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 01:02:35 +0530

Gujarat’s Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) caught an outsourced livestock inspector red-handed while reportedly accepting a bribe of INR 22,000 from a cattle rearer in Gandhinagar on October 30.

In a video that went viral on social media, the livestock inspector was seen taking the cash installment from the complainant before the car occupied by ACB officers surrounded him and moved in to apprehend him on the spot. The inspector was seen pleading with officials and explaining himself to them.

Reportedly, four officials inside the vehicle caught the inspector and took him into custody, as seen stepping out of the vehicle and surrounding him to execute the red-handed arrest.

Also Read: Gujarat Mandates Mental Health Support in Secondary Schools for Students

How Did Officials Set the Trap to Catch the Bribe-Taking Inspector?

The trap to catch the livestock inspector, identified as Jaydepsinh Rajput, was not an immediate action, but a carefully planned sting operation executed after the cattle owner lodged a formal complaint with the ACB Police Station in Gandhinagar.

According to a Gujarat Samachar report, officials said the complainant, who runs a cattle-rearing business in Gandhinagar, said Jaydepsinh Rajput threatened to impound his livestock and register a case unless he paid protection money. Rajput initially demanded INR 40,000 as a ‘Diwali Festival Installment’ but later negotiated it down to 22,000.

Refusing to yield to Rajput’s extortion, the cattle-rearer registered a complaint with the Anti-Corruption Bureau, which swiftly arranged a targeted trap behind the garden in Sector 28, Gandhinagar. A team led by Police Inspector M.M. Solanki deployed an unmarked car near the spot to oversee the exchange.

મહાનગરપાલિકા, ગાંધીનગરની સી.એન.સી.ડી. શાખામાં ફરજ બજાવતા આઉટસોર્સ (એજન્સી સબ લિમિટેડ) એલ.આઇ. (લાઇવ સ્ટોક ઇન્સ્પેક્ટર) જયદિપસિંહ રામસિંહ રાજપુત રૂ. ૨૨,૦૦૦/- ની લાંચ લેતા ઝડપાયા.

@sanghaviharsh @PIYUSH_270871 @DeepakMeghani

@InfoGujarat @HARESHM38109376

@BaldevD11469478 https://t.co/Ycgh6quNXa

— ACB Gujarat (@ACBGujarat) October 31, 2026

As soon as Jaydepsinh Rajput was seen taking the bribe in a white envelope, the car with four officials intercepted him and took him into custody on the spot. Although the livestock inspector attempted to explain to the officials, they promptly took him into custody.

The ACB team recovered the alleged 22,000 bribe demanded by Jaydepsinh Rajput in full right after the sting.

The Action Against Jaydepsinh Rajput

Jaydepsinh Rajput was reportedly terminated from his services at Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC), just a day before the ACB officials caught him taking the bribe from the cattle rearer, who filed a complaint against him for extortion.

Reportedly, the municipal corporation stated that Rajput, an outsourced Class III worker in the Cattle Nuisance Control Department (CNCD), had a history of poor performance. The accused was relieved of his duties on October 29 for chronic negligence and failing to effectively address civic complaints regarding stray cattle.

Following the arrest by ACB officials, Jaydepsinh Rajput was charged under the Prevention of Corruption Act, which carries a maximum punishment of up to seven years in prison, alongside formal disciplinary proceedings initiated by civic authorities.

Due to this act, Jaydepsinh Rajput is unlikely to be reinstated into civic services and faces potential blacklisting alongside criminal prosecution under corruption laws.

Also Read: Gujarat Government Grants 15 Day Diwali Parole to 143 Jail Inmates

'He Kept Recording Me': Woman Confronts Man At Bengaluru Metro Station, Almost Nabs Him But He Flees

Divya Danu — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 15:22:34 +0530

A viral video has sparked outrage after a woman said that a man recorded her without consent at Bengaluru's Whitefield-Kadugodi Namma Metro station. Video shows her confronting him and seeking security staff's help in nabbing him, but the man fled.

A woman travelling on Bengaluru's Namma Metro (Karnataka) has alleged that a male passenger recorded her without her consent at Whitefield-Kadugodi Metro Station on Tuesday. The incident led to a confrontation in which she took the man's phone and sought help from Metro security personnel. However, the man snatched his phone back while pretending to show her the recording and fled.

A woman has filed a police complaint alleging that a fellow passenger secretly recorded her while travelling on Namma Metro near Whitefield on Tuesday, October 27. Bengaluru City Police have confirmed that an FIR has been registered and an investigation is underway.

The woman, identified on Instagram as Sowpika, shared videos of the confrontation on social media, drawing attention to passenger privacy and women's safety on public transport.

According to her account, the incident occurred at around 4.30 p.m. near the Whitefield–Kadugodi area. She allegedly noticed a man recording her without her consent and confronted him, repeatedly asking why he was filming her.

Videos shared online show Sowpika asking the man to unlock his phone and show its contents. She also expressed frustration over the alleged recording and clarified that her clothing was not a justification for such behaviour.

Sowpika said she sought assistance from Metro security personnel and attempted to prevent the man from leaving before the matter was addressed. According to her account, she managed to get hold of his phone and handed it to security staff during the confrontation.

However, the man allegedly retrieved the phone and fled before the issue could be resolved. He reportedly apologised during the exchange but did not admit to the alleged recording.

Following the incident, Sowpika said she approached Metro station authorities and lodged a complaint. She initially stated that she had been told the matter would be followed up within seven days.

After videos of the confrontation circulated online, Bengaluru City Police asked her to share the location and her contact details. She later visited Kadugodi Police Station, where an FIR was registered.

In a subsequent social media update, Sowpika thanked the police for their response. She also said investigators had identified a few individuals who resembled the man seen in the footage, although his identity had not been conclusively established in the reports available at the time.

The police are investigating the complaint to establish the circumstances of the incident and identify the person involved. The registration of an FIR does not establish the allegations as proven, and further details are awaited.

The incident has renewed discussion about privacy, women's safety and the handling of complaints on public transport. It has also highlighted the importance of accessible reporting channels and prompt assistance when commuters raise concerns about alleged harassment.

Police have yet to establish the full sequence of events, including the circumstances surrounding the alleged recording and the man's departure from the scene.

Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) October 28, 2026

Bengaluru City Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) and launched an investigation into the incident, according to a response posted by the police on social media.

The incident came to light after the woman shared a video online describing her experience and urging the authorities to take legal action against the man.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sowpika | Travel | Lifestyle (@sowpika)

The video has drawn widespread reactions, with many users praising her for speaking up and questioning the response of Metro security staff.

According to the woman's account, she noticed the man allegedly recording her while she was at the Metro station. She confronted him and took possession of his phone, seeking to establish whether he had recorded her.

She then approached Metro security personnel and asked for their assistance. The woman wanted the alleged recording to be shown to her before the phone was handed over to the security staff.

However, the situation took a different turn when the man allegedly pretended to show her the recording, snatched the phone back and ran away. He was not apprehended at the scene, according to the account shared by the woman.

In the video posted on social media, the man can be seen apologising as the woman moves towards the Metro office to lodge a complaint. Male and female security personnel are also visible during the confrontation. The woman can be heard repeatedly seeking their intervention.

“This guy kept recording me and behaving inappropriately,” she said in the video, explaining why she had confronted him.

The woman later approached Metro station authorities and sought action against the passenger. Her social media post brought the incident to wider public attention.

Bengaluru Police confirm FIR, investigation underway

Following the circulation of the video, Bengaluru City Police said they had taken cognisance of the social media post. The police subsequently confirmed that an FIR had been registered at Kadugodi Police Station.

In a response to the post, DCP Whitefield stated that FIR No. 464/2026 had been registered and that the investigation was underway.

The authorities have not publicly disclosed the identity of the man in the information provided, nor have they shared further details about his whereabouts or whether he has been detained.

Metro officials had also said that a complaint had been received and that staff on duty were looking into the incident to identify the man.

The video has prompted strong reactions, with many users applauding the woman for confronting the passenger and speaking publicly about the incident.

Several commenters said women should not have to defend themselves without effective assistance when they report inappropriate behaviour in public spaces. Some also pointed out that many women may choose not to speak up about similar experiences because they fear embarrassment, confrontation or a lack of support.

A major point of criticism was the apparent inability of security personnel to stop the man from leaving. Users questioned why the passenger was allowed to run away after the woman sought help and repeatedly asked the staff to intervene.

Some commenters tagged Bengaluru City Police and the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation, calling for accountability and stronger safety measures at Metro stations. Others urged the police to track down the man and ensure that appropriate legal action was taken.

The criticism of security staff was based largely on what viewers believed they could see in the video. The full circumstances of the confrontation and the actions taken by individual personnel have not been independently established.

Alongside criticism of the security response, many users praised the woman for confronting the passenger and documenting her experience. Several comments described her actions as courageous and encouraged other women to report inappropriate behaviour rather than remain silent.

Some called for the video to be shared again and again until the man was identified, while some expressed concern about the wider issue of women's safety on public transport and at busy stations.

The incident has renewed online discussion about how complaints of alleged harassment are handled in public places and whether security personnel respond effectively when passengers seek help.

With an FIR now registered, the police investigation is expected to establish the sequence of events and identify the man involved.

Trying To Lose Weight? These 6 Teas May Help Support Your Healthy Daily Routine

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 22:49:13 +0530

From green tea to ginger tea, certain teas play a massive role in helping you lose weight naturally. For lasting results, combine tea with balanced meals, regular exercise, adequate sleep and healthy habits.

Losing weight is not just about eating less or exercising more. Choosing healthier drinks can also help you manage your daily calorie intake. Tea is a popular option because unsweetened tea contains very few calories and provides plant compounds called phytochemicals. However, no tea can make body fat disappear on its own. A balanced diet, regular physical activity and good sleep remain important for healthy, lasting weight loss.

Here are six teas that may support weight management when included in a healthy lifestyle.

Green tea contains catechins, a group of plant compounds with antioxidant properties. One of these is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Green tea also contains caffeine, which can slightly increase energy use in the body.

Some research suggests that the combination of catechins and caffeine may have a small effect on fat metabolism. However, the amount of weight people lose from drinking green tea alone is usually limited. Unsweetened green tea is a good alternative to sugary drinks because it adds very few calories to your diet.

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea made from partially oxidised tea leaves. It falls between green and black tea in terms of processing. It contains polyphenols, including catechins, as well as caffeine.

These compounds have antioxidant properties, and some early research suggests that oolong tea may affect how the body uses energy and breaks down fat. However, more research is needed to establish its effects on long-term weight loss. Drinking it without sugar or sweetened flavourings can help keep your calorie intake low.

Ginger tea is made by steeping fresh ginger slices or ginger pieces in hot water. Ginger contains active compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Some studies suggest that ginger may help with feelings of fullness and certain measures of blood sugar control. However, evidence that ginger tea directly reduces hunger or causes significant weight loss is limited. It can still be a useful, low-calorie drink, especially when prepared without added sugar.

Hibiscus tea is made by steeping dried hibiscus flowers in hot water. It has a naturally tangy taste and a deep red colour. The flowers contain anthocyanins and other plant compounds with antioxidant properties.

Some research suggests that hibiscus preparations may help support healthy blood pressure, although the evidence varies and is not conclusive for every product. There is not enough strong evidence to say that hibiscus tea directly causes weight loss. For a simple drink, steep the dried flowers in hot water and add lemon if you like. Avoid adding too much honey or sugar.

Peppermint tea is prepared by steeping fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water. It is naturally caffeine-free and can be a refreshing alternative to sweetened drinks.

Peppermint may help some people manage indigestion and abdominal discomfort. However, evidence that peppermint tea directly reduces body fat or appetite is limited. Peppermint leaf tea should also not be confused with concentrated peppermint oil, which is used for different purposes. If you experience acid reflux, peppermint may make your symptoms worse.

For a simple version, steep the leaves in hot water and drink the tea without sugar. You can add a little lemon for flavour.

Cinnamon tea is made by steeping a cinnamon stick in hot water. Cinnamon contains plant compounds that have been studied for their possible effects on blood sugar regulation.

Some research suggests that cinnamon may influence blood sugar and insulin-related measures, but the findings are mixed. There is no strong evidence that cinnamon tea directly burns fat or produces substantial weight loss. It can, however, replace high-calorie drinks and help add flavour without relying on sugar.

Drink it without added sweeteners to keep the calorie count low. Avoid consuming large amounts of cinnamon regularly, particularly cassia cinnamon, which can contain coumarin that may harm the liver in high doses.

Can Tea Alone Help You Lose Weight?

Tea can support a weight-management plan, mainly when it replaces sugary drinks and helps reduce your overall calorie intake. Green tea and oolong tea contain caffeine, but their effects on metabolism are modest. Ginger, hibiscus, peppermint and cinnamon teas may offer other benefits, although strong evidence for direct weight loss is lacking.

For lasting results, combine unsweetened tea with balanced meals, regular exercise, enough sleep and consistent healthy habits. If you take medicines or have an existing health condition, check with a healthcare professional before regularly using herbal teas for medicinal purposes.

'She Was Supposed To Be In London': Food Orders Lead Family To Woman's Decomposed Body In Pune Flat

Divya Danu — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 13:36:30 +0530

A 34-year-old woman, Mugdha Deshmukh, who returned to India from London, United Kingdom, without informing her family was found dead inside her rented apartment in Pune, Maharashtra. The body of Mugdha, a native of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, was discovered in a decomposed condition after her family raised concerns over being unable to contact her for several days. Her family had believed she was still pursuing an MBA in London, according to a report by Aaj Tak.

The discovery came after unusual food delivery transactions in her bank statements led her parents to suspect that she had returned to India. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death, and the cause remains unknown.

Family believed Mugdha was studying in London

Mugdha had moved to the UK in July last year to pursue an MBA. She lived alone and also took up part-time jobs while studying. According to police, she regularly remained in touch with her parents through phone calls and messages.

However, her family became worried when she stopped responding to their calls and messages on October 24. Her phone was subsequently found switched off.

Her parents then contacted one of her friends in London to find out if she had heard from Mugdha. The friend reportedly told them that their last communication had been through messages on October 22.

The friend also approached the London police and reported Mugdha missing. However, authorities informed her that Mugdha had left the UK around the end of August.

Food delivery transactions lead family to Pune

As the family tried to establish her whereabouts, they approached Indian authorities and the Indian High Commission for assistance.

Mugdha's father also examined her bank statements and noticed several food delivery transactions between October 8 and 25. Some transactions originated from the Osamanpura area of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, as reported by Aaj Tak.

These transactions raised suspicions that Mugdha was in India rather than London. Police subsequently investigated the transactions and traced her location to the Lodha Belmondo residential complex in Gahunje, Pune.

Police find decomposed body inside rented apartment

A police team reached the apartment where Mugdha was believed to be staying. With the help of a keymaker, officers gained entry and found her body inside the flat.

Senior Inspector Devendra Chavan of Shirgaon Police in Pimpri Chinchwad confirmed the discovery.

Police said there were no visible injury marks on her body. The investigation also revealed that Mugdha had rented the apartment in April but started living there only in August.

Her body was found in a decomposed condition, indicating that she may have died some time before it was discovered. However, the exact time and cause of death have not yet been established.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding her return from the UK and her stay in Pune. Further investigation is underway.

Kerala Priest Gets 7-Year Jail Term For Raping Woman During 'Evil Spirit' Ritual

Shweta Kumari — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 18:27:11 +0530

A priest in Kerala has been sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment for raping a woman after allegedly luring her into a ritual to rid her husband of an evil spirit. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the accused in connection with the case dating back to April 2016.

The Nedumangad Special Court delivered the verdict on Saturday, finding Rajesh, a resident of Venkulam in Edava, guilty of rape under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

According to the prosecution, the accused had asked the woman to attend a special ritual in April 2016, claiming that her husband was being affected by an alleged evil spirit. However, instead of conducting the ritual, Rajesh allegedly sexually assaulted her inside the storeroom of a religious institution.

The prosecution told the court that the assault continued over several days. The woman subsequently lodged a complaint, following which the accused was arrested.

The court further ruled that Rajesh would have to serve an additional year in prison if he failed to pay the Rs 50,000 fine.

The case was heard by Judge A Shahjahan of the Nedumangad Special Court designated to try cases under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

Special Public Prosecutor Sandeep R N appeared on behalf of the prosecution.

Keralam Post Office Horror: Man Attacks Wife, Points Gun at Bystanders Before Suicide

Divya Danu — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 15:18:15 +0530

A man allegedly attacked his wife with an iron rod at a post office in Kuzhithozhu, Keralam, on Friday morning before shooting himself dead with a revolver, police said. The woman, identified as Sreeja, sustained serious head injuries and is undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Kattappana. Her condition is reported to be critical. The deceased man has been identified as Santhosh, Sreeja's husband. Police are investigating the incident, including the circumstances that led to the attack.

Husband attacks wife at post office

The incident took place at around 9.30 am when Sreeja, who works as a temporary postmaster, arrived at the post office to open it for the day.

According to police, Santhosh allegedly approached her from behind and struck her on the head with an iron rod. She suffered serious injuries in the attack and was rushed to a private hospital in Kattappana for treatment.

Man points gun at bystanders before shooting himself

People nearby rushed towards the post office after witnessing the attack. However, Santhosh allegedly pointed his revolver at them and prevented them from approaching.

He subsequently shot himself with the firearm and died at the spot, police said.

Police investigate family dispute angle

Preliminary information suggests that the couple had been involved in frequent disputes over family matters for some time. However, police have not yet established the exact reason behind the attack.

Police personnel and forensic experts reached the post office to examine the scene and collect evidence. The district police chief also visited the location.

Officials said further legal proceedings, including an inquest, would be completed before Santhosh's body was shifted for postmortem examination. The investigation is underway.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mansa Shock: Locals Catch Punjab Police ASI Consuming Heroin, Demand Strict Action (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 22:37:37 +0530

In what was described as a major embarrassment for the state's law enforcement, an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Punjab Police was allegedly caught by local residents consuming heroin in Mansa on Friday, October 30.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter), the Punjab Police ASI, identified as Sehajpreet Singh, was surrounded and heckled by residents after being caught in an unstable condition near ITI Chowk in Budhlada town. Sehajpreet was reportedly deployed on temporary law and order duty in Mansa.

The incident came to light amid the ongoing cases of drug-related issues across Punjab, where residents were already on edge and conducting anti-drug demonstrations, particularly after the killing of anti-drug crusader Parvinder Singh Jhota and the mysterious death of farmer Daljit Singh.

Also Read: Punjab Woman Seeks Justice After Husband Dies in Suspicious Circumstances

How Did Mansa Locals Catch a Punjab ASI with Heroin?

Mansa district, which is located in the Malwa region of southern Punjab, has been grappling with systemic drug abuse over the years. However, the district witnessed an unexpected yet concerning incident involving the Punjab Police ASI, who was reportedly temporarily on duty there.

Sehajpreet Singh’s alleged consumption of heroin came to light when locals spotted him in an intoxicated, unstable condition near ITI Chowk in Budhlada, where he was deployed on temporary duty. Suspicious of his state, angry residents surrounded and confronted him, catching him on the spot while recording the video.

The Punjab Police ASI’s alleged consumption of ‘chitta’ further angered the locals when he lost his balance while walking in front of the crowd, exposing his severe state of intoxication. He was forced to sit on the road by locals, who questioned him for alleged consumption of heroin.

A Punjab Police ASI allegedly caught with heroin in Mansa exposes the bitter reality of Punjab’s anti-drug campaign. Locals demand action as the AAP government faces growing anger over the drug crisis. https://t.co/4BJiVOzuQ2

— NehaJha (@NeehaJha) October 30, 2026

situation in Punjab has reached a point where even the police, who claim to be fighting drugs, are being caught allegedly consuming them. A Punjab Police ASI was reportedly caught red-handed by locals while consuming chittain a public toilet near ITI Chowk, Budhlada. https://t.co/m4iInyiXGl

— Parmeet Bidowali (@ParmeetBidowali) October 30, 2026

As drug abuse in Punjab has become a focal point of discussion across the country after several viral videos showing people consuming drugs in open public spaces surfaced online, this latest incident involving a uniformed police officer has further intensified public scrutiny.

The Punjab Police ASI, who was supposed to do the job of curbing drug abuse in the region, was himself caught in an intoxicated state, raising serious questions about law enforcement's internal checks.

Action Taken by the Police

Punjab Police ASI Sehajpreet Singh’s alleged consumption of heroin was brought to the attention of senior police officials after local residents handed him over following the public confrontation. SP Narinder Singh arrived at the scene with the police force and took Sehajpreet to the local civil hospital for an immediate medical assessment.

The medical tests confirmed that ASI was tested for morphine. Following the medical examination and report, Sehajpreet Singh has been registered under Section 27 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, at Budhlada City Police Station.

Speaking to the reporters, Mansa SSP Vaibhav Chaudhary later stated that while the dope test established drug consumption, no physical quantity of contraband was recovered directly from the officer's person during the apprehension.

Though a criminal case has been registered against Sehajpreet Singh, it is uncertain whether the Punjab Police ASI has been suspended from duty or if departmental disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against him.

Also Read: Punjab Vigilance Bureau Submits Chargesheet Against Bikramjit Majithia