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Incessant rains continue in Kerala; Rajasthan records highest rainfall in June in 123 years

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1. “Record-Breaking Rainfall: Rajasthan Soaked in Deluge, Defying All Expectations!”
In a stunning twist of weather events, the desert state of Rajasthan experienced an extraordinary downpour in June, with a staggering total rainfall of 156.9 mm. This exceptional deluge surpassed the average rainfall by a remarkable 185 percent, shattering records dating all the way back to 1901.

2. “Nationwide Rain Symphony: Showers to Serenade India for the Next Two Days!”
Prepare for a captivating spectacle as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) sets the stage for a mesmerizing performance of rain across the country. According to their latest forecast, widespread rain is expected to enchant India over the next two days, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking symphony of water and earth.

3. “Kerala’s Monsoon Saga: The Dance of Heavy Showers Continues!”
In a mesmerizing display of nature’s power, Kerala is drenched in incessant heavy showers, unfolding a dramatic tale since the night of July 4. Sadly, this enchanting performance came at a cost, with one unfortunate soul losing their life and numerous areas succumbing to floods as Kerala’s dams and rivers overflowed. An orange alert has been raised in all districts of Kerala, except for Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram, as the state braces itself for further rainfall.

4. “Nature’s Brushstrokes: Gujarat and Saurashtra Prepare for a Rainfall Masterpiece!”
Gujarat and Saurashtra are about to witness a masterpiece of rainfall, carefully crafted by nature’s hand. The India Meteorological Department predicts a captivating increase in the intensity of rainfall in these regions, promising heavy to very heavy showers for three consecutive days, starting from July 6. Brace yourselves as the heavens paint a stunning portrait with rain as their brush.

5. “Mumbai’s Rainy Interlude: A Splash of Light Showers Amidst the Urban Jungle!”
In the heart of Mumbai, a delightful interlude of rain brings a refreshing respite to the bustling cityscape. As the sky releases a gentle drizzle, parts of Mumbai experience a serene ambiance on Wednesday morning. The India Meteorological Department acknowledges this enchanting display, issuing an ‘orange’ alert, foretelling heavy to very heavy showers at select locations in the metropolis.

6. “Unforeseen Obstacle: Chunnabhatti’s Morning Surprise on the Eastern Express Highway!”
In an unexpected turn of events, a morning commute was disrupted when a landslide incident occurred near Rahul Nagar on the Eastern Express Highway in Chunnabhatti. Around 9 am, nature’s force was felt as a land slide shook the area, leaving travelers and residents in awe of its power.

In Pawar-Ajit battle for control over NCP, an echo of Uddhav-Shinde’s Sena war

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The political landscape in Maharashtra is ablaze with a power struggle that rivals the fiercest conflicts. It’s a saga of family ties unraveling, factions splitting, and alliances shifting. Picture this: a tumultuous battle unfolding within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) between its indomitable leader, Sharad Pawar, and his own nephew, Ajit Pawar. The intensity of this clash mirrors the turmoil that has plagued the Shiv Sena for the past year.

Ajit Pawar, driven by ambition and a thirst for power, orchestrated a dramatic split from the NCP. On July 2, he joined forces with the Eknath Shinde Sena-BJP government, pulling along with him a cadre of eight influential NCP MLAs. With a swift maneuver, Ajit was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister, closely following in the footsteps of Devendra Fadnavis from the saffron party. This move, reminiscent of Shinde’s rebellion against the undivided Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray, not only fractured the NCP but also caused the toppling of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government.

Shinde, a rebel with a cause, had defected from the Uddhav-led Sena, forging an alliance with the BJP and establishing their own coalition government. Despite the BJP being the senior partner, Shinde boldly assumed the role of Chief Minister. He fervently claimed that his faction represented the true essence of the Sena, asserting, “I have the support of 40 out of our 56 MLAs and 12 out of 19 Lok Sabha MPs.” Riding high on this perceived majority, the Shinde Sena staked its claim to the Shiv Sena’s name and its emblem, the symbolic “bow and arrow,” in a fierce battle fought both on the streets and in the courts.

In a landmark ruling, the Election Commission (EC) acknowledged the legitimacy of the Shinde Sena’s claim over the original party name and symbol, leaving the Uddhav Sena with no choice but to adopt a new identity—Shiv Sena (UBT)—and a new symbol, a blazing torch. However, the Uddhav Sena swiftly challenged this decision in the Supreme Court, creating a legal showdown that remains unresolved.

Drawing parallels between the NCP and the Sena’s splits, sources within the state secretariat suggest a striking similarity in their paths. The unfolding drama in the NCP appears to be heading down the same treacherous road as the Sena, prompting speculations about its eventual outcome. A close aide of Ajit Pawar emphasizes the careful consideration of legal and constitutional aspects before taking the plunge into the Shinde Sena-BJP coalition. They assure that adequate safeguards were put in place, ensuring a calculated move.

The NCP, with its 53 MLAs in the 288-member House, is now divided between the rival factions. The Ajit camp ardently claims to have secured majority support, a claim vehemently contested by the Pawar Senior faction. The battleground is set, and the scenes witnessed within the Sena are replaying with a vengeance in the NCP. The game of sackings and disqualification petitions has commenced, with Pawar Senior expelling two senior leaders—working president Praful Patil and general secretary Sunil Tatkare—who had crossed over to the Ajit group.

Not to be outdone, the Pawar Senior faction wasted no time and promptly filed a disqualification petition against nine NCP MLAs, including Ajit himself, who joined the government. Once again, the fate of this disqualification plea rests in the hands of Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar. Jitendra Awhad was appointed as

the NCP Legislature Party leader and Chief Whip in the state Assembly by the Pawar Senior faction, making their intentions clear.

In a retaliatory move, the Ajit faction filed a counter-petition before the Speaker, seeking the disqualification of Jayant Patil, the state party chief, and Jitendra Awhad, who are affiliated with Pawar Senior. They wasted no time in appointing Ajit as the Legislative Party leader, Anil Bhaidas Patil as the Chief Whip, and Sunil Tatkare as the state party president. The battle lines are drawn, and both factions are prepared to fight tooth and nail, reminiscent of the fierce legal battles waged by the Sena factions.

Just like the Sena factions, the NCP groups are expected to take their battle to the courts. They are gearing up to slug it out in various legal arenas, much like their counterparts. The Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court, in its verdict earlier this year, denounced the unjustified decision by former Maharashtra governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, who had asked the Uddhav government to prove its majority on the floor of the House following Shinde’s rebellion. The apex court, however, ruled that the Uddhav-led government could not be reinstated as he had resigned without facing the floor test.

The Supreme Court also instructed Speaker Narwekar to expedite the decision on pending disqualification petitions. Now, the Uddhav Sena has approached the apex court yet again, seeking direction to the Speaker to swiftly decide on the disqualification pleas against Shinde Sena MLAs that have been pending for a year.

Challenging Pawar’s expulsion of Praful and Tatkare, the Ajit camp argues that since they were appointed by Pawar himself at the party’s national convention, another party conclave must be convened to remove them. The battle between the Pawar Senior and Ajit factions rages on, intensifying with each passing day.

The NCP factions are following in the footsteps of the Sena factions, meticulously gathering affidavits of support from party workers, functionaries, and elected representatives. These documents will serve as evidence in their quest to prove their respective majority claims. Indications suggest that both factions are gearing up to approach the Election Commission, vying for the party’s name and symbol.

The story continues to unfold, with courtroom drama and political upheaval on the horizon. The NCP, like the Sena, finds itself entangled in a web of legal battles and power struggles. As history repeats itself, the future of the NCP hangs in the balance, waiting for the final verdict in this gripping tale of political ambition and family ties strained to their limits.

SAFF Championship 2023: Sunil Chhetri Wins Both Golden Boot & Ball

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In a breathtaking showdown under the floodlights of Bengaluru, India soared to new heights, capturing their ninth SAFF Championship title in a glorious fashion. The gripping final clash against Kuwait kept fans on the edge of their seats, with both teams battling fiercely for supremacy. As the dust settled on the captivating 120-minute showdown, the scoreboard remained unchanged, leading the fate of the championship to be decided by nerve-wracking penalties.

Amidst the nail-biting tension, it was India’s indomitable goalkeeper, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who emerged as the shining star of the night. His remarkable performance during the penalty shootout earned him the coveted title of Man of the Match, etching his name in the annals of football history.

The charismatic Indian captain, Sunil Chhetri, adorned himself with multiple accolades, adding to his legend as one of the sport’s greatest warriors. Chhetri’s remarkable display of skill and finesse throughout the tournament earned him the prestigious Golden Boot award. His unstoppable prowess led to five awe-inspiring goals in the 2023 edition, leaving a trail of admiration in his wake.

However, the brilliance on the field extended beyond the Indian camp. Bangladesh’s extraordinary shot-stopper, Anisur Rehman Zico, showcased his mastery between the goalposts, earning him the well-deserved Golden Glove award. His unparalleled performance throughout the 2023 SAFF Championship demonstrated his unwavering dedication and skill.

In the spirit of fair play, Nepal emerged as the true epitome of sportsmanship, capturing the hearts of fans and fellow competitors alike. With only four yellow cards, they clinched the coveted Fair Play Award, showcasing their commitment to the beautiful game and upholding its values.

And at the center of it all, Sunil Chhetri shone once again, claiming the title of the tournament’s Best Player. Leading India to another resounding SAFF victory, Chhetri etched his name in the tournament’s folklore. His contribution surpassed mere goalscoring, as he guided his team with unwavering determination and passion. A testament to his prowess, his mesmerizing hat-trick against Pakistan solidified his position as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.

As the confetti descended and the celebrations ignited, India’s triumph in the SAFF Championship reverberated throughout the nation. A symphony of skill, teamwork, and indomitable spirit, this victory will be etched in the hearts of football enthusiasts for generations to come.

Kavach, The Indian Technology That Can Prevent Two Trains From Colliding

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The Untold Saga of Chaos on the Tracks: Unraveling the Enigma of a Railway Collision

Introduction:
In the heart of Odisha’s Bahanaga Bazar station, an electrifying incident has left the nation spellbound. A mystifying collision between the mighty Coromandel Express and a motionless goods train has unleashed chaos, claiming the lives of 288 individuals and leaving over 800 wounded. As the dust settles and hearts yearn for answers, the railway authorities’ vague statements have left us hungering for a comprehensive account of this bewildering tragedy.

  •  A Dance with Destiny
    The Setting:
    Imagine the scene: a moonlit night, the rhythmic clattering of steel wheels against the tracks, and three trains hurtling toward a convergence of fate. Welcome to Bahanaga Bazar station in Odisha’s Balasore district, where two passenger trains dared to cross paths while a dormant goods train lay silently in wait.
  • The Coromandel Express:
    Our first protagonist, the illustrious 12841 Coromandel Express, embarked on a grand voyage from Shalimar station in Kolkata/Howrah, bound for Chennai. Having gallantly traversed Kharagpur and Balasore, it seemed destined for triumph. The train marched resolutely on its scheduled path, bypassing Bahanaga Bazar station without a moment’s pause at precisely 7:01 pm.
  • A Tapestry of Tracks
    The Intricate Network:
    At the heart of Bahanaga Bazar lies a labyrinthine web of tracks. Here, the Up Main Line snakes its way toward Chennai, while the Down Main Line beckons those bound for Howrah. Two alluring loop lines entice trains to rest, offering passage to swifter counterparts on the main lines. But on that fateful night, the stage was set for an unexpected twist.
  •  The Plot Thickens
    Signaling Shenanigans:
    In the realm of railways, signals dictate the locomotive’s course, eclipsing the visual cues that darkness may conceal. As we await the official inquiry’s verdict, whispers from within the Railways suggest a potential signaling error played a part in this tragic tale. A green signal paved the way for the Coromandel Express to traverse the designated main line. But as fate would have it, this signal mysteriously vanished, ensnaring the train within the loop line’s clutches.
  •  The Cataclysm Unleashed
    Collision Course:
    The Railways’ succinct report paints a harrowing picture. At full throttle, the Coromandel Express raced through the station, oblivious to its unscheduled diversion. In a tragic twist of fate, the train’s unyielding momentum thrust it headlong into the stationary goods train, resulting in a spine-chilling amalgamation of steel and wreckage. Glimpses of the aftermath reveal the Coromandel’s locomotive perched precariously atop the once dormant goods train, a haunting symbol of a calamity gone awry.
  •  Seeking Answers Amidst the Rubble
    The Locomotive’s Dilemma:
    As investigators unravel the enigma, scrutiny falls upon the Coromandel Express’s intrepid driver, often hailed as the “loco pilot.” Railway officials delve into the depths of signaling failure while also examining the driver’s potential role in this catastrophic affair. However, let us not forget the staggering reality: trains, colossal masses of steel propelled by titanic engines, possess a momentum that defies swift cessation. Even with emergency brakes engaged, the Coromandel Express, hurtling at “full speed,” was poised for tragedy, demanding an unfathomable distance to halt its course.
  •  Collateral Damage
    A Twist

of Fate:
As the Coromandel Express plunged into its ill-fated rendezvous, a third player emerged from the shadows—the 12864 Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru-Howrah Express. This valiant train traversed the Down main line, heading toward Howrah in the opposite direction. While most of the Bengaluru-Howrah Express had successfully maneuvered past the accident site, the final few coaches bore the brunt of this collision course. Whether crushed by the toppling coaches of the Coromandel Express or shaken by the reverberations echoing through the ground and tracks, their plight added a tragic layer to this tale.

Conclusion:
As the story of this cataclysmic collision draws to a close, haunting questions linger in the air. How did routine journeys unravel into nightmares? Who bears the weight of responsibility for this grievous tragedy? As we anxiously await the unveiling of truth through meticulous investigation, one thing remains clear—only time will unmask the secrets hidden within the chaos of that fateful night on the tracks of Bahanaga Bazar station.

How Did The Odisha Train Crash Happen? This Is What We Know So Far

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Tragedy Unveiled: The Curious Case of the Railway Collision

In the aftermath of a shocking railway accident at Odisha’s Bahanaga Bazar station, the details surrounding the catastrophe still remain shrouded in mystery. A perplexing incident involving the Coromandel Express and a stationary goods train has claimed the lives of 288 individuals, leaving over 800 injured. The railway authorities have issued a meager statement, leaving the public hungry for answers while awaiting a comprehensive report.

Picture this: a bustling train hurtling through the night, suddenly veering off its intended path to collide mercilessly with an unsuspecting goods train. How could such a catastrophic mishap occur? The initial findings suggest a signaling error as the prime suspect, but only a thorough inquiry can unveil the complete truth.

Let’s retrace our steps to the location of the crash. Bahanaga Bazar station, nestled in the heart of Odisha’s Balasore district, witnessed this calamitous event. The region falls under the Kharagpur railway division of the South Eastern Railway, where three trains converged on a fateful collision course. Two passenger trains, traveling in opposing directions, found themselves entangled in a disastrous dance with destiny, while a stationary goods train became an unwitting victim of circumstance.

The ill-fated 12841 Coromandel Express embarked on its journey from Shalimar station in Kolkata/Howrah, destined for Chennai. Having smoothly passed through Kharagpur and Balasore, its next scheduled stop would have been Bhadrak. Progressing almost flawlessly on its timetable, the train would have breezed past Bahanaga Bazar without halting at precisely 7:01 pm.

Let’s examine the intricate layout of the tracks at Bahanaga Bazar. The Up Main Line, leading toward Chennai, and the Down Main Line, directing traffic to Howrah, provided the primary pathways for the trains. Additionally, two loop lines flanked the main lines, serving as parking areas for trains, ensuring unimpeded passage for faster or more critical locomotives.

As the Coromandel Express approached its destination, it encountered a peculiar situation. The loop line designated for its passage had become an unwitting host to a goods train, also traveling in the Up direction. Naturally, the Coromandel was expected to overtake the goods train on the main line, but fate had a different course in mind.

According to the Railways’ concise accident report, the Coromandel, thundering forward at full speed without any intention of stopping at the station, veered into the loop line. The consequence was an unthinkable collision with the stationary goods train, resulting in the Coromandel’s locomotive perched precariously atop the wreckage.

How could this dreadful incident transpire? In the realm of railway operations, locomotive drivers primarily rely on signals rather than visual cues, particularly during nocturnal journeys. Though we await the official inquiry’s findings, sources within the Railways suggest that a signaling error may have played a role in this tragic misstep.

A joint inspection conducted by diligent supervisors revealed a disconcerting revelation. Initially, a green signal granted the Coromandel passage along the designated main line. However, inexplicably, the signal was subsequently deactivated. Consequently, the ill-fated train found itself on the loop line, resulting in the devastating collision with the goods train.

As we delve deeper into this enigma, attention turns to the locomotive’s driver, often referred to as the “loco pilot” within the Railways. Railway officials scrutinize both the possibilities of signaling failure and the driver’s involvement in this calamity. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that trains are colossal behemoths, propelled by immense power. The brief from the Rail

ways indicates that the Coromandel was hurtling at “full speed,” possibly around 100 km/hr. Even with emergency brakes engaged, such a massive force would require a considerable distance to come to a complete halt.

Adding further complexity to the narrative, another player enters the stage: the 12864 Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru-Howrah Express. This train, traversing the adjacent Down main line in the opposite direction toward Howrah, was passing by just as the Coromandel careened into the goods train. Although most of the Bengaluru-Howrah Express had already moved beyond the accident’s epicenter, the final few coaches bore the brunt of the disaster. These unfortunate carriages either succumbed to the impact of the Coromandel’s toppling coaches or suffered the reverberations coursing through the ground and tracks.

As the dust settles at Bahanaga Bazar station, the haunting questions persist. How did a routine journey turn into a nightmare? Who bears the responsibility for this tragedy? While we yearn for a clearer picture, only time and a meticulous investigation will unveil the truth behind this perplexing and devastating railway collision.

Seashell collector finds shark egg on beach, netizens enchanted by its shape and texture

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About 40 per cent of shark species lay eggs.

Unveiling the Hidden Secret: Sharks and their Fascinating Eggs!

When we imagine animals that lay eggs, our minds typically conjure images of birds, reptiles, or even insects. Sharks are the last creatures that come to mind in this regard. However, brace yourselves for a mind-boggling revelation: according to the esteemed research non-profit MarAlliance, around 40 percent of shark species actually lay eggs! Yes, you read that correctly. These majestic predators have a surprising secret when it comes to reproduction.

Picture this: nestled deep within the ocean’s depths, shark eggs lie wedged between rocks, hidden from prying eyes. These eggs, each cradling a solitary embryo, incubate for an impressive span of six to nine months. The sharks, diligently safeguarding their future offspring, create a submerged sanctuary for their eggs. However, nature often has a way of toying with the rules, occasionally causing these eggs to wash up on shorelines.

Recently, a remarkable encounter took place on a California beach, when a passionate sea shell collector named Rebecca, widely known as @california.shelling on Instagram, stumbled upon a precious treasure. She couldn’t contain her excitement as she shared a captivating video, revealing a fascinating shark egg she had discovered. In the Instagram footage, Rebecca delicately describes the egg’s unique attributes, emphasizing its soft and spongy texture. With awe in her voice, she points out a small, visible embryo housed within the delicate shell.

The video’s caption provides a valuable glimpse into the wonders of nature, as it educates viewers about the intricate world of shark reproduction. “Some sharks give birth to live young, and others are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. California horn shark mothers lay these corkscrew egg cases. When it comes out, it is very pliable, but hardens over time. Hope this lil guy makes it!” reads the caption, encapsulating the awe-inspiring miracle of life unfolding before our very eyes.

The Instagram community erupted with astonishment and wonder, expressing their awe at Mother Nature’s ingenuity. One user’s comment truly captured the sentiment shared by many: “MIND BLOWN! That is seriously one of the coolest things I’ve seen about Mother Nature in a while!!” Another person chimed in, astounded by the unexpected revelation, confessing, “If you’d given me 1000 guesses, I wouldn’t have said that’s a shark egg.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/CsjwICSAgrP/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_video_watch_again

While the discovery of these remarkable shark eggs delighted many, there were also voices of caution echoing through the online conversation. Numerous individuals emphasized the importance of leaving these washed-up eggs undisturbed. Reflecting this sentiment, one concerned user urged, “Really cool find! When encountering shark eggs, sea turtle eggs, or baby sea turtles on the shore, it’s crucial to contact your local aquatic center or marine wildlife rescue center. They will provide invaluable guidance and assistance, ensuring the best course of action to safeguard these precious animals’ longevity. A quick Google search, a simple phone call, and a few minutes of your time could make a significant difference!”

So, the next time you find yourself wandering along a picturesque shoreline, remember the hidden marvels that may lie at your feet. From the unexpected world of shark eggs to the delicate balance of preserving nature’s miracles, let us stand as stewards of these remarkable species, forever in awe of their mysteries.

‘Like an action movie’: Car flies after hitting tow truck ramp in US

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Unleashing the Wild Side: Car Soars through the Air in Real-Life Stunt Gone Wrong!

Imagine the adrenaline rush of a car racing game like Asphalt, Need for Speed, or Forza Horizon. The thrill of defying physics, executing jaw-dropping 360 maneuvers, and soaring through the virtual sky is unmatched. But what happens when a heart-stopping moment from the gaming world becomes a bone-chilling reality?

In a surreal incident that could easily be mistaken for a scene from an action-packed movie, a car in Georgia, USA, hit a tow truck ramp and took flight. Yes, you read that right—this wasn’t a CGI spectacle or a digital realm. The driver, however, didn’t experience the perfect landing typically witnessed in gaming fantasies. Instead, the car somersaulted through the air, rolling over multiple times before gravity took its toll.

It’s a sight that would make any virtual daredevil proud, but the consequences were far from virtual. The driver suffered serious injuries, a grim reminder that the real world is not as forgiving as the pixelated playgrounds we often indulge in. Thankfully, the police, who were already present at the scene for another crash, captured the entire heart-stopping episode on a bodycam.

As news of the incident spread like wildfire, CNN shared a video clip on Twitter, accompanied by the caption, “A driver survived with serious injuries after hitting a tow truck ramp off a highway in Georgia. Police were on the scene for another crash when bodycam video captured the moment.”

The online community erupted with reactions, blending shock, humor, and relief. One Twitter user couldn’t help but express concern, saying, “Hooman needs to stop watching ‘Fast & Furious’ movies and start ‘watching’ the road. I am glad that the driver survived.” Another chimed in, humorously comparing the real-life ordeal to the notorious game GTA: “Bro thought he was playing GTA for real.” A third netizen marveled at the driver’s dedication to stunts, writing, “Looks like the driver took the term ‘car ramp’ a little too literally! Glad they survived, though. That’s some serious dedication to stunts.” Meanwhile, a different Twitter user likened the incident to a breathtaking scene from an action movie, further emphasizing the surreal nature of the event.

In the midst of these varied reactions, one Twitter user pointed a finger at the tow truck, absolving the driver of any blame. According to their argument, with the ramp down, it would have been nearly impossible for the driver to distinguish it from the road. The user highlighted the absence of road flares, police cars with flashing lights, or any indication of a stationary vehicle, making the truck essentially invisible.

As discussions unfold online, the incident serves as a striking reminder of the boundaries between fantasy and reality. The allure of defying gravity and indulging in death-defying stunts may be captivating, but it also carries genuine risks. So, perhaps it’s time for us all to shift our focus from the silver screen and virtual realms and start paying closer attention to the roads we navigate. After all, life’s most thrilling adventures are often found in the real world, where the consequences are all too tangible.

Why Top Athletes From Manipur Are Threatening To Return Their Awards To The Government

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Being recognized for your contributions to the sport and the country is the greatest honor for any athlete. However, it becomes incredibly difficult for them to return their awards or medals.

On Tuesday morning, I received a phone call from a National Award-winning sportsperson from Manipur, along with other prominent athletes, to discuss finding a solution to the current crisis gripping our state. We proposed meeting the Union Home Minister, who was visiting the state, hoping that he would listen to us considering our significant contributions to sports. Our agenda was clear: a plea to end the violence in Manipur and restore peace. If the government failed to address the situation, we were prepared to return our awards.

It is heartbreaking to even contemplate such a decision driven by emotions. For athletes, being recognized for their contributions to sports and the nation is an unparalleled honor. Coincidentally, on the same day, our wrestlers decided to throw their medals into the Ganga. However, I am not aware of the internal dynamics of the wrestling protests led by Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, and Bajrang Punia. The recent scenes in the streets of Delhi should never have occurred. I heard reports that they even had their tickets snatched away when they went to watch a cricket match. These athletes have brought immense pride to our country, and the government must ensure a peaceful resolution to their problems.

However, our situation in Manipur is distinct from that of the wrestlers. While they are fighting for their sport, we are fighting to save our state. For years, all Manipuris have lived as one big family, with different tribes, languages, religions, and communities coexisting peacefully. It epitomized the spirit of unity in Manipur. Sadly, the violence that has unfolded in recent weeks is deeply regrettable. Although I reside in a relatively peaceful area in Imphal, I have heard enough stories to understand the gravity of the situation in the hills.

I recently learned about incidents where an 80-year-old lady’s house was set on fire, and an innocent old man was burned alive. How can such inhuman acts be perpetrated? Is there really so much hatred? There are various rumors and speculations about the perpetrators behind the violence, but all we desire is peace. We have appealed to both the central and state governments to restore peace.

The violence has disrupted our everyday lives. From a sportsperson’s perspective, the training of every athlete has come to a halt due to the curfew. This period is critical as the Asian Games are scheduled for September-October, and selection trials are underway in many sports. Manipuri athletes excel in almost every sport, and their participation in the Asiad is uncertain due to the prevailing situation. In football, we have the National Championship approaching, and assembling a team is becoming increasingly challenging. The internet shutdown is also impacting our day-to-day work. As the head of scouting for the All India Football Federation, I cannot fulfill my role or access my emails due to the lack of internet connectivity.

Speaking about the situation evokes strong emotions within me. If the violence continues to deny our young athletes the opportunity to play, affects the participation of Manipuri athletes in the Asian Games, and continues to impact the lives of every Manipuri, our only option is to appeal to the government and, if necessary, return our awards. We are thinking about the well-being of everyone, not just ourselves. The government honored us with these awards, but if they are not helping Manipur in its time of need, what purpose do these awards serve? If everyone perishes, what will we do with them?

The Home Minister has promised a swift resolution, assured us not to worry, and pledged to make every effort to stop the violence. His words have given us confidence,

Haryana BJP leaders admit party silence on wrestlers ringing too loud

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Protests during public outreach programs have put Chief Minister Khattar in a difficult position, while the Opposition sees an opportunity to gain support from the wrestlers, who are native to Haryana. The standoff between the wrestlers and the central government has created unease within the Haryana BJP, particularly as the Lok Sabha and Haryana Assembly elections approach.

While most state leaders have refrained from openly supporting the wrestlers’ struggle for justice, a few have voiced their support. Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, and Bajrang Punia, all hailing from Haryana, have been at the forefront of the protests for over four months. Chief Minister Khattar has faced disruptions and protests during his Jan Samvad programs, causing further concern within the BJP.

The wrestlers have garnered support from powerful farmers’ unions in the state, who are considering a mass protest against BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, also the chief of Wrestling Federation of India. The Congress party, recognizing the potential of the wrestlers’ protest, has thrown its weight behind them, leveraging their strong support base among the Jat community.

The AINC and the Aam Aadmi Party have also expressed support for the wrestlers. Despite growing support and serious allegations against Brij Bhushan, the Haryana BJP leadership has not responded thus far, except for a few exceptions such as Home Minister Anil Vij and Hisar MP Brijendra Singh.

The wrestlers had sought Chief Minister Khattar’s support, but he distanced himself from the issue, stating that it falls under the jurisdiction of the players’ teams and the central government. Former Union minister Birender Singh expressed his concerns to BJP president J P Nadda, highlighting the party’s credibility being at stake.

Singh urged Nadda to intervene and address the issue promptly, emphasizing the need to listen to the wrestlers’ voices. He also called for reforms in the governance of sports federations, which often involve politicians, industrialists, and bureaucrats. Haryana BJP president Om Prakash Dhankar raised the issue with Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, emphasizing the wrestlers’ right to justice.

However, some BJP leaders acknowledged that remaining silent on the matter could have negative consequences, emphasizing the importance of understanding ground realities and reaching a timely resolution.