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In a disturbing development in the murder case of a migrant worker from Bihar in Chennai, the body of his two-year-old son was found near the Cooum River in the Madhya Kailash area on Wednesday, days after the father was brutally killed.
The victim, Gaurav Kumar (24), was found dead on Monday morning in the Indira Nagar area of Adyar after residents noticed blood oozing from a gunny bag abandoned near a busy road. Police later discovered his body stuffed inside the sack, bearing deep cut injuries on the head and face. The body was sent to Government Royapettah Hospital for post-mortem examination.
Following the identification of Gaurav, police reported that his wife, Munita Kumari, and their two-year-old son were missing, raising fears that they too had been killed. The case took a grim turn when, during an extensive search operation, the child&rsquo;s body was recovered from the banks of the Cooum River near Madhya Kailash. Efforts to trace Munita are still underway.
Investigators said CCTV footage from nearby areas showed two men arriving on a motorcycle, dumping the gunny bag containing Gaurav&rsquo;s body and fleeing the scene. Based on the vehicle&rsquo;s registration number, police detained several suspects and intensified the probe.
So far, five migrant workers from Bihar have been arrested in connection with the murder. During questioning, some of the accused allegedly confessed that Gaurav&rsquo;s wife and child were also murdered, though police said these claims are still being verified. Authorities believe the crime was committed by people known to the victim.
Special police teams have been conducting searches across multiple locations in Chennai, including canal roads, dumping yards and riverbanks. Police said they have not ruled out the possibility of sexual assault in connection with the disappearance of Gaurav&rsquo;s wife.
Originally from Bihar, Gaurav had recently moved to Chennai with his family in search of work. He was employed as a security guard at a polytechnic college in Taramani, where the family had been staying. The investigation into the triple murder case is ongoing.

Days after migrant worker’s killing, two-year-old’s body found near Cooum

Chennai Murder Case: Victim’s Son Found Dead

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has busted a major wildlife smuggling operation, arresting four people and preventing the illegal export of red sanders worth ₹6.26 crore.
Acting on precise intelligence inputs, DRI officers conducted coordinated raids across multiple locations in and around Chennai, uncovering large stockpiles of red sanders logs that were being prepared for overseas shipment. Around 15 metric tonnes of the rare and highly protected wood were seized during the operation.
Officials said the smugglers had meticulously packed and concealed the logs to evade detection, indicating the involvement of an organised network with experience in illegal exports. The arrested individuals are believed to include key handlers responsible for sourcing, storage, and logistics.
Red sanders is a protected species and its export is strictly regulated due to its endangered status and high demand in international markets. Its illegal trade has long been a concern for enforcement agencies, given the environmental damage and revenue loss it causes.
The seized consignment and related materials have been taken into custody, and further investigations are underway to identify additional players and overseas links connected to the smuggling racket.
The operation marks a significant crackdown on wildlife trafficking and reinforces the government&rsquo;s push to curb illegal trade in protected forest produce.

DRI Busts ₹6.26 Cr Red Sanders Smuggling Racket

Four arrested after intelligence-led raids foil illegal export of red sanders wood

The release of Akhanda 2, directed by Boyapati Srinu and starring Nandamuri Balakrishna in dual roles, has been delayed indefinitely following a last-minute legal setback. 
The film, originally scheduled to hit theatres on December 5, was pulled hours before release after its December 4 premiere shows were abruptly cancelled.
Tiruppur Subramanian, chairman of Sri Sakthi Cinemas in Tamil Nadu, has issued an update on the ongoing ₹28-crore dispute that has stalled the film&rsquo;s rollout. 
In a voice note shared by the exhibitor on social media, Subramanian said the team is working intensively to resolve the issue.
In the message, he stated in Tamil, &ldquo;Dear friends, greetings to all. I am Tiruppur Subramanian speaking. The makers and hero are doing their best to ensure the release of Akhanda 2. They have been preparing and doing everything to ensure it releases.&rdquo;
Subramanian added that a key hearing was scheduled for Friday morning. 
&ldquo;Today at 10 AM, there's a court case. I&rsquo;m hoping that 99% the issue will be sorted. After that, the film will be released because they&rsquo;re working hard for it. We will know the status by noon or evening, so please plan accordingly,&rdquo; he said.
The legal challenge originates from Eros International Media Limited, which has approached the Madras High Court over arbitration money pending for the past 11 years. 
According to filings, 14 Reels Entertainment Private Limited reportedly owes ₹28 crore plus interest. 
The High Court has ordered that Akhanda 2 cannot be released until the matter receives judicial clearance.
The production team announced the postponement on Thursday evening, citing &ldquo;unavoidable circumstances,&rdquo; moments after informing fans that the scheduled premieres had been cancelled. 
In a statement, the makers said, &ldquo;We are working tirelessly to resolve the matter at the earliest. Our sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused. Your support means the world to us. We promise to share a positive update very soon.&rdquo;
The new release date for Akhanda 2 will depend on the outcome of the ongoing court proceedings.

Balakrishna film poster delayed amid court dispute

Akhanda 2 faces sudden stop as Madras HC orders hold over ₹28-crore claim

Akhanda 2 Release Stalled Over ₹28-Cr Row

Heavy rains triggered by Cyclone Ditwah led authorities in Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Kanchipuram to declare a holiday for all schools and colleges on December 2 as a precautionary measure. District administrations announced the shutdown late Monday, citing the need to ensure student safety amid warnings of intense rainfall and potential waterlogging.
Officials have urged residents to remain alert, avoid non-essential travel, and follow advisories issued by the state government and disaster management teams. According to state authorities, three people have lost their lives in rain-related incidents linked to Cyclone Ditwah.
On Monday, continuous moderate to heavy rain impacted Chennai and nearby districts, inundating several roads, low-lying areas, and residential colonies. Parts of Velachery, including AGS Colony, were submerged, while incidents such as a sinking car and a stranded government bus in Poonamallee highlighted the severity of the situation. Traffic congestion was reported across major junctions, including the Kathipara flyover.
The meteorological department forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over Chennai and Tiruvallur until Tuesday morning as the weakened cyclone hovered near the Tamil Nadu&ndash;Puducherry coastline.
Chief Minister M. K. Stalin announced immediate compensation through the State Disaster Response Fund for farmers affected by crop loss, as well as for families impacted by damage to homes, livestock loss, and other monsoon-related consequences. He stated that relief camps would continue to receive essential facilities until conditions improved.
Senior ministers and Chennai Corporation officials inspected relief operations at the Integrated Command and Control Centre, where teams were deployed to manage flooding, remove stagnation, and restore normalcy. Officials reported that 22 subways were cleared of water through swift intervention. Over 1,400 motor pumps, heavy-duty machinery, and more than 22,000 personnel were mobilised for emergency response.
A flood alert has been issued for the Adyar, Kosasthalaiyar, and Araniyar rivers due to rising inflows expected across Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur districts.

Heavy rains from Cyclone Ditwah force shutdowns, flooding, and emergency measures

Cyclone Ditwah: Chennai Schools Shut Amid Rains

Southeast Asia is facing one of its deadliest weather crises in recent years as two powerful cyclones, Senyar and Ditwah, struck the region within days of each other, killing more than 1,000 people and forcing tens of thousands to flee their homes across Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka and parts of southern India.
The devastation began with Cyclone Senyar, an extremely rare storm that formed near the equator over the Strait of Malacca. Such formations are uncommon due to weak rotational forces at low latitudes, but unusually warm sea temperatures allowed the system to intensify rapidly. While the cyclone moved away from India, it struck Indonesia and nearby regions with relentless rain.
In Indonesia&rsquo;s Sumatra island, nonstop downpours triggered floods and landslides that wiped out entire settlements. Roads collapsed, communication networks failed, and several villages were completely cut off. Homes were submerged up to their rooftops, forcing aerial rescue missions and naval supply operations. Authorities described the flooding as among the worst in living memory.
Thailand also suffered heavily as storm-driven rainfall inundated southern provinces. Hundreds lost their lives, millions of households were affected, and economic losses ran into billions. Tourism infrastructure, hotels, restaurants, and key agricultural sectors such as rubber and palm oil faced severe damage.
Even as Senyar weakened, Cyclone Ditwah developed over the Bay of Bengal and moved toward Sri Lanka and southern India. The storm made landfall in Sri Lanka, unleashing catastrophic floods and landslides. The death toll rose sharply within days, with hundreds more reported missing, prompting officials to call it one of the most serious natural disasters the country has faced.
In India, Ditwah did not directly strike the coastline but brought intense rainfall to Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Flood-related incidents claimed lives and triggered emergency alerts in vulnerable districts.
Forecasters are also tracking another weather system near Vietnam, raising concerns of further rainfall in regions already weakened by repeated storms. While conditions are expected to gradually stabilize, the back-to-back cyclones have highlighted the growing threat of extreme weather in the Indian Ocean region.
The rare intensity and unusual paths of these storms have renewed warnings about climate volatility, as warming oceans continue to fuel stronger and more unpredictable cyclones.

Back-to-Back Cyclones Devastate Southeast Asia

Senyar and Ditwah storms kill over 1,000, displace thousands across Asia

Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu and filmmaker Raj Nidimoru were married on Monday in a simple ceremony at the Isha Foundation in Coimbatore. 
The couple made the announcement public after Samantha posted photographs of the event on social media.
Samantha shared images of the two exchanging rings, captioned &ldquo;01.12.2025&rdquo; accompanied by white heart emojis. 
In one of the photographs, Raj is seen placing a ring on Samantha&rsquo;s finger in front of Linga Bhairavi. 
Another picture shows the couple embracing, with Samantha displaying her ring.
She also posted pictures from the traditional ceremony, including moments of the couple taking aarti and kneeling before the idol. 
A final image showed the two walking through a flower-adorned doorway. 
Raj wore a white kurta paired with a beige Nehru jacket, while Samantha chose a red and gold saree adorned with fresh flowers.
Congratulatory messages from fellow actors Anupama Parameswaran, Nimrat Kaur, Dimple Hayathi and others soon appeared in the comments section of her post.
Relationship timeline
Speculation about the couple&rsquo;s relationship began in early 2024, though both Samantha and Raj refrained from confirming it publicly. 
Raj had not announced a separation from his first wife, Shhyamali De, while Samantha had previously divorced actor Naga Chaitanya in 2021. 
The two were later seen together at public events, leading to further assumptions. 
There were also rumours regarding the couple moving in together, which Samantha&rsquo;s team had denied at the time.

Samantha and Raj exchange rings at ceremony

Samantha and Raj tie the knot in a serene ceremony at Coimbatore’s Isha Foundation

Samantha Ruth Prabhu Marries Raj Nidimoru

Cyclone Ditwah weakened into a deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal and continued moving northwards at 10 kmph, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting further weakening into a depression by Monday noon.
According to the IMD, the centre of the deep depression was located about 50 km from the north Tamil Nadu&ndash;Puducherry coasts in an update released at 2 a.m. 
The agency had earlier issued a red category warning for north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts.
Tamil Nadu Revenue and Disaster Management Minister KKSSR Ramachandran said on Sunday that three people had died in rain-related incidents triggered by the weather system.
The IMD said the depression was situated at 11:30 p.m. on Sunday about 90 km south-southeast of Chennai, 90 km east-southeast of Puducherry, 110 km east-northeast of Cuddalore and 180 km north-northeast of Karaikal.
The system is expected to track nearly northwards along the Tamil Nadu&ndash;Puducherry coastline and weaken further by Monday noon. 
By Monday morning, it is likely to remain positioned over the southwest Bay of Bengal at a minimum distance of about 30 km from the coast.
As the system weakens, isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chennai, Chengalpattu, Vellore and Ranipet districts. 
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai predicted light to moderate rain at a few locations across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, with possible thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas.
Gale winds of 60&ndash;70 kmph, with gusts up to 80 kmph, are expected over north coastal Tamil Nadu and the Puducherry&ndash;Karaikal region. 
Squally winds of 55&ndash;65 kmph, gusting to 75 kmph, may prevail over adjacent coastal areas of Tamil Nadu.
South coastal Andhra Pradesh and the Rayalaseema region are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall at most places, with isolated heavy showers. 
Similar conditions are forecast for north coastal Andhra Pradesh on Monday, while Odisha may witness widespread light to moderate rain and isolated heavy rainfall in its southern districts.
Sri Lanka&rsquo;s disaster agency reported on Sunday that the death toll from floods and landslides caused by Cyclone Ditwah climbed to 334, with nearly 400 people missing and more than 1.3 million affected.
The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka said the final group of stranded Indian passengers had been evacuated under Operation Sagar Bandhu at Colombo&rsquo;s Bandaranaike International Airport. 
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said another Indian Air Force aircraft arrived in Colombo on Sunday carrying disaster-response supplies under the operations.
While several Tamil Nadu districts had earlier announced school and college closures, as of December 1 there is no confirmed statewide update. 
Students have been advised to contact their institutions directly. 
In Puducherry, however, all private and government-aided institutions across its four regions will remain closed on Monday, Minister A. Namassivayam announced.

Dark storm clouds over Tamil Nadu coastal shoreline

Ditwah weakens but coastal Tamil Nadu braces for more rain, wind and disruptions

Cyclone Ditwah Weakens, Heavy Rain To Persist

At least 12 people were killed and more than 40 others injured after two Tamil Nadu government buses collided head-on near Kummangudi village, close to Kundrakkudi, in Sivaganga district on Sunday evening, officials said.
The impact of the collision was devastating, with several passengers dying at the site and many others trapped inside the wreckage. Rescue efforts continued for hours as police, emergency teams, and local residents worked together to pull victims out of the mangled buses.
Preliminary information suggests that both buses were travelling in opposite directions on a narrow road when the crash occurred. Authorities are examining possible causes, including excessive speed, poor visibility, and driver fatigue.
The injured were rushed to government and private hospitals in Sivaganga and Karaikudi. Doctors said multiple victims suffered fractures, head injuries, and severe trauma, and several remain in critical condition.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic soon after the crash, with injured passengers crying for help while shattered glass and twisted metal littered the road. Locals reportedly broke open bus doors and windows to rescue those trapped inside.
Traffic movement was disrupted for nearly an hour before police cleared the debris and restored normal flow.
The Sivaganga crash has once again highlighted the growing concern over fatal road accidents in Tamil Nadu. Only days earlier, six people, including five women, lost their lives in a head-on collision between two private buses in Tenkasi district.
Tamil Nadu continues to report one of the highest numbers of road accidents in the country, recording over 67,000 crashes in 2023 alone nearly 14 per cent of India&rsquo;s total. While enforcement drives and awareness campaigns have led to a marginal drop in fatalities this year, major accidents involving buses and heavy vehicles continue to claim lives.
Recent months have seen a rise in fatal crashes in districts such as Trichy, Salem, and Villupuram. Authorities point to speeding, long driving hours, and poor adherence to safety norms as key concerns.
The latest incident has renewed demands for stricter monitoring of government buses, regular driver fitness checks, improved road design on accident-prone stretches, and tougher action against traffic violations.
Police have launched a detailed investigation, and district officials are expected to submit a comprehensive report as victim identification and accident analysis continue. [Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

12 Killed as Two Buses Crash in Tamil Nadu

Head-on collision in Sivaganga leaves 12 dead and over 40 injured

A deepening cyclonic system over the southwest Bay of Bengal prompted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for Tiruvallur and Ranipet on Sunday, warning of extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds as Cyclone Ditwah moves closer to the Tamil Nadu&ndash;Puducherry coast.
The IMD also placed Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Villupuram under an orange alert, forecasting very heavy to extremely heavy rain through the day. 
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, said Tiruvannamalai, Vellore, Tirupattur, Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri are also expected to experience sustained heavy rainfall.
Several other districts including Salem, Kallakurichi and Cuddalore, along with Puducherry, are likely to receive significant showers as the cyclone&rsquo;s outer rain bands spread inland.
Strong winds remain a major concern, with speeds expected to reach up to 75 kmph across the southern coastal and delta districts of Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur and Pudukottai. 
Northern coastal areas and Puducherry may experience winds touching 80 kmph, posing risks to trees, power lines and vulnerable structures.
Officials indicated that rainfall intensity may reduce across most districts by Sunday, except Tiruvallur, as the cyclone weakens after interacting with land.
Disaster response units have been deployed across affected regions, and district administrations have urged residents to stay indoors, avoid flooded zones and monitor official advisories.
Authorities said the next 24 hours are crucial in ensuring public safety, advising residents to keep emergency supplies ready and avoid rivers, coastal stretches and waterlogged areas until conditions stabilise.
&mdash;IANS

Cyclone clouds gather over Tamil Nadu coastline

IMD warns of extreme rainfall as Cyclone Ditwah intensifies near TN coast

TN On Red Alert As Cyclone Ditwah Nears

Coimbatore City Police have intensified their investigation into the gang-rape of a 20-year-old woman near Coimbatore International Airport. Authorities confirmed that the chargesheet is expected to be filed before December 4.
City Police Commissioner A. Saravana Sundar is directly overseeing the probe to ensure timely completion. The investigation team has sought custody of the three arrested suspects for further questioning, with the petition scheduled to be heard by the Additional Mahila Court.
The accused, T. Karuppasamy alias Satheesh (30), his brother T. Kaleeswaran alias Karthik (21), and their relative M. Guna alias Thavasi (20) from Madurai district, are currently in judicial custody at Coimbatore Central Prison.
The incident occurred on the night of November 2-3, when the trio allegedly attacked a young couple in a secluded area behind a private college. The boyfriend, 25, was beaten before the woman was gang-raped. The case has drawn widespread condemnation, prompting swift action from authorities.
A test identification parade (TIP) conducted on November 18 confirmed the survivors&rsquo; identification of the accused, strengthening the prosecution&rsquo;s case. Police are awaiting multiple forensic reports, including medical, biological, and digital evidence, and have requested expedited processing.
A special team is monitoring all procedural aspects to ensure the investigation meets judicial standards. The final chargesheet will include evidence, witness statements, and forensic findings to enable a swift trial. [Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

Coimbatore Gang-Rape Probe to Complete Soon

Police expedite investigation of Coimbatore gang-rape; chargesheet likely before Dec 4

Gujarat Congress Internal Dispute: The countdown to the 2027 Gujarat Assembly election has already begun. The 2029 Lok Sabha election is not far away either. The Congress high command is making claims of a change of power in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhi is talking about rebuilding the Gujarat Congress from the ground up. There is talk of removing the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; and putting the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; on the field. But looking at the current state of the Gujarat Congress, one question cannot be avoided: before entering the race, will the Congress even be able to get its own team to stand in one line? Before declaring war against the BJP, the Congress is caught in a political battle within its own house. The question is bitter, but necessary: if a party cannot create unity within its own organisation, how does it expect to take on the BJP&rsquo;s formidable organisational machinery in Gujarat?
Leaders Changed, But Why Didn&rsquo;t the Problem? Keeping the 2027 Assembly and 2029 Lok Sabha elections in mind, the Congress has begun making changes to its Gujarat organisation. The high command wanted to remove the old and inactive structure and bring forward leaders with the ability to fight elections. But when a party repeatedly needs to change its state in-charge, the question becomes bigger than the capability of the individual holding the post. Mukul Wasnik was replaced by Randeep Singh Surjewala as Gujarat Congress in-charge. With the new in-charge came expectations of a new direction, a new strategy and greater discipline within the organisation. Yet, barely had Surjewala taken charge when a controversy erupted within Banaskantha Congress over the organisational structure. That is where the Congress&rsquo;s real trouble begins.
A Symptom of Congress&rsquo;s Organisational Illness Banaskantha is not an ordinary constituency. It is the only Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat that the Congress won in the 2024 general election. That makes it the biggest symbol of political hope for the Congress in Gujarat. So when differences emerge over organisational posts and responsibilities in precisely this constituency, when questions are raised over decisions taken by the state leadership, and when the district organisation itself becomes a subject of controversy, this cannot simply be dismissed as a &lsquo;local dispute&rsquo;. It is a symptom of the Congress&rsquo;s organisational illness. And if this illness continues until 2027, the BJP will be the direct beneficiary. The Congress needs to understand one basic reality: elections are not won through posters, press conferences and speeches by big leaders. Elections are won at the booth. The BJP&rsquo;s organisational machinery is active right down to the booth level. To challenge it, the Congress needs a strong network of workers, clearly defined responsibilities and a united district-level organisation. But here, the very formation of the district organisation is becoming a source of controversy. So where exactly will the Congress find the strength to challenge the BJP at the booth level?
&lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; or Obstacles in Each Other&rsquo;s Way? Rahul Gandhi talks about identifying the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; in Gujarat and bringing the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; to the forefront. It sounds attractive. But politics does not work that way. Simply choosing good horses does not guarantee victory in a race. The horses must run together rather than pull each other down. The direction of the race must be clear. And the coaching staff cannot be fighting among themselves. Only then can a team win. The Gujarat Congress&rsquo;s problem may not simply be about &lsquo;which leader should be promoted&rsquo;. The real problem is whether the leaders who are brought forward will actually work together. Mukul Wasnik is gone. Randeep Singh Surjewala has arrived. The state in-charge has changed. But if factionalism remains unchanged, internal power struggles remain unchanged, coordination between the district and state organisations remains weak, and organisational decisions themselves continue to trigger controversy, then what exactly is the Congress talking about when it talks of change? Changing faces will not change the Congress&rsquo;s fortunes. Its working style must change. Leadership accountability must be fixed. Factionalism must be brought under control. And above all, the party worker must be given confidence that the Congress is genuinely one team. Because if the Congress wants to fight the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other.
When Will the Political Infighting Within Gujarat Congress End? The biggest illusion for the Congress in the 2027 election would be to assume that public anger against the BJP will automatically translate into Congress votes. Politics does not work that simply. Reaching voters requires sustained ground-level work. It requires a booth-level organisation. It requires coordination among local leaders. It requires worker morale. And above all, it requires leadership running in one direction until election day. If even one of these five links is weak, the entire electoral calculation can collapse. For the Congress, this is no longer the time for experiments. It is the time for decisions. How many state in-charges will be changed? How many meetings will be held? How many times will the organisational structure be reshuffled? The question is no longer who the next Gujarat Congress in-charge will be. The real question is: when will the political infighting within the Gujarat Congress finally end? If every new in-charge is going to inherit the same old disputes, factionalism and internal resentment, then how can a new Congress emerge simply because a new face has arrived?
Will &lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; Remain Just Another Political Slogan? If the Congress wants to win Gujarat, it must first win within its own organisation. It must win the trust of its workers. It must win the confidence of its district organisations. It must bring its leaders onto one platform. Otherwise, the Congress will lose its internal battle before its fight against the BJP has even begun. And then the talk of &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; will remain nothing more than another political slogan. The Congress has very little time left in the race for power in 2027. If it wants to take on the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other. Because power in Gujarat will not be won through statements from the Gandhi family. It will be won through organisational strength on the ground. The final question is simple: Is the Congress preparing to defeat the BJP, or is it still calculating whom it needs to defeat inside its own house? Want to win Gujarat? Then first, win the Gujarat Congress.

Congress has set its sights on defeating the BJP in Gujarat. But there’s a bigger battle brewing inside its own house.

Congress Wants to Defeat BJP in Gujarat, But Who Will Save Congress From Itself?

Gujarat High Court Launches Study Circle for Advocates: In a major initiative to strengthen the professional skills and legal knowledge of young advocates, the High Court of Gujarat, in collaboration with the Gujarat State Judicial Academy (GSJA), has announced the launch of a Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop) for Advocates Practicing before the High Court of Gujarat with up to 10 years of practice. The programme will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad.
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal Announces Study Circle The initiative was announced by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice and Patron-in-Chief of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, Justice Sunita Agarwal, after the Flag Hoisting Ceremony held at the High Court Lawns on August 15. The announcement was made in the presence of Justice Bhargav D. Karia, Judge of the Gujarat High Court and President of GSJA, members of the Board of Governors of GSJA, other High Court judges, Senior Advocates and members of the Bar.
Focus on Legal Education and Professional Skills The new Study Circle is being introduced as a continuous legal learning and professional development programme for young members of the Bar. The initiative aims to enhance advocates&rsquo; understanding of legal principles, legal research, drafting and advocacy skills through direct interaction with Senior Advocates and subject experts. The programme is also expected to strengthen academic engagement between the Bench and the Bar and provide advocates with an opportunity to discuss important and evolving legal issues.
Justice Sunita Agarwal Highlights Importance of Continuous Learning Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal highlighted the indispensable role of advocates in the administration of justice. She emphasized that continuous legal education has become increasingly important in an era of rapidly evolving jurisprudence. The Chief Justice also stressed that effective advocacy and strong legal research are essential components of a robust justice delivery system. She appreciated the efforts of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy in conceptualizing and developing the Study Circle programme.
Three Key Legal Modules in First Phase The first phase of the Study Circle will feature three major academic modules covering important areas of High Court practice. Module I will focus on the expanding contours of maintainability in writ jurisdiction under Article 226, an important area of constitutional and administrative law practice. Module II will cover the basic principles of Administrative Law and Second Appeals under Section 100 of the CPC, with particular emphasis on the Doctrine of Substantial Question of Law. Module III will focus on Criminal Law Jurisdiction, particularly the inherent powers of High Courts under Section 482 of the CrPC and Section 528 of the BNSS, including their scope, limitations and principles of judicial discipline.
Study Circle to Be Held Fortnightly The Study Circle is proposed to be conducted on a fortnightly basis, providing advocates with regular opportunities for legal learning and professional interaction. Future sessions will cover a wide range of subjects, including Constitutional Law, Writ Jurisdiction, Arbitration and Conciliation Law, Commercial Law, Public Interest Litigation, Service Law, Taxation Law, Admiralty Jurisdiction, Legal Ethics and Drafting Skills. The programme will also address contemporary legal issues that are particularly relevant to advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court.
Registration to Begin Soon Registration for the Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop Series) for Advocates Practicing in the High Court of Gujarat &ndash; Series of Academic Modules 2026 will begin shortly through the official website of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy. The programme is specifically intended for advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court who have up to 10 years of professional practice.
Registration Fee The registration fee for the Study Circle has been fixed at ₹100 per programme, which will be paid by each participating advocate. The workshops will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad. Advocates attending the workshops will also receive Certificates of Participation.
Major Step Towards Strengthening Justice Delivery The Gujarat High Court and Gujarat State Judicial Academy's new Study Circle is being viewed as a significant step towards professional excellence and development of the legal fraternity. By bringing young advocates, Senior Advocates and legal experts together for regular academic discussions, the initiative aims to improve legal knowledge, research and advocacy skills while strengthening the Bench-Bar relationship. The broader objective is to contribute towards a more effective and efficient justice delivery system in Gujarat.

Study Circle Launched for Advocates With Up to 10 Years of Practice

Gujarat High Court Big Move

A chilling video of the accused in the Indore MBA student murder case has sparked outrage after he was seen smiling and appearing unconcerned when questioned about the crime.
The accused, Piyush Dhanotia, was arrested for allegedly raping and murdering his 25-year-old classmate in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Police said he strangled the woman on February 10 inside his rented accommodation and later locked the room before fleeing. Her partially decomposed body was discovered days later after residents complained of a foul smell.
However, what has intensified public anger is the accused&rsquo;s demeanour. In a video that surfaced online, Dhanotia is seen smiling when reporters ask him why he committed the crime. When pressed for answers, he responded dismissively, saying that what had happened had already happened and that he would speak at the right time. Throughout the interaction, he showed no visible sign of regret.
Police officials said he admitted during interrogation that he forced the woman into sexual acts and killed her when she resisted, though he has reportedly changed his version multiple times. Investigators are also examining allegations that he circulated objectionable videos of the victim in their college WhatsApp group.
The victim&rsquo;s father has accused the accused of blackmailing his daughter with obscene images and attempting to extort money.
As the investigation continues, the accused&rsquo;s apparent lack of remorse captured on camera has become a focal point of the case, drawing sharp reactions both online and offline.
&nbsp;

Video shows MBA student murder accused laughing amid probe

Indore Murder Accused Smiles on Camera

Galgotias University has landed in controversy after showcasing a robotic dog at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 that was widely believed to be developed by its students. The robot, however, was later identified as a commercially available product made by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics.
The backlash began after a video from the summit went viral, in which a university professor introduced the robot dog, named &ldquo;Orion,&rdquo; and referred to it as being developed at the institution&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence. Social media users were quick to point out that the machine closely resembled Unitree&rsquo;s quadruped robots, which are already available globally for research and industrial use.
Unitree is known for manufacturing advanced four-legged robots designed for tasks such as inspection, obstacle navigation and research applications. Its products are often compared to models developed by global robotics players.
Following the uproar, the Greater Noida-based university issued a clarification stating that it never claimed to have built the robot. It maintained that the robodog was purchased as part of its AI investment initiatives and is being used as a research and learning tool for students. Another faculty member present at the summit reiterated that the display had been misinterpreted and that there was no attempt to conceal the original manufacturer&rsquo;s branding.
Despite the clarification, sources familiar with the developments said the university was asked to vacate its pavilion at the summit amid mounting criticism. The institution, however, denied receiving any formal directive from the organisers or the ministry.
Notably, the robotic dog was removed from display shortly after the controversy escalated online.

Robodog row sparks backlash at India AI Impact Summit 2026

Galgotias Asked to Exit AI Summit

Actor Sidharth Malhotra is mourning the loss of his father, Sunil Malhotra, who passed away recently. The actor shared the news with an emotional message on social media. His wife, Kiara Advani, has now also paid a heartfelt tribute to her father-in-law.
On Wednesday, Kiara took to Instagram to share pictures from her wedding reception, where she and Sidharth were seen smiling alongside his parents. In a deeply personal note, she remembered Sunil Malhotra as a warm, generous, and steady presence in the family. She reflected on how he welcomed her with open arms and unconditional love, describing his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Kiara wrote that his stories, laughter, and quiet strength would remain with her forever. She added that his legacy of integrity and gentleness lives on through his children and grandchildren. Concluding her message, she expressed that he would always be loved and remembered.
The couple is currently in Delhi with their family during this difficult period. Members of the film industry extended their condolences online. Jacqueline Fernandez offered prayers, while Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra shared messages of support.
On the professional front, Sidharth will next appear in Vvan: Force of The Forest, directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Mishra and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures. The film also stars Tamannaah Bhatia and is slated for release later this year.
Kiara, meanwhile, awaits the release of Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film features Yash, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, and Rukmini Vasanth in key roles. The film is expected to release on March 19, alongside Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar.

Actor pens heartfelt note after Sunil Malhotra’s passing

Kiara Mourns Sidharth’s Father

Days after 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra lost his life in a fatal SUV crash in Delhi&rsquo;s Dwarka, the father of the 17-year-old accused has expressed regret over the incident, stating that his family is &ldquo;deeply grief-stricken.&rdquo; He also confirmed that the Scorpio SUV involved in the accident is part of his commercial transport business.
The crash occurred around 11:50 am on February 3 near Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management in Sector 11, Dwarka. According to police, the SUV rammed into a Yamaha R15 motorcycle, killing Sahil on the spot. The vehicle then struck a parked Swift Dzire, injuring cab driver Ajit Singh.
Post-mortem findings revealed that Sahil sustained a fractured skull, multiple rib fractures, and an elbow injury due to the high-impact collision.
The minor driver was detained at the scene and booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rash driving, negligence causing death, and endangering life. He was later presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to an observation home. On February 10, he was granted interim bail to appear for his Class 10 board examinations.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police registered a separate case against the boy&rsquo;s father under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which holds guardians or vehicle owners accountable when a minor commits a traffic offence.
Speaking to the media after being questioned, the father said he was not in the city at the time of the accident and was unaware that his son had taken the vehicle. He stated that the family has cooperated with investigators and provided all necessary documents.
Sahil&rsquo;s mother alleged that her son was killed by a &ldquo;reckless teen&rdquo; just minutes away from his workplace. The 23-year-old, who worked part-time at an insurance firm, had plans to pursue higher studies in the United Kingdom later this year.

Minor held in SUV crash; father booked under MV Act provisions

Dwarka Crash: Accused’s Father Apologises

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday set aside a March 2025 judgment of the Allahabad High Court that had ruled that grabbing a minor girl&rsquo;s breasts and dragging her under a culvert did not amount to an attempt to rape. The apex court termed the ruling a &ldquo;patently erroneous&rdquo; application of criminal law principles.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, held that the high court had incorrectly reduced the charges from attempt to rape under Section 376 read with Section 511 of the IPC and Section 18 of the POCSO Act to lesser offences. The court restored the original summons issued by the Special POCSO Court in Kasganj, clarifying that its observations were prima facie and would not influence the trial&rsquo;s outcome.
Rejecting the high court&rsquo;s reasoning that the accused had merely &ldquo;prepared&rdquo; to commit rape, the Supreme Court reiterated the settled distinction between preparation and attempt, noting that an attempt begins when intent moves into execution. Based on the allegations, including forcibly taking the minor on a motorcycle, dragging her near a culvert, and fleeing only after she screamed, the Bench held that a prima facie case of attempt to rape was clearly made out.
The proceedings were initiated suo motu after senior advocate Shobha Gupta raised concerns over the high court&rsquo;s reasoning. The Supreme Court had earlier stayed the controversial observations and later the entire judgment.
Beyond correcting the legal error, the court addressed a broader concern about insensitivity in judicial handling of sexual offence cases. It requested the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal to constitute a five-member expert committee to frame guidelines aimed at fostering compassion and sensitivity in courts, especially in cases involving minors and vulnerable victims.
The committee, to be chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice Aniruddha Bose, has been directed to submit a report within three months. The guidelines are to be drafted in simple, accessible language and tailored to Indian realities to ensure they are understandable to victims and laypersons alike.

Top court restores rape attempt charge, seeks sensitivity guidelines

SC Sets Aside HC Order in POCSO Case

India&rsquo;s merchandise imports from Russia plunged by over 40% in January 2026, falling to about $2.86 billion from $4.81 billion a year earlier, official trade figures show, largely reflecting a steep reduction in crude oil purchases.
Crude oil typically accounts for roughly 80% of India&rsquo;s imports from Russia, and estimates suggest purchases of Russian crude last month were significantly lower than in previous years. Other goods imported from Russia include coal, fertilisers, iron, pulses, and precious stones, but these have not offset the slump in oil imports. The downturn in oil imports intensified after mid-2025, following punitive tariffs levied by the United States on Indian goods connected to purchases of Russian oil and ongoing diplomatic pressure. India&rsquo;s refiners, including some major private and state firms, have substantially reduced or halted buying Russian crude as they explore alternative sources.
In early February 2026, Washington eased the additional tariff on Indian products after New Delhi signalled a commitment to &ldquo;stop directly or indirectly importing&rdquo; Russian oil and to increase purchases of energy products from the United States, as well as broadening ties in global energy markets.
Analysts expect the shift in crude sourcing to continue, with Indian refiners eyeing other suppliers, including Middle Eastern and Venezuelan grades, as part of broader diversification strategies.

January sees 40% fall in Russia merchandise imports amid crude cutbacks

India’s Russia Imports Drop Sharply

A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Andhra Pradesh&rsquo;s Annamayya district for allegedly abducting and murdering a seven-year-old girl from his neighbourhood in Madanapalle town.
The child had been playing outside her home on Sunday evening when she went missing, sparking panic among her family and local residents. A missing complaint was filed the following morning, prompting an intensive search operation led by district police.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from across the town, which reportedly showed the suspect, a neighbour living opposite the victim&rsquo;s house, taking the child into his residence. Acting on this lead, police searched the house on Tuesday morning.
During the inspection, officers discovered the girl&rsquo;s body concealed inside a water storage drum within the premises. The accused was present at the house at the time and was immediately taken into custody.
Preliminary findings suggest the child was killed inside the residence on Sunday night, and her body was hidden thereafter. Authorities are probing whether sexual assault occurred before the murder, with confirmation pending post-mortem and forensic examination results.
Following the discovery, tensions escalated in the area. Residents and family members staged a protest on the Madanapalle highway, briefly preventing police from shifting the body to the government hospital for autopsy and demanding strict punishment for the accused.
Police have stated that all possible angles, including prior allegations of inappropriate behaviour by the suspect, are being examined as the investigation continues.

Child’s body found in drum; protest erupts in Madanapalle town

7-Year-Old Killed, Neighbour Arrested

The United States and Iran held their second round of indirect negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened regional tensions. While both sides indicated forward movement in discussions, parallel military developments have added complexity to the fragile engagement.
Reports suggest the US has significantly reinforced its military presence in the Middle East. Over 50 advanced fighter aircraft, including F-35, F-22 and F-16 jets, were reportedly repositioned to the region within a 24-hour window. The deployment follows Washington&rsquo;s decision to send a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to Middle Eastern waters, underscoring its strategic posture.
Despite the show of force, the Geneva discussions were described as substantive and focused. Iranian officials signalled that preliminary understandings were reached on broad guiding principles that could shape a future agreement. However, they cautioned that drafting and finalising any deal would take time.
On the American side, officials maintained that the talks unfolded largely as anticipated. Washington&rsquo;s core objective remains preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a position repeatedly emphasised by senior US leadership.
Meanwhile, regional tensions persisted. Iran temporarily restricted navigation in parts of the Strait of Hormuz during a naval drill, highlighting the waterway&rsquo;s vulnerability. Additionally, US leaders suggested that differences remain over key conditions laid out by President Donald Trump.
As diplomacy continues, both nations appear to be balancing dialogue with deterrence, leaving the broader geopolitical landscape uncertain.

Second Geneva round shows progress as military moves raise stakes

Chennai News