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Supreme Court Quashes Delhi High Court Stay on Discharge of SS Wazir in TS Wazir Murder Case

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Supreme Court Quashes Delhi High Court Stay on Discharge of SS Wazir in TS Wazir Murder Case
The Supreme Court on Friday quashed and set aside the Delhi High Court’s decision to stay a trial court order discharging former President of Jammu and Kashmir State Gurdwara Parbandhak Board Sudershan Singh Wazir in a murder case (Sudarshan Singh Wazir v. State (NCT of Delhij]. A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan ruled, “We have held that order of stay on discharge should never be granted unless circumstances are exceptional. Hence this Ex-parte order of stay is entirely illegal.” Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, In November 2024, the Court had stayed the High Court decision and expressed shock over it. “How can an order of discharge be stayed? It is completely unheard of. Absolute shocking affairs. If the Court will start staying order of discharge, then trial will proceed. How can this happen? We will have to set down the law. The manner in which power is exercise by High Court, Justice Oka had orally remarked then. Wazir, a prominent Sikh leader, had been arrested by the Delhi Police in February 2023 in connection with the murder of former National Conference (NC) leader Trilochan Singh Wazir in September 2021. However, he and two others were discharged by the trial court on October 20, 2023. The murder charges were framed against only one accused, Harmeet Singh. Interestingly, the very next day after the trial court decision, the State mentioned a revision petition before the High Court. While issuing notice on the State’s plea, Justice Vikas Mahajan stayed the operation of the discharge order. Since Wazir had already been released after he was cleared of the charges, the Delhi Police later moved an application for his surrender. The same was allowed by Justice Anish Dayal on November 4. Wazir then moved the top court. Granting him relief, the Court had also stayed the subsequent High Court order asking him to surrender.  

CONGRESS FLAGS INCOME INEQUALITY, CALLS FOR POLICY SHIFT

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CONGRESS FLAGS INCOME INEQUALITY, CALLS FOR POLICY SHIFT

The Congress party has raised concerns over India’s low consumption expenditure and rising inequality, calling for a shift in economic policymaking towards bottom-up empowerment. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh, citing the Indus Valley Annual Report 2025, highlighted that India’s per capita consumption expenditure is just USD 1,493—less than a third of China’s.

India’s consumption of key lifestyle goods remains significantly low. For example, India accounted for only 7% of global air conditioner sales, compared to China’s 55%. Ramesh noted that India’s “consuming class” comprises only 30 million households, about 10% of the population, while nearly 1 billion people lack the income to afford discretionary goods.

Addressing Economic Disparities

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed similar concerns, stating that 100 crore out of India’s 140 crore population struggle to afford anything beyond essential expenses. “The economic injustice during BJP rule has become a curse for the poor and middle class,” she remarked.

Ramesh criticized the government’s failure to address wage stagnation and rising household indebtedness. He called for an increase in MGNREGA wages to counter inflation and stimulate rural incomes. “The way out of this quagmire is to shift the focus of policymaking from cronyism to bottom-up empowerment,” he stated.

As economic disparities widen, Congress continues to press for policy reforms that prioritize income growth and financial security for India’s lower and middle-income groups.

INDIAN ICE HOCKEY TEAM MEETS LADAKH LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

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INDIAN ICE HOCKEY TEAM MEETS LADAKH LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

The Indian men’s Ice Hockey team recently visited the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), at the Lt Governor’s Secretariat following their participation in the Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China. The unranked team competed against higher-ranked teams, securing a victory against Macau in one of their four matches.

The Lieutenant Governor praised the team’s performance and encouraged them to strive for greater achievements in future competitions. He emphasized the need to improve ice hockey management in Ladakh, suggesting the establishment of an Ice Hockey Federation affiliated with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). He stated that this federation should be Ladakh-based and locally managed to support the sport’s development and promote local talent.

The Lieutenant Governor also stressed the importance of raising ice hockey standards in Ladakh and urged the team to mentor future generations. He assured them that the UT Administration would finalize a Sports Policy, which would include sports quotas in government jobs for eligible sportspersons from Ladakh.

In response, the team expressed their gratitude for the support they received and requested the implementation of sports quotas for local athletes in government jobs.

MANIPUR GOVERNOR EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR SURRENDER OF ILLEGAL ARMS

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MANIPUR GOVERNOR EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR SURRENDER OF ILLEGAL ARMS

Imphal – Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Friday extended the deadline for the surrender of looted and illegal arms until 4 PM on March 6, following demands from both hill and valley areas for additional time, an official statement said.

“Upon the expiry of the seven-day deadline for the voluntary surrender of arms, there have been requests from both the valley and hill areas to extend the period. I have considered these requests and decided to extend the deadline until 4 PM on March 6,” the statement read.

The statement further assured that no punitive action would be taken against those who surrender their weapons within this period, emphasizing that “this is the last opportunity for everyone concerned to contribute to peace, communal harmony, the future of our youth, and the security of our society.”

Governor Bhalla had earlier urged warring groups to voluntarily surrender weapons robbed from security forces and other illegally held arms within seven days. The deadline ended on Thursday, during which more than 300 weapons were surrendered by the public, primarily in the valley districts.

Ongoing Ethnic Tensions

Since May 2023, ethnic violence between the Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups has claimed the lives of more than 250 people and rendered thousands homeless. In response to the unrest, the Centre imposed President’s Rule in Manipur on February 13 after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned. The state assembly, which has a tenure until 2027, has been put under suspended animation.

With this extended deadline, the administration hopes to further stabilize the region and foster long-term peace. The government has reiterated its commitment to restoring order and ensuring the safety of all citizens.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen Visits India for High-Level Talks

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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen Visits India for High-Level Talks

New Delhi – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in New Delhi today for a two-day visit aimed at deepening India-EU ties. She is accompanied by the European Union College of Commissioners, marking the first-ever visit of EU Commissioners to India.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with President von der Leyen and expressed appreciation for her commitment to reenergizing India’s engagement with Europe. “The wide-ranging participation of Indian Ministers and EU Commissioners during this visit stands testimony to the importance we place on deeper India-EU ties,” he stated in a post on X.

A Trusted Strategic Partner

Upon her arrival, President von der Leyen emphasized the significance of India-EU relations. “In an era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends. For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally,” she posted on X.

The European Commission President was received at the airport by Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel. Later, she visited Raj Ghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, recalling his message of universal peace.

Key Meetings and Agenda

President von der Leyen is set to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow at Hyderabad House. Their discussions will be followed by press statements. The visit will also include the second ministerial meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) and several bilateral meetings between European Commissioners and their Indian counterparts.

India and the European Union, strategic partners since 2004, have expanded cooperation across multiple sectors. This visit marks a significant milestone as both sides enter the third decade of their partnership, with growing convergences in trade, technology, and security.

Historical Context and Economic Ties

This marks President von der Leyen’s third visit to India. She previously visited in April 2022, where she announced the establishment of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council. She also attended the G20 Leaders’ Summit in India in September 2023. In the wake of the European Parliamentary elections in June 2024, Prime Minister Modi and President von der Leyen met on the sidelines of the G20 Rio Summit in November 2024.

Bilateral trade between India and the EU has reached new heights. In the fiscal year 2023-24, bilateral trade in goods stood at US$135 billion, making the EU India’s largest trading partner. Bilateral trade in services reached US$53 billion, registering its highest-ever value. EU investments in India are valued at over US$117 billion, with around 6,000 European companies present in the country. Meanwhile, India’s investments in the EU stand at approximately US$40 billion.

Paving the Way for Stronger Cooperation

As President von der Leyen’s visit unfolds, it is expected to further enhance India-EU cooperation, particularly in trade, technology, and security. With both sides recognizing each other as key strategic allies, this visit is poised to set the stage for deeper collaboration and mutual growth.

PM Modi Reviews Ayush Sector, Calls for Holistic Health and Global Expansion

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PM Modi Reviews Ayush Sector, Calls for Holistic Health and Global Expansion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a high-level review meeting of the Ayush sector on Thursday, stressing the need for holistic health, standard protocols, and global expansion in yoga, naturopathy, and pharmacy.

Chairing the meeting at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, the Prime Minister underscored the sector’s vital role in holistic well-being, preserving traditional knowledge, and strengthening India’s wellness ecosystem.

Since the formation of the Ministry of Ayush in 2014, Modi has envisioned a clear roadmap for its growth, acknowledging its vast potential, according to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

Key Highlights of the Review

  • Strategic Interventions: Modi emphasized the need for policy support, research, and innovation to unlock the full potential of Ayush.
  • Global Expansion: Focus on enhancing India’s presence as a leader in traditional medicine.
  • Economic Growth: The sector’s market size has surged from USD 2.85 billion in 2014 to USD 23 billion in 2023.
  • Scientific Validation: The Ayush Research Portal now hosts over 43,000 studies, with research publications in the last decade surpassing the total of the previous 60 years.
  • Medical Tourism Boost: The introduction of the Ayush visa aims to attract international patients seeking holistic healthcare solutions.
  • Infrastructure Strengthening: Collaboration with premier institutions and the integration of AI-driven initiatives under the Ayush Grid.
  • WHO Recognition: Establishment of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, solidifying India’s leadership in traditional medicine.
  • Digital Promotion: The iGot platform will host holistic Y-Break yoga content, leveraging digital technologies for wider accessibility.
  • International Day of Yoga (IDY): Over 24.52 crore people participated in IDY 2024, with 2025 marking the 10th anniversary and an expected increase in global participation.

Government’s Commitment to Transparency & Growth

Prime Minister Modi reiterated that transparency must be the foundation of all operations within the sector, directing all stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of integrity.

The Ayush sector has witnessed remarkable achievements, including its integration into the WHO’s International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-11 and the expansion of the National Ayush Mission, enhancing infrastructure and accessibility across India.

The meeting was attended by Union Health Minister J P Nadda, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Prataprao Jadhav, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister P K Mishra, and other senior officials.

With a renewed focus on innovation, research, and global outreach, India continues to cement its position as a global leader in traditional medicine and holistic health.

PHE Workers Continue Protest for Regularization and Pending Wages

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PHE Workers Continue Protest for Regularization and Pending Wages

The Jal Shakti (PHE) Department workers and daily wagers staged a massive protest demonstration outside the Chief Engineer’s office on BC Road, Jammu, demanding regularization of their services and release of pending wages.

Ongoing Protest Amidst Delayed Wages

Under the banner of PHE United Front, the protest was led by Rajinder Singh Taj and other United Front leaders. The agitated workers assembled at the PHE Complex, BC Road, Jammu, and raised slogans against the administration for its failure to address their long-pending issues.

Despite 84 months of unpaid wages, assurances from the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, and multiple rounds of talks with higher authorities, no concrete steps have been taken towards their regularization. Their strike has now continued for over 800 days, making it one of the longest-running protests in the region.

Union Leaders Voice Their Demands

Speaking to media personnel, Rajinder Singh Taj highlighted the plight of thousands of PHE workers who have been struggling for their rights since June 2022.

  • “Despite several meetings and promises, nothing has changed for us. Our families are on the verge of starvation. The government must act now,” said Taj.
  • He reminded the National Conference (NC) and Congress of their election promises regarding regularization of services and demanded their intervention in the upcoming budget session.
  • The implementation of SRO 64, which was abolished in March 1994, remains another key demand of the protestors.

Massive Expansion, No Recruitment

The protestors pointed out that since 1994, over 7,000 new Water Supply Schemes have been introduced, with 1,089 new schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission in Jammu region alone. Despite this, no new employees have been recruited.

  • “Each tube well requires at least six workers, yet we are overburdened with responsibilities without permanent employment,” the protestors stated.

Participation from Across the Region

Braving heavy rains, workers from Akhnoor, Nowshera, Samba, Udhampur, Reasi, Kathua, and other districts joined the protest, showcasing the widespread discontent among PHE employees.

Workers’ Dire Situation

Union representatives Ravi Hans, Hoshiar Singh, Navdeep Singh, and Mohan Lal Sharma addressed the gathering and emphasized the dire financial situation faced by the workers.

  • “Many of us are unable to pay our children’s school fees or afford basic necessities. The government must release our wages immediately,” they said.

Call for Government Action

The protestors accused the LG Administration and BJP leadership of neglecting their grievances and warned of intensified agitation if their demands are not met.

As the protest continues, all eyes are on the administration to take decisive action and address the genuine concerns of the PHE workers who keep the region’s water supply system running.

RAINS, LANDSLIDES, AND FLASH FLOODS WREAK HAVOC IN JAMMU REGION

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RAINS, LANDSLIDES, AND FLASH FLOODS WREAK HAVOC IN JAMMU REGION

Three Killed, Several Feared Washed Away; Highways Blocked, Avalanche Hits Kishtwar

Death and Destruction as Nature Unleashes Fury

Jammu region witnessed widespread devastation as heavy rains, landslides, and flash floods led to multiple casualties and severe damage across various districts.

  • Three persons killed and three feared washed away in Suran River.
  • A youth washed away in a nallah in Reasi district.
  • A temple damaged by lightning in Samba.
  • Jammu-Srinagar National Highway closed due to landslides and shooting stones in Ramban sector.

Major Highway Blocked

The Jammu-Kishtwar highway was blocked for over five hours due to landslides near Faggumarh (Drabshalla). However, the route was cleared by 11 AM.

A massive avalanche hit Beigpura area in Chhatroo, Kishtwar, but no casualties were reported. Another avalanche struck Pingrari area of Dachhan, fortunately occurring away from human settlements.

Deadly Accidents & Road Mishaps

A tragic accident in Poonch claimed one life and left two CRPF personnel injured when a boulder struck a Scorpio vehicle hired by CRPF in Madana. The driver, Wahid Ahmed, was killed instantly, while the injured officers were rushed to the hospital.

In another incident, a Xylo vehicle slipped into the Suran River near Kalai Bridge, leading to a rescue operation for seven survivors while three people remain missing.

A Tipper truck fell into a gorge in Bafliaz, Surankote, killing the driver and injuring the helper.

Flooding and Infrastructure Damage

The Mendhar market suffered severe waterlogging, with streets and shops submerged. Local businesses have reported huge financial losses due to the lack of a proper drainage system.

A footbridge in Dessa, Doda, was damaged due to heavy rains and flash floods, cutting off access to several villages.

Jammu-Srinagar Highway Hit by Landslides

The crucial Jammu-Srinagar highway remained shut due to landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones at multiple locations including Mehar, Dalwas, Cafeteria Morh, Gangroo, Marog, and Panthyal Tunnel.

Extreme Weather Hits Kashmir

  • Heavy snowfall continued for the third consecutive day across Kashmir.
  • Avalanche struck Khandiyal village in Gurez Valley, damaging two houses.
  • Officials recorded up to five feet of snow in some regions, including Affrawat, Kangdori, and Gulmarg.

Weather Forecast

  • March 1-2: Cloudy weather with light rain and snowfall at scattered locations.
  • March 3: Light to moderate rain and snow expected.
  • March 4-8: Weather likely to remain dry.

Authorities have urged residents in avalanche-prone areas to exercise caution. Relief and rescue operations are underway across the affected regions.

 

Vidarbha’s Nair-Malewar Stand Rescues Team After Early Blows in Ranji Trophy Final

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Vidarbha’s Nair-Malewar Stand Rescues Team After Early Blows in Ranji Trophy Final

A horrible mix-up cost Karun Nair (86) a well-deserved century, but his 215-run partnership with Danish Malewar (138 not out) guided Vidarbha to a strong 254/4 at stumps on Day 1 of the Ranji Trophy final against Kerala in Nagpur.

Vidarbha found themselves in deep trouble at 24/3, with Kerala’s seamers striking early. However, Nair and Malewar counterattacked brilliantly, consuming 414 deliveries in a gritty fourth-wicket stand that turned the tide in the hosts’ favor.

Just when it seemed Nair was set for a hundred, a poorly judged single ended his innings. In the 82nd over, Eden Apple Tom bowled a delivery that swung more than expected, forcing wicketkeeper Mohammed Azharuddeen to move to his right. The ball slipped past him and the first slip, prompting both batters to attempt a risky run. Rohan Kunnummal at second slip reacted swiftly, executing a direct hit at the striker’s end, catching Nair short of his crease.

Frustrated, Nair (86 off 188 balls, 8x4s, 1x6s) threw his bat in agony, but his valuable knock helped Vidarbha recover. He also played the role of a mentor, guiding the young Malewar through a challenging phase.

Malewar, the 21-year-old batting at No. 4, remained unbeaten on 138 off 259 balls, registering his second First-Class century in his debut season. His innings, filled with elegant strokes, saw him score 14 fours and 2 sixes, with the bulk of his runs coming in the midwicket and long-on regions.

Earlier, Kerala’s bowlers exploited the green-top wicket expertly. MD Nidheesh (2/33) was particularly impressive, using the fresh grass to extract movement off the surface. Playing in their maiden Ranji final, Kerala had Vidarbha on the ropes before the resilient fourth-wicket partnership turned the tables.

With Malewar still at the crease, Vidarbha will look to build on their formidable first-day total and push towards a commanding position in the summit clash.

Afghanistan Stuns England in Champions Trophy, Earns Praise from Cricket Legends

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Afghanistan Stuns England in Champions Trophy, Earns Praise from Cricket Legends

The legendary Sachin Tendulkar led the cricketing world in applauding Afghanistan’s stunning eight-run victory over England in the Champions Trophy, asserting that their wins can no longer be termed as “upsets.”

Batting first, Ibrahim Zadran’s sensational 177 off 146 balls propelled Afghanistan to 325/7 in Lahore on Wednesday. In response, Azmatullah Omarzai’s five-wicket haul (5/58) dismantled England’s chase, restricting them to 317 all out, keeping Afghanistan’s semifinal hopes alive.

Tendulkar hailed Afghanistan’s meteoric rise in international cricket, stating:

“Afghanistan’s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can’t term their wins as upsets anymore, they’ve made this a habit now. A superb century by @IZadran18 and a wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzay sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan. Well played!”

Meanwhile, Ravi Shastri took a dig at England’s struggles in subcontinental conditions, urging them to adapt.

“Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi! For England: Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then will you be recognised as a team that can TRAVEL,” Shastri wrote.

Ajay Jadeja, who mentored Afghanistan during the 2023 World Cup, also showered praise on the team and their passionate fans, calling them the “most humble and passionate” supporters.

Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar backed Afghanistan to go beyond the semifinals, while former England captain Michael Vaughan admitted that England’s lackluster white-ball form led to their downfall.

“Brilliant from Afghanistan… Thoroughly deserved win. England just haven’t played good enough white-ball cricket for a couple of years. This result isn’t a surprise in these conditions,” Vaughan remarked.

With this victory, Afghanistan continues to shake up the cricketing world, proving they are now a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.

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