daily-media

[daily-media]

Rajeev Jhawar: Industrial Leader and Strategic Visionary

Name: Rajeev Jhawar Position: Managing Director & Executive Director, Usha Martin Ltd.

Rajeev Jhawar is a prominent Indian industrialist with over three decades of extensive experience in strategic management and corporate leadership. As the Managing Director of Usha Martin Ltd., he has played a pivotal role in steering the company towards sustained growth and innovation since assuming the position on May 19, 2008.

Education

Undergraduate Degree: London Business School

Additional Education: St. Xavier's College, Ranchi University

Career Journey

Rajeev began his professional journey at Usha Martin as Senior Vice President (Commercial) before ascending to the role of Managing Director in 1998. Under his leadership, the Usha Martin Group has transformed significantly, enhancing stakeholder value and establishing a culture of meritocracy. His sharp business acumen and strategic decision-making capabilities have driven the company to a new level of success.

In addition to his role at Usha Martin Ltd., Mr. Jhawar holds several key positions:

Director at Usha Martin International Ltd., Usha Martin UK Ltd., Usha Breco Ltd., and multiple other subsidiaries.

Chief Financial & Compliance Officer at GJ Steel Public Co., Ltd. and G Steel Public Co., Ltd.

Independent Non-Executive Director at Orient Cement Ltd., part of the CK Birla group.

Director at Neutral Publishing House Ltd., which publishes the regional newspaper 'Prabhat Khabar' across several Indian cities.

Corporate Challenges and Achievements

Usha Martin has faced numerous challenges over the years, including significant debt and internal family disputes. Notably, in 2019, the company made a strategic move by divesting its steel division to Tata, effectively addressing a substantial portion of its financial liabilities. This maneuver reduced the company's debt from Rs 4,600 crore in 2018-19 to Rs 582 crore, marking a significant turnaround.

The company is recognized globally for its diverse range of wire rope products, which are essential in various industries, including oil and offshore, cranes, mining, elevators, fishing, conveyor belts, and general engineering.

Impact of COVID-19

The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic brought about considerable disruptions and economic slowdowns, affecting Usha Martin's operations. However, under Mr. Jhawar's guidance, the company has continued to navigate these challenges while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation.

Affiliations and Memberships

Mr. Jhawar is also a member of:

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India

The Institute of Cost & Works Accountants of India

Rajeev Jhawar's leadership is marked by a dedication to strategic growth, financial stability, and an unwavering commitment to enhancing the company’s reputation and operational efficiency in a competitive market. His vision continues to guide Usha Martin Ltd. as it adapts to the ever-evolving business landscape.

[daily-media]

US Presidential Election: Harris and Trump Prepare for a Dramatic Showdown One Month Out

With just one month to go until the pivotal U.S. presidential election, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are poised to present voters with sharply contrasting visions for the nation's future. As both candidates gear up for the final campaign stretch, they emphasize that the stakes are higher than ever in this closely contested race.

The 2024 election has unfolded with numerous unexpected developments, from Harris's sudden ascent to the Democratic nomination to Trump's resilient bid for a comeback, having survived two assassination attempts. Current polling shows both candidates neck-and-neck, with Trump warning of potential chaos reminiscent of the 2020 election outcome if he does not secure victory this time.

Globally, anticipation builds as the world watches the U.S. election unfold, particularly amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where U.S. support remains crucial.

"This election is critical," stated Peter Loge, director of George Washington University's School of Media and Public Affairs. "Both candidates have framed it in apocalyptic terms."

As they hit the campaign trail, Harris and Trump will also be joined by their running mates: Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Republican Ohio Senator J.D. Vance. Their efforts will focus on seven key swing states—Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—each pivotal in deciding the election outcome.

Harris's campaign, under the banner "We're Not Going Back," aims to move past divisive politics, while Trump’s slogan "Make America Great Again" evokes a vision of a nation in distress that only he can remedy. Harris, as the first female, Black, and South Asian vice president, emphasizes her commitment to abortion rights and an "opportunity economy," though many voters remain uncertain about her policies.

In contrast, Trump, now the first convicted felon to run for president, continues to energize his base with combative rhetoric and promises to enhance the economy while targeting immigration as a key issue.

"Vice President Harris and Governor Walz are advocating for a nuanced American story, while Trump presents a straightforward narrative of strongman leadership," Loge explained. "The danger is that we might never return to a democratic process if we follow that path."

The electoral landscape has shifted dramatically over the past few months, particularly after Biden's debate performance raised concerns about his age, ultimately leading to his withdrawal from the race and the transfer of the Democratic mantle to Harris. This shift has energized her campaign, enabling her to close the polling gap and galvanize significant financial support.

As the clock ticks down, Harris maintains her position as the "underdog," with both candidates aware that a clear outcome may be delayed due to potential legal challenges and contested votes, prolonging the suspense well into January.

[daily-media]

Harris Adviser Engages with American Muslim and Arab Leaders Amid Concerns Over Israel Support

As conflict continues in the Middle East, a senior adviser to Vice President Kamala Harris held a virtual meeting with American Muslim and Arab leaders on Wednesday, aiming to address rising discontent over U.S. backing for Israel amid its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.

Phil Gordon, Harris' national security adviser, emphasized the administration's call for a ceasefire in Gaza and a focus on diplomatic efforts in Lebanon, as well as the need for stability in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. However, reactions from community leaders indicated that many feel the administration's outreach is insufficient. Lebanese-American attorney Ali Dagher remarked, "It's too little, too late," expressing dissatisfaction despite not participating in the discussion.

As Harris prepares for a challenging re-election campaign against former President Donald Trump on November 5, her administration faces mounting pressure to respond to the concerns of Muslim and Arab voters, whose support has waned significantly since the escalation of violence in Gaza. Recent polling suggests that President Biden's and Harris' backing among these communities has diminished sharply, attributed largely to perceptions of inadequate action against Israel's military actions.

The humanitarian toll in Gaza is severe, with Palestinian health authorities reporting over 41,000 deaths and widespread displacement among its 2 million residents. In Lebanon, nearly 1,900 fatalities have occurred during nearly a year of clashes involving Hezbollah and Israeli forces, with a significant portion of those casualties occurring recently.

Despite recent endorsements from groups like Emgage, which supports Muslim-American interests, there are calls from others within the community for voters to reconsider their support for Harris. This shift could significantly impact her campaign, particularly in key swing states like Michigan, where public sentiment against U.S. support for Israel has led to substantial protests.

With no notable differences in Israel policy from the Biden administration, Harris faces an uphill battle to regain the trust of voters disillusioned by the current trajectory of U.S. foreign policy in the region.

[daily-media]

Dozens of Captive Tigers and Lions in Vietnam Die from Bird Flu

In southern Vietnam, a tragic outbreak has led to the deaths of numerous captive tigers and lions, confirmed by the health ministry on Thursday. Over the past month, at least 20 tigers at the Mango Garden Resort in Dong Nai province tested positive for the H5N1 strain of bird flu.

Additionally, in Long An province, reports indicate that 27 tigers and three lions at My Quynh Safari succumbed to the virus between September 6 and 18.

Officials suggest that the tigers may have contracted the virus from sick chickens they were fed. Investigations are underway to trace the source of the poultry.

As concerns grow about the spread of avian influenza to mammals, the World Health Organization continues to caution against consuming undercooked meat and eggs from affected areas due to the heightened risk of transmission.

[daily-media]

UN Chief Honors Gandhi's Legacy on International Day of Non-Violence

On October 2, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres marked the International Day of Non-Violence, emphasizing Mahatma Gandhi's belief that non-violence is humanity's strongest force. He expressed concern over escalating global conflicts, stating, “The world is bristling with violence” from Ukraine to the Middle East.

Guterres highlighted Gandhi's commitment to peace, equality, and justice, urging the international community to build institutions that reflect these values. A special event at UN headquarters, titled "Gandhian Values and UN Charter," featured remarks from UN officials underscoring Gandhi's influence on global leaders like Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr.

India's UN Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish paid tribute to Gandhi, advocating for non-violence and dialogue to address today's humanitarian crises. He stressed that Gandhi's teachings remain vital for achieving peace and stability worldwide.

The event served as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Gandhi's principles, with discussions on aligning these values with the UN Charter's mission to maintain global peace and security. Critics noted the tension between Gandhian ideals and current global political dynamics, emphasizing the need for a renewed commitment to non-violence in shaping a just future.

[daily-media]

PM Keir Starmer Visits Brussels to Strengthen UK-EU Relations

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer made his inaugural visit to Brussels, aiming to mend ties and restore trust with the European Union following the contentious Brexit negotiations. Despite the rain, the atmosphere was significant, with Union and EU flags displayed prominently at the press podiums and the red carpet at the European Parliament meticulously prepared for his arrival.

Starmer was warmly welcomed by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, as he presented a comprehensive agenda focused on closer cooperation. He emphasized the need for collaboration on defense, security, energy, climate change, and addressing irregular migration, which had previously been labeled as "illegal migration" under the former Conservative government. He asserted that the British public desires sensible leadership regarding EU relations.

However, while Starmer’s messages were met with polite acknowledgment from European officials, enthusiasm was tempered by the bloc’s reluctance to engage in extended negotiations. The EU still grapples with the consequences of losing the UK as a member and is cautious about entering discussions that may lead to more deadlock.

The path to enhanced cooperation appears most viable in security and defense, particularly following the collaborative efforts to impose sanctions on Russia and bolster support for Ukraine after its invasion. Yet, a point of contention remains regarding the involvement of British businesses in the EU’s rearmament initiatives.

On migration, there’s mutual agreement on curbing people-smuggling gangs, but the approach is complicated. French and German interior ministers recently called for a formal agreement with the UK to open legal pathways for asylum seekers, noting that many irregular migrants aim to reach the UK.

In his visit to Rome, Starmer sought insights on tackling migration at its source through economic agreements in Africa and the Middle East. However, human rights advocates have criticized such deals for potentially leading to migrant abuses.

A major concern for the EU is the Labour government’s commitment to reducing trade barriers, which Brussels views as a consequence of the UK’s exit from the single market and customs union. Starmer reaffirmed that renegotiation of this stance is off the table, complicating the prospect of trade enhancements.

The UK government is pushing for smoother food and drink exports, as well as easier access for UK artists to the EU. In return, some EU member states seek increased fishing rights in UK waters. The EU also proposes a youth mobility scheme allowing young Europeans and British citizens to study and work in each other's regions for a limited period.

Despite these discussions, Starmer maintains that "free movement is a red line," aiming to sidestep contentious issues during press interactions. He emphasized that the focus of his meetings should be on the broader picture and achievable outcomes, rather than dwelling on limitations.

The European Commission insists on adherence to existing agreements—such as the Withdrawal Agreement and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement—before initiating new discussions. This summer, concerns were raised regarding compliance with several terms.

Behind-the-scenes negotiations are set to commence soon, with regular EU-UK summits scheduled for the new year. The notion that Brexit negotiations could persist indefinitely appears to be taking root once again among observers in Brussels.

[daily-media]

Fat Bear Week Kicks Off in Alaska Amid Tragedy

The annual Fat Bear Week competition has officially begun in Alaska, despite a tragic incident involving one of this year's contestants. The event, which encourages viewers to vote for their favorite brown bear as they bulk up for winter, started a day late following the fatal mauling of bear 402 by bear 469 on Monday.

The incident occurred along the Brooks River, with cameras already in place for the livestreamed event. The reasons behind the attack remain unclear, casting a somber shadow over this year’s festivities. Katmai National Park and Preserve released a statement emphasizing the survival challenges faced by these bears in their natural habitat.

Every year, brown bears at Katmai National Park consume massive quantities of salmon to prepare for hibernation, and twelve bears are selected to compete in the Fat Bear Week bracket. This year's contestants include the reigning champion, Grazer, who is raising her first cub, and last year's runner-up, Chunk.

Fat Bear Week has evolved over the past decade from a single-day event with 1,700 votes to a global celebration that attracted nearly 1.4 million votes from over 100 countries in 2023. Fans can cast their votes daily on Explore.org’s website, with the winner to be announced on October 8.

[daily-media]

Zambia Faces Severe Power Crisis Despite Hydro Potential

Zambia is currently experiencing its worst electricity blackouts in history, despite the presence of the Zambezi River and the Kariba Dam, which traditionally provide significant hydroelectric power. Many cities are enduring outages lasting up to three consecutive days, leaving residents grateful for just a few hours of electricity.

The crisis has taken many by surprise, especially the 43% of Zambians connected to the grid who have long taken reliable power for granted. The primary cause is one of the worst droughts in decades, exacerbated by the El Niño weather phenomenon, which has drastically reduced the country's power-generating capacity.

With 84% of Zambia’s electricity derived from hydro sources, the drought has severely impacted operations at the Kariba Dam, where only one of six turbines is functioning, generating a mere 7% of its installed capacity. Meanwhile, the only coal-fired power plant, Maamba Energy, has been undergoing maintenance, further limiting electricity availability.

On Wednesday, Energy Minister Makozo Chikote announced that the coal plant is now fully operational, promising at least three hours of power daily. President Hakainde Hichilema previously declared the drought a national disaster, but the government’s reliance on Kariba has hindered effective solutions.

Importing power from Mozambique and South Africa is also challenging due to financial constraints, as suppliers demand upfront payment. Despite these difficulties, the government has installed large generators in key areas to provide some relief.

Zambians are adapting to the crisis by visiting restaurants and bars primarily to charge their phones. A new business has emerged, with individuals charging devices for those lacking electricity. Meanwhile, daily life has become increasingly difficult, with reports of spoiled food, reduced business hours, and a growing reliance on portable gas stoves, which are also in short supply.

The government is encouraging a shift to solar energy and has removed import taxes on solar equipment, but many citizens find the costs prohibitive. As families turn to charcoal for cooking, environmental concerns rise alongside frustration over the government’s inability to address the ongoing crisis effectively.

With rising frustrations, Zambians are calling for better long-term planning from their leaders. The government has announced investments in alternative energy sources, including solar and coal, aiming to reduce reliance on hydro power to 60% in the future. However, critics argue that the focus on coal, a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, raises concerns about environmental sustainability.

[daily-media]

Claudia Sheinbaum Becomes Mexico's First Female President, Declares "It's Time for Women"

In a historic moment for Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum was inaugurated as the country's first female president on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in over 200 years of political history. The former mayor of Mexico City received the presidential sash to cheers of “Presidenta!” from supporters inside and outside the congressional chamber.

In her inaugural speech, Sheinbaum expressed gratitude to her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, whom she called “the most important political leader and social warrior in Mexico’s modern history.” She acknowledged the high expectations that come with his legacy, given his exceptional popularity as he leaves office.

“It is time for women,” Sheinbaum proclaimed, emphasizing the role of women in shaping the nation’s future. Her agenda closely follows López Obrador's vision, urging citizens to evaluate the progress made in recent years, such as reducing poverty and increasing the minimum wage.

She committed to enhancing public healthcare and expanding access to education, promising to create 300,000 new spaces in public universities and high schools. “Health and education are rights, not privileges,” she asserted.

However, Sheinbaum faces considerable challenges, particularly with ongoing violence related to drug cartels in regions like Sinaloa and Chiapas. Critics argue that her experience in managing Mexico City’s security may not translate to federal issues.

Despite these challenges, Sheinbaum remains optimistic, stating, “I’m a mother, grandmother, scientist, a woman of faith, and now, president!” She pledged to govern for all Mexicans and to leverage her experience for the country's advancement. “I won’t let you down,” she promised her supporters.

[daily-media]

Prosecutors Claim Trump Engaged in Crimes to Overturn 2020 Election

In a recent court filing, prosecutors allege that Donald Trump "resorted to crimes" in his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, arguing he is not protected from charges. Special Counsel Jack Smith, leading the election interference investigation, made these claims public on Wednesday.

The filing contests Trump's assertion of immunity from prosecution based on a Supreme Court ruling this summer that broadly protects official acts while in office. Prosecutors maintain that Trump's actions were not always conducted in an official capacity, labeling them a "private criminal effort" to challenge his election loss.

With no trial scheduled before the upcoming election, this 165-page document may be crucial for prosecutors to outline their case. They emphasize that Trump's alleged misconduct, including pressuring Vice President Mike Pence and spreading false claims of voter fraud, occurred outside the scope of his official duties.

The filing also reveals that Trump had planned to declare victory regardless of the outcome and sought to exploit chaos during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, to hinder the certification of President Biden’s win. Prosecutors argue that Trump's actions warrant a trial like any other citizen.

Trump's legal team has criticized the filing, with a campaign spokesman labeling it "falsehood-ridden." On his Truth Social platform, Trump condemned the document as a "hit job," asserting that it should not have been released before the election.

No trial date has been set, but Trump remains confident that the case will conclude with his "complete victory."

[daily-media]

Biden Urges Israel to Respond Proportionately Amid Concerns Over Iran's Nuclear Threats

In a recent statement, U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his opposition to Israel potentially targeting Iran's nuclear and oil facilities, emphasizing the need for a "proportional" response amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

Following reports of Israel's plans to retaliate against Iran's missile attacks, Biden reaffirmed Israel's right to defend itself but cautioned that any military action should be measured. He also engaged with G7 leaders to discuss the possibility of imposing new sanctions on Tehran in light of the escalating situati

[daily-media]

First Time In 252 Years! India Batter Achieves Historic First-Class Record

Hyderabad batter Tanmay Agarwal shattered records by slamming a triple century in just 147 deliveries during the Ranji Trophy match against Arunachal Pradesh on Friday. Hyderabad ended up scoring 529 runs in just 48 overs for the loss of one wicket with Agarwal breaking a plethora of records with his impressive knock. This was the first time ever that a batter slammed a triple century in under 150 balls in a first-class cricket match.

According to Wisden Almanack, the first 'first-class' cricket match was played in 1772 and as a result, this was the first time that this feat was achieved in around 252 years.

This was the fastest triple-century in first-class cricket as Agarwal surpassed the previous record held by Marco Marais since 2017. Agarwal's innings had 33 fours and 21 sixes - another record in first-class cricket as it is now the highest number of sixes hit in an innings beating Ishan Kishan's previous record.

The 28-year-old also become the first player to score 300-plus runs in a single day in Ranji history.

Agarwal was unbeaten on 323 off just 160 balls - the seventh-most runs scored by any batter in a single day's play in first-class cricket. It was also the second-fastest triple ton when it comes to minutes.

The records were not just limited to the triple century as Agarwal also slammed the fastest first-class double century by an Indian. He achieved the feat in 119 balls and he surpassed the previous record held by Ravi Shastri who slammed the double ton in 123 balls against Baroda in 1985. Overall, it was the second-fastest double century in the history of first-class cricket.

[daily-media]

"Woke Up To Him Raping Me": Mumbai Woman's Devastating Post For Justice

A woman was allegedly drugged and raped by a social media friend on January 13 in Mumbai. The police in south Mumbai's Worli is investigating the case.

The woman, 21, in a distressing Instagram post narrated her "most traumatic experience" when she met the accused, Heetik Shah, on the fateful night. Until then, the two had only interacted on Instagram, she said.

Heetik Shah and I went out for drinks and partying in town, starting at place A. After meeting a couple of his friends, we left for Bastian. After some tequila shots, I became intoxicated, feeling anxious and alone at the party," she said.

However, she was forced to drink some more by the accused which led her to have a blackout episode, she said, adding she suspected she was "roofied". "Being roofied" is slang for someone being raped or sexually assaulted after being drugged.

"He insisted I drink more, and I had a blackout episode, not recalling what happened next. I suspect I may have been roofied. I woke up to him raping me, and despite my efforts to stop him, he continued and even slapped me three times with intense rage, leaving me scared and intimidated," she recounted the horrific night.

The alleged rape happened at the residence of one of Mr Shah's friends, she said.

"The place turned out to be his friend's, and his friends intervened to protect him. He tried to get me out before I could call for help, even threatening me in their presence. After leaving, he attempted to flee the scene.

"I called my cousin to pick me up. Bruised and hurt, I couldn't bring myself to tell my parents about that night," she wrote.

The accused, however, apologised to her for his behaviour the next morning, the woman said, adding, "His morning apology means nothing to me, and he has absconded because he knows what he has done. 12 days have passed and he hasn't been arrested. He has applied for anticipatory bail."

The screenshot of the alleged apology read: "Hi I am genuinely sorry for whatever happened tonight didn't mean to do what happened, the situation got heated up and escalated and I'm really very sorry, I hope we can get over this and leave this behind us, I'm again very apologetic and sorry (sic)"

According to the post, Heetik Shah has been charged under the relevant Sections of the Indian Penal Code for rape and voluntarily causing hurt.

"I seek justice and urge other girls to be more wary of who they talk to and go out with," she added.

[daily-media]

Delhi Top Cop's Son Was Taken To A Wedding, Then Killed Over A Loan

Lakshya Chauhan, the 24-year-old son of Delhi Police's Assistant Commissioner Yashpal Singh, went to Haryana with two others to attend a wedding. By the end of the revelry, he was killed and his body was found in a canal.

Mr Chauhan, a lawyer at Tis Hazari court, was allegedly pushed into a canal in Haryana by two of his friends, Vikas Bhardwaj and his accomplice Abhishek, over a simmering financial dispute.

The unfolding tragedy began on Monday when Mr Chauhan, accompanied by Bhardwaj and Abhishek, set out to attend a wedding in Sonepat. When he failed to return home the next day, ACP Yashpal Singh filed a missing complaint, triggering a search operation.

As the investigation progressed, it was revealed that the financial dispute between Mr Chauhan and Bhardwaj had escalated, leading to a sinister plan to eliminate him. Bhardwaj alleged that Mr Chauhan had taken a loan and consistently refused to repay, causing tension between the two.

Abhishek, detained after a week-long search, disclosed that Bhardwaj had invited him to the marriage function and shared his grievances about Mr Chauhan. The two hatched a plan to murder the top cop's son during their return journey.

After leaving the wedding function post-midnight, the trio stopped near the Munak Canal to answer nature's call. Exploiting the situation, Bhardwaj and Abhishek allegedly pushed Mr Chauhan into the canal and fled the scene in his car.

Upon their return to Delhi, Bhardwaj dropped Abhishek in Narela before disappearing. Abhishek was later apprehended, and based on his statement, a police case was registered.

[daily-media]

"Deeply Troubling, Cruel": Huge Outcry Over 1st Nitrogen Gas Execution In US

The White House, along with the United Nations and European Union, expressed deep concern over the execution of Kenneth Smith in Alabama, marking the first-ever use of nitrogen gas for a US execution. Smith, convicted of murder, was put to death by suffocation through nitrogen gas, a method criticized by various human rights groups and advocates.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall defended the execution, stating it was conducted professionally, although concerns about Smith's apparent suffering during the process have been raised. The UN human rights chief and EU condemned the execution method, calling it potentially torturous.

Advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union, called for an end to the death penalty, citing Smith's execution as another example of the cruelty inherent in capital punishment. President Joe Biden's suspension of federal executions reflects broader concerns about the practice's consistency with American values.

Smith's execution, marred by previous botched attempts, reignited debate over the death penalty's morality and effectiveness. His final words underscored the contentious nature of capital punishment, leaving a lingering question about its place in modern society.

Despite public opinion showing a decline in support for the death penalty, as indicated by a Gallup Poll, the issue remains divisive, especially in cases like Smith's, where the method of execution raises significant ethical questions.

[daily-media]

"7 AAP MLAs Offered ₹ 25 Crore By BJP ": Arvind Kejriwal's Big Charge

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to "buy" seven Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs with an offer of ₹ 25 crore each in a bid to destabilise his government in the national capital.

Mr Kejriwal claimed that the BJP engaged in talks with the AAP legislators and purportedly threatened imminent arrest for the Delhi Chief Minister in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case. The alleged conversation involved a sinister plan to topple the AAP government in Delhi.

In a long social media post, the Delhi Chief Minister alleged, "Recently, they [BJP] has contacted 7 of our MLAs of Delhi and said - 'We will arrest Kejriwal after a few days. After that, we will break the MLAs. Talks have been held with 21 MLAs. Talking to others also. After that, we will topple the Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi. You can also come. Will give ₹ 25 crore and contest the elections on BJP ticket.'"

Despite the claim of contacting 21 MLAs, Mr Kejriwal insisted that the information available to the AAP suggests that only seven MLAs have been approached, and all of them have firmly declined the tempting offer.

"This means that I am not being arrested to investigate any liquor scam but they are conspiring to topple the Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi," Mr Kejriwal stated. "In the last nine years, they hatched many conspiracies to topple our government. But they did not get any success. God and the people always supported us. All our MLAs are also strongly together. This time also these people will fail in their nefarious intentions."

Mr Kejriwal added that the alleged attempts to destabilise his government are driven by the AAP's good work in the national capital. Despite various obstacles, Mr Kejriwal added, the people of Delhi hold immense love for AAP, making it difficult for the BJP to defeat them in elections.

[daily-media]

RJD, Congress In Huddle Amid Talks Of Nitish Kumar's Switch

Nitish Kumar will likely take oath as Bihar Chief Minister again tomorrow, a record ninth time, supported by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - mirroring a familiar script from the 2020 elections. The political churn has triggered a flurry of activities, with large-scale transfers of officers adding to the suspense. Reports of an imminent change in government are rife, casting a shadow over the current 'Mahagathbandhan' ruling coalition.

The BJP has convened a meeting of its MPs and MLAs today, ostensibly to strategise for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. State unit chief Samrat Choudhary downplayed speculations of a renewed alliance with Nitish Kumar, but BJP leaders dropped significant hints about behind-the-scenes discussions.

According to sources, Nitish Kumar has convened a session of the legislative party tomorrow. Sources have said that extensive relocations of district magistrates are underway in Bihar, coinciding with rumors of an imminent shift in the government.

Nitish Kumar will likely take oath as Bihar Chief Minister again tomorrow, a record ninth time, supported by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - mirroring a familiar script from the 2020 elections. The political churn has triggered a flurry of activities, with large-scale transfers of officers adding to the suspense. Reports of an imminent change in government are rife, casting a shadow over the current 'Mahagathbandhan' ruling coalition.

The BJP has convened a meeting of its MPs and MLAs today, ostensibly to strategise for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. State unit chief Samrat Choudhary downplayed speculations of a renewed alliance with Nitish Kumar, but BJP leaders dropped significant hints about behind-the-scenes discussions.

According to sources, Nitish Kumar has convened a session of the legislative party tomorrow. Sources have said that extensive relocations of district magistrates are underway in Bihar, coinciding with rumors of an imminent shift in the government.

Amid this political upheaval, Congress, Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United)'s partner in the opposition INDIA bloc, has also called a meeting in Purnea, while denying any connection to the evolving political scenario. The Congress plans to discuss preparations for Rahul Gandhi's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,' set to enter Bihar on Monday, with public meetings scheduled in Kishanganj, Purnea, and Katihar.

While the immediate focus appears to be on the Lok Sabha elections, sources indicate that the Bihar Assembly won't be dissolved just yet. Both the BJP and JD(U) are engaging with their respective MPs and MLAs to solidify their strategies, setting the stage for a comprehensive realignment in Bihar's political landscape.

However, the return of Nitish Kumar to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is not without its complexities. Sources have told NDTV that the intricate game plan includes the nomination of an Assembly Speaker and a cabinet reshuffle.

Former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and his Hindustan Awam Morcha are also players in this political chessboard, courted by the BJP to secure a strategic alliance.

Nitish Kumar's political journey, once synonymous with stability and development, has become a tale of flip-flops and realignments. From the acclaimed 'Sushashan Babu' to the enigmatic "Paltu Kumar," his trajectory reflects the evolving dynamics of Bihar's politics.