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Reg. No: RAJENG/2017/72755 Daily Edition · English

Breaking news headlines.

Any motion to remove CEC Gyanesh Kumar will follow parliamentary rules: Om Birla

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said any fresh Opposition motion to remove Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar would be dealt with under the procedure laid down in parliamentary rules. His remarks came amid growing protests over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, after earlier removal notices were rejected and another attempt remained pending in the Rajya Sabha. "We will follow the process when the motion is moved. Just as there is a procedure for the impeachment of judges, there is a process laid down for the CEC too… It will be followed if the opposition moves a motion," Birla said.The Opposition has already tried twice to initiate proceedings for Gyanesh Kumar's removal. Notices in the first attempt were rejected by the presiding officers of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, while notices from the second attempt are still pending in the Upper House. A fresh move would therefore be another attempt, rather than a continuation of a motion already cleared for debate.Fresh criticism followed an Indian Express investigation, which reported that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi recorded objections at least 14 times over 10 months to decisions concerning voter registration, deletions and election software. According to the report, some instructions were issued without their knowledge or approval. The Election Commission has disputed the suggestion that those notes show improper decision-making. It said differing views were part of normal internal discussions and that the Commission's decisions over the preceding year were unanimous. The allegations against Kumar have not been established through the parliamentary removal process.

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Suvendu Adhikari announces Rs 27 lakh compensation for victim’s family.Accompanied by State Industries Minister Tapas Roy, Adhikari met Sonkar’s family at their residence. He said the state government had a responsibility to support the family, even though financial compensation could not make up for the loss of life.“Today, compensation was to be given; though no compensation can make up for a death, the government has responsibility. We have given Rs 25 lakh from the government and Rs 2 lakh from the PM’s relief fund,” Adhikari told the media. He said the amount had been credited to the family’s account, adding that Sonkar had left behind two children, a son and a daughter. “The son asked for help finding a job. We will do what is in our power,” the Chief Minister said.The high-level committee will be chaired by retired Justice Anindita Roy Saraswati. Its members include the Principal Secretary of the West Bengal Disaster Management and Civil Defence Department and the Director General and Inspector General of Police for the state’s Special Task Force (STF). The panel will also include a representative of the Director General and Inspector General of Police, not below the rank of Additional Director General; a representative of the Home and Hill Affairs Department, not below the rank of Joint Secretary; and a representative of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) based in Kolkata. According to the state government’s notification, the SIT must conduct a comprehensive review of the incident and submit its final report to the government within three months from the date of the order.

CISF, NeGD sign MoU to train personnel in drone, AI and cyber security.The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National e-Governance Division (NeGD) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to train its personnel in drone operations, anti-drone systems, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity.Under the partnership, NeGD will act as the CISF's knowledge partner, identifying academic and technical institutions, Centres of Excellence and expert faculty to develop training programmes tailored to the Force's operational needs. The initiative will enable CISF personnel to receive specialised training at Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratories and other premier institutions. The MoU was signed at Electronics Niketan in New Delhi by CISF Inspector General (Training and Recruitment) Vinay Kajla and NeGD CEO Nand Kumarum, in the presence of senior officials from both organisations. The CISF delegation included DIG (Recruitment) Aditya Jha, AIG (Training) Biren Kumar Sethy and AIG, NCR Zone Headquarters, Savitoj Singh Gill. NeGD was represented by COO Rajnish Kumar, DGM Puneet Kaur and Manager Dimpal Pandey.The training programmes will focus on five areas: drone operations; anti-drone and counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS); artificial intelligence and autonomous systems; cyber security for critical infrastructure; and other emerging technologies.

Crude prices jump 5-month high amid geopolitical risk in Gulf; Brent at $110.08.Meanwhile, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 0.46 per cent or 45 cents to $99 a barrel. Crude prices also drew support from renewed Houthi attacks on a Yemeni military training camp as well as strikes targeting Saudi energy, airport and military facilities. Moreover, Brent prices have surged nearly 80 per cent so far this year as widening conflict involving the United States and Iran, alongside the escalating Russia-Ukraine war, disrupted energy supplies and heightened concerns over global crude flows. According to shipping tracking firm Kpler, at least 18 vessels were attacked over the past two weeks, helping to keep the risk premium embedded in crude prices. However, exports from Gulf producers have continued to recover. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright has said crude flows had rebounded to about 80 per cent of pre-war levels, although shipments of refined products remained constrained, according to reports. Meanwhile, Iraq's oil minister said the country's crude exports have exceeded 3.4 million barrels per day so far this month. Export volumes are now nearing pre-war levels after Iraq offered deep discounts relative to regional benchmark prices.On the domestic front, commodity exchanges are closed in the morning session due to Dussehra. Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) will not remain closed for the entire day. But trading will be suspended from 9 am to 5 pm and reopen for the evening session from 5 pm.

Indian embassy in France asks nationals to stay vigilant amid violent protests, curfews.The Indian Embassy in France on Wednesday asked Indian nationals living in or travelling to the country to remain vigilant, after cost-of-living protests turned violent and several cities imposed curfews. In a post on X, the embassy said that in view of the recent developments and localised curfews, people should remain vigilant and exercise due caution.More than half a million people took part in demonstrations across France on Saturday, October 17. Students demanding better conditions in education joined people protesting the high cost of living. The protests turned violent in several cities, with looting and damage to property. Authorities said about 2,400 people were arrested across the country over the weekend.Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has asked the regional authorities to bring in localised, partial curfews. Also, limited curfews from 8 pm to 6 am were announced for four northern cities including Lille, and parts of Paris were put under a partial curfew with a ban on demonstrations. Similar curfews, some applying only to minors, were announced for Lyon, Nice and Coulaines. Lecornu said new curfews would be imposed where necessary, in coordination with mayors. Curfews helped bring a calmer night on Tuesday, but France is bracing for further unrest. The government plans to use the military to help keep order at protests planned for the coming weekend. The government has also promised a heavy police presence this weekend.

Kim Jong Un appears in public after rumours of brain haemorrhage, death. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has appeared in newly released photographs inspecting a clothing and footwear exhibition, after unverified claims spread online that he had suffered a brain haemorrhage, fallen into a coma or died.The photographs, released by North Korea’s state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Tuesday, show Kim visiting the 2026 National Garment and Footwear Exhibition on Monday. He was accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, and his wife, Ri Sol Ju. The images show him examining products at the exhibition and interacting with officials.The public appearance came after speculation about Kim’s health spread across social media over the weekend. Posts claimed that the North Korean leader had suffered a severe brain haemorrhage, slipped into a coma and been taken to Beijing for emergency treatment. Some posts also raised questions about who would succeed Kim if he died, with his daughter and powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, mentioned as possible figures in a future leadership transition. However, the claims about his health were not backed by verifiable evidence. The claims circulated widely on X and other online platforms, with some accounts suggesting that Kim had been taken to a hospital in Beijing because of limited medical facilities in Pyongyang. Other posts fuelled speculation about a possible power struggle in North Korea.

Infosys posts flat PAT at Rs 7,823 crore, trims FY27 revenue growth guidance. On a year-on-year basis, net profit rose 6.2 per cent from Rs 7,364 crore, while revenue increased 11 per cent from Rs 44,490 crore in Q2 FY26. The growth was driven by demand pick-up from energy and utility clients and higher spending by businesses on artificial intelligence services. In terms of guidance, the firm has pegged revenue growth at 1 per cent to 2 per cent in constant currency for FY27, against 1.5 per cent to 3 per cent earlier. The guidance for operating margin is 20 per cent to 22 per cent, according to the IT company. Apart from earnings, the company declared an interim dividend of Rs 26 per share, with November 3, 2026, as the record date and November 11, 2026, as the payout date. “We had strong large deals of $5.2 billion, including a mega deal of over $2 billion, reinforcing our position as a trusted partner in the marketplace when clients embark on large and complex transformation programs. Our AI revenue was at 10.5 per cent and grew 29 per cent quarter-on-quarter,” said CEO and MD Salil Parekh. “As enterprises move to AI adoption at scale, the strong growth in AI revenues is a recognition of our differentiated market positioning and client confidence. We are advising some of the largest global enterprises on their AI strategy and continue to invest in deep domain and technology capabilities,” he added.On the employee front, the company's total headcount stood at 332,542 as of September 30 — a jump of 1.36 per cent from 328,062 in the previous quarter and 0.16 per cent from 331,991 a year ago.

SPORTS

Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manasi Joshi win gold as India add more badminton medals.The Indian duo defeated reigning World Champions Qiuxia Yang and Zuxian Xiao of China in straight games, 21-16 and 21-13 to avenge their loss in the 2025 Asian Championships final to claim the coveted medal. With this medal, Thulasimathi & Manasi upgrade their silver from the previous edition to gold. Earlier in the day, Thulasimathi teamed up with Nitesh Kumar to bag silver in the Mixed Doubles SL3-SU5. The Indian pair lost 21-11, 19-21, 14-21 to Indonesia’s Leani Ratri Oktila and Hikmat Ramdani in the final. Thulasi also bagged a silver medal in the women's singles SU5 after losing to Yang of China 21-18, 21-21-11 in the final. India's Naveen Sivakumar and Nitesh Kumar clinched gold medals in men's singles SL3 and SL4 categories, respectively. Nitesh defeated compatriot Pramod Bhagat, who had won gold in the 2018 and 2022 editions, 21-18, 21-16 in the all-India final between two Paralympic champions. In another match, Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan signed off with silver after losing to china.

India is immensely proud of our para-athletes'.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended his wishes to India's para athletes for the Para Asian Games 2026, which were officially declared open today with an absorbing opening ceremony in Nagoya. "India is immensely proud of our phenomenal para-athletes. Their grit, dedication and indomitable spirit inspire 140 crore Indians. May they compete with confidence and give their very best," he added. Meanwhile, the Games were declared open after the opening ceremony, where para-badminton star Pramod Bhagat and para-athlete Simran Sharma carried the Indian flag. The duo led the Indian delegation at the ceremony, held at Paloma Mizuho Stadium in Nagoya. India’s representation also stood out for its ceremonial attire, with the contingent wearing deep blue blazers featuring golden motifs inspired by the Indus Valley Civilisation. The designs incorporated images of the iconic Priest-King sculpture and Dancing Girl figurine, alongside ancient seals that reflected the civilisation’s distinctive symbols and script.

Jose Mourinho backs Vinicius Jr amid four-match ban, says Real Madrid star deserves respect. Jose Mourinho has defended Vinicius Jr amid the Real Madrid forward’s four-match La Liga suspension, praising his loyalty to the club and resilience. Vinicius has also criticised the timing of the ban’s announcement and claimed players were not properly informed about the disciplinary rule."If I were in his position, I probably would not have stayed here. I would have forced the club to let me leave for a country where they respect me, but he has stayed because of his sense of belonging to Real Madrid and his love for the club," he added. The Portuguese coach also played down suggestions that Vinicius' substitution had been decisive in Real Madrid's dramatic 4-3 Champions League victory over Roma on Wednesday. Madrid scored three late goals to complete the comeback after Vinicius was replaced by Endrick, who played a key role in the turnaround. Mourinho pointed out that he had made five changes during the match, insisting that "substitutions are simply part of football."

Honey Singh records statement in alleged obscene remarks case, questioned for over two hours. Rapper and singer Yo Yo Honey Singh appeared before the Maharashtra Cyber Cell on Friday, October 16, and was questioned for more than two hours in connection with a complaint over his alleged objectionable remarks at a concert in Delhi in January 2026. The 43-year-old singer was summoned after a Mumbai resident filed a complaint regarding the remarks, following which the Maharashtra Cyber police registered a case and initiated an investigation. the information shared by the Cyber Cell, Honey Singh had been summoned three times earlier but did not appear, citing his presence abroad. The authorities subsequently issued another summons directing him to appear on October 16.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas wins Woman of Impact Award at InStyle Imagemaker awards in pink Benarasi couture and Law Roach styling.The award recognises Priyanka's influence in challenging stereotypes, amplifying voices and expanding opportunities for women in Hollywood. Her career spans Indian cinema and international entertainment, and she works as an actor, producer and entrepreneur. Through her production banner, Purple Pebble Pictures, she has backed diverse stories and new voices.On the red carpet, Priyanka wore a pink ensemble by Matières Fécales from its Spring 2027 collection, styled by Law Roach. The outfit featured a plunging structured top with dramatic slit sleeves, a fitted pencil skirt and intricate gold embroidery.

Kartik Aaryan to headline Karan Johar’s MOST AMBITIOUS film Kaaliya.A source told Bollywood Hungama, "Karan Johar and team are collaborating with Kartik Aaryan for their biggest and most ambitious film till date. The film will be directed by Sandeep Modi, known for The Night Manager. Interestingly, it marks the union of 3 National Award-winning talents - Kartik Aaryan (Chandu Champion), Sandeep Modi (Best Friends Forever) and Karan Johar (Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani)." The source also informed that Kaaliya is one of its kind mytho creature feature rooted, which will be mounted on a big budget. "The film will be announced this Diwali with a strong video asset. The same will be attached to the prints of Ramayana all across," the source tells us further.

City Updates

*Panchayati Raj General Elections-2026: Second phase nomination process completed in 17 Panchayat Samitis of Jodhpur district*.The process of filing nominations for the election of members of 17 Panchayat Samitis of Jodhpur district under the second phase of the General Elections of Panchayati Raj Institutions-2026 was completed on Friday. According to the report of the Statistics Cell of the Office of the District Election Officer (District Collector) (Panchayat), Jodhpur, a total of 1,435 nomination papers have been filed for a total of 261 constituencies in the district, through which 1,313 candidates have presented their candidature. According to the date-wise details of the nomination process, 4 nominations were received on the first day, 54 (51 candidates) on the second day, and 269 (250 candidates) on the third day. On the fourth and final day of nominations, 1,108 nominations were filed (by 1,008 candidates). So far, the highest number of 123 nominations (99 candidates) have been received in Bhopalgarh Panchayat Samiti, Panchayat Samiti wise.

To ensure transparency in the National Food Security Scheme and to remove ineligible beneficiaries from the list, the Food and Civil Supplies Department is conducting a door-to-door survey campaign in urban areas in wards where more than 80 percent of the families are selected under the National Food Security Scheme. A special survey campaign is being conducted in Jodhpur district from October to December 2026. The main objective of the campaign is to remove ineligible persons and families from the scheme under the National Food Security Scheme and to include genuinely eligible and needy families in the scheme. District Logistics Officer, Jodhpur, Mr. Kanwara Ram, stated that during the campaign, survey teams are physically verifying the eligibility of beneficiaries by going door-to-door. During the survey, ineligible individuals and families will be identified and removed from the scheme as per the rules. Additionally, eligible and needy families excluded from the scheme will be identified and necessary action will be taken .

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma stated that Indian culture is based on duties, and that the establishment of Ramrajya was achieved through the observance of these duties. He added that while society today often discusses rights, awareness of duties is essential. Therefore, every individual should perform their duties with devotion. He added that only through dedication and values can we strengthen the nation while advancing our cultural heritage. The Chief Minister was addressing the Divine Ram Katha and Nav Kundiya Yagna program organized at Keshav Priya Gaushala in village Kelava Khurd of Jodhpur district on Saturday. He cordially met Saint Shri Muralidhar Ji Maharaj of the Vyaspeeth and congratulated him. He said that saints, Mahants and sages have always been working to show the right path to the society. Our thousands of years old culture and traditions are still providing direction to the society for living life. He said that even a little time spent in the company of saints provides new learning and inspiration to life.The Chief Minister said that Lord Shri Ram's life inspires ideal conduct and duty. The Ramayana and other religious texts contain important values of life.

Urban Haat, Jodhpur hosts grand celebration of 'Deepotsav Craft Bazaar' and 'ODOP Exhibition'.With the aim of providing marketing support to local handicraft products, under the RAMP program, a grand event of 'ODOP Exhibition under Panch Gaurav Program' along with 'Deepotsav Craft Bazaar' is being organized at Urban Haat located on Pali Road under the joint aegis of District Administration, District Industries and Commerce Center and Enterprise Promotion Institute, Jodhpur. During this exhibition, internationally renowned traditional handicraft designer, National Nari Shakti Award winner and Rajivika Brand Ambassador, Mrs. Ruma Devi, reached Urban Haat and first performed Ganesh puja and inspected the excellent handicraft products and stalls of all the artisans kept in the display hall.In her address, Mrs. Ruma Devi inspired artisans, explaining how they can elevate their products from rural to global levels. She urged them to stay connected to their traditional craft by updating their products with the times, and assured them that the Ruma Devi Foundation will provide all possible support in this regard. On this occasion.