snehil singh - The Latremie Post

Delhi-NCR air quality worsens; 5 stations record 300+ AQI

**Delhi-NCR Air Quality Worsens; Five Stations Record AQI Above 300**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 15, 2025, 06:12 pm*

The air quality in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) has further deteriorated, with five monitoring stations registering an Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 300. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Anand Vihar recorded the highest AQI at a staggering 345.

Other areas also reported alarming AQI figures: DU North Campus and CRRI Mathura Road each recorded 307, while Dwarka Sector 8 and Wazirpur reported 314 and 325, respectively.

**Pollution Response: GRAP Stage-1 Activated**

In response to the worsening air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage-1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. This comes as AQI levels have fallen between 200 and 300, categorized as “poor.”

Stage-1 implementation mandates strict preventive measures, including the deployment of anti-smog guns and dust suppression activities at construction sites to control pollution sources.

**Pollution Sources: Transport Emissions Lead**

Data from the Decision Support System (DSS) identifies transport emissions as the largest contributor to Delhi’s pollution, accounting for 19.8% of total emissions. On Tuesday, the city recorded an AQI of 201, falling under the “poor” air quality category.

For reference, the CPCB classifies AQI as follows:
– 0-50: Good
– 51-100: Satisfactory
– 101-200: Moderate
– 201-300: Poor
– 301-400: Very Poor
– Above 400: Severe

**Weather Impact**

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) noted that Delhi’s minimum temperature on Wednesday was 18.3°C — slightly below the normal of 19.6°C. This marks the fifth consecutive day with minimum temperatures under 20°C for the 2025-26 winter season. The maximum temperature hovered around 33°C.

Meanwhile, relative humidity was high at 89% as recorded at 8:30 am, factors that could further affect air quality levels.

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions as the air pollution situation remains critical.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/delhi/delhi-ncr-air-quality-worsens-5-stations-record-300-aqi/story

Karur stampede case: SC orders CBI probe, forms committee

**Karur Stampede Case: Supreme Court Orders CBI Probe, Constitutes Oversight Committee**

*By Snehil Singh | October 13, 2025, 11:34 AM*

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The Supreme Court has directed a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the tragic stampede that occurred in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on September 27, 2025. The incident unfolded during a political rally organized by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and resulted in the deaths of at least 41 people, as reported by Bar and Bench.

The TVK, led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, had challenged a Madras High Court order which called for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe. Vijay also demanded an independent investigation, addressing the adverse remarks made by the High Court regarding the case.

### Supreme Court Constitutes Committee to Oversee CBI Probe

The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices JK Maheshwari and NV Anjaria, has set up a three-member committee to monitor and supervise the ongoing CBI investigation. The committee will be headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Rastogi. Alongside him, two Indian Police Service (IPS) officers—likely from Tamil Nadu but not locals—will serve on the panel.

In a bid for transparency, the Supreme Court has instructed the CBI to submit monthly progress reports of its investigation directly to this committee.

### Conflicting High Court Orders Raise Concerns

The Supreme Court’s intervention comes amid conflicting orders from different benches of the Madras High Court. While the principal bench ordered an SIT investigation into the case, the Madurai Bench had earlier refused to allow a CBI probe. This discrepancy had raised concerns at the apex court level.

### Background: Madras High Court’s SIT Order and Legal Developments

On October 3, Justice N Senthilkumar of the Madras High Court directed a Special Investigation Team probe, expressing dissatisfaction with the state’s investigation into the stampede. The judge highlighted that no criminal case had been filed in connection with two separate hit-and-run incidents involving Vijay’s campaign vehicle.

Subsequently, a case was reportedly registered against the driver of Vijay’s campaign vehicle for these incidents. In response, TVK approached the Supreme Court seeking an independent investigation beyond what the state authorities had provided.

### SOP for Rallies Plea Assigned to Division Bench

Alongside the probe order, the Supreme Court has assigned the plea regarding the establishment of a Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) for roadshows and political rallies to a division bench of the Madras High Court.

Senior advocates Gopal Subramaniam and Aryama Sundaram appeared for TVK, while senior advocates Mukul Rohatgi and P Wilson represented the Tamil Nadu government in the matter.

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The developments surrounding the Karur stampede case highlight intensified judicial scrutiny and the demand for a transparent and impartial investigation into the tragedy that shook Tamil Nadu. This ongoing probe and the formulation of SOPs are expected to set precedents for the management of mass political gatherings in the future.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/sc-orders-cbi-investigation-into-karur-stampede-appoints-2-member-panel/story

Durgapur gang-rape: NCW suggests probing survivor’s friend, political controversy erupts

Durgapur Gang-Rape: NCW Suggests Probing Survivor’s Friend, Political Controversy Erupts

By Snehil Singh | Oct 12, 2025 | 02:05 PM

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has recommended that police interrogate a friend of the 23-year-old Odisha college student who was allegedly gang-raped in Durgapur, West Bengal. NCW member Archana Majumdar met the survivor at a hospital, where the victim revealed that her friend had persuaded her to leave her private college shortly before the attack on Friday.

Investigation Progress: Friend Also Under Scanner

So far, three suspects have been arrested and one detained in connection with the case. The accused have been identified as Apu Bauri (21), Firdos Sekh (23), Sekh Reajuddin (31), and Sheikh Sofiqul.

The survivor’s father also indicated possible involvement of the friend, stating that the friend fled when the accused cornered his daughter. “The survivor’s friend is also under the scanner. He had insisted that she go out with him. When the survivor was cornered by the accused, he fled the scene,” said NCW member Archana Majumdar.

Allegations: Friend Left Her Alone, Say Police

The survivor’s mother alleged that her daughter was gang-raped around 10:00 PM last Friday. According to police, an initial probe revealed that the survivor went out with her friend around 8:00 to 8:30 PM.

“The friend left her alone when three unidentified men arrived there,” a police officer speaking on the condition of anonymity said. The accused reportedly snatched the woman’s phone and took her to a jungle outside the campus, where they raped her, threatening serious consequences if she disclosed the incident to anyone.

Political Response: Calls for Immediate Arrests

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has assured the survivor’s family of the state government’s support amid the investigation. Meanwhile, leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Odisha and West Bengal have demanded the swift arrest of all those involved in the case.

Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal assembly, accused the Mamata Banerjee administration—who is also the state’s police minister—of law and order collapse.

Minister’s Statement: Investigation Following All Protocols

West Bengal Women and Child Development Minister Sashi Panja described the incident as “deeply unfortunate” and emphasized that politicizing crimes against women is undesirable.

East Asansol Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhishek Gupta confirmed on Sunday that all investigation protocols are being followed. A drone has been deployed to track a fifth accused believed to be involved in the case.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/wb-gang-rape-survivor-s-friend-who-fled-under-scanner-ncw/story

NTA introduces Aadhaar-based exam center allotment for national-level tests

**NTA Introduces Aadhaar-Based Exam Center Allotment for National-Level Tests**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 08, 2025, 04:48 PM*

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced a significant change in the exam center allotment process for national-level entrance tests starting from the 2026-27 academic session. Under the new system, candidates will no longer have the option to select their preferred exam cities. Instead, exam centers will be allotted strictly based on the address mentioned on their Aadhaar cards.

### A Move Towards Transparency and Fairness

This shift aims to enhance transparency and curb impersonation and cheating during examinations. By linking exam centers to Aadhaar-registered addresses, the NTA hopes to strengthen the integrity of the examination process.

### Focus on Rural Candidates and Travel Concerns

Candidates from small towns and villages will be assigned centers in or near their Aadhaar-registered locations. However, this decision has sparked concerns among students and parents, especially for those who study or reside away from their permanent homes. Many fear travel difficulties if their Aadhaar details are outdated or inaccurate.

To mitigate such issues, the NTA urges candidates to verify and update their Aadhaar information well before the application window opens. Ensuring accurate Aadhaar details will help avoid last-minute travel challenges on exam day.

### Tightened Verification Measures

In addition to the new allotment policy, the NTA has strengthened its verification process. It is now mandatory for personal details on the Aadhaar card to exactly match those on the candidate’s Class 10 marksheet. Even minor discrepancies can result in application cancellation.

Candidates are advised to visit their nearest UIDAI center to correct any errors and ensure that their Aadhaar-linked addresses are accurate. This step is crucial since exam centers will be assigned based on this information.

### Consistency Required for Reservation Claims

Furthermore, candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC, EWS, or PwD categories should ensure that their category certificates are consistent with both Aadhaar and Class 10 records. Any inconsistencies could lead to rejection of reservation claims or possible disqualification.

### Conclusion

The NTA describes these new policies as part of its ongoing efforts to streamline examination procedures and reinforce fairness in candidate verification. Students are encouraged to take prompt action to update their Aadhaar details and certificates accordingly to avoid any disruptions during the examination process.

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Stay informed and prepare ahead to ensure a smooth exam experience under the new Aadhaar-based center allotment system.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/career/nta-revises-exam-centers-based-on-aadhaar-address-from-2026/story

‘Rhinos drown…roads turn rivers’: Bengal floods leave trail of destruction

**Rhinos Drown, Roads Turn Rivers: Bengal Floods Leave Trail of Destruction**
*By Snehil Singh | October 6, 2025, 5:13 PM*

Heavy, unabating rains in West Bengal have caused significant destruction, claiming the lives of at least 28 people and leaving dozens reported missing. The worst-hit area is Darjeeling, where the town of Mirik alone has witnessed 13 deaths, with many others still missing as rescue operations continue.

The severe downpours across North Bengal have triggered landslides, causing roads to collapse and stranding numerous tourists during the Durga Puja vacation period.

**Wildlife Impact**

A heartbreaking viral video from near Jaldapara National Park shows rhinos floating in floodwaters and even chasing people. Jaldapara is renowned for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros and other endangered species, many of which are severely affected by the floods.

The devastating weather has not spared neighboring Nepal either. According to *The Kathmandu Post*, water-induced disasters there have resulted in 47 deaths and nine people missing.

**Rescue Efforts**

In the midst of the chaos, elephants have emerged as unexpected heroes. Ravikant Jha, Assistant Wildlife Warden of Jaldapara, shared how elephants are aiding rescue efforts by transporting stranded tourists after a wooden bridge near a lodge collapsed. “Our elephants have brought 2-4 tourists across the river because the bridge broke due to rain,” he said.

Additionally, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been actively involved in flood and water rescue operations. They have successfully rescued over 160 people from the affected areas—105 by boat and another 55 either airlifted or pulled across using zip lines in Jalpaiguri. During these operations, one deceased individual was also recovered.

**Weather Forecast**

The India Meteorological Department has forecasted that scattered light to moderate rains will continue in the sub-Himalayan regions until October 12. Isolated thunderstorms, gusty winds reaching 30-40 km/h, and lightning are expected to persist until Tuesday morning.

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The ongoing rains and floods continue to wreak havoc on both human lives and wildlife, highlighting the urgent need for sustained rescue efforts and disaster preparedness in the region.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/floods-and-landslides-devastate-darjeeling-rhinos-float-in-floodwaters/story

‘Rhinos drown…roads turn rivers’: Bengal floods leave trail of destruction

Rhinos Drown, Roads Turn Rivers: Bengal Floods Leave Trail of Destruction

By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025 | 05:13 PM

Heavy, unabating rains in West Bengal have caused widespread devastation, resulting in at least 28 deaths and leaving dozens missing. The worst-hit region is Darjeeling, where Mirik alone has reported 13 fatalities, with many more still unaccounted for as rescue operations continue.

The intense downpours in North Bengal have triggered landslides, causing roads to collapse and stranding numerous tourists during the Durga Puja vacations. Infrastructure damage and disrupted transportation have further complicated relief efforts.

Wildlife Impact

A viral video from near Jaldapara National Park shows rhinos floating helplessly in floodwaters and even chasing people. The park is known for its population of the famous one-horned rhinoceros and other endangered species, raising concerns about the safety of wildlife amid the floods.

Severe weather has also severely affected neighboring Nepal, where water-induced disasters have claimed 47 lives, with nine more reported missing, according to The Kathmandu Post.

Rescue Efforts

Elephants have emerged as unlikely heroes in the rescue operations. Ravikant Jha, Assistant Wildlife Warden of Jaldapara, shared that elephants have been used to transport stranded tourists after a wooden bridge near a lodge collapsed due to heavy rain. “Our elephants have brought 2-4 tourists across the river because the bridge near the lodge broke,” he said.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been actively involved in flood and water rescue operations. So far, the NDRF has rescued over 160 people from affected areas. Of these, 105 were rescued by boats, while another 55 were either airlifted or pulled across rivers using zip lines in Jalpaiguri. Rescue teams also recovered one deceased individual during their operations.

Weather Forecast

The India Meteorological Department has forecast continued scattered light to moderate rain in the sub-Himalayan regions until October 12. Thunderstorms, gusty winds reaching 30-40 km/h, and isolated lightning strikes are expected until Tuesday morning, signaling the need for ongoing caution and preparedness.

Stay safe and follow official advisories as relief and rescue efforts continue across the region.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/floods-and-landslides-devastate-darjeeling-rhinos-float-in-floodwaters/story