Key Tax Changes: Aadhaar-Free PAN Card Applications Now Possible, here’s More…

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October 1, 2024

Several significant changes to income taxes will come into effect in India on October 1, 2024. These changes, outlined in the Union Budget 2024 and subsequently passed in the Finance Bill, aim to streamline tax procedures and increase tax revenue.

Here are some of the key financial changes that taxpayers should be aware of:

Securities Transaction Tax (STT): The STT on Futures and Options (F&O) of securities has been increased to 0.02% and 0.1%, respectively. Additionally, income received from share buybacks will now be taxed at the beneficiary level.¹
Aadhaar Card and PAN Card: Starting October 1, the use of an Aadhaar Enrollment ID in place of an Aadhaar number, as well as Aadhaar details in ITRs and PAN applications, will no longer be allowed. This measure is aimed at preventing PAN misuse and duplication.
Tax on Share Buybacks: Share buybacks will now be taxed at the shareholder level, similar to dividends. This means that investors will have to factor in the acquisition cost of shares when calculating capital gains or losses.
TDS on Floating Rate Bonds: A 10% tax deducted at source (TDS) will apply to specific central and state government bonds, including floating rate bonds, starting October 1. However, TDS will only apply if the income exceeds ₹10,000 in a year.
Reduced TDS Rates: The TDS rate for payments under sections 19DA, 194H, 194-IB, and 194M has been reduced from 5% to 2%. The TDS rate for e-commerce operators has also been cut from 1% to 0.1%.
Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme 2024: This scheme, which aims to reduce income tax litigation, will come into effect on October 1. Taxpayers can resolve ongoing disputes, including appeals pending in the Supreme Court, high courts, and other appellate authorities as of July 22, 2024.

These changes are expected to have a significant impact on the Indian economy and taxpayers. Individuals and businesses need to be aware of these changes and ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Can a 80-Year-Old be Miss Universe Korea pageant? Meet Choi Soon-hwa!

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Alina Khan

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October 1, 2024

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An 80-year-old Choi Soon-hwa is set to strut her stuff alongside contestants young enough to be her granddaughters in the Miss Universe Korea pageant. Born when Harry Truman was U.S. President and years before the first Miss Universe contest, Choi is poised to redefine beauty standards and shatter age barriers.

Korea gets their oldest contestant in Miss Universe Korea

With her flowing white hair and an energy that puts twentysomethings to shame, Choi Soon-hwa is not your typical pageant contestant. But don’t let her octogenarian status fool you – this seasoned model means business.

“I want to stun the world,” Choi declared to CNN, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “Like, ‘How is an 80-year-old lady so healthy? How did she maintain that body? What’s your diet?'” One can almost hear the collective gulp from her younger competitors.

A journey to making debut at Seoul Fashion Week

Choi’s journey to the pageant stage reads like a modern fairy tale. After facing financial woes in her 50s, she found herself working as a hospital carer. But fate had other plans. Encouraged by a patient at 72, Choi traded bedpans for the runway, making her catwalk debut at Seoul Fashion Week at the sprightly age of 74.

Since then, she’s graced the pages of Harper’s Bazaar and Elle, proving that silver foxes can be cover girls too. “Becoming a model was like opening a door to a new path for me,” Choi reminisced, perhaps understating the seismic shift in her golden years.

It’s Chio’s chance at Miss Universe Korea

Now, with the Miss Universe Organization lifting its age cap (previously a youthful 28), Choi saw her chance. “Now that the age restriction has been lifted, I said, ‘I should give it a try,'” she explained, likely causing pageant organizers to do a double-take.

As Monday’s pageant approaches, Choi is set to showcase not just her walk, but her pipes too, participating in a singing contest. If she clinches the crown, she’ll make history as the oldest contestant ever to grace the global Miss Universe stage.

In a world obsessed with youth, Choi Soon-hwa is proving that true beauty, like fine wine, only gets better with age. Watch out, Mexico – this octogenarian might just be coming for the ultimate crown!

Court Orders Ola to ‘Compensate’ Rs 5 Lakh for Driver’s Sexual Misconduct

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Alina Khan

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October 1, 2024

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In a landmark ruling, the Karnataka High Court has directed ANI Technologies, the parent company of Ola Cabs, to pay Rs 5 lakh in compensation to a woman who allegedly faced sexual harassment by one of their drivers in 2019.

Karnataka HC orders Ola to compensate Sex Harassment victim

This decision, handed down by Justice M G S Kamal, marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over ride-hailing companies’ responsibilities towards passenger safety.

The court’s order goes beyond monetary compensation, mandating Ola’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to conduct a thorough inquiry into the incident within 90 days, adhering to the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act). This directive comes after Ola’s initial refusal to investigate the complaint, citing lack of jurisdiction.

Here’s what happened:

Justice Kamal emphasized the importance of confidentiality, instructing all parties to comply with Section 16 of the POSH Act to protect the identities of those involved. The court also ordered ANI Technologies to cover the petitioner’s litigation expenses, amounting to Rs 50,000.

The case has broader implications for the ride-hailing industry in India. The petitioner not only sought redress from Ola but also urged the Ministry of Women and Child Development to ensure the company’s compliance with POSH guidelines. Furthermore, she called on the state to implement protective regulations for women and children using taxi services.

What Karnataka State Road Safety Authority do?

In a related development, the Karnataka State Road Safety Authority has been directed to expedite its proceedings regarding a notice issued to ANI Technologies, with a 90-day deadline. The state government faces a Rs 1 lakh penalty for its inadequate response to the petition.

The case has ignited a debate on the nature of ride-hailing services. While the petitioner’s counsel argued that Ola functions as a transport company and should be responsible for its drivers’ actions, Ola’s legal team contended that drivers are independent contractors, not employees, and thus the company should not be liable under labour laws.

This ruling sets a precedent for how ride-hailing companies might be held accountable for passenger safety in the future, potentially reshaping the industry’s operational model and legal responsibilities.

Commercial LPG Price hiked by Rs 48.50, Check Revised Rates here…

By

Alina Khan

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October 1, 2024

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\In a move that could squeeze the profit margins of restaurants and hotels across India, oil marketing companies have announced a significant hike in commercial LPG gas cylinder prices, effective October 1, today. This marks the second consecutive month of price increases, putting pressure on businesses already grappling with rising operational costs.

Commercial LPG price hiked by Rs 48.50

According to official sources, the price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder has jumped by Rs 48.50. In Delhi, the new price stands at Rs 1,740, up from Rs 1,691.50. This follows a Rs 39 increase implemented just last month on September 1.

The price revision doesn’t stop at the 19 kg variant. The 5 kg Free Trade LPG cylinders have also seen a Rs 12 uptick, further impacting smaller businesses and street food vendors who rely on these more compact units.

Will Commercial LPG price hike be challenging for business?

This latest hike paints a challenging picture for India’s vast hospitality sector. Restaurants, hotels, and catering services, still recovering from the pandemic’s economic fallout, now face the prospect of higher operating costs. The ripple effect could potentially reach consumers’ pockets as businesses may be forced to adjust their pricing to maintain viability.

However, it’s not all bad news on the home front. Domestic LPG cylinder rates remain unchanged, offering a silver lining to households already battling inflation in other sectors.

The commercial LPG price hike is part of a broader trend of fluctuating energy costs globally. Oil marketing companies adjust prices based on international benchmarks and exchange rates, making the LPG market a bellwether for broader economic trends.

Veteran actor Rajinikanth hospitalised in Chennai, to undergo elective procedure

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Alina Khan

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October 1, 2024

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Veteran actor Rajinikanth was admitted to a private hospital in Chennai on Monday evening, September 30. While initial reports suggested that he was experiencing stomach pain, sources later confirmed that the actor was scheduled for an elective procedure on Tuesday, October 1. His condition is stable, and an official medical bulletin is expected soon.

Rajinikanth hospitalised in Chennai

The news of Rajinikanth’s hospitalisation has caused concern among his millions of fans worldwide. Many took to social media to express their well wishes and prayers for his speedy recovery. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also sent his best wishes to the actor.

CM MK Stalin shares post, extends wishes for speedy recovery

“I wish my dear friend Mr Rajinikanth, who has been admitted to the hospital due to sudden illness, to get well soon. I pray that he may soon take up all his duties with full vigour and health,” Stalin wrote in a Tamil post on X.

மருத்துவமனையில் அனுமதிக்கப்பட்டுள்ள நண்பர் சூப்பர்ஸ்டார் திரு. @rajinikanth அவர்கள் விரைந்து நலம் பெற விழைகிறேன்.
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) October 1, 2024

Actor-politician R Sarath Kumar also shared his good wishes for Rajinikanth. “I wish my dear friend Mr. Rajinikanth, who has been admitted to the hospital due to sudden illness, to get well soon. I pray that he may soon take up all his duties with full vigour and health,” he wrote in Tamil.

Latest projects of Rajinikanth

Rajinikanth has been busy with the shooting of his upcoming film, Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. The film’s shooting is currently taking place in Visakhapatnam. Just a few weeks ago, he travelled to Chennai to attend the audio launch of another film, Vettaiyan.

At the Vettaiyan audio launch, Rajinikanth delighted fans by performing the hookstep of the song “Manasilaayo” along with composer Anirudh Ravichander and lyricist Super Subbu. He also delivered a lengthy speech at the event, sharing his thoughts on the film industry and his career.

Watch the viral song – ‘Manasilaayo’ here:

Vettaiyan, a hard-hitting action drama directed by TJ Gnanavel, is set to hit theatres on October 10.

Lucknow Man ‘Kills’ Delivery Agent over Rs 1.5 lakh iPhone, Bought on Cash-On-Delivery

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Alina Khan

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October 1, 2024

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In a shocking incident in Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow, a 30-year-old delivery agent was allegedly murdered while attempting to deliver a high-value iPhone, police reported on Monday.

Delivery agent allegedly killed over iPhone in Lucknow

The victim, identified as Bharat Sahu, had been tasked with delivering an iPhone worth Rs 1.5 lakh to a customer who had opted for cash-on-delivery.

Taking notes from the incident, Deputy Commissioner of Police Shashank Singh stated, “Bharat Sahu, 30, had been delivering the iPhone to Gajanan, who had ordered it from Flipkart on September 23.”

The delivery was to be made in the city’s Chinhat area.

Accomplice confessed the crime, says police

Concerns were raised when Sahu failed to return home for two days, prompting his family to file a missing person’s report. During the investigation, police interviewed Gajanan’s friend Akash, who confessed to the crime.

According to DCP Singh, Gajanan and an accomplice allegedly strangled Sahu, placed his body in a sack, and disposed of it in the Indira Canal. The State Disaster Response Force is assisting in the search for the victim’s body.

Similar incidents reported in other cities

This incident adds to a disturbing trend of violence against delivery workers in India. Similar cases have been reported in recent years, including the murder of a food delivery worker in Bengaluru in 2021.

A fatal stabbing of a delivery agent in Noida in 2022, both linked to disputes over payments or robbery attempts.

Siddaramaiah’s Wife to Return 14 Plots Amid ED Probe, Says this…

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Alina Khan

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October 1, 2024

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In a dramatic turn of events, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s wife, BM Parvathi, has announced her decision to return 14 compensatory land sites received from the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA).

This development came hours after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed a money laundering case against the Chief Minister and others concerning the MUDA land scam.

Siddaramaiah’s wife to return 14 Plots amid ED’s Probe

In a letter addressed to MUDA, Parvathi expressed her distress over the accusations and emphasized her commitment to her husband’s integrity. “My husband, Siddaramaiah, the state’s Chief Minister, has upheld a strict code of ethics throughout his 40-year political career, remaining entirely free from any kind of blemish,” she wrote. “I have lived my life committed to ensuring that nothing in my public or political life would cause him any embarrassment.”

Parvathi’s decision to return the land plots, which her brother inherited, underscores her resolve to protect her husband’s reputation. She stated that no material possessions could outweigh her husband’s honour, highlighting that she had never sought personal wealth or property throughout her life.

Here’s what the Karnataka Chief Minister said:

Responding to the situation, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah took to social media platform X to express his feelings. “My wife Parvathi has returned the plots of land that were given as compensation for land acquired by MUDA in Mysuru without going through formal procedures,” he stated. Siddaramaiah labelled the accusations made by opposition parties as “fabricated” and born out of “political malice.”

ಮೈಸೂರಿನ ಮುಡಾ ಭೂಸ್ವಾಧೀನ ನಡೆಸದೆ ವಶಕ್ಕೆ ಪಡೆದಿದ್ದ ಜಮೀನಿಗೆ ಪರಿಹಾರ ರೂಪದಲ್ಲಿ ನೀಡಿದ್ದ ನಿವೇಶನಗಳನ್ನು ನನ್ನ ಪತ್ನಿ ಪಾರ್ವತಿ ಹಿಂದಿರುಗಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ನನ್ನ ವಿರುದ್ದ ರಾಜಕೀಯ ದ್ವೇಷ ಸಾಧನೆಗಾಗಿ ವಿರೋಧ ಪಕ್ಷಗಳು ಸುಳ್ಳು ದೂರನ್ನು ಸೃಷ್ಟಿಸಿ ನನ್ನ ಕುಟುಂಬವನ್ನು ವಿವಾದಕ್ಕೆ ಎಳೆದು ತಂದಿರುವುದು ರಾಜ್ಯದ ಜನತೆಗೂ ತಿಳಿದಿದೆ.

ಈ… pic.twitter.com/tk0C69rL3w
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) September 30, 2024

The Chief Minister acknowledged the emotional toll on his wife, who has largely remained out of public life. “This deeply saddens me,” he added, noting that Parvathi felt mentally harassed by the unfolding controversy. Despite his stance against what he terms “injustice,” Siddaramaiah expressed respect for his wife’s decision to return the land.

Why ED filed a case against Siddaramaiah?

This development comes amidst intensifying legal scrutiny. The ED filed an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Siddaramaiah and others under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). This followed a First Information Report (FIR) registered by the Lokayukta police last week against Siddaramaiah, his wife, his brother-in-law Mallikarjun Swamy, and one Devaraj.

The FIR was lodged in response to a special court order in Bengaluru, directing an investigation into alleged irregularities in the allotment of 14 sites, valued at Rs 56 crore, to Parvathi by MUDA.

As the situation unfolds, the return of the controversial land plots by the Chief Minister’s wife adds a new dimension to the ongoing probe, potentially impacting both the legal proceedings and the political landscape in Karnataka.

Siddaramaiah in Soup: ED Files Case against Karnataka CM, Here’s Why…

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Alina Khan

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September 30, 2024

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The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a case against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and others in connection with an alleged money laundering scheme linked to the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam. This development comes on the heels of a recent state Lokayukta FIR.

Why ED filed a case against Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah?

The ED has filed an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), equivalent to a police FIR, invoking sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). This action allows the agency to summon the accused for questioning and potentially attach their assets during the investigation.

The case stems from an FIR registered by the Mysuru-based Lokayukta police on September 27. The FIR names Siddaramaiah, his wife BM Parvathi, brother-in-law Mallikarjuna Swamy, and Devaraju, who sold land to Swamy that was later gifted to Parvathi.

This legal action follows a special court in Bengaluru directing a Lokayukta police investigation against the Chief Minister. The court’s decision came after the High Court upheld Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s sanction to probe allegations of irregularities in the allotment of 14 sites to Siddaramaiah’s wife by MUDA.

The MUDA site-allotment case alleges that compensatory sites in a more valuable area of Mysuru were allotted to Siddaramaiah’s wife in exchange for land “acquired” by MUDA.

Here’s what Siddaramaiah said on this case:

Responding to these developments, the 76-year-old Chief Minister stated, “I am being targeted in the MUDA case because the opposition is scared of me.”

He characterized this as his first “political case” and affirmed that he would not resign despite the court-ordered investigation. Siddaramaiah maintains his innocence and has pledged to fight the case through legal channels.

As the investigation unfolds, this case is likely to have significant political implications in Karnataka, potentially impacting the state’s governance and the Chief Minister’s political future.

Kolkata’s Trams: The End of a 151-Year Journey as State Govt. Discontinues it

By

Alina Khan

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September 30, 2024

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In a move that marks the end of an era, the West Bengal government has announced the discontinuation of Kolkata’s iconic tram services. This decision brings to a close a 151-year-old legacy that has been an integral part of the city’s identity and daily life.

Key Points of Kolkata’s Trams:

Historical Significance: Kolkata’s trams, introduced in 1873, were the first in Asia and the only operational tram system remaining in India.
Final Decision: The government has decided to discontinue tram services across the city, retaining only a small heritage route from Maidan to Esplanade.
Public Reaction: Kolkata residents have expressed sadness over the decision, with many taking to social media to share their memories and disappointment.
Environmental Concerns: The decision comes at a time when sustainable public transport systems are increasingly relevant in the face of climate change.

The Journey of Kolkata’s Trams

1873: India’s first horse-drawn trams were introduced in Calcutta (now Kolkata), running from Sealdah to Armenian Ghat.
1880: Calcutta Tramways Company was formed and registered in London.
1902: Introduction of electric trams, marking a revolution in public transport.
Early 20th Century: The Tram network expanded to 37 routes across the city.
1946: Trams become the first vehicle to cross the new Howrah Bridge.
1951: West Bengal government takes over management through the Calcutta Tramways Act.
1970s onwards: Gradual decline in popularity due to increasing road traffic.
2020: Launch of India’s first electric tram library.
2023: Celebration of 150 years of tram services in Kolkata.
2024: Announcement of discontinuation of tram services.

Cultural Impact of Kolkata’s Trams

Kolkata’s trams have been more than just a mode of transport; they’ve been woven into the city’s cultural fabric:

Cinema: Featured in films like Satyajit Ray’s ‘Mahanagar’ (1964) and ‘Apur Sansar’.
Music: Inspired Bengali songs, including works by Shreya Ghoshal.
Literature: A common motif in Bengali literature, represents the city’s pace and character.

Why Trams Endured in Kolkata

Unlike other Indian cities that phased out their tram systems, Kolkata’s trams persisted due to several factors:

Narrow streets and historical architecture made road expansion difficult.
Highly affordable fares (as low as Rs 5 to Rs 10) made trams accessible to a wide demographic.
Lower car ownership rates compared to other metropolitan cities.

The Final Chapter

As Kolkata bids farewell to its trams, the city grapples with mixed emotions:

Nostalgia: For many, the trams represent a connection to the city’s past. A Kolkata resident described them as “an escape”.
Environmental Concerns: The decision raises questions about sustainable urban transport solutions.
Heritage Preservation: A small stretch will be retained for heritage purposes, allowing future generations a glimpse into the city’s history.

State Transport Minister Snehasish Chakraborty, during the 150th-anniversary celebration, had stated: “Tram is our pride. Nowadays, tram routes are shorter than before. However, the government tried to maintain some heritage routes of the tram. Our priority is to ensure that tram services never end in the city.”

However, the recent announcement indicates a shift in this stance, prioritizing modern transportation needs over historical preservation.

What’s next for Kolkata without Trams?

As Kolkata moves forward without its trams, questions arise about the city’s transportation future:

How will the city address the gap left by this eco-friendly mode of transport?
What measures will be taken to preserve the cultural and historical significance of the trams?
How will this decision impact Kolkata’s identity as the “City of Joy”?

The discontinuation of Kolkata’s trams marks the end of a significant chapter in India’s transportation history. While progress necessitates change, the trams’ legacy will undoubtedly live on in the memories of Kolkatans and in the annals of urban history.

As one Kolkata resident poignantly noted, “Though trams lost the transport race against buses and cars, people of Kolkata can’t let go of their fond memories on the slow-moving coaches on tracks right in the middle of metalled roads. They want to hold on to those memories because memories are what Kolkata is essentially built of. And the tram will be a mainstay of memories.”

5-year-old boy Gang-Raped in UP’s Hapur, Filmed and Surfaced by Onlookers

By

Alina Khan

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September 30, 2024

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In a deeply disturbing incident, a five-year-old boy was allegedly gang-raped by two men in Uttar Pradesh’s Hapur district on September 19. The crime came to light a week later when the child’s health deteriorated, prompting questions about injuries on his body.

A 5-year-old boy gang-raped in UP’s Hapur

According to the family’s complaint, the accused, identified as Arsh and Junaid, abducted the boy from his home and sexually assaulted him on a nearby farm. Two goat herders, Rizwan and Alfez, reportedly witnessed the crime and recorded it on video, which they then shared online.

Suspects beaten by victim’s family

The situation escalated when the victim’s family confronted the accused. They were allegedly beaten and threatened with death, leading to the suspects fleeing the scene.

In response to the family’s complaint, local authorities have filed a First Information Report (FIR) under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, including kidnapping, criminal intimidation, and intentional assault. The case also invokes sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Here’s what the police said:

Taking notes from the heinous crime, Inspector Vijay Kumar of the Hapur Police stated, “The boy’s family has made serious allegations against four individuals. A case has been registered based on the complaint. Teams have been formed to arrest the accused, and they will be apprehended soon.”

This case highlights the ongoing issue of child sexual abuse in India and the importance of swift action by law enforcement. It also underscores the need for community vigilance and support for victims and their families in the aftermath of such traumatic events.

As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on apprehending the suspects and ensuring justice for the young victim.

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Here are some of the key financial changes that taxpayers should be aware of:

Korea gets their oldest contestant in Miss Universe Korea

A journey to making debut at Seoul Fashion Week

It’s Chio’s chance at Miss Universe Korea

Karnataka HC orders Ola to compensate Sex Harassment victim

Here’s what happened:

What Karnataka State Road Safety Authority do?

Commercial LPG price hiked by Rs 48.50

Will Commercial LPG price hike be challenging for business?

Rajinikanth hospitalised in Chennai

CM MK Stalin shares post, extends wishes for speedy recovery

Latest projects of Rajinikanth

Watch the viral song – ‘Manasilaayo’ here:

Delivery agent allegedly killed over iPhone in Lucknow

Accomplice confessed the crime, says police

Similar incidents reported in other cities

Siddaramaiah’s wife to return 14 Plots amid ED’s Probe

Here’s what the Karnataka Chief Minister said:

Why ED filed a case against Siddaramaiah?

Why ED filed a case against Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah?

Here’s what Siddaramaiah said on this case:

Key Points of Kolkata’s Trams:

The Journey of Kolkata’s Trams

Cultural Impact of Kolkata’s Trams

Why Trams Endured in Kolkata

The Final Chapter

What’s next for Kolkata without Trams?

A 5-year-old boy gang-raped in UP’s Hapur

Suspects beaten by victim’s family

Here’s what the police said:

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