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AHMEDABAD l SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 l Pages 12 l 3.00 RNI NO. GUJENG/2019/16208 l Vol 2 l Issue No. 134 MAHA ENTERS WEEKEND LOCKDOWN

‘TIKA UTSAV’ FROM TODAY l NIGHT CURFEW IN STATES  A ‘Tika Utsav’ will be marked in the  announces total country from April 11-14 at the behest lockdown in 8 districts, MP imposes of PM Modi with an aim to inoculate lockdown in many dists till April 19 maximum eligible people.  Punjab, , , J&K  No lockdown in , new restric- impose night curfew. In Odisha, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus wears a deserted look as announced weekend tions to be implemented soon, says night curfew is in place since April lockdown due to surge in COVID-19 cases in Mumbai on Saturday. —PHOTO BY PTI Kejriwal as Delhi imposes night curfew. 5 in 10 districts. records new-high BENGAL SEES RED! of 1,45,384 Covid cases New Delhi: With a re- cord 1,45,384 fresh cases, 5 DEAD: CISF FIRING KILLS 4; India’s Covid-19 tally has climbed to 1,32,05,926, the Union Health Minis- try said on Saturday. 1ST TIME VOTER DIES IN PARTY CLASH The number of active cases has breached the MOB OF 150 ATTACKED POLLING STAFF, WILL GO FOR CID PROBE 10-lakh mark again af- TRIED SNATCHING TROOPS WEAPONS: CISF ON INCIDENT: DIDI ter around six-and-a- half months, while the Kolkata/Cooch Behar: PM CONDOLES, death toll has gone up to Congress interim Prez Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Capt Five people were killed, BLAMES TMC 1,68,436 with 794 more Amarinder Singh during a virtual meeting on Saturday. including four in the fir- fatalities, the highest Siliguri/ Krishnanagar: ing by CISF personnel, since October 18 last Condoling the deaths in CENTRE MISMANAGED COVID SITUATION, during the fourth phase 76.16 Cooch Behar, PM Modi year, ministry’s data up- ALLOWED VACCINE SHORTAGE: SONIA of polling on Saturday on Saturday requested dated at 8 am showed. for 44 assembly seats of % Election Commission to Registering a steady New Delhi: Congress president Sonia Gandhi ac- West Bengal, triggering take stern action against increase for the 31st day cused the Centre on Saturday of “mismanaging” the a political firestorm. those responsible for the in a row, the number of COVID situation and creating a vaccine shortage in the Four people were incident and blamed the active coronavirus cas- country by exporting it, as she called for cancelling all killed as central forces VOTER TURNOUT TILL ruling TMC for perpetrat- es in the country has public gatherings and poll rallies in view of the rising opened fire allegedly af- 5.30 PM IN 4TH PHASE Injured being treated after clashes during 4th phase of West Bengal ing violence during the gone up to 10,46,631, ac- number of cases. Addressing a virtual meeting with ter coming under attack MARRED BY VIOLENCE Assembly polls, in Cooch Behar on Saturday. —PHOTO BY PTI polls. He also accused CM counting for 7.93% of CMs of Congress-ruled states and ministers of the from locals, who “at- Mamata Banerjee of insti- its total caseload, while party in states where it is in power in alliance with oth- tempted to snatch their gating people against the recovery rate has fur- ers, she said the priority should be to test, track and rifles”, in West Bengal’s 789 4 71 central forces. Turn to P6 ther dropped to 90.80%. vaccinate. She was reviewing the efforts by the states Cooch Behar district, COMPANIES OF POLLING MORE CAPF COMPA- Maharashtra on Fri- ruled by the Congress to tackle the second wave of the police said. CENTRAL FORCES STATIONS TO GO NIES RUSHED TO WB day night entered into a coronavirus infection. Former Congress chief Rahul The Election Com- DEPLOYED BY EC IN FOR RE-POLLING ON AMID POLL-RELATED DIDI SEEKS SHAH’S weekend lockdown im- Gandhi, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, his mission ordered stop- 4TH PHASE APRIL 20: EC VIOLENCE RESIGNATION posed to curb the spike Punjab counterpart Amarinder Singh and Chhattisgarh ping the voting exercise Baduria: West Bengal in Covid-19 cases. Two counterpart Bhupesh Baghel were among those who participated in the meeting. Rahul Gandhi called for at polling station num- TMC WRITES TO EC OVER ALLEGED APRIL 17, WEST BENGAL WILL CM Mamata Banerjee on senior government min- Turn to P6 putting money in the hands of the poor. Turn to P6 ber 126 in Sitalkuchi FIRING BY CENTRAL FORCES VOTE AGAIN FOR 5TH PHASE Saturday sought Union isters on Friday where the incident hap- Home Minister Amit Shah’s pened when polling was resignation over the killing underway. s the term of present Chief of 4 people in fi ring by Election Commissioner Sunil Meanwhile, in anoth- activists of the ruling fle took place, and locals The EC has sought a E-VOTING A central forces at Sitalkuchi Arora comes to an end on April er incident, an 18-year- TMC and the BJP. gheraoed them and at- detailed report on the in- in Cooch Behar. Banerjee, DREAM MAY 13, CEC in a freewheeling chat old voter, Ananda Bar- “According to prelim- tempted to snatch their cident. Earlier today, EC speaking at a public meet- with Jagdeesh Chandra, in The man, was gunned down inary reports, four per- rifles, following which said CISF personnel had ing at Baduria, said she BE A REALITY New JC Show, says the biggest outside booth number sons were killed as CISF the central forces to open fire during to would be leaving for Cooch BY 2024: CEC challenge is free, fair, acces- 85 in Pathantuli, also in personnel opened fire opened fire. Further de- “save lives of voters and Behar after attending sible, robust, ethical election & Sitalkuchi, after clash- after coming under at- tails are awaited,” a po- government property rallies, and would visit the ON JC SHOW ever since Covid - safe polls. P8 es broke out between tack in a village. A scuf- lice official said. like EVMs.” Turn to P6 incident spot. Turn to P6 ECI bans entry of leaders in SEC defers G’nagar Municipal Corporation polls Cooch Behar for next 72 hr sion also clarified that dates, who have also New Delhi: The Election fire allegedly when they Announcement follows manifold proceedings that have now finished filling Commission on Satur- were attacked by locals rise in nCoV cases, representations been completed so far their nomination day put in place certain on Saturday. will not be affected. forms. However, with restrictions, including “The ECI further di- from various political parties Only the remaining the recent jump in cas- extending the “silence rects that the silence pe- campaigning days, and es, even frontline war- period” from 48 hours to riod for phase 5 (i.e. for First India Bureau sioner Sanjay Prasad dates for voting and riors (elections staff) 72 hours, for the fifth polls scheduled on April states that the body had counting of votes will be can get infected,” he phase of polling West 17) shall be extended to Gandhinagar: Taking received representa- announced once the sit- had said. Bengal after violence in 72 hours and no cam- serious note of the tions from political par- —FILE PHOTO uation is under control. Chief Minister Vijay Cooch Behar district. paigning shall be per- spike in COVID-19 cas- ties including the Aam Earlier in the day, Rupani too had written It also barred the en- mitted during 72 hours es, the state election Aadmi Party, the Indian BJP state unit president to the SEC with a similar try of politicians in before the close of the commission (SEC) has National Congress and sentation was made by March 25. CR Patil had stated that request on Friday even- Cooch Behar district for poll in order to ensure decided to postpone the the Bharatiya Janata Gandhinagar’s Saher In his notification, the elections should be ing, after Congress state the next 72 hours to pre- the conduct of free, fair Gandhinagar Munici- Party, drawing its atten- Vasahat Maha Sangh on Prasad says that “free postponed in the larger unit president Amit vent any possible law and peaceful elections,” pal Corporation elec- tion to the surge in COV- March 18. This was fol- and fair elections will be interest of the public. Chavda to the Chief Jus- and order flare-up. an EC order said. tions which were slated ID-19 cases in Gandhina- lowed by a letter from held, without the threat “All political parties in- tice Natch asking that The decision came The silence period is to be held on April 18. gar as well as the state. Congress MLA Gyasud- of being infected by the terested in contesting the High Court of Guja- after four people were generally for 48 hours. A notification from The commission noted din Shaikh to Chief Jus- novel coronavirus” at a the GMC elections have rat direct the SEC to de- killed in the district as The order also said state election commis- that the first such repre- tice Vikram Nath on later date. The commi- announced their candi- fer the elections. central forces opened that in Cooch Turn to P6 NEWS www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 02 Where did Surat’s Kiran Hosp source its Remdesivir? Rs900 per dose, at a signed non-exclusive Trust-run hospital just brought in mark-up of about voluntary licensing 10K doses from Assam, but no 33%. agreements with US What caught peo- drugmaker Gilead licensed manufacturer has ops there ple’s attention is the Sciences to boost the fact that none of the supply of Remdesi- First India Bureau rest to other hospitals pharmaceutical firms vir injections. and patients at the licensed to produce This means that Surat: On Saturday cost of Rs1,235 per in- Remdesivir in India these six firms supply afternoon, Mathur jection. He also said has any manufactur- the entire country’s Savani, trustee of that the state govern- ing plant in Assam. demand for the drug. Kiran Hospital in ment had helped his According to He- Not only do none of Surat, told the me- facility airlift the mant Koshiya, Com- these firms have op- dia that his facility medicines from As- missioner of Guja- erations in Assam, but was awaiting 10,000 sam. rat’s Food and Drug their combined pro- doses of Remdesiv- Savani’s com- Control Administra- duction capacity of ir—the drug being ments—coming at a tion, only six firms— about three to four used to treat COV- time when the state Dr Reddy’s Labora- lakh doses a day, rais- ID-19 patients—from is facing a shortage tories Ltd, Zydus ing the bigger ques- Guwahati in Assam. of the drug—raised Cadila Healthcare tion: How did one hos- He said that Kiran eyebrows, and not Ltd, Biocon Compa- pital in Surat manage Hospital would use just because he ny Syngene, Hetero to procure almost 3% some of the consign- talked about selling Labs Ltd, Jubilant of the nation’s total ment for its own pa- the drug, which typ- Lifesciences and supply in one fell tients and supply the ically retails at Kiran Hospital claims to have sourced about 3% of the country's total daily production of Remdesivir. —FILE PHOTO Cipla Ltd—have swoop? Meanwhile, CR PATIL’S OFFER OF FREE across Gujarat… he state govern- T ment including Chief Minister Rupa- REMDESIVIR BOOMERANGS ni and Deputy Chief BJP state unit chief had announced the party would distribute 5K injections in Surat Minister Nitin Patel as well as numerous district collectors First India Bureau action against Patil. “No have publicly admit- one but a licensed phar- ted that there is a Ahmedabad: CR Patil, macist can sell or dis- shortage of Remdesi- the Gujarat chief of the tribute medicines. Patil vir injection, and should be prosecuted that they are trying has come under fire—not under the Epidemic Remdesivir distribution hard to streamline least of all from Chief Diseases Act, as well. in Vadodara. supply of the drug. Minister — This is not the over his promise to dis- time to try to tribute 5,000 free Remdesi- gain political On Friday, Vadodara has received 3,000 vir injections this week- mileage from injections, 2,168 of which have been sent end in Surat. people’s suffer- to 57 private hospital. We are expecting Patil’s announcement ing,” he said. another 1,000 injections on Saturday. on Friday comes at a time He also said —Shalini Agarwal, Collector, Vadodara when the state has been that if pharma grappling with a shortage companies On Thursday, the state announced that New of the injectable drug. In were supply- Civil Hospital and SMIMER would supply fact, many detractors on ing Remdesiv- Remdesivir injections to private hospitals. Twitter, where Patil post- CR Patil with Remdesivir stock. ir outside of However, within 24 hours, NCH and SMIM- ed his announcement, cit- the proper ER realised that they had limited stock and ed the state government’s channels, the could not supply to private hospitals. On invitation for bids for Congress Saturday, we received 2,500 injections, three lakh injections of would also be which have been sent to rural areas. the drug being used to interested in —Dhaval Patel, Collector, Surat COVID-19. buying them Others called into ques- and then dis- Rajkot has received 10,000 injections on tion the competence of CM tributing them Saturday, of which 7,000 have been re- Rupani, causing him to for free “to served for the Civil Hospital; 2,000 injec- promptly wash his hands meet the short- tions have been sent to private hospitals and off the matter. Replying to age”. 1,000 have been supplied to rural areas.” a question on Saturday Going a step —Remya Mohan, Collector, Rajkot morning, Rupani said, further, Con- “You should ask CR Patil gress MLA CJ By Friday evening, SVP Hospital had sup- where he managed to Chavda wrote to plied 5,000 injections to private hospitals. source 5,000 injections.” Foods and Surprisingly, however, Sola Civil Hospital Rupani also clarified that Drugs Adminis- and Civil Hospital Asarwa are yet to receive “not a single injection tration Com- any communication from the state on the is- from the state’s supply has missioner He- sue, or even an additional supply of injections, been handed over to Patil” mant Koshiya, to redistribute them to private hospitals. These for the BJP’s free distribu- saying that if hospitals have limited stock of injections tion programme. Surtis wait outside the local BJP office for their free injections on Saturday. the agency to treat their own in-patients. Patil shot back that he could sup- —Dr JP Modi, Superintendent of Civil Hospital, Asarwa, Ahmedabad had personally managed sivir injections in Surat and Druggists, pointed out fortunately, the state has ply 5,000 to source the medicine, on Saturday “to benefit that it was illegal to dis- not taken us up on our of- injections Zydus Cadila had resumed selling the injection at and hit out at the media people who are suffering tribute medication with- fer,” he told First India. to Patil, it should its hospital in Ahmedabad’s Thaltej area to con- for questioning his and with the shortage”. out a pharmacy licence. The opposition Con- also provide him sumers and patients’ relatives. However, on Friday the party’s good inten- However, the backlash “The Federation has al- gress party has also come 2,500 injections so he evening, the company announced that it would not tions. continued. ready approached CM Ru- down heavily on Patil. could distribute them sell from its Hospital outlet to individuals. He said he, along with Jasubhai Patel, presi- pani with an offer to share Senior Congress leader in Gandhinagar, —Mansukhbhai Mandaviya, Union Minister of State for Fertilizers and Pharmaceuticals party workers, had dis- dent of the Federation of its distribution network to Arjun Modhwadia has de- which is falling short tributed 1,000 free Remde- Gujarat State Chemists dispense Remdesivir. Un- manded that the state take of the drug.

LIFESAVER? 72% of all reported nCoV patients in March received Remdesivir Gargi Raval Typically, COVID-19 nessed 37,811 cases of oxygen levels fall below lll patients exhibiting seri- COVID-19 last month. 92% need it. Most doctors Gandhinagar: The ous symptoms are ad- During this time, a total only use it in an emer- Each patient state government has ministered six doses of of 1,63,716 Remdesivir gency, since it has shown claimed that about 80% the drug over a span of injections were used. At results in trials,” the ex- typically of COVID-19 patients in five days, starting with six doses per patient, pert told First India. Gujarat do not need any two doses on the first day, this means 27,286 pa- “At present, the doc- needs 6 treatment. However, explained pulmonologist tients, or 72%, were giv- tors or the patients do data shows that about Dr Vaishal Shah. en the injection in one not need any harmful ef- injections 72% of patients who “Patients in a critical month alone. fects. The majority of administered tested positive for novel condition are given two Surat-based Dr Milan patients—about 80%— coronavirus infection jabs of Remdesivir on Modi pointed out that do not need it. So doctors over the in March alone have Day 1, and one each for Remdesivir is not used to are using it as a trial been given Remdesivir, the next four days,” he treat any other diseases. medicine in emergen- course of the injectable drug tout- said. According to data “Remdesivir has be- cies. Such medicines ed as a lifesaver and from the state’s health come popular in the need at least two years of 5 days used to treat serious and family welfare de- treatment of COVID-19, experiments and trials,” cases of infection. partment, Gujarat wit- —FILE PHOTO but only patients whose he added. GUJARAT www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 03 A’bad continues to lead nCoV surge AAP launches as Guj daily jump crosses 5K mark helpline for State’s total case load has climbed to 3,42,026 and death toll has risen to 4,746 since March last year nCoV in G’nagar First India Bureau each), Surendranagar (29), Gir Somnath and Gandhinagar: Guja- Narmada (28 each), Val- rat reported one of sad (25), Banaskantha the highest increases (23). Cases were also re- in the number of ported in Devbhumi fresh cases of COV- Dwarka (18). Tapi (15), ID-19 since the pan- Aravalli (14), Botad (14), demic began, when Chhota Udepur (12), the state reported and Dang (12). 5,011 new cases in the With five new cases, 24 hours ended 5 pm Porbandar was the only on Saturday, accord- district in the state to AAP workers at the party’s Gandhinagar office. —FILE PHOTO ing to information report single-digits in from the health de- terms of its daily jump. First India Bureau partment. The day There are currently also brought 49 25,129 active cases in Gandhinagar: With Helpline Numbers: deaths. Gujarat, with 192 pa- the number of 8734970066 With the addition of tients in a critical con- COVID-19 cases in 9898141481 Saturday’s numbers, The state has not shared any recent data on the number of samples being tested for COVID-19. —FILE PHOTO dition needing ventila- Gandhinagar on Gujarat’s total case load tor support. the rise again, the 720295555 has climbed to 3,42,026 had four, Surendrana- continued its trend of cases. Bhavnagar (94), Juna- The high surges in Aam Aadmi Party and its death toll has gar and Gandhinagar reporting the most new Five districts record- gadh (93), Gandhinagar recent days has lowered (AAP) has launched risen to 4,746 since had two each, and cases in the state on Sat- ed new cases in the tri- (92), Kutch (52), Sabar- the state’s recovery rate a helpline to pro- ranged by the party. March 2020. Chhota Udepur saw one urday, when it reported ple digits: Rajkot (529), kantha (45), Mahisagar to 91.27%. vide essentials to On the reason be- Ahmedabad account- fatality due to COV- a whopping 1,440 cases, Vadodara (445), Jamna- (44), Navsari and Panch- Meanwhile, the state the families affect- hind the helpline, ed for 16 deaths, while ID-19. followed by Surat which gar (275), Patan (118), mahal (41 each), Dahod has inoculated 89.02 ed by COVID-19. AAP’s state media Surat saw 16, Rajkot The Ahmedabad Mu- also recorded a four- and Mehsana (102). and Kheda (38 each), lakh people since Janu- In the past five convener Tuli Baner- had eight, Vadodara nicipal Corporation digit surge with 1,152 This was followed by Amreli and Bharuch (32 ary 16. days, there has been jee said, “It has come a significant increase to our notice that en- in COVID-19 cases in tire families have Gandhinagar. AAP been infected due to has announced three the rising number of In Surat, man kills lover for wanting to marry him helpline numbers in cases in Gandhina- Gandhinagar to en- gar.” As a result, First India Bureau pital before being tak- police said, adding that sure that essential these families cannot en into police custody Patil decided to kill Ti- commodities reach go out to buy neces- Surat: The Lal Gate po- on Friday. wari because she was the families that have sary items. lice on Friday arrested Police said Patil ad- pressuring him to mar- one or more COV- Banerjee added a TRB (Traffic Bri- mitted to throwing Payal ry her. Patil reportedly ID-19 cases. that the party has an- gade) jawan on the Tiwari (name changed) told the cops that he told Families with in- nounced helpline charges of murdering into the Tapi river at Tiwari he would marry fected members un- numbers in all 11 a female TRB jawan, Shind Kheda in Maha- her and invited her to der quarantine and wards of the Gandhi- with whom he had rashtra during primary his native village on others can call any of nagar Municipal been in a relationship. questioning. March 31. He then the three helpline Corporation area to The accused, Rahul Patil, Tiwari and her pushed her into the riv- numbers. Essentials provide such necessi- Patil, tried to end his two children had been er on the way there. Ti- such as food and med- ties to the affected life to avoid being cap- together for the past six wari’s mother filed a icines would be deliv- households at their tured but was rescued years, after Tiwari sepa- complaint after her ered to their door, ar- doorstep. Rahul Patil has reportedly admitted his guilt. and admitted to a hos- rated from her husband, daughter went missing.

Expired injections being sold with ON A PRAYER AND A SONG fresh stickers, alleges V’dara NGO First India Bureau ID-19 patients who are seeking life-saving Vadodara: Remdesiv- drugs,” the memo says, ir injections with an calling for action expiry date of 2020 against what it terms are now being now the drug mafia. sold in the market “If such injections with fresh stickers are allowed to be sold— with a new expiry especially when the date, a non-govern- state is facing a short- mental organization age of the drug-then has alleged, and de- patients and their rela- manded that the dis- tives in need of Remde- trict administration The old labels can be found by peeling off the new ones. sivir injection will buy crack down on these them. Administering scamsters. pired medication can stock is now being sold such expired injections Convenor of Va- adversely affect their with fresh stickers with will put patients lives in dodara-based NGO health instead of help- a new MRP, expiry date danger,” it also said. Team Revolution Sejal ing them recover. and manufacturing The NGO has also ex- Vyas has submitted a The memorandum date and even a new pressed fears that the memorandum to the states that Remdesivir batch. The old stickers this scam may not be deputy collector de- injections introduced can be found by simply limited to Vadodara manding swift action to in the market last year, peeing off the new ones, city but may be part of ensure that COVID-19 which were sold at the memo adds. a larger plan to swindle With his daughter for company, travelling musician from Rajasthan Tarachand Gewar plays the ektara outside Zydus Hospital patients do not fall vic- Rs2,800 each, had a lim- “Someone is playing patients who are al- in Ahmedabad to give anxious relatives of patients a minute’s distraction. —PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI tim to this scam as ex- ited shelf life. This old with the lives of COV- ready at risk.

TAKING NO CHANCES Migrant workers begin exodus from A’bad, head back to home states First India Bureau the city. Not wanting fact, Zydus Hospitals of passengers were With rising to suffer through an- declared that it had no seen arriving at the numbers Ahmedabad: A huge other lockdown stock of medicines Kalupur railway sta- rush of passengers stuck far away from used to treat COVID-19 tion on Saturday. leading to has been spotted at home, without any patients on Saturday. With rapid transmis- the central bus sta- access to basic neces- The outflow of work- sion of the virus a rumours of a tion in Ahmedabad sities such as water, ers and residents of more likely possibility, over the past two food and shelter, other states has in- non-residents of the lockdown in days. With rumours workers have begun creased for fear of an- city seem to have of an impending to flooded bus depots other lockdown. deemed it prudent to the air, they lockdown circulat- to travel back. On the other hand, stay away from the city are making a ing, migrant workers With the number of inflow of people into for the time being, hailing from the COVID-19 cases surg- the city has drastically even as the state gov- beeline out of states of Uttar ing in Ahmedabad, hos- reduced as trains and ernment repeatedly Pradesh, and pitals are running buses arriving in announces that it has the city as a other northern short of life-saving Ahmedabad were no plans of imposing states have been drugs such as Remdesi- found to be mostly lockdown any time precaution scrambling to leave vir and Tocilizumab. In empty. Only a handful soon. PERSPECTIVE www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 04

IN-DEPTH THE MOTHER INDIA-RUSSIA TIES IN A OF NEWS STORIES CHANGING WORLD ORDER K NATWAR n addressing climate change, SINGH “winning” slowly is the same as losing. We have only one chance to fix this problem before it becomes The author is Former Minister I an existential threat, and the win- of External Affairs of India dow for action is closing fast. In addition to being time-sensitive, the cli- mate challenge amplifies every other crisis n August 15, 1947 all coun- we face, from the coronavirus pandemic to tries except the Soviet Union global inequality. Communicating its urgen- sent their greetings and cy in a clear, fact-based, and responsible man- good wishes to New Delhi. ner thus has become crucial. Without hard- On Gandhiji’s assassination hitting, accurate, and compelling reporting on January 30, 1948, Mar- and analysis of the problem, voters will not shal Joseph Stalin did not understand it, let alone demand solutions O condole Mahatma’s passing from the policymakers who can mobilize the away. Jawaharlal Nehru resources needed to confront it. sent his sister, Vijayalaksh- Owing to the sheer complexity of the cli- mi Pandit as Ambassador to mate challenge, we need experienced, com- Moscow in 1947. During her mitted, and knowledgeable journalists cover- two-year stay in the Soviet ing all facets of the problem full-time. As an Union Stalin ignored her issue that will affect everything on the planet and did not receive her. and all aspects of our own lives, climate Stalin’s view was that India change is not just some niche newsbeat. The was not a truly independent transition to clean, carbon-neutral energy country being a member of the implies an overhaul of the entire global econ- “British Commonwealth” omy – a transformation that will affect how which was an imperial set up. we work, consume, and care for our families. It was after Stalin’s death Already, almost every important news sto- on March 5, 1953, the change ry today must be understood within the con- in Indo-Soviet relations oc- text of the climate crisis, which is changing curred. Then came Jawaha- the rules of the game everywhere and for A whole gamut of rlal Nehru’s visit to the issues were discussed on economics, scientific and tech- almost every area of life. The journalists best bilateral issues USSR in June 1955. He was which there were no differ- nological as well as cultural co- suited to cover the challenge thus will be were discussed on received with great warmth, ences. On unfolding develop- operation. The ministers also “systems” thinkers, women and men who ex- which there were respect, and friendship. For ment in Afghanistan, Exter- MOSCOW IS IN TOUCH discussed bilateral military co- cel at drawing connections and then explain- no differences. On the next thirty-five years, nal Affairs Minister Jaishan- WITH THE TALIBAN AFTER operation including state of art ing them well. The task calls for a techno- unfolding Indo-USSR relations could ker observed, “For India STEPPING UP ITS weapons manufacturing. logical perspective, to trace the links between development in not have been closer. The ic- what happens in Afghani- INVOLVEMENT IN To a question about mili- the electric grid, mobility, buildings, and in- Afghanistan, ing on the diplomatic cake stan impacts our security di- AFGHANISTAN. I DON’T tary cooperation between dustry, as well as an ecosystems perspective, External Affairs was the visit of Bulganin V rectly. I shared our approach RECALL, WHEN A RUSSIAN China and Russia. Foreign to identify the links between extreme weath- Minister Khrushchev to India in 1960. that a durable peace there FOREIGN MINISTER LAST Minister Lavrov’s answer Jaishanker er, crop failures, global supply chain disrup- The Russian Foreign Minis- would require harmonising VISITED PAKISTAN- THERE was that “these relations do observed, “For tions, and financial risk. ter Sergey Lavro was in Delhi of all, both within and SEEMS TO BE A WIND OF pursue a goal of establish- India what Of course, many fine journalists already on April 6th and 7th. The Indi- around that country. The CHANGE IN RUSSIA-PAK ing a military alliance.” happens in are covering the climate crisis. It is they who an External Affairs Minister S. peace process must be based RELATIONS Afghanistan From New Delhi the Russian on foundational principles to have spread public awareness of the issue impacts our Jaishanker, at the opening of Foreign Minister flew to Islam- and done the hard work of exposing the false security directly. I joint press conference at the which we all subscribe. And abad, thus putting Pakistan and fraudulent arguments advanced by cli- shared our conclusion of the meetings be- a political solution should also on the high table, in the mate-change deniers and backed by the fossil- approach that a tween the two ministers said, mean an independent, sover- the longest-serving Foreign sub-continent. fuel industry. But there are still plenty of durable peace there “Though the World has changed eign, united and democratic Minister in the World. In his meeting with Paki- climate-related issues that warrant deeper would require in the last seven decades and Afghanistan.” In the press conference he stani Foreign Minister Shah coverage. When it comes to climate journal- harmonising of there have been different gov- This is to my mind is confus- said that ties between India and Mahmood Qureshi he said, ism, the more the better. As the Swedish cli- all, both within ernments on both ends, our ing hope with facts. Afghans Russia “are valuable, mutually “We stand ready to strength- mate activist Greta Thunberg says, everyone and around that ties, I am sure Minister Lavrov are only at peace with each respectful and they are not sub- en the anti-terrorist poten- is needed, and everyone is welcome. country. The peace would agree, have remained other when they are at war with ject to political fluctuations”. tial of Pakistan, including Established journalists who focus on other process must be uniquely strong and steady. each other. The Taliban may be The ministers discussed energy supplying Pakistan with topics need to understand how their areas of based on And the reason for that has lying low but could become including nuclear energy, special military equipment.” expertise fit into the climate challenge. Vet- foundational been our consistent ability to dangerously active any time. peaceful exploration of space, Moscow is in touch with the eran climate reporters need to support newer principles to which identify and update our shared The next complexity is the at- transportation, infrastructure Taliban after stepping up its journalists, by “passing the mic,” as the cli- we all subscribe. interests. We are both cog- titudes and interests of Paki- projects, including in the Rus- involvement in Afghanistan. I mate journalist and activist Bill McKibben And a political nisant of the multi-polar and stan, China and Iran. The objec- sian Far East and in the Arctic. don’t recall, when a Russian has done with his New Yorker column. And solution should rebalanced nature of interna- tives of Pakistan and China are He elaborated that in this re- Foreign Minister last visited influential voices online – whether they are mean an tional relations today. We both clear, keep Indian involvement gard Russia intended to organ- Pakistan- There seems to be a making videos on TikTok or building audi- independent, understand the importance of to the very minimum. ise a meeting of co-chairs as wind of change in Russia-Pak ences through Substack or Clubhouse – need sovereign, united our relationship to global Sergey Lavrov has been well as a scheduled meeting of relations. to use their platforms to spread the word. and democratic peace, security and stability….” Foreign Minister of Russia intergovernmental Russian-In- THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY SOURCE: PROJECT SYNDICATE Afghanistan A whole gamut of bilateral for seventeen years. Perhaps dian Commission on trade and THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Top INDIA PREPARES FOR KUMBH MELA TWEET assive crowds history, this festival is the RISING RELIGIOSITY Dharmendra Pradhan are expected to largest religious gathering In the past century the @dpradhanbjp gather at In- of its kind in the world. Kumbh has become so pop- India continues to lead the global dia’s northern Rooted in Hinduism’s ular that “half” versions – battle against #Covid19 under the vigil of PM @narendramodi. M city of Harid- ancient theological texts, Ardh Kumbh – are held Propelled by the ingenuity of our war throughout April 2021 the bathing ritual has sur- every six years. scientific & medical fraternity and for the religious festival of vived wars, revolution and The dramatic arrival of participation of citizens, Flag of Kumbh Mela, despite the famine – but its biggest the akharas – that includes India becomes the fastest nation to administer 100 million doses of country’s grappling with a threat has been epidemic 14 sects of Hindu and Sikh the #Covid19 vaccine. COVID-19 surge. diseases. Authorities from ascetics as well as warrior The Kumbh Mela is a the colonial British gov- monks often illustrated K C Venugopal @kcvenugopalmp Hindu pilgrimage held eve- ernment of the 19th cen- with exoticized photo- Remarks of Hon’ble Congress ry 12 years at sacred tirthas, tury to the Indian govern- graphs – has become the President at the meeting of or river-ford sites, along the ment today have had to signature visual of the Congress ruled States & Ganges River in India. contend with the challenge Kumbh. Congress Ministers from @ of managing the spread of INCIndia alliance States to review This year the govern- These tens of thousands the efforts to fight COVID-19 ment expects over a mil- contagion during this huge of ascetics, some dressed including availability of vaccines, lion pilgrims a day to bathe gathering of people. in saffron robes, some access to medicines & ventilators in the sacred river. Over 5 nude and covered in ash, million people are expect- FESTIVAL OF with wild dreadlocks, ed per day on the most aus- IMMORTALITY come riding on horseback, Spiritual picious days – April 12, 14 The festival celebrates the or in golden seats on ele- and 21 – for a total of a 100 Hindu myth of Samudra drops of the elixir fell to us, the water carrier, the The traditional start date phants. The processions SPEAK million celebrants. manthan – the churning of Earth, sanctifying the wa- time when the Kumbh Mela of the Kumbh, Makara are accompanied by loud As a scholar of Hindu- the cosmological ocean by ters where they landed. takes place. Hindus believe Sankranti, or the winter sol- drumming, conch blowing Always perform your duty ism, I celebrate this peace- the gods and demons to get The word Kumbh refers not that bathing in the sacred stice, is in January. Howev- and the sound of gongs as efficiently and without attachment ful mammoth congregation the nectar of immortality, only to the pot of nectar Ganges on the auspicious er, this year the festival was they enter the sacred wa- to the results, because by doing work without attachment one of humanity. Shaped by my- known as amrita. spilled on its way to the days of the festival leads to delayed by the Indian gov- ter, in wave upon wave of attains the Supreme. thology, astrology and soci- In the fight that ensued heavens, but also to the as- salvation from the endless ernment because of fears of humanity. —Bhagavad Gita ety over the long course of for the amrita, several trological sign of Aquari- cycle of reincarnation. the spread of COVID-19. SOURCE: THE CONVERSATION l Vol 2 l Issue No. 134 l RNI NO. GUJENG/2019/16208. Printed and published by Anita Hada Sangwan on behalf of First Express Publishers. Printed at Bhaskar Printing Planet Survey No.148P, Changodar-Bavla Highway, Tal. Sanand, Dist. Ahmedabad. Published at D/302 3rd Floor Plot No. 35 Titanium Square, Scheme No. 2, Thaltej Taluka, Ghatlodiya, Ahmedabad. Editor-In-Chief: Jagdeesh Chandra. Editor: Anita Hada Sangwan responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

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INDIA www.fi rstindia.co.in I www.fi rstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefi rstindia I facebook.com/thefi rstindia I instagram.com/thefi rstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 05

WEST BENGAL ASSEMBLY POLLS

MAHAYAGYA OF ASOL PARIBARTAN—PHOTO BY ANI ON MAY 2: PM Nadia: As polling for the fourth phase of the BJP candidate West Bengal Assembly TMC survey shows BJP winning WB: elections is underway, attacked in Prime Minister Naren- dra Modi on Saturday Kishor in ‘audio clip’ shared by BJP Hooghly said the ‘mahayagya’ of Kolkata: A controver- dared the BJP to re- see God in Modi. In Hooghly: Amidst ‘Asol Paribartan’ will sy erupted on Saturday lease the full conversa- Bengal, the Hindi- the ongoing polling begin in the state from amid the polling for 44 tion on Clubhouse, a speaking population is for the fourth phase May 2. assembly seats in Ben- social media platform, the core of Modi’s sup- of the West Bengal Speaking at a public gal, after the BJP re- and claimed that the port base. There is an- Assembly elections gathering in Krishnana- leased audio clips, one Saffron camp would ti-incumbency against on Saturday, BJP MP gar, he said: “BJP is the of which has TMC fail to bag more than the state government, Locket Chatterjee only party in the coun- election strategist 100 seats in Bengal. not the Centre. was allegedly at- try which has been re- Prashant Kishor pur- In the purported au- The audio clip trig- tacked in Hooghly’s ceiving ideological en- portedly saying that dio clip, which the PTI gered a political storm Chunchura. ergy from West Bengal. the “ruling party’s in- could not independent- in Bengal, with the She spoke to EC of- From May 2, the ‘mahay- ternal survey shows ly verify, Kishor is BJP claiming the TMC ficial saying that she agya’ of ‘Asol Paribar- BJP is winning”. heard saying “Modi is has accepted defeat was attacked by lo- tan will begin in Bengal. Sharing excerpts of hugely popular in Ben- and the ruling party cals at polling booth This mahayagya will Kishor’s chat with gal, and there is no accusing the saffron no 66 in Chunchura. teach a lesson to appeas- Prime Minister addresses an election rally, in Krishnanagar on Saturday. some journalists, doubt about it. He is camp of playing mind She also said that ers, extortors and those BJP’s IT cell chief equally popular like games. Reacting to the journalists were at- who neglect Bengal.” DID NOT VIOLATE MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT: MAMATA TO EC Amit Malviya claimed Mamata Banerjee”. development, senior tacked too. Mediaper- Election results will be that Banerjee’s poll The poll strategist TMC leader and MP sons’ vehicles cover- declared on May 2. strategist has already also apparently said, Dola Sen said the BJP ing polls were at- “Now, with the man- accepted defeat. “There is a certain per- is playing “mind tacked and vandal- tra ‘Sabka saath, sabka Kishor, on his part, centage of people who games. —PTI ised in Chunchura. vikas, sabka vishwaas’, the double engine of de- velopment will take LEAKING PRASHANT ’S FIR AGAINST EX TMC, BJP place, meaning the Cen- AUDIOTAPE IS BJP’S TMC MP IN MONEY DELEGATIONS MEET tre and Bengal will have BJP government. PM STRATEGY: TMC LAUNDERING CASE ELECTION COMMISSION stressed that the state Kolkata: The Trinamool Con- New Delhi: The CBI has Kolkata: Both the ruling TMC will move towards gress (TMC) termed the leak- registered an FIR against and BJP are not leaving any peace and tranquility ing of ‘Club House room’ audio former TMC Rajya Sabha stones unturned to malign each after decades of blood- chat of its election strategist member KD Singh for al- other in front of the EC. A del- shed, fear and violence Prashant Kishor a strategised legedly cheating 291 Kan- egation of the ruling TMC com- and will complete the mind games of the Bharatiya pur-based investors on prising TMC MP Saugata Roy concept of ‘Sonar Janata Party (BJP) to create a the pretext of providing and TMC Rajya Sabha MP Bangla”, he added. wave in favour of the party in them residential proper- Derek O’Brien visited ECI and “Now, the holy stream uproot the TMC govern- ers are coming out in such arrogance! Such poll-bound West Bengal. ties through his compa- requested to keep Kolkata po- will be freed from mafia ment and its goons from the open. A video is go- thinking!” said the Addressing media persons, nies Alchemist Infra Re- lice within 100 meters of the rule, cow smuggling Bengal,” he mentioned. ing viral on social me- Prime Minister while TMC MP Dola Sen said, “The alty Limited and Alche- polling booth. “There can be and intruders. People Earlier today PM dia where a leader addressing a public BJP friends have been circulat- mist Township Limited. language issues following will decide the govern- Modi slammed the Tri- close to Didi can be meeting in Siliguri. ing the partial audiotape since The agency took over a which there can be confusion ment, not the extortion- namool Congress seen insulting mem- Voting is underway Saturday morning. The com- 2019 FIR registered by the during the poll days. So we have ists. Police decisions (TMC) for ‘insulting’ bers of the Scheduled in 44 constituencies in plete audiotape including all Police in requested the ECI to keep state will be decided by the the Scheduled Caste Caste community. She 5 districts of West Ben- questions and answers should the case and was sent to police along with central forces police themselves, not (SC) community of the had said the SC com- gal during the fourth be released not the edited and CBI & was re-registered. to ensure free and fair polling,” the extortionists. The state. “The thinking munity in Bengal acts phase of the state As- partial version.” claimed TMC MP Saugata Bose. storm of Baisakh will of Didi and TMC lead- like beggars. Didi, sembly polls. —ANI

ASSAM POLLS IN THE COURTYARD 4 Assam polling stations to go for HC to hear PIL seeking Delhi court grants bail to re-polling on April 20, EC announces door-to-door vaccination bizman in GST fraud case New Delhi: The Delhi New Delhi: A Delhi New Delhi: The Elec- said polling stations in High Court on April Court on Saturday tion Commission (EC) accordance with the 12 will hear a Public granted bail to a pro- on Saturday announced Commission's instruc- Interest Litigation prietor of a private re-polling at four poll- tions contained in (PIL) seeking direc- company in connec- ing stations in Rata- Chapter XIII of Hand tions to Centre and tion with a case deal- bari, Sonai and Haflong Book for Returning Of- Delhi Government to ing with Central Assembly constituen- ficers, 2019." remove the age limita- Goods and Services cies of Assam on April The letter also direct- tions for deciding Tax (CGST) for gener- sions of CGST Act 20, 2021. ed the Chief Election upon the beneficiar- ating fake bills of over 2017 under the charges In a letter written to Officer of Assam to en- ies of Covid-19 vacci- Rs 50 crores. dealing with allegedly the Chief Election Of- sure that wide publicity nation drive. situation of resur- Chief Metropolitan issuing any invoice or ficer of Assam, the of fresh poll is given by The division bench gence of coronavirus Magistrate Pankaj bill without supply of Commission declared beat of drums in the of DN Patel and Jus- cases. The petitioner Sharma granted bail goods or services and void, the votes cast at polling areas of these tice Jasmeet Singh Mrigank Mishra, a to the accused on fur- allegedly availing in- these stations during The three-phased assembly election in Assam ended on April 6 polling stations and po- will hear the matter law student through nishing of personal put tax credit using the second phase of and the counting of votes will take place on May 2. litical parties, with con- on Monday. Petition advocates Kaushal bond and surety bond fake invoice or bill. state assembly elec- testing candidates be also sought direction Kumar, Harsh Ahuja, of Rs 5 lakhs. Accused The accused was tions on April 1, under the basis of reports sub- April 1, 2021 (Thursday) informed in writing. to concerned repond- Aaditya Kapoor and was in jail since Feb- represented by advo- sub-section (2) (a) of mitted, and after taking at four polling stations This comes after a ents to allow private Akashdeep Gupta ruary 27 after he was cates Rinku Garg and Section 58 of the Repre- all material circum- mentioned below video surfaced on social entities participation stated that the current arrested by the CGST Anubhav Gupta. sentation of the People stances into account, against the Assembly media purportedly of in vaccination drive system of vaccination department in connec- The court said the Act, 1951. The Commis- the Commission hereby Constituency to be void EVMs being found in a and carry out door-to- drive involves visita- tion with a fake input accused release will sion further stated that declares under Sub-Sec- and appoints April 20, BJP candidate's car in door Covid-19 vaccina- tion to vaccination tax credit matter of not interdict with the polling shall be held tion (2) (a) of Section 58 2021 (Tuesday) as the Patharkandi constitu- tion in the NCT of centres after securing more than Rs 50 fair investigation in from 7 am to 6 pm on of the Representation date and fixes the hours ency following the sec- Delhi in light of the an appointment on the crores. He was arrest- any manner after tak- April 20. of the People Act, 1951 from 7 am to 6 pm for ond round of polling in extremely alarming Co-Win portal. ed under the provi- ing note of his conduct. The letter read, "On that the poll taken on taking a fresh poll at the Assam on April 1.—ANI

YS SHARMILA TO ANNOUNCE INDIA, JAPAN TO HOLD 2+2 TALKS PARTY NAME ON YSR JAYANTI SR IPS SANJAY GETS ADDL AMID CHINESE AGGRESSION AVOID HARIDWAR ROUTE IF Khammam: YS Sharmila, on April 9, 18 years back CHARGE OF MAHA DGP Tokyo: India and Japan are Defence Minister Rajnath NOT VISITING KUMBH: COURT sister of Andhra Pradesh from Chevella, YS Ra- Mumbai: Senior IPS offi cer & Director General of planning to hold a “2+2” Singh. This will the second Dehradun: top police offi cial on CM YS Jagan Mohan jasekhara Reddy, former Maharashtra State Security Corporation, Sanjay format meeting of foreign such meeting between the Friday stated that those who are coming to the Reddy, to announce a CM of Andhra Pradesh, Pandey has been given additional charge as the and defence ministers in 2 countries as the inaugu- state but are not visiting Kumbh needs to go to new party name and will has begun his Pada Yatra Maharashtra Director General (DGP) of Police. Tokyo later this month, ral meeting of the India-Ja- Dehradun, Garhwal, or Kumaon Mandal, from launch fl ag on the occa- and he walked for 22 kilo- Sanjay Pandey was earlier DG, Home Guards with Japanese media reported. pan Foreign and Defence April 9 to 15 - which are the important days for sion of YSR Jayanti on metres each day. Listen- an additional charge of Maharashtra State Security According to NHK, Japa- Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) ‘’Shahi Snan’’. Ashok Kumar said that during the July 8. “On the occasion ing to problems of people, Corporation. Hemant Nagrale held the additional nese Foreign Minister Mo- was held on November 30, time, whoever does not have to come for Kum- of YSR Jayanti on July 8, YSR has walked through charge of state DGP, but when he was transferred tegi Toshimitsu & Defence 2019. As per Asia Nikkei, bh Snan and needs to go to Dehradun, Garhwal, 2021, will announce the places and that is incep- as the Mumbai Police Commissioner last month, Minister Kishi Nobuo are this comes as China ramps or Kumaon Mandal should avoid the Haridwar name of party and launch tion of various schemes the charge was given to the Director-General of due to attend the meeting up its activities in the route in view of the ‘’Somati Amavasya’’ on April the fl ag of the party,” said that were later brought by ACB Rajnish Seth, a 1988 batch IPS offi cer. with Indian External Affairs disputed East and South 12 and on other important days. YS Sharmila. “Exactly, YSR,” she said. Minister S Jaishankar and China Seas. INDIA www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 06 COVID-19 SECOND WAVE ‘ARROGANT GOVT ALLERGIC TO SUGGESTIONS’ Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed deep concern and lashed out at Centre over surge in cases New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Strict new ‘Covid vaccine Saturday called for giv- ‘Maha received least vax ing money into the curbs on public wastage area hands of common peo- doses, many vaccination ple during the second gatherings, of concern for wave of coronavirus, says Delhi govt centres facing closure’ Centre’ but lamented that the “arrogant government” New Delhi: The Del- Mumbai: Former more and more peo- New Delhi: The wast- is allergic to good sug- hi government an- Accusing the Centre ple but later they age of vaccine has gestions. nounced new restric- of indulging in poli- stopped giving us the been an area of con- “The failed policies tions amid an alarm- tics, Maharashtra vaccines. Maharash- cern for government, of the central govern- ing rise in coronavi- Cabinet Minister tra has received the National Health Au- ment has led to a terri- rus cases, banning Aslam Shaikh said least number of vac- thority CEO Dr Ram ble second wave of coro- most public gather- that state received cine doses. Now, a Sewak Sharma said, navirus and migrant ings and setting limits the least number of majority of vaccina- suggesting that con- labourers are forced to for attendance at res- vaccines and a major- tion centres across solidating smaller migrate once again,” taurants, theatres, on ity of vaccination state have been shut vaccination centres Gandhi said in a tweet public transport and centres were facing due to shortage of into larger ones can in Hindi. functions like wed- closure due to short- vaccine.” He further help address this is- “Besides increasing dings and funerals. age of doses. Speak- stated that smaller sue. Speaking at an vaccination, it is im- A view of the deserted road during a two-day lockdown to contain the surge in COVID-19 The new rules will ing to reporters, states have been giv- event organised by the portant to give money cases in Mumbai on Saturday. —PHOTO BY ANI stay in place till April Shaikh said, “Centre en more vaccines, but Public Affairs Forum into their hands - both 30, along with 10-pm- is doing politics. Ear- larger states like Ma- of India, Mr Sharma for the life of the com- taking good sugges- concern over the sec- taged the hardest. He to-5-am night curfew, lier more vaccina- harashtra, where said India has manu- mon man and the econ- tions,” he further ond wave of pandemic also reiterated his de- ban on all types of so- tions centres were there are more posi- facturing capacity but omy of the country. tweeted. The former hitting India & said mand for the basic in- cial, political, sports, opened and we were tive cases, have re- that does not mean But this arrogant gov- Congress President that virus attacks the come support by the entertainment gath- told to vaccinate ceived lesser doses. vaccine wastage can ernment is allergic to also expressed deep poorest and disadvan- Central government. erings in Delhi. be allowed.

Bihar policeman beaten Traffic diverted as protesting farmers Pentagon defends to death by mob in WB block KMP expressway in Uttar Dinajpur: A to- Navy ship asserting tal of three persons, in- New Delhi: Farmer cluding the main ac- Protest Against Farm Punjab farmers navigational rights cused have been arrest- Law Live Updates: protest against ed in connection with Farmer unions have in- the case, where a Bihar tensified their protest Centre’s direct Police official was beat- against the three farm benefit scheme en to death in Uttar Di- laws and has blocked najpur of West Bengal. the key Kundali-Mane- Punjab: Farmers and The Station House Of- sar-Palwal and Kundli- commission agents in ficer of Kishanganj Po- Police investigating the case. Ghaziabad-Palwal Amritsar went on strike lice Station in Bihar, highways for 24 hours against the Centre’s Ashwini Kumar suc- Suresh Prasad said, “He starting morning. direct benefit transfer cumbed to his injuries had come for a raid in The blockade started scheme, alleging that if implemented it will after being thrashed by connection with a bike at 8 am and would last Farmers block Kundli-Manesar-Palwal expressway for 24hrs destroy farmers.“We the locals of a village theft.” His body was 24 hours. The Samyuk- as they protest against three new farm laws, at Dasna, in have staged a strike under the Goalpokhar later taken to the Is- ta Kisan Morcha, an Ghaziabad on Saturday. —PHOTO BY ANI The US Navy announced that on Wednesday it conducted supporting farm- police station area on lampur hospital in umbrella body of pro- a freedom of navigation operation in Indian waters. ers who have been Bengal, police added. howal said the blockade Saturday. testing farmer unions known as the Western protesting for last few The officer had ven- The deceased police of- spearheading the agita- Peripheral Expressway. would be for 24 hours. months. If Centre’s Washington: The The Ministry of tured into the neigh- ficial was a 1994 batch tion against the agri- Protesting farmers, Traffic diversions have direct benefit transfer Pentagon has defend- External Affairs bouring area under inspector and a resi- culture-related legisla- however, said emergen- been planned by affect- scheme is implement- ed its Navy asserting (MEA) also contested Panjipara police station dent of Janakinagar in tions, on Friday gave a cy vehicles will be al- ed districts especially ed, it will destroy farm- its navigational the US Navy’s 7th while conducting raids Purnia district. He was call for a 24-hour block- lowed to ply. Bhartiya Sonipat, Jhajjar, Pani- ers,” General Secretary rights within India’s Fleet statement of to look for the culprit. posted to Bihar’s Kis- ade of the KMP ex- Kisan Union (Lakhow- pat, Rohtak, Palwal, of the Majdoor Union, exclusive economic April 7 that the free- Inspector General (IG) hanganj Police Station pressway. The 136-km- al) general secretary Faridabad, Gurgaon Punjab said. —ANI zone without taking dom of navigation of Police, Purnia last year. —ANI long expressway is also Harinder Singh Lak- and Nuh, Virk said. New Delhi’s permis- operation (FONOP) sion, calling the move by the guided-missile “consistent with in- destroyer USS John ternational law”. In Paul Jones “upheld IPL 2021: Dhawan, Shaw power DC to big win over CSK an unusual move, the the rights, freedoms, US Navy announced and lawful uses” of Mumbai: Openers Shi- deliveries as DC chased went for their big shots leather hunt put CSK that on Wednesday it the sea recognised in khar Dhawan and down a target of 189 with impunity, and on completely out of con- conducted a freedom international law by Prithvi Shaw pum- comfortably with 1.2 all sides of the test. of navigation opera- challenging India’s melled Chennai Super overs to spare. Wankhede Stadium, as While the CSK bowl- tion in Indian waters “excessive maritime Kings into submission New skipper Delhi Capitals raced ing attack had no an- without prior con- claims”. with their explosive Rishabh Pant hit the past 100 in quick time. swer to the strokes sent to challenge In- Kirby said that it is batting as Delhi Capi- winning runs.With Needing 90 runs in played by the DC open- dia’s “excessive mari- the responsibility of tals romped to a seven- Shaw and Dhawan in the last 10 overs and ers, what added to their time claims”, trigger- the US to uphold the wicket victory in their rollicking form, Delhi with all wickets in misery were two ing a reaction from freedom of naviga- Indian Premier League Capitals started on a hand, DC could afford dropped catches of New Delhi, which on tion and the rights opener here on Satur- rousing note and were to dictate terms and Shaw on 38 and 47, with Friday said it had and freedom and law- d a y. sitting pretty at 65 for put pressure on CSK. Moeen Ali being the conveyed concerns to ful uses of the sea Dhawan smashed 85 no loss at the end of the DC’s Prithvi Shaw bats during match 2 of the Vivo IPL 2021 That Shardul unfortunate bowler on Washington through recognised in inter- off 54 balls and Shaw six Powerplay overs. between Chennai Super Kings & Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Thakur and Sam Cur- both occasions. diplomatic channels. national law. —PTI amassed 72 in just 38 The two openers Stadium, Mumbai on Saturday. ran were sent for a —PTI

FROM PG 1

Bengal sees... PM condoles... come jittery because of peacefully from 2 to 4 murder”, and also would take at least 10 Centre terest of the nation “Recourse to open fire Modi, who addressed ground swell of support pm. Banerjee said she called for the resigna- days to overcome the mismanaged... above our own,” Sonia by CISF personnel be- two rallies at Siliguri for BJP,” Modi told an had long apprehended tion of Shah. —PTI shortage.—Agencies Sonia also reviewed the Gandhi said. came absolutely neces- and Krishnanagar in election rally in North that central forces efforts to fight COV- Rahul Gandhi ex- sary in order to save Nadia district, also ac- Bengal’s Siliguri. would act in such a India records... ECI bans... ID-19, including the pressed concern over lives of voters lined up cused Chief Minister manner. “As BJP knows spoke of the possibility district as central forc- availability of vac- the second wave of at the polling booth, Mamata Banerjee of Didi seeks... it has lost the people’s of an extended lock- es opened fire allegedly cines, access to medi- COVID-19 hitting the those of other polling instigating people “Shah should resign mandate, they are con- down in view of the when they were at- cines and ventilators, country. He urged the personnel and their own against central forces owing responsibility spiring to kill them.” stretched healthcare tacked by locals on Sat- chief spokesperson of government to look at lives as mob had at- and said the problem for the incident which She alleged this was system in the state. urday. “The ECI further the party She said all new mutations, which tempted snatching their lay with her politics of is dastardly, cold-blood- part of a conspiracy Meanwhile, manufac- directs that the silence public gatherings and are the source of the weapons,” stated Elec- “rigging elections and ed and unprecedent- hatched by Shah. turers of Remdesivir period for phase 5 (i.e. poll rallies should be second wave, and tion Commission. Ac- violence”. “What hap- ed,” the TMC supremo “However, I would ask said a lull in demand for polls scheduled on cancelled as the num- called for joining cording to official sourc- pened in Cooch Behar is said. She also appealed everyone to remain from December to Feb- April 17) shall be ex- ber of COVID-19 cases hands and energies, es, the preliminary re- unfortunate and sad. I to people to remain calm and cast their ruary led to low or zero tended to 72 hours and is on the rise. “Mass instead of complacen- port submitted by EC’s extend my condolences calm. The chief minis- vote peacefully. Avenge production of the anti- no campaigning shall gatherings for elec- cy and premature vic- special police observer to the bereaved families ter said her party the deaths by defeating viral drug for three be permitted during tions and religious tories. Vivek Dubey said a huge and urge the Election would bring out pro- them,” Banerjee as- months, which subse- 72 hours before the events have accelerated He also pointed to- mob of around 350-400 Commission to take test rallies throughout serted. Later, at a press quently affected its sup- close of the poll in or- COVID for which all of wards a direct connec- people had gheraoed the stern action against the state on Sunday, conference in Kolkata, ply chain. The manufac- der to ensure the con- us are responsible to tion between the spread central forces, following those responsible. and asked TMC activ- TMC leaders termed turers said they did not duct of free, fair and some extent. We need of the infection and which they fired in “self- “Mamata Didi and her ists to wear black badg- the Cooch Behar inci- anticipate such a sud- peaceful elections,” an to accept this responsi- nutrition and liveli- defence”. —Agencies TMC goons have be- es and demonstrate dent as “preplanned den surge, and that it EC order said. bility and keep the in- hood. —Agencies NEWS www.fi rstindia.co.in I www.fi rstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefi rstindia I facebook.com/thefi rstindia I instagram.com/thefi rstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 07

BY TRIDIB FIRST INDIA SUNDAY SPECIAL der his leadership, the suspected that they can RAMAN party supremo Sonia change colours at any The author is a journalist Gandhi handed over the time. This is the reason and political commentator state’s command to Bhu- that when Soren visited and views expressed are his pendra Singh Hooda. Delhi last time, he met personal The fear of Opposition Rahul Gandhi as well as parties is not only visi- Amit Shah. Recently, PREPARATIONS TO MLA. Given this, Chi- ble in Assam, where a when he joined Union MERGE LJP WITH rag’s party and his fam- candidate of the Con- Transport Minister Ni- BJP ily are constantly in dan- gress alliance changed tin Gadkari through hen politics ger of breakdown. Be- return into the NDA alli- people. However, sud- April 15, 19, 26 and 29. their mobile phones are sides to the BJP during video conferencing, Gad- W changes colour, fore Assembly polls, ance. So senior BJP denly she received an Anyway, only a few no longer with them. the elections, Opposition kari opened his heart to the colours of even the many rebel leaders of strategists have advised order from her mother months are left in the UP These are the candidates parties have been facing Soren. Gadkari told him biggest political leaders Bihar BJP had joined Chirag to ‘merge his par- Sonia Gandhi that she Assembly elections for with the possibility of the same fear in Kerala that if they can get the changes. If sources are LJP. Chirag had also giv- ty with BJP’, so that Nit- should keep her focus which Priyanka has victory, among whom the and Bengal, where BJP land acquisition and ap- to be believed, Chirag en LJP ticket to these ish cannot stop him from confined to UP. Party formed 8 teams. That is, number of candidates of strategists are well proval of the Ministry of Paswan may merge his rebels, but all these lead- wanting to become a sources claim that in in a way, 10 Janpath has Badruddin Ajmal’s AI- aware of the weak links Forest and Environment party with BJP in com- ers were defeated, and minister at the Centre. fact Sonia wants that if made it clear to Priyan- UDF is much higher. The of UDF and TMC that done and provide good ing times. Recently, Raj- now it is said that they Chirag still has the age the Congress performs ka that Rahul will re- process of other coali- can change the path even officers, “We will make kumar Singh, the only are looking to return to at his side, and he has to better in Kerala, Assam main the country’s lead- tion candidates coming after victory. the roads of MLA of Chirag’s Lok parent party -BJP. There play a long political in- and Tamil Nadu, then er while she should con- to Jaipur may also con- like West Europe and Janshakti Party (LJP) in is another way in front nings, so he is seriously the credit should only be fine herself to UP only. tinue, as Congress is WHAT’S COOKING America in three years”. Bihar, joined Nitish Ku- of Chirag i.e, to join contemplating this pro- given to Rahul, who has worried of horse trad- BETWEEN SOREN Gadkari also said that “ mar’s JDU. Even before hands with friend posal. been working hard in ‘BATTLE’ ASSAM ing. Sources say BJP has AND BJP? The Centre is ready to Singh, more than 200 Tejashwi Yadav and these states for a long FAR FROM OVER! made it clear that it is ensing the changing give Rs 5,000 crore to LJP leaders have taken form an alliance with WHY IS PRIYANKA’S time. So, with two days hatever be the worried about the con- S times, Chief Minis- state’s road construc- shelter in Nitish camp. RJD. But in past, this CHARM NOT left in the election cam- W election results of duct of its big leader in ter of Jharkhand and tion department. ‘Gad- Even many MPs from move of LJP was com- WORKING? paign, Priyanka with- Assam, the face-to-face the state. Hemanta Jharkhand Mukti Mor- kari’s approach has hid- Chirag’s party are said pletely smashed in Bi- n the Assembly elec- drew herself, stating battle, between BJP and Biswa Sarma, who clear- cha Supremo Hemant den far-reaching effects, to be in contact with Nit- har, when Ram Vilas Pas- I tions of five states, that her husband Robert Congress alliance, has ly feels that if the BJP Soren has started in- which is an announce- ish, one of whom is wan held Lalu’s hand in Priyanka Gandhi was Vadra has tested Covid become interesting. once again gets an abso- creasing closeness with ment that if Hemant Chandan Singh, brother the 2004 elec- coming out as the big- positive. So, in a changed Even if the election re- lute majority in the state, the BJP. He is constantly Soren comes under of Surajbhan Singh. tions and Paswan’s gest star campaigner scenario, Priyan- sults are to come on May his claim to the post of afraid that the BJP can BJP’s shelter, he Even Chirag’s un- LJP could win of the Congress ka has shifted 2, the BJP seems to be chief minister will be change the game in can continue as cle Pashupati Pa- only 4 seats. party. Her meet- her focus to busy in the efforts to sidelined. Hemanta feels Jharkhand when- CM. The BJP ras maintains a So, Nitish has ings in states like UP where form the government that his dream of becom- ever it wants, be- is also said to soft corner to- now put Chi- Assam and Kera- the upcom- from now on. Sensing ing Chief Minister can cause the 10 Con- be eager to wards Nitish, as rag on his tar- la were attract- ing Panchay- the change of loyalties be fulfilled only in a gress MLAs in play the same Nitish made him get this time ing large crowd, at elections of its candidates, the ‘Hung Assembly’. Even his government game in non- a minister in his and with him and in a way her are to be Congress alliance has once in Haryana, when are arguably in BJP states like govt without around, LJP does charisma was held on sent 20 of its candidates Bhajanlal was the state touch with Maharashtra Paras be- not have a pos- starting to to a resort in Jaipur for president and the state BJP and and Ra- ing a Chirag Paswan sibility of engulf the Priyanka Gandhi their protection, even election was fought un- it is Hemant Soren jasthan. Shamlaji police Unemployment No respite: Kin of nCoV dead say seize IMFL worth `2.38L drives migrant Bhavesh Barot worker to suicide crematoriums seeking bribes Himmatnagar: Police ‘Take token number and wait in line for hours, or pay `1.5-2K to jump queue’ arrested three per- sons and seized 197 First India Bureau bottles of Indian- made Foreign Liquor Surat: Not even death (IMFL), worth ap- can protect you from proximately Rs2.38 corruption, say fam- lakh, hidden in a car ily members of a de- near the Shamlaji- ceased person who Ratnapur highway have accused a local border checkpoint. crematorium of de- Shamlaji Sub-Inspec- manding bribes for tor Ashish Patel and his cremating their team who had stopped loved one who died the car for a routine in- after contracting spection of vehicles en- COVID-19. They say tering the state, found First India Bureau he had committed sui- that the cremation the occupants acting cide. Police have sent centre demanded as suspiciously. As a result, Rajkot: A 32-year-old the body for a postmor- much as Rs2,000 to they conducted a thor- man from the city al- tem examination and fasttrack the final ough search of the vehi- legedly committed are still investigating rites. cle found the liquor suicide by hanging the incident. They accused the stashed in a secret com- himself from the ceil- The victim had previ- Ashwini Kumar cre- partment beneath the ing of his house. Lo- ously worked in a jewel- matorium at Dharam Kin of patients who succumbed to COVID-19 show the tokens that crematoriums have started issuing to manage the rush. rear seats. cal police have identi- lery store in the city for Nagar in the city of Laxminarayan Nai fied the victim as Su- the previous 15 years, taking bribes from complainant, Harish The crematorium has started issuing However, he added Manoj, alias Pappi Aro- shant Katal. Accord- but has been unable to people to avoid Gurjar, the manage- tokens to deal with the rush. However, that the cente will ra, and Anil Vijaysinh ing to police, the per- find work in the last two lengthy queues. Ac- ment of the Ashwani on Saturday, I found that a person had look into the allega- Rajput, both of Rohtak, son allegedly took the months. Katal was also cording to sources, as Kumar centre began tions and investigate Haryana, have been drastic step as he had said to be in financial many as 15 dead bod- handing out tokens his relative cremated without taking a token. he the matter. booked for violating the been depressed and trouble after losing his ies are brought into to avoid crowding on said he had paid Rs2,000 to jump the queue. The Ashwini Ku- state’s Prohibition unemployed for the job at a jewellery show- the crematorium each the premises. Anoth- —Harish Gurjar, mar centre is one of Laws. Police sources past two months. room, police said. day. Around three am- er person, Ramesh Kin of deceased, who waited six hours to cremate his relative three crematoriums said the liquor was on Sub Inspector JM Originally from West bulances are brought Patel, claims that the in the city. The wait- its way to Surat. It is to Bhatt of the A-division Bengal, Katal had shift- into the centre each centre’s manage- ing time at the centre be remembered that two police told the media ed to Rajkot in search day, the sources add- ment is taking ad- for bribes. the Ashwani Kumar is around six hours on constables were arrested that they received a call of work. He lived with ed. vantage of the grow- According to Bh- centre, such activities average, sources fur- earlier this week for from a member of the his wife and their five- According to the ing crowds by asking agubhai, who works at are not encouraged. ther said. smuggling booze. victim’s family saying year-old son.

SUMMER HAS COME ‘No bird, animals died in 3K forest fires’ —PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI Dinesh Kumar Sharma A total of 48 trees were gutted in said downplayed these three years, as state saw 22% rise incidents. “Now we have a high- in forest fires, Guj govt says er alert system in place and so even small inci- First India Bureau were gutted during dents gets noticed. This this time. is a satellite-based moni- Gandhinagar: Even as The information was toring of the Forest Sur- the state saw a 22% in- revealed in response to vey of India where we crease in forest fires an unstarred question get alerted whenever over the three years asked by Congress MLA there is fire. So our between 2018-19 and from Bhiloda, Dr Anil Most fi res occurred in tribal areas with dense forest cover. teams act in time,” Dr 2020-21, no birds or Joshiyara. Sharma said, adding, animals were killed in Most of these forest During this three year gadh which houses the “During the summer, these fires, according fires occurred in tribal period, higher number Gir sanctuary, reported villagers go to collect to government data ta- areas with dense forest of forest fires were re- 43 forest fires during this Mahuda and toddy. They bled during the recent- cover. For instance, be- ported from other dis- period. tend to burn these flow- ly concluded budget tween 2017-18 and 2019- tricts such as Narmada Principal Chief Con- ers and sometimes this session of the Gujarat 20, Dang district report- (382), Tapi (347), Dahod servator of Forests causes fires. Most are As temperatures soar, students of BJ Medical College were spotted sharing a dupatta to Assembly. However, a ed 545 incidents--the (295), Valsad (252) and (PCCF) and Head of For- ground fires where lit- protect themselves against the heat of the sun on Saturday afternoon. total of 48 of trees highest in the state. Mahisagar (238). Juna- est Force (HoFF), Dr tered dry leaves burn.” One of the best ways to be immortal and live forever is to be a kind and compassionate person, you will live on in the thankful prayers of others. —Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, First India 2ND FRONT www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 08 Zindagi mein complete satisfaction jisko hui, wo khatam ho gaya: Arora Editor-In-Chief of First India, Jagdeesh Chandra, in The New JC Show, speaks to CEC Sunil Arora about how conducting Bihar polls during Covid pandemic was an uphill task, his post-retirement plans & how holding free & fair elections continues to be biggest challenge even today... z After a historic and most difficult decisions, but nothing happened af- when the report comes. dynamic tenure of 31 which the Commission ter that. We have moved months you are going took, was to organise the proposal against that z What about Nandi- to retire on April 13. Bihar elections. Due to we should be much more gram incident where How are you feeling? Corona, no one was talk- sympathetic for Indian EC was seriously Normal. How would I feel? ing of elections. But we diaspora and I had spo- thinking to initiate ac- picked up the gauntlet. ken to Foreign Secretary tion against her….? z After 25 Assembly It was a leap of faith for and had discussion in US We only responded to the elections and one Lok us, & not a leap in the also. I found them empa- letter in which at the end Sabha election, you dark. It was just not a thetic. They have sug- was written that we are should be feeling matter of saying, our of- gested ‘across the board’ examining the incident. something. Some sort ficials worked very hard meeting of stakeholders. of achievement? for it, our Secretary Gen- I am sure the incoming z And communal We try to do our job to the eral Umesh Sinha, Bihar CEC will do it on priority. speeches. There was best of our abilities and in in-charge Chandra her communal speech? accordance with the Con- Bhushan, and Bihar CEO z Any differentiation The Commission has is- stitution and all the laws. Srinivasan. And many between Gulf coun- sued notices to both Suv- And we do not always people asked me that tries and non-Gulf endu Adhikari and the keep looking back that why was I going to Bi- countries? CM also. Let’s see what who is praising today and har? I told them that No, not at all. Such con- answer is received. who is criticising. Chalta when my officers visit CEC Sunil Arora in a candid conversation with Jagdeesh Chandra during the New JC Show. cepts are not in our sub- hai, it is part of life. there how can I be seated conscious even. Do you z Don’t you think there here? ondly, from LS polls, we and ever since Covid - think that while sending has been very less vio- z Some sort of com- We studied the voting have started deputing safe election. proposal, we will say that lence in West Bengal plete satisfaction? pattern there, increased Special observers, who Gulf countries are ex- than was expected? Zingadi mein complete polling booths that re- are very senior retired z There is a new trend cluded? Do you think that Yes, you are right. The satisfaction jisko huyi, quired additional man- officers to take care of since 2017-2019, many even the stupidest EC will common men, we al- wo khatam ho gaya. So, power. We had to increase the overall situation, the people defect to other do it or even think of it? ways talk of, are the you never get complete around 35,000 polling sta- law & order situation, & parties, contest and most uncommon. They satisfaction and never tions and despite that Bi- the expenditure. Dis- even become ministers. z Why was then this can give most pleasant get complete happiness. har turnover was better tricts observers are be- Should this tendency question raised in a surprises and the most But yes, reasonable satis- than previous elections. ing deployed for last 35- be stopped? certain lobby? obnoxious shocks. So, faction, more than rea- Women electors’ turnout 35 years, but Special ob- It is for the political par- I do not know. Ask them, pay attention to them. sonable satisfaction. was much better. Some servers were deployed as ties to meet and take a who raise such issues. officials joined election an exception. call. As a citizen what I You should call them on z You formulated the z So, after April 14, duty after recovering say, is different. But as a the JC show and talk to entire strategy for after a active life, it from Corona. An IG also z Was the number of ob- CEC, one has to look into them. If there is need of West Bengal elections, may be interim period died on duty and we rec- servers more this time? the laws, and there is debate, I will come. but are now leaving for a moment, what is ommended award for No. It is not a mathemati- nothing in the law that midway. Feels agenda for post-retire- him and job for kin. Bi- cal formula. It depends has been assigned to an z You had given a strange? ment life? har almost became a tem- on the overall perception EC in this regard. Yes, statement before elec- No one is indispensable. I won’t be singing plate for us and I should of the state. Perception one thing I should say is tion that ‘Bengal is a Any institution is quite bhajans. I believe in God say a template for the rest of law and order, expend- that, for example Model challenge but we will larger than any individ- a lot, but won’t be sing- of the country. iture. As such seizures of Jagdeesh Chandra greets CEC Sunil Arora. Code of Conduct, was a deal with it swiftly ual. Even if I think so, it ing bhajans. cash, liquor, gold by Spe- product of years of dia- and ruthlessly’. So, will be gross disrespect z So some sort of cial observers have been Tune into First India to watch logues between EC and how Bengal is differ- for the institution, I re- z the political parties. So, when we talk of unique achievement? much more this time. the exclusive telecast of The New ent than any other gard so much. your historic and dy- What unique! If other Similarly, if defection state while handling namic tenure in Elec- CEC or EC had faced z 300 crore plus? JC Show with CEC Sunil Arora per se, all these things the election process? z In reforms, you had tion Commission of such circumstances, More than that. on Sunday & Monday at the fol- should be discouraged. West Bengal represents made an effective sys- India, apart from five- when the nature cannot lowing scheduled timings: history of Indian Herit- tem of protection for six big reforms that wait and there is a con- z You had given very z April 11- 2.25 PM & 7.55 PM z In Corona times, big age and culture. Renais- officers against moti- you executed during stitutional scheme of encouraging remark z April 12- 2.25 PM political rallies are sance movement started vated political harass- 31 months in the Com- things, they could have for the BSF... being held. How to from here. It has been ment. What is that? mission, what do you done it as well. It was a fact. A delega- handle them? the leader of the country It was found that our think is your biggest tion of the AITMC had z As you said for z Certain actions We are holding meet- and the leader of the CEOs are harassed after contribution to the z Yes, but leadership attacked the BSF and we Mamata? raise eyebrows on the ings to discuss how world in many ways. But the government chang- Commission? counts. had asked them for spe- I did not name anyone. I credibility of the Com- laws can further be in its overall atmosphere es. We strongly took up Without any flamboy- It’s your presumption. cific and verifiable facts do not have the habit of mission, IT raids on strengthened. over the years, a percep- some cases and got jus- ance, we try to do our job so we could take action. naming. I haven’t taken Stalin’s son-in-law in tion has come that voters tice also. We made a under the radar. Using z Absolutely, it’s uni- In a press conference, I any names in my entire Tamil Nadu… z ‘One Nation One face hurdles to come to norm that the Commis- word ‘I’ in the Commis- versal presumption. had just said that it is one tenure. That is not related to us. Vote’ concept is being the polling booths. Its sion should be consult- sion is wrong. The Com- There is one more pa- of our finest forces and Not because MCC is im- discussed for long. not the perception of a ed, if their posting is mission moved a propos- rameter of Election they are looking after z So you are totally posed. MCC does not What is the future? EC, but of all political changed after a year. We al to the government, Commission’s perfor- our borders. It was convinced that free mean that authorities A desirable goal but still parties. As per the NCRB are striving hard to get it that was accepted, was mance. Public percep- founded by the iconic po- and fair elections are don’t act against crimes. not possible unless the record too, the parame- implemented at the dis- that of the optional post- tion, that is poll per- lice officers like Rustam- being held? When there is a political life of the ‘Houses’ is ters are alarming. trict level also. al ballot for 80-year-old centage. That has been ji (Khusro Faramurz We have done our best. angle to it, they have to aligned. For that, mas- and above, specially- unique in these recent Rustamji) and Dewan Rest, it is people of the inform us as they in- sive change in the Con- z But then why is there z You had called Late abled, and personnel of state elections. Even Ashwini Kumar and if county, who decide. We formed us about Madhya stitution and the RP Act direct confrontation Dr Pranab Mukherjee essential services. Fur- during Corona times, there is still any evidence cannot pass judgment ulti- Pradesh. A 200-page re- are required. between EC and….. for a function. ther, we have many re- figures show in Kerala on the contrary, provide mately on our own selves. port was sent which we No, there is no confron- He delivered first Suku- forms in the pipeline. IT 70%, Tamil Nadu 65%, it to us. sent to DoPT to be sent to z What are your views tation. We have respect mar Sen (first CEC) lec- enabling has been done in Assam 82%, Puduch- z In Assam, there was the CBI. Similarly, in Ta- about the E-voting for leaders of all politi- ture. Mukherjee was not at large scale gradually. erry 78%, and phases z You are trying your a case of a minister mil Nadu, two elections progress? cal parties. But we have well and rescheduled his The ‘cVIGIL’ is the big- in West Bengal 84%, best, but people still getting banned for 48 were rescinded. But to In e-voting, we have al- no control over leaders events but kept this lec- gest empowerment to 86%, and 78%. These raise fingers whether hours that was re- even presume that all ready started a project giving statements. ture. Now the lecture will the citizens. It was start- are miraculous figures. polls are free and fair. duced to 24 hours? normal laws of the coun- about two years ago and it be an annual feature, we ed on test basis in Ben- Jagdeesh ji, in these elec- Sometimes Rahul He tendered unqualified try stop operating be- is our proposal, wish, and z A heart burning is- also renamed a hall as Su- galuru and we decided tions, we have done two- Gandhi speaks, some- apology. In a case of cause MCC is in opera- ambition that in 2024 elec- sue- 8 phases? kumar Sen Hall, have during the LS polls to three basic changes. times Randeep Sur- EVMs, though seals were tion, is a complete and tions, the dream should Seven phases were in constituted a chair for TN implement it across the Wherever we go, we lis- jewala says so? intact, 6-7 people were gross misinterpretation turn into a reality. Lok Sabha. There is his- Sheshan, and an ‘Elec- country. This facility has ten to the representa- As a matter of policy, we suspended. A similar case of law of the land. tory. toral Democracy Muse- become one of the most tives of political parties never comment on indi- happened in West Bengal, z Anything about de- um’ will also be set up. important tools for em- because they are the viduals. Why they say so, where 6-7 people were sus- z Electoral bonds? lay in counting process z In Tamil Nadu 243 powering citizens. With most important people you call them to your pended. When there were We have already made that remains an issue seats, here 294… z As an outgoing CEC, this, we are trying to link after voters in the elec- show as ask them and elections in Rajasthan, the stand clear in the Su- with political parties? It does not matter. Ground would you like to say Aadhar card with EPIC tion system. All opposi- talk to them. But wher- MP, and Chhatisgarh, preme Court that we Then they say stop EVM, situation is quite differ- something to the Com- (Electoral Photo Identi- tion parties say that the ever political parties ask there were just five inci- want a scheme far more start paper ballot. With ent here. In Tamil Nadu mission or in general ty) card. I had discussion ruling party does not al- us in written, we reply to dents out of 1.36 lakh transparent and we have paper ballots, counting expenditure observers to the voters? on this with Law Minis- low voters to come out. them. It is their right to EVMs but the media, spe- reiterated it time and process will take three to are more, here (West Ben- I have told you about the ter and I feel that this They also allege that ask questions, it is our cially electronic media again. Now, it for the four times more time, if gal) law and order observ- common man and West will materialise soon. state forces are compro- duty to answer. kept on highlighting the Hon’ble Supreme Court not more in declaration ers are more. Bengal summary you When Aadhar has be- mised. It is not that what- five incidents. to give a judgment. of results. have drawn out. Hawadis come a medium for all ever they say is always z Usually the allega- z How does Commission se ulajh kar muskurana direct benefit transfers, true. I am just summaris- tion is that the Election z EVM is a tragedy! z In your view, what z So, postal ballots views leg fracture of Didi meri fitrat hai, mujhe then why can’t it be used ing what they say, I am Commission is acting Both the winners and are challenges before are not being allowed (Mamata Banerjee)? dushwariyon me ashk for voting rights? not giving value judg- as an extension of the losers criticise it. the Commission to NRIs? What is the They have already regis- barsana nahin aata. And through your ment. We gave equal role Central government. They do not criticise on Challenges continue. controversy? tered a case, we have medium, I would like to to CRPF officials in ran- How you see it? the same day, but do so The biggest challenge is There is no controversy. sought a report. The During the show #JC- say that, it is not about domisation of force and It is very unfortunate. It after two days, after a free, fair, accessible, ro- There was an announce- Chief Secretary said that withSunilArora trend- reforms, but one of the in deployment. And sec- is factually incorrect. week or a month. bust, ethical election ment in 2011 in Jaipur, they will get back to us ed all India on Twitter www.fi rstindia.co.in I www.fi rstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefi rstindia facebook.com/thefi rstindia I instagram.com/thefi rstindia 09 AHMEDABAD, SUNDAY APRIL 11, 2021

Heartfelt TRIBUTES he world was left saddened by the demise of Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh and condolences have been pouring in for the grieving Royal Family. From heads to states to people across the world to celebs in show- biz, everyone has been offering tributes to the Royal Family on their loss. T Priyanka took to social media to express grief over the demise of the Duke of Edinburgh. She shared a tweet and wrote, “So sad to hear the news today. #RestInPeace Prince Philip.” She added a folded hands emoti- con in her tweet to offer prayers. —Agency

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Anushka Sharma Major missing HUGE nushka Sharma is one of the actress- es in Bollywood who loves to wear her Revelation heart on the sleeves. The Jab Tak Hai A Jaan actress shared a beautiful post ue to the ongoing Covid-19 for her brother Karnesh Sharma and Tripti pandemic, several movie re- Dimri who was seen playing the lead role in leases have been delayed. her production Bulbul. Anushka captioned DTara Sutaria shared her the image as, ‘Major missing’ along with heart thoughts on the same. The in eyes emoticon. The actress, like everyone actress has two film releas- else, clearly wishes this pandemic to end soon es for Tadap and Heropan- so that a reunion can take place. —Agency ti 2, lined up for this year; however, she’s optimistic about the release Kangana Ranaut calendar.“My wish for Ranthambore diaries 2021 is safety for every- ctor Ra- one who comes to watch hul Dev our films. It would be plays an Seeking Blessings wonderful if there were A investi- no hindrances in the mul- gating officer in ctress Kan- connected from the Kangana shared pho- tiple releases that were the upcoming web gana Ranaut world and prayed to tos from her trip to announced.” She elabo- film ‘Raat Baaki took time off Lord Shiva while do- the ashram. In one of rated. The diva explained Hai’, and he par- A to visit the ing meditation. Due the photos, Kangana how difficult the filming ticularly enjoyed Sadhguru Ashram at to the rising cases of can be seen sitting in process has been for her shooting portions their headquarters COVID 19, Kangana’s front of the Shivalin- and the entire team espe- of the film in Ra- and shared photos on film Thalaivi also was ga and praying to cially during these trying jasthan. Rahul social media from postponed. Taking to Lord Shiva. times. —Agency said that he had a there as she dis- her Twitter handle, —Agency great time explor- ing Ranthambore Tara Sutaria Rahul Dev National Park dur- ing his free time. Contrary to the ctress Felicity sombre mood of the murder mys- Jones said tery, Rahul said the mood was that it was an Intense situation light on the set and the cast, also A intense expe- featuring Annup Sonii and rience giving birth to in the really scary lock- Graham Norton Paoli Dam, had fun. —Agency a baby during the down when we were all ad- Show, according to pandemic. “I made vised to wash our groceries femalefirst.co.uk. banana bread three and we didn’t know what She added: “To times and burnt it was going to happen. It was have a baby in an each time. I had a pretty intense, but having apocalyptic mo- Crooked avatar baby in the first kids is intense anyway. The ment is pretty alt Disney one. It seems pandemic just added a lit- scary.” o n ages ago now tle extra,” she said on The —Agency Wednes- W d a y dropped a new trailer and poster for its all- new live-action feature Got it back film ‘Cruella’, starring Academy Award win- man who broke into ners Emma Stone and Shawn Mendes and Emma Thompson. Walt Camila Cabello’s Disney released an intrigu- A house was arrested ing trailer of the much-an- by the Los Angeles Police De- ticipated film. It sees the ‘La partment on Thursday. Cops La Land’ star in the film believe the suspect entered about the rebellious early the couple’s home last month days of one of the cinema’s while they were home and most notorious - and notori- stole the keys to Shawn Mendes’ ously fashionable - villains, the Mercedes G-Wagon and fled in it. legendary Cruella de Vil. Fortunately, for the singer, he got Along with the trailer, they his ride back in surprisingly good wrote, “This May, the Devil condition about a week later when Gets Her Due. See #Cruel- cops found it parked on a residen- Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello la in theatres.” —Agency tial street. —ANI Emma Stone Felicity Jones ETC www.fi rstindia.co.in I www.fi rstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefi rstindia I facebook.com/thefi rstindia I instagram.com/thefi rstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 10

ARIES WEEKLYWEEKLY LIBRA MAR 21 - APR 20 SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

Your week should get off to an explosive start -- in Libra: Be careful in your relationships as the week a good way! Monday suits your adventurous spirit begins. Monday will present you with some interesting perfectly, as you fi nd exciting and unexpected choices (in work and possibly romance, too) and opportunities for meeting new people and trying you’ll need to work hard to strike a balance between new things. Watch for the pace to slow back down, selfi shness and selfl essness. From Monday evening though, by Monday evening and on into Wednesday. APRIL 11– APRIL 17 and on through Wednesday, your famous grace and You’ll need to rely on your (yes, ample) charms diplomacy will take centre stage. Expect admiration rather than your can-do attitude to make things and applause -- but expect for your skills at arbitration happen. On Thursday and Friday, expect a fl urry of AS ANYA TAYLOR JOY TURNS 25 THIS WEEK ON APRIL and alliance-building to be called on, too. On Thursday communication, in person, on the phone or over and Friday, don’t go it alone. Find people to share your email. You’ll need to think fast to keep up. 16, IT IS PREDICTED THAT SHE IS GOING TO HAVE THE thoughts with, especially if that involves taking a risk. TIME OF HER LIFE THIS YEAR. JUST LIKE HER, WHOEVER CELEBRATES THEIR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK, HAVE A SPECIAL HOROSCOPE WHICH IS SAID TO BRING TAURUS GREAT HEALTH, POSITIVITY AND GOOD FORTUNE. SCORPIO APR 21 - MAY 20 YOUR CAREER AND HOME ARE IN ACCORD. THIS CAN OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22 Take your time! Put faith in your usual pattern of Look out for confl ict as the week begins. Monday patience as the week begins -- even if you’re feeling could fi nd you butting heads with someone the urge to jump the gun on Monday. From Monday BE VERY EFFECTIVE AND REWARDING ABOUT who doesn’t share your point of view, but a little evening on through Wednesday, you won’t need to selfl essness on your part could defuse the situation. hold back at all. You’re full of energy and enthusiasm, FINANCIAL MATTERS AND PERSONAL AFFAIRS! From Monday evening through Wednesday, you which could turn out to be a very attractive might still fi nd yourself at odds with the ideas and combination. On Thursday and Friday, focus on agendas of others, but the competition is apt to short-term schedules and details. It’s not a good be much more good-natured and spirited. Fight a time to make any long-term commitments (especially good fi ght, but be willing to fi nd a compromise, too. fi nancial ones). This weekend, take a risk and let On Thursday and Friday, read the fi ne print. This others know how you feel. weekend, surrender control and go with the fl ow.

GEMINI SAGITTARIUS MAY 21 - JUNE 21 NOV 23 - DEC 22

Seek out the advice of good friends (and even work Count on getting a lot done as this week begins. associates) as the week begins. You’ve got good Your usual carefree attitude will be eclipsed by a big instincts on Monday, but you’ll have even more burst of energy on Monday, so you can’t help but be luck hitting the mark with a little friendly guidance. productive. From Monday evening and on through From Monday evening on through Wednesday, you’ll Wednesday, your cheerful adaptability will be put need to fi ght your more fl ighty qualities. Flitting to the test, as you’re called on to juggle countless around from conversation to conversation is still details and demands. On Thursday and Friday, don’t okay, but just make sure you pause to concentrate worry if you can’t seem to get much done. Words on any obstacles that crop up. Thursday and Friday can be even more effective than actions right now. aren’t good days for follow-through, but they should This weekend, follow your mood and don’t back provide plenty of opportunities. down from diffi cult questions.

CANCER CAPRICORN JUNE 22 - JULY 23 DEC 23 - JAN 20

Your brain is still in high gear as the week begins. Put a priority on family and history as the week Expect to have a quick wit and a sharp memory on begins. Monday should fi nd you refl ecting on your Monday -- but just be sure you think before you big-picture legacy -- and fi guring out how you can speak. That mental might should transform into ensure safety and stability in the long term. From irresistible charm on Monday night and continue Monday evening through Wednesday, your creativity on through Wednesday. Use that boost in charisma should climb, helping you fi nd innovative ways to to socialize, especially in large groups. Others get things done and have some fun at the same time. will look to you to take the lead. On Thursday and Thursday and Friday are both good days for making Friday, take a walk on the wild side. You need to yourself clear -- so don’t hesitate to close down challenge expectations and try something new. rambling discussions and cut to the chase. This This weekend, you’ve got a lot of energy. weekend, deal with the issues at hand.

LEO AQUARIUS JULY 24 - AUGUST 23 JAN 21 - FEB 19

Start your week off by learning something -- or Expect your head to be fi lled with downright meeting someone -- entirely new. Monday should electrical ideas and inspiration as the week begins provide unexpected opportunities to challenge your -- and Monday should prove an excellent time to own opinions and you’d do well to take them. From put some of these amazing discoveries into action. Monday evening through Wednesday, you might Your preoccupation with peculiar and intriguing fi nd yourself obsessing over ego and status. A little ideas should continue through Wednesday, even healthy self-confi dence is a good thing, of course, if all you’re really doing is keeping yourself from but just make sure you’re doing things for the right getting bored. On Thursday and Friday, watch for a reasons (i.e., not just to show off). Thursday and little romance to keep things interesting, especially Friday are both good days to meet up with friends if it involves an intellectual connection that turns to and engage in some wild-eyed brainstorming. fl irtation.

VIRGO PISCES AUG 24 - SEP 23 FEB20 - MARCH 20

Get in touch with your true sense of purpose as the Mystery swirls around you as the week begins. week begins. Monday should give you a good chance Monday could fi nd you faced with riddles to solve to pause, refl ect and embrace your priorities anew and puzzles to piece together, but nothing you can’t -- but be aware that your renewed perspective could handle. From Monday evening through Wednesday, bring you into confl ict with others. From Monday express your more affectionate, compassionate night and on through Wednesday, look for chances side, whether that means making a romantic dinner to travel and expand your outlook, even if it’s just a or just telling someone special how you feel. On short (or even metaphorical) journey. On Thursday Thursday and Friday, don’t let anybody nail you and Friday, use your fi nely tuned intellect to tackle a down to anything specifi c. You need to maintain pesky problem, but just take care to make sure you your emotional and mental fl exibility right now. This communicate clearly. weekend, the world is your stage. ETC www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 11 BEST IN TOWN event were: the CEO of Wedding Sutra, Par- thip Thyagaranjan as the Chief Guest; and Dr KARISHMA Jaydeep Mehta, Presi- GWALANI dent of Event Manage- [email protected] ment Federation Glob- al (EMF) and Priyatam Sogani, MD, Heiwa he event indus- Heaven Resort as the dis- try has seen tinguished guests. great fluctua- In this ceremony, sev- Vineet Jain, Arpit, Parthip Tyagrajan, JD Mehta and Sameer Babel during the lamp lighting tions due to the eral felicitation awards T COVID-19 pan- were given out under dif- demic and the ferent categories like Su- event managers man Raina, Vivek Shar- have done their best to ma, Satish Gopalani, An- stay afloat. This spirit kit Srivastava and Bhan- was felicitated in the war Singh for Best Event Best In Town Awards Company (Corporate); (BITA) Season 4, organ- Vivek Sharma, Sajjan ised on Friday, late even- Gill and Prasanjeet Ma- ing in Heiwa Heaven Re- loo for Best Event Com- sort at Jamdoli. BITA’s pany; Rajeev Kapoor for Founder, Gunjan Singhal Best Hotel General Man- said that the event indus- ager; Fairmont Hotel try has been through won in the luxury catego- Parthip Tyagrajan being honoured with a momento by tough times during the ry of Best Wedding Hotel; Gunjan Singhal, Rajeev Kapoor and Jaydeep Mehta coronavirus crisis. In this Jai Mahal Palace in the situation, we have gath- Palace category and Hai- ered here to motivate and va Haven Resort in the encourage these COVID Resort category. This warriors together in this year Eventsthan will be felicitation ceremony. celebrated on cruise for 2 About 140 people were days. In this renowned honoured in 42 catego- wedding planner, pan In- ries in this event. Rajku- dia will participate. Gun- Pankaj Sharma being honoured by Sunil Sonkhia, Anshul Jain, mar Taluka and Babulal jan Singhal, who is owner MR Kothari, Manjeet Singh and others Mali were honoured with of Eventsthan IP, further the Lifetime Achieve- added that it will be ment Awards. Among the called ‘Cruisesthan’ this dignitaries present at the year. Rrahul Tanejaa being awarded with Most Stylist Icon of Event Industry Award

BITA Founder Gunjan Singhal honouring the ones we lost in Covid time, Family of Sunder Electric Decorators, Ranak Baid, Gunjan Singhal, Yogesh Mishra, Jagdeep Mehta, Rrahul Taneja, Sameer Babel, Neeraj Adhalakha and Rajeev Sharma being honoured Prithvi Pal Singh and Family Devender Shashtri and Vineet Jain announcing this year’s Eventsthan Convention on Cruise for Best Security Agency

Kafila Band awarded with Best Live Band by Indu Khatri, Islam Choudhary, Priyatam Sogani Monika Tomar, Jagdeep Mehta, Sameer Babel and other guests Team BITA 2021 addressing the guests

Rajeev Kapoor, Indu Khatri, Gaurav, Sameer Babel, Rrahul Taneja, Jagdeep Mehta, Vineet Jain Yolo Hospitality being awarded Gold by CP Rathore, Pritesh Sharma, and other guests honouring Fairmont Jaipur team as Best Luxury Hotel Ajay Agarwal, Babula Mali and others —PHOTOS BY SANTOSH SHARMA STAY MASKED

CITY GET VACCINATED BUZZ www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2021 12

EVERY DROP MATTERS CITY FIRST

he grooming ses- sion of Swar Koki- la Season 7 was held at Hotel Grand T Safari, Jaipur on Saturday. Minister SWAR KOKILA of Women & Child Development, Mamta Bhu- pesh graced the occasion and encouraged women to explore their territories, rather than be fixated in one room in the house. Modern women are known for their flexibility in Governor Kalraj Mishra has extended his support to Sonal Maheshwari handling work at Charitable Trust, an initiative to avail water for the wandering birds. Under the office as well as home, Mamta Bhupesh with (from left) Meenakshi Johari, Kamlesh Garg, Madhu Goyal, Shagun Goyal, the leadership of the coordinator and social worker, Gokuldas Maheshwari, therefore they must dedi- Prasang Sharma, Sunita Vaishnav, Manali Goyal, Meena Jain, Nidhi Goyal, Veena Modani, Monali Mathur, the initiative will begin on Wednesday, April 14. He has begun the initiative Sunita Sharma, Sweta Sharma, Dr Yogita Sharma, Shanti Bhatnagar,Bhargavi Jaldhari and Komal Chauhan cate some time to listen to at Raj Bhawan and has encouraged everyone to follow the same. their inner voice and en- hance their talents. Nidhi COURTESY MEET! Goyal, President-Swar Kok- ila mentioned that she initi- ated this platform to pro- vide a stage for women who often do not get a chance to showcase their talent of singing. The sessions were led by Veena Modani who offered tips for vocal exer- Jagdeesh cises to further polish their Chandra with skills. Mamta Bhupesh addressing the audience; Mamta Bhupesh being greeted by Nidhi Goyal, Congress [email protected] also seen here Pawan goyal and Pramod Goyal Madhu Goyal and Shanti Bhatanagar leader Bharat Singh Gadoli, during a courtesy visit by the latter on Saturday. Gleeful Celebration WHAT’S HAPPENING!

Mugdha Sinha conducting a live demonstration BOTTLE ART BY Hastimal Saraswat celebrating his birthday with children

MUGDHA SINHA RAJIV GAUR, JODHPUR and welcomed him by pur Municipal Corpora- CITY FIRST putting tilak on his tion, Ghanshyam Ojha, RAJ: Shilpi Foundation prepped up for their upcoming programme, ‘Isar astimal Saras- forehead. philanthropist neurosur- Dhandhan Chaali Gangaur’, as they assemble to mark the importance of live demonstration wat, Advocate Hastimal Sar- geon Dr Nagendra Shar- the day and revive the festival vibes. —PHOTO BY NAIM KHAN on ‘Bottle Art’ was of Rajasthan aswat a re- ma, RK Ojha Sushil Sar- conducted by sen- H High Court nowned lawyer aswat, Vinod Sharma A ior civil servant and State President of who had taken the Rajkumar Sharma Su- and artist, Mugdha Sinha International Brahmin case of actor Salman dhir Saraswat and other in Sukriti Gallery, Jawa- Art by Mugdha Sinha Federation, celebrated Khan when he was ac- officials and activists of har Kala Kendra on Satur- his birthday with the cused for the case of deer the International Brah- day. The demonstration exhibition some day. My children at the Lav Kush hunting. min Federation were pre- was a part of her ongo- art brings me happiness Institute, Jodhpur. Chil- Luv Kush Place Direc- sent during the celebra- ing two-in-one art ex- and helps me relax af- dren engaged happily tor of Rajendra Parihar, tion along with his family hibition –‘Bottle is ter a long day. After I during the celebration former Mayor of Jodh- members. Canvas’ and ‘Free- complete all my dai- hand Meditative ly tasks for the day, I Mandalas’. The exhi- like to sit and take the bition showcases bottle time to paint my bottles. RAJ: On the occasion of World art which has been done on It helps refresh my mind. I Convocation ceremony Homeopathy Day, Homeopathy empty discarded bottles of am inspired by the beauty Richers Association, Jaipur held different shapes and varie- of nature all around me. I a session where Dr Rajiv Nagar ties. Mugdha Sinha men- feel that art provokes you RAJ: Soumya Jain was been shared his views about diseases tioned, “I have been mak- and acts as a wonderful appointed as the zonal President that can be cured with the help of ing my art for a long time medium of communica- (Jaipur) of the Indian Beauty Homeopathy. He further put light now but I never worked tion.” Association on Thursday. The on celiac diseases that incur due thinking I would put up an [email protected] oath-taking ceremony was led by to the consumption of products the state President (Rajasthan) that contain gluten. DA Nagar, Kalpana Jilani who welcomed her DA Yogendra, Kirti Jain, Monica CITY FIRST ment of Rajasthan. The Chancellor of to the team and shared words of Jain and Dr Yogesh Khandelwal AWARDING THE BRAVE! the University Dr Ashok Gupta presid- encouragement for the upliftment were present during the session he IIS University hosted its 9th ed over the function. Padma Shree Prof. of the beauty parlour industries. among other dignitaries. The founder, Shailendra Mathur and director, Nisha Mathur Convocation on Friday, where Sukhdeo Thorat, Former Chairman of, of Bhavya Foundation shall host The International Friendship Conference and Red Diamond Achiever Award 2020-21 on Sunday, over 1700 students were award- University Grants Commission and In- April 11, at Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura where cancer T ed their degrees at the IIS dian Council of Social Sciences and warriors and specially gifted people who have been leading an Kshipra Path’s A P J Abdul Kalam Au- Research, delivered his convocation ad- extraordinary chapter of their life will be felicitated. ditorium while adhering to all the Cov- dress with the theme of equality. id-19 guidelines issued by the govern- [email protected] JEENA ISI KA NAAM HAI CITY FIRST human beings. Bhawna Jagwani, the RAJ: Madhu Bhat, a known FJCF, the pioneer Convener of the NGO name in the Rajasthani NGO in the field of Or- released the Poster of music industry has gained gan Donation in Ra- ‘Jeena Isi Ka Naam hai’ another feather in her hat M jasthan has always in the Organ Donation GUJ: ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India as she was awarded for the been active and innovative while Office on April 10, Satur- (AM/NS India) contributed to the symbolic recognition of her grasp in doing activities for the aware- day. Also present at the event foot march (Padyatra), which marked the Rajasthani Classical Songs. ness of Organ Donation. This were Ram Avtar Sharma and P C 91st anniversary of the historic Dandi Pandit Vishwamohan time they have struck a new Jain. The Musical Evening shall March led by Mahatma Gandhi. AM/ Bhatt, the famous Mohan cord of connecting the noble be live on the official FaceBook NS India arranged a tableau vehicle, Veena Vadak says in her cause with Songs and Music. From left: Capt Amarjeet Sangwan, Renu Singh, Neelam Sharma, page of MFJCF on Sunday at 5 which was moving along with the praise, “Madhu has done MFJCF has collaborated with Dharmendra Chhabra, Deepak Tatia and Ravi Kamra PM. The Performers are Dhar- march, providing drinking water, bottled outstandingly different from the Musical Group, ‘Sur Se Su- mendra Chhabra, J.K.Panwar, lime juice, biscuits, snacks, etc. to the other singers in her age koon tak’ to design an evening Neelam Sharma, Sanjay Kau- marchers or padyatris. They offered group. She is a versatile of Music by the very name ‘Jee- led by the versatile singer of shall present songs on this shik and Ravi Kamra. water, bottled lime juice, snack packets singer who will make a na Isi Ka Naam Hai’. This group Jaipur Dharmendra Chhabra theme related to this quality of [email protected] and lunch to the padyatris. mark in the future.”