QUICKREADS

AAP and BJP spar as Delhi govt orders closure of 170 mohalla clinics

The Aam Aadmi Party criticized the Delhi government's decision to close 170 mohalla clinics, claiming it will affect around 20,000 patients daily. In response, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva accused the AAP of corruption and mismanagement, asserting that many clinics lacked proper medical staff and facilities. The BJP plans to open 1,100 new Ayushman Arogya Mandirs by April 2026.

Kinnar Akhada splits, ‘Sanatani’ splinter group formed

The Kinnar Akhada has split, with Kaushalyanand Giri, or "Tina Maa," forming the Sanatani Kinnar Akhada in response to actress Mamta Kulkarni's increasing influence. Tina Maa, previously a Mahamandaleshwar, accused the Akhada's leadership of imposing decisions and compromising the community's integrity. The new Akhada will formally declare her as Acharya Mahamandaleshwar following consecration rituals.

Taking wife’s jewellery alone doesn’t amount to cruelty: HC

The Delhi High Court ruled that a man cannot be charged with cruelty towards his wife solely for taking her jewelry, as it does not constitute "cruelty" under Section 498A of the IPC. The court emphasized that allegations must be supported by evidence and clarified that a man can still be charged even if the marriage is declared invalid.

Five years after collapse, masjid dome awaits restoration efforts

The 200-year-old Masjid Mubarak Begum in Old Delhi, once a glorious structure, has suffered neglect since its central dome collapsed in 2018. Despite multiple site visits by officials and a stalled restoration agreement with the World Monument Fund, no repairs have been made. The mosque, built by Mubarak Begum, symbolizes her historical significance and power in a male-dominated society.

Delhi CM reviews Delhi air crisis, orders strict action on polluters

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta held a meeting to address rising air pollution, implementing measures like continuous water sprinkling and regular road cleaning. Special teams will target polluting industries and vehicles, with fines for waste burning. Meanwhile, opposition leaders criticized the government’s handling of pollution, claiming air quality has worsened. BJP officials defended their record, citing recent improvements.

Pharma diploma first year trimmed to 5 months due to delay in college approval

The Diploma in Pharmacy course's first-year duration in Pune has been reduced to five months due to delays in approvals from the Pharmacy Council of India. The academic session runs from October to April 18, 2026, with three internal exams scheduled before the annual exam on April 30. Students will face an intensive crash course to complete the syllabus.

SC tells DDA to plant 167k trees across 185 acres by March 2026

The Supreme Court ordered the Delhi Development Authority to plant 167,000 tree saplings across 185 acres by March 2026, following illegal tree felling in the Delhi Ridge area. The court emphasized the need for effective afforestation and monitoring to ensure sapling survival, mandating a comprehensive scheme and biannual progress reports from the DDA and Delhi government.

Roundabout | Will take a step less but shall walk with swagger

Filmmaker Gurvinder Singh, known for transforming Punjabi cinema, began his journey with the short film ‘Pala’. His notable works include adaptations of Gurdial Singh's novels, such as ‘Anhe Ghore da Daan’, which highlighted caste issues. His latest project, ‘Rehmat’, features stories by Ajeet Cour and stars Naseeruddin Shah, marking a significant addition to Punjabi film.

Haryana’s sex ratio shows signs of recovery

Haryana's Sex Ratio at Birth has improved to 913 girls per 1,000 boys from January to October 2025, up from 905 in the same period last year. This eight-point increase reflects effective enforcement against illegal sex-selective abortions, with 16 out of 22 districts showing gains. Health officials anticipate further improvements if the trend continues.

PWD issues SOPs to curb cost overruns

The Delhi Public Works Department has implemented new arbitration guidelines to identify lapses by officials in projects with cost escalations. The chief engineer must examine arbitration cases and recommend accountability if the award exceeds 10% of the project cost. The department has removed arbitration clauses from contracts, directing officials to ensure client departments pay arbitration awards or face court involvement.

1992 JJ hosp shootout: Discharge, bail plea of 63-year-old D-gang ‘shooter’ rejected

A special TADA court in Mumbai denied bail and discharge for Tribhuvan Rampati Singh, implicated in the 1992 JJ Hospital shootout linked to gang rivalries. The court cited sufficient evidence and potential for evidence tampering if bail were granted. Singh's defense of mistaken identity will be examined during the upcoming trial set to begin later this month.

ACP fails to repay money to staff, suspended a day before retiring

An assistant commissioner of police from east Delhi, Rohtash Kumar, was suspended a day before his retirement for allegedly borrowing and not returning large sums of money from multiple officials and public individuals. Complaints against him had been ongoing, leading to an inquiry by the Vigilance department. His suspension was communicated on the day of his farewell party.

Haryana cabinet approves jobs for one family member of each 1984 riot victim

The Haryana Council of Ministers approved an amendment to provide compassionate employment to family members of 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims. The decision allows eligible individuals to seek jobs through the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam. Other approvals included the Haryana Abadi Deh Ordinance for ownership rights, amendments to land purchase policies, and enhancements to the Governor's discretionary grant limit.

Cardiac, respiratory ailments rise across age groups: Doctors

Air quality in the Capital is deteriorating, leading to a rise in respiratory and cardiac issues across all age groups. Doctors advise against outdoor activities during peak pollution times and recommend masks, air purifiers, and a diet rich in antioxidants. Children are particularly vulnerable, with a spike in respiratory problems reported. Hospitals are seeing increased cases related to pollution.

28-year-old cyber offender arrested from Noida

Delhi Police arrested Sumit Kumar, a 28-year-old man who hacked the social media accounts of two women, including a minor, and blackmailed them. He had previously fled after being granted interim bail. Kumar, who gained expertise in phishing while working in IT, extorted multiple women and was found in Noida after years on the run.

14-month-old boy hit by SUV, killed; driver held

A 14-month-old boy named Raunak was killed in a hit-and-run incident involving a 20-year-old student, Samar Choudhary, in north Delhi. The accident occurred as Raunak's mother was taking him to a local market. Choudhary, arrested by police, was reportedly en route to a car wash when the tragedy happened. Investigations are ongoing.