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Itanagar Celebrates International Women’s Day 2026 with Enthusiastic ‘Trail Run’ Marathon

Rahul Kaushik
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Itanagar Celebrates International Women’s Day 2026 with Enthusiastic ‘Trail Run’ Marathon

March 7, 2026 — In a vibrant display of strength, health, and solidarity, the streets and trails of Itanagar came alive today as hundreds of participants gathered for the International Women’s Day (IWD) Marathon 2026. Organized by the Department of Women and Child Development (WCD), Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the event served as a precursor to the global celebration of womanhood on March 8th.

The marathon, themed around empowerment and fitness, saw women from all walks of life—ranging from students and athletes to working professionals and homemakers—participating in a spirited trail run that underscored the resilience of the women of the frontier state.

A Run for Empowerment and Health

The event was flagged off early in the morning from the DK Convention Center, with the finish line set at the iconic Indira Gandhi Park. The cool morning air of Itanagar did little to dampen the spirits of the runners, who gathered as early as 6:00 AM.

According to officials from the WCD Department, the marathon was not just a sporting event but a platform to raise awareness about women’s rights and physical well-being. This year’s run was particularly special as it integrated with the ‘Fit India Women’s Week’, a state-wide initiative running from March 6 to March 8, focusing on nutrition, mental health, and breaking barriers in sports.

Winners and Recognition

The competition was fierce yet celebratory. The organizers announced significant cash prizes to encourage athletic talent among the local women:

  • First Prize: ₹15,000
  • Second Prize: ₹10,000
  • Third Prize: ₹5,000
  • Consolation Prizes: Awarded to the top 10 finishers to acknowledge their grit and determination.

Beyond the competitive aspect, the “Trail Run” format allowed participants to connect with the natural beauty of the capital region, promoting eco-tourism and outdoor fitness.

Global Theme, Local Action

The 2026 International Women’s Day global theme, “Give to Gain,“ was echoed throughout the event. Speakers at the flagging-off ceremony emphasized the importance of community support and mentorship in helping women reach their full potential.

As the state prepares for the main International Women’s Day celebrations tomorrow, the success of the Itanagar Marathon stands as a testament to the growing movement of women’s empowerment in Northeast India.

Saudi Defense Minister Meets Pakistan Army Chief Amid Escalating Regional Tensions

Rahul Kaushik
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Saudi Defense Minister Meets Pakistan Army Chief Amid Escalating Regional Tensions

New Delhi, March 7, 2026 — In a move that underscores the rapidly shifting security landscape of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman, met with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Saturday. The high-level meeting focused on the recent surge in regional hostilities, specifically addressing Iranian drone and missile attacks that have targeted the Kingdom.

Strengthening the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement

The discussions held in Riyadh were centered on the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA), a landmark pact signed between the two nations in September 2025. This treaty established a collective security framework, stipulating that any act of aggression against one signatory would be viewed as an attack on both.

During the meeting, Prince Khalid and Field Marshal Munir reviewed the recent security breaches, including successful Saudi interceptions of ballistic missiles and drones aimed at energy infrastructure and military sites, such as the Prince Sultan Air Base and the Shaybah oil field.

In a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Prince Khalid emphasized the need for collective measures to halt these provocations:

“We discussed Iranian attacks on the Kingdom and the measures needed to halt them within the framework of our Joint Strategic Defense Agreement. We stressed that such actions undermine regional security and stability.”

A Warning Against ‘Misguided Calculations’

The meeting served as a platform for Riyadh to issue a direct diplomatic warning to Tehran. Prince Khalid urged the Iranian leadership to prioritize “wisdom and reason” over military escalation. He cautioned that continuing on the current path of retaliatory strikes could lead to “misguided calculations” with devastating consequences for the entire West Asian region.

The warning comes at a critical time. Following recent joint strikes by the U.S. and Israel, Iran has launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and thousands of drones across the Gulf, impacting civilian sites, energy corridors, and U.S. military assets.

Pakistan’s Pivotal Role

For Pakistan, the meeting signals a potential shift from verbal solidarity to more concrete defense cooperation. While Islamabad has historically maintained a “balancing act” between its neighbor Iran and its strategic partner Saudi Arabia, the SMDA has significantly increased its formal obligations to Riyadh.

Field Marshal Asim Munir’s presence in Riyadh highlights the military-to-military depth of this relationship. As a nuclear-armed state, Pakistan’s involvement in the Saudi defense architecture—often referred to by analysts as a burgeoning “Islamic NATO”—is a major factor in the region’s deterrence calculus.

Regional Stability at a Crossroads

The ongoing conflict has already disrupted global energy markets and international travel, with thousands of flights canceled across the Gulf. As Saudi Arabia successfully neutralizes incoming threats using its advanced air defense systems, the collaboration with Pakistan aims to create a unified front to prevent the conflict from spiraling into a full-scale regional war.

Authorities in Riyadh confirmed that while multiple threats were neutralized this week—including drones targeting the U.S. Embassy and oil facilities—the hope remains for a diplomatic resolution. However, the message from the Khalid-Munir meeting is clear: the Saudi-Pakistani alliance is prepared to utilize the full scope of their defense pact to maintain the Kingdom’s sovereignty.

Char Dham Yatra 2026: Registrations Open Today

Rahul Kaushik
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Char Dham Yatra 2026: Registrations Open Today

New Delhi, March 7, 2026: The spiritual corridors of the Himalayas are set to welcome devotees once again as the Uttarakhand government officially opened registrations for the Char Dham Yatra 2026 today, March 6, 2026. This mandatory process is the first step for millions of pilgrims planning to visit the holy shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

With the pilgrimage scheduled to commence in late April, authorities have urged travelers to register early to secure their preferred dates and ensure a seamless journey.

Char Dham 2026: Temple Opening Dates

The Yatra traditionally begins on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya. This year, the shrines will open their portals in a phased manner:

Holy ShrineOpening Date (2026)Significance
YamunotriApril 19, 2026Opening on Akshaya Tritiya
GangotriApril 19, 2026Opening on Akshaya Tritiya
KedarnathApril 22, 2026Portals open at 8:00 AM
BadrinathApril 23, 2026Portals open at 6:15 AM

The pilgrimage follows a clockwise circuit (Parikrama), typically starting from Yamunotri and concluding at Badrinath.

How to Register for Char Dham Yatra 2026

Registration is mandatory for all domestic and international pilgrims. The Uttarakhand government provides four convenient modes for registration:

1. Online via Official Portal

The most efficient way is through the official website:

  • Website: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
  • Process: Click on ‘Register/Login’, create an account using your mobile number, and fill in the details of the pilgrims and the tour plan.

2. Mobile Application

Download the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” app (available on Google Play Store and iOS App Store). This allows you to manage your Yatra pass and receive real-time weather alerts.

3. WhatsApp Registration

For a quick, text-based registration, pilgrims can send the message “Yatra” to the official WhatsApp number: +91 8394833833. Follow the automated prompts to complete the process.

4. Offline Registration

For those unable to register digitally, physical counters will open on April 17, 2026 (two days before the Yatra starts) at:

  • Haridwar (Rahi Hotel)
  • Rishikesh (ISBT and Transit Camp)
  • Dehradun, Sonprayag, and Joshimath.

Essential Travel Details & Guidelines

To ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey, pilgrims should keep the following points in mind:

  • Documents Required: You will need a valid Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License) and a recent passport-sized photograph.
  • No Registration Fee: The government registration process is completely free of cost. Beware of unauthorized agents asking for “registration fees.”
  • Health Declaration: Due to the high-altitude nature of the shrines (exceeding 10,000 feet), a health self-declaration is part of the registration. Senior citizens are advised to undergo a medical check-up before travel.
  • Daily Caps: The government may implement daily visitor limits for each shrine to manage crowds and ensure the fragile Himalayan ecosystem is protected.
  • Helicopter Services: Booking for Kedarnath helicopter services must be done only through the official IRCTC HeliYatra portal.

Safety First: Monitoring & Assistance

The state government has deployed a GPS-based monitoring system to track the movement of registered pilgrims, ensuring help is available during emergencies. A 24/7 toll-free helpline (0135-1364) is also active for any assistance regarding registration or travel updates.

As the portals open, pilgrims are reminded to carry warm clothing, necessary medications, and a printed or digital copy of their Yatra Registration Letter (QR Code), which will be verified at various checkpoints.

Gold and Silver Rates Today: Bullion Prices Surge Amid Escalating Middle East Crisis

Rahul Kaushik
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Gold and Silver Rates Today: Bullion Prices Surge Amid Escalating Middle East Crisis

March 7, 2026 — Global bullion markets have witnessed a significant jump today as escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East drive investors toward the safety of precious metals. With the conflict involving major regional players intensifying, spot gold and silver have both seen sharp rallies, reflecting a classic “flight to safety” in the financial world.

In India, domestic rates remain near historic highs, though they have seen slight fluctuations compared to the peak reached earlier this month. The combination of international price surges and local demand factors continues to keep the bullion market volatile.

Gold Rates in India Today (March 7, 2026)

Gold prices in India have reacted to the global spike, with 24k gold currently trading around ₹1,61,550 per 10 grams in major metropolitan areas. While this is a slight consolidation from the record highs of ₹1.73 lakh seen on March 1, the underlying sentiment remains bullish due to the geopolitical backdrop.

Purity-wise Gold Prices (per 10 grams):

PurityPrice Today (Approx.)Trend
24K Gold (99.9% Pure)₹1,61,550 – ₹1,63,640▲ Rising
22K Gold (Jewellery)₹1,47,980 – ₹1,50,000▲ Rising
18K Gold (75.0% Pure)₹1,21,160 – ₹1,22,730▲ Rising

Silver Prices Today

Silver has outperformed gold in terms of percentage gains today, rebounding sharply in the international market to trade near $84.70 per ounce. In India, silver prices have stabilized but remain elevated, with the retail rate hovering around ₹2,84,900 to ₹3,01,900 per kilogram, depending on the city and local taxes.

  • Silver Price per kg: ₹2,84,900 (Avg.)
  • Silver Price per 100g: ₹28,490
  • Silver Price per 10g: ₹2,849

City-Wise Bullion Rates

Prices often vary across Indian cities due to transportation costs, local demand, and state-level taxes.

City24K Gold (10g)Silver (1kg)
Delhi₹1,61,548₹3,01,900
Mumbai₹1,61,710₹3,00,900
Chennai₹1,63,002₹3,03,900
Bangalore₹1,61,548₹2,95,900
Kolkata₹1,62,840₹2,96,900

Why are Bullion Prices Jumping?

The primary catalyst for the current surge is the Middle East crisis. Recent military escalations involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran have created a high-risk environment. Gold and silver are traditionally viewed as “safe-haven” assets—investments that retain or increase in value during times of war, political instability, or economic turmoil.

  1. Geopolitical Risk: Attacks on key energy infrastructure and high-ranking officials have stoked fears of a prolonged regional war.
  2. Safe-Haven Demand: As global equities and riskier assets face selling pressure, institutional and retail investors are moving capital into gold and silver.
  3. Inflation & Oil: Surging crude oil prices (approaching $90–$100 per barrel) are fueling inflation concerns. Precious metals are often used as a hedge against rising costs.
  4. Central Bank Buying: Reports indicate that several central banks, including those in emerging markets, continue to accumulate gold reserves to diversify away from the U.S. dollar.

Market Outlook

Analysts suggest that as long as the diplomatic situation in the Middle East remains unresolved, gold could test its previous all-time highs of $5,600 per ounce globally. For Indian buyers, the movement of the Rupee against the Dollar and the 15% import duty will also play a crucial role in determining the final retail price during the upcoming festival and wedding season.

Mandana Karimi Bids Farewell to India: “I Am Upset at How Things Have Changed”

Rashika Sharma
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Mandana Karimi Bids Farewell to India: “I Am Upset at How Things Have Changed”

New Delhi, March 7, 2026: The Indian entertainment industry has been left buzzing following the sudden departure of actress and model Mandana Karimi. Known for her stint on Bigg Boss 9 and her candid personality in the reality show Lock Upp, Karimi has officially decided to move back to her home country, Iran, citing deep-seated frustration with the shifting cultural and professional landscape in India.

After over a decade of building a career in Mumbai, the actress shared an emotional and raw explanation for her exit, sparking a wider conversation about the experiences of foreign artists in the Indian film industry.

A Shift in Atmosphere

In a recent series of statements, Mandana expressed a profound sense of disillusionment. While she initially found India to be a land of immense opportunity and warmth, she revealed that the environment has become increasingly difficult to navigate.

“I am upset at how things have changed,” Karimi stated. “The industry I entered years ago is not the same one I am leaving. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the respect, the safety, and the way people treat you when you are an outsider.”

She highlighted a growing “toxic” culture within the workspace, where she felt she had to constantly fight for her basic rights and dignity. According to Karimi, the professional ethics she once admired have been replaced by a system that often overlooks talent in favor of internal politics.

The “Outsider” Struggle

Karimi’s departure brings the “insider vs. outsider” debate back into the spotlight. Despite her popularity and several high-profile projects, she felt that foreign artists are often marginalized or treated as disposable.

  • Professional Roadblocks: Mandana spoke about the difficulty of securing consistent work without compromising her values.
  • Cultural Shifts: She noted a change in the social fabric of the city she once called home, feeling a lack of the “belonging” she had felt in her earlier years.
  • The Breaking Point: While she didn’t point to a single event, she implied that a culmination of “disrespectful experiences” led to her final decision to pack her bags.

What’s Next for Mandana?

Returning to Iran marks a significant turning point for the actress. While her fans in India are saddened by the news, Mandana seems resolute in her choice to prioritize her mental peace over her Bollywood ambitions.

She has expressed a desire to reconnect with her roots and family, seeking a lifestyle that offers more stability and genuine connection. Her exit serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by those who come to the “City of Dreams” from afar, only to find the reality much harsher than the silver screen suggests.

The Industry Reacts

While many colleagues have remained silent, Karimi’s vocal exit has prompted fans on social media to question whether the industry is doing enough to protect and retain international talent. As the dust settles on her departure, it remains to be seen if her “breaking the silence” will lead to any systemic changes in how foreign actors are integrated into the Indian media landscape.

Ranveer Singh Rules Lyari: ‘Dhurandhar 2’ Trailer Out

Rashika Sharma
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Ranveer Singh Rules Lyari: ‘Dhurandhar 2’ Trailer Out

New Delhi, March 7, 2026: The wait is finally over for fans of the burgeoning Aditya Dhar spy universe. The official trailer for ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ (popularly known as Dhurandhar 2) dropped today, March 7, 2026, and it promises an even darker, bloodier, and more visceral experience than its predecessor. Reprising his role as the enigmatic undercover operative, Ranveer Singh takes center stage in a trailer that is already being hailed as a masterclass in tension and action.

From Shadowy Operative to ‘Lyari Ka Badshah’

The trailer, clocking in at 3 minutes and 25 seconds, picks up exactly where the first film left off. Following the assassination of the ruthless gangster Rehman Dakait (played by Akshaye Khanna), Karachi’s Lyari district has spiraled into a chaotic power vacuum.

In a startling transformation, Ranveer Singh’s character—known to the underworld as Hamza Ali Mazari—rises through the ranks of the criminal syndicate. However, the trailer finally pulls back the curtain on his true identity: Jaskirat Singh Rangi, an Indian intelligence asset on a mission that has gone deep into the heart of darkness.

One of the most talked-about moments from the trailer is Ranveer’s clean-shaven, intense new look, signaling a shift from the rugged infiltration of the first film to a more calculated, cold-blooded strategist. The footage showcases Singh delivering a chilling declaration that sets the tone for the sequel:

“Ab Pakistan ka mustakbil, Hindustan tey karega.” (Now, India will decide the future of Pakistan.)

A Star-Studded Ensemble and High-Stakes Warfare

Director Aditya Dhar has assembled a powerhouse cast to support Singh’s explosive performance:

  • Sanjay Dutt returns as the no-nonsense SP Chaudhary Aslam, bringing his signature swagger and grit.
  • R. Madhavan reprises his role as Ajay Sanyal, the intellectual “charioteer” behind the mission.
  • Arjun Rampal appears as Major Iqbal, who seems to be the primary antagonist and a personal target for Jaskirat.
  • Akshaye Khanna is seen in pivotal flashback sequences, reminding audiences of the “Apex Predator” whose death ignited this war.

The action choreography appears to have been scaled up significantly, featuring urban warfare, high-speed chases, and tactical shootouts set to a high-energy remixed version of Bombay Rockers’ ‘Ari Ari’.

Box Office Expectations and Festive Release

With the first Dhurandhar grossing over ₹1,300 crore worldwide, expectations for the sequel are sky-high. Trade analysts are already predicting a record-breaking opening, with some estimates suggesting a domestic opening weekend in the range of ₹350–400 crore.

The film has also secured a strategic solo release window. Initially set to clash with Yash’s Toxic, the latter was postponed due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, leaving the field open for Dhurandhar 2 to dominate the Eid, Gudi Padwa, and Ugadi festive weekend.

Key Details at a Glance

Produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, Dhurandhar: The Revenge is more than just a sequel; it is a cinematic spectacle that looks to redefine the Indian spy genre with its blend of raw emotion and geopolitical intrigue.

T20 World Cup 2026 Final: India vs New Zealand Venue, Ticket Guide & Prices

GrowJust Desk
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T20 World Cup 2026 Final: India vs New Zealand Venue, Ticket Guide & Prices

New Delhi, March 7, 2026: The stage is set for a historic showdown as India prepares to take on New Zealand in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. After a month of high-octane cricketing action across India and Sri Lanka, the two giants of the format will clash at the world’s largest cricket stadium to crown the new T20 world champions.

Match Details: Date and Venue

The grand finale is scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2026. The match will be held at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. With a seating capacity of over 130,000, the atmosphere is expected to be electric as India looks to defend their title on home soil.

  • Date: March 8, 2026 (Sunday)
  • Time: 7:00 PM IST (Local Time)
  • Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
  • Reserve Day: Monday, March 9 (In case of rain)

Ticket Booking Process: How to Buy

Tickets for the final are in extremely high demand, with millions of fans vying for a seat. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has streamlined the process through its official partners.

Where to Book

  1. Official Website: tickets.t20worldcup.com
  2. Official Partner: BookMyShow (Website and App)

Steps to Secure Your Seat

  • Step 1: Visit the official ICC ticketing portal or the BookMyShow app.
  • Step 2: Search for “ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Final.”
  • Step 3: Select your preferred seating category (Standard, Premium, or Hospitality).
  • Step 4: Follow the stadium layout to pick your block and seat number.
  • Step 5: Complete the payment via UPI, Credit/Debit cards, or Net Banking.

Ticket Prices

To ensure the tournament remained accessible, the ICC introduced various pricing tiers. For the final, prices have naturally seen a surge due to the magnitude of the India vs New Zealand clash.

CategoryEstimated Price Range
Standard (General Stands)₹2,000 – ₹5,000
Premium (Mid-tier/Club Level)₹15,000 – ₹25,000
Hospitality (VIP Boxes)₹40,000+

Prices are subject to availability and official partner updates.

Match Day Expectations

India enters the final as the favorite after a narrow 7-run victory over England in the semi-finals at the Wankhede Stadium. New Zealand, on the other hand, displayed tactical brilliance by defeating South Africa by 9 wickets to secure their spot.

Key Highlights for Fans:

  • Special Transport: The Ahmedabad Metro will operate special services until 12:30 AM on the night of the final to assist fans in reaching home safely.
  • Entry Requirements: Fans must carry a digital or physical copy of their ticket and a valid government-issued ID.
  • Gates Open: Gates are expected to open at 4:30 PM, three hours before the first ball.

As the “Men in Blue” look to recreate the magic of their past T20 triumphs, the Narendra Modi Stadium is ready to witness a night of cricketing history.

Tehran’ Mehrabad Airport Ablaze Following Fresh Wave of Israeli Airstrikes

Rahul Kaushik
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Tehran’ Mehrabad Airport Ablaze Following Fresh Wave of Israeli Airstrikes

New Delhi, March 7, 2026 — A massive fire erupted at Tehran’s Mehrabad International Airport in the early hours of Saturday, March 7, 2026, after the Israeli military announced a “broad-scale” wave of fresh strikes targeting the Iranian capital.

Social media was quickly flooded with geolocated footage showing large plumes of thick black smoke and intense orange flames rising from the airport complex, which serves as a primary aviation hub for domestic and regional travel.

Escalation in the Skies over Tehran

The strikes hit Mehrabad shortly after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed they were carrying out extensive operations against regime infrastructure in Tehran. According to local reports and eyewitness accounts, several powerful explosions rocked the western part of the city, with shockwaves rattling buildings in the vicinity.

While official casualty figures have not yet been released, unconfirmed reports from social media and local residents suggest the fire may have originated near fuel storage tanks within the airport grounds. Some footage appeared to show at least one aircraft positioned on the tarmac caught in the blaze, though Iranian state media has only confirmed that the “outskirts” of the airport were hit.

A Region on the Brink

This latest bombardment is part of a rapidly escalating conflict that began in late February 2026. The situation has grown increasingly volatile following:

  • Targeted Infrastructure: Ongoing strikes by the US and Israel aimed at degrading Iran’s air defense systems, IRGC headquarters, and missile launch sites.
  • Retaliatory Salvos: In response to the Saturday morning strikes, Iran launched retaliatory fire toward Tel Aviv. Israeli air defense systems were seen intercepting incoming projectiles over the city’s skyline.
  • Regional Impact: Saudi Arabian air defenses also reported neutralizing 16 drones and several missiles targeting the strategic Shaybah oil field and Prince Sultan Air Base earlier today.

Global Economic and Diplomatic Fallout

The intensification of the war has sent shockwaves through global markets. Brent crude oil prices have surged toward $93 per barrel, a nearly 30% increase within a single week, as fears grow over the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

International leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, have issued urgent pleas for a ceasefire, warning that the situation is “spiraling beyond anyone’s control.” Meanwhile, the White House has maintained a firm stance, stating that the operations will continue until the threat posed by the current regime is neutralized.

As of Saturday afternoon, fire crews at Mehrabad Airport are still battling the remains of the blaze. Aviation authorities have not yet announced when flight operations—already severely restricted due to the conflict—might resume.

High Court Acquits Dera Chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim in 2002 Journalist Murder Case

Rahul Kaushik
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High Court Acquits Dera Chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim in 2002 Journalist Murder Case

New Delhi, March 7, 2026 – In a significant legal development on March 7, 2026, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has acquitted Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in the high-profile 2002 murder case of Sirsa-based journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati.The division bench, comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Vikram Aggarwal, set aside the 2019 conviction by a special CBI court that had sentenced the Dera chief to life imprisonment. While the court cleared Ram Rahim of the charges, it notably upheld the conviction and sentences of the other three co-accused in the case: Kuldeep Singh, Nirmal Singh, and Krishan Lal.

Background: The 2002 Murder of Ram Chander Chhatrapati

The case dates back to October 24, 2002, when Ram Chander Chhatrapati, the editor of the local evening daily Poora Sach, was shot at point-blank range outside his residence in Sirsa. He succumbed to his injuries four weeks later on November 21.

The motive behind the killing was allegedly linked to Chhatrapati’s journalistic work. His newspaper was the first to publish an anonymous letter from a female follower (sadhvi) detailing systematic sexual exploitation at the Dera Sacha Sauda headquarters. This letter eventually triggered the CBI investigation that led to Ram Rahim’s rape conviction in 2017.

The Legal Journey to Acquittal

In January 2019, a special CBI court in Panchkula found Ram Rahim and three others guilty of conspiracy and murder, sentencing them to life in prison. The Dera chief challenged this verdict in the High Court, arguing:

  • Lack of Evidence: His legal team contended that he was not named in the initial police charge sheet in 2002.
  • Questionable Witnesses: The defense argued that the testimony of key witnesses, including former Dera driver Khatta Singh, was unreliable and motivated by pressure from investigating agencies.
  • Motive Disputed: Lawyers argued the prosecution failed to prove that Ram Rahim had even read the reports in Poora Sach or held a specific grudge against the journalist.

While the detailed written judgment is still awaited, the High Court’s decision to acquit indicates that the prosecution failed to establish Ram Rahim’s direct involvement in the conspiracy beyond a reasonable doubt.

Impact on Ram Rahim’s Incarceration

Despite this acquittal, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh will remain behind bars at Sunaria Jail in Rohtak. He is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence (awarded in 2017) for the rape of two disciples.

This is the second major acquittal for the Dera chief in recent years; in May 2024, the High Court similarly acquitted him in the 2002 murder case of former Dera manager Ranjit Singh.

Reactions to the Verdict

The verdict has drawn a sharp response from the victim’s family. Anshul Chhatrapati, the son of the slain journalist who has led the legal battle for over two decades, termed the acquittal a “major setback.”

“The fight was against the mastermind. The shooters had no personal enmity with my father; they acted on orders. If the main culprit is acquitted, it is a dark day for justice. We will move the Supreme Court to challenge this verdict,” Anshul stated.

The Haryana government and the CBI have yet to issue a formal statement regarding a potential appeal in the apex court.

Karan Aujla Clears Mumbai Auto Driver’s ₹22,000 Debt

Rahul Kaushik
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Karan Aujla Clears Mumbai Auto Driver’s ₹22,000 Debt

New Delhi, March 7, 2026: In a world of high-octane performances and celebrity glitz, Punjabi superstar Karan Aujla recently proved that he has a “heart of gold” to match his global fame. A heartwarming video featuring the singer-rapper has taken the internet by storm, capturing an unplanned act of kindness on the streets of Mumbai.

While in the city for the Mumbai leg of his highly anticipated P-Pop Culture India Tour, Aujla swapped his luxury lifestyle for a humble commute, deciding to take an auto-rickshaw ride. However, what started as a casual trip quickly turned into a viral sensation.

The Impromptu Act of Generosity

The incident unfolded when the auto-rickshaw carrying Aujla was flagged down by the Mumbai traffic police for a routine check. During the encounter, it was revealed that the driver had several pending traffic fines (challans) totaling ₹17,000.

Realizing the financial burden this placed on the driver, Aujla did not hesitate. He immediately instructed his team to clear the entire outstanding debt on the spot.

The generosity didn’t stop there. Seeing the singer’s kindness, a second auto-driver nearby approached Aujla, explaining that he too was struggling with pending fines. Maintaining his streak of goodwill, Aujla agreed to help him as well, paying off an additional ₹5,000 for the second driver. In total, the singer cleared ₹22,000 in traffic penalties for the local drivers.

“Suddenly, I’m the City’s Favourite”

In the viral video, which was shared by British-Sikh filmmaker Sanvir Singh and Aujla’s photographer Taran Sodhi, the “Tauba Tauba” hitmaker can be seen interacting warmly with the drivers and the police.

“We got pulled over because the auto driver had some pending fines, and we told the policeman that we’d pay his fines. I love doing this,” Aujla remarked in the clip.

True to his witty personality, he also shared a lighthearted warning with the overjoyed drivers:

“Koi aur pay nahi karega (No one else will pay). Suddenly I am the city’s favourite!”

The emotional weight of the moment was evident as one of the drivers, visibly moved by the gesture, embraced the singer in gratitude.

Fans React: “A Man of the People”

The footage has triggered a massive wave of appreciation across social media platforms. Fans and netizens have lauded Aujla for staying grounded despite his meteoric rise to fame.

  • “Man with a golden heart,” wrote one fan on Instagram.
  • “This is the best kind of flex,” another user commented, highlighting that while ₹22,000 might be a small sum for a superstar, it represents months of hard work for an auto-driver.
  • “We have made a real diamond famous,“ echoed another supporter.

P-Pop Culture Tour Continues

Karan Aujla’s tour, which kicked off with a massive show for over 70,000 fans in Delhi on February 28, continues to be the talk of the town. Following his Mumbai and Pune stops, the singer is scheduled to perform in several other cities:

DateCity
March 7Ahmedabad
March 14Chandigarh
March 21Indore
March 29Bengaluru

As Aujla prepares to take the stage in Ahmedabad next, this gesture has certainly solidified his status not just as a musical powerhouse, but as a beloved public figure with a deep connection to his fans.

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