Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who spearheaded the separatist movement in Jammu and Kashmir for over three decades, died at his residence in Srinagar. He was 91 years old.
The separatist leader had been suffering from some disease for over two decades, besides having other age-related issues. Due to ill health, he had kept a low profile for the last few years.
Mobile internet was being shut down in Kashmir valley as a precautionary measure to prevent confusion due to spread of rumours.
The Central Bureau of Investigation Director has received a one-year extension, continuing in the role until May next year. The decision was made by a high-power committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Chief Justice of India, and the Leader of Opposition.
In this episode of Newstrack, watch the exclusive interview of Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Lahiri as he decodes PM Modi's austerity push amid the escalating crisis in West Asia.
The central government has implemented austerity measures, including reducing ministerial convoys to two vehicles, in response to a looming fuel crisis driven by West Asian geopolitical tensions. While the ruling party frames this as a necessary fiscal step, opposition leaders have labeled the move tokenism, demanding a special parliamentary session to address the economic situation and rising oil prices. Simultaneously, the national currency has depreciated to an all-time low against the dollar, prompting calls from experts for fiscal consolidation and reduced political populism. Amidst these economic challenges, a major controversy has emerged regarding the national medical entrance examination. Investigations into an alleged paper leak and an interstate exam mafia have resulted in multiple arrests across several states, revealing potential political links. Education experts are now advocating for a complete overhaul of the testing system, suggesting decentralized, computer-based examinations to ensure future transparency. Transparency activists further urge the government to disclose fuel stock data to prevent public panic and hoarding during this period of economic instability.
Days after he appealed for cutting down fuel consumption, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reduced his convoy size. This was followed by several BJP chief ministers and other leaders to adopt similar measures.
