Nivedita

The Shimla Municipal Commissioner’s court has ordered the removal of three unauthorised floors from the mosque in Sanjauli, Himachal Pradesh, allowing the Waqf Board two months to comply. The order affects the second, third, and fourth floors, with a follow-up hearing set for December 21. BS Thakur, representing the Waqf Board, stated that both the mosque committee and the board must bear the costs of demolition. Latif Negi, chairman of the mosque committee, affirmed their respect for the court's decision and commitment to removing the unauthorised floors without contesting the ruling.

During a rally in Washim district, Maharashtra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a fierce attack on the Congress party, accusing it of perpetuating caste divides and urging the public to stay united against its divisive agenda. "If we unite, their agenda to fracture the nation will collapse," he asserted. Modi criticized Congress for exploiting the poor for political gain, labeling it as a “gang of urban Naxals.”He inaugurated various projects worth over ₹32,800 crores in Thane, including the Mumbai Metro Line - 3. Modi also condemned Congress for its alleged corruption and political inconsistencies, citing recent scandals involving its leaders. Emphasizing the goal of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India), he called for collective effort to make cities like Mumbai and Thane future-ready.

Farooq Abdullah, president of the National Conference, expressed optimism about the potential for discussions on India-Pakistan relations during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's upcoming visit to Islamabad. He emphasized the importance of addressing bilateral issues, particularly economic concerns. Abdullah stated, “I hope there will be talks on every issue,” and wished for a friendly dialogue to foster better understanding between the two nations. However, Jaishankar has made it clear that India-Pakistan relations will not be on the agenda during his visit for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's conclave on October 15-16. This visit marks the first high-level ministerial engagement from India to Pakistan in eight years.

The Haryana Assembly elections have concluded, featuring major parties such as the BJP, Congress, INLD-BSP alliance, JJP-Azad Samaj Party alliance, and the Aam Aadmi Party. Key candidates include Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini (BJP), Bhupinder Singh Hooda (Congress), and Abhay Singh Chautala (INLD). A total of 1,031 candidates, including 101 women and 464 independents, contested the elections. Voting ended at 6 PM, with counting set for October 8. The BJP seeks a third consecutive term, while the Congress aims to regain power, promoting a manifesto that promises seven key guarantees, including a monthly allowance of ₹2,000 for women.

The third phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections recorded a voter turnout of 69.69%, with women outpacing men in participation. The Election Commission noted that overall turnout at polling stations was 63.88%, up from 58.58% during the Lok Sabha elections. Male voter turnout was 69.37%, while female turnout reached 70.02%. Additionally, nearly 44% of voters from the third gender category participated. Final vote counts, including postal ballots, will be available after the counting process.