Category Archives: government

Delhi HC Quashes NHAI Notification On Recruiting Lawyers Based On CLAT-PG Scores

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Wednesday set aside a notification issued by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) that made scores of the Common Law Admission Test for Post-Graduate courses (CLAT-PG) the basis for the recruitment of lawyers.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela allowed a petition challenging the NHAI’s August 11 notification. “The writ petition is allowed. Resultantly, the recruitment criteria given in the notification is quashed,” the bench stated while pronouncing its judgment. The detailed judgment is awaited.

The court’s verdict followed a plea contesting the NHAI notification which mandated the use of CLAT-PG scores for legal recruitment. On September 18, the court had stayed the notification, observing that there appeared to be “no rationale” behind the recruitment process based on CLAT-PG scores.

The petition was filed by Shannu Bahgel, a lawyer, who argued that CLAT-PG scores cannot legally form the basis for public employment. Bahgel contended that the CLAT-PG exam is designed solely to assess the merit of LLB degree holders seeking admission to master’s degree programs in law, not for selection in government jobs.

He further submitted that the purpose of recruitment under the August 11 notification was to engage legal professionals to provide services, not for candidates to pursue higher studies. “There does not appear to be any reasonable or rational nexus between the objects sought to be achieved and the basis of preparation of merit for such selection,” the petition stated.

The bench had earlier observed that the rationale behind the CLAT-PG exam was to measure merit for higher education and not for public employment purposes.

In response, the NHAI’s counsel defended the notification, stating that the authority sought to test a candidate’s legal acumen through CLAT-PG scores. The counsel argued that CLAT scores provided a reasonable benchmark for assessing candidates. He also emphasized that while the selection was primarily based on CLAT results, candidates’ experience was also taken into consideration.

The petitioner challenged the NHAI’s directive to engage 44 young professionals solely on the basis of scores obtained in CLAT 2022 and subsequent editions of the postgraduate law admissions test. He argued that restricting recruitment to candidates who appeared for CLAT-PG from 2022 onwards was arbitrary and unreasonable.

“The recruitment is restricted only to candidates who appeared in CLAT 2022 and onward PG, ignoring all other law graduates and practising advocates who are otherwise fully qualified. The criteria of restricting selection exclusively on the basis of CLAT 2022 onward (post-graduate) score is arbitrary, irrational,” the plea stated.

(Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/delhi-hc-quashes-nhai-notification-on-recruiting-lawyers-based-on-clat-pg-scores

3 Singaporeans under probe in cross-border baby-trafficking case; ICA reviews lapses after woman overstayed 28 years undetected: Singapore live news

A transnational baby-trafficking ring has drawn Singapore into the spotlight, with three Singapore citizens currently under investigation by Indonesian authorities. The Indonesian National Police allege that 15 babies were sent to Singapore under falsified adoption papers, with each infant fetching around $20,000.

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has pledged full cooperation, including questioning witnesses and tracing suspects through Interpol. So far, 22 people have been charged in Indonesia, with operations linked to West Java, Jakarta, and Pontianak. The syndicate allegedly profited by covering delivery and care costs before pocketing the remaining funds.

This case has sparked widespread outrage, with child protection groups calling it one of the most serious trafficking scandals in the region.

In a separate development, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is reviewing its processes after a woman overstayed in Singapore for more than 28 years without detection. Yu Zefang, 60, was sentenced on 1 September to six months’ jail and fined $2,000, according to local media reports.

Yu had surrendered in December 2024, expressing her wish to return to China. She entered Singapore in 1995 on a student pass but absconded in 1996 after her special pass expired. She remained in the country to care for her daughter, who later became a permanent resident.

Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam told Parliament that Yu avoided detection by living off the grid—with no fixed address, no formal employment, and no use of public services. This case, believed to be the longest overstay in Singapore’s history, has raised questions about systemic gaps in immigration monitoring.

Meanwhile, a government scheme designed to support jobless Singaporeans has come under scrutiny after most applicants were rejected. The SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme, launched in April, has received 7,200 applications, but 60 percent were rejected, mainly because applicants did not meet criteria such as involuntary unemployment or the $5,000 income cap.

During Parliamentary sessions, MPs questioned whether the scheme adequately supports freelancers, contract workers, and those who left jobs under complex circumstances.

Senior Minister of State Koh Poh Koon responded that the scheme is regularly reviewed and allows for appeals, but its focus must remain on individuals facing sudden financial shocks.

The Ministry of Manpower and Workforce Singapore are proactively engaging with employers and the labour movement to increase awareness of the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme. Efforts include verifying unemployment claims directly with former employers and encouraging companies undergoing retrenchments to assist their employees in applying for support.

Read more about the questions raised in Parliament regarding the fairness of the Jobseeker Support Scheme here.

Singapore’s fresh graduates are entering an increasingly crowded job market, with 2,400 more graduates competing for roles this year. The result is sharper competition and rising anxiety among new entrants.

Even as employment rates improve to 52 percent, 1,700 more graduates remain unemployed compared to 2024. These numbers highlight a growing comfort gap in graduate employment.

To address this, the government has launched GRIT and GRIT@Gov, offering 800 traineeships lasting three to six months. These programmes include allowances co-funded by the state. Officials say these schemes are a preemptive effort to reassure graduates and help them gain industry experience while waiting for permanent roles.

Additionally, structured pathways for skilled trades are being developed to broaden career options beyond traditional graduate jobs.

Stay tuned for more updates on these evolving stories.
https://sg.news.yahoo.com/live/3-singaporeans-under-probe-in-cross-border-baby-trafficking-case-ica-reviews-lapses-after-woman-overstayed-28-years-undetected-singapore-live-news-013113627.html

Ghatkopar Hoarding Collapse Tragedy: State Cabinet Accepts Justice Bhosale Committee Report, Orders Action Against Officials

**Mumbai: State Cabinet Accepts Justice Dilip Bhosale Committee Report on Ghatkopar Hoarding Collapse**

The Maharashtra state cabinet on Tuesday accepted the report submitted by the Justice Dilip Bhosale committee, which was constituted to investigate the illegal hoarding collapse incident that occurred in Ghatkopar in May last year. The tragic accident claimed 17 lives and left 74 others injured.

### Recommendations Against Officials

The committee’s report recommended action against state officials responsible for permitting the illegal hoarding. In response, the state government’s Action Taken Report (ATR) stated that departmental enquiries (DE) are currently underway against former Government Railway Police (GRP) commissioners Quaisar Khalid and Dr. Ravindra Shisve.

### Formation of the Committee and Action Taken Report

The Ghatkopar tragedy prompted the state government to set up the Justice Bhosale committee, comprising key members including the Director General of Police, Additional Commissioner of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), a structural engineer from IIT Bombay, an Income Tax officer, and a chartered accountant.

The committee submitted its report to the government in May, which was then forwarded to the home department for further action. Subsequently, another committee led by the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the home department was formed to examine the report and prepare the ATR.

The ACS committee recommended 21 guiding principles, including establishing a nodal mechanism to take action against unauthorized hoardings. It was emphasized that municipal bodies possess full authority to enforce these measures.

### Guidelines for Hoardings

The report includes detailed recommendations aimed at improving safety and regulatory compliance related to hoardings. Key guidelines suggest that hoardings should not be installed on terraces or compound walls.

Additional considerations cover location-specific hazards, traffic safety, pedestrian convenience—particularly for persons with disabilities—design standards, and environmental impact.

Directions are being issued to the BMC and other civic authorities across Maharashtra to implement these recommendations and action points in the ATR.

### Action Against GRP Officials

The committee recommended disciplinary action against senior railway officers who headed the GRP at the time of the incident.

According to sources, the home department’s ATR confirms that departmental enquiries are underway against both officers, with Quaisar Khalid currently placed under suspension.

### New Regulations on Hoarding Size and Removal

The ATR also introduces strict regulations on hoarding dimensions moving forward. No hoarding exceeding 40 feet by 40 feet will be allowed, with height restrictions set between a minimum of 11 feet and a maximum of 60 feet.

Furthermore, all illegal hoardings across the state will be removed immediately by the relevant civic or local authorities.

To streamline the licensing and permission process, civic authorities will establish an independent agency, with the civic body chief serving as the final authority on approvals.

The ATR also states that civic bodies will initiate action against illegal hoardings and, if necessary, collaborate with police forces to ensure enforcement.

### Committee’s Mandate

The Justice Bhosale committee was specifically tasked with investigating the roles of those responsible for erecting the ill-fated hoarding and the adjacent petrol pump in Ghatkopar.

Its objective was to scrutinize the conduct of GRP officials involved and provide recommendations to prevent any such incidents in the future.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/ghatkopar-hoarding-collapse-tragedy-state-cabinet-accepts-justice-bhosale-committee-report-orders-action-against-officials

Maharashtra News: ‘Independent NCC Academy To Be Established In State,’ Says Sports Minister Manikrao Kokate

**Maharashtra to Establish Independent NCC Academy in Mumbai Metropolitan Region**

*Mumbai:* Maharashtra is set to have an independent National Cadet Corps (NCC) Academy aimed at providing advanced training facilities for cadets, announced State Sports Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate. The minister has directed officials of the Sports Department to identify suitable land within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) for setting up this new academy.

**Review Meeting Held at Mantralaya**

A review meeting focused on pending NCC matters was held today at Mantralaya. The meeting was attended by key officials including Additional Chief Secretary Anil Diggikar, Additional Director General Major General Vivek Tyagi, Deputy Secretary Sunil Pandhare, and Director of Naval NCC, Captain Jenish George, among others.

During the meeting, Major General Tyagi presented Minister Kokate with a model of an Indian Navy warship, skillfully crafted by NCC cadets, symbolizing the cadets’ dedication and creativity.

**NCC’s Role in Career Building**

Highlighting the significant contribution of the NCC, Minister Kokate said cadets from Maharashtra have been excelling at the national level across schools, camps, sports, and various other activities. He emphasized that the NCC ‘C Certificate’ has gained immense value not only in the Armed Forces and Police but also within the corporate sector, thereby opening excellent career opportunities for cadets.

Acknowledging the growing importance of NCC, Kokate instructed officials to increase the number of NCC training centers in colleges across the state. He also emphasized ensuring adequate manpower support to effectively carry out NCC-related activities.

*Also Watch: NCC’s Role In Career Building*

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-news-independent-ncc-academy-to-be-established-in-state-says-sports-minister-manikrao-kokate

How to apply for a driving license

**How to Apply for a Driving License**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 23, 2025, 05:37 pm*

Applying for a driving license can be an intimidating task, especially if you’re a first-timer. However, with the right approach and preparation, the process can be much simpler than you might expect. Here are five practical tips to help you navigate the application process smoothly and make your journey toward obtaining a driving license more manageable and less stressful.

### 1. Understand the Requirements

Before beginning your application, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements in your region. Each area has its own age limits, identification documents, and proof of residency standards. By familiarizing yourself with these details ahead of time, you can prepare all the necessary paperwork in advance and avoid any delays during your application process.

### 2. Gather Necessary Documents

Collecting all required documents is a crucial step for a successful application. Typically, you will need proof of identification, address proof, and if you’re underage, a signed parental consent form. Keep these documents organized and ready to present when needed. Being prepared will help you avoid last-minute surprises or missing paperwork.

### 3. Practice for Written Tests

Most regions require applicants to pass a written test on traffic rules and regulations before issuing a driving license. To prepare, study the driver’s handbook provided by your local authorities. Additionally, taking online practice tests can familiarize you with the test format and boost your confidence.

### 4. Schedule Driving Lessons Early

Booking driving lessons early is key to obtaining your license without unnecessary delays. Lessons with a certified instructor provide practical skills and knowledge of local driving laws. They also prepare you for the mandatory road test. Starting lessons early ensures that you are well-prepared and confident when the time for the test arrives.

### 5. Book Your Tests in Advance

Scheduling your road test well in advance is important to secure your preferred date and time. Due to high demand, appointment slots often fill up quickly. By booking early, you can plan your practical lessons accordingly and avoid delays in obtaining your driving license. This proactive approach helps ensure a smoother transition from learning to passing the test.

By following these tips, you can reduce stress and increase your chances of a successful application. Remember, preparation and early action are your best tools for a smooth and efficient process. Good luck on your journey to getting a driving license!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/driving-license-application-made-easy-5-tips/story

Pimpri-Chinchwad: PCMC Approves Four-Wheeler Driving Training Programme For Transgender Community

**Pimpri-Chinchwad: PCMC Launches Four-Wheeler Driving Training Program for Transgender Community**

The Standing Committee of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has approved a new initiative aimed at empowering the transgender community. The committee greenlit a four-wheeler driving training program specially designed for transgender members, officials announced on Tuesday.

Led by PCMC’s Social Development Department, this program seeks to create new employment opportunities and promote inclusivity within the community.

### Meeting Highlights

The approval came during a meeting held at the Late Mayor Madhukar Pawale Hall in PCMC’s main administrative building. The session was chaired by PCMC Commissioner and Administrator Shekhar Singh. Alongside the driving training initiative, various other proposals were reviewed and sanctioned.

Commissioner Singh also conducted a department-wise review of several ongoing development projects. The meeting was attended by Additional Commissioners Pradeep Jambhale Patil, Vijaykumar Khorate, Trupti Sandbhor, City Secretary Mukesh Kolap, and heads of various departments.

A total of 39 projects and decisions received approval during this session, according to officials.

### Key Decisions from the Meeting

– **Zero Waste Project**: Implementation of the “Zero Waste” initiative in municipal schools was approved, alongside funding for the Swachh Samman Sohala (Cleanliness Honours Ceremony) and preparations for the upcoming Swachh Survekshan 2025-26 (Cleanliness Survey).

– **Education Expansion**: The committee agreed to increase student intake for postgraduate courses at Yashwantrao Smruti Hospital, with academic fees to be paid to the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik.

– **Sewage Line Cleaning Extension**: The deadline for mechanical cleaning of sewage lines and manhole chambers in the B-Ward area was extended.

– **Hospital-Related Approvals**: Registration fees and penalty charges to the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board for the new Jijamata Hospital will be paid. Additionally, the purchase of lithium polymer batteries for the hospital was approved.

– **Infrastructure Development**: A revised budget for the ongoing development of DP roads in Kudulwadi (Ward No. 2) was sanctioned.

– **Housing for Economically Weaker Sections**: Construction of residential flats in Dudulgaon under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme) received the nod.

### Additional Resolutions

Administrator Shekhar Singh also approved key resolutions under the committee’s authority, including the registration of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative and the rollout of the new light motor vehicle driving training program for the transgender community.

This comprehensive approach reflects PCMC’s commitment to inclusive development and improved civic amenities across the city.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pimpri-chinchwad-pcmc-approves-four-wheeler-driving-training-programme-for-transgender-community

Finally! Remote Tribal Hamlets Near Indore Get Electricity

Remote Tribal Families in Mhow’s Forest Belt Witness Electrification for the First Time

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): For the first time, several remote tribal families living in scattered hamlets along the foothills of Mhow’s forest belt are witnessing their homes lit up with electricity. Under the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM JUGA), the Madhya Pradesh West Zone Electricity Distribution Company has extended permanent power connections to households that had until now lived in darkness.

In a special drive led by the company’s managing director, Anup Kumar Singh, nearly eight kilometres of power lines and 100 poles have been installed in remote locations of Indore’s rural circle. So far, 20 tribal families residing in isolated clusters of 4–8 houses—often located half to one-and-a-half kilometres away from main villages—have been provided electricity connections.

Superintending Engineer (Indore Rural Circle) Dr. DN Sharma said the aim is to cover all 32 identified households in these inaccessible areas by October 2, Gandhi Jayanti. “Reaching these settlements is extremely challenging due to the hilly terrain. With the help of local farmers and tractors, electricity poles were transported to the sites. Wires were then laid to ensure that even the most distant homes could finally be connected to the grid,” he added.

The electrification work has so far reached tribal settlements including Kakardamantri Wala Pura, Imli Awar Majra, Bedipura, Shahpura Kakad, Kakad Chauraha, and Mewalal Wala Majra.

Joy Among Beneficiaries

For the tribal families, the arrival of electricity has been nothing short of life-changing. Beneficiaries like Jagnesh Vasuniya and Mithun Amarsingh expressed their happiness: “Even though our homes are far from the main village, poles and wires have been installed here and power has started flowing. Meters have also been fixed, and all the families are delighted.”

Transforming Lives in Remote Areas

Officials noted that while each hamlet has only a handful of houses, ensuring access to electricity is vital for improving living standards. The initiative is expected to enhance safety, allow children to study after dark, and open up opportunities for small-scale livelihood activities.

The PM JUGA scheme, aimed at uplifting remote tribal villages through basic infrastructure, is being rolled out in phases across Madhya Pradesh. Indore’s progress under this programme demonstrates how even the most inaccessible settlements are now being connected to the mainstream of development.

https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/finally-remote-tribal-hamlets-near-indore-get-electricity

Overheard In Bhopal: New Homes, Efforts For Transfer, Efforts For Posting & More

**List of Officers’ Children Given Important Postings**

A recently released list of transfers reveals that children of several senior officers have been assigned important postings. For instance, the son of an IPS officer, despite being junior, has secured a significant position in the state’s commercial capital.

Similarly, an IAS officer who had been posted in a tribal area for a long time was taken out and given an important role. The son-in-law of a senior IAS officer was also posted in the business capital of the state, a decision made by government higher-ups some time ago.

In another case, the son of a late IAS officer has been transferred to another city and given an important post. His father, popular among bureaucrats, had died in an accident. Now, his son, an MP-cadre IAS officer, is following in his footsteps.

This time, the government has assigned young IAS officers to urban bodies, the industries department, and other key places. Against this backdrop, these three officers have been given crucial positions.

**New Homes for Senior Bureaucrats**

A few senior bureaucrats in the state have been allotted new homes by the government. After a long period, the head of the state bureaucracy has chosen a bungalow for himself. He will move into the house formerly occupied by a retired Director General of Police (DGP), which will be vacated during Navratri.

As the head of the state bureaucracy is expected to hold his position for at least one more year, he plans to shift to the new house soon, having spent the past year in a small house.

Similarly, new bungalows have been allotted to a senior IPS officer and a senior IAS officer. However, two houses remain unallotted. One bungalow, belonging to a retired officer who may be taking up new responsibilities, has been kept vacant. Another large bungalow, intended for the head of the state bureaucracy, remains empty as it did not meet his approval. Several politicians and officers have shown interest in this property.

**Efforts to Transfer a Principal Secretary**

There are ongoing attempts by certain individuals to remove a Principal Secretary (PS) from his department. These people wish to control the department themselves but have been hindered by the PS’s presence.

An organisation was recently allowed entry into the department for some work. While initial relations were smooth, tensions have since surfaced between the organisation’s members and the PS. The organisation has made demands that the department finds difficult to meet and is applying pressure on higher authorities.

The PS is currently conducting investigations before fulfilling these demands, which has further strained relations and angered the organisation. They are now lobbying the government to remove the PS, who is mentally prepared for the possibility.

Despite the pressure, none of the officers are willing to concede to the organisation’s demands.

**Conflict with Additional Chief Secretary**

Two officers within a department are currently at odds. The additional chief secretary (ACS), known for his quick wit, has caused friction with an IAS officer posted in an important position.

When this IAS officer was posted, another ACS headed the department and enjoyed strong support from senior government officials, often influencing decisions.

However, with the arrival of the new ACS, who has cordial relations with top officials, the officer’s influence has waned. While once his views were widely accepted, they are now frequently opposed. The ACS has even reprimanded him on certain occasions, which has led to the officer’s dissatisfaction.

Recent changes in top leadership have further dampened his enthusiasm. Observers believe the officer may not remain in the department for much longer, with the possibility of his transfer and replacement looming.

**Delhi Deputation Remains Elusive**

For some state officers, a transfer to Delhi remains a distant goal. Two commissioner-rank officers have applied for deputation to the Centre but are yet to receive clearance.

Dissatisfied with their current state postings, these officers are seeking opportunities in the Central Government. Despite one having political connections, both have faced hurdles in obtaining approval.

Under the current system, an officer’s performance is evaluated comprehensively for deputation consideration. Both officers have encountered issues during this 360-degree assessment.

Additionally, another IAS officer has been seeking a deputation to the Centre for one and a half years but has faced obstacles related to the specific post he desires. Meanwhile, the state government is not fully utilizing his talents.

**Efforts to Secure Important Posting**

A promotee IAS officer, who has been in the loop line for over two years, is eager to rejoin an important department. Known for his significant social connections, he has previously held key positions.

During the elections, he was transferred to the loop line and has remained there since. To return to mainstream administration, he has approached influential officers and even met with a powerful politician. However, the politician candidly informed him that his transfer recommendations would not secure a posting.

This officer, a former collector, hopes to serve as a collector again before retirement. He counts on support from senior officers with whom he previously worked, anticipating they may help him return to a prominent role.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/overheard-in-bhopal-new-homes-efforts-for-transfer-efforts-for-posting-more

MK Ayman Odeh to submit bill to Knesset to recognize Palestinian state

MK Ayman Odeh to Submit Bill to Knesset to Recognize Palestinian State

MK Ayman Odeh has announced his intention to submit a bill to the Knesset aimed at recognizing the Palestinian state. Odeh welcomed the recent trilateral recognition efforts and expressed his views on the Palestinian people, stating, “The Palestinian people are not the best people in the world, but there is no people in the world better than them.”

Odeh was seen attending a Hadash-Ta’al faction meeting at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem, on June 30, 2025.

(Photo credit: Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-868288

Palestinian foreign minister says recognition brings independence, sovereignty closer

Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian stated that the recognition of a Palestinian state by several countries this week represents an irreversible step that brings independence and sovereignty closer. This move is seen as preserving the two-state solution, which remains a critical goal for peace in the region.

Countries recognizing a Palestinian state are contributing to the realization of long-standing aspirations for Palestinian self-determination. Such diplomatic developments highlight growing international support for a negotiated settlement based on two states, living side by side in peace and security.

Photo credit: REUTERS/BORUT ZIVULOVIC

https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868276