Category Archives: india

india, politics, security, tourism

Uttar Pradesh News: President Droupadi Murmu Visits Mathura; Offers Prayers At Iconic Temples Amid Tight Security

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**President Droupadi Murmu Visits Mathura Aboard Luxury Maharaja Express**

Mathura: President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Mathura on Thursday morning aboard the luxury Maharaja Express train for a day-long visit. The special train, equipped with a Presidential suite, deluxe suites, restaurants, and lounges, brought the President and her delegation to Vrindavan Road railway station at 10 a.m.

**Temple Visits and Prayers**

According to the President’s office, her itinerary for the day includes prayers at several revered sites: Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Nidhivan, Kubja Krishna Temple, and Shri Krishna Janmsthan in Mathura. Additionally, she will visit Sudama Kuti during the day.

A special ‘maha aarti’ has been planned at the 500-year-old Kubja Krishna Temple, where prayers will be dedicated to world peace and the health of critically ill patients.

**Reception and Security Measures**

District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh confirmed that the President was warmly received by Minister for Sugarcane Development and Sugar Industry Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, Mayor Vinod Kumar Agarwal, and senior officials.

To ensure the utmost security, more than 4,000 police personnel have been deployed across the city. This effort is supported by eight companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary as well as ATS commandos. Central security agencies have also been deployed to augment the safety arrangements, and a strict no-fly zone remains in effect over the city.

**Traffic and Surveillance**

Senior Superintendent of Police Shlok Kumar stated that surveillance measures include active monitoring of social media and prompt reporting of any suspicious activities. Traffic has been diverted along the President’s convoy routes to facilitate smooth movement.

Furthermore, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which prohibits gatherings of more than five people, has been strictly enforced throughout the city during the visit.

**Return to Delhi**

After concluding her engagements in Mathura, the President’s special train is scheduled to depart from Mathura Junction in the evening, returning to Delhi.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/uttar-pradesh-news-president-droupadi-murmu-visits-mathura-offers-prayers-at-iconic-temples-amid-tight-security

defense, india, international, military, technology

India test-fires Agni Prime missile from rail-based mobile platform

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), successfully launched the intermediate-range Agni-Prime missile under a full operational scenario on Wednesday, the defence ministry announced. The location of the test-firing has not been disclosed.

This “first-of-its-kind” launch was carried out from a specially designed rail-based mobile launcher, which has the unique capability to move on a rail network without any pre-conditions. It allows users to have cross-country mobility and enables missile launch within a short reaction time, explained Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

“This successful flight test has placed India in a select group of nations with the capability to develop a canisterised launch system from a moving rail network,” Singh said on social media platform X.

The ministry highlighted that the missile is equipped with independent launch capabilities, including state-of-the-art communication systems and advanced protection mechanisms. The missile’s trajectory was carefully tracked by various ground stations, and the launch was described as a textbook execution that met all mission objectives.

“This successful launch will pave the way for the induction of futuristic rail-based missile systems into the armed services,” the ministry added.

The test launch was witnessed by senior DRDO scientists and officers from the Strategic Forces Command. Notably, the “road mobile” variant of Agni-Prime has already been inducted into the armed forces after completing a series of successful flight trials.

The recent test-firing comes just over four and a half months after the four-day military conflict between India and Pakistan.

In related developments, on Tuesday, Rajnath Singh underscored India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), emphasizing that the goal is not only to manufacture for domestic needs but also to develop capabilities that position India as a credible source of advanced technology and high-quality products globally.

During the same day, Singh and his Moroccan counterpart, Abdelatif Loudyi, jointly inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s (TASL) state-of-the-art defence manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Morocco. Singh described this event as a historic moment in the evolving strategic partnership between India and Morocco.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/india-test-fires-agni-prime-missile-from-rail-based-mobile-platform-23595727

crime, india, justice, religion

Who Is Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati? Self-Styled Godman Accused Of Sexually Harassing 17 Female Students, Possessing Car With Fake Embassy Number Plate

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**Self-Styled Godman Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati Booked for Sexual Harassment by Delhi Police**

*New Delhi:* Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, a self-styled godman and member of the management committee of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, has been booked by the Delhi Police following allegations of sexual harassment made by several female students.

A complaint was filed on August 4 at the Vasant Kunj North Police Station concerning the matter. According to police sources, statements of 32 female PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management) students enrolled under the EWS scholarship at the institute were recorded. Among them, 17 students alleged that Saraswati used abusive language, sent obscene messages, and made unwanted physical advances.

### Who Is Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati?

Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Parth Sarthy, is a committee member of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management. He is currently facing multiple sexual harassment charges.

A case has been registered against him under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Subsequently, 16 victims have deposed before a magistrate as part of the ongoing investigation.

The police also discovered a Volvo car with a forged diplomatic number plate – “39 UN 1” – parked in the institute’s basement. The vehicle is allegedly used by Saraswati. Authorities seized the car following the filing of another FIR on August 25.

Currently, Saraswati is absconding, prompting law enforcement to launch a manhunt to apprehend the self-styled godman.

### Previous Allegations and Cases

This is not the first time Saraswati has been embroiled in legal trouble. In 2009, a case involving fraud and molestation was registered against him in Delhi’s Defence Colony, according to reports by IANS.

In 2016, another molestation case was reportedly filed by a woman at the Vasant Kunj North police station, further adding to the allegations against him.

The police continue their investigation and efforts to bring the accused to justice. Further updates will be provided as the case develops.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/who-is-swami-chaitanyananda-saraswati-self-styled-godman-accused-of-sexually-harassing-17-female-students

accident, government, india, investigation, public safety

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

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**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

banking, crime, cybersecurity, india, law enforcement

78-year-old former banker loses Rs 23 crore after being under `digital arrest`

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On August 1, Malhotra received a call from a man claiming to represent a mobile connection company. The caller alleged that his Aadhaar Card had been misused in Mumbai to obtain a connection linked to terror funding cases.

“They told me I needed to speak with the Mumbai Police, and if the authorities approved, the connection would continue; otherwise, it would be disconnected and the matter reported,” Malhotra told PTI.

The scammers pressured him, claiming his Aadhaar was linked to terror funding, terror activities, and other serious offences. “They warned me not to inform anyone, including my family, or they too would be treated as co-accused,” he said.

Initially, the imposters sought information about Malhotra’s savings. “They asked how much I had in my bank accounts. I said around Rs 14 lakh. They told me to transfer it for verification, assuring me it would be returned,” he recounted.

After each transfer, the fraudsters sent him forged certificates purporting to be from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), PTI reported. As their demands grew, they asked about his mutual funds, systematic investment plans (SIPs), and other assets, claiming they were verifying them under Bombay High Court guidelines.

“They said they would verify 25 per cent of my assets first, then proceed with the rest. They threatened that my family would be named co-accused if I didn’t comply,” Malhotra said.

Under constant pressure, he visited three banks, liquidated his investments, and transferred the proceeds to accounts provided by the scammers. Each time, they issued more fake RBI certificates. Between August 1 and September 4, Malhotra was confined to his home, venturing out only to visit banks.

On September 14, the fraudsters claimed that the Mumbai Police officer investigating his case was compromised and demanded another Rs 5 crore, allegedly on behalf of the Supreme Court, to be deposited into a private bank in West Bengal. Malhotra refused, saying he would approach the police directly. After this, the calls abruptly stopped.

Realising he had been defrauded, Malhotra approached the authorities on September 19. “I spent my life savings building security for my old age. In one month, it all disappeared because I trusted the wrong people. I hope my story serves as a warning,” he said, holding back tears.

The Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit of Delhi Police, which handles cyber fraud cases, is investigating. Police have so far frozen Rs 2.67 crore in several accounts.

“The funds were layered across multiple accounts and withdrawn from different parts of the country to evade detection. Over 4,000 accounts were used to siphon off the money,” an officer privy to the investigation said. “We will crack the case soon and arrest those behind the scam.”
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/78-year-old-ex-banker-loses-rs-23-crore-to-cyber-fraudsters-was-held-under-digital-arrest-23595438

asia cup, cricket, india, pakistan, sports

Presenting most expensive spells of Jasprit Bumrah in T20Is

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**Most Expensive Spells of Jasprit Bumrah in T20I Cricket**
*By Parth Dhall | Sep 22, 2025, 6:09 PM*

India recently overcame Pakistan in a thrilling Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 encounter at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Men in Blue successfully chased down a target of 172 in just 18.5 overs, once again showcasing their dominance in the format. Earlier, Sahibzada Farhan’s 45-ball 58 had powered Pakistan to a competitive total of 171/5 in 20 overs. In a surprising turn of events, India’s premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah was hit for 45 runs in his four overs.

Here’s a look at the most expensive spells Bumrah has bowled in T20I cricket:

### 1. 50 Runs vs Australia, Hyderabad, 2022
The only time Jasprit Bumrah has conceded 50 or more runs in a T20I was during the 2022 match against Australia in Hyderabad. The right-arm seamer gave away 50 runs without taking a wicket. Australia posted a strong total of 186/7 in their 20 overs. Despite Bumrah’s expensive spell, India managed to chase down the target, winning the match by six wickets with a ball to spare. Notably, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav both scored half-centuries to anchor the chase.

### 2. 47 Runs vs West Indies, Lauderhill, 2016
In his debut year at the international level, Bumrah experienced a challenging outing against the West Indies in Lauderhill. He conceded 47 runs but picked up two wickets. The West Indies capitalized on this to post a massive 245/6 in their 20 overs. India came agonizingly close, thanks to KL Rahul’s unbeaten 110, but ultimately lost the match by just one run.

### 3. 45 Runs vs New Zealand and Pakistan
Bumrah’s recent spell against Pakistan in Dubai, where he was taken for 45 runs, ranks as his joint third-most expensive in T20Is. He conceded the same number of runs against New Zealand during the 2020 Hamilton T20I as well. In both matches, Bumrah went wicketless. Despite this, India managed to defeat New Zealand in a thrilling one-over eliminator (Super Over) following the Hamilton game.

—

Jasprit Bumrah is widely regarded as one of the best T20 bowlers in the world, and these few expensive spells are exceptions in an otherwise impressive career. His ability to bounce back and deliver in crucial moments remains a key asset for the Indian cricket team.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/most-runs-conceded-by-jasprit-bumrah-in-a-t20i/story

cricket, india, sports, west indies

When will BCCI announce India’s squad for West Indies Tests?

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**When Will BCCI Announce India’s Squad for West Indies Tests?**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 21, 2025, 03:44 PM*

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce the Indian Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against the West Indies. According to BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, the team selection will be finalized and revealed on either September 23 or 24.

### Series Details: India’s 1st Home Test Series under Shubman Gill

The first Test will commence on October 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, followed by the second Test starting on October 10 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. This series marks India’s first home Test assignment under the leadership of new captain Shubman Gill.

India enters the series on the back of an impressive 2-2 draw against England in their last Test engagement.

### West Indies Squad Updates: Key Returns and New Inclusions

West Indies have reinforced their squad for the Test series with some significant additions. Experienced batters Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze are back in contention, while left-arm spinner Khary Pierre has been selected for his maiden Test outing.

Head coach Daren Sammy commented on the squad changes, stating, “The return of Tagenarine Chanderpaul is to help transform our fortunes at the top of the order given the recent struggles.”

### Team Strategy and Player Management

The inclusion of Khary Pierre is strategic, aimed at strengthening the spin department amid expected spin-friendly pitch conditions. Meanwhile, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie has been rested to manage his workload ahead of a packed limited-overs schedule, including the T20 World Cup scheduled for February-March next year.

Notably, Kraigg Brathwaite, who faced challenges with the bat during the last home Test series against Australia, has been excluded from the squad.

### West Indies Test Squad

– Roston Chase (Captain)
– Jomel Warrican (Vice-captain)
– Kevlon Anderson
– Alick Athanaze
– John Campbell
– Tagenarine Chanderpaul
– Justin Greaves
– Shai Hope
– Tevin Imlach
– Alzarri Joseph
– Shamar Joseph
– Brandon King
– Anderson Phillip
– Khary Pierre
– Jayden Seales

Stay tuned for the official announcement of India’s playing XI as the series approaches.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/ind-vs-wi-tests-bcci-secretary-confirms-squad-announcement-date/story

cricket, india, sports, west indies

When will BCCI announce India’s squad for West Indies Tests?

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**When will BCCI announce India’s squad for West Indies Tests?**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 21, 2025 03:44 pm*

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to unveil the Indian squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies. According to BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, the team selection will be finalized shortly, with the announcement expected on either September 23 or 24.

> “Selection for the Indian Test team for the upcoming Test series against West Indies will be done on September 23 or 24,” Saikia confirmed at the BCCI headquarters.

### Series Details: India’s First Home Test Series Under Shubman Gill

The first Test match of the series will be held from October 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The second Test will follow from October 10 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. This series marks India’s first home Test assignment under the leadership of new captain Shubman Gill.

India comes into the series after a competitive 2-2 draw in their previous Test series in England.

### West Indies Squad Updates: Key Returns and New Inclusions

West Indies have strengthened their squad with the return of top-order batters Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze. Additionally, left-arm spinner Khary Pierre has been included in the team for the first time.

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy noted, “The return of Tagenarine Chanderpaul is to help transform our fortunes at the top of the order given the recent struggles.”

Pierre’s inclusion aims to capitalize on the spin-friendly pitch conditions expected during the series, serving as a second spinner alongside the team.

### Managing Workload: Motie Rested; Brathwaite Omitted

Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie has been rested to manage his workload in preparation for the upcoming limited-overs schedule, including the T20 World Cup set for February–March.

Also notable is the exclusion of Kraigg Brathwaite, who struggled with the bat during the last home series against Australia.

### West Indies Test Squad

The full West Indies squad for the series includes:

– Roston Chase (c)
– Jomel Warrican (vice-captain)
– Kevlon Anderson
– Alick Athanaze
– John Campbell
– Tagenarine Chanderpaul
– Justin Greaves
– Shai Hope
– Tevin Imlach
– Alzarri Joseph
– Shamar Joseph
– Brandon King
– Anderson Phillip
– Khary Pierre
– Jayden Seales

Stay tuned for the official announcement of India’s squad in the coming days as preparations ramp up for this exciting Test series.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/ind-vs-wi-tests-bcci-secretary-confirms-squad-announcement-date/story

defense, india, technology

Drones Made By MP’s Satna Boy Pass Test At Army Camp

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**Innovative Drone Project by Satna Resident for Indian Army**

Satna (Madhya Pradesh): Anshuman Shukla, a resident of the Kitaha area in Satna district, has developed two advanced drones for the Indian Army designed to neutralize enemy targets. These drones successfully passed testing at the campus of the 609 EME Battalion in Meerut district, Uttar Pradesh.

Currently, Anshuman is working on enhancing the drones’ operational range. Alongside him, his two friends, Abhijit Patel and Akhilesh Singh Rathore, are actively involved in the project.

The Government of India has announced that this initiative is part of **Operation Sindoor**, under which the manufacturing of these drones is underway. One drone is specifically built for attacking enemy positions, while the other is designated for post-mission damage assessment.

Anshuman, the son of contractor Anil Shukla, was inspired to develop these drones following the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering at the Institute of Engineering Technology, Indore.

The team handed over their project to Lieutenant Colonel Nitin Verma of the 609 Battalion. The development spanned from August 10 to September 5, during which the trio stayed at the army camp to complete the work.

Both drones are equipped with modern systems, featuring SIM cards that enable activation from anywhere in the world via Short Message Service (SMS). Currently, the drones have a maximum range of 20 km, a significant improvement over existing drones that typically have a 5 km range. Their top speed reaches 180 km/h.

Anshuman explained that the attack drone is designed to self-destruct after completing its mission to avoid capture. The surveillance drone, meanwhile, is fitted with a night vision camera to estimate damage inflicted on the enemy.

The drones boast a portable, lightweight design and were developed with a total expenditure of Rs 3 lakh. They take off from altitudes of 100-200 metres, keeping them below radar detection, and operate at a flying height of approximately 400 metres above ground level.

Each drone can carry between 2 to 4 kilograms of explosives, making them highly effective tactical tools for the battlefield.

This pioneering project marks a significant contribution from young innovators towards strengthening India’s defense capabilities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/drones-made-by-mps-satna-boy-pass-test-at-army-camp

crime, india, law, security, terrorism

Pahalgam terror attack: NIA court extends custody of accused persons by 45 days

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A special NIA court in Jammu has extended by 45 days — beyond the stipulated 90-day period — the custodial remand of two accused arrested for allegedly harbouring Pakistani terrorists involved in the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April.

Special NIA judge Sandeep Gandotra extended the investigation and remand period of Bashir Ahmad Jothat, who hails from Baisaran in Pahalgam, and Parvaiz Ahmad from Batkote in Pahalgam. The court held a prima facie case in favour of the extension of the remand and investigation, citing the allegations, progress of investigation, and pending forensic and DNA profiling reports.

Accordingly, the court granted a 45-day extension to the investigating officer for the investigation of the case beyond the initial 90-day period, applicable to accused Jothat and Ahmad. The order directed the authorities to complete the investigation as soon as possible and urged the investigating officer to expedite the probe.

The original 90-day remand period for investigation, along with an additional 10 days of judicial remand, was due to expire on Friday. After the expiry of the earlier remand, Jothat and Ahmad were produced virtually before the court on September 18, which then extended their investigation and remand period to enable the NIA to continue its probe, officials confirmed.

The judge observed that the plea for a 90-day extension of the investigation was well-founded and deserving of acceptance, especially as the probe had reached a crucial stage. Several witness statements and forensic reports were still pending, which warranted the extension.

The case, re-registered by the NIA, pertains to the killing of tourists from a particular community at Baisaran meadow, Pahalgam, on April 22, 2025. The accused, Jothat and Ahmad, were arrested on June 22 and have since been held in judicial custody at Amphalla Jail in Jammu.

According to the NIA, the accused disclosed the identities of three armed terrorists involved in the attack, confirming that they were Pakistani nationals affiliated with the banned terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The federal agency alleged that both accused had knowingly harboured these terrorists at a seasonal dhok (hut) in Hill Park, Pahalgam, prior to the April 22 attack that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, and left 16 others injured.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the information. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at their absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/pahalgam-terror-attack-nia-court-extends-custody-of-accused-persons-by-45-days-23594914