Summarize Next Article ‘She had bad breath’: Indian claims sexual assault accusation untrue By Chanshimla Varah Sep 22, 2025 05: 06 pm What’s the story Ankit Sharma, a 46-year-old Indian national and Singapore permanent resident, has been sentenced to four years in prison and six strokes of the cane for molesting a woman at Changi City Point mall. The incident took place on March 1, 2023, when Sharma met the victim, a 31-year-old technology specialist recruiter, for a professional meeting. During their meeting over drinks, Sharma made sexual advances, which made the situation uncomfortable. Legal proceedings Sharma’s defense claimed victim interacted with him voluntarily When the woman went to the restroom and then returned, Sharma dragged her into a nearby nursing room, where he forced a kiss on her, held her back, and made aggressive sex overtures despite her protests, according to Deputy Public Prosecutor Sheldon Lim. Sharma denied the charges, claiming that the victim had consented to go to the nursing room. His defense argued that she interacted with him voluntarily but got upset after he commented on her bad breath. Sentence details Prosecution described sexual exploitation as ‘extremely high’ The court, however, rejected Sharma’s defense and found him guilty of aggravated outrage of modesty. The prosecution described the sexual exploitation as “extremely high” and the intrusion as “intense and prolonged.” Sharma was sentenced to four years in prison with six strokes of the cane, despite his lawyer seeking a lighter sentence of three to three-and-a-half years with fewer cane strokes.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/dragged-kissed-forcefully-indian-jailed-in-singapore-for-molesting-woman/story
Category Archives: law
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.
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**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.
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**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.
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**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.
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**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.
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**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
Bombay HC Orders Expert Committee To Curb Urban Chaos In Badlapur, Ensuring Systematic Town Planning
**Mumbai: Bombay High Court Orders Expert Committee to Tackle Urban Chaos in Badlapur**
The Bombay High Court has described the unchecked growth of Badlapur as a recipe for “urban chaos” and a “municipal nightmare.” In response, the court has ordered the formation of an expert improvement committee tasked with preparing a blueprint for the town’s systematic development. Badlapur falls under the jurisdiction of the Kulgaon-Badlapur Municipal Council (KBMC) in Thane district.
### Civic Infrastructure Concerns
A bench comprising Justices Girish Kulkarni and Arif Doctor highlighted critical infrastructure shortcomings in Badlapur. The lack of proper drainage lines, sewerage facilities, and functional sewage treatment plants has left thousands of residents struggling with basic civic services.
“The present plight appears to be completely beyond the control and/or comprehension of the Chief Officer to achieve appropriate town planning,” the court remarked. It stressed the urgent need for external expertise to address these issues effectively.
### Formation of Expert Committee
The court directed that the expert committee be constituted within two weeks. This committee will identify pressing urban planning problems and propose both immediate and long-term solutions.
The committee will include:
– Experts nominated by CIDCO and the state’s director of town planning
– The additional collector of Thane
– The CEO of KBMC
– A representative of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB)
– An eminent social worker nominated by the civic body
The overarching goal is to transform Kulgaon-Badlapur into a “Model Town” comparable to Navi Mumbai.
### Complaint and Compensation Ordered
The ruling follows a plea filed by Yashwant Anna Bhoir, who alleged that sewage from the Trishul Golden Ville Cooperative Housing Society, developed by A Plus Lifespace, was draining into his adjoining plot. Advocates Avinash Fatangare and Archana Shelar appeared on Bhoir’s behalf.
In response, the court ordered the developer to pay Rs 10 lakh in compensation to Bhoir and mandated remedial measures to be implemented within six weeks. Additionally, Rs 50,000 in costs were imposed on KBMC due to the civic body’s failure to enforce basic regulations.
### Ward-Wise Inspections Mandated
Raising “great doubt” about KBMC’s enforcement of powers against unauthorized drainage connections, the court ordered ward-wise inspections of high-rise buildings to curb such violations.
### Environmental Concerns
The bench was particularly critical of the ongoing release of sewage and untreated waste into the Ulhas River, condemning it as “an intolerable attack by ‘we the humans’ on such natural resources.”
### The Need for Planned Development
Noting Badlapur’s rise as a “popular suburb” due to its connectivity with Mumbai and Thane, the court cautioned that development must not outpace infrastructural capacity.
“Authorities are required to ensure robust town planning measures… not an urban chaos resulting in a haphazard concrete jungle,” the judges said. They emphasized that poor planning already jeopardizes citizens’ fundamental right to a healthy environment.
### Public Health Warning
The court warned that failure to act promptly would lead to “a nightmare of municipal chaos and high degree of urban disorder,” causing numerous public woes, including health hazards such as typhoid, malaria, and dengue.
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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/bombay-hc-orders-expert-committee-to-curb-urban-chaos-in-badlapur-ensuring-systematic-town-planning
Pahalgam terror attack: NIA court extends custody of accused persons by 45 days
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
Vodafone Idea shares rise 9% as Centre seeks AGR solution
**Vodafone Idea Shares Rise 9% as Centre Seeks AGR Solution**
*By Mudit Dube | Sep 19, 2025, 01:27 PM*
Vodafone Idea’s shares surged by a significant 9% on Friday following a positive indication from the Indian government regarding the telecom company’s plea related to Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR).
The Centre informed the Supreme Court that it was not opposing Vodafone Idea’s request and acknowledged that “some solution is required.” This development has brought much-needed relief to the beleaguered telecom operator, whose financial health has been under severe strain due to AGR-related dues.
**Government Stance**
The Centre told the Supreme Court, “Not opposing Vodafone Idea plea, some solution is required, government is also an equity holder. Some solution may be required, subject to Supreme Court approval.”
This statement confirms that the government is not against the company’s request and recognizes its position as a key stakeholder in Vodafone Idea. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case on September 26.
**Background of the Case**
The case stems from a Supreme Court order in March 2020, which upheld AGR dues up to the financial year 2017 and barred reassessment for those periods. Despite this ruling, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) raised fresh claims for the financial years 2018 and 2019.
Vodafone Idea contends that much of the new demand overlaps with settled periods, making the additional claims contentious.
Following the conversion of dues amounting to ₹53,083 crore into equity, the government now owns 48.99% of Vodafone Idea.
With total AGR liabilities approaching ₹2 trillion, Vodafone Idea has warned that the additional claims could threaten its survival, impact 198 million subscribers, and put over 18,000 jobs at risk.
The telecom industry and investors alike are closely monitoring the Supreme Court’s upcoming hearing, hoping for a resolution that ensures the company’s sustainable future.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/centre-urges-sc-for-agr-resolution-vodafone-idea-shares-surge/story
BMW accident: Delhi court says CCTV footage cannot be shared with accused
Advocate Gagan Bhatnagar, representing Kaur, argued that the case hinged on CCTV footage from Dhaula Kuan metro pillars 65 and 67, and that examining it could reveal additional details. However, the magistrate stated that there is no law permitting the footage to be provided to the accused, reported PTI.
Kaur’s counsel responded, “I am not saying give it to me but to preserve it and submit it in the court.”
Bhatnagar further alleged that the investigating officer (IO) gave an evasive reply, stating that a notice had been sent to the person concerned to provide the footage to Delhi Police. He added that senior police officials had previously stated they had watched the footage, contrary to the IO’s reply.
The court directed the IO to appear on Friday and issued a notice to the station house officer of Dhaula Kuan Police Station. The hearing will continue on Friday, reported PTI.
Opposing the bail plea, the Delhi Police stated that the accused was not seriously injured despite having admitted herself to the intensive care unit (ICU). They also highlighted that she took the injured to a hospital far away from the spot, which raises serious doubt, according to news agency ANI.
Kaur has been remanded to judicial custody until September 27, and her bail plea is scheduled for Saturday.
The victim, 52-year-old Navjot Singh, served as the deputy secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs and was a resident of Hari Nagar. He succumbed to injuries following the accident, which took place on Ring Road near the Delhi Cantonment Metro station on the afternoon of September 14. Singh and his wife were returning home after visiting Bangla Sahib Gurdwara.
A case has been registered under Sections 281 (rash driving), 125B (endangering life or personal safety of others), 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), and 238 (causing disappearance of evidence) of the BNS.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/delhi-bmw-crash-court-says-cctv-footage-cannot-be-shared-with-accused-23594695
Bombay HC Issues Notices To NIA & Acquitted Accused In 2008 Malegaon Blast Case
**Bombay High Court Issues Notices in 2008 Malegaon Blast Case Appeal**
Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Thursday issued notices to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and those acquitted in the 2008 Malegaon blast case. This development follows an appeal filed by family members of the blast victims, challenging the special court’s verdict that acquitted seven persons, including BJP MLA Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Col Prasad Purohit.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad has scheduled the appeal hearing after six weeks.
### About the Appeal
The appeal challenges the special court’s decision last year to acquit seven accused individuals, among whom are BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Col Prasad Purohit. The blast in Malegaon resulted in six deaths and over 100 injuries.
### Blast Details and Investigation
On September 29, 2008, an explosive device strapped to a motorcycle detonated near a mosque in Malegaon, killing six people and injuring 101 others.
Initially, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested eleven individuals. However, after a decade, only seven were tried in court, with the others discharged. The NIA took over the investigation in 2011.
On July 31, special judge A.K. Lahoti acquitted all seven accused, stating that there was no “reliable and cogent evidence” presented against them to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt.
### Grounds of the Appeal
The families of the victims contend that the trial court acted merely as a “post office,” failing to rigorously test the prosecution’s case, especially considering missing or hostile evidence.
The appeal asserts that any procedural defects or investigation lapses should not have resulted in acquittals, particularly in a terrorism case. It further alleges that the NIA diluted the case deliberately.
Highlighting concerns about the prosecution, the petition references former special prosecutor Rohini Salian’s public statement that she was pressured to slow down proceedings against the accused. The replacement prosecutor, the petition argues, lacked experience in handling terror trials.
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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-bombay-hc-issues-notices-to-nia-acquitted-accused-in-2008-malegaon-blast-case
Baseless: Poll body junks Rahul Gandhi’s vote chori charge against Gyanesh Kumar
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has dismissed the allegations of voter deletions made by Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, during his recent press conference. The Commission called these claims “incorrect and baseless,” emphasizing that no votes can be deleted online by the public.
However, the poll body did acknowledge that certain unsuccessful attempts were made to delete electors in Karnataka’s Aland Assembly Constituency. In response, the ECI has filed an FIR to investigate the matter further.
Rahul Gandhi began his press conference by stating that someone had attempted to delete 6,018 votes from the Aland seat in Karnataka using software and phone numbers from outside the state. He also displayed the cell phone numbers that were allegedly used in the attempt to manipulate the voter list.
The Election Commission continues to monitor the situation and is taking necessary steps to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/baseless-and-incorrect-election-commission-junks-rahul-gandhis-big-vote-chori-charge-2789335-2025-09-18?utm_source=rss
No stay on Jolly LLB 3: Bombay High Court dismisses plea alleging film ridicules judges
**Bombay High Court Dismisses Plea Seeking Stay on Release of Jolly LLB 3**
The Bombay High Court on Wednesday dismissed a petition that sought to stall the release of *Jolly LLB 3*, the highly anticipated courtroom drama starring Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi. Directed by Subhash Kapoor, the film is scheduled to hit theatres this Friday, September 19.
The plea, filed by the Association for Aiding Justice, alleged that the film ridiculed lawyers and judges. It also objected to the song *Bhai Vakeel Hai*, claiming it demeaned the legal profession.
During the hearing, advocate Dipesh Siroya, representing the petitioner, pointed to a scene where judges are referred to as “mamu,” calling the term derogatory. However, the bench comprising Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad dismissed these concerns outright.
“We have been facing mockery since day one. Don’t worry about us,” the judges remarked while rejecting the plea.
The court was also informed that the Allahabad High Court had already dismissed a similar petition against the film.
Meanwhile, legal challenges to *Jolly LLB 3* are being heard in other states as well. The Madhya Pradesh High Court recently reprimanded a lawyer for filing a case without including the filmmakers as parties. Similarly, the Gujarat High Court instructed a petitioner to consider the Allahabad High Court’s order before proceeding further.
Despite these objections, *Jolly LLB 3* remains on track for its scheduled release on September 19.
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**Also Read:**
[SHOCKING: PVR Inox puts advance booking of Jolly LLB 3 on hold across the country]
**More Pages:**
– Jolly LLB 3 Box Office Collection
– Bollywood News Live Updates
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/no-stay-jolly-llb-3-bombay-high-court-dismisses-plea-alleging-film-ridicules-judges/