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

Bangladesh Cricket Board elections on October 6, Tamim raises concerns

**Bangladesh Cricket Board Elections Scheduled for October 6; Tamim Iqbal Raises Concerns**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 21, 2025, 9:55 PM*

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) elections are set to take place on October 6, as announced today by the country’s Election Commission. In this election, the general members body, known as the councilors, will elect 23 out of the 25 board directors. Following this, a BCB president will be chosen from the 25 directors to serve a four-year term.

**Tamim Iqbal Alleges Interference in Election Process**

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal, who recently declared his intention to run for a position, has raised serious concerns about the election process. During a press conference in Dhaka held alongside other candidates and former BCB directors, Tamim accused the current BCB president, Nazmul Hassan, of “interference” in the elections.

Tamim criticized Nazmul Hassan for unilaterally extending the deadline for nomination submissions twice. He pointed out that a letter dated September 18, signed by Nazmul himself to extend the deadline, was not issued by the BCB’s chief executive. “The election commission has been in charge since their appointment. The BCB president extended the nomination deadline twice,” Tamim stated.

**Concerns Over Violation of BCB Constitution**

Tamim further alleged that the BCB’s constitution was breached when board representatives from eight divisions and 64 districts were nominated by an ad-hoc committee. He expressed that this nomination process conflicted with the established constitution, describing the entire procedure as a “selection” rather than a true election.

“If elections are conducted this way, it is no longer an election but a selection. Elections should be open and fair for everyone,” Tamim emphasized.

**Call for Fairness and Integrity**

Tamim appealed to the authorities to respect the original list of councilors. “I hope that those declared as councilors on September 17 remain unchanged. There should be no modifications,” he urged, stressing the need for a transparent and fair election process.

The election schedule includes the publication of a draft voter list on September 22, followed by the final list on September 25.

**Overview of the BCB Election Process**

The upcoming BCB election will proceed in three categories:

1. **Division and District Directors**: 10 directors will be elected from divisions and districts across Bangladesh.

2. **Dhaka Clubs Representatives**: 12 directors will be elected from representatives of Dhaka’s cricket clubs.

3. **Special Category Director**: One director will be elected from former cricketers, national captains, security forces, and councilors nominated by the National Sports Council.

Additionally, the Bangladesh government will appoint two directors to serve on the board.

As election day approaches, all eyes remain on the BCB and the Election Commission to ensure that the process is conducted fairly and transparently for the betterment of Bangladesh cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/tamim-iqbal-raises-concerns-ahead-of-bcb-elections/story

Rory McIlroy fires back at Bryson DeChambeau’s trash talk ahead of Ryder Cup

Rory McIlroy has never shied away from trash talk during a Ryder Cup, and with the tournament at Bethpage Black this week, he has started again. McIlroy, who will star for Team Europe, took aim at one specific Team USA player: Bryson DeChambeau.

Earlier this summer, DeChambeau said he looked forward to talking some smack to McIlroy at the Ryder Cup. However, McIlroy brushed it off.

“I think the only way he gets attention is by mentioning other people,” McIlroy told The Guardian in an interview over the weekend. “That is basically what I think of that. To get attention he will mention me or Scottie [Scheffler] or others.”

The rivalry between McIlroy and DeChambeau has grown since their showdown at the Masters in April, where McIlroy won his first green jacket to complete the career Grand Slam. During that round, McIlroy was paired with DeChambeau, who struggled at Augusta National.

Afterward, DeChambeau told reporters he never spoke to McIlroy during the final round and found it odd. McIlroy, however, saw it differently. “I’m not going to try and be his best mate out there,” he said at the PGA Championship.

The feud reignited at the 2024 U.S. Open, where DeChambeau prevailed after McIlroy’s final-round collapse at Pinehurst No. 2. McIlroy’s outspoken opposition to LIV Golf, where DeChambeau now plays, has also fueled tension between the two stars.

That sets the stage for this week at Bethpage Black, where trash talk is expected both on the course and among the fans. The venue is anticipating about 50,000 spectators per day during the three-day tournament.

For more sports coverage, visit FoxNews.com.
https://www.foxnews.com/sports/rory-mcilroy-fires-back-bryson-dechambeaus-trash-talk-ahead-ryder-cup

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

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

**Asia Cup 2025: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 21, 2025, 09:53 pm*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan has come under fire for his controversial celebration during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India. After scoring a stylish half-century, Farhan made a gun firing gesture towards his dugout, a move that sparked widespread criticism and outrage.

The incident has been particularly sensitive given the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent Indian citizens at the hands of Pakistan-based militants. Many fans took to social media to express their disappointment over Farhan’s actions, interpreting the gesture as an insensitive provocation.

**The Controversial Celebration**

Farhan reached his 50 runs in impressive fashion during the match on September 21, hitting a massive six off Axar Patel in the 10th over. However, instead of a standard celebration, Farhan’s firing gun gesture quickly drew sharp attention and backlash online, overshadowing his performance.

**Reactions from Fans**

Social media users reacted swiftly to Farhan’s gesture, condemning it for being inappropriate amidst the recent tragic events. One disappointed fan wrote, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the IND vs PAK match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another user added, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

**Match Summary**

On the field, Pakistan faced challenges early in their innings at the Dubai International Stadium. They lost three wickets during the powerplay. Farhan himself was eventually dismissed by Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube for 58 runs off 45 balls.

Dube had earlier taken the wicket of Saim Ayub, who scored 21 runs. Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman’s innings ended controversially when he was caught behind by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Additionally, Kuldeep Yadav took the wicket of Hussain Talat as India aimed to keep Pakistan’s score in check during this crucial Super 4 match.

The Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan always carries intense emotions on and off the field, but Farhan’s celebration has heightened debates around sportsmanship and respect amid ongoing political sensitivities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

ONGC, OIL eye ₹3,200cr stratigraphic drilling campaign: What is it?

**ONGC and OIL Launch ₹3,200 Crore Stratigraphic Drilling Campaign in Untapped Offshore Basins**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | September 21, 2025 | 6:23 PM*

State-run oil explorers Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Oil India Limited (OIL) are preparing to undertake a major stratigraphic drilling campaign valued at ₹3,200 crore. Scheduled to commence early next year, the project targets untapped offshore areas to boost India’s hydrocarbon exploration efforts.

### First Phase: Drilling in Four Key Basins

The initial phase of the campaign will involve drilling four wells across prominent sedimentary basins — Andaman, Mahanadi, Saurashtra, and Bengal. These regions hold significant promise for undiscovered oil and gas resources and are currently underexplored.

### What Is Stratigraphic Drilling?

Stratigraphic drilling, also known as a stratigraphic test well, is an exploratory technique used to analyze underground geological formations. Unlike conventional drilling that seeks immediate resource extraction, this method focuses on building detailed geological profiles. This data is crucial for making informed decisions on future hydrocarbon exploration.

Global energy major BP will extend its technical expertise to ONGC and OIL by helping identify optimal drilling locations and supporting the drilling operations.

### Financial Backing and Government Support

The Indian government has pledged to fully fund this strategic drilling campaign. The ₹3,200 crore budget includes payments to BP for their technical services, reflecting strong governmental commitment to enhancing domestic energy capabilities.

### Importance for India’s Energy Security

India is heavily reliant on oil and gas imports, with nearly 88% of its oil consumption and about half its natural gas demand met through imports. This dependence costs the country approximately $150 billion annually.

In an effort to reduce this import bill and achieve greater energy self-sufficiency, the government has taken significant steps, including slashing ‘no-go’ zones by 99%. This policy shift has unlocked over one million square kilometers of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for oil and gas exploration.

### Enhancing Exploration Potential

Further bolstering India’s exploration drive, a Data Center was launched in 2022 at the University of Houston to showcase sedimentary basin data. Additionally, the National Data Repository (NDR) has been upgraded to a cloud-based platform for better data accessibility.

Global energy giants such as ExxonMobil and Chevron have acquired Indian basin data, signaling increased international confidence in India’s vast exploration potential.

This stratigraphic drilling campaign by ONGC and OIL marks a significant step toward India’s goal of enhancing domestic hydrocarbon production and strengthening its energy security in the coming years.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/ongongc-oil-to-begin-deep-sea-stratigraphic-drilling-in-early-2026c/story

Insurers to pass full GST benefit to customers

**Insurers to Pass Full GST Benefit to Customers**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 06:47 PM*

Insurance companies are preparing to implement the new Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates starting Monday. According to industry insiders, insurers will pass on the entire GST reduction directly to customers without altering product prices for the time being.

This initiative is expected to boost demand slightly, as many customers had postponed their insurance purchases in anticipation of the new tax regime.

**Implementation Status**

While some insurers are ready with their entire product portfolio updated to reflect the new GST rates, others may initially offer only their best-selling products. This phased approach will continue until all offerings are aligned with the revised tax structure.

This move is part of a broader industry effort to comply with the updated tax regulations while maintaining affordable insurance options for consumers.

**Margin Concerns**

Despite passing on the GST cut, insurers remain cautious about the potential impact on profit margins due to the withdrawal of input tax credit. The revised tax structure is seen as part of the government’s wider strategy to simplify and streamline taxation across sectors.

However, the long-term effects of these changes on both businesses and consumers are yet to be fully understood.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/insurers-to-pass-on-gst-reduction-to-customers/story

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

**Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 21, 2025, 9:53 PM*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan’s celebration following his half-century in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India has sparked widespread criticism and controversy.

During the match held on September 21 at the Dubai International Stadium, Farhan reached his 50 runs in style by smashing a huge six off India’s Axar Patel in the 10th over, injecting momentum into Pakistan’s innings. However, his subsequent celebration raised eyebrows — Farhan made a firing gun gesture pointed towards his dugout.

This act quickly drew backlash on social media, given the sensitive context. The incident occurred only months after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 innocent Indian tourists lost their lives in an assault claimed to be carried out by Pakistan-based militants. Many fans interpreted Farhan’s gesture as highly inappropriate and disrespectful in light of recent events.

**Public Reaction and Outrage**

Social media users were swift to express their disappointment and anger over Farhan’s celebration. One fan tweeted, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the Ind vs Pak match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another harshly commented, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

The gesture not only overshadowed Farhan’s on-field performance but also intensified tensions between cricket fans amid the longstanding rivalry between the two nations.

**Match Summary**

In the Super 4 clash, Pakistan faced early setbacks as they lost three wickets in the powerplay overs. Farhan gave a fighting effort, scoring 58 runs off 45 balls before being dismissed by Shivam Dube.

Earlier wickets included Saim Ayub, who was taken out by Dube after scoring 21, and Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman, controversially caught behind by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Kuldeep Yadav also claimed the wicket of Hussain Talat as India aimed to restrict Pakistan’s scoring.

The match remains a high-stakes encounter as both teams compete fiercely in the Asia Cup tournament.

*Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis of the Asia Cup 2025.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to begin filming tomorrow

**Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to Begin Filming Tomorrow**

*By Isha Sharma | September 21, 2025, 05:35 PM*

Mohanlal, the lead actor of the acclaimed *Drishyam* franchise, has officially announced that filming for *Drishyam 3* will commence on September 22. He shared this exciting news with the media a day after being honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award will be presented to Mohanlal at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23. This makes him only the second Malayali actor to receive this esteemed accolade, following legendary filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

### Production Details and What to Expect

Mohanlal revealed that the production for *Drishyam 3* will begin with a traditional pooja ceremony. Following this, he plans to travel to New Delhi to attend the National Film Awards event.

The *Drishyam* franchise began in 2013, centered around the story of Georgekutty, a cable TV operator who goes to great lengths to protect his family after a crime. The sequel, *Drishyam 2*, released in 2021, continued this gripping narrative several years later.

Director Jeethu Joseph has previously hinted that *Drishyam 3* will be a natural continuation of Georgekutty’s story. Unlike the second installment, which featured a complex thriller format, the upcoming film is expected to adopt a different narrative style.

### Franchise Evolution and Global Reach

The *Drishyam* films have enjoyed tremendous success and have been remade across various Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. The story has even been adapted into Chinese, making it one of the most widely remade Indian film franchises worldwide.

Mohanlal was last seen in the film *Hridayapoorvam* and continues to captivate audiences with his versatile performances.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Drishyam 3* as the production unfolds.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/mohanlal-shares-update-on-drishyam-3/story

iPhone Air gives a sneak peek at Apple’s upcoming foldable

**iPhone Air Gives a Sneak Peek at Apple’s Upcoming Foldable**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 06:30 PM*

Apple’s much-anticipated foldable iPhone, expected to launch next year, might resemble two iPhone Air devices placed side by side. This insight comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter.

### Design Speculation: The iPhone Air Prototype

The design of the foldable iPhone has sparked speculation that the iPhone Air may have served as a prototype for Apple’s first foldable device. The thin, sleek look of the iPhone Air could be a precursor to the design language Apple plans to implement in its foldable phone. Reports indicate that the foldable model will feature a titanium chassis, making it a notable technical marvel.

### Manufacturing Insights: Production in China

Contrary to earlier reports suggesting production would start in India, Gurman’s report reveals that Apple will manufacture the foldable iPhone primarily in China, with at least some production continuing there.

### Pricing and Launch Schedule

The foldable iPhone is expected to be priced around $2,000 (approximately ₹1.66 lakh), with some earlier rumors indicating a price range between $2,100 and $2,300 (₹1.75 lakh to ₹1.91 lakh).

Apple is likely to launch the iPhone Fold alongside the iPhone 18 series in the fall of 2026, with an official unveiling anticipated in September. However, similar to previous launches like the iPhone X in 2017, the release could be pushed to October or November.

Stay tuned as Apple gears up to introduce what could be its most innovative iPhone yet.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/apple-s-foldable-iphone-could-closely-resemble-iphone-air-design/story

Exit mobile version