Category Archives: Newsbeat

Newsbeat

UGC-NET Cancelled: Exam Integrity Compromised

UGC-NET Cancelled Affecting 9 Lakh Students, Exam Integrity Compromised, Says Government

The Ministry of Education (MoE) announced late Wednesday night the cancellation of the University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET). This decision came after over 9 lakh students took the test across 317 cities, following concerns from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs about the exam’s integrity being compromised.

UGC-NET, crucial for entry-level teaching jobs in Indian universities and PhD admissions, is the first central public exam to be scrapped under a new anti-paper leak law. The investigation has been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and details about the re-exam will be provided later.

The new law, passed in February 2024, imposes severe penalties, including three to five years in prison and fines up to Rs 10 lakh for cheating and related offenses.

The cancellation surprised senior officials of the National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts UGC-NET. NTA is already facing criticism for alleged irregularities in the NEET undergraduate exam. On Tuesday, UGC Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar had tweeted that the UGC-NET June 2024 was successfully conducted. However, he did not respond to calls after the cancellation announcement.

The Ministry’s statement mentioned receiving adverse inputs from the National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit under the Ministry of Home Affairs, suggesting that irregularities were noticed at some exam centers. The cancellation affects all 9,08,580 candidates, indicating that the compromise likely involved the first paper, which is common to all examinees.

UGC-NET consists of two papers: the first is common for all candidates, and the second is subject-specific. The exam, lasting three hours, includes 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). It is held twice a year, in June and December, and has been computer-based since December 2018, but this year it returned to pen-and-paper format to accommodate more rural exam centers.

Opposition parties criticized the government’s decision. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge called it a “victory for the spirit of millions of students” and a defeat of the Modi government’s arrogance. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi plans to meet some NEET aspirants, and the party will raise the issue in Parliament. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also condemned the government, highlighting the impact on students and the need for accountability.

Source.

ALSO READ | DOST 2nd Phase: Commerce Top, 41K Seats Allotted

Newsbeat

IIT Bombay Fines Students Rs 1.2 Lakh for Ramayana Play

IIT Bombay Fines Students for ‘Derogatory’ Play on Ram and Sita

IIT Bombay has fined a student Rs 1.2 lakh for participating in a play called “Raahovan” during the institute’s Performing Arts Festival in March. The play, loosely based on the Ramayana, angered some students who felt it disrespected Hinduism and was derogatory towards Ram and Sita.

Seven other students were also penalized, though the details of their punishments are unclear. When asked about the actions taken, IIT Bombay’s spokesperson declined to comment.

On June 4, IIT Bombay issued a notice to the fined student, following a disciplinary committee meeting on May 8 to address complaints about the play. The committee recommended the fine and barred the student from receiving any gymkhana awards. The Rs 1.2 lakh fine is due by July 20, 2024, and failure to pay could result in further penalties.

The notice was shared on social media by ‘IIT B for Bharat,’ a campus group that supports traditional Indian values. The group had protested against the play, claiming it misused academic freedom to ridicule Ram, Sita, and Laxman.

The fined students chose not to comment, but their peers confirmed the fines. One peer mentioned that the students had hoped to resolve the issue through discussion, but the penalty notice was leaked online.

Another associate described the play as a feminist reinterpretation of the Ramayana, with different character names and storylines. They noted that neither the audience nor the judges objected during the performance.

Eight students involved in the play have been penalized, including some who are graduating in July. Graduating students received heavier fines while continuing students faced lighter fines and hostel suspensions.

The play was performed at IIT Bombay’s open-air theatre on March 31. On April 8, ‘IIT B for Bharat’ criticized the play on social media, calling it a mockery of Ram and the Ramayana and sharing video clips as evidence.

IIT Bombay’s disciplinary committee has previously fined students for code of conduct violations, but officials did not comment on how they decide the amount of fines.

Source.

ALSO READ | Dead Frog in Balaji Wafers

Newsbeat

Slipper Thrown at PM Modi’s Car in Varanasi

Security Breach at PM Modi’s Roadshow in Varanasi: Slipper Thrown at Bulletproof Car

Varanasi, June 19, 2024 – A major security breach occurred today during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s roadshow in Varanasi when a slipper was hurled at his bulletproof car. The incident took place as the Prime Minister’s convoy made its way through a densely crowded area in the city.

A video capturing the moment has surfaced online, showing the slipper being thrown towards the convoy. The footage reveals the slipper narrowly missing the Prime Minister’s car, highlighting a lapse in the usually stringent security measures.

The roadshow, which was intended to be a celebratory event showcasing PM Modi’s stronghold in his constituency, quickly took a concerning turn. Security personnel immediately tightened the perimeter around the convoy and heightened their vigilance for the remainder of the event.

Local authorities have launched an investigation to identify the individual responsible for the breach. Initial reports suggest that the slipper was thrown from within the crowd that had gathered to catch a glimpse of the Prime Minister. Police are scrutinizing the video footage and interviewing witnesses to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the incident.

Photos and videos of the security breach have gone viral on social media platforms, sparking widespread discussion about the effectiveness of security protocols during high-profile public appearances. Many users expressed their concerns and demanded stricter measures to ensure the safety of the Prime Minister.

While no injuries were reported, the breach has raised questions about the vulnerabilities in the security arrangements for such events. Experts have pointed out that even with advanced security apparatus, the unpredictability of crowd behavior can pose significant challenges.

Political leaders and public figures have condemned the act, calling for a swift and thorough investigation. Home Minister Amit Shah released a statement saying, “Any threat to the safety of our Prime Minister is a matter of grave concern. We will ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”

The incident comes at a time when Varanasi, PM Modi’s constituency, is under intense political activity. The Prime Minister’s visit was aimed at rallying support and engaging with the local populace ahead of upcoming elections.

This security breach serves as a reminder of the constant threats faced by high-profile political figures and the need for ever-evolving security strategies to mitigate such risks. As investigations continue, the focus remains on enhancing the protective measures to prevent any future incidents.

ALSO READ | MP’s Daughter Hits Man with BMW, Gets Bail

Newsbeat

Dead Frog in Balaji Wafers

Dead Frog Found in Balaji Wafers Packet in Jamnagar, Prompts Investigation

A disturbing discovery in Jamnagar has led to an investigation by the Jamnagar Municipal Corporation (JMC). On Tuesday night, a resident, Jasmin Patel, found a dead frog inside a packet of Balaji wafers.

Patel reported that his nine-year-old niece purchased the packet from a nearby shop around 8 pm. After opening it at 10 pm and consuming some of the wafers, they discovered the fried frog inside the packet.

The JMC has taken swift action, summoning the local dealer to inspect all remaining packets from the same batch. This will help determine the extent of the issue and ensure no further contaminated products reach consumers.

Patel’s experience highlights the importance of food safety regulations and proper quality control measures. The JMC’s investigation will hopefully shed light on how this incident occurred and prevent similar situations in the future.

Source.

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Newsbeat

Karimnagar Bus Station: Lifetime Free Bus Pass for Baby Girl

TGSRTC has announced a special gift for a baby girl born at Karimnagar bus station – a lifetime free bus pass for travel on their buses.

Last Wednesday, a pregnant woman named Kumari arrived at Karimnagar bus station with her husband to catch a bus to Bhadrachalam. She unexpectedly went into labor at the station. Quick to respond, RTC staff called for an ambulance and their women staff stepped in to assist with the delivery right there at the station. Both mother and baby were later confirmed to be healthy at the hospital.

In recognition of their swift and compassionate actions, TGSRTC Managing Director VC Sajjanar and officials honored the staff involved – Syedamma, Lavanya, Sravanti, Bhavani, Renuka, Rajani Krishna, and Anjaiah.

This initiative continues TGSRTC’s tradition of granting lifetime free bus passes to children born at RTC buses and stations, aiming to support and celebrate such special births with practical assistance for the families involved.

Source.

ALSO READ | Karimnagar Gets Red-Light Cameras for Safety

Newsbeat

Hyderabad Man Kills Wife in Family Dispute

Hyderabad: Man Kills Wife Over Family Dispute in Tukaramgate

A man named Lakshman killed his wife, Roja, at their home in Tukaramgate, Secunderabad, after a fight on Tuesday night.

Lakshman and Roja had three children. Roja worked at an apparel store, while Lakshman did not have a job and often stayed idle.

On Tuesday, Lakshman came home drunk and started arguing with Roja. He then attacked her with a knife, which led to her death, according to Inspector Anjaneyulu from Tukaramgate.

The police arrived at the scene and took Roja’s body to the hospital for a postmortem examination. They mentioned that Lakshman often suspected his wife of being unfaithful and frequently argued with her. The police are currently searching for Lakshman, who is on the run.

Source.

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Newsbeat

MP’s Daughter Hits Man with BMW, Gets Bail

MP’s Daughter Drives BMW Over Sleeping Man, Gets Bail

Madhuri, the daughter of Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Rao of the YSR Congress Party, was involved in a tragic accident in Chennai.

Less than a month after a high-profile accident in Pune, Madhuri allegedly drove her BMW over a man sleeping on a pavement in Besant Nagar, Chennai. The man, 24-year-old Surya, a painter, died from his injuries. Madhuri has since been granted bail.

The incident occurred on Monday night while Madhuri was driving with a female friend. After the accident, Madhuri’s friend got out of the car and argued with the gathered crowd but left shortly after. Bystanders took Surya to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries.

Surya had been married for just eight months. His relatives and neighbors gathered at the J-5 Shastri Nagar Police Station, demanding justice. The police reviewed CCTV footage and found that the car belonged to the BMR (Beeda Masthan Rao) Group and was registered in Puducherry. Madhuri was arrested but was released on bail at the police station.

Beeda Masthan Rao, Madhuri’s father, became a Rajya Sabha MP in 2022 and has also served as an MLA. The BMR Group is well-known in the seafood industry.

Source.

ALSO READ | Guard Dies in Bengal Train Crash After Duty Swap

Newsbeat

Guard Dies in Bengal Train Crash After Duty Swap

Railway Guard Killed in Bengal Train Accident Had Swapped Duty to Spend Father’s Day with Daughter

Railway guard Ashish Dey had initially been scheduled to work on the Shatabdi Express. However, he swapped his shift to the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express so he could spend more time with his daughter on Father’s Day.

Tragically, at least 10 people were killed and 40 others injured when the Kanchanjunga Express collided with a goods train near New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal on Monday morning.

Passengers who survived the crash showed signs of trauma and relief, but the families of those who lost their lives were left heartbroken. Ashish Dey was among those who died in the accident.

Ashish’s family explained that he made the switch from the Shatabdi Express to the Kanchanjunga Express to be with his daughter, a college student in Kolkata, on Father’s Day. He spent Sunday with his wife and daughter at home, celebrating the occasion, unaware it would be his last time with them.

On a rainy Monday morning, Dey left his home to start his shift from New Jalpaiguri station. He boarded the Kanchanjunga Express as a guard from Siliguri, but within an hour and a half, the train met with a severe accident near Rangapani station, killing him instantly.

The news of his death devastated his family, who later received his body at their home.

Local councilor Tapas Chatterjee told India Today, “We are all shocked by his untimely death. Ashish loved to sing at various events in the neighborhood and had a good relationship with everyone. He was always seen smiling. We just can’t believe that our Ashish is no more.”

Source.

ALSO READ | IndiGo Chennai-Mumbai Flight Lands Safe After Bomb Threat

Newsbeat

IndiGo Chennai-Mumbai Flight Lands Safe After Bomb Threat

IndiGo Flight from Chennai Lands Safely After Receiving Bomb Threat

An IndiGo flight traveling from Chennai to Mumbai was forced to take precautionary measures after a bomb threat was received. The plane landed safely in Mumbai, where it was isolated for security checks before being cleared and returning to the terminal.

Thankfully, all passengers disembarked safely following standard protocol. IndiGo Airlines confirmed the incident and their cooperation with security agencies in a statement.

This incident comes after a separate bomb threat email targeted the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters in Mumbai on Tuesday. Thankfully, a thorough search by police revealed no suspicious items. Security measures have been increased at the airport in response to both threats.

Source.

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Newsbeat

DOST 2nd Phase: Commerce Top, 41K Seats Allotted

Commerce Remains the Most Popular Stream in DOST Second Phase Seat Allotment

Over 41,000 Students Secured Seats

The Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TSCHE) has announced the results of the second phase seat allotment for DOST 2024. A total of 41,533 students were allotted seats in various degree courses, with 7,039 students improving upon their seat allocation compared to the first phase.

Commerce Stream Dominates

Commerce remained the most sought-after stream, with 14,012 students receiving seats. Physical Sciences and Life Sciences followed closely behind with 9,727 and 8,791 seats allotted respectively.

Online Self-Reporting and Third Phase Schedule

Students who secured seats in the second phase must confirm their admission through online self-reporting on the DOST portal between June 19 and 26. A fee of Rs 500 or Rs 1000 (depending on the category) needs to be paid during this process. Failure to do so will result in the seat cancellation.

The registration window for the third phase of admissions will be open from June 19 to July 2. Students can submit their web options from June 19 to July 3. The allotted seats for the third phase will be declared on July 6.

Important Dates

Online Self-Reporting (Phase 2): June 19 – June 26
Registration (Phase 3): June 19 – July 2
Web Options (Phase 3): June 19 – July 3
Seat Allotment (Phase 3): July 6
Online Self-Reporting (Phase 3): July 7 – July 11
College Reporting (All Phases): July 8 – July 12
College Orientation: July 10 – July 12
Semester Commencement: July 15

ALSO, READ | Miyapur Boys Miss Top Ranks in TG Lawcet 2024

Newsbeat

Wells Fargo Fires Staff for Faking Work

American Bank, Wells Fargo, Fires Staff for Faking Work Activity

Dozens Terminated for Keyboard Simulation

American financial giant Wells Fargo fired over a dozen employees for allegedly faking work activity using keyboard simulation software. The terminations, reported by Bloomberg, affected staff within the bank’s wealth and investment management unit. Details regarding whether these employees were working from home at the time are unclear.

The firings were based on an investigation into claims of work falsification, according to disclosures filed by Wells Fargo with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. The bank emphasized its commitment to ethical conduct, stating through a spokesperson that “Wells Fargo holds employees to the highest standards and does not tolerate unethical behavior.”

Rise of Work-From-Home Monitoring

The COVID-19 pandemic spurred a surge in work-from-home arrangements, leading to the popularity of programs that mimic employee activity. These readily available and inexpensive tools, often called “mouse movers” or “mouse jigglers,” can be easily purchased online.

Return to Office in the Finance Industry

Many American financial firms, including banks, have begun transitioning employees back to full-time office work. Companies like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs have already implemented mandatory in-office schedules following the pandemic. While Wells Fargo was slower to adopt this approach, they introduced a “hybrid flexible model” in early 2022, gradually increasing in-office requirements. This model currently mandates a minimum of three days a week in the office for most employees, with management required for four days, and branch staff often working five days.

Incident Follows Prior Controversy

This recent termination case comes after a previous incident where Wells Fargo fired employees for alleged expense policy violations related to ineligible evening meal reimbursements.

ALSO READ | US Student Visas For Indians Hit Record, Expected Rise

Newsbeat

Miyapur Boys Miss Top Ranks in TG Lawcet 2024

TG Lawcet 2024 Rankers List: Top Ranks Missed for Miyapur Boys

While the Telangana Lawcet (LAWCET) 2024 results were declared yesterday (June 13), Miyapur boys missed securing a spot in the top 3 ranks for both 3-year and 5-year LLB programs.

Here’s a breakdown of the toppers:

LLB (3 years):
1st Rank: PGM Ambedkar (Hyderabad)
2nd Rank: S. Pratyush (Gachibowli)
3rd Rank: T. Naresh (Khammam)
LLB (5 years):
1st Rank: B. Sriram (Miyapur) – Not Top 3 (Ranks 2nd or 3rd not mentioned)
2nd Rank: P. Dinesh (Kamareddy)
3rd Rank: RP Vijayanandini (Malkajgiri)
The official press release did not disclose details on whether B. Sriram from Miyapur secured the exact 2nd position or ranked elsewhere within the top 10.

Further information regarding the complete top 10 rankers, specifically for Miyapur boys, is likely unavailable at this time.

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