Category: News

Bhubaneswar, July 6 ((UDN): More than 20 lakh names have been omitted from Odisha’s draft electoral roll following the completion of the first phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), resulting in a significant reduction in the state’s electorate ahead of the publication of the final voter list.

The draft electoral roll, released on Sunday, shows the total number of electors has declined from 3,33,99,591 in the pre-revision roll to 3,13,87,034, reflecting the deletion of around 20.14 lakh names after an extensive month-long verification drive.

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) R.S. Gopalan said the revised draft comprises 1,60,19,176 male voters, 1,53,65,083 female voters, and 2,775 third-gender electors. During the revision exercise, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) collected enumeration forms from nearly 3.13 crore electors, covering 93.97 per cent of the state’s electorate.

According to the Election Commission, the revision identified 8.32 lakh deceased voters, while 10.07 lakh electors were found to have either shifted their residence or remained untraceable during the house-to-house verification. Another 1.58 lakh voters were found to have multiple registrations, and around 14,000 electors were excluded for failing to submit their enumeration forms within the stipulated deadline.

Election officials said the exercise was aimed at improving the accuracy of the electoral roll by removing duplicate, deceased and ineligible entries while ensuring that only eligible voters remain on the rolls.

The Commission clarified that the publication of the draft electoral roll does not mark the end of the revision process. Eligible voters whose names are missing can submit claims for inclusion, while objections regarding entries in the draft can be filed during the claims and objections period from July 5 to August 4. Voters with multiple registrations will be retained at only one location after due verification.

The CEO said the verification exercise was carried out by 31 District Election Officers, 147 Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), 994 Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), 4,540 BLO Supervisors, and BLOs deployed across 45,250 polling stations. Representatives of all seven recognised political parties also participated in the process through more than 84,000 Booth Level Agents (BLAs).

Hearings on claims and objections will continue until September 2, while the final electoral roll is scheduled to be published on September 6.

The Election Commission has urged all eligible citizens, particularly those who have attained the age of 18 years on or before July 1, 2026, to register as voters by submitting Form 6 either through their local BLO or online. Electors can verify their names in the draft roll through the ECINET mobile application, the Voters’ Portal, the Odisha CEO’s website, or by contacting their respective BLOs.

Reiterating its commitment to a fair and transparent revision process, the Election Commission stated that no voter’s name will be permanently deleted without following the prescribed legal procedure. Any person aggrieved by deletion of their name can seek redress through the designated electoral authorities under the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.

Bhubaneswar, July 6 (UDN): The Odisha Government has intensified flood monitoring measures as water levels continue to rise in the Mahanadi, Bansadhara and Baitarani rivers following incessant rainfall across the state and heavy inflows from upstream catchment areas.

Representational image

The situation is particularly critical in the Mahanadi basin, where the Hirakud Dam has recorded a sharp increase in inflow over the past 24 hours due to widespread rainfall in Chhattisgarh and western Odisha. To regulate the reservoir level, dam authorities have been releasing floodwater through multiple sluice gates in a phased manner. The discharge is being closely monitored at the Mundali barrage near Cuttack to assess its downstream impact.

In southern Odisha, the Bansadhara River has crossed the danger mark at Kasinagar in Gajapati district, raising concerns over possible inundation of low-lying villages along its banks.

Similarly, the Baitarani River is flowing above the danger level at Akhuapada in Bhadrak district, resulting in flooding of adjoining agricultural land and low-lying areas. Water Resources Department officials are maintaining round-the-clock surveillance as the river continues to swell.

In view of the evolving situation, the State Government has placed district administrations across vulnerable river basins on high alert. Authorities in Sambalpur, Subarnapur (Sonepur), Nayagarh, Cuttack, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapada, Jajpur and Bhadrak have been directed to remain prepared for any flood-related emergency. District Collectors are coordinating with the State Emergency Operation Centre to monitor river conditions and ensure prompt response wherever required.

Officials have advised residents living in low-lying and riverside areas to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into swollen rivers. People have also been urged to keep livestock away from embankments, closely follow official advisories, and cooperate with local authorities in case evacuation becomes necessary.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall over several parts of Odisha under the influence of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, prompting authorities to closely watch the flood situation over the coming days.

New Delhi, July 6: Global crude oil prices declined by up to 1 per cent in early trade after OPEC+ members agreed to increase production targets for August, adding fresh supply expectations to an already cautious market.

The decision by the oil-producing alliance has eased supply concerns, leading to a softening of benchmark crude prices as traders reacted to the prospect of higher output in the coming month. Market participants are closely monitoring the move amid ongoing volatility in global energy markets.

Analysts suggest that the price decline reflects short-term sentiment driven by supply-side adjustments, even as demand outlook remains influenced by global economic conditions, inflation trends, and geopolitical developments.

Energy experts note that OPEC+ production decisions continue to play a key role in shaping crude price movements, with markets highly sensitive to changes in output policy.

The latest development underscores the delicate balance between supply management and market stability as global economies navigate fluctuating energy demand and price pressures.

Traders and investors are expected to keep a close watch on upcoming economic indicators and OPEC+ policy signals for further direction in crude oil prices.

Bhubaneswar, July 6 (UDN): The resignation of Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jagmohan Meena has drawn significant attention, making him one of the latest young Indian Police Service (IPS) officers to step away from the force in recent years.

A 2013-batch IPS officer of the Odisha cadre, Meena has submitted his resignation to the Odisha Government, citing personal reasons. While the government is yet to formally accept his resignation, sources indicate that he may be considering opportunities outside government service. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding his future plans.

Meena’s exit comes after a relatively short tenure as Bhubaneswar DCP, a position he assumed in February 2025. During his service, he was widely recognised for his proactive policing initiatives, emphasis on public engagement, and efforts to strengthen crime investigation and law enforcement in the state capital. Prior to his current assignment, he served as Superintendent of Police in Angul and Ganjam districts and as DCP of the Cuttack Urban Police District.

His resignation has triggered widespread discussion within administrative and public circles, with many expressing surprise over the decision of a relatively young officer holding one of Odisha’s most important policing assignments. While speculation over his future has surfaced on social media, Meena has publicly maintained that his decision is based on personal reasons.

The development also comes amid a broader trend of young IPS officers opting to leave the service before completing a full career.

Earlier, former Bihar cadre IPS officer Kamya Mishra, who earned the nickname “Lady Singham” for her policing style, resigned citing personal and family reasons. Her resignation was subsequently accepted by the competent authority.

Similarly, Siddharth Kaushal, an IPS officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, sought voluntary retirement, stating that his decision was driven by personal aspirations and long-term career goals. He had also dismissed speculation linking his exit to any external or administrative pressure.

Although each resignation has been attributed to individual circumstances, the departure of several young IPS officers from the service has reignited discussions on career choices, work-life balance, and the evolving aspirations of officers in India’s premier civil services.

The Odisha Government has not yet issued an official statement on Meena’s resignation or announced his successor as Bhubaneswar DCP.

Guwahati, July 6: In a significant move aimed at promoting rural entrepreneurship and improving the ease of doing business, the Assam government has introduced a special provision allowing rural youth to utilise agricultural land for select non-agricultural economic activities, subject to regulatory permissions.

The initiative is designed to encourage self-employment, startup development, and local enterprise creation in rural areas, while ensuring that land use changes are carried out in a regulated and sustainable manner.

Officials stated that the policy aims to unlock economic potential in villages by enabling young entrepreneurs to set up small-scale ventures, agri-based industries, and allied activities closer to their communities. The move is expected to reduce migration pressure to urban centres and create local employment opportunities.

The government has emphasised that all activities under this provision will remain subject to applicable land use norms, environmental safeguards, and administrative approvals to ensure balanced development and protection of agricultural interests.

State authorities believe the reform will strengthen Assam’s ease of doing business framework by simplifying access to resources for rural youth and encouraging innovation at the grassroots level.

Further guidelines and implementation details are expected to be issued by the concerned departments in a phased manner.

July 6, 2026: The ongoing Amarnath Yatra 2026 has witnessed an overwhelming response from devotees, with more than 56,000 pilgrims completing darshan within the first three days, reflecting strong faith and devotion among participants.

Authorities reported a heavy influx of pilgrims on both traditional routes, leading to increased crowd density and movement pressure along key transit points. Despite the surge, the yatra is progressing in a well-coordinated manner under tight security and administrative supervision.

Security forces, along with disaster management teams and medical support units, have been deployed along the pilgrimage routes to ensure the safety, health, and smooth movement of devotees. Officials are closely monitoring weather and track conditions to manage the flow of pilgrims efficiently.

The administration has urged pilgrims to follow scheduled guidelines, maintain discipline during the journey, and cooperate with on-ground personnel to ensure a safe and orderly pilgrimage experience.

The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board continues to oversee arrangements, focusing on crowd management, medical assistance, and essential facilities along the route.

Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to providing a secure and well-organised Yatra, ensuring that devotees can complete the sacred pilgrimage without inconvenience.

Mumbai, July 6: Torrential monsoon rains lashed Mumbai on Monday, severely disrupting normal life across the city as waterlogging, traffic congestion, and transport delays affected thousands of residents. Authorities remained on high alert as heavy rainfall continued across several parts of the financial capital.

Suburban rail services, considered Mumbai’s lifeline, were impacted on multiple routes due to water accumulation on tracks and reduced visibility. Commuters faced delays and disruptions during the morning rush, while several roads were either closed or witnessed slow-moving traffic because of flooding.

In view of the adverse weather conditions, Mumbai University postponed scheduled examinations to ensure the safety of students and staff. Fresh examination dates are expected to be announced through official channels.

The iconic Mumbai Dabbawalas also suspended their lunchbox delivery services for the day, citing safety concerns and challenging commuting conditions. The temporary suspension reflects the severity of the weather, as the century-old delivery network rarely halts its operations.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised residents to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated with official weather alerts. Civic authorities are monitoring vulnerable areas, while emergency teams have been deployed to respond to incidents of flooding, fallen trees, and waterlogging.

Citizens have been urged to cooperate with local authorities and follow safety advisories until weather conditions improve.

July 6, 2026: Tibetans and millions of followers across the world celebrated the 91st birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on Monday, paying tribute to the revered spiritual leader’s lifelong commitment to peace, compassion, non-violence, and universal human values.

The occasion was marked by prayer ceremonies, cultural programmes, and community gatherings in Dharamshala and Tibetan settlements across the globe. Devotees, monks, dignitaries, and well-wishers came together to honour the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, whose teachings have inspired generations to embrace dialogue, tolerance, and harmony.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to the Dalai Lama, describing his message of peace, compassion, patience, and harmony as a guiding light for millions around the world. In his birthday message, the Prime Minister wished the Tibetan spiritual leader good health, happiness, and a long life, while acknowledging his profound contribution to promoting global understanding and coexistence.

Widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost spiritual leaders, the Dalai Lama has spent decades advocating non-violence, interfaith harmony, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. His teachings continue to resonate across cultures and national boundaries, inspiring people to cultivate kindness, empathy, and mutual respect.

The 91st birthday celebrations served as a reminder of the Dalai Lama’s enduring influence and the universal appeal of his vision for a more peaceful and compassionate world.

Bhubaneswar, July 6 (UDN): Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Bhubaneswar, Jagmohan Meena has submitted his resignation to the Odisha Government, citing personal reasons, according to official sources.

Meena, a 2013-batch IPS officer of the Odisha cadre, recently tendered his resignation. The State Government is yet to take a final decision on accepting it.

While the reasons behind his resignation have not been officially disclosed, sources indicated that Meena may be exploring opportunities outside government service. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding his future plans.

Jagmohan Meena took charge as the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar, on February 28, 2025. During his tenure in the Odisha Police, he held several key assignments, including Superintendent of Police in Angul and Ganjam districts. He also served as Deputy Commissioner of Police in the Cuttack Urban Police District, where he handled a range of law-and-order and policing responsibilities.

His resignation has come as a surprise within police and administrative circles, particularly as the Commissionerate Police has recently been facing increased public scrutiny over the handling of several high-profile criminal incidents, including the broad daylight murder of Railway Protection Force constable Soumya Ranjan Swain in the Balianta area.

No official statement has yet been issued by the Odisha Government or the Commissionerate Police regarding Meena’s resignation or the appointment of his successor.

July 4: Heavy rainfall across several parts of Maharashtra has led to widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions, affecting normal life in multiple regions of the state.

Continuous downpours have inundated low-lying areas, causing inconvenience to commuters and slowing vehicular movement in major cities and towns. Traffic congestion was reported on key roads as water accumulated in several stretches.

Local authorities have been deployed to manage the situation, with civic teams working to clear waterlogged areas and restore normal traffic flow. Emergency response measures have been activated in vulnerable locations to address rain-related disruptions.

Officials are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with disaster management teams to ensure public safety. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain cautious in affected areas.