Category Archives: government

Mumbai: NGT-Ordered Committee Finds Ashapura Meinchem Limited Guilty Of Severe Environmental Violations In Ratnagiri, Recommends Crores In Fines

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**Mumbai: National Green Tribunal Committee Highlights Severe Environmental Violations by Ashapura Meinchem Ltd. in Ratnagiri**

A committee constituted under the orders of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has released a report exposing major environmental violations committed by Ashapura Meinchem Ltd., a mining company operating in Rowle village, Ratnagiri. The investigation was initiated following a complaint lodged by Bhavesh Karekar, an engineer-turned-agriculturalist, who accused the company of illegal bauxite mining and causing significant environmental degradation in the area.

### Complaint Details

Bhavesh Karekar raised serious concerns about the company’s unregulated excavation activities, including:

– Illegal mining operations without the required permissions or No Objection Certificates (NOCs)
– Haphazard mining and crushing activities leading to severe environmental damage
– Depletion and contamination of groundwater resources in surrounding areas
– Uncontrolled air pollution due to mining without proper air quality monitoring
– Failure to conduct mandated plantation drives in the affected zones
– Damage to public roads caused by overloading of transport vehicles
– Significant structural damage to a public bridge over the Barja River, a critical evacuation route for mined materials
– Night-time mining operations, violating existing regulations

### Committee Findings

The committee’s report corroborated many of Karekar’s allegations and found that Ashapura Meinchem Ltd. had obtained Environmental Clearance (EC) based solely on subsurface mining rights for 228 hectares. However, the company did not hold agreements for surface rights over all the land involved.

Additionally, the report noted the company’s failure to adhere to conditions related to:

– Tree plantation requirements
– Mineral transportation protocols
– Operation of stone crushers without acquiring necessary consents from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB)

### Concerns Regarding Infrastructure

The investigation also raised alarms about the Barja River bridge, which currently shows visible cracks and has limited load-bearing capacity. The committee recommended that the Public Works Department (PWD) and Regional Transport Office (RTO) conduct a thorough safety audit of the bridge. Until the audit is completed, the transportation of minerals via this bridge should be suspended to prevent further damage or potential accidents.

### Recommended Actions

The committee suggested strict punitive measures against Ashapura Meinchem Ltd. for non-compliance, including:

– Installation of CCTV cameras to closely monitor mining activities
– Maintenance and repair of public roads at the company’s expense, following the Polluter Pays Principle

### Environmental Compensation

Based on its findings, the committee recommended imposing substantial environmental compensation fees on the company, including:

– Rs. 1,74,60,000 for violations related to environmental regulations, such as insufficient tree plantation and illegal mining operations
– Rs. 26,73,600 for unauthorized groundwater extraction without obtaining the necessary NOC from the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA)

—

This report underscores the urgent need for stricter regulatory oversight and stringent enforcement of environmental laws to curb illegal mining activities and protect the fragile ecosystem of Ratnagiri.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-ngt-ordered-committee-finds-ashapura-meinchem-limited-guilty-of-severe-environmental-violations-in-ratnagiri-recommends-crores-in-fines

Man with No Medical Expertise Gives Pregnant Women Pain Advice

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This week, Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz discuss how Donald Trump is using the powerful mechanisms of government prosecution to reverse-engineer crimes supposedly committed by his enemies. They also cover his diatribe against Tylenol at the disastrous press conference on autism, as well as the echoes of past Red Scares in today’s free speech climate.

Joining the conversation is historian Beverly Gage, author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning *G-Man: J. Edgar Hoover and the Making of the American Century*, who provides insight into these historical parallels.

—

### Notes and References from This Week’s Show

– Alan Feuer, Glenn Thrush, Maggie Haberman, and Devlin Barrett: *Trump’s DOJ Shut It Down*
– Paul Rosenzweig for *The Atlantic*: *A Most Profound Transgression*
– Andrew McCarthy for *National Review*: *Trump Proves to Be His Own Worst Enemy on Push for Payback Probes*
– David Frum for *The Atlantic*: *Trump Might Be Losing His Race Against Time*
– Lena H. Sun and Dan Diamond for *The Washington Post*: *Trump’s Escalating Attacks on Vaccines Shock Public Health Leaders*
– Megan Messerly, Tim Rohn, Dasha Burns, and Carmen Paun for *Politico*: *Trump’s Tylenol Diatribe Was Rooted in Frustration*
– Arthur L. Caplan for *STAT*: *Trump’s Antifa Executive Order Is Dangerously Vague*
– Ezra Klein for *The New York Times* (Opinion, *The Ezra Klein Show*): *Trump Is Building the Blue Scare*
– Renee DiResta and Clay Risen for *The Lawfare Podcast*: *Lawfare Daily: McCarthyism and Its Echoes in Modern Politics* (audio, 43 mins)

—

### This Week’s Chatters

– **Emily:**
– Oliver Milman for *The Guardian*: “Hundreds plunge in Chicago River for first official swim in nearly 100 years”
– Chris Bentley for *WBUR*: “Swimmers race in the Chicago River for first time in nearly 100 years”

– **John:**
– *HGTV Magazine*: “Here’s the Story desk: Military intelligence: Ukraine hits drone factory in Russia’s Tatarstan”

—

### Slate Plus Bonus Episode

For this week’s Slate Plus bonus episode, Emily, John, and David discuss the debate around Trump’s new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa workers. Will it score points or be an own goal for U.S. jobs? Tune in to hear their insights.

—

### Gabfest Reads

In the latest Gabfest Reads, Emily talks with author and Yale professor Judith Resnik about her new book *Impermissible Punishments: How Prison Became a Problem for Democracy*. Their discussion explores the history of the prison system’s use of punishments like whipping, how the practice came to an end, and more.

—

### Contact Us

Email your chatters, questions, and comments to gabfest@slate.com. (Messages may be referenced by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.)

—

**Podcast production by:** Cheyna Roth
**Research by:** Emily Ditto

You can find the full Political Gabfest show pages [here](https://slate.com/political-gabfest).
https://slate.com/podcasts/political-gabfest/2025/09/politics-trump-and-rfk-jr-push-false-harmful-narratives-about-autism-and-tylenol?via=rss

MP Human Rights Commission To Remain Vacant After Acting Chairman Rajiv Tandon’s Tenure Ends On September 26

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**Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): MP Human Rights Commission Faces Vacancy Amid Growing Backlog**

The Madhya Pradesh Human Rights Commission (MPHRC) will have no members available to hear public grievances starting Saturday, as the tenure of acting chairman Rajiv Tandon ends on Friday. The post of chairman has remained vacant for an extended period, and with no members currently in the commission, public complaints risk going unheard.

In response to this situation, the state government has scheduled a meeting at 4 pm on September 29 to discuss new appointments to the commission. A committee responsible for these appointments includes the Chief Minister, Home Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and the Speaker. This committee will consider the appointment of the new chairman as well as two additional members.

Sources indicate that AP Singh, the Principal Secretary of the Vidhan Sabha, is a leading candidate for one of the commission’s member positions. Singh’s tenure at the Vidhan Sabha ends on September 30, and since he is not receiving an extension, he may be appointed to the Human Rights Commission.

While the committee may select the chairman and two members, the final number of appointments will depend on the committee’s decisions.

**Over 4,600 Complaints Pending**

The MP Human Rights Commission currently has over 4,600 pending complaints. Since the end of Manohar Mamtani’s tenure as chairman, no successor has been appointed. Rajiv Tandon, initially a member of the commission, was designated as acting chairman, but with him being the sole commission member, the backlog of cases has continued to grow.

The upcoming appointments are crucial to ensure that public grievances are addressed promptly and effectively by the MPHRC.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-human-rights-commission-to-remain-vacant-after-acting-chairman-rajiv-tandons-tenure-ends-on-september-26

UP CM Yogi Adityanath’s Mission Shakti Empowers 1.91 Lakh Students Through Bank Visits

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Lucknow: The fifth phase of Mission Shakti for the year 2025-26, dedicated to the safety, dignity, and self-reliance of women and girls, created history on Thursday. Under the campaign inaugurated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on September 20, as many as 1.91 lakh students of classes 6 to 8 from Parishadiya schools and Kasturba Gandhi Residential Girls’ Schools visited bank branches across Uttar Pradesh.

The initiative was more than just an educational visit. It served as a strong foundation for the future economic self-reliance of young girls, where students were introduced to the nuances of banking systems, financial services, and digital banking. The primary aim of the program was to familiarize them with savings, banking processes, and digital services.

During the visits, students learned the process of opening a bank account, the use of passbooks, chequebooks, and ATM cards. They also practiced filling deposit and withdrawal slips and experienced digital tools like mobile banking, UPI, and internet banking.

Focus on Savings and Investment

Special emphasis was laid on savings and investment schemes, helping students understand how small savings can lead to significant benefits in the future. Bank officials introduced them to basic investment options such as fixed deposits and recurring deposits.

Additionally, students were guided on financial security and online safety measures to conduct transactions responsibly.

Girls Show Enthusiasm and Curiosity

The visits were marked by the enthusiasm of the students, who actively interacted with bank officials. They asked questions with curiosity, which were patiently answered in simple language by the officials.

This exposure not only enriched their knowledge but also enhanced their confidence.

Key Learnings from the Visits

  • The process of opening a savings account and the required documents.
  • How to use a passbook, chequebook, and ATM card.
  • The procedure of filling deposit and withdrawal slips and the system of financial transactions.
  • Working of digital services such as mobile banking, UPI, and internet banking.
  • Importance and long-term benefits of savings and investment schemes.
  • Awareness about online fraud and precautions for ATM safety.

“During the auspicious days of Navratri, the bank visits by 1.91 lakh girls should not be seen merely as an activity. It is the foundation of tomorrow’s journey of economic empowerment for women. The aim of Mission Shakti is to provide daughters not only with knowledge but also with the power of self-reliance, and this initiative is a historic step in that direction.”

— Monika Rani, Director General, School Education

https://www.freepressjournal.in/uttar-pradesh/up-cm-yogi-adityanaths-mission-shakti-empowers-191-lakh-students-through-bank-visits

Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav Says Caste Is Emotional Connect, Accuses BJP Of Fearing PDA Unity – VIDEO

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**Akhilesh Yadav Emphasizes Caste as Emotional Connect, Criticizes BJP Government in Uttar Pradesh**

*Lucknow:* Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday underscored caste as an emotional connection for backward communities, highlighting that reservation was granted on this basis. Referring to the Mandal Commission, he noted that it clearly stated backward classes are entitled to reservation due to caste-based discrimination.

Addressing a press conference at the SP office in Lucknow, Yadav criticized the Yogi Adityanath government’s recent order that caste should not be mentioned in FIRs, arrest warrants, or any official documents. He remarked, “The Harijan Act itself is based on caste. Action should be taken against those who purified houses with Ganga water because Dalits had entered them. I went to a temple where the priest allowed me, but BJP people still got the temple washed. They should explain why.”

Yadav claimed that the BJP is unsettled by the growing unity of PDA (Pichhde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) communities. “Ever since we released data on the representation of PDA in different departments, BJP has panicked and started humiliating people. Today, PDA trusts the Samajwadi Party,” he added.

Highlighting corruption, the SP president alleged that the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh has broken all records. “Even legislators are admitting on stage that there is a ten percent commission, but they do not speak further. Instead, they are distracting people with talk of cream, powder, and shampoo. We will also go to the market. The truth is that discussions are only with those making huge profits,” Yadav said.

On the occasion, Yadav welcomed several leaders into the Samajwadi Party, including Sudhir Chauhan, former MLA Chaudhary Amar Singh, Vidyasagar, and Lalji Bharti, who joined after leaving the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

Further, Yadav accused the BJP of conspiring against farmers by forcibly acquiring their land. “This government grabs land by ignoring laws, creating pressure, filing false cases, and cheating farmers. Development cannot come at the cost of injustice to farmers. When our government comes, compensation will be given by increasing the circle rate,” he declared.

Yadav’s sharp remarks come at a time when the Samajwadi Party is seeking to build momentum for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. By repeatedly invoking PDA, he is positioning himself as the political voice of backward castes, Dalits, and minorities, aiming to counter the BJP’s consolidation of upper castes and non-Yadav OBCs.

Analysts say Yadav’s emphasis on caste as an “emotional connect” signals a return to Mandal-era politics, which could energize the SP’s traditional base. His criticism of corruption and land acquisition is also aimed at appealing to farmers and small traders, sections that have shown signs of discontent with the ruling BJP.

With new leaders from the BSP joining the SP, Yadav is also attempting to broaden his party’s social coalition. The challenge, however, remains whether the SP can translate this strategy into a statewide narrative that resonates beyond its core support base.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/samajwadi-party-chief-akhilesh-yadav-says-caste-is-emotional-connect-accuses-bjp-of-fearing-pda-unity-video

NASA to stop a $500M spacecraft from crashing to Earth

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**NASA to Stop $500 Million Spacecraft from Crashing to Earth**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 25, 2025, 11:03 AM*

NASA has awarded a $30 million contract to Katalyst Space Technologies, an Arizona-based startup, to prevent the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory (also known as SWIFT) from falling back into Earth’s atmosphere.

The $500 million spacecraft, which has been studying distant galaxies and black holes since 2004, is currently in low-Earth orbit. However, its orbit is gradually decaying due to atmospheric drag, putting it at risk of burning up upon re-entry. NASA estimates there is a 90% chance SWIFT will disintegrate in Earth’s atmosphere by late 2026 if no action is taken.

### Mission Details

Katalyst Space Technologies plans to launch a modified version of its “Link” spacecraft to rendezvous with the observatory and push it into a higher orbit. This mission serves as a critical test of space-docking technology, which has important implications for military operations and satellite maintenance.

Notably, SWIFT does not have an onboard propulsion system or attachment points for docking. To overcome this, Katalyst’s Link craft will feature a tailored robotic mechanism designed to pinch small metal rims on the observatory, securing a firm grip for the orbital boost.

### Service Strategy

Originally, Link was intended for an internal demonstration mission. However, after studying detailed designs of SWIFT, Katalyst will modify the spacecraft starting next month, aiming for a launch in May 2026.

Once in orbit near the observatory, Link will engage its robotic arm to attach to SWIFT and execute the maneuver that will extend the telescope’s operational life.

### Military Implications

The mission also carries significant military interest. Katalyst CEO Ghonhee Lee told Reuters that the success of this operation will demonstrate that any satellite can be serviced, even those lacking a launch adapter ring.

The Pentagon is closely monitoring the mission’s progress. Lee expressed hopes to collaborate with the U.S. Space Command on additional orbital maneuvering capabilities. This highlights the growing strategic importance of space-docking technologies amid escalating geopolitical competition, especially between the United States and China.

—

This innovative mission not only aims to save a valuable scientific asset but also marks a milestone in satellite servicing and space technology with broad civilian and defense applications.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/nasa-enlists-start-up-to-rescue-500m-spacecraft-in-orbit/story

Ukraine restores diplomatic relations with Syria, Zelensky says

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**Ukraine Restores Diplomatic Relations with Syria, President Zelensky Announces**

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the restoration of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Syria.

In 2022, Ukraine severed ties with Syria after the ousted Syrian leader, Bashar al-Assad’s government, recognized large areas of Russian-occupied Ukraine as “independent” regions backed by Russia. This recognition led to a significant diplomatic rift between the two countries.

President Zelensky made the announcement during a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace in Rome, Italy, on July 9, 2025.

The restoration of diplomatic relations marks a notable shift in Ukraine’s foreign policy amid ongoing regional tensions. Further details on the implications of this decision are expected in the coming days.
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868489

Mumbai News: Andheri Resident Alleges Housing Society Failed To Refund ₹3.09 Lakh Despite Deputy Registrar Orders

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**Resident Alleges Housing Society’s Non-Compliance Over Rs 3.09 Lakh Refund**

A 62-year-old resident of Metropolis CHS, Four Bungalows, Andheri (West), has raised concerns that his housing society has failed to comply with orders directing it to refund or adjust a pending amount of Rs 3.09 lakh in his favour.

**Complaint by Resident**

Ashwin Chaudhary, a cybersecurity professional and owner of flat C-101 in Metropolis CHS, filed a complaint alleging that despite orders issued in March this year, the society has neither refunded the money nor adjusted it against his monthly expenses such as maintenance charges, property tax, and utility bills.

**Background of the Case**

Citing a Bombay High Court order dated June 14, 2017, Chaudhary explained that the court had directed the society to refund amounts collected from members by the builder, HDIL.

Following this, the society issued him a credit note for Rs 3.63 lakh in August 2018 and then a cheque for Rs 3.09 lakh in January 2019. However, the cheque was dishonoured due to a signature mismatch.

Subsequently, the deputy registrar instructed the society to adjust the amount against Chaudhary’s pending dues.

**Allegations of Non-Compliance**

“Despite several reminders and repeated emails since 2021, the society has refused to comply. Instead, they blocked my family’s access to the gym, swimming pool, and other amenities, labelling me a defaulter,” Chaudhary alleged.

He further added that the society was ordered to credit his account and remove the 21% interest and GST charges that had been wrongly applied.

**Society’s Response**

When contacted, society chairman Kamal Duggar acknowledged the matter but stated that the society currently has no funds to pay Chaudhary or others.

He admitted that the issue dates back to 2017–18 when the society’s accounts were operated through Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank, which later collapsed in 2020.

“Our society lost nearly Rs 15 crore in the PMC Bank crisis, including funds belonging to 161 members. Given the situation, the new administration decided to grant a rebate of Rs 1,500 per month on maintenance charges to affected members,” Duggar explained.

“Beyond that, we have no means to repay unless the bank releases the funds. We have also asked the authorities for guidance and are committed to abiding by their directions,” he added.

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This ongoing dispute highlights the financial challenges faced by housing societies impacted by banking failures, and the difficulties members are encountering in securing rightful refunds.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-news-andheri-resident-alleges-housing-society-failed-to-refund-309-lakh-despite-deputy-registrar-orders

‘Consumers Who Have Not Received GST Rate Cut Benefits Can Register Complaints On Toll-Free Number’: CBIC

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New Delhi: The government on Tuesday announced that consumers who have not received the benefits of the recent GST rate cut can register their complaints through multiple channels.

According to a FAQ released by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), aggrieved customers can contact the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) via the toll-free number 1915 or through WhatsApp at 8800001915. Additionally, complaints and queries can be submitted on the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) portal.

Effective September 22, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure was simplified into a two-tier system of 5% and 18%. The earlier rates of 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% have now been merged into just two rates—5% and 18%—resulting in reduced prices for approximately 99% of daily use items.

While the anti-profiteering mechanism has yet to be enabled for complaints related to profiteering, the government has been actively monitoring prices. Several companies have voluntarily announced that they are passing on the tax cut benefits by lowering prices.

However, complaints have surfaced on social media, alleging that some businesses are not passing on the benefits of the GST rate cut to consumers.

Consumers who wish to report such issues are encouraged to use the helpline numbers or the INGRAM portal to ensure their grievances are addressed promptly.

*Disclaimer: This story is from a syndicated feed. Nothing has changed except the headline.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/consumers-who-have-not-received-gst-rate-cut-benefits-can-register-complaints-on-toll-free-number-cbic

‘Consumers Who Have Not Received GST Rate Cut Benefits Can Register Complaints On Toll-Free Number’: CBIC

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New Delhi: The government on Tuesday announced that consumers who have not received the benefits of the GST rate cut can register their complaints through multiple channels.

According to a FAQ released by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), aggrieved customers can contact the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) via the toll-free number 1915 or through WhatsApp at 8800001915. Additionally, complaints and queries can be registered on the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) portal.

Effective September 22, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure was simplified into a two-tier system of 5% and 18%. The previous rates of 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% have been merged into these two slabs, leading to reduced prices for 99% of daily use items.

While the anti-profiteering mechanism has not yet been activated for complaints related to profiteering, the government has been closely monitoring pricing trends. Several companies have voluntarily confirmed that they are passing on the benefits of the tax cut by lowering prices.

However, complaints have started emerging on social media alleging that some businesses are not passing on the GST rate cut benefits to consumers.

*Disclaimer: This story is from a syndicated feed. No changes have been made except to the headline.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/consumers-who-have-not-received-gst-rate-cut-benefits-can-register-complaints-on-toll-free-number-cbic