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LDF Rift Widens: CPI Under Extreme Pressure After Pinarayi Govt Ignores Protests, Secretly Signs ‘PM SHRI’ Pact for Central Funds

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LDF Rift Widens: CPI Under Extreme Pressure After Pinarayi Govt Ignores Protests, Secretly Signs ‘PM SHRI’ Pact for Central Funds

Thiruvananthapuram: Following CPM State Secretary M.V. Govindan’s public dismissal of their relevance—asking “What CPI?”—the CPI leadership, particularly State Secretary Binoy Viswam, is now reeling under immense pressure after the Kerala government unilaterally signed the agreement for the Central Government’s ‘PM SHRI’ education scheme.

Despite the CPI leadership’s assurances to its cadre that they would strongly protest the move and directly communicate their disagreement to the Chief Minister, there is internal confusion regarding how far the party can push back. Leaders fear that heading into the upcoming local body and assembly elections as a party marginalized within the ruling front will severely damage their electoral prospects. Binoy Viswam’s initial reaction, “If the news about signing the PM SHRI agreement is true,” itself underscores the shock and surprise within the CPI leadership.

Betrayal and Secrecy

The failure to honor the assurance given by CPM General Secretary M.A. Baby that the issue would be discussed within the LDF has fueled deep resentment within the CPI. While the CPI believed the issue would be taken up by the LDF convener and the CPM General Secretary, the government was secretly accelerating negotiations in Delhi.

For the past two days, a team including the Public Education Secretary was reportedly camping in Delhi for urgent meetings with Central officials regarding PM SHRI. Crucially, the government and the CPM kept the CPI completely in the dark about these critical developments.

National Education Policy at Stake

The CPI state leadership, which had emphatically asserted in its State Council meetings that they would never allow the implementation of PM SHRI and the National Education Policy (NEP), is now placed in a difficult position. Previous criticisms from the CPI cadre regarding the party’s capitulation to the CPM on issues like the Thrissur Pooram disruption and the ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar controversy were countered by citing the firm stand taken against PM SHRI. With the government signing the PM SHRI MoU, the CPI’s defense has collapsed, leaving the state leadership facing difficult questions.

The CPI has consistently rejected the Education Minister’s and the government’s argument that they can secure the PM SHRI funds without fully implementing the NEP. The scheme’s document explicitly states that the agreement mandates the full implementation of all provisions of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as the first condition of the MoU between the State and the Centre. The CPI questioned the practicality of the Education Minister’s claim that they would implement the provisions only partially.

The CPI maintains that accepting this policy undermines the protests and national efforts by Left parties against the NEP. However, as the CPM and the government prioritize securing the pending Central funds, sacrificing their political stance, the critical question remains: how effectively can the CPI mount a sustainable resistance?

No More ‘Data Not Available’: State Information Commission Warns Against Denying RTI Queries, Holds Office Heads Responsible

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No More ‘Data Not Available’: State Information Commission Warns Against Denying RTI Queries, Holds Office Heads Responsible

Thrissur: The Kerala State Information Commissioner, Dr. K. M. Dileep, has issued a strict warning against public offices that deny Right to Information (RTI) applications using the common pretexts of ‘information not available’ or ‘data not compiled.’ He emphatically stated that the responsibility of maintaining files in an organized manner for timely public access lies squarely with the Office Head.

Speaking after an RTI Commission sitting at the Collectorate Conference Hall, Dr. Dileep announced that stringent action would be initiated against Office Heads who attempt to deny information based on these unacceptable excuses.

Dr. Dileep stressed that knowledge of the RTI Act is not limited to the Public Information Officer (PIO) alone; it is mandatory for all officials handling files. He reiterated that citizens have a right to receive information in a time-bound manner, and data must be provided within the provisions of the law. He warned that disciplinary action would be taken against officials who fail to comply.

During the sitting, the Commission considered 30 cases related to various departments, including Revenue, Police, Local Self-Government, PWD, KSEB, and Devaswom. Out of these, 26 cases were disposed of, with four postponed for the next sitting.

Setback for Mohanlal and Kerala Govt: High Court Quashes Order Legalizing Actor’s Ivory Possession in Elephant Tusk Case

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Setback for Mohanlal and Kerala Govt: High Court Quashes Order Legalizing Actor’s Ivory Possession in Elephant Tusk Case

Kochi: In a significant legal blow to actor Mohanlal and the Kerala government, the High Court has nullified the government order that had legalized the actor’s possession of elephant tusks. The Court has directed the government to issue a fresh notification regarding the matter.

The court observed that the government’s procedure in legalizing the ivory possession contained flaws. Specifically, the Court highlighted that the 2015 government notification, which was key to granting Mohanlal the possession certificate, was not published in the Gazette. The High Court’s decision to cancel the possession license is based on this failure in technical and procedural compliance.

The case originated in August 2011 when Income Tax officials, during a raid at Mohanlal’s residence in Thevara, Ernakulam, seized elephant tusks. At the time of the seizure, the actor did not possess a license to keep the tusks. Subsequently, the government considered his application and issued a possession certificate, effectively legalizing his ownership.

However, the High Court has now determined that the government committed a procedural error: when the possession certificate was issued in 2015, the corresponding notification was not gazetted. The court pointed out that due to this procedural lapse, the license issued to the actor to possess the ivory is rendered invalid.

LDF Crisis Deepens: CPI Threatens Cabinet Boycott Over Pinarayi Govt’s Unilateral ‘PM SHRI’ Pact, Seeks Central CPM Intervention

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LDF Crisis Deepens: CPI Threatens Cabinet Boycott Over Pinarayi Govt’s Unilateral ‘PM SHRI’ Pact, Seeks Central CPM Intervention

Thiruvananthapuram: The Communist Party of India (CPI), a key ally in Kerala’s ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), is signaling a severe escalation against the Education Department’s decision to join the Central Government’s ‘PM SHRI’ education scheme, overriding explicit party opposition. Reports suggest a strong demand within the CPI for taking drastic measures, including a potential boycott of cabinet meetings.

The general sentiment within the CPI is that the unilateral signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)—disregarding even an assurance from CPM General Secretary M. A. Baby that the matter would be discussed within the LDF—is unacceptable. The party is preparing for a confrontation, leveraging the violation of coalition etiquette as its primary weapon. A boycott of Cabinet meetings is among the stern options currently under consideration.

The CPI has also decided to approach the national leadership of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) to register its strong protest, arguing that the Education Department’s action undermines the cohesion of the Left parties.

CPI to Seek National Leadership Intervention

The CPI is expected to mount its opposition to the state government’s decision to accept the PM SHRI scheme by raising the issue with its national leadership. While the matter is not officially on the agenda for today’s CPI Central Secretariat meeting, sources indicate that a discussion is inevitable.

MP Santosh Kumar had previously stated that the issue was yet to be discussed by the national leadership. He added that the party would offer further comments only after the CPM clarifies its official stance on the matter.

Kerala Signs PM SHRI MoU Despite Opposition

Kerala proceeded to sign the PM SHRI MoU with the Central Government yesterday, despite the intense resistance from the CPI. The document was signed by the State Education Secretary. Following the agreement, the Centre reportedly assured the immediate release of the ₹1500 crore SSK (Samagra Shiksha Kerala) fund, which had been withheld.

The fact that Kerala signed the agreement for a scheme that the CPI had opposed three times, including within the cabinet, is the driving factor behind the ally’s contemplation of severe retaliatory action.

Deadly Blaze Traps Passengers: Bike Collision Jammed Door in Andhra Pradesh Bus Tragedy

South India Pulse
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Deadly Blaze Traps Passengers: Bike Collision Jammed Door in Andhra Pradesh Bus Tragedy

​Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh — A horrific bus tragedy on the Bengaluru-Hyderabad National Highway has claimed the lives of at least 20 people after a collision with a bike quickly escalated into a deadly blaze, trapping passengers inside the inferno. The incident occurred near Chinna Tekuru village in the Kurnool district.

​The private Kaveri Travels bus was en route from Hyderabad to Bengaluru with over 40 passengers on board when disaster struck. Preliminary investigations reveal the bus hit a motorbike, which was dragged beneath the vehicle, igniting a severe fire. Authorities stated that the bus, lacking adequate fire safety measures, rapidly turned into a deathtrap.

​The most tragic element of the accident was the immediate jamming of the bus door upon impact and the outbreak of the fire. This mechanical failure sealed off the primary escape route for the terrified passengers. As the blaze consumed the bus within minutes, at least 20 individuals were charred to death, with nine bodies still awaiting identification.

​In a desperate bid for survival, twelve passengers managed to break open windows and escape the burning wreckage, many sustaining burn injuries. DIG Koya Praveen noted that while the collision initiated the fire, the presence of combustible materials inside the bus contributed significantly to the high casualty count.

​The Kurnool tragedy comes just days after a similar fatal bus fire in Rajasthan, prompting renewed scrutiny over mandatory safety protocols and enforcement for private passenger vehicles across the country. An investigation is underway to determine the full extent of safety lapses and hold those responsible accountable.

​Short and Connolly Seal Thrilling 2-Wicket Win, Australia Clinch ODI Series

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​Short and Connolly Seal Thrilling 2-Wicket Win, Australia Clinch ODI Series

Australia successfully chased down a competitive target of 265 with more than three overs to spare in a thrilling second One-Day International against India, securing a decisive two-wicket victory and an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

​The victory, powered by brilliant knocks from opener Matthew Short and young middle-order batsman Cooper Connolly, ensures the hosts lift the trophy regardless of the result in the final match.

​Short Lays Foundation, Connolly Finishes

​Chasing 265, Australia’s innings was anchored by Matthew Short, who top-scored with a well-compiled 74. His solid effort kept the required run rate in check despite regular fall of wickets. However, the innings truly found its momentum through the composure of Cooper Connolly.

​Connolly remained unbeaten on a crucial 61, expertly navigating the final stages of the chase. His mature performance under pressure saw Australia cross the finish line with precision, triggering celebrations in the home dressing room.

​Indian Bowlers Fight Hard

​The Australian chase was not without its moments of worry. Indian bowlers, despite defending a par total, put up a spirited fight. Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, and Washington Sundar each managed to scalp two wickets, applying pressure at critical junctures. However, their efforts ultimately fell short against the depth of the Australian batting line-up.

​India’s Competitive Total

​Earlier in the day, India posted a fighting total of 264/9. The innings was built on a solid foundation laid by veterans Rohit Sharma (73 off 97 balls) and Shreyas Iyer (61 off 77 balls), who put together a crucial partnership. A late surge was provided by Axar Patel, whose fiery knock of 44 in the middle overs ensured India had a competitive total to defend.

​The third and final ODI will now serve as a dead rubber, though India will be desperate for a consolation win to salvage pride.

‘He Isn’t Going Anywhere’: Kaif Hails Rohit Sharma’s Crucial 73 vs Australia in ODI

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‘He Isn’t Going Anywhere’: Kaif Hails Rohit Sharma’s Crucial 73 vs Australia in ODI

​In a performance that veteran cricketer Mohammed Kaif declared was a sign that “he isn’t going anywhere,” Rohit Sharma anchored the innings with a cautious yet crucial half-century in the second One Day International against Australia at the Adelaide Oval.

​Rohit’s knock of 73 runs off 97 balls came at a vital juncture for the tourists. After Australia opted to bowl first, India found themselves in early trouble at 17/2, with young opener Shubman Gill falling cheaply and batting stalwart Virat Kohli recording his second consecutive duck of the series.

​Amidst intense social media chatter about his future and the rising threat of young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit demonstrated resilience. His innings, punctuated by seven fours and two trademark pull shots for sixes, stabilized the ship. He built a pivotal 118-run partnership with vice-captain Shreyas Iyer (61 off 77 balls).

​Former India batsman Mohammed Kaif took to X to laud the Rohit ‘s effort, highlighting the pressure he faced. “Too much social media chatter about his future, tough pitch, world class pacers operating, Gill and Kohli out cheaply… Despite all that Rohit plays a very important inning for India and his career,” Kaif wrote. “This 73 at Adelaide will give him a lot of confidence. Rohit shows he isn’t going anywhere.”

​Beyond the crucial partnership, the 36-year-old achieved two significant personal milestones. He surpassed former captain Sourav Ganguly to become India’s third-highest run-scorer in ODI cricket, a list now led by Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. Furthermore, Rohit became the first Indian batsman to amass 1,000 ODI runs against Australia on Australian soil.

​Despite a mid-innings wobble caused by Adam Zampa (4/60) that reduced India to 226/8, a valuable late contribution from Harshit Rana (24* off 18) helped the team post a competitive total of 264/9. However, the day’s narrative was firmly claimed by the Rohit’s composed fifty, which provided a much-needed counterpoint to the earlier speculation surrounding the team’s senior players.

Cricket Star Virat Kohli’s Crowd Gesture After Double Duck Fuels Retirement Speculation

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Cricket Star Virat Kohli’s Crowd Gesture After Double Duck Fuels Retirement Speculation

Adelaide Oval : Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli found himself at the centre of intense speculation on Wednesday after a poignant gesture towards the crowd at the Adelaide Oval, following his second consecutive duck in the ODI series against Australia.

​The 36-year-old batting icon, who had recently declared he was feeling “fitter than ever,” was dismissed for a four-ball duck in the second One Day International at Adelaide, marking the first time in his celebrated career he has recorded back-to-back ducks in the 50-over format. This poor run of form, coupled with fierce competition for spots in the national squad from younger players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, has placed his immediate future under the spotlight.

​It was Kohli’s response upon walking back to the pavilion that ignited the social media firestorm. As he departed the field with his gloves still in hand, Kohli turned and offered a noticeable wave to the packed Adelaide crowd.

​This simple act, captured and shared widely across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), was interpreted by a significant segment of the cricketing fraternity as a possible farewell. Fans immediately began debating whether the talismanic batter was signaling the impending end of his illustrious international career.

​One fan post commented, “End is very-very near guys, cherish each and every moment of Virat Kohli in this tour,” while another prominent account highlighted the significance of the wave: “The way Kohli thanked the fans actually scares me a bit.”

​Ahead of the series, Kohli had been vocal about his intent to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, the unexpected double failure has amplified existing conversations about his form and whether his current output is enough to guarantee selection in an aggressively competitive Indian squad. His performance in the upcoming matches will now be scrutinized more closely than ever as the cricket world awaits clarity on the meaning behind his emotional crowd gesture.

KPCC Website Still Lists K. Sudhakaran as President Six Months After Exit

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KPCC Website Still Lists K. Sudhakaran as President Six Months After Exit

Kozhikode : In a glaring instance of digital oversight, the official website of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) continues to display former state chief K. Sudhakaran MP as its President, despite his successor, Sunny Joseph, having taken the reins six months ago.

​Visitors to the official KPCC website will find Sudhakaran’s picture prominently featured on the cover page and his details listed as the head of the organization. The name of the current incumbent, Sunny Joseph, who assumed the post on May 8, 2025, is conspicuously absent from the site. Furthermore, the website continues to feature a message attributed to K. Sudhakaran in his capacity as KPCC President, a position he left in June 2025.

​This major delay in updating the crucial organizational information raises serious questions about the efficiency of the party’s Digital Media Cell, which is responsible for managing the site. While the heads of the Digital Media Cell may have changed hands, the critical task of acknowledging the new organizational leader remains neglected.

​The lapse is not confined to the state unit’s website. An investigation into the national Youth Congress website revealed a similar lack of current information regarding Kerala. A check of the national site’s ‘Our Leadership’ section provides no indication of the current Youth Congress President for Kerala, making it appear as though the state unit has no official head, even though a new leader has been appointed.

​This persistent failure to update official digital platforms with current leadership details presents an embarrassing face to the public and raises concerns about the administrative priorities and coordination within the party structure.

Hitman Rewrites History: Rohit Sharma Storms Past Ganguly, Claims Third Spot in India’s ODI Run Charts

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Hitman Rewrites History: Rohit Sharma Storms Past Ganguly, Claims Third Spot in India’s ODI Run Charts

ADELAIDE OVAL, Australia — Indian captain and prolific opener Rohit Sharma etched his name further into the annals of cricket history on Thursday, delivering a spectacular performance in the second One Day International against Australia at the Adelaide Oval. The “Hitman” not only anchored the Indian innings with a crucial knock of 73 off 97 balls but, in the process, shattered multiple longstanding records, most notably leapfrogging Sourav Ganguly to become India’s third-highest run-scorer in ODI cricket.

​Sharma achieved the historic feat when he struck a boundary off Adam Zampa in the 21st over, pushing his career tally past Ganguly’s 11,221 runs. He now sits behind only the legendary Sachin Tendulkar and the current batting titan Virat Kohli on India’s all-time ODI run list.

​The milestones did not stop there for the Mumbai-born star. The day proved to be a triple-record bonanza:

  1. ​Highest Run-Scorer as Opener: Sharma also surpassed Ganguly’s record of 9,146 runs to become the leading ODI run-scorer for India in the opening position.
  2. ​Asian Batting Pioneer in Australia: His innings made him the first-ever Asian cricketer to breach the 1,000-run mark in India-Australia ODI matches played on Australian soil.
  3. ​SENA Sixes King: By smashing his first maximum of the match, Sharma became the first Asian batsman to record 150 sixes in the challenging conditions of SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia combined).

​Sharma’s monumental performance underlines his status as one of the modern era’s greatest white-ball cricketers, consistently converting his strong starts into history-making knocks. While his day at the crease was eventually cut short by Mitchell Starc, his dazzling display, which included 7 fours and 2 sixes, ensured that his name dominates the cricketing headlines, proving once again why he is referred to as the ‘Hitman’.

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