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Curfew relaxed in Shillong, situation improves

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Curfew relaxed in Shillong, situation improves

With improved situation on the ground curfew in parts of strife-torn Shillong was relaxed for seven hours on Sunday to enable stranded people in 14 localities to buy their essentials and tourists to exit from Meghalaya capital.

P.S. Dakar, Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi district said on Sunday, “Curfew has been relaxed from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in view of the improvement in law and order situation since Saturday evening. But night curfew across the city will remain until further orders.”

The senior police official said that the local taxi and private vehicles have been plying while long-distance transport services, particularly to Guwahati, remain affected. “We do not know how many tourists are stranded in Shillong, but we are trying to ensure they can return home safe,” he said.

Most of the tourist hotels are located in Police Bazaar which is close to the trouble-torn area in the city.

Shillong has been a popular tourist destination after the 1990s when communal violence – Bengali and Nepali communities were the worst affected then – had much of Meghalaya burning.

There were hardly any clashes since then. The current clashes were triggered by a row over parking of a State transport bus in the Them Iew Mawlong locality, often called Punjabi or Sweeper Lane as well as Harijan Colony.

About 500 residents of the Harijan Colony, mostly women and children from Dalit Sikhs, who are employed as sanitation workers by the municipality, have taken shelter at Shillong’s Garrison Ground under the jurisdiction of Army’s 101 Area.

“We are not aware of people taking refuge. At least the Army did not inform us,” Mr. Dkhar said.

On Thursday clashes were erupted after rumors spread through social media saying a local tribal man had been killed in Harijan Colony. Though the police had earlier in the day contained a minor clash between the driver and conductor of a State transport bus and women of the locality who had thrown stones at the bus for blocking their way to a water source.

Police said nine motorbikes were burnt around 10:30 p.m. when miscreants attacked a showroom in Mawblei area with petrol bombs. A shop in Punjabi Lane was also damaged earlier.

A report from Nongpoh, a town halfway between Guwahati and Shillong, said a truck with Punjab registration was torched at Umran nearby on Saturday. The truck was carrying CGI sheets from Nepal to Tripura. The highway bypassing Shillong is considered to be the lifeline for southern Assam, Mizoram and Tripura besides parts of Manipur.

The Meghalaya State Development Report, 2008 said most of the slum pockets are located in low-lying and water-logged areas amid poor sanitary conditions and unhygienic surroundings.

In 2011, the State government claimed to have set a target to reduce slum areas by at least 75% within a decade, and said some of the slums should be de-notified by 2021.

On Saturday, the tribal headmen of 12 sensitive localities met Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on the issue of shifting the residents of Harijan Colony. While the headmen wanted the colony to be vacated immediately, Mr. Sangma said a report has been sought from the Urban Affairs and Revenue departments on the status of the rehabilitation policy.

People’s Democratic Party, one of the ruling allies of National People’s Party and BJP, said the government should shift the colony by Tuesday. Paul Lyngdoh, leader of United Democratic Party (UDP) – also in the ruling alliance – accused the previous Congress-led government for failing to resolve the “Punjabi Lane issue because of vote-bank politics”.

On Saturday, the army was asked to be on standby and curfew continued in parts of Meghalaya’s capital Shillong for the third day after night-long violence during which a mob burnt a shop, a house and damaged at least five vehicles besides injuring a senior police officer.

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Karnataka’s Republic Day tableau depicts artistic temples of Lakkundi

Beyond its religious significance, Lakkundi’s historical importance cannot be overstated. Once a flourishing commercial hub between the 10th and 12th centuries AD, the city flourished under the rule of various dynasties, with the Chalukyas leaving an indelible mark on its cultural landscape.

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Karnataka’s 76th Republic Day tableau paid a vibrant tribute to Lakkundi, a historical city nestled in Gadag district, approximately 70 km from Hubballi. Acclaimed as the “Cradle of Stone Craft,” Lakkundi’s architectural splendour took centre stage in the parade along Kartavya Path.

The tableau’s design masterfully captured the essence of Lakkundi’s rich heritage. The forefront showcased the majestic Brahma statue from the Brahma Jinalaya temple, the oldest Jain shrine in the city, dedicated to Lord Mahaveera. Its intricate details and imposing presence immediately drew the viewer’s attention, setting the tone for the tableau’s narrative.

Following the Brahma statue was a depiction of the open-pillared mantapa of the Brahma Jinalaya temple, a testament to the sophisticated architectural techniques employed during the era. The open structure, with its elegant pillars and intricate carvings, added another layer of visual appeal to the tableau’s composition.

The tableau’s main section provided a breathtaking glimpse into the grandeur of Lakkundi’s most prominent temples. The Kashi Vishweshwara temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stood as a symbol of architectural mastery. Its ornate carvings and imposing structure were vividly represented, highlighting the city’s rich religious and cultural tapestry. Completing the ensemble was the Nanneshwara temple, another significant Shiva temple in Lakkundi, further emphasizing the city’s devotion to Lord Shiva.

The temples of Lakkundi are not merely structures of stone; they are living testaments to the syncretic nature of Karnataka’s culture. They reflect a harmonious blend of different faiths and traditions, showcasing the state’s long-held reputation for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence. Karnataka, known as the “SarvaJanangadaShaanthiya Thota” or “garden of peace,” embraces diversity, and Lakkundi’s temples embody this spirit.

Beyond its religious significance, Lakkundi’s historical importance cannot be overstated. Once a flourishing commercial hub between the 10th and 12th centuries AD, the city flourished under the rule of various dynasties, with the Chalukyas leaving an indelible mark on its cultural landscape.

The city’s legacy extends beyond its temples; its numerous step wells and inscriptions serve as invaluable historical records. With over 50 temples, most dedicated to Lord Shiva, 101 stepwells, and 29 inscriptions, Lakkundi presents a captivating journey through time, an unparalleled treasure trove for history and architecture enthusiasts. The tableau served as a powerful reminder of Lakkundi’s enduring legacy, highlighting the artistic prowess and cultural richness of the Kalyani Chalukyas.

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K M Cherian, eminent Indian cardiac surgeon, passes away

He was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine in London, an Honorary Member of the Malaysian Association for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, and a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award from the Government of India in 1991.

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Dr. K.M. Cherian, a towering figure in Indian medical history and a renowned cardiac surgeon, passed away on Saturday night in Bengaluru at the age of 82. His sudden death cast a pall over the nation, leaving a void in the field of cardiology and beyond. He had travelled to Bengaluru to attend a wedding when he unexpectedly collapsed.

His daughter, Sandhya Cherian, confirmed the tragic news, stating that he was rushed to Manipal Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead at 11:55 pm. The medical community mourns the loss of a true giant, a pioneer whose contributions reshaped the landscape of cardiac surgery in India.

Dr. Cherian’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive list of accomplishments. His pioneering spirit led him to achieve what was once considered impossible in India. In 1975, he etched his name into the annals of medical history by becoming the first surgeon in the country to successfully perform a coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG).

This groundbreaking achievement marked a turning point, paving the way for countless life-saving procedures and advancements in the field. His expertise and dedication earned him international acclaim, transcending geographical boundaries and establishing him as a leading authority in cardiac surgery.

His profound impact on the medical landscape is further exemplified by his instrumental role in the establishment and growth of the Madras Medical Mission (MMM) in Chennai. As Founder, Vice President, and Director of this leading healthcare institution, Dr. Cherian spearheaded its development into a centre of excellence for cardiac care. His vision and leadership nurtured a culture of innovation and excellence, shaping generations of medical professionals and leaving an indelible mark on the institution.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Cherian was recognised for his exceptional qualities and numerous accolades. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine in London, an Honorary Member of the Malaysian Association for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, and a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award from the Government of India in 1991. These honours reflected not only his exceptional surgical skills but also his unwavering commitment to medical excellence and ethical practice.

Even in his final days, Dr. Cherian’s dedication to his profession and his unwavering belief in the importance of compassionate patient care shone through. Just a day before his passing, he participated in the Kerala Literature Festival in Kozhikode, where he shared his insights and experiences, emphasizing the crucial role of empathy in the doctor-patient relationship.

His words resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring his dedication to ethical medical practice and leaving a lasting impression. The nation mourns the loss of a remarkable individual, a medical visionary whose contributions continue to shape the future of cardiac care in India. His memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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Padma Awards 2025: Full list of Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri awardees

The awards recognize outstanding achievements across all fields, with a focus on public service. The recipients are selected by a committee appointed by the Prime Minister.

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The central government announced the recipients of the prestigious Padma Awards on Saturday. These awards, conferred annually on the eve of Republic Day, represent India’s highest civilian honours. They are presented in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (for distinguished service of a higher order), and Padma Shri (for distinguished service).

The awards recognize outstanding achievements across all fields, with a focus on public service. The recipients are selected by a committee appointed by the Prime Minister.

This year, a total of 199 awards were presented: 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri. The President of India bestows these awards at a formal ceremony in Rashtrapati Bhawan, typically held in March or April.

List of Padma Award Winners 2024:

Padma Vibhushan:

  • Duvvur Nageshwar Reddy
  • Justice (Retd.) Jagdish Singh Khehar
  • Kumudini Rajnikant Lakhia
  • Lakshminarayana Subramaniam
  • MT Vasudevan Nair (Posthumous)
  • Osamu Suzuki (Posthumous)
  • Sharda Sinha (Posthumous)

Padma Bhushan:

  • A Surya Prakash
  • Anant Nag
  • Bibek Debroy (Posthumous)
  • Jatin Goswami
  • Jose Chacko Periappuram
  • Kailash Nath Dikshit
  • Manohar Joshi (Posthumous)
  • Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti
  • Nandamuri Balakrishna
  • PR Sreejesh
  • Pankaj Patel
  • Pankaj Udhas (Posthumous)
  • Rambahadur Rai
  • Sadhvi Ritambhara
  • S Ajith Kumar
  • Shekhar Kapur
  • Shobana Chandrakumar
  • Sushil Kumar Modi (Posthumous)
  • Vinod Dham

Padma Shri:

  • Advaita Charan Gadanayak
  • Achyut Ramchandra Palav
  • Ajay V Bhatt
  • Anil Kumar Boro
  • Arijit Singh
  • Arundhati Bhattacharya
  • Arunoday Saha
  • Arvind Sharma
  • Ashok Kumar Mahapatra
  • Ashok Laxman Saraf
  • Ashutosh Sharma
  • Ashwini Bhide Deshpande
  • Baijnath Maharaj
  • Barry Godfray John
  • Begam Batool
  • Bharat Gupt
  • Bheru Singh Chouhan
  • Bhim Singh Bhavesh
  • Bhimawa Doddabalappa Shiilekyathara
  • Budhendra Kumar Jain
  • C S Vaidyanathan
  • Chaitram Deochand Pawar
  • Chandrakant Sheth (Posthumous)
  • Chandrakant Sompura
  • Chetan E Chitnis
  • David R Syiemlieh
  • Durga Charan Ranbir
  • Farooq Ahmad Mir
  • Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid
  • Gita Upadhyay
  • Gokul Chandra Das
  • Guruvayur Dorai
  • Harchandan Singh Bhatty
  • Hariman Sharma
  • Harjinder Singh Srinagar Wale
  • Harvinder Singh
  • Hassan Raghu
  • Hemant Kumar
  • Hriday Narayan Dixit
  • Hugh and Colleen Gantzer (Posthumous)
  • Inivalappil Mani Vijayan
  • Jagadish Joshila
  • Jaspinder Narula
  • Jonas Masetti
  • Joynacharan Bathari
  • Jumde Yomgam Gamlin
  • K. Damodaran
  • K L Krishna
  • K Omanakutty Amma
  • Kishore Kunal (Posthumous)
  • L Hangthing
  • Lakshmipathy Ramasubbaiyer
  • Lalit Kumar Mangotra
  • Lama Lobzang (Posthumous)
  • Libia Lobo Sardesai
  • M D Srinivas
  • Madugula Nagaphani Sarma
  • Mahabir Nayak
  • Mamata Shankar
  • Manda Krishna Madiga
  • Maruti Bhujangrao Chitampalli
  • Miriyala Apparao (Posthumous)
  • Nagendra Nath Roy
  • Narayan (Bhulai Bhai) (Posthumous)
  • Naren Gurung
  • Neerja Bhatla
  • Nirmala Devi
  • Nitin Nohria
  • Onkar Singh Pahwa
  • P Datchanamoorthy
  • Pandi Ram Mandavi
  • Parmar Lavjibhai Nagjibhai
  • Pawan Goenka
  • Prashanth Prakash
  • Pratibha Satpathy
  • Purisai Kannappa Sambandan
  • R Ashwin
  • R G Chandramogan
  • Radha Bahin Bhatt
  • Radhakrishnan Devasenapathy
  • Ramdarash Mishra
  • Ranendra Bhanu Majumdar
  • Ratan Kumar Parimoo
  • Reba Kanta Mahanta
  • Renthlei Lalrawna
  • Ricky Gyan Kej
  • Sajjan Bhajanka
  • Sally Holkar
  • Sant Ram Deswal
  • Satyapal Singh
  • Seeni Viswanathan
  • Sethuraman Panchanathan
  • Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah
  • Sheen Kaaf Nizam (Shiv Kishan Bissa)
  • Shyam Bihari Agrawal
  • Soniya Nityanand
  • Stephen Knapp
  • Subhash Khetulal Sharma
  • Suresh Harilal Soni
  • Surinder Kumar Vasal
  • Swami Pradiptananda (Kartik Maharaj)
  • Syed Ainu Hasan
  • Tejendra Narayan Majumdar
  • Thiyam Suryamukhi Devi
  • Tushar Durgeshbhai Shukla
  • Vadiraj Raghavendracharya Panchamukhi
  • Vasudeo Kamath
  • Velu Assaan
  • Venkappa Ambaji Sugatekar
  • Vijay Nityanand Surishwar Ji Maharaj
  • Vijayalakshmi Deshamane
  • Vilas Dangre
  • Vinayak Lohani

Note that “(Posthumous)” indicates the award was given posthumously.

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