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NDTV
3 days ago
- Politics
- NDTV
"You Don't Know Me?" RJD MLA vs 'Sachiv' In ' Panchayat '-Style Face-Off
New Delhi: In a scene that may well be straight out of the 'Panchayat' web series, a Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLA in Bihar engaged in a face-off with a local secretary on a phone call. An audio clip of the confrontation involving the RJD legislator, Bhai Virendra, and the 'sachiv' has gone viral on social media. The row began when Bhai Virendra called the village secretary of his constituency to ask about the status of a death certificate. The 'sachiv' did not recognise the RJD MLA and asked him for his name. To this, the legislator snapped, "You don't know Bhai Virendra? You don't know Bhai Virendra of Maner? You want me to introduce myself?" The official responded: "I will recognise you when you introduce yourself". Bhai Virendra sarcastically asked the secretary whether he was from England. "Are you from England? You don't know the MLA of Maner? The entire country knows me," he said. "Yes, MLA ji, please speak," the 'sachiv' responded. Angered by the response, the RJD MLA threatened to hit the government official to hit him with a shoe. "Yes MLA ji, speak? Joote se maarenge tumko (I will hit you with my shoes). Record this and do what you want. The country knows me, and you're saying you don't know who Bhai Virendra is. You should have greeted me on the call," he said. Bhai Virendra then told him that an application had been sent for a death certificate for Avinash Kumar, the husband of one Rinki Devi. "Get it made. The application was sent long ago. Don't work poorly. You are an employee, work like an employee," he told the village secretary. The face-off escalated after the village secretary told the RJD MLA that he would not be bullied by him. "If you talk to me nicely, then I will talk to you nicely. Do whatever you want, I am not afraid of you. If you speak rudely, I will speak rudely. No one is going to be afraid here," he said. This response made the MLA even more furious; he raged that the village secretary had no right to work if he did not know the local legislator. "Get me transferred," the 'sachiv' challenged. "Transfer? This won't stop at transfer. That is a very small thing. Where are you even from?" Bhai Virendra asked. To this, the village secretary asked the RJD MLA not to threaten him. "Talk to me about work. Your request has been processed. You will know when it is done," he said before cutting the call.
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
HC rejects plea by doctors seeking rural service exemption
Bhopal/Jabalpur: The MP high court has dismissed a plea by two doctors who sought exemption from the mandatory one-year rural service on the grounds that the state govt failed to issue them appointment letters within the stipulated period. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Dr Jolly Sinha and Dr Avinash Kumar, in their petition, said they had filed a bond at the time of taking admission in a super speciality course (MCH) in neurosurgery that they would give service in a rural area for a year or else pay a penalty of Rs 10 lakh. They should have been issued an appointment letter for service in a rural area within three months after completing the course. After a lapse of one year since they finished the course, they have not received the appointment. Therefore, they said, the bond has lost its validity. During arguments, a division bench of justices Atul Sreedharan and Amit Seth was informed by the state govt that the clause mandating appointment within three months had been amended, and the time limit removed. The petitioners also admitted that they were covered under the amended rule following which the petition was dismissed by the high court.
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Defence drive to clear airstripsland halted due to rainy season
Varanasi: The defence estate (DE) department of the ministry of defence has halted the drive to remove illegal structures built on the land of Andhau and Shahbazkuli airstrips in Ghazipur district till the end of the rainy season. The department launched a drive two months ago during which it razed many houses and structures built on the land of airstrips developed by the British during the World War II for emergency landing of fighter planes. The action stirred people who have been living there for seven decades, while political parties, especially Samajwadi Party, also launched agitation in their support. Talking to TOI, Ghazipur DM Avinash Kumar said, "Except for assisting the defence estate department in maintaining law and order, the district administration has no other role to play in the drive. The DE department was initiating action as per its own rules and laws. But, as monsoon turned active in the district, we requested them to put the drive on hold and they agreed to halt it." The DE department will relaunch its drive after issuing proper notices to persons concerned, added the DM. Before the drive of the DE department was put on hold, the SP had started raising the issue of affected people. SP's Jungiganj MLA Virendra Yadav alleged that people settled on the airstrip land decades back were being harassed at the behest of BJP-led govts at the Centre and state. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like [Click Here] - 2025 Top Trending Search - Local network access Esseps Learn More Undo He also submitted a memorandum to the DM, terming demolition activities in areas like Biraich and Inarwa villages as unfair. Local SP MP Afjal Ansari and office-bearers like Gopal Yadav also turned vocal, terming the action as an inhuman act as after the razing of houses, many families were taking shelter under plastic sheets or in tents. They demanded waterproof tents, food and temporary toilets for the affected people. Displaced people should be provided land to build housing and shopkeepers at Zamania Mod should not be displaced, they added. The DM said that it is being ensured that eligible persons are identified and benefitted with govt schemes. The airstrips in Andhau and Shahbazkuli area of Ghazipur came up during World War II. After independence, the DE department did not initiate any step against people who occupied the defence land. Even many govt structures also came up on the airstrip land. Currently, only 63 acre of Andhau airstrip is lying un-encroached, while its 272.25 acre has been encroached upon. The area of Shahbazkuli airstrip encroached by people is 235.47 acre. On a total of 507.72 acre of encroached land of the DE department, Andhau airstrip's land is occupied by people dwelling in 18 villages including Bikapur, Biraich, Chandanbaha, Kapurpur, and Rajdepur. In Shahbazkuli, residents from 24 villages, including Bensagar, Hussainpur, Chakmeer and Firozpur Kala, are occupants.
Hindustan Times
27-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
Culinary art of spice fusion: Chef shares how to pair pan-asian cuisine with Indian flavours
In today's hyper-connected world, cuisines know no boundaries. As they go global, they absorb local, native flavours as well, creating a wonderful culinary exchange that feels refreshing. Pan-Asian cuisine, which typically includes dishes from East and Southeast Asia, such as those from Thailand, Japan, Korea, China, and more, is gaining popularity in India. The strong footing of pan-asian cuisine also has roots in the art of fusion, where Asian cooking techniques and methods are integrated with Indian ingredients and spices. Pan-asian foods are diverse and have a wide variety of flavours.(Freepik) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Chef Avinash Kumar, Director of Culinary at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, explained the growing appeal of Pan-Asian cuisine among Indian diners. He said, 'In recent years, there has been an increased fondness for Pan‑Asian cuisine amongst Indian diners, not just for its novelty but for its adaptability. This adaptation isn't about fusion as a gimmick; it's about genuine flavour dialogue of an exchange between Asia's classic ingredients and India's rich taste traditions. Serving authentic Asian dishes in India is not about changing the soul of the cuisine but about thoughtfully pairing it with the bold, layered tastes that Indian guests love." ALSO READ: Tea and coffee in fine dining? Chef shares beverage pairing rules, Indian dishes to go with, and brew types What is the secret of fusing the two cuisines? Balance will help to avoid a clash of Indian and pan-asian flavours. (Freepik) With India's strong spice profile and the boldness of Pan-Asian flavours, it's important that any fusion is done in a cohesive, complementary manner that avoids blatant flavour clash. One of the key secrets to successful fusion, as explained by Chef Avinash, is using local Indian ingredients, sometimes as equivalents, while following the principle of flavour synergy. He further elaborated on the essential Asian flavour notes and how to make them complement India's spice profile. Chef Avinash said, 'We curate Pan Asian menus that honour traditional techniques while thoughtfully incorporating subtle local influences. Each dish is designed to strike a harmonious balance among the five essential Asian tastes sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami, complemented by familiar Indian spice notes. " He adds, "For example, adding chilli flakes to our kimchi fried rice evokes the flavour profile of Gochugaru, the traditional Korean chilli powder, while also resonating with the warmth of Indian chilli powder. The key here is to infuse symmetry into those rich palates so that a culinary authenticity is not compromised, but crafted in a manner to cater to the tastes of Indian diners.' Balance is a central focus in Indo–Pan-Asian fusion cuisine, as the Indian spice profile differs significantly from the quick, sharp heat typically found in many Asian dishes. He added, 'Indian cuisine embraces robust, lingering spice, while Asian dishes often use sharper, quick heat, and pairing Asian flavours for Indian palates is an art of balance, not compromise. Try to combine Asian chilis with familiar Indian spices. Add fresh green chilli or black pepper to complement Asian peppery notes." Tips on how to pair asian cuisine with indian flavours Locally sourced ingredients can also be added in the pan-asian cuisine, infusing desi touch.(Freepik) 1. Understand the core flavours: When pairing for an Indian palate, think of how to align with Indian staples. Go for desi parallels, rooted in core flavours. For instance, tangy tamarind resembles Indian kokum or raw mango; miso's depth is similar to rich Indian gravies. 2. Use local ingredients: For Thai-style sourness, opt for kokum or raw mango. Use locally available fish like kingfish or pomfret to recreate Japanese teriyaki. Incorporate seasonal greens in Asian stir-fries. This will keep the flavours authentic yet comforting. 3. Pair with balanced sides: Serve spicy curries with jasmine rice or fluffy millet and offer stir-fries with warm phulkas or steamed buns. Cool down heat by pairing with fresh salads or yoghurt dips.
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Yogi: Instil fear of law, ensure zero tolerance against mafia
1 2 Varanasi: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday directed police officials to instil the fear of law in criminals and act tough against mafia with zero tolerance. Reviewing law and order and progress of ongoing development works and execution of govt schemes in Ghazipur, Yogi said, "Officials should take action against land, mining, and forest mafias, and other criminals with zero tolerance. A list of the district's top 10 criminals should be prepared for effective action." He directed senior officials to monitor works, especially the lodging of FIRs and investigations, effectively. You Can Also Check: Varanasi AQI | Weather in Varanasi | Bank Holidays in Varanasi | Public Holidays in Varanasi "Cases registered under sections of the POCSO Act and crimes against women should be pursued in the courts effectively to ensure punishment for criminals. Accountability of the officials of those police stations which are failing to check cattle smuggling should be fixed," he said. "Prompt action should be taken in cases of religious conversion, and the Mission Shakti initiatives should be effectively advanced," he said, asking officials to finalise preparations for forthcoming festivals. Yogi asked for prompt resolution of revenue disputes, addressing public grievances seriously and sensitively to ensure no disputes remain pending, and stressed that the poor should not face injustice. He said that market for One District One Product Scheme should be identified. Reviewing the implementation of Prime Minister's Awas Yojana and the Chief Minister's Rural Housing Scheme, he said that clean drinking water should be continuously supplied in rural areas under the Jal Jeevan Mission, avoiding unnecessary road cutting for pipeline installation. Yogi said that the dropout rate of students should be zero and funds for uniforms and bags should be transferred to parents' accounts. He said that power supply should be according to the roster and timely transformer replacement should be ensured in urban and rural areas. He mentioned the activation of toll-free number 1912 for resolving electricity-related issues and raising public awareness about its use. He said that officials should work on a war footing to make Ghazipur TB-free by Dec 2025 under the Prime Minister's TB-Free India campaign. In view of the massive plantation programme in July, he encouraged active participation in the 'One Tree in Mother's Name' campaign. Earlier, Ghazipur district magistrate Avinash Kumar said that the district ranks 33rd at the state level in revenue and development works as of May 2025. He also provided details on development works, mentioning 65 cow shelters in the district housing 6,535 cattle. "A dense forest is being established using the Miyawaki method on the Greenfield Expressway," he said. Earlier, DM Avinash Kumar, SP Iraj Raja, and women's self-help groups welcomed Yogi with an ODOP jute wall hanging.
