Jalgaon rail accident: 11 passengers jump out fearing fire, run over by another train

On January 22, 2025, a tragic incident occurred near Pardhade railway station in Jalgaon district, Maharashtra. Passengers aboard the Pushpak Express, traveling from Lucknow to Mumbai, noticed smoke emanating from the train’s wheels, leading to panic and fears of a fire. In response, several passengers pulled the emergency chain and disembarked onto the adjacent tracks. Tragically, at that moment, the Bengaluru Express (also referred to as the Karnataka Express) was approaching on the adjacent track and struck the passengers who had alighted, resulting in multiple fatalities.
HINDUSTAN TIMES

Initial reports indicate that at least six individuals lost their lives in the accident.
THE TRIBUNE
However, some sources suggest the death toll could be as high as eight.
THE INDIAN EXPRESS
Additionally, several passengers sustained injuries and were promptly transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

The incident has prompted an immediate response from railway authorities and local officials. The Divisional Railway Manager of Bhusawal, along with a medical team, has been dispatched to the site to oversee rescue and relief operations. The exact cause of the smoke, which led to the panic among passengers, is under investigation. Preliminary assessments suggest that the smoke may have resulted from either a ‘hot axle’ or ‘brake-binding’ (jamming).
THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and has directed officials to ensure adequate medical treatment for the injured.
HINDUSTAN TIMES
Further investigations are underway to determine the precise sequence of events and to implement measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Sebi looks to allow trading in IPO shares ahead of listing to curb grey market activity: Buch

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is actively considering the introduction of a platform to facilitate the trading of shares allotted in an Initial Public Offering (IPO) before their official listing on stock exchanges. This initiative aims to regulate and legitimize the currently unregulated grey market activities that occur during the typical three-day interval between share allotment and formal listing.
MONEYCONTROL

SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch highlighted the prevalence of curb trading in this interim period and emphasized the need for a structured mechanism to allow such transactions within a regulated framework. She stated, “Between the three days when the shares are allotted to the time the shares start trading, there is a lot of curb trading. If investors want to do this, why not give them the same opportunity in a properly regulated space.”
MONEYCONTROL

The proposed “when-listed” securities trading would enable investors to trade shares after the IPO closure but before their official listing. This move is expected to enhance transparency and protect investor interests by bringing pre-listing transactions under regulatory oversight.
INC42

This development comes in the context of a robust IPO market in India. In 2024, the country witnessed a significant surge in IPOs, with 91 large firms going public and raising a record 1.6 trillion rupees ($18.5 billion).
REUTERS

SEBI’s initiative to allow pre-listing trading is part of its broader efforts to curb unregulated market activities and ensure a fair and transparent trading environment for investors.

Parliamentary panel to summon Meta over Mark Zuckerberg's remark on India polls: BJP MP

A recent statement by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has prompted significant reactions from Indian political leaders. In a podcast interview, Zuckerberg remarked that during the 2024 global election cycle, many incumbent governments, including India’s, were voted out, attributing this trend to public dissatisfaction with pandemic management.
HINDUSTAN TIMES

In response, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who chairs the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, announced plans to summon Meta representatives. Dubey emphasized that disseminating incorrect information tarnishes the image of democratic nations and stated that Meta should apologize to the Indian Parliament and its citizens.
TIMES OF INDIA

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also criticized Zuckerberg’s remarks, labeling them factually incorrect. He highlighted that in the 2024 elections, the Indian populace reaffirmed their trust in the NDA led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Vaishnaw pointed to India’s effective pandemic response, including distributing free food to 800 million people and administering 2.2 billion free vaccines, as evidence of the government’s competence. He expressed disappointment over the spread of misinformation from a prominent figure like Zuckerberg and called for upholding factual accuracy and credibility.
HINDUSTAN TIMES

This development underscores the growing scrutiny of global tech companies and their influence on public discourse, especially concerning the dissemination of information related to democratic processes.

Woman gets darshan of Naga sadhus after waiting for 2.5 hours at Mahakumbh: ‘Almost got squished

The Mahakumbh Mela is a significant Hindu festival held every 12 years at one of four sacred locations in India: Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. It attracts millions of devotees, sadhus, and tourists from across the world. Naga sadhus, a unique group of ascetics, are one of the primary attractions due to their spiritual practices and symbolic lifestyle.

Here’s a detailed account of the woman’s experience during her darshan of the Naga sadhus at the Mahakumbh:

The Wait and the Crowds
The woman reportedly waited for over 2.5 hours in a dense crowd to catch a glimpse of the Naga sadhus, showcasing the immense devotion that pilgrims bring to the Mahakumbh.
Due to the sheer volume of attendees, she mentioned she “almost got squished,” a reflection of how tightly packed the crowds can get during key events like shahi snan (royal bath) or processions featuring the Naga sadhus.
Naga Sadhus’ Role at Mahakumbh
Naga sadhus are known for their renunciation of worldly possessions, including clothing, and are recognized by their ash-covered bodies and matted hair.
Their shahi snan, where they take a ceremonial dip in the sacred river, is considered a highlight of the festival. This event is believed to cleanse the soul and lead to spiritual liberation.
Devotion Amidst Chaos
Despite the challenges posed by the crowds, the woman’s perseverance underscores the deep religious significance of receiving blessings or darshan from the Naga sadhus.
Many devotees believe that such a darshan is auspicious and brings spiritual merit.
Challenges at Mahakumbh
Massive gatherings often lead to logistical issues, such as overcrowding, long wait times, and safety concerns.
Authorities typically deploy measures like barricades, crowd control staff, and emergency response teams to manage the flow of people, but the sheer scale of the event can overwhelm preparations.
Tips for Visitors
Timing: Arrive during less crowded hours or plan your visit during quieter days of the festival.
Safety: Stay with a group, especially in dense crowds, and follow the instructions of event organizers.
Comfort: Carry essentials like water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit.
Awareness: Be vigilant about your belongings and surroundings to avoid getting lost or caught in unsafe situations.
The woman’s story is a testament to the devotion and resilience of the pilgrims who attend the Mahakumbh, often enduring significant challenges for their faith and spiritual aspirations

HMPV virus cases live

HMPV virus cases live

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold, such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. While it typically leads to mild illness, it can result in severe respiratory conditions, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems

Jammu And Kashmir 3 Soldiers Die As Army Vehicle Falls Into Gorge

Jammu And Kashmir 3 Soldiers Die As Army Vehicle Falls Into Gorge.

On January 4, 2025, an Indian Army vehicle met with a tragic accident near the Wular Viewpoint in Bandipora district, Jammu and Kashmir. The vehicle skidded off the road due to adverse weather conditions and fell into a deep gorge. The incident resulted in the deaths of three soldiers, while two others sustained injuries. Here are the key details: