Latest news today (December 29): Presenting FE’s Breaking News today. We will keep you updated on all major news, views and much more throughout the day.
President gives assent to bill for appointment of CEC, ECs
President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to a bill that seeks to put in place a mechanism for the appointment of Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners, according to a government notification issued Friday. The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, has provisions to set up a search committee chaired by the law minister and two other persons not below the rank of secretary, to prepare a panel of five persons for consideration of the selection committee for appointment as CEC or ECs.
Fire breaks out in plastic-chemical factory in MP’s Gwalior
A massive fire broke out in a warehouse of a plastic and chemical factory situated in Badagaon locality in Madhya Pradesh’s Gwalior district on Friday, an official said. The factory was situated in a residential area in the city here and was being operated illegally. On getting the information about the incident, the fire brigade team immediately rushed to the spot and started to douse off the fire. (ANI)
Shah’s Instagram followers cross one cr mark
Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s followers on Instagram have crossed 10 million (one-crore) mark, with BJP sources saying their numbers saw a steep rise following the passage in Parliament of some landmark bills, including three legislations which overhaul criminal codes and laws. Shah, a key strategist of the party, has over 34.1 million followers on X, 10.7 million on Instagram and 15 million on Facebook, and he has been the most followed politician on social media after Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (PTI)
Amendment in Delhi Victims Compensation Scheme 2018
Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has given the green light to amendments in the Delhi Victims Compensation Scheme 2018, facilitating compensation for victims of mob violence and lynching. This move comes after a five-year delay, as the Delhi Government submitted the proposal following a Supreme Court directive in 2018, urging states to formulate such schemes within a month. The amendment broadens the definition of ‘victim’ to encompass the guardian or legal heir of someone affected by
Govt doctors in Haryana go on strike for second time in a week
Haryana government doctors initiated a strike on Friday, pushing for a specialist cadre formation and reduced bond amounts for postgraduate courses. Outpatient department (OPD) services were affected in some hospitals. This marks the second strike within the week, following the doctors’ initial walkout on Wednesday.
Nitish Kumar elected JD(U) president
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar clinched the Janata Dal (United) presidency during the Friday national executive meeting, succeeding Lalan Singh, who graciously proposed Kumar’s nomination. Party leader K C Tyagi disclosed these developments. The decisions made in the executive meeting are anticipated to be officially approved later at the national council meeting. Insider sources indicate widespread support within the party for Kumar, seen as its leading figure, to assume control during the crucial period preceding the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. It’s noteworthy that the Janata Dal (United) is affiliated with the opposition INDIA bloc, marking a significant political alignment.
ERC launches humanitarian initiative during Zayed Charity Marathon in Egypt
In a joint effort, the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) and Egypt’s Misr El Kheir Foundation initiated a humanitarian project at the Zayed Charity Marathon in Egypt. This initiative involved the distribution of food parcels to 15,000 recipients located in the Giza and Fayoum Governorates, as well as Helwan in the Southern Area of Cairo.
At least 100 flights delayed due to fog at Delhi airport
At least 100 flights were delayed and a few were canceled due to low visibility at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on Friday. Airlines have requested passengers to keep a check on the status of flights on airline websites before leaving for the airport. Passengers who arrived at the airport but were not aware of the delays were seen sitting on the floors and waiting for an update from the airline.
Delhi: Rehearsals for 75th Republic Day parade kick-off
Preparations for the 75th Republic Day parade commenced in the national capital on Friday, with security forces conducting rehearsals despite the winter chill and foggy conditions near India Gate and Kartavya Path. As part of the lead-up to the upcoming Republic Day festivities, Delhi Police and security agencies are conducting mock drills at crucial installations and market areas. These exercises aim to enhance anti-terrorism measures and raise public awareness to remain vigilant.
