A.G. Perarivalan Enrols as Advocate at Madras High Court

 

Chennai, April 29:

A. G. Perarivalan, who spent over three decades in prison in connection with the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, has now enrolled as an advocate and will practice at the Madras High Court.

Perarivalan, now 54, formally enrolled with the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on Monday, marking a transition from being an accused and convict within the legal system to becoming a practicing lawyer in the same system.

He stated that his years in prison since 1991 have shaped his perspective, and he intends to focus on cases related to wrongful detention, delays in the justice system, and the rights of undertrial prisoners. He also expressed his intention to provide legal assistance to inmates who lack adequate representation.

Perarivalan was arrested at the age of 19 in connection with the 1991 assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, an attack attributed to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. The allegation against him was that he procured a nine-volt battery, which was later used in the improvised explosive device involved in the assassination. This claim was supported by testimony from a shopkeeper during the investigation.

The case was registered under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA). In 1998, a TADA court convicted Perarivalan and others for conspiracy to murder, awarding him the death sentence. The conviction and sentence were upheld by the Supreme Court of India in 1999.

In 2014, the Supreme Court commuted his death sentence to life imprisonment, citing an 11-year delay by the Government of India in deciding his mercy petition. After spending over 30 years in custody, including a prolonged period on death row, Perarivalan was released in May 2022. The Supreme Court ordered his release by invoking its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, taking into account delays in the executive process and other relevant factors.

During his imprisonment, Perarivalan pursued education, completing diploma and degree courses in computer applications and literature. After his release, he completed his legal studies, which enabled his enrolment as an advocate.

With his entry into the legal profession, Perarivalan is expected to work on issues concerning prisoners’ rights and access to justice, drawing on his personal experience within the criminal justice system.

Raghav Chadha Joins BJP, Big Blow to AAP

 

New Delhi, April 24:

In a significant political development, Raghav Chadha has officially announced his decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party, triggering a major split within the Aam Aadmi Party. The move is being seen as a substantial blow to AAP leadership, particularly party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Addressing a press conference, Chadha stated that a large section of AAP’s presence in the Rajya Sabha, reportedly around two-thirds of its 10 MPs, will merge with the BJP. He confirmed that the necessary documents have been signed and submitted to the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, formalizing the transition.

Among those expected to join him are Harbhajan Singh and Swati Maliwal, along with Rajinder Gupta, Vikram Sahney, Ashok Mittal, and Sandeep Pathak. The development indicates one of the largest parliamentary shifts involving AAP since its formation.

Explaining his decision, Chadha delivered a sharp critique of his former party, alleging that AAP has strayed from its founding principles. He stated that the party, once built on anti-corruption and transparency, has become “corrupt and compromised.” Calling himself “the right man in the wrong party,” he said his move reflects a desire to reconnect with public expectations and governance priorities.

Picture from the press conference.

Sources suggest that Chadha’s entry into the BJP could be followed by a significant role at the national level, with speculation about a possible ministerial position gaining traction.

Chadha, a founding member of AAP since 2012, rose to prominence as a close aide to Kejriwal and played a key role in the party’s rise to power in Delhi in 2015. His departure marks a turning point for the party’s national ambitions and internal cohesion.

The BJP has not yet released a detailed statement on the development, but party insiders have welcomed the move, describing it as an endorsement of the BJP’s leadership and governance model.

The defection is expected to reshape the balance within the Rajya Sabha and intensify political contestation ahead of upcoming elections. For AAP, the loss of senior leadership and MPs may pose immediate organizational and strategic challenges.

Iran War Impact: LPG Prices Up Rs 60 for Homes, Rs 115 Commercial

 

The price of domestic Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders has been increased across India with effect from Saturday, March 7, adding to the financial burden on households and businesses. According to sources, the cost of a standard 14.2-kg household cooking gas cylinder has been raised by Rs 60.

Following the latest revision, the price of a 14.2-kg non-subsidised domestic LPG cylinder in Delhi has increased to Rs 913, up from the earlier price of Rs 853. The hike comes as part of periodic adjustments made by oil marketing companies in response to global energy price trends and other market factors.

In addition to domestic cylinders, the price of commercial LPG cylinders has also been increased. A 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder, commonly used by hotels, restaurants and small food businesses, has become costlier by Rs 115. The increase is expected to raise operating costs for many businesses in the hospitality and food service sector.

Despite the price hike, beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana will continue to receive a subsidy of Rs 300 per cylinder. The scheme, launched by the Government of India to provide clean cooking fuel to economically weaker households, aims to reduce the financial burden of LPG usage for eligible families.

Industry observers say the revision in LPG prices is partly linked to fluctuations in global crude oil and gas prices. Tensions and conflicts in the Middle East, including the ongoing situation involving Iran, have contributed to uncertainties in international energy markets. Since India imports a significant portion of its LPG requirements, changes in global supply and transportation costs often influence domestic pricing.

The latest increase is likely to impact both household budgets and commercial establishments across the country, especially at a time when many families and small businesses are already dealing with rising living and operational costs. Oil marketing companies periodically review LPG prices based on international benchmarks, exchange rates and transportation expenses.

The price revision has once again sparked discussions on fuel affordability and the broader impact of global geopolitical developments on domestic energy costs in India.

Centre to Launch Nationwide HPV Vaccination Drive Targeting 14-Year-Old Girls More informative and SEO-friendly

 

New Delhi, February 26, 2026:

The Government of India is set to launch a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign on February 28, targeting 14-year-old girls as part of a major public health initiative to prevent cervical cancer. The programme, to be rolled out in coordination with state governments, marks a significant step toward strengthening preventive healthcare and reducing cancer-related mortality among women.

According to officials from the Union Health Ministry, the campaign will provide free HPV vaccines through government health facilities and school-based outreach programmes. The initiative is expected to complement existing adolescent immunization efforts and expand coverage across both urban and rural areas.

Targeting Adolescent Girls

Health experts emphasize that administering the HPV vaccine at an early adolescent age offers the most effective protection against the virus before potential exposure. By focusing on 14-year-old girls, the programme aims to ensure maximum immunity during the critical early years.

Officials stated that state health departments will conduct awareness drives in schools and communities to inform parents and guardians about the benefits and safety of the vaccine. Special emphasis will be placed on ensuring access in rural and remote regions, where awareness and healthcare infrastructure gaps can pose challenges.

Why HPV Vaccination Matters

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection and is recognized as the leading cause of cervical cancer worldwide. In India, cervical cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women, with thousands of new cases reported annually. Public health authorities believe that widespread immunization can significantly reduce future disease burden, treatment costs, and preventable deaths.

Medical experts note that early vaccination, combined with regular screening in adulthood, can dramatically lower the incidence of cervical cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently recommended HPV vaccination as a key strategy in global efforts to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem.

The vaccine has been widely administered in several countries and is considered safe and effective. Indian health authorities have reiterated that the rollout will adhere to established safety guidelines and monitoring protocols.

Implementation Strategy

The nationwide campaign will be implemented through coordination between the central government and state health departments. Vaccination will be offered at government hospitals, community health centres, and designated school-based camps. Officials indicated that detailed operational guidelines and distribution schedules will be issued alongside the formal launch.

Awareness campaigns are expected to play a crucial role in the programme’s success. Health workers, including ASHA and Anganwadi personnel, will likely be involved in community outreach efforts to address misconceptions and encourage participation.

The initiative is also expected to strengthen adolescent health services under broader national health programmes aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes.

Long-Term Public Health Impact

India continues to record a significant number of cervical cancer cases each year, placing both emotional and financial strain on families. Authorities believe that large-scale HPV immunization can substantially reduce future disease incidence and healthcare costs.

By integrating the HPV vaccine into national immunization efforts, the government aims to create long-term protection for future generations. Officials have expressed confidence that sustained awareness, community cooperation, and effective monitoring will ensure high coverage rates and measurable impact over time.

With the formal launch scheduled for February 28, the nationwide HPV vaccination drive represents a major preventive health initiative. If successfully implemented, the programme could play a critical role in reducing cervical cancer cases and strengthening India’s broader public health framework.

PM Narendra Modi Receives Speaker of the Knesset Medal in Israel

 

Israel, February 26, 2026:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal,” the highest parliamentary honour of Israel’s Knesset, during his official visit to the country in February 2026. The medal was presented by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana following the Prime Minister’s address to the Israeli Parliament.

According to official statements, the honour recognises Modi’s role in strengthening India–Israel relations and advancing cooperation in areas such as security, innovation, agriculture and technology. Israeli leaders highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, describing bilateral ties as increasingly robust and multifaceted.

In his address, Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Israel and emphasised shared democratic values, economic cooperation and people-to-people engagement. The visit also included discussions on regional security, technological partnerships and future investment opportunities.

The Speaker of the Knesset Medal is awarded by Israel’s Parliament to individuals who have made significant contributions to relations with the country or to international cooperation. Officials noted that Modi is among the prominent global leaders to receive the recognition.

India and Israel have expanded diplomatic and strategic engagement in recent years, with growing collaboration across defence, agriculture, water management, cyber security and start-up ecosystems.

DCM Chowna Mein Calls on Sri Lankan Ministers Along with Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, along with the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel, called on Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath and Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe during an official meeting.

The discussion focused on the strengthening of India-Sri Lanka bilateral relations under the leadership of Narendra Modi, including India’s timely support to Sri Lanka during its recent economic crisis.

The leaders also highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual ties between the two countries, particularly through Theravada Buddhism. The long-standing exchange of Theravada monks between Namsai and Sri Lanka for teachings and discourses on Abhidhamma was recalled as a strong symbol of shared heritage.

Deputy CM Chowna Mein and MP Governor Mangubhai Patel with Sri Lankan Ministers Vijitha Herath and Ruwan Ranasinghe during an official meeting.

DCM Chowna Mein highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural, spiritual and eco-tourism potential, emphasising opportunities for enhanced cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.

The meeting was attended by Acting High Commissioner at Colombo Satyanjal Pandey, Counsellor (Economic and Commerce) Devika Lal, First Secretary (Political) Navya Singla, and First Secretary (Economic and Commerce) Saurabh Sabhlok from the High Commission of India.

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