June 11, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: National

Maruti Suzuki Slashes e-Vitara EV Production by Two-Thirds Amid Rare Earth Shortage

Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest car manufacturer, has drastically scaled down its short-term production targets for its first electric vehicle, the e-Vitara, by nearly two-thirds, according to a report by Reuters. The company initially planned to produce around 26,500 units of the e-Vitara between April and September 2025, but has now revised that figure to just 8,200 units. Supply Chain Crisis Tied to Rare Earth Shortage The sharp cutback is attributed to a shortage of rare earth materials, as detailed in an internal company document accessed by Reuters. These materials are essential for the production of electric motors, especially for magnets and high-tech components used in EVs. The shortage has been further aggravated by China’s export restrictions, causing widespread disruption in the global automotive supply chain. Long-Term Target Remains Unchanged Despite the immediate setback, Maruti Suzuki has reaffirmed its annual production target of 67,000 electric vehicles for the fiscal year ending March 2026. The company plans to make up for the shortfall in the second half of the fiscal year, with revised production goals set at 58,728 units from October to March, up from the previously planned 40,437 units during that period. Strategic Importance of the e-Vitara The e-Vitara, first revealed at India’s premier auto show in January 2025, is a key component of Maruti Suzuki’s electric mobility strategy in India. It also aligns with the Indian government’s vision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which aims to increase EV penetration to 30% of total car sales by 2030, compared to just 2.5% last year. Global Implications This reduction in output may also impact Suzuki Motor Corporation, Maruti’s parent company, given that India is its largest market by revenue and serves as a central EV production hub. A significant number of e-Vitara units manufactured in India are slated for export to Europe and Japan, especially starting summer 2025. While the short-term outlook has been tempered by supply limitations, Maruti Suzuki appears committed to ramping up EV production in the months ahead to meet its strategic and global objectives.

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Editor03 mins

Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder: Crime Branch Reveals Chilling Conspiracy Behind Raja Raghuvanshi’s Death

In a chilling development in the murder case of 26-year-old Raja Raghuvanshi, Crime Branch officers from Madhya Pradesh have revealed that the murder was allegedly planned just days after Raja’s wedding to Sonam Raghuvanshi. The prime suspect, 21-year-old Raj Kushwaha—who worked at Sonam’s family’s plywood business—was arrested in Indore, while Sonam surrendered in Uttar Pradesh. Murder Allegedly Planned Soon After Marriage According to investigators, Kushwaha and Sonam allegedly conspired to eliminate Raja during the couple’s honeymoon in Meghalaya. Authorities believe Sonam provided Raja’s location to the hired killers, who then tracked the couple down during their trip. Meanwhile, Kushwaha remained in Indore to maintain an alibi and was even seen comforting Sonam’s father during Raja’s funeral, further raising suspicions. Hired Killers Followed the Couple to Meghalaya Police have identified three more accused—Vishal Chauhan, Akash Rajput, and Anand Kurmi—who were allegedly hired by Kushwaha to carry out the murder. The trio reportedly traveled to Guwahati by train and then proceeded to Meghalaya. The breakthrough in the case came when a local guide informed the Meghalaya police that he had seen Sonam walking behind Raja and the three men near the suspected murder site. Murder Weapon and Motive Under Investigation The murder weapon—a dao, a type of machete—also raised red flags, as it was not typical of the area. Police believe it was possibly procured in Guwahati. Investigators suspect that Sonam and Kushwaha maintained constant communication in the days leading up to the murder, which contributed to the Crime Branch’s suspicions. Additional DCP (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya confirmed that the suspects traveled via Bihar before reaching Guwahati and ultimately Meghalaya. A seven-day transit remand was granted to Shillong police. The fourth accused, Anand Kurmi, is being brought to Indore from Bina in Sagar district. Family Raises Further Allegations Against Sonam Raja’s brother, Vipin Raghuvanshi, expressed shock and said he had never met Kushwaha, though he had heard of his frequent conversations with Sonam. He added that the couple initially planned to visit the Maa Kamakhya Temple in Assam before heading to Shillong but had no confirmed return tickets. Raja’s mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, alleged that Sonam insisted on planning the honeymoon herself and took Rs 9 lakh from Raja to arrange the trip. She also accused Sonam of convincing Raja to carry expensive jewellery, which went against the family’s wishes. Furthermore, Uma claimed Raja had doubts about Sonam’s affection for him even before the wedding, but later, Sonam started engaging more with Raja—possibly to gain his trust and proceed with the honeymoon plan. Investigation Ongoing The case has sent shockwaves across the country, with law enforcement continuing to investigate financial transactions, phone records, and the sequence of events. Authorities are now probing whether Sonam arranged the payments for the killers and what role each accused played in the crime.

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Editor05 mins

Kerala Faces Twin Health Crises: Hepatitis Outbreak Escalates Amid Rising COVID-19 Cases

As Kerala battles a renewed rise in COVID-19 infections, the state is now confronting a fast-spreading hepatitis outbreak, with Thrissur district emerging as the epicentre. The sudden spike in hepatitis cases, particularly Hepatitis A and E, has triggered widespread alarm among residents and strained the already-burdened healthcare infrastructure. Officials Sound Alarm Over Water and Food Hygiene District Medical Officer Dr. T.P. Sreedevi has issued an urgent advisory urging the public to take strict hygiene precautions, emphasizing: “Only boiled and properly treated water should be consumed. Avoid stale food entirely.” Hotels and eateries have been specifically asked to serve only boiled water and prevent the mixing of hot and cold water, as the virus spreads through contaminated food and water — a risk that increases during the monsoon season. Recognizing the Symptoms of Hepatitis The incubation period for hepatitis viruses typically ranges from 15 to 60 days after exposure. Common symptoms include: Urgent Public Health Recommendations To prevent further spread, officials have outlined clear precautionary measures: ✅ Drink only boiled or purified water✅ Avoid eating outside, especially roadside or stale food✅ Practice regular handwashing✅ Trim nails and maintain personal hygiene✅ Proper disposal of human waste✅ Seek medical help immediately if experiencing diarrhoea or other symptoms — avoid self-medication People are also urged to remain extra vigilant during festivals or travel, when exposure to contaminated food or water is more likely. Preparing for the Monsoon Surge With the monsoon season approaching, health experts warn of a potential increase in waterborne infections. The Kerala Health Department has already released disease prevention guidelines, urging people to remain alert and act swiftly at the first sign of symptoms. Though the situation is serious, timely awareness, responsible hygiene practices, and immediate medical attention can significantly reduce transmission and help manage the dual threat of COVID-19 and hepatitis.

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Editor03 mins

Starlink Set to Launch in India with ₹3,000 Monthly Plans and ₹33,000 Hardware Cost

Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, is making significant strides toward launching its services in India, with operations expected to begin within the next 12 months. According to CNBC Awaaz, the service is likely to be priced at ₹3,000 per month for unlimited data, with a one-time receiver kit cost of ₹33,000. This development comes after Starlink received a key operating licence from India’s Ministry of Telecommunications on June 6, putting it in direct competition with Bharti Airtel’s OneWeb and Reliance Jio’s satellite arm, which are also authorized to offer satellite-based broadband services in the country. Aimed at Rural Connectivity with LEO Technology Starlink will provide 600–700 Gbps of bandwidth via its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. The service is expected to primarily cater to rural and remote regions, where traditional broadband infrastructure such as fiber-optic networks and mobile connectivity remains patchy or unavailable. Although India is known for some of the world’s lowest data tariffs, Starlink is positioning itself as a premium connectivity solution in underserved areas. Revised Pricing Reflects Regional Parity Earlier estimates by former Starlink India head Sanjay Bhargava had pegged the first-year cost at ₹1.58 lakh, dropping to ₹1.15 lakh in subsequent years. The updated pricing aligns with Starlink’s rollout in Bangladesh, where customers pay the equivalent of ₹3,000 per month with a ₹33,000 equipment cost, totaling about ₹66,000 in the first year. Regulatory Approvals Still Pending While the operational licence is a major milestone, Starlink must still secure spectrum allocation, pending final recommendations from TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) and approval by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Expanding Across Asia Starlink is already operational in Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, offering Residential Lite plans priced between ₹2,600 to ₹3,000 per month, and Standard plans that can go up to ₹6,000 depending on the country. With its India debut on the horizon, Starlink is poised to reshape connectivity options for millions living in digitally dark zones.

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Editor03 mins

Nine-Year-Old Girl Found Dead in Delhi; Accused Neighbor on the Run

In a deeply disturbing case reported from northeast Delhi’s Dayalpur area, a nine-year-old girl was found dead under suspicious circumstances on Saturday evening. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with police confirming that the primary suspect is a 30-year-old neighbor who has since gone into hiding. According to officials, the child—a student of Class 5—had left home around 7 p.m. to deliver ice to a nearby relative. On her way, she was allegedly approached by the accused, who asked her to bring back house keys he claimed to have dropped on the road. Locals suspect this was a deliberate attempt to lure the child. When the girl failed to return, her family launched a search. About 30 minutes later, a relative reported having seen her enter a nearby building. Upon reaching the second-floor flat where the accused resided, they found it locked. A man claiming to be the accused’s brother promised to fetch the key from a local shop but fled the scene when accompanied by a family member. Suspicious of foul play, the family broke into the locked flat and found a suitcase inside, which contained the child’s unresponsive body with visible injuries. She was rushed to a nearby nursing facility, where doctors declared her dead on arrival. Preliminary observations from medical staff indicated trauma and alleged abuse. Joint Commissioner of Police (East) Vijay Kumar said the police were informed at 8:41 p.m., and a case was registered under sections related to serious harm and child protection laws. An autopsy report is awaited to confirm the exact cause of death, though police suspect suffocation or similar causes. The accused, identified as a married man originally from Hapur in Uttar Pradesh and working as a mini-goods vehicle driver, is currently absconding. Multiple police teams are conducting raids to locate him. The incident has triggered protests in the locality. On Saturday night, residents reportedly vandalized the accused’s property. On Sunday, around 200 people staged a protest at Dayalpur Nala Road, causing traffic disruptions. Security forces, including personnel from the Tripura State Rifles, have been deployed to maintain order. Political leaders have also weighed in. Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal criticized the current administration for a deteriorating law and order situation. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva condemned the crime and urged swift justice but accused the opposition of politicizing the tragedy. The young girl is survived by her parents, grandparents, and two younger brothers.

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Editor04 mins

सुकमा में नक्सली हमले में एएसपी की शहादत: सीएम और डिप्टी सीएम ने जताया शोक, बदले की चेतावनी

छत्तीसगढ़ के सुकमा ज़िले में सोमवार को नक्सलियों द्वारा लगाए गए IED विस्फोट में अतिरिक्त पुलिस अधीक्षक (कांटा डिवीजन) आकाश राव गिरेपुंजे शहीद हो गए, जबकि दो अन्य पुलिस अधिकारी घायल हो गए। यह घटना डोंड्रा गांव के पास तब हुई जब ASP और उनकी टीम एक जली हुई मशीन की सूचना मिलने पर पैदल गश्त कर रही थी। पुलिस के अनुसार, जैसे ही जवान मौके पर पहुंचे, वहां पूर्व-नियोजित IED विस्फोट हुआ। इस हमले में एसडीओपी भानुप्रताप चंद्राकर और थाना प्रभारी सोनल गवाला भी घायल हो गए। सभी को तत्काल उपचार के लिए कांटा अस्पताल पहुंचाया गया, जहां गिरेपुंजे की गंभीर हालत के चलते उन्हें बचाया नहीं जा सका। 42 वर्षीय आकाश राव गिरेपुंजे रायपुर जिले के निवासी थे और 2013 बैच के राज्य पुलिस सेवा के अधिकारी थे। वह मन्हपुर-मोहला और सुकमा जैसे संवेदनशील नक्सल प्रभावित इलाकों में तैनात रह चुके थे और बहादुर अफसरों में गिने जाते थे। मुख्यमंत्री विष्णु देव साय ने X (पूर्व ट्विटर) पर शोक जताते हुए कहा, “यह बेहद दुखद है। मैं उनके शौर्य को नमन करता हूं।” उन्होंने यह भी कहा कि “नक्सलियों को इस कायराना हमले की कीमत चुकानी होगी और जल्द ही छत्तीसगढ़ से उनका अस्तित्व मिटा दिया जाएगा।” राज्य के गृह मंत्री और उप मुख्यमंत्री विजय शर्मा ने भी गिरेपुंजे की शहादत को नमन करते हुए कहा, “सरकार नहीं चाहती कि एक भी गोली चले, लेकिन नक्सली मुख्यधारा में लौटें और पुनर्वास योजना का लाभ उठाकर समाज के विकास में भागीदार बनें।” घायल अधिकारियों की हालत अब स्थिर बताई गई है और उन्हें आगे के इलाज के लिए रायपुर एयरलिफ्ट किया गया है। वहीं, शहीद गिरेपुंजे के पार्थिव शरीर को पूरे राजकीय सम्मान और गार्ड ऑफ ऑनर के साथ अंतिम संस्कार के लिए रायपुर लाया जा रहा है। पुलिस विभाग की ओर से जारी बयान में कहा गया, “शहीद गिरेपुंजे का बलिदान हमारे संकल्प को और दृढ़ करेगा कि हम माओवादी संगठन जैसे निर्दयी और षड्यंत्रकारी तंत्र को पूरी तरह समाप्त कर देंगे।”

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Editor01 mins

Saudi Arabia Suspends Block Work Visas for 14 Countries Ahead of Hajj 2025, Citing Security and Administrative Concerns

In a significant policy shift ahead of the Hajj 2025 pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, and Turkey. The decision, effective from May 2025, is reportedly driven by security and administrative concerns, particularly regarding the misuse of visas for unauthorized Hajj participation. Affected Countries: What Are Block Work Visas? Block work visas are typically bulk pre-approved visas issued by Saudi authorities to Gulf-based companies, allowing them to hire foreign workers—commonly for domestic work, hospitality, and construction sectors. These visas form the backbone of workforce planning for many companies, especially during seasonal spikes in labour demand. The suspension has alarmed employers who rely on this hiring model, particularly those engaged in preparation for the high-demand Hajj season. Industries that depend on short-term labour influxes may now face significant disruptions. Unauthorised Hajj Entry: A Core Issue The main concern, according to sources, is the rising trend of individuals entering the Kingdom on work, visit, or Umrah visas and then participating in the Hajj without the required Hajj permit. This practice created serious crowding and overwhelmed health and safety infrastructure during the 2024 pilgrimage. To prevent similar challenges this year, Saudi authorities have opted to enforce stricter visa and entry controls, aiming to ensure that only those with valid, official Hajj visas are allowed to undertake the pilgrimage. Although no formal statement has been released by Saudi officials, the suspension aligns with the Kingdom’s broader objective of maintaining order, safety, and proper logistical management during one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings. Labour Market Implications The temporary ban has no defined timeline for resumption, creating uncertainty for companies that rely on semi-skilled and seasonal workers from the affected countries. Employers may now be compelled to: The move could also impact remittance flows and migrant workers’ job prospects in affected countries, especially during the peak Hajj and summer employment season. Looking Ahead While the policy aims to tighten control over pilgrimage management, it has sparked concerns over transparency and timing, especially in labour-supplying nations. It remains to be seen whether the Kingdom will provide further clarity or introduce alternative pathways for worker mobility in the coming months. As the Hajj approaches, this decision underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring a safe and streamlined pilgrimage, even if it comes at a temporary cost to labour market flexibility.

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Editor04 mins

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar firmly reiterated New Delhi’s stance on terrorism during talks with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar firmly reiterated New Delhi’s stance on terrorism during talks with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, stating that India will not tolerate any equivalence between perpetrators of terrorism and their victims. His remarks come amid apparent frustration in New Delhi over international attempts to “hyphenate” India and Pakistan, particularly following last month’s military clashes between the two countries. Key Highlights from Jaishankar-Lammy Meeting: Strategic Outlook: The tone of the Jaishankar-Lammy talks highlights India’s growing assertiveness on the international stage, especially when it comes to terrorism emanating from across its western border. While economic cooperation between India and the UK is deepening, diplomatic sensitivities around security and counter-terrorism remain a flashpoint, particularly when Western powers appear to equate India’s sovereign defensive actions with Pakistan’s support for non-state actors. Lammy’s visit also signals the UK’s post-Brexit strategy to strengthen bilateral ties with major Indo-Pacific players like India, even as it navigates complex geopolitical sensitivities in South Asia.

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Editor04 mins

Canadian PM Mark Carney Defends Modi’s G7 Invite Amid Ongoing Murder Probe, Sparks Backlash from Sikh Community

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has defended his controversial decision to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming G7 summit in Alberta, despite ongoing investigations linking the Indian government to the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. Carney, speaking to reporters on Friday, avoided directly addressing questions about whether he believed Modi had any involvement in Nijjar’s killing. “There is a legal process that is literally under way and quite advanced in Canada, and it’s never appropriate to make comments with respect to those legal processes,” he said. The murder of Nijjar, a prominent Sikh separatist leader, in Surrey, British Columbia, sent shockwaves through the Indo-Canadian community and strained diplomatic ties between the two nations. Four Indian nationals living in Canada have been charged in connection with the June 2023 killing, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have concluded that the operation was directed by “the highest levels” of the Indian government. Despite these developments, Carney emphasized India’s global significance as a rationale for the invitation. “India is the fifth-largest economy in the world, the most populous country, and central to supply chains. It is essential to engage with its leadership on critical issues such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals,” he explained. He confirmed that Modi had accepted the invitation and would attend the G7 summit, scheduled for June 15–17 in Kananaskis, Alberta. In response, Prime Minister Modi issued a diplomatic statement, expressing optimism about future ties. “As vibrant democracies bound by deep people-to-people ties, India and Canada will work together with renewed vigour, guided by mutual respect and shared interests. Look forward to our meeting at the summit,” he said. However, Carney’s move has triggered intense backlash from the World Sikh Organization (WSO) and other advocacy groups. WSO President Danish Singh called the invitation “a betrayal of core Canadian values.” He criticized the government for offering Modi a red-carpet welcome while India continues to deny involvement in Nijjar’s murder and refuses to fully cooperate with Canadian investigators. “For Sikhs in Canada, this is a betrayal, not just of our community, but of Canadian justice. We would never extend such hospitality to leaders from Russia, China, or Iran under similar allegations,” Singh said. Last year, both countries expelled senior diplomats over the murder case, with Canadian law enforcement also linking India to gang violence and foreign interference activities within Canada. Carney’s invitation to Modi comes as his newly elected government seeks to repair strained relations with other international partners. On Thursday, he held a call with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, where both sides agreed to “regularize channels of communication” after ongoing trade disputes caused significant losses, particularly in seafood, EVs, and agricultural goods. Carney is also working to mend ties with the United States. Ongoing negotiations with President Donald Trump’s administration aim to end a trade war that has seen steep tariffs imposed on Canadian steel and aluminum. Ontario Premier Doug Ford confirmed that Carney is in “deep, deep discussions” with Trump’s team — a development echoed by Canada’s industry minister. While the government continues to prioritize diplomacy and economic cooperation, critics argue that principles of justice and sovereignty are being compromised. As the G7 summit approaches, pressure is mounting on Carney to clarify Canada’s position on human rights and foreign interference — and whether such considerations truly guide its foreign policy decisions.

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Editor06 mins

Manipur Suspends Internet Services in Five Districts Amid Fresh Unrest Over Arambai Tenggol Arrests

Amid renewed unrest in Manipur over the reported arrest of leaders from the Meitei organisation Arambai Tenggol, the state government has suspended internet and mobile data services, including VSAT and VPN, in five districts for five days starting today. The affected districts are Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur. Tensions escalated late Saturday as protesters took to the streets in areas such as Kwakeithel and Uripok in Imphal, demanding the release of the detained individuals. Demonstrators set fire to tyres and discarded furniture, leading to clashes with security forces. Security personnel were deployed in large numbers, and several rounds of warning gunfire were reportedly fired to disperse the crowds. The violence resulted in injuries to at least two journalists and one civilian during an attack on the Kwakeithel police outpost. In an official order, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar stated that the suspension of internet services was necessary in light of the prevailing law and order situation. He expressed concern that anti-social elements might exploit social media platforms to spread inflammatory content, including hate speech and disturbing videos, which could incite public unrest. “There is an imminent danger of loss of life and/or damage to public and private property, along with widespread disturbances to public tranquillity and communal harmony, as a result of false rumours and provocative content circulated via social media, SMS, and other digital platforms,” the order further stated. The government’s decision aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain peace in the region as tensions continue to simmer.

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Editor03 mins
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