THE CLIFF NEWS

The Karate Black Belt Burglar Who Eluded Police for Years Finally Falls Bengaluru, February 5, 2025 – A dreaded burglar who evaded police in multiple states was finally caught by Bengaluru cops in just 10 days, setting a new record. Panchakshari Sangayya Swamy, 37, a second-degree karate black belt, has been involved in over 200 house burglaries across Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Gujarat. Despite his long criminal career, Bengaluru turned out to be his downfall. The Heist That Led to His Capture On January 9, Swamy broke into a businessman’s house in Maruthi Nagar, Madiwala, and made off with Rs 12.25 lakh worth of jewellery. Acting swiftly, Madiwala police scanned 200 CCTV cameras, tracing his movements to Maharashtra. When Bengaluru police shared his photos with their Maharashtra counterparts, he was instantly identified. “Swamy’s criminal history was a revelation. Even the Mumbai Crime Branch was amazed that we caught him so quickly,” said an investigator. A High-Stakes Chase Ends in Bengaluru Police launched an eight-day manhunt across Maharashtra and Karnataka, only to find Swamy had returned to Bengaluru to commit another burglary. On January 19, officers nabbed him at KSR Bengaluru station, marking his fastest-ever arrest. Swamy’s Criminal Playbook A Lavish Life Funded by Crime Despite multiple jail terms, including five years in Gujarat’s Sabarmati Jail, Swamy led a lavish lifestyle: Swamy, who is married with a child, has been disowned by his Assamese wife. Bengaluru police are now investigating his criminal network, suspecting links to other burglaries and gold smuggling operations.

Telugu actress Samyuktha, known for her roles in multiple blockbusters, recently embraced a spiritual journey by taking a holy dip at Triveni Sangamam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Like many devotees and celebrities, she participated in the Maha Kumbh Mela, a grand religious gathering that takes place every 12 years. Sharing her experience on Instagram, Samyuktha posted pictures of herself in a black kurta, performing the ritualistic plunge into the Ganga and offering prayers to the Sun God. Expressing her deep connection with Indian traditions, she wrote, “Life unfurls its meaning when we glimpse the vastness beyond it. I cherish my culture for its boundless spirit, ever nourishing the stream of consciousness, like a sacred dip in the Ganga at Mahakumbh.” Apart from her spiritual pursuits, Samyuktha continues to shine in the film industry. She is one of the leads in Akhanda 2, directed by Boyapati Srinu, which is currently filming at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Her upcoming projects also include Swayambhu, Naari Naari Naduma Murari (starring Sharwanand), and Haindava. Her immersion in cultural and spiritual experiences reflects her dedication to preserving traditions while balancing a successful acting career.

Noted South Indian actress Pushpalatha passed away on February 5 in Chennai at the age of 87 after a prolonged illness. With a distinguished career spanning multiple decades, she acted in over 100 films across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema. Pushpalatha made her Tamil film debut in 1958 with Senkkottai Singam and entered Malayalam cinema in 1969 with Nurse, directed by Thikkurissi Sukumaran Nair. She gained recognition for her performances in notable films such as Sarada, Paar Magaley Paar, Naanum Oru Penn, Yarukku Sontham, Thaaye Unakkaga, Karpooram, Jeevanaamsam, Dharisanam, Kalyanaraman, Sakalakala Vallavan, Simla Special, and Puthu Vellam. The actress shared screen space with legendary stars like M.G. Ramachandran, Sivaji Ganesan, Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan. Some of her most memorable roles include her performances in Rajinikanth’s Naan Adimai Illai and Kamal Haasan’s Kalyanaraman and Sakalakala Vallavan. Apart from acting, Pushpalatha was a trained Bharatanatyam dancer and also ventured into film production, producing two films. In 1964, she became the face of Lux soap advertisements, further solidifying her public presence. Her personal life was deeply connected to the film industry. She fell in love with actor and producer AVM Rajan during the shooting of Naanum Oru Penn, and the two later got married. The couple had two daughters, including Tamil actress Mahalakshmi. Her final silver screen appearance was in the 1999 film Poovasam, directed by Sree Bharathi. Following her retirement from cinema, Pushpalatha dedicated her later years to spirituality and social service, stepping away from the limelight. Her passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of actors and cinema lovers.

Multi-Layered Security, Real-Time Traffic Monitoring, and Improved Visitor Facilities in Place Bengaluru, February 5, 2025 – Preparations are in full swing at the Yelahanka Air Force Station for Aero India 2025, with real-time traffic monitoring, multi-layered security, and enhanced visitor facilities ensuring a seamless experience for attendees. Traffic and Transport Management To prevent congestion, approach roads to the venue have been widened, and separate entry and exit points have been designated. Additionally, AC Volvo shuttle buses will operate from key locations, including: Security Measures Authorities have established “Red Drone Zones” with countermeasures to prevent unauthorized drone activity. Rapid Mobile Units will be deployed for quick emergency response, and the vast event area will be under 24/7 surveillance with disaster management and fire safety teams on standby. Flight restrictions will also be in place to bolster security. Enhanced Visitor Experience To improve comfort and accessibility, authorities have introduced:✅ Expanded exhibition halls with better ventilation✅ Additional seating and rest areas✅ Extra food courts, including Indira Canteens in parking areas✅ Improved signage and navigation aids✅ More medical aid stations, ATM kiosks, and lost-and-found counters✅ 100+ electric karts for easy movement within exhibition areas Digital Infrastructure To ensure uninterrupted connectivity, temporary mobile towers and network boosters will be installed. A dedicated mobile app will provide live updates and navigation assistance to attendees. With these comprehensive measures, Aero India 2025 is set to offer an efficient, secure, and visitor-friendly experience at Yelahanka Air Force Station.

Says “Not a Very Big Incident” as Toll Rises to 30, Congress Slams BJP MP Prayagraj, February 5, 2025 – BJP MP Hema Malini has drawn criticism for downplaying the Maha Kumbh stampede, which claimed 30 lives and left over 60 injured. The veteran actress-turned-politician, who took a “very nice bath” at the Triveni Sangam last week, remarked that the incident was being “exaggerated” and praised the Uttar Pradesh government for its handling of the event. “…It was not a very big incident. I don’t know how big it was, but it is being exaggerated,” she said, lauding Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s administration for a “very well-managed” religious gathering. She also seemed to excuse the tragedy, saying, “So many people are coming… it is very difficult to manage.” Her remarks invited a sharp rebuttal from Congress MP Tariq Anwar, who accused the BJP of ignoring the plight of victims. “When she visited, she was given VIP treatment. The police and administration focused on VIPs instead of ensuring safety for common people. If she says this is not a big issue, it is a mockery of the victims,” Anwar stated. The opposition has also accused the UP government of underreporting the actual death toll, alleging a cover-up. Despite the controversy, Hema Malini dismissed the criticism, saying, “The opposition will say what they want… it is their job to say wrong things.” The Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, continues in Prayagraj amid heightened security concerns following the tragic incident.

Cases Also Filed Against Atishi, Dinesh Mohaniya, and Ajay Dutt’s Family Members New Delhi, February 5, 2025 – A case has been registered against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Amanatullah Khan for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) ahead of the Delhi assembly elections. Mr. Khan, the incumbent MLA from Okhla, was found campaigning with over 100 supporters in Zakir Nagar on Tuesday night, violating election norms. The case was filed under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for disobeying public servant orders and Section 126 of The Representation of the People Act, 1951, which prohibits public gatherings 48 hours before polling. Apart from Khan, cases have been registered against: According to police, Ms. Atishi and her supporters interfered with an officer’s work at Fateh Singh Marg, and two AAP members were also booked for assaulting a police constable on duty. Atishi later criticized the Election Commission on X (formerly Twitter), accusing it of bias and claiming that BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri and his family were engaging in “hooliganism” without consequences. Mr. Bidhuri countered by saying Atishi was panicking over her imminent defeat and should respect the dignity of her position. Delhi Polls: AAP vs BJP vs Congress The high-stakes Delhi Assembly elections are being held today, with a triangular contest between the ruling AAP, BJP, and Congress. AAP, led by Arvind Kejriwal, is aiming for a hat-trick victory, while BJP is pushing to seize control of the capital.

Over 3.7 Million Devotees Participate in the Sacred Snan Prayagraj, February 5, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the grand Mahakumbh in Prayagraj today, taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. His visit coincided with Magh Ashtami and Bhishma Ashtami, two highly significant days in Hindu tradition. By 8 AM on Wednesday, over 3.748 million devotees had participated in the sacred snan, including 10 lakh Kalpvasis and 2.748 million pilgrims who arrived in the early hours to seek divine blessings. Following his dip, PM Modi performed Ganga pujan and aarti, further elevating the spiritual aura of the gathering. Sharing glimpses of his experience on X (formerly Twitter), he expressed awe at the profound faith, devotion, and spirituality witnessed at the Mahakumbh. The Mahakumbh, which began on January 13 (Paush Purnima), will conclude on February 26, marking the Mahashivratri Snan—the final and most significant ritual of the event.

China has hit back at the US trade offensive, slapping tariffs on American goods and launching an antitrust probe into Google, just moments after President Donald Trump imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese imports. The move rekindles trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies. China’s Countermeasures Beijing announced a 15% tariff on US coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG), while oil and agricultural equipment will face a 10% levy. Additionally, China has placed Calvin Klein owner PVH Corp. and gene sequencing firm Illumina Inc. on its blacklist of entities and imposed new export controls on tungsten-related materials—a move that could disrupt US supply chains. The State Administration for Market Regulation also revealed a formal investigation into Google, citing antitrust violations—a significant escalation in the ongoing tech battle between the two nations. China Calls Out US Trade Policy In a statement, China’s Finance Ministry condemned Washington’s unilateral tariff hike, arguing it violates WTO rules and damages normal economic cooperation between the two countries. President Xi Jinping’s response appears strategic, designed to inflict economic damage on key US sectors while minimizing domestic impact. By targeting critical minerals and major US firms operating in China, Beijing is signaling its ability to fight back without derailing its own economy. Market Reactions and Trump’s Next Move Despite rising tensions, financial markets remained relatively stable, with Trump hinting at talks with Xi before the tariffs take effect. The US dollar rebounded, while the offshore yuan weakened by 0.3%. Currencies of nations with strong China trade ties, like Australia and New Zealand, fell nearly 1%, while the Thai baht and Indonesian rupiah pared gains. With both sides flexing their economic muscle, the US-China trade war is once again heating up, with global markets watching closely for further escalations or a potential diplomatic breakthrough.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has accused the BJP government of suppressing the real death toll from the Maha Kumbh stampede in Prayagraj on January 29. While the government has reported 30 deaths and 60 injuries, the Opposition claims the actual number is much higher. Demand for Transparency and Accountability Speaking in Lok Sabha during the Budget Session, Yadav demanded official data on the tragedy and called for an all-party meeting to discuss the arrangements and failures of the event. He further urged that disaster management and the lost and found center for Maha Kumbh should be handed over to the Indian Army. Allegations of Evidence Destruction Yadav made a serious allegation, claiming that JCB machines were used at the stampede site to destroy evidence. He insisted that the government reveal the number of deaths, treatment of the injured, and details of medical and logistical arrangements in Parliament. Opposition’s Strong Criticism Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav further alleged that 15,000 people are missing since the incident, with families receiving no information from the government. The Opposition has repeatedly accused the BJP of hiding the truth, demanding strict action against those responsible. Parliament Disruptions Over Maha Kumbh Tragedy On Monday, a united Opposition disrupted both houses of Parliament, demanding an immediate discussion on the Maha Kumbh stampede. The government has yet to respond to allegations of data suppression, intensifying political tensions over the handling of the tragedy.

In a first-of-its-kind deportation since President Donald Trump’s return to office, a US military aircraft carrying Indian migrants has departed for India, a US official told Reuters on Monday. The C-17 military aircraft is expected to land in India within 24 hours. US Expands Military Role in Deportations Under Trump’s administration, the US military has taken a more active role in immigration enforcement, including deploying additional troops to the US-Mexico border, using military facilities to house migrants, and employing military planes for deportations. While similar flights have previously deported migrants to Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras, this marks the first time India has been included in the program since Trump reassumed office. The Pentagon has begun arranging flights to deport over 5,000 migrants detained in El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California, according to Reuters. Trump and Rubio Discuss Immigration With Indian Leaders Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio raised concerns over illegal Indian immigration in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Trump emphasized that he expects India to “do what is right” in accepting the return of undocumented Indian migrants. The White House described the conversation as “productive,” highlighting efforts to strengthen US-India cooperation. Meanwhile, Rubio discussed “irregular immigration” with Jaishankar, who reiterated that India does not support illegal migration. “Illegal immigration is often linked to other unlawful activities. It is neither desirable nor beneficial for our reputation,” Jaishankar said, adding that India is open to accepting verified Indian citizens who entered the US illegally. Deportation Costs and India’s Response Military deportation flights are far more expensive than those operated by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). A recent military deportation flight to Guatemala reportedly cost $4,675 per migrant, according to Reuters. This unprecedented deportation signals a tougher stance on illegal immigration under Trump’s leadership, while also testing India’s diplomatic approach to handling returning migrants.