July 29, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Tag: viralpost

Tensions Escalate as Russia and Ukraine Exchange Deadly Strikes Ahead of Proposed Ceasefire

Overnight strikes between Russia and Ukraine have left at least seven people dead, with violence continuing just days before a proposed ceasefire. Ukrainian officials reported that three civilians were killed and seven injured in Sumy region due to Russian air-dropped bombs, mortars, and rockets targeting villages like Vorozhba and Bilopillia. Emergency evacuations were conducted in the area. Meanwhile, Russian authorities stated that three people were also killed in Ukraine’s retaliatory strikes on Russia’s Kursk region. Ukraine confirmed that some of its forces remain active within Kursk, where it initiated a surprise incursion in August 2024 to protect the Sumy border and gain leverage in future negotiations. Further casualties occurred in the south, where a drone attack on Odesa killed one person, and in Kharkiv, where four were injured by Shahed drone strikes. These incidents underscore the fragility of ceasefire efforts amid escalating hostilities. Amid the violence, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remains open to a longer truce. Speaking during his visit to Prague, he reaffirmed Ukraine’s acceptance of a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the US in March. Zelensky emphasized that such a ceasefire “could start even today” to allow diplomacy to work. However, he dismissed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s unilateral three-day ceasefire proposal from May 8–11 as a “theatrical show,” arguing it was too short to make a meaningful impact. This comes as Russia prepares for Victory Day celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat. The Red Square military parade is traditionally a major display of Kremlin military power. But security concerns prompted Zelensky to warn that he cannot guarantee the safety of foreign dignitaries planning to attend. The war, now in its third year, continues to inflict staggering losses. According to the Russian Service and Mediazona, at least 45,287 Russian soldiers died in 2024, making it the deadliest year for Russian forces since the full-scale invasion began. Analysts estimate that Russia lost 27 soldiers for every square kilometre gained. Names of over 106,000 Russian casualties have been documented, though experts believe this may account for only 45–65% of total deaths. Despite brief ceasefires during Easter and other holidays, both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violations, and no lasting peace appears imminent. As the 72-hour Russian ceasefire nears, skepticism remains high, especially from Kyiv, which sees such gestures as symbolic rather than substantive.

Read More
Editor04 mins

India Reduces Water Flow to Pakistan from Indus System, Advances Hydropower Projects in J&K

In a significant move underscoring rising tensions between India and Pakistan, India has curtailed water flow to Pakistan from the Baglihar Dam on the Chenab River and is preparing to restrict outflows from the Kishanganga project on the Jhelum. These actions follow through on New Delhi’s declared intent to prevent “a single drop” from the Indus river system from reaching Pakistan, amid ongoing regional hostilities and deteriorating bilateral relations. After a week of technical assessments and hydrological testing, Indian authorities initiated de-silting operations at the Baglihar Dam, reducing downstream flow by up to 90%. The sluice gates were lowered as part of this process, a senior National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) official confirmed. A second official, speaking anonymously, stated that the gates were closed on Saturday to begin the reservoir’s refilling process post-de-silting. The Kishanganga Dam, a major hydroelectric facility located in the Gurez valley of the northwestern Himalayas, is next in line for similar maintenance. Flow from the dam to downstream areas will be completely halted during this operation. Pakistan has long expressed concerns over the design and function of both Baglihar and Kishanganga projects. India’s actions came just hours after Pakistan tested a surface-to-surface ballistic missile and after New Delhi suspended the decades-old Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22 that killed dozens of tourists. With the IWT now paused, Indian authorities are exploring all avenues to utilize river waters domestically. The Jal Shakti ministry has reportedly briefed the Union home ministry on upcoming measures to enhance water supply to northern Indian states from the Indus river system. Nearly 50 NHPC engineers have been deployed to Jammu and Kashmir to oversee the ongoing operations. In parallel, India is making rapid progress on four major hydropower projects over the Chenab River and its tributaries in Jammu and Kashmir. These projects — Pakal Dul (1,000 MW), Kiru (624 MW), Kwar (540 MW), and Ratle (850 MW) — are being executed by a joint venture between NHPC and the Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC). Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stones for these projects between 2018 and 2022. As of now, the Pakal Dul project has reached 66% completion, Kiru 55%, Kwar 19%, and Ratle 21%. Work on the Ratle project, which gained momentum in 2023, has seen notable progress, including near-completion of its coffer dam. It is expected to be completed by November 2028. Additionally, the 930 MW Kirthai project awaits final clearances following a memorandum between JKSPDC and NHPC. This strategic shift in water policy and infrastructure development marks a new chapter in India’s assertive approach to managing its transboundary rivers amidst rising geopolitical frictions.

Read More
Editor04 mins

Nepal to Restrict Mount Everest Expeditions to Experienced Climbers in Effort to Improve Safety

Nepal is planning to introduce new regulations aimed at reducing the rising number of fatalities on Mount Everest, requiring climbers to have previously scaled a peak above 7,000 meters before being allowed to attempt the world’s highest peak. The move, reported by The Kathmandu Post, is part of a broader effort to enhance safety and order on Everest. Why Is Climbing Mount Everest So Dangerous? Since Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay of Nepal first summited Everest in 1953, thousands of climbers from around the world have been drawn to the 8,849-meter (29,032 feet) peak, known as Sagarmatha in Nepali. Official data indicates that while approximately 9,000 climbers have successfully reached the summit, over 300 have lost their lives in the attempt. This includes the hazards of extreme altitude, unpredictable weather, and the challenges posed by overcrowding during peak climbing seasons. New Regulations and Health Checks Under the proposed Integrated Tourism Bill, any climber wishing to ascend Mount Everest will first need to have successfully summited a peak over 7,000 meters. This new rule is part of a strategy to address issues such as overcrowding, high death rates, and the environmental impact on Everest. Additionally, climbers will be required to undergo a health check and provide a certificate from a government-approved medical institution to confirm their fitness for the expedition. Individuals with health complications will be barred from climbing. In addition to the climbing experience requirement, the bill introduces stricter measures such as non-refundable garbage fees to combat the growing problem of waste accumulation on the mountain. The bill also proposes a new insurance policy to cover the high costs of retrieving bodies, which can range from $20,000 to $200,000 per operation. Addressing the Dark Side of Everest Tourism The increase in the number of climbers, which has surged to over 400 in recent years, has raised concerns over the safety and environmental impact on the mountain. In 2023, 17 climbers died on Everest, and another eight lost their lives in 2024. The bill seeks to address these issues while still promoting Everest as a major tourist attraction. With the bill still in draft form, it will undergo further debates in Nepal’s Parliament before becoming law. The draft paints a clear picture of the government’s intention to bring greater accountability and safety to Everest expeditions.

Read More
Editor04 mins

Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone Reunite for Siddharth Anand’s King; Shoot to Begin May 18

Shah Rukh Khan, fresh off a hat-trick of blockbusters in 2023 (Pathaan, Jawan, Dunki), is set to headline his next action spectacle King, directed by Siddharth Anand. After initial scheduling conflicts, Deepika Padukone has officially signed on to play a full-length role opposite him—marking yet another high-profile reunion of one of Bollywood’s most beloved on-screen pairs. A source reveals that the film’s delays actually played in Deepika’s favor. “Shah Rukh was always keen to have Deepika on board,” the insider explains. “Her dates clashed initially as she took time off after the birth of her child and focused on getting back in shape. Once King’s schedule shifted, everything aligned perfectly.” Other actresses such as Kareena Kapoor Khan and Katrina Kaif were briefly considered before the team settled on Deepika. Principal photography for King is slated to begin on May 18 in Mumbai. The movie boasts an ensemble cast that includes Abhishek Bachchan, Suhana Khan, Arshad Warsi, Jaideep Ahlawat, and newcomer Abhay Verma. The action sequences—promising international-level thrills—will be choreographed by renowned foreign stunt coordinators and filmed across locations in India and Europe. On the music front, composer duo Sachin-Jigar will craft the film’s songs, while Anirudh Ravichander has been brought in to score the background soundtrack. Director Siddharth Anand, known for previous Deepika collaborations (Bachna Ae Haseeno, Pathaan, Fighter), is aiming for a grand theatrical release in the final quarter of 2026, with the exact date to be locked in once filming wraps. With its all-star lineup, high-octane action, and the proven SRK–Deepika chemistry, King is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Bollywood releases of the coming year.

Read More
Editor03 mins

Pakistan Faces Water Scarcity After India Suspends Indus Waters Treaty, Sparking Social Media Reactions

Pakistan is facing the prospect of water scarcity after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The treaty, which has been in place since 1960, has long facilitated the sharing of water from the Indus River system between the two countries. The suspension of the treaty follows claims of cross-border terrorism linked to Pakistan, particularly after the massacre of 26 civilians in Pahalgam. While the situation is being taken seriously by Islamabad, the move has sparked humorous exchanges on social media. One of the latest viral videos from India shows a parcel of bottled water being prepared for Pakistani influencer Hania Aamir, who has a substantial fan following in India. In the video, a courier service employee shows a parcel addressed to Hania Aamir in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, containing several bottles of water. The employee can be heard making light of the situation, pointing out the contents and the humorous irony of the package being sent amidst the water crisis. The Indus Waters Treaty, which survived through three wars between the two countries, is now under scrutiny as tensions between India and Pakistan escalate. India’s decision to suspend the treaty is a direct response to Pakistan’s alleged involvement in cross-border terrorism. Pakistan, however, has issued a warning, stating that any attempt to halt the flow of water would be considered an “act of war.” Despite the seriousness of the issue, the situation has been the subject of numerous memes and jokes across social media, with many poking fun at the water crisis in Pakistan. The video of the bottled water being sent to Hania Aamir has become a symbol of the online reaction, which mixes humor with the reality of the looming water shortage in Pakistan.

Read More
Editor03 mins

Liquor Home Delivery Racket Busted in Bhopal: 142 Bottles Seized from Secret Kitchen Basement

The Excise Department on Tuesday uncovered an illegal liquor home delivery operation in Bhopal, seizing 142 bottles of English liquor hidden in a secret basement beneath a kitchen. The raid followed a 10-day surveillance effort. The accused, Suresh Patil, a resident of Gopal Nagar Khajurikala, was apprehended after excise officials received a tip-off about unauthorized liquor distribution across parts of the city. According to Assistant Excise Commissioner Virendra Singh Dhakad, the operation revealed that Suresh had constructed a concealed basement where he stored 116 litres of liquor. The liquor was allegedly purchased at discounted prices from license holders offloading inventory due to contract changes effective from April 1. Suresh reportedly resold the liquor at inflated prices through a home delivery network involving several associates. The department is now working to trace the wider supply chain and identify others involved in the illicit trade. Notably, Suresh is a repeat offender with multiple previous cases registered against him. Authorities are investigating the duration of the racket and the original sources of the seized liquor.

Read More
Editor02 mins

Ashok Khemka Retires: IAS Officer Who Stood Tall Against Corruption Bids Adieu After 34 Years of Service

Ashok Khemka, one of India’s most principled and resilient Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers, is set to retire from public service on April 30, marking the end of a remarkable 34-year career defined by integrity, courage, and relentless dedication. A 1991-batch officer of the Haryana cadre, Khemka retires as the Additional Chief Secretary of the Transport Department, a position he assumed in December 2024. Over his long and often turbulent career, he was transferred 57 times—an extraordinary testament to the political and bureaucratic resistance he encountered due to his uncompromising ethical stance. Khemka became a national figure in 2012 when he cancelled the mutation of a controversial land deal in Gurugram involving Robert Vadra, the son-in-law of Congress leader Sonia Gandhi. This act of administrative courage brought both acclaim and controversy, casting him into the national spotlight as a symbol of bureaucratic integrity. Born on April 13, 1965, in Kolkata, Khemka is as distinguished academically as he is in service. An alumnus of IIT Kharagpur (B.Tech in Computer Science, 1988), he also holds a PhD in Computer Science from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), an MBA in Finance and Business Administration, and an LLB from Panjab University—accomplishments that underscore his intellectual rigor and lifelong commitment to learning. Despite his credentials and honesty, Khemka was frequently sidelined into what were perceived as “low-profile” postings, notably being transferred four times to the Archives Department—three of them during BJP rule and once under the Congress regime in 2013. In 2023, he openly expressed frustration over his marginalisation, especially after being overlooked for promotions given to his batchmates. Still, he remained undeterred. “Straight trees are always cut first. No regrets. With renewed resolve, I shall persist,” he tweeted, exemplifying his stoic resilience. Later that year, he volunteered to lead the Vigilance Department, offering his services to spearhead an anti-corruption drive. “No one, however elevated, shall be exempt from scrutiny,” he wrote in a letter to the Chief Minister, calling for equity in bureaucratic responsibilities and stronger mechanisms to root out corruption. His return to the Transport Department under Minister Anil Vij in 2024 marked nearly a decade since his previous stint was cut short after just four months. Khemka’s legacy transcends bureaucratic ranks—he is a rare figure whose career embodied the ideals of public service. As he steps away from the corridors of power, his unwavering stand against corruption, despite personal and professional costs, will continue to serve as a guiding light for future civil servants.

Read More
Editor04 mins

Fresh Corruption Case Filed Against Former AAP Ministers in ₹2,000-Crore Classroom Scam

In a major development, the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the Delhi Police has filed a corruption case against former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ministers Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain in connection with the alleged ₹2,000-crore classroom construction scam. The ACB has also launched a comprehensive probe to determine the involvement of other officials and contractors linked to the project. According to ACB chief Madhur Verma, the role of unidentified government officials and contractors is also under scrutiny. The investigation pertains to the construction of over 12,000 classrooms and school buildings during the previous AAP regime, which, the ACB claims, were built at grossly inflated costs. Manish Sisodia, who served as Deputy Chief Minister and held the Education portfolio, and Satyendar Jain, the then PWD Minister, were responsible for overseeing the classroom construction project. The Public Works Department, under Jain’s leadership, was the executing agency for the constructions. The ACB’s initial findings suggest that 34 contractors, most of whom were allegedly associated with AAP, were awarded contracts. Many of the constructions were not completed within the stipulated timeframe, leading to significant cost escalations. Notably, the classrooms were built as Semi-Permanent Structures (SPS) with an intended lifespan of 30 years. However, the cost incurred was reportedly equivalent to that of pucca (permanent) classrooms with a lifespan of 75 years. Further irregularities were noted in the appointment of consultants and architects, who were allegedly hired without adherence to due procurement procedures. These violations contributed to the soaring project costs. The probe gained momentum following complaints by BJP leaders, who alleged that the classroom construction costs had escalated nearly fivefold. The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) had also prepared a report highlighting serious lapses and irregularities in the project. However, the ACB stated that this report was suppressed for nearly three years. According to the CVC findings, the cost of SPS construction was pegged at ₹2,292 per sq ft, which was almost at par with the cost of constructing full-fledged concrete buildings, ranging from ₹2,044 to ₹2,416 per sq ft. Additionally, project costs were increased by ₹326 crore without issuing new tenders, further raising concerns of financial mismanagement and procedural violations. The investigation is ongoing and is expected to uncover more details about the extent of the alleged scam.

Read More
Editor04 mins

Indian-Origin Tech CEO Allegedly Kills Wife and Son, Dies by Suicide in Washington

In a deeply disturbing incident reported from Newcastle, Washington, Indian-origin entrepreneur Harshavardhana S. Kikkeri, 57, allegedly shot dead his wife and 14-year-old son before dying by suicide at their home on April 24. The family tragedy has sent shockwaves through both the local community in Washington and the tech circles in India. The victims have been identified as Harshavardhana Kikkeri, the founder and CEO of the robotics company HoloWorld, his wife Shwetha Panyam, 44, who co-founded the company, and their teenage son. Their younger son survived the incident. News footage from the scene showed a child being escorted away and comforted by law enforcement officials. The King County Sheriff’s Office has yet to confirm the identities of the children. Authorities have not revealed a possible motive for the violent act and have stated that the investigation is still ongoing. “It is not immediately clear what provoked the extreme act,” police told media, according to an NDTV report. Kikkeri was originally from KR Pet Taluk in Karnataka’s Mandya district and had a notable career in the tech sector, including a stint at Microsoft. In 2017, he and his wife returned to India and established HoloWorld in Mysuru’s Vijayanagar Third Stage. The company, which focused on robotics, ceased operations in 2022 following financial strain during the Covid-19 pandemic. Kikkeri later returned to the U.S. The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief among those who knew the family, both in India and abroad. Friends and former colleagues are grappling with the shocking news, while authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the tragic events.

Read More
Editor03 mins

Kolkata Hotel Fire Claims 14 Lives, Dozens Injured in Tragic Incident

A devastating fire broke out in a Kolkata hotel in the early hours of Wednesday, claiming at least 14 lives and leaving several others injured. As thick smoke rapidly filled the stairwells and corridors, guests scrambled to find safety. Some made their way to the rooftop, while others were seen clinging precariously to parapets outside their windows in a desperate attempt to escape the flames. Firefighters mounted a swift rescue operation, using hydraulic ladders to reach those stranded on ledges. Guests on the terrace signaled for help using phone flashlights, while authorities deployed loudspeakers to communicate with those trapped inside, offering reassurance as smoke engulfed the structure. One of the victims, identified as Sanjoy Paswan, was declared dead on arrival at Kolkata Medical College Hospital after reportedly falling from the building while trying to escape. Several other victims are currently being treated for burns and smoke inhalation at the same hospital. Once the fire was brought under control in the early hours, emergency teams were able to access the upper floors of the building. There, they discovered 13 more bodies, many of whom are believed to have died from suffocation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the incident, writing on social media platform X: “Anguished by the loss of lives due to a fire mishap in Kolkata. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.” He also announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh to the families of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). West Bengal’s Women, Children and Social Welfare Minister Sashi Panja stated that many of the hotel’s occupants were from other states, visiting for business purposes. She confirmed that two children were among the victims and emphasized that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the blaze. “The fire brigade did its best to rescue all the boarders, but unfortunately some died due to suffocation,” she said. Authorities have cordoned off the area and continue to investigate the incident, as the city mourns yet another deadly tragedy caused by fire safety lapses.

Read More
Editor04 mins
Switch Language »