A day after delays in several trains led to a heavy rush on platforms 12 and 13, officials on Monday said they are discussing whether to keep a standby train ready in the stabling yard to ease congestion whenever needed. This train will consist only of general coaches and will be deployed in situations of severe overcrowding.

“Our observations reveal that evening departures to Bihar often see overcrowding. A special train would help accommodate unreserved passengers, especially those bound for Patna and Hajipur,” a railway official said.

Indian Railways is also considering other measures, including printing train names and numbers on platform tickets, which would require updates to the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) software.

On Sunday evening, at least four trains were delayed, causing chaos on platforms 12 and 13. Though officials clarified that no stampede occurred, the incident brought back memories of the February 15 stampede, which resulted in 18 deaths.

An NDLS official explained that after the February 15 tragedy, a rule was introduced stating that no platform changes would be announced to avoid confusion. However, on Sunday, due to train delays, platform 12 remained occupied for too long, while the new rule prevented staff from shifting trains to other platforms, leading to a crowd surge.

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During the Zero Hour discussions in the House, Mittal expressed concern over India continuing to bear the burden of colonial-era names, stating that they serve as lingering symbols of British rule. He lauded the government’s initiatives, citing renaming instances such as Rajpath to Kartavya Path, Indian Penal Code to Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Allahabad to Prayagraj as steps towards shedding the colonial mindset.

Mittal emphasized that despite such progress, numerous institutions, roads, and landmarks across the country still bear British-era names. Referring to his recent visit to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh, he noted that while the city has been renamed, the Allahabad High Court and Allahabad University still retain their colonial names. Additionally, he pointed out that the Lok Sabha constituency continues to be called Allahabad instead of Prayagraj, underscoring the need for further changes.

Concerns Over Colonial Monuments

Mittal also raised concerns regarding the conservation and continued prominence of colonial-era monuments dedicated to British officers like Warren Hastings and Lieutenant CA Edwards. He argued that equating such sites with India’s national heritage landmarks like the Taj Mahal is problematic and urged state governments to take proactive steps in renaming institutions under their jurisdiction.

He further proposed the formation of a parliamentary committee to examine and recommend additional renaming efforts, ensuring a more comprehensive removal of colonial influences from public spaces.

Contrasting Opinions Within AAP

Mittal’s remarks come at a time when his party colleague and senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh has openly criticized the Centre’s renaming efforts. On March 7, Singh accused the government of using historical revisionism as a “smokescreen” to divert public attention from pressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, and economic disparity.

Renaming as Part of the BJP’s Broader Vision

The renaming of places and institutions aligns with the BJP-led central government’s larger initiative to remove India’s colonial legacy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly emphasized the importance of eliminating the “colonial mindset” and reinstating Indian heritage as an integral part of the country’s identity.

While Mittal’s support highlights bipartisan backing for this initiative, the debate over renaming places remains a contentious issue, with contrasting views emerging within political circles.

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Background of the Case:

The allegations stem from claims that AAP used taxpayer money to fund large-scale party advertisements and hoardings, violating election and public funds regulations. The case was initially brought to attention in 2019 but has gained renewed traction following Kejriwal’s recent loss in the Delhi assembly elections.

This legal setback adds to Kejriwal’s existing troubles. Previously, he and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia were arrested in connection with the controversial Delhi excise policy. The policy, implemented in 2021-22 and later scrapped, allegedly resulted in a ₹2,000 crore loss to the national capital’s exchequer, as per a CAG audit report.

Recent Political Developments:

This court order comes just weeks after AAP lost power to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi. Kejriwal himself faced a significant electoral defeat in the New Delhi constituency against BJP’s Parvesh Verma. His party, which had ruled the capital for over a decade, has been facing increased scrutiny, with multiple legal battles mounting against its leadership.

Current Status and Next Steps:

• The court has instructed authorities to proceed with registering an FIR and initiating further investigations.
• Kejriwal remains out on bail in the Delhi excise policy case but may now face additional legal hurdles.
• AAP leaders are expected to respond to the fresh FIR and may challenge the court’s order in a higher judicial forum.

With this latest development, the legal troubles surrounding AAP and Arvind Kejriwal are far from over. The case is expected to have significant political ramifications as well, potentially affecting AAP’s future electoral prospects.

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Why BJP Picked Rekha Gupta Over Parvesh Verma as Delhi CM

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) surprised many by selecting Rekha Gupta, the Shalimar Bagh MLA, as Delhi’s new Chief Minister, overlooking senior leaders like Parvesh Verma, Vijender Gupta, and Ashish Sood. Here’s why BJP made this strategic choice:

1. Strengthening Women Voter Support

• BJP has been focusing on women-centric policies to consolidate their support base.
• Gupta’s appointment helps break the perception that BJP does not promote women to top positions.
• This move aligns with BJP’s ‘Sankalp Patra’, which promised ₹2,500 monthly aid to women.
• She is now the only woman BJP CM and the second female CM in India, after Mamata Banerjee.

2. Appealing to the Trader Community (Baniya Vote Bank)

• Gupta belongs to the Baniya community, a traditional BJP stronghold in Delhi.
• Traders have been loyal BJP supporters since the Vajpayee-Advani era.
• Her elevation reinforces BJP’s commitment to its core voter base in Delhi.

3. Rewarding Grassroots Leadership

• Gupta has risen through the ranks, from student politics (ABVP) to municipal governance and now CM.
• PM Narendra Modi praised her journey, emphasizing BJP’s focus on homegrown leaders rather than parachuting candidates from outside.
• This decision strengthens the message that dedicated party workers can reach top positions.

4. Balancing BJP’s Political Equation in Delhi

• Despite Parvesh Verma’s victory over Arvind Kejriwal, BJP may have wanted to avoid concentrating too much power in one leader.
• Gupta, seen as a team player, ensures a more balanced leadership approach.

Conclusion

By picking Rekha Gupta as Delhi CM, BJP aims to empower women voters, consolidate the trader community, and promote grassroots leadership, while also maintaining internal party balance. Her appointment is a strategic political move ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly governance.

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According to BJP sources, these priorities will be discussed in the first cabinet meeting following Gupta’s oath-taking ceremony at Ramlila Ground. The newly elected government, which secured a historic 48 out of 70 seats, is keen to differentiate itself from the previous AAP-led administration. “The new CM and her team have a responsibility to showcase visible changes and improvements. This aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, as emphasized during the election campaign,” a senior BJP leader told CNN-News18.

In addition to governance reforms, the BJP has also pledged to present the long-pending Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports in the Delhi Assembly’s first session. This move could put further pressure on the former AAP government and its ministers.

Gupta was sworn in on Wednesday in a grand ceremony attended by PM Modi, Union ministers, and senior party leaders. Alongside her, cabinet ministers Ashish Sood, Pankaj Kumar Singh, Parvesh Singh Sahib, Kapil Mishra, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, and Raviraj Indraj Singh also took the oath, marking the beginning of the BJP’s first government in the capital in 27 years.

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To be eligible, candidates must hold a graduation degree or equivalent qualification. Final-year students can apply provisionally but must provide proof of passing before the interview. Medical graduates must submit proof of internship completion during the interview. The age limit as of August 1, 2025, is 21 to 32 years, with relaxations for reserved categories. The application fee is ₹100, though Female, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates are exempt. Attempt limits vary—General category candidates get 6 attempts, OBC candidates get 9, while SC/ST candidates have no limit. Candidates must ensure they have a One-Time Registration (OTR) profile, which is mandatory for applying and remains valid for a lifetime.

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The oath-taking ceremony will take place on a grand scale at Ramlila Maidan, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and other top leaders in attendance. Senior BJP leaders Tarun Chugh and Vinod Tawde are overseeing the event preparations.

Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has criticized the BJP for delaying its CM announcement. AAP leader Gopal Rai claimed that the party’s internal struggles could result in three different CMs over the next five years, similar to the last BJP regime in Delhi.

Key Highlights of Delhi Govt Formation:

• Oath Venue: Ramlila Maidan, which can accommodate 30,000 people, is undergoing preparations, including painting and cleaning.
• Historical Significance: The venue was chosen due to its political history, notably hosting the 1975 protest led by Jayaprakash Narayan against Indira Gandhi’s government.
• BJP’s Victory: The 2025 Delhi assembly election marked a historic comeback for the BJP after 27 years, securing 48 out of 70 seats and dethroning AAP from power.

With the new government set to take charge, all eyes are on the BJP’s final decision on the next Chief Minister of Delhi.

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The incident occurred around 8:45 PM when it was initially announced that the Kumbh special train would depart from platform number 12. Shortly after, another announcement stated that the train would now depart from platform number 16. This led to a chaotic situation among passengers.

At the time of the announcement, Magadh Express was stationed on platform 14, and Uttar Sampark Kranti Express was on platform 15, with a large crowd of passengers gathered on platform 14 to board the Prayagraj Express. The crowd grew so large that movement became difficult.

Upon hearing the platform change, passengers from platforms 12-13 and 14-15 rushed to the stairs via foot over bridges 2 and 3. Meanwhile, passengers from the Magadh Express, Uttar Sampark Kranti Express, and Prayagraj Express were descending the stairs. Amidst the pushing and shoving, several passengers slipped and fell, causing a stampede.

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BJP President JP Nadda clarified that the new CM will be chosen from among the elected MLAs, with the names of cabinet ministers likely to be announced during the meeting.

BJP’s triumphant return to power after 26 years, securing 48 seats with a 71% strike rate, sets the stage for a grand swearing-in ceremony. The event could see over 1 lakh attendees, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior party leaders, and Chief Ministers from 21 BJP and NDA-ruled states.

Following the Delhi Assembly elections, BJP or NDA now governs in 21 out of 28 states and 3 union territories, a return to the party’s 2018 position. AAP’s seat count dropped to 22, and Congress failed to win any seats for the third consecutive election.

BJP has shortlisted six potential CM candidates, including Jitendra Mahajan and Ravindra Singh, with 9 names under consideration. The party may select one MLA from each of Delhi’s seven Lok Sabha seats, taking caste dynamics into account. The new cabinet is expected to include a maximum of 7 ministers, including the CM.

6 BJP leaders emerge as top contenders for Delhi’s CM post

The race for Delhi’s new Chief Minister (CM) has intensified, with six prominent BJP leaders emerging as potential candidates. These contenders bring varied backgrounds and experiences to the table, signaling a strategic approach by the party as it prepares to form the government in Delhi.

• Ravindra Indraj Singh: A first-time MLA from the Punjabi Dalit community, Ravindra’s selection could help BJP reach out to Dalits, a crucial vote bank the party has struggled to secure. His appointment would be significant as there is currently no Dalit CM in any state.
• Shikha Rai: A second-time municipal councilor and lawyer, Shikha’s victory over AAP’s senior leader Saurabh Bharadwaj in Greater Kailash-1 ward positions her as a possible female CM candidate. BJP could use her candidacy to address criticism over its lack of female representation in leadership roles.
• Pravesh Verma: Son of former CM Sahib Singh Verma, Pravesh defeated Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi seat. A prominent Jat leader, his appointment could help BJP appease non-Jat chief ministers in Haryana and address issues arising from the farmers’ movement.
• Vijender Gupta: A third-time MLA from Rohini, Vijender has strong organizational ties with both the BJP and RSS. His leadership and prominence in Delhi BJP make him a frontrunner for the CM position.
• Rajkumar Bhatia: Vice president of Delhi BJP, Rajkumar played a key role in BJP’s successful slum campaign. His deep connections with RSS and ABVP strengthen his profile as a potential CM candidate.
• Jitendra Mahajan: A third-time MLA, Jitendra is known for his simple lifestyle and strong ties to RSS. His consistent performance in elections makes him a key contender for the CM post

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The tragedy occurred between platforms 13, 14, and 15, where large crowds had gathered for the Mahakumbh. Delays in trains like Bhubaneswar Rajdhani and Swatantrata Senani Express worsened the situation. At around 9:00 PM, an announcement about the Prayagraj Special train arriving on platform 16 confused, leading passengers to rush to the wrong platform. Eyewitnesses claim this platform change triggered the stampede.

Authorities provided conflicting accounts—Delhi Police blamed confusion over similar train names, while Northern Railway suggested a passenger’s fall worsened the situation. An investigation has been launched, and crowd management deficiencies were identified as contributing factors.

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