770-kg explosives found at residences of RSS leader in Kerala ahead of LS polls
Kannur: In a significant operation, the Kerala Police have uncovered a substantial cache of 770 kg explosives from the residences of a local Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader and his relative in Poyiloor, Kannur district.
The explosives were discovered at the homes of Vadakayil Pramod, a local RSS leader, and his relative Vadakayil Shanta. Pramod, who is currently absconding, is believed to be connected to the seized materials.
The operation was led by Kolavalloor Police Inspector Sumeet Kumar and Sub-Inspector Sobin, initiated based on confidential information received by the police. The significant seizure has prompted the police to launch legal proceedings, with two cases registered in connection with the incident.
"Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosives were intended for illegal distribution," Kolavalloor Police was quoted as saying to Maktoob. "Efforts are being intensified to ensure the safety and security of the region amidst these concerning developments."
However, speaking to Vartha Bharati over a phone call, Kolavalloor SHO stated that while the reports of the recovery were true, he added that the explosives were meant to be used for firecrackers during the Ugadi festival. He also added that Pramod was arrested.
The SHO also confirmed that Pramod was linked to RSS and was one of their local leaders.
The discovery of such a substantial quantity of explosives had sparked alarm among locals, especially as the Lok Sabha elections draw near.
Last year, another incident involving RSS-affiliated individuals making bombs resulted in severe injuries. A youth named Vishnu (20), associated with the RSS, suffered grave injuries after an explosion occurred during bomb-making near Eranjolipalam in Kannur. Vishnu's hands were severely injured in the blast, which occurred while he was making a bomb in a field near his residence.
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Punjab CM Mann lays foundation stone of Rs 14.63 crore sports stadium in Sangrur
Sangrur (PTI): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday laid the foundation stone of a Rs 14.63 crore modern sports stadium here, underscoring that expanding access to quality playgrounds alongside a strong education system is key to steering the youth towards "purpose, performance, and global achievement".
The stadium coming up on 4.38 acres in Satouj will offer professional training and host a wide range of sports including badminton, handball, judo, netball, basketball, volleyball, football, gymnastics, kabaddi and karate, according to an official release.
"It is a historic day for the region as this stadium is coming up at a cost of Rs 14.63 crore. This stadium will be constructed over an area of 4.38 acres, and the complex will host various sporting activities," Mann said.
"The stadium will have a 200-metre athletic track, pavilion for spectators and players and a multipurpose indoor sports hall," he said.
While highlighting the wide range of facilities being created, Mann said professional training opportunities will be provided to children and youngsters in the stadium, adding that this project will ensure that the area emerges as a sports hub.
Emphasising the importance of balanced development, he said, "When there is a good school for education and a proper ground for sports, a child can bring glory to their village, state, and country on the global stage."
Reaffirming the Punjab government's focus on youth development, Mann said, "It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that the Punjab government is successfully providing world-class facilities for education and sports."
This project will help in further breaking the backbone of drugs by fostering sporting culture in the state, and it will help in channelising the unbounded energy of youth of state in a positive manner, he said.
Such stadiums will play an important role in helping the youth stay away from the curse of drugs and in order to encourage the youngsters to realise their dreams of winning medals in national and international sporting events, the CM said.
Later, Mann launched an ultra-modern community health centre here that aims to benefit the residents of 85 villages. It is equipped with round-the-clock emergency services, surgical facilities, treatment for serious illnesses and specialist care for children, he said.
Mann alleged that previous governments neglected regions like Dirba and kept development restricted. He said his government is reversing this by investing public money back into villages through hospitals, schools, libraries and roads.
"To impart quality health services to people, we have dedicated the CHC at village Kauhrian... This ambitious project has been completed at a cost of Rs 13.23 crore and the centre has a capacity of 30 beds," he said.
He further noted, "The CHC will also have paediatric specialists for treating children's diseases, and free treatment along with all necessary tests for mothers and children will be provided."
Mann added that dental treatment will also be provided by a specialist at the facility.
