Singer MG Sreekumar fined Rs 25,000 for dumping waste in Kochi backwaters
KOCHI, Apr 3 (PTI): A local body near here has slapped a fine of Rs 25,000 against noted playback singer M G Sreekumar for allegedly dumping waste into the Kochi backwaters.
The Mulavukad Grama Panchayat issued a notice directing the singer to pay the fine within 15 days, the authorities said on Thursday.
The notice was issued after a tourist captured a video on their mobile phone showing a garbage bag being thrown into the Kochi backwaters from the singer's house located in Mulavukad panchayat area, panchayat sources said.
According to the sources, a few days ago, this video was posted on social media, tagging Local Self Government Minister M B Rajesh.
In response, the minister stated that complaints regarding public littering, supported by evidence, could be submitted to the government’s WhatsApp number (94467 00800) for action.
After receiving the complaint, the local body’s control room directed the panchayat authorities to inspect the site the same day and confirm the incident, panchayat sources added.
Subsequently, a notice directing to pay a fine of Rs 25,000 was issued under the relevant sections of the Panchayat Raj Act, the sources said.
"After considering the response from the singer, the panchayat will initiate further action if required," said a top panchayat functionary.
However, the singer has not responded to the issue so far.
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No more photocopies: Centre launches new Aadhaar app with Face ID feature
New Delhi: The Centre on Tuesday launched a new Aadhaar mobile application aimed at enhancing digital convenience and privacy. The app was unveiled by Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in the national capital.
The app allows users to verify and share Aadhaar details digitally, eliminating the need to carry physical copies or submit photocopies for identification. “New Aadhaar App, Face ID authentication via mobile app. No physical card, no photocopies,” said Vaishnaw in a video message on X.
Key features of the app include Face ID-based authentication and QR code scanning for Aadhaar verification, making the process as easy as a UPI payment. The minister highlighted that users can share only the required data with their consent, ensuring full control over their personal information.
Vaishnaw also stated that the app, currently in its beta testing phase, has been developed with strong privacy safeguards. It prevents misuse, forgery, or editing of Aadhaar details.
The digital tool aims to remove the need for Aadhaar photocopies at places like hotels, shops, and airports. Emphasising Aadhaar’s role in government initiatives, the minister also invited stakeholders to explore ways of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with India’s digital public infrastructure (DPI), keeping privacy as the central focus.
