Toll collection in Surathkal halted on Wednesday: Protesters rejoice over ‘victory’
Surathkal: The halt on the collection of toll at the NITK Tollgate here, starting November 30 midnight, is a victory of people's struggles, the leaders of the protesting committee have said.
The protesters, who undertook an indefinite stir against the toll collection, celebrated on November 30 midnight, just as the collection was stopped at the Surathkal tollgate, said sources. The leaders cut cakes and shouted slogans in support of the protesting committee, as a part of the celebration. The members also sang and danced and burst crackers, in joy.
In addition, leaders and activists of the protesting committee and of the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi District Common Minded People Association shouted slogans in opposition to the MP and legislators of undivided Dakshina Kannada district, it is learned.
Muneer Katipalla, convener of the protesting committee, who addressed the gathering on the occasion, said, “This is a victory to the united Tulunadu. I thank all participants from Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts in the struggle against the tollgate.”
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MEA reports more than 200 Indians enlisted in Russian military since 2022; 26 deaths confirmed
More than 200 Indian nationals have joined the Russian armed forces since 2022, with 26 are confirmed dead, MEA—The Ministry of External Affairs have informed the Upper house of the Parliament: Rajya Sabha.
In a written response, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, has stated that at least 202 Indians are reported to have joined the Russian army. Among these recruited personnels, 26 have lost their lives; while, seven individuals have been reported missing by Russian authorities. He added that the remains of two deceased Indian nationals were cremated in Russia.
Singh noted that the sustained diplomatic efforts by the Indian government have led to the early discharge of 119 individuals. He further added that the discussions are going smoothly with the Russians to secure the release of the remaining personnel, with efforts underway to facilitate the early discharge of 50 more Indian nationals.
According to the minister, the Union government is in contact with Russian authorities to ensure the safety, welfare, and prompt return of Indian citizens serving in the Russian army. The issue, he said, is being addressed at multiple levels, including interactions between senior leaders, ministers, and officials of both countries.
The said disclosure was made in response to queries raised by Saket Gokhale, the MP of Trinamool Congress, and Randeep Singh Surjewala, the MP of INC, regarding the number of Indians allegedly recruited into the military service in Russia; Along with the details of deaths and missing persons reported since 2022.
