Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Friday said US tariffs are severely impacting India’s textile exporters, stressing the need for India to secure a trade deal with the United States (US) that prioritises Indian businesses and workers, news agency PTI reported. 50% US tariffs and uncertainty are badly hurting India’s textile exporters. Job losses, factory shutdowns and reduced orders are a reality of our ‘Dead Economy’.Mr. Modi has offered no relief or even spoken about tariffs, even though more than 4.5 crore jobs and lakhs of… pic.twitter.com/5BcG3AZibg — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) January 23, 2026 Gandhi asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi must not allow his “own weakness” to further affect the economy, especially when crores of jobs and lakhs of businesses are at risk. The Congress leader shared a video on X from his recent visit to a garment factory in Haryana, where he interacted with workers and management and observed the operations firsthand. In the video, Gandhi is seen visiting various sections of the factory and even trying his hand at cutting cloth. In a post accompanying the video, Gandhi said, “50 per cent US tariffs and uncertainty are badly hurting India’s textile exporters. Job losses, factory shutdowns and reduced orders are a reality of our ‘Dead Economy’.” He criticised the Prime Minister for not addressing the issue, saying, “Mr. Modi has offered no relief or even spoken about tariffs, even though more than 4.5 crore jobs and lakhs of businesses are at stake. Modi ji, you are accountable; please direct your attention to this matter!” The post carried the hashtag TINA (There Is No Accountability). Rahul Gandhi highlights US tariffs’ impact on textile sector, calls for urgent government support Gandhi later shared the video on YouTube as well, repeating his appeal to the Prime Minister. The phrase “please direct your attention to this matter” appeared to be a pointed reference to US President Donald Trump’s frequently used line, “Thank you for your attention to this matter”. Highlighting the scale of the sector, Gandhi said India’s textile industry is the second-largest employer in the country and that Indian textiles and craftsmanship are recognised globally, PTI reported. “Yet today, this industry is facing deep uncertainty and fear because of US tariffs,” he said. Gandhi pointed out that exporters are under pressure from multiple fronts, PTI reported. “With 50 per cent tariffs in the US, falling prices in Europe, and fierce competition from Bangladesh and China, our garment and textile exporters are facing pressure from all sides,” he said. He said the impact is being felt directly on employment. “Units are closing, procurement is decreasing, and there is widespread turmoil across the entire sector,” Gandhi added. Recalling his visit to the Haryana factory, the former Congress president said he witnessed the skill, resilience and ambition of Indian workers. “They simply need a government that provides them with genuine support,” he said. Gandhi reiterated that it is essential for India to secure a trade agreement with the US that puts Indian interests first. “PM Modi must not allow his own weakness to impact our economy any further,” he added. (With PTI inputs)
23 January,2026 08:22 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIn a significant development, the Karnataka High Court (HC) on Friday lifted the ban on bike taxi services in the state, paving the way for operators to resume services. The court, however, allowed the state government to impose conditions in accordance with the law. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice CM Joshi allowed a batch of appeals filed by cab aggregators ANI Technologies (Ola), Uber, Rapido and others, challenging an earlier single-judge order that had directed bike taxi services to be halted until the state framed specific rules under the Motor Vehicles Act. Setting aside the April 2025 single-judge order, the bench held that motorcycles used for bike taxi services fall within the definition of “transport vehicles” under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Consequently, it ruled that the state government cannot refuse or deny permits solely on the ground that motorcycles are not transport vehicles, news agency IANS reported. The court observed that bike taxi operators are entitled to apply for contract carriage permits to operate motorcycles as bike taxis. While the state government is free to examine all relevant aspects while considering such applications, permits cannot be denied merely because the vehicle in question is a motorcycle. “Taxi owners are at liberty to file applications for registration of the vehicle as a transport vehicle. We direct the state government to consider such applications for registration of the owner of the vehicle as a transport vehicle and grant permission to operate as contract carriages,” the bench said. The court further stated that regional transport authorities may impose such conditions as they deem necessary in accordance with law, having regard to Section 74(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act, IANS reported. It also clarified that aggregators are free to file fresh applications, which must be considered in line with the law and the observations of the court. Earlier, the court had questioned the state government’s decision to impose a blanket ban on bike taxis instead of regulating the sector. It observed that every trade is permissible unless regulated and that bike taxi services cannot be kept outside the scope of commerce. The court reminded the state of its obligation to frame a policy, noting that judicial review would be limited to examining whether such a policy is arbitrary, IANS reported. A single-judge bench of Justice B Shyam Prasad had, on April 2, 2025, directed that bike taxi services be halted within six weeks, following which the state government banned the service on June 16, 2025. Rapido welcomes Karnataka HC's verdict Welcoming the Karnataka High Court’s decision permitting bike taxi services, Rapido said the verdict marked a significant step forward for urban mobility in the state and validated bike taxis as a legitimate mode of transport. The company said the ruling would benefit commuters by offering a safe, affordable and efficient travel option, while also creating livelihood opportunities for thousands of youth across Karnataka. It added that the decision would bring dignity and stability to its captains and contribute to the broader vision of inclusive and smarter mobility. Rapido said it remains committed to complying with all applicable regulations and working closely with the Karnataka government under its guidelines to strengthen the mobility ecosystem. “Recognizing bike taxis as a legitimate mode of transport is not just a legal victory for us, but a milestone moment for urban mobility in Karnataka,” a Rapido spokesperson said. “As we move forward, we remain committed to complying with all applicable regulations and working closely with the Government of Karnataka,” the spokesperson added. (With IANS inputs)
23 January,2026 07:52 PM IST | Bengaluru | mid-day online correspondentThe holy Vaishno Devi Shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district witnessed the season’s first snowfall on Friday, covering the Trikuta Hills in a pristine white blanket and turning the pilgrimage route into a picturesque winter landscape. Katra, Jammu & Kashmir: First #snowfall of the season blankets Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji shrine, covering Holi Bhawan in a serene white layer.#JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/J5Bt4Rp09v — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) January 23, 2026 The scenic Bhaderwah Valley also received its first snowfall of the season on Friday morning, delighting residents who had waited eagerly for snow. Roads, streets, and surrounding hills were transformed into a white wonderland, while cold weather intensified, prompting locals to take precautions. Authorities, including Bhaderwah Police and the district administration, issued helpline numbers and advised travellers to exercise caution, especially while heading to higher reaches. The hill resort town of Batote in Jammu district also reported heavy snowfall. Other popular hill resorts in Jammu province — including Patnitop, Nathatop, Sanasar, and Batote — experienced the season’s first snow, ending a long dry spell. The snowfall has brought cheer to those dependent on tourism, including hoteliers, taxi drivers, mule and horse owners, photographers, shopkeepers, and vendors. Residents woke up to find their homes and surroundings blanketed in snow. Meteorologists had predicted rainfall starting around midnight in Jammu province, which intensified and turned into snow at higher elevations. Experts say the rainfall and snowfall are expected to recharge hydel project reservoirs, increase power generation, restore groundwater levels, and revive springs and wells, benefiting fruit and vegetable production. The precipitation may also improve air quality, reducing dust and pollution. The snowfall is expected to attract tourists, including pilgrims visiting Mata Shri Vaishno Devi Shrine, giving a boost to the local tourism economy, which has been affected by past incidents such as the Pahalgam massacre, Operation Sindoor, and heavy rains. The influx of snow enthusiasts will help hoteliers, vendors, and small businesses recover some of their losses. However, safety remains a concern. According to SSP Traffic Police, National Highway, Raja Adil Hamid, traffic on NH44 has been stopped at safer locations due to ongoing rains and snow, as slippery roads pose a risk. Uttarakhand sees widespread rain, snowfall: Kedarnath temple painted in white High-altitude regions of Uttarakhand received the season’s first snowfall on Friday, ending a prolonged dry spell and intensifying the cold wave across the state, while steady rain lashed the plains, including the state capital Dehradun. (With ANI inputs)
23 January,2026 07:14 PM IST | Reasi | mid-day online correspondentHigh-altitude regions of Uttarakhand received the season’s first snowfall on Friday, ending a prolonged dry spell and intensifying the cold wave across the state, while steady rain lashed the plains, including the state capital Dehradun. VIDEO | Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand: Kedarnath Dham receives heavy snowfall.(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7)#Uttarakhand pic.twitter.com/gSF7qaf1mW — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 23, 2026 Pilgrimage centres and hill stations such as Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Auli, Mussoorie, Chakrata, Dhanaulti, and Uttarkashi were covered in a thick blanket of snow. The change in weather drew tourists to several destinations, particularly Mussoorie, where visitors were seen thronging the Mall Road and sharing snowfall videos on social media. #WATCH | Uttrakhand | Heavy snowfall has been occurring at Shri Kedarnath Dham since this morning. Due to the snowfall, the cold has intensified in the shrine area and the surrounding regions.(Source: Temple committee) pic.twitter.com/0NERyM5V3Z — ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2026 Apple growers and horticulturists across the hill districts also welcomed the precipitation, which is crucial for winter crops. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Uttarakhand, warning of fairly widespread to widespread rainfall and snowfall on January 22 and 23 due to an intense western disturbance affecting the western Himalayan region. The IMD has also forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph, reaching up to 60 kmph, on January 23, along with isolated heavy rainfall or snowfall in higher reaches and hailstorm activity at some places. Meanwhile, cold conditions have intensified in and around the Kedarnath Dham shrine area following heavy snowfall, the temple committee said. The portals of the world-famous eleventh Jyotirlinga were ceremoniously closed for the winter season on October 23, 2025, coinciding with Bhai Dooj. Following the closing rituals, the swayambhu Shivling of Lord Kedarnath was adorned with locally sacred flowers such as Kumja, Bukla, Rakh and Brahmakamal, along with dried flowers and leaves, symbolically giving it a samadhi form. The sanctum doors were then closed amid chants of “Jai Baba Kedar”. Devotional ceremonies mark Kedarnath closure; Badrinath remains shut for winter Before the closure, the temple was decorated with flowers, devotional music was played by the Indian Army band, and chants echoed across the complex. Despite the biting cold, around 10,000 devotees gathered to witness the ceremony. Separately, the portals of Badrinath Dham were closed for the winter season on November 25, 2025. Badrinath is among the holiest shrines for Vaishnavites, forming part of the 108 Divya Desams, and is also one of the Panch Badri temples, along with Yog Dhyan Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Adi Badri and Vriddha Badri. Standing about 50 feet tall, the Badrinath temple features a small cupola crowned with a gold-gilt roof. The shrine complex comprises the Garbha Griha, Darshan Mandap and Sabha Mandap, with idols of Lord Badari Narayan, Kuber, Narad Rishi, Udhava, Nar and Narayan, among others. Opposite the main deity, the seated idol of Garud, the vehicle of Lord Badarinath, is installed in a prayer posture. (With PTI and ANI inputs)
23 January,2026 05:22 PM IST | Dehradun | mid-day online correspondentThe Republic Day 2026 parade, held on January 26, is one of India’s most significant national events, symbolising the country’s democratic values, cultural diversity and growing global stature. The grand parade, held every year, marks the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950 and reflects the nation’s journey as a sovereign, republic state. The parade serves as a reminder of the rule of law, equality, justice and the rights guaranteed to every citizen in the country. It reinforces the importance of democratic institutions and constitutional governance. Here are significance of the Republic Day parade. Display of military strength and preparedness One of the most prominent aspects of the parade is the march-past by the armed forces and paramilitary units. It highlights India’s defence preparedness, discipline and commitment to national security. Advanced weapon systems, military vehicles and indigenous defence technologies are showcased, underlining India’s growing self-reliance in defence. Showcase of cultural diversity Colourful tableaux from different states and Union Territories reflect India’s rich cultural heritage, traditions and achievements. Folk dances, regional art forms and thematic displays highlight the unity in diversity that defines the nation. Tribute to Courage and Service The Republic Day parade also honours bravery and service. Gallantry award recipients, including armed forces personnel and civilians, are recognised for their courage and dedication. Children who have shown exceptional bravery are also felicitated, inspiring the younger generation. Symbol of national unity and pride The Republic Day parade brings together people from across the country and the world. The presence of a foreign chief guest underscores India’s diplomatic ties and global engagement. The event fosters a sense of national pride and collective identity among citizens. Historical background of Republic Day India attained Independence on August 15, 1947. The date was chosen by Lord Louis Mountbatten to coincide with the second anniversary of Japan’s surrender to the Allied forces during the Second World War. Following Independence, India did not have its own Constitution. The country was governed under a modified version of the Government of India Act, 1935, based largely on the British legal system. To address this, a Drafting Committee was formed soon after Independence, with Dr B. R. Ambedkar as its chairman. After extensive deliberations, the Constitution of India was completed and adopted on November 26, 1949, a day now observed as Constitution Day. The Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking India’s transition into a sovereign democratic republic. The date was chosen to honour the 1930 declaration of Purna Swaraj (complete independence).
23 January,2026 04:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentHimachal Pradesh witnessed widespread rain and snowfall over the past 24 hours, while temperatures in several parts of the state remained above normal, according to the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) Meteorological Centre in Shimla. Realised Snowfall over Met-Subdivisions during past 24 hours till 0830 Hrs IST of Today- 23rd January, 2026Snowfall has been recorded at isolated places over Jammu-Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh.For more information, visit Us : https://t.co/wV5bB4nhOG#SnowfallUpdate… pic.twitter.com/WECjlfMp8L — India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) January 23, 2026 The minimum temperatures in the low hills, plains, and high hill stations rose by 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, while mid-hill stations recorded a drop of 2 to 6 degrees Celsius during the period, news agency ANI reported, citing IMD. Minimum temperatures in the low hills and higher reaches were 3 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal, whereas mid-hill stations remained 2 to 3 degrees Celsius below normal. Maximum temperatures showed no significant change at most locations and stayed 2 to 6 degrees Celsius above normal at many places. Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti reported the lowest minimum temperature in the state at minus 4.2 degrees Celsius, while Neri in Hamirpur district recorded the highest maximum temperature at 25.4 degrees Celsius. Significant rainfall was recorded at Bharwain (25 mm), Amb (21 mm), Aghar (17.6 mm), Kandaghat (17 mm), Pachhad (15.3 mm) and Rajgarh (14 mm), among other stations, ANI reported. Snowfall was reported in several higher reaches, with Kothi receiving 15 cm, Gondla 12 cm, Kukumseri 6.8 cm, Jot 6 cm, Saloni 5 cm, Manali 4.8 cm, Keylong 4 cm, Kufri 4 cm, and Shimla 0.6 cm. IMD warns of thunderstorms, gusty winds, and renewed weather activity from Jan 26 in Himachal IMD also reported thunderstorms at isolated places, including Sundernagar, Kangra, Shimla, Murari Devi, and Jubbarhatti. Strong gusty winds were observed, with Narkanda recording wind speeds of up to 87 kmph, followed by Kufri (67 kmph), Seobagh (65 kmph), and Mashobra (59 kmph). No cold wave or cold day conditions were reported during the period. According to the forecast, weather conditions are expected to remain unstable over the next few days, with isolated to scattered precipitation likely across parts of the state, ANI reported. Heavy rain or snowfall is likely at isolated places on Friday, while thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph are also expected at isolated locations. IMD further said that a fresh western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India, including Himachal Pradesh, from January 26, which may trigger renewed weather activity. Advising residents and tourists to remain cautious, the weather bureau said snowfall, gusty winds, and rapidly changing weather conditions could pose risks, particularly in higher reaches and wind-prone areas. (With ANI inputs)
23 January,2026 04:32 PM IST | Shimla | mid-day online correspondentAt least nine people have fallen ill after consuming contaminated drinking water in Mhow tehsil of Madhya Pradesh's Indore district, officials said on Friday. Cases of water-borne diseases were reported from the Patti Bazaar and Chander Marg areas on Thursday night, they said. Indore Collector Shivam Verma arrived in Mhow late at night and visited patients undergoing treatment at a hospital, and spoke to residents of the affected areas, an official said. Nine patients have been hospitalised, while a few others are recuperating at home, he said. The official said that personnel from the health department have been on site since Friday morning, under the direction of Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr Madhav Hasani. A team from the Indore Medical College and other specialist doctors are also being sent to the scene, he said. Mhow MLA Usha Thakur also visited the hospital to meet the affected persons. Collector Verma directed the health department to ensure proper and effective treatment for all patients and has instructed the Mhow Cantonment Board to check the water quality and maintain cleanliness in the area. The government is closely monitoring the situation, Verma said. The affected areas will be surveyed, and residents suffering from any symptoms will be provided with appropriate treatment, and critical patients will be admitted to the hospital, he said. No patient is in critical condition at present, and some of them will be discharged during the day, he added. Last month, several people fell ill, and seven deaths linked to water contamination were reported in the Bhagirathpura area of Indore. While residents of the locality have claimed that the outbreak has claimed 25 lives so far, a status report submitted by the Madhya Pradesh government to the High Court on January 15 mentioned seven deaths, including that of a five-month-old boy. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 January,2026 04:31 PM IST | Indore | PTIVietnam's To Lam was re-elected Friday as the general secretary of its ruling Communist Party. The decision came at the conclusion of the National Party Congress, the country's most important political conclave. No announcement was made about whether he will also become president. If To Lam were to get both positions, he would be the country's most powerful leader in decades, in a manner similar to that of Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The Congress was framed by Vietnam's defining national question: whether the country can transform itself into a high-income economy by 2045. During the meeting, Vietnam set a target of average annual GDP growth of 10 percent or more from 2026 to 2030. The gathering brought together nearly 1,600 delegates to define Vietnam's political and economic direction through 2031. It also confirmed a slate of senior appointments, electing 19 members to the Politburo, the country's top leadership body. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 January,2026 04:30 PM IST | Hanoi | APThe Supreme Court on Friday issued fresh notices to Anil Ambani and the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG) on a PIL seeking a court-monitored probe into alleged massive banking and corporate fraud involving the firm and its group companies. As reported by news agency PTI, the apex court on Friday asked the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate to file status reports in sealed cover in ten days on their ongoing probes into the alleged fraud. The arguments on behalf of the ED and the CBI were put up by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi took note of the fact that Anil Ambani and the ADAG had already been served with the notices of the PIL filed by petitioner and former Union secretary E A S Sarma. Earlier the bench issued notices to probe agencies and Anil Ambani Earlier on November 18, 2024, the bench issued notices to the Centre, CBI, ED, Anil Ambani, and ADAG on the PIL. The bench, while issuing the notice, stated that it was granting the last opportunity to Anil Ambani and the ADAG to appear and file their responses in the case. Furthermore, the bench asked the Bombay High Court's Registrar General to ensure service of notices on Anil Ambani and the ADAG and file a compliance report. Following the issuing of the notices, the Bench then fixed the plea for hearing after 10 days. Earlier, the bench took note of the submissions made by lawyer Prashant Bhushan, appearing for petitioner Sarma, and sought the replies of the parties. within three weeks. However, the bench posted the PIL for further hearing after three weeks. Bhushan alleged that the probe agencies are not investigating the alleged complicity of banks and their officials in the huge banking fraud.He later directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to file respective status reports with regard to the probe against banks and their officials in the case. Bhushan submitted that the instant case is "probably the largest corporate fraud in India's history," as per PTI. In reply, the lawyer said that the FIR was registered in 2025, though the fraud had been going on since 2007-08. He asserted, "We want a status report from the ED and the CBI on what they are investigating. Clearly, they are not probing the collusion by the banks, as per PTI. The PIL alleged systematic diversion of public funds, fabrication of financial statements, and institutional complicity across multiple entities of the Anil Ambani-led Reliance ADAG. (With inputs from PTI)
23 January,2026 03:24 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched various developmental projects during his visit to Kerala. Modi on Friday also flagged off new train services, saying that a new realization has emerged among the people about the Centre's efforts for the state's development. Speaking after launching the projects and flagging off the trains at Thiruvananthapuram, the Prime Minister said that the day marks a new momentum in the development of Kerala, driven by the efforts of the central government, as per PTI. Prime Minister Modi also added that the rail connectivity has been further strengthened and the launched projects will help to transform Thiruvananthapuram into a major hub in the country. PM Modi flags off three new Amrit Bharat trains Modi on Friday flagged off three Amrit Bharat Express trains and a Thrissur-Guruvayur passenger train which will help to enhance regional rail connectivity between Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, as per PTI. Additionally, the Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a CSIR-NIIST Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Hub in Thiruvananthapuram and launched the PM SVANidhi Credit Card, a UPI-linked, interest-free revolving credit facility. PM Modi disburses loans amounts and credit cards Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Kerala also disbursed loan amounts and credit cards to several beneficiaries under the PM SVANidhi scheme. Furthermore, he also said that the scheme was aimed at the welfare of the poor across Kerala and the nation. Besides these, he also laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Radiosurgery Centre at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology in the city and inaugurated the new Poojappura Head Post Office. While addressing the public, Modi congratulated the people of Kerala and the entire nation for these significant developmental achievements. He said that in order to build a 'Viksit Bharat', the entire nation was working together.The Prime Minister emphasised, “Our cities have played a crucial role in this development. For the past 11 years, our government has made significant investments in urban infrastructure,” as cited by PTI. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his welcome address, said that the projects launched by the PM would go a long way in the development of the state. Kerala Chief Minister Vijayan said, “These are of great significance so far as Kerala is concerned. This is a cherished moment of satisfaction for the state government as we have been consistently seeking the union government's green signal for many of these projects,” as per PTI. The Chief Minister also expressed hope that “this concern and good will gesture” will continue to be shown to the southern state in the times to come. (With inputs from PTI)
23 January,2026 12:58 PM IST | Thiruvananthapuram | mid-day online correspondentThe Enforcement Directorate on Friday conducted raids in Goa, Delhi and Haryana after it filed a money laundering case against the owners of a Goa-based nightclub where 25 people were killed in a devastating fire in December last year, officials said, reported news agency PTI. Multiple offices and residences searched across states About eight-nine premises, including the offices and residential locations of brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra and co-owner Ajay Gupta located at Kingsway Camp in the national capital, Tatvam Villas in Gurugram (Haryana) apart from that of sarpanch Roshan Redkar and panchayat secretary Raghuvir Bagkar in Goa are being searched, reported PTI. Village officials accused of issuing illegal licences Redkar and Bagkar are alleged to have facilitated and issued illegal trade licences and NOCs for the club, as per ED officials, reported PTI. Probe focuses on illegal land conversion Agency officials are also present at the premises of Surinder Kumar Khosla, a British national believed to one of the owners of the club, to examine the money laundering angle arising from the illegal conversion of 'khazan' land (salt pan) on which the Birch by Romeo Lane club was located. Case booked under PMLA provisions The action is being undertaken after the federal probe agency booked a case under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the officials said, reported PTI. Officials said the searches aim to examine documents related to the ownership, operations and financial transactions of the entities under scrutiny. The probe stems from the major fire incident in Goa that had raised serious concerns over violations of safety norms and alleged lapses in regulatory compliance. Following the incident, multiple agencies initiated investigations to ascertain criminal liability, including possible money laundering linked to illegal construction, licensing violations and financial gains derived from non-compliance with fire and safety regulations. Sources indicated that the ED's investigation is based on a predicate offence registered by local authorities, after which the central agency stepped in to examine the money trail. Fire broke out during dance party in December The fire broke out on December 6, 2025 at the nightclub in Goa's Arpora village, when it was hosting a dance party. As many as 50 people were injured in the incident. Luthra brothers deported after fleeing India The Luthra brothers fled the country hours after the incident and travelled to Thailand. They were later deported to India on December 17 last year and are currently in the custody of Goa police. (With inputs from PTI)
23 January,2026 12:57 PM IST | Panaji/New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1769165159694_d.png "At least nine people fell ill due to contaminated drinking water in Mhow, Indore. File Pic")
-1769163217347_d.png "Vietnam's To Lam re-elected as the general secretary of the Communist Party. PIC/AFP")
-1769160044451_d.png "Anil Ambani, ADAG get last chance to respond in court-monitored fraud probe. File Pic")
