A woman who had travelled from Kawardha to Raipur to collect compensation following her son's death allegedly lost ₹1.60 lakh in cash shortly after withdrawing the money from a Punjab National Bank branch located on the Raipur court premises.

The woman, identified as Mamta Tiwari, told police that she discovered the money missing from her purse after travelling through the city in an e-rickshaw and an auto-rickshaw.

The Civil Lines police have registered a case against an unidentified person and started investigating the suspected theft.

Money Withdrawn From Court Premises Bank

According to the police complaint, Tiwari, a resident of Maharajpur village in Kawardha district, works in the Health Department.

She had travelled to Raipur with her husband, Khedan Tiwari, on September 10 in connection with compensation related to the accidental death of their son.

After completing the court-related work, she withdrew ₹1.60 lakh in cash from the Punjab National Bank branch located within the court premises.

The cash was reportedly kept inside her purse.

Woman Changed Two Vehicles on Way to Bhanpuri

After withdrawing the money, Tiwari and her husband reached the Chhattisgarh Mahatari statue near the city's multi-level parking area at around 4 pm.

From there, they travelled by e-rickshaw to Fafadih Chowk. They then changed vehicles and boarded another auto-rickshaw towards Bhanpuri Chowk.

It was after reaching Bhanpuri that Tiwari checked her purse and allegedly found that the entire ₹1.60 lakh was missing.

She informed her husband and advocate Niranjan Sahu about the missing cash.

Police Suspect Theft During Journey

Tiwari reportedly told police that she suspected someone may have taken the cash from her purse while she was travelling in one of the vehicles.

At this stage, police have not identified the person responsible for the alleged theft.

Investigators are examining whether the cash was stolen inside an auto-rickshaw or at another point along the route.

CCTV Footage Under Scanner

Civil Lines police are examining CCTV footage from the Punjab National Bank branch and the route from the court area through Fafadih to Bhanpuri.

Police are also expected to question the drivers of both vehicles used by the woman and her husband.

Investigators are checking the footage for anyone who may have been following the woman after she withdrew the cash.

The possibility that someone noticed the large cash withdrawal and followed her is also being examined, although police have not confirmed this theory.

Investigation Underway

The incident has prompted investigators to reconstruct the woman's movements from the time she left the bank until she noticed the missing money.

Police are collecting CCTV footage and other information that could help identify the suspect.

For now, the case remains under investigation and the identity of the alleged thief has not been established.

The incident also highlights the risk involved in carrying substantial amounts of cash after withdrawing money from a bank, particularly when travelling through crowded public transport and changing vehicles.

Three officers of the Chhattisgarh State Administrative Service are reportedly under consideration for induction into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) through the promotion quota, with a Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) meeting proposed in New Delhi.

The names being discussed are Abhishek Agrawal, Sachin Bhutda and Rajiv Pandey. The committee is expected to examine their eligibility, service records and other relevant criteria before the process moves towards a final decision.

The possible induction is part of the process through which eligible State Civil Service officers are inducted into the IAS against vacancies in the state cadre.

DPC meeting proposed in Delhi

According to the information provided, the DPC meeting is proposed to be held in Delhi to consider the cases of Chhattisgarh State Administrative Service officers.

Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel and General Administration Department (GAD) Secretary Mukesh Bansal are expected to participate in the meeting on behalf of the state government.

The committee is to be chaired by UPSC Chairman Dr Ajay Kumar. The panel will examine the service records and eligibility of the officers whose names have been forwarded for consideration.

Three officers in focus

The names of Abhishek Agrawal, Sachin Bhutda and Rajiv Pandey are reportedly among those being considered for the IAS induction this year.

Five vacancies are reportedly available for induction from the State Administrative Service. However, the cases of two other officers are understood to have issues that could affect their consideration this time.

As a result, the three names currently being discussed are expected to remain in focus during the DPC process.

However, being considered by the DPC does not mean that IAS induction has been approved. The final outcome will depend on the committee's assessment and subsequent government orders.

Earlier, three officers received IAS induction

The latest process follows the induction of three officers from the 2013 batch of the Chhattisgarh State Administrative Service last year.

The officers who received IAS induction included Sumit Agrawal, Sandeep Agrawal and Ashish Tikaria.

The current exercise is part of the continuing process of considering eligible officers from the same batch and other applicable service criteria for induction into the IAS.

Service record will be examined

The DPC's assessment is expected to cover the officers' service records, eligibility and other prescribed factors.

Such committee proceedings are an important stage in the selection process because State Civil Service officers are not automatically inducted into the IAS simply on the basis of seniority or the availability of vacancies.

The committee's recommendations have to go through the prescribed administrative process before an officer formally enters the IAS cadre.

Final order required for IAS induction

Even if the DPC recommends an officer, formal induction into the IAS requires the subsequent completion of the central government process and issuance of the necessary orders.

Therefore, the names currently being discussed should be viewed as under consideration, rather than as confirmed IAS appointments.

The outcome of the proposed DPC meeting will determine which officers are recommended for induction against the available vacancies.

Administrative circles watching the decision

The process has attracted attention in Chhattisgarh's administrative circles because IAS induction through the promotion quota represents a significant career progression for State Administrative Service officers.

With three names reportedly emerging as the main contenders for the available vacancies, the focus will now be on the DPC's assessment and the recommendations that follow.

The final status of the officers will become clear only after the competent authorities complete the prescribed process and issue formal orders.

Chhattisgarh honoured 64 teachers for their contribution to education at a state-level Teachers’ Day ceremony in Raipur on Saturday, with four educators receiving special Smriti Puraskar for notable work and innovative teaching practices. The awards were presented in the presence of Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and School Education Minister at Chhattisgarh Mandapam in Lok Bhavan.

Among the four special awardees was Pragya Singh from Durg, who was recognised for adopting new approaches to make mathematics easier and more engaging for students. Rajesh Kumar Prajapati of Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai, Kamta Prasad Jaiswal of Korba and Priyanka Goswami of Sarangarh-Bilaigarh were the other recipients. 

Pragya Singh Recognised for Making Maths Engaging

Pragya Singh, a teacher from Durg, received the Dr Mukutdhar Pandey Smriti Puraskar for her efforts to make classroom learning more interesting through new teaching methods.

Her recognition highlights the growing emphasis on innovative approaches in school education, particularly methods that help students understand subjects that are often considered difficult.

The other three special awards were named after prominent Chhattisgarh literary figures. Rajesh Kumar Prajapati received the Dr Padumlal Punnalal Bakshi Smriti Puraskar, Kamta Prasad Jaiswal received the Dr Baldev Prasad Mishra Smriti Puraskar, and Priyanka Goswami received the Gajanan Madhav Muktibodh Smriti Puraskar. 

64 Teachers Selected Across Chhattisgarh

The State Teachers’ Honour was given to educators selected from districts across Chhattisgarh. The awardees included principals, head teachers, lecturers, teachers and assistant teachers working in different categories under the School Education Department.

The selection covered districts including Raipur, Dhamtari, Durg, Bilaspur, Rajnandgaon, Raigarh, Surguja, Bastar, Dantewada, Jashpur and Korba, among others.

The teachers were selected in recognition of their academic work, service and contribution to improving education.

Awards Presented at Raipur Ceremony

The state-level award ceremony was organised at Chhattisgarh Mandapam in Lok Bhavan, Raipur, on Teachers’ Day.

Governor Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai attended the programme along with the School Education Minister and presented the honours to the selected educators.

The ceremony brought together teachers from different parts of the state and recognised their work in classrooms as well as their broader contribution to students and the education system.

Four Smriti Puraskars for Innovative Work

The four special awards are presented in memory of noted literary figures associated with Chhattisgarh. They recognise teachers whose work demonstrates excellence and innovation in education.

For 2025-26, the four recipients were Rajesh Kumar Prajapati, Kamta Prasad Jaiswal, Pragya Singh and Priyanka Goswami. Reports ahead of the ceremony identified the same four teachers for the special honours. 

The awards are intended to encourage teachers to experiment with teaching methods and contribute beyond routine classroom instruction.

Teachers Recognised Across Different Roles

The State Teachers’ Honour was not limited to one category of educator. Principals, head teachers, lecturers and assistant teachers were among those selected.

The broad representation reflects the state's effort to recognise contributions across different levels and responsibilities within government school education.

The 64-teacher selection for 2025-26 had been announced ahead of Teachers’ Day, with teachers from districts across the state included in the list. 

Focus on Better and More Engaging Education

The recognition of Pragya Singh and the three other Smriti Puraskar recipients puts the spotlight on innovative teaching practices alongside conventional academic achievement.

For Chhattisgarh, the Teachers’ Day ceremony served both as a felicitation programme and as recognition of educators working to improve classroom learning.

The state's teacher awards also underline the role of educators in helping students develop stronger academic foundations while making classroom learning more accessible and engaging.

Chhattisgarh celebrated Krishna Janmashtami with temple prayers, midnight birth ceremonies and cultural programmes as devotees gathered across Raipur, Bhilai, Bilaspur, Raigarh and other parts of the state. Temples were decorated with flowers and colourful lights, while bhajans, kirtans and special offerings continued through the night.

The celebrations reached their traditional high point at midnight when devotees marked the birth of Lord Krishna. In Raipur, the festivities also extended to the City Kotwali jail, where a symbolic depiction of Krishna's birth was organised, reflecting the religious traditions associated with Janmashtami.

Krishna Birth Celebrated at Midnight

Devotees gathered at temples through Friday evening, waiting for midnight prayers and the ceremonial birth of Krishna.

At 12 am, temples echoed with devotional chants as priests performed special puja and abhishek. Krishna idols were decorated with flowers and new ornaments, while devotees offered bhog and participated in bhajan and kirtan programmes.

The celebrations attracted families throughout the city, with children also taking part in the festivities.

Janmashtami Observed Inside Raipur Jail

One of the distinctive events took place at the jail located under Raipur's City Kotwali area.

A symbolic Krishna birth ceremony was organised inside the prison premises. The celebration recreated elements traditionally associated with Krishna Janmashtami, when devotees remember the birth of Krishna in a prison cell.

The event brought the religious theme of the festival into the correctional facility, where devotional activities were held for those present.

11 Quintals of Malpua Offered at Jaitusav Math

A major food offering was made at Jaitusav Math in Raipur, where devotees offered around 11 quintals of malpua and one quintal of panjiri as bhog.

The scale of the offering made it one of the notable features of the city's Janmashtami celebrations. Devotees participated in prayers and other rituals around the offering.

Meanwhile, large crowds visiting religious sites also affected traffic movement in some parts of Raipur.

One-Kilometre Traffic Jam in Tatibandh

The Janmashtami crowds led to traffic congestion on the Tatibandh service road, where a queue stretching around one kilometre was reported.

People travelling towards Durg through the service road, including those visiting the ISKCON temple, were caught in the traffic.

The congestion reflected the large number of people travelling to temples and participating in late-evening and midnight celebrations.

Children Dress Up as Krishna

Janmashtami also brought children into the centre of celebrations across Chhattisgarh.

In Bilaspur, families brought children dressed as Krishna to temples. Children appeared in traditional attire, recreating the appearance of Bal Krishna as part of the festival celebrations.

In Ambikapur, a fancy-dress competition was organised for children, giving young participants an opportunity to dress up in traditional and mythological characters.

Raigarh Builds More Than 20 Tableaux

Raigarh prepared more than 20 tableaux for Janmashtami, depicting different aspects of Krishna's life and associated religious traditions.

In Surguja, a Matki Phod competition was organised at the Surguja Palace premises, adding a community and cultural element to the celebrations.

The events drew local participation as devotees combined temple visits with cultural programmes.

Bhilai Echoes With Krishna Bhajans

In Bhilai, devotees participated in devotional singing and dancing during Janmashtami celebrations.

Temple premises echoed with chants of “Hare Krishna, Hare Ram”, while devotees joined bhajans and kirtans. Religious programmes continued around the midnight birth ceremony.

Across Chhattisgarh, the celebrations combined traditional worship with community events, children's programmes and cultural activities. From the symbolic Krishna birth ceremony at Raipur jail to large food offerings and crowded temples, Janmashtami brought devotees together across the state.

Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated across Raipur on Friday, September 4, with temples preparing special abhisheks, bhajan-kirtans, tableaux and midnight birth ceremonies. Several prominent temples in the city have planned elaborate programmes, while the celebrations will also extend to Raipur's City Kotwali, where the birth of Lord Krishna will be staged inside a recreated prison setting.

The festival commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna and is traditionally marked by fasting, devotional programmes and a midnight worship ceremony. In 2026, Janmashtami falls on September 4, although the Nishita period for the midnight ritual extends into the early hours of September 5.

Jaitusav Math to Offer 11 Quintals of Malpua

At Shri Jaitusav Math in Raipur's Purani Basti, preparations have been completed for the birth celebration of Thakurji. A bhajan sandhya is scheduled for 4 pm on September 4, followed by special golden adornment of the deity.

The Krishna birth ceremony will be held around midnight, accompanied by chanting and aarti. The temple will offer 11 quintals of malpua and one quintal of panjiri as bhog. Prasad distribution for devotees is scheduled from 5 pm on September 5.

101-Litre Milk Abhishek at Radha Krishna Temple

At the Radha Krishna Temple in Samta Colony, a special abhishek of Lord Krishna was performed with 101 litres of milkin the morning. The temple and deity have been given special decorations by craftsmen from Kolkata.

Tableau darshan began at 9 am, while devotional programmes and bhajans are scheduled for the evening. The midnight birth ceremony will be followed by a maha aarti.

Three-Day Festival at ISKCON Raipur

ISKCON Raipur at Tatibandh is hosting a multi-day Janmashtami celebration, with programmes including devotional dance, competitions, Krishna's childhood pastimes, bhajan-kirtan, pushpanjali and Kathak performances.

The celebrations include a maha abhishek at 9 pm, followed by the offering of Chhappan Bhog around midnight. A maha aarti is scheduled at 12:15 am. ISKCON's published programme also places Krishna Janmashtami on September 4, with the surrounding celebrations extending to September 5. 

Krishna's Birth to Be Staged at City Kotwali

A distinctive celebration will take place at the City Kotwali police station, where artists dressed as Vasudev, Devaki and prison guards will enact the birth of Lord Krishna.

At midnight, the lights at the police station will reportedly be switched off briefly to recreate the prison scene associated with Krishna's birth. The enactment will show Vasudev carrying the infant Krishna in a basket on his head before taking the deity from the recreated prison to Gopal Mandir in Sadar Bazaar amid devotional chants.

Four-Day Celebration at Dudhadhari Math

Dudhadhari Math and associated temples will continue Janmashtami celebrations until September 7. Bhajan-kirtan programmes began in the morning, while the main birth ceremony and aarti are scheduled around midnight.

The celebrations will conclude on September 7, observed as Ekadashi, with a final programme at midnight.

156-Year-Old Banke Bihari Temple Prepares

The Shri Banke Bihari Temple in Petha Line, Nayapara, is also observing Janmashtami with special rituals. Milk abhishek is scheduled from 8 am to 10 am, followed by shringar darshan at 11:30 am.

Bhajan programmes will continue during the afternoon and evening, with the Krishna birth celebration planned shortly after midnight, at 12:01 am, followed by aarti. The temple is said to be around 156 years old.

Giriraj Temple and Gopal Mandir Plan Special Programmes

At the Giriraj Temple in Boodhapara, worship arrangements include materials brought from the four major pilgrimage centres of Badrinath, Jagannath Puri, Rameswaram and Dwarka. Preparations for the festival reportedly began about a month in advance.

At Gopal Mandir in Sadar Bazaar, the Krishna birth ceremony will be held at midnight on September 4. On September 5, the temple will observe Nand Mahotsav, during which the deity will be placed in a cradle and devotees will celebrate the occasion through bhajans.

In Raigarh, the Shyam Temple and Gauri Shankar Temple have also planned midnight Krishna birth celebrations. Decorative tableaux will remain on display for two days, with devotees expected to visit from surrounding rural areas. Community feasts are scheduled at several places the following day.

Sri Radha Ras Bihari Temple, the ISKCON temple in Raipur, is witnessing a large turnout of devotees on Krishna Janmashtami, with elaborate decorations, special deity adornment and a day-long schedule of religious and cultural programmes. Radha Rani has been dressed in outfits and jewellery brought from Mumbai and Vrindavan, while flowers sourced from Kolkata and Bengaluru have been used to decorate the temple premises.

The temple is hosting special Janmashtami programmes on September 4, including bhajan-kirtan, Krishna’s childhood pastimes, Kathak performances, maha abhishek and maha aarti. Devotees can also participate in darshan and receive prasad during the extended celebrations.

Temple Built on a Strong Foundation

According to ISKCON Raipur vice-president Janardan Das, construction of the temple posed several engineering challenges because the site was previously agricultural land with black soil.

He said the unsuitable soil was removed until a stronger layer was reached, after which a pile foundation system was used for the temple. The temple's structural testing was subsequently carried out by Larsen & Toubro (L&T), according to the information provided by the temple.

The temple management has described the structure as being designed for long-term durability, including resistance to earthquake-related forces. Such claims should be understood as statements from the temple management unless supported by an independently available engineering assessment.

Eight-Sided Shikhars and Makrana Marble

The temple's architectural design incorporates multiple shikhars, which the management says have been built according to traditional scriptural principles. The shikhars are octagonal in design and topped with kalash reportedly made using 1.25 kg of gold.

Marble used in the temple has been sourced from Makrana in Rajasthan, a location widely known for its marble. The combination of traditional architectural elements and detailed stonework forms a prominent part of the temple's design.

265 Lights Illuminate the Temple

Temple designer Apurva Vaidya said a total of 265 lights have been installed across the interior and exterior of the complex.

The central hall features detailed carvings on its pillars, extending up to around 10 feet. Some of the pillars also incorporate depictions associated with the ISKCON tradition, adding decorative and religious elements to the main hall.

Six Aartis and Six Bhog Offerings Daily

The temple follows a regular schedule of devotional rituals throughout the day. According to the temple's programme information, six aartis are conducted daily.

The schedule begins with Mangal Aarti at 4:30 am, followed by Tulsi Aarti at 5 am. Shringar Darshan and Dhupa Aarti take place later in the morning, while Udyapan Aarti is scheduled for 4:15 pm. Sandhya Aarti is held at 7 pm, followed by Shayan Aarti at 8:30 pm.

The temple also maintains regular bhog offerings as part of its daily worship routine.

Janmashtami Programme Runs Into Midnight

The September 4 celebrations begin in the morning and continue into the early hours of September 5.

Bhajan-kirtan is scheduled from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, followed by Raj Bhog at noon and Raj Bhog Aarti at 12:30 pm. From 5 pm to 7 pm, devotees will witness Krishna Pushpanjali and a Kathak performance by Ravi Prakash.

Sandhya Aarti is scheduled for 7 pm, while the main evening ritual will be the Krishna Maha Abhishek from 9 pm to 11:30 pm.

At midnight, Chhappan Bhog will be offered to Lord Krishna, followed by Maha Aarti at 12:15 am.

Darshan Available Till 2 am

Devotees can have darshan from 9 am until 2 am, according to the temple's schedule. Prasad distribution is planned from 10 am until 2 am, while Harinam Sankirtan will continue from 11 am.

The temple has also scheduled aarti at hourly intervals from 7 pm during the main evening celebrations, allowing devotees arriving at different times to participate in the worship programme.

With the combination of traditional rituals, cultural performances, floral decoration and extended darshan hours, the Raipur ISKCON temple is expected to remain a major destination for devotees during Krishna Janmashtami celebrations.

The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday conducted searches at seven locations across Chhattisgarh as part of its money-laundering investigation into alleged irregularities in the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) recruitment process. One of the premises searched was linked to K K Chandrakar, who served as a personal assistant to former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, officials said. 

The searches are being carried out under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). As of the latest reports, the Enforcement Directorate has not disclosed details of any seizures, arrests or recoveries made during Tuesday's operation.

The action comes as the agency continues to investigate alleged corruption, question-paper leaks and manipulation in CGPSC State Service Examinations conducted in 2020 and 2021.

Seven locations searched across Chhattisgarh

According to officials, ED teams carried out searches at seven locations in the state on Tuesday. The premises of K K Chandrakar, a former PA to Bhupesh Baghel, were among the locations covered by the operation. 

Reports from Bhilai said an ED team reached Chandrakar's residence early in the morning and examined documents and other material. Security personnel were also deployed around the premises during the search.

Details about the other locations have not been officially disclosed in the latest ED information available.

Probe linked to alleged CGPSC recruitment irregularities

The ED investigation relates to allegations of corruption and manipulation in the recruitment process conducted by the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission.

The agency's money-laundering case originated from a 2024 FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The underlying allegations include question-paper leaks and manipulation of the selection process in the 2020 and 2021 CGPSC State Service Examinations. 

The investigation has focused on allegations that candidates and relatives of influential individuals benefited from irregularities in the recruitment process.

Former CGPSC chairman Taman Singh Sonwani arrested

The latest searches follow the ED's arrest of former CGPSC chairman Taman Singh Sonwani on July 25, 2026.

According to the ED's official records, Sonwani was arrested under the PMLA in connection with the case involving alleged corruption, question-paper leaks and manipulation of the CGPSC State Service Examinations held in 2020 and 2021. He was subsequently produced before the Special Court (PMLA) in Raipur. 

The agency has alleged that Sonwani facilitated the leakage of examination papers and manipulation of the selection process in exchange for illegal gratification. Investigators are examining the alleged financial transactions connected with the recruitment irregularities.

CBI case preceded ED investigation

The money-laundering probe is based on the CBI case registered in 2024. The CBI had earlier investigated allegations of irregularities in CGPSC recruitment and arrested Sonwani in connection with the case.

The ED subsequently began examining the alleged proceeds of crime and financial transactions associated with the recruitment-related allegations.

According to information cited by investigators, the alleged irregularities relate to recruitment examinations conducted during the period when Sonwani headed the commission.

ED yet to disclose search findings

While the searches are underway, the agency has not yet released a detailed statement on what was found at the seven premises.

Therefore, claims regarding specific recoveries, financial transactions or the involvement of individual persons should not be treated as established unless confirmed by the ED or another investigating authority.

The outcome of Tuesday's searches is expected to provide further details about the agency's investigation and the alleged financial trail connected with the CGPSC case.

The investigation remains ongoing, and allegations made by investigating agencies are subject to further legal proceedings and judicial determination.

As many as 19 people have been killed in Raipur in the 221 days since the commissionerate system came into effect, according to the crime figures cited in a report based on police records. August accounted for the highest number of killings during the period, with 10 murder cases reported in the commissionerate area.

The cases recorded since the implementation of the commissionerate system have involved different circumstances, but several incidents reportedly followed personal disputes, financial disagreements and family conflicts. Police have made arrests in a number of the cases, although the rise in killings during August has raised concerns about violent crime in the city.

The reported figures cover the period beginning with the first murder after the commissionerate system came into operation in January and extending through August 2026.

First murder reported days after commissionerate system

The first killing cited in the period occurred on January 29, just six days after the commissionerate system was implemented. Durgesh Dhruv was allegedly stabbed to death in Samta Colony under Azad Chowk police station limits.

Police arrested the accused in the case. The incident was reportedly linked to a dispute, although there were also discussions about a possible connection with illegal activities.

Financial and family disputes among cases

Several killings reported during March and April were linked to personal or financial disputes.

On March 28, Ajay Agrawal was allegedly stabbed to death in the Tikrapara area following a dispute involving Rs 50,000. In April, a 19-year-old youth was killed in Joginagar under Civil Lines police station limits. Another case involved the alleged strangulation of Parvati Sahu following a family dispute in the Kotwali area.

These cases illustrate how disputes that begin over money or within families can escalate into fatal violence, although the circumstances and motives differ from case to case.

May double murder in Pandri

A double murder in May became one of the more serious incidents recorded during the period.

On the night of May 5, a dispute involving Jitendra Verma and his wife reportedly escalated in Mowa under Pandri police station limits. Verma allegedly opened fire on his two sisters-in-law, Geetanjali and Durgeshwari.

Geetanjali died at the spot, while Durgeshwari succumbed to her injuries during treatment. Police registered two murder cases in connection with the incident.

Three killings reported in June and July

The source data also lists three murders during June and July.

On the night of June 21-22, a man was allegedly beaten to death with stones at the WRS Colony ground in Khamtarai. Police reportedly arrested an accused and a minor within 24 hours.

In July, Bharti Netam was allegedly strangled to death in the Mujgahan area on July 1. Another murder involving Nandani Jain was reported in the WRS area of Khamtarai on July 5. Police arrested accused persons in both cases, according to the supplied information.

August saw sharp rise in killings

August emerged as the deadliest month in the reported period, with 10 killings recorded in the commissionerate area.

Five murders were reported within the first eight days of the month, according to the figures cited in the source report. These included two cases in Khamtarai and one each in Mujgahan, Saraswati Nagar and Amanaka.

Further cases were reported later in the month. On August 14, a young woman was allegedly killed at a hotel under Ganj police station limits. On August 15, Parmpreet Singh was allegedly run over by a car in Amanaka. A murder case was also reported in Gudhiyari on August 18.

On August 24, two young men were allegedly killed in separate incidents in the DD Nagar police station area on the same night.

Disputes frequently preceded violence

The cases cited in the report show a wide range of alleged motives, including financial disagreements, family disputes, personal relationships and arguments between individuals.

In some incidents, seemingly minor disagreements escalated into physical violence involving knives, firearms, stones or strangulation. The pattern highlights the challenge for law enforcement in preventing violence that can emerge rapidly from personal disputes.

While arrests have been reported in several cases, the overall number of killings—particularly the concentration of cases in August—has put the city's crime situation under renewed scrutiny.

The reported 19 killings in 221 days provide a snapshot of serious violent crime during the initial months of the commissionerate system. A clearer assessment of whether the system has affected the overall murder rate would require comparison with verified police data from equivalent periods in previous years.

Raipur Commissionerate Police arrested 82 people facing permanent warrants and seized contraband, weapons and other material worth around Rs 17.30 lakh during a week-long enforcement drive under Operation Vishwas.

The campaign was conducted across the North, West and Central zones of Raipur from August 24 to 30, with police teams focusing on wanted persons, illegal liquor, narcotics, weapons and other activities linked to crime and public disorder.

According to the information released about the operation, police registered 167 cases under the Excise Act and took action against 167 accused. Enforcement was also carried out in 203 cases under Section 170 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and 211 cases under Sections 126/135 of the BNS.

82 permanent warrant accused arrested

One of the major outcomes of the campaign was the arrest of 82 people against whom permanent warrants were pending. Police also conducted checks of known offenders, including habitual criminals, listed goons and surveillance-listed individuals.

Authorities said the exercise was aimed at identifying people involved in criminal activities and preventing repeat offences through intensified field-level monitoring.

60 kg-plus cannabis seized

The campaign also resulted in significant seizures of narcotics and other prohibited substances.

Police recovered 60.339 kg of cannabis, 1,590 banned intoxicant tablets and 10.59 grams of heroin, besides 273 pouches of country-made liquor.

The West Zone recorded the largest narcotics-related seizure during the drive. Police also seized three mobile phones and a Scorpio vehicle in connection with the action.

20 knives and sharp weapons recovered

Raipur police also intensified checks against people carrying knives and other sharp-edged weapons in public places.

A total of 20 cases were registered under the Arms Act, with 20 accused facing action. Police recovered 20 knives and other sharp weapons during these operations.

Of the weapons seized, 12 were recovered in the West Zone, while six were seized in the Central Zone and two in the North Zone.

Checks on habitual offenders

As part of Operation Vishwas, police teams also verified the activities and whereabouts of known offenders.

In the North Zone alone, 62 listed goons and 32 surveillance-listed offenders were checked. The exercise was intended to keep track of people considered vulnerable to involvement in further criminal activity.

The police said such verification and enforcement measures are part of efforts to strengthen preventive policing across the commissionerate.

Campaign to continue

The week-long operation brought together action against wanted persons, illegal liquor, narcotics and illegal weapons under a coordinated enforcement drive.

Police officials said Operation Vishwas will continue, with further action planned against criminals and individuals involved in anti-social activities in the Raipur Commissionerate area.

The latest campaign comes amid increased focus on preventive policing and enforcement against repeat offenders, particularly through warrant execution, surveillance and checks in areas considered vulnerable to criminal activity.

Residents of the Sejbahar Housing Board Colony Phase-1 in Raipur are facing problems due to waterlogging following rainfall, with dirty drain water entering several houses in the area. Water has accumulated at multiple locations in the colony, while poor drainage and waste deposited in drains have worsened the situation.

Residents said movement has also become difficult in several parts of the colony because of accumulated water. They are particularly concerned about stagnant dirty water remaining for extended periods, which they believe could increase mosquito breeding and the risk of waterborne and vector-borne diseases.

Drainage System Fails After Rain

According to local residents, the colony's drains are not being cleaned regularly, affecting the flow of rainwater. Garbage and other waste accumulated inside the drains are preventing water from flowing out properly.

As a result, rainwater and drain water are accumulating within the residential area instead of being effectively discharged.

Residents said the waterlogging problem is not new. They claimed that similar conditions develop in several parts of the colony after heavy rainfall, but a permanent solution has not yet been implemented.

Dirty Water Creates Problems for Residents

The accumulation of dirty water has become a major concern for people living in the affected areas. Residents said they are having difficulty moving through waterlogged stretches, while water entering homes has added to the problems caused by the rainfall.

The prolonged presence of stagnant water has also raised concerns about mosquitoes and other insects that can thrive in such conditions.

Residents Seek Permanent Drainage Solution

Residents said simply removing the accumulated water would not resolve the underlying problem. They have called for regular cleaning of the drains and a permanent drainage arrangement so that rainwater can flow out of the colony during periods of rainfall.

They also said that preventive measures are needed to reduce the possibility of mosquito breeding and the spread of infections associated with prolonged water stagnation.

Demand for Immediate Action

Residents have urged officials of the Housing Board to inspect the affected areas and take immediate steps to clear the clogged drains and remove the accumulated water.

They said a permanent solution to the drainage problem is necessary to prevent the same situation from recurring after future rainfall.

Two people from Chhattisgarh, including a doctor whose father is a senior BJP leader, remain untraced after severe flooding near the Nepal-Tibet border. Dr Meena Gupta from Ambikapur and Dr Priyanka Chaudhary from Bilaspur have reportedly lost contact with their families following the disaster.

A third person, 65-year-old beautician Manju Roy Chaudhary of Bilaspur, was initially reported missing, but officials have received information indicating that she is safe. Authorities are still attempting to establish direct contact with her and verify her current location.

The Chhattisgarh government is coordinating with relevant agencies to gather information about the missing and affected citizens. Meanwhile, five people from Raipur have been confirmed safe and are on their way back from Nepal.

BJP Leader’s Daughter Missing

Dr Meena Gupta, daughter of senior Ambikapur BJP leader Karta Ram Gupta, had travelled to the region as part of a Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage group.

According to her family, Meena was at an immigration centre when the flooding struck. Around 80 people travelling with the group have also reportedly remained out of contact.

The family has been trying to obtain information about her whereabouts since communication was disrupted. Karta Ram Gupta had also been invited by his daughter to join the pilgrimage but could not travel because of other commitments.

Meena completed her early education at Holy Cross School in Ambikapur and is reportedly working as a skin specialist in England.

Doctor From Bilaspur Unreachable

Dr Priyanka Chaudhary, a Bilaspur resident currently living in Finland, also remains untraceable following the flooding.

Her father, Ramesh Chaudhary, said he last spoke to Priyanka’s family on the morning of August 25. During the call, she informed them that she was heading towards the Chinese embassy area for immigration formalities.

Communication was lost shortly afterwards as reports emerged of flooding near the Nepal-Tibet border.

Priyanka had completed her schooling in Bilaspur, followed by BDS studies in Rajnandgaon, MDS in the UK and a PhD in Finland. She has reportedly been living in Finland for around a decade.

Her family had expected her to return to Bilaspur around Raksha Bandhan after completing the Mansarovar pilgrimage.

Manju Reportedly Safe

Manju Roy Chaudhary, 65, had travelled from Bilaspur for the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. She initially travelled alone to Kolkata before joining a group of around 30 people that left for Nepal on August 21.

Her family last spoke to her on August 25. Her return had reportedly been scheduled for September 3.

After communication was disrupted following the flooding, her family approached the administration for assistance. Bilaspur Collector Sanjay Agrawal said information had been received indicating that Manju was safe, although authorities were continuing efforts to establish direct contact.

Five Raipur Residents Safe

Five Raipur residents have been confirmed safe following the disaster. They include Dinesh Ojha, Prem Singh Jagat, Narayan Sen, Yatendra Prakash and Dinesh Singh Thakur.

The five had travelled to Nepal on August 21 and are now returning to Raipur, according to the information provided by the administration.

Authorities have also contacted the family of Raipur resident Monica Yadav after she was reported missing following the floods. Officials are coordinating with the concerned agencies to determine her current status.

Government Coordinates Rescue Efforts

Chhattisgarh Tourism and Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal has reportedly remained in contact with the Centre regarding the situation. He also spoke to Karta Ram Gupta and assured him of all possible assistance in efforts to trace his daughter.

The flooding and landslides near the Nepal-Tibet border have disrupted communication and transportation in several areas, making it difficult for families and authorities to establish contact with people who were travelling in the affected region.

Foreign Nationals Also Missing

According to information cited in the supplied report, more than 1,400 people from 32 countries are among those reported missing following the disaster in Nepal. The affected group includes trekkers, tourists and people travelling for the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage.

The report states that 290 Indian nationals, around 90 Americans, 55 Ukrainians, 51 Malaysians, 39 Australians, 33 Britons and 25 Canadians are among those reported missing. Rescue operations are continuing, with helicopters being used to evacuate people from affected areas wherever conditions permit.

Authorities in Nepal and neighbouring regions continue to collect information about missing people, while families of those who remain untraced are awaiting confirmation about their safety.

A trainee Sub-Inspector in Raipur has been suspended following allegations that he demanded a bribe from a coaching centre operator during an investigation into a fake examination order issued in the name of the Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board (Vyapam).

The suspended police officer has been identified as Mahesh Kumar Ogre. According to the complaint, the trainee SI allegedly demanded ₹1 lakh from the coaching centre operator to settle the matter and was accused of accepting ₹80,000. The allegations came to light after the operator approached senior police officials.

Bribery Allegation During Investigation

The case is linked to a fake examination order that was circulated in connection with the Vyapam Assistant Teacher and Lecturer Recruitment Examination 2026. The Rakhi police were investigating the circulation of the allegedly forged document.

During the investigation, Ogre allegedly pressured the coaching centre operator by warning him of possible police action. The operator later learned that he had no apparent connection with the fake order, but alleged that the police officer continued to demand money.

The complainant subsequently reported the matter to senior police authorities.

SP Orders Action After Inquiry

Following the complaint, senior officials conducted an inquiry into the allegations against the trainee SI. The preliminary findings reportedly raised concerns over alleged coercion, illegal recovery of money and misuse of official position.

Taking action on the findings, the Raipur Rural SP suspended Mahesh Kumar Ogre.

The suspension is an administrative action pending further investigation. The allegations against the officer will have to be established through the appropriate inquiry and legal process.

Fake Vyapam Order Case Under Investigation

The original case concerns a fake examination instruction that was circulated through WhatsApp and social media. The document was presented as an official Vyapam order, although the examination board had not issued it.

Following a complaint, Rakhi police registered a case against unidentified persons and began investigating the source and circulation of the forged document.

Police Probing Both Aspects

The investigation is now focused on two separate but connected aspects. Police are attempting to establish who prepared and circulated the fake Vyapam examination order. At the same time, the allegations of bribery against the trainee SI are also being examined.

Further action in both matters will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation.