Express staffer attacked in Kozhikode

The Kozhikode bureau chief of The New Indian Express M.P. Prashanth was manhandled by a group of men, allegedly belonging to IUML and Youth ...

The Kozhikode bureau chief of The New Indian Express M.P. Prashanth was manhandled by a group of men, allegedly belonging to IUML and Youth League, near the Indiavision office here today.

Prashanth, who was injured in the face and back, has been admitted to hospital where he is currently under observation. Prashanth was attacked while covering the march taken out by the Youth League and IUML cadre in the city on Sunday in protest against the recent media coverage linking Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty in the ice cream parlour sex scandal.

Prashanth, along with other mediapersons, was standing outside the Indiavision office at Cherooty Road, talking to IUML leaders Mayin Haji, T.P.M. Zahir and P.K.K. Bava, when two groups numbering around 25 moved in from either direction, shouting slogans.

‘‘The men then proceeded to attack us in front of the IUML leaders and the policemen stood as mute spectators to the drama,’’ said Prashanth. IUML leaders denied that the attackers were their cadre. The camera equipment of Deshabhimani photographer Praveen was also smashed in the tussle. The Town Police have registered a case.

India warns of ‘likely humanitarian consequences’ after US H-1B visa fee hike

India2 hr ago

India voices concerns over new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa, citing humanitarian impact and family disruptions. Government urges US to address issues, while industry and policymakers study the move for mutual benefits. September 21 deadline for H-1B visa holders to return to US could affect skilled Indian professionals, who make up 72% of beneficiaries.

View all shorts

Live Blog