2026

Crime News

Gorakhpur: Man Arrested for Breaking Into Homes, Hitting Sleeping Women on Head

Gorakhpur police have arrested a 30-year-old man identified as Ajay Nishad for allegedly breaking into homes at night and attacking sleeping women by hitting them on the head, in a series of violent incidents that terrorized residents over several months. Police said Nishad carried out five such attacks in different houses in the district, using blunt objects such as iron rods and bed legs, and in one case a woman succumbed to her injuries while others were seriously hurt. According to officials, Nishad had previously been jailed for a 2022 child abuse case and was released on bail before returning to Gorakhpur from Surat, where he had been staying for some time. The attacks reportedly began on July 30, and continued through multiple incidents over several months, targeting homes during late night hours. Police said the accused would often wear black clothes and remain barefoot during the attacks, fleeing the scene after assaulting victims and stealing jewelry. CCTV footage, witness accounts, and tracking by local police helped establish his involvement in the crimes, which prompted the formation of special teams to capture him. Law enforcement officials have stated they will present the case before a fast-track court to ensure stringent punishment for the accused.

Crime News

Gorakhpur NEET Aspirant Killing Key Accused Injured in Police Encounter, 4 Arrested

Police in Uttar Pradesh have arrested four men in connection with the murder of a 19-year-old NEET aspirant, Deepak Gupta, in Gorakhpur’s Pipraich area, and injured a key suspect in a police encounter. The operation was carried out jointly by the Pipraich and Kushinagar police teams after Deepak was allegedly killed by suspected cattle smugglers earlier this month. The prime accused, identified as Rahim, was intercepted near Ramkola Road while attempting to flee and was shot in the legs during a gunfight before being taken into custody and hospitalized under heavy security. Another suspect, Ajab Hussain, was captured by villagers and remains in hospital, while two others named Chotu and Raju were arrested late Tuesday night. According to police, the accused men had allegedly entered a village in the early hours, disturbing cattle sheds and prompting locals, including Deepak, to chase them. Deepak was reportedly subjugated and later found dead several kilometres from his home, leading to widespread outrage in the area. Following the arrests, law enforcement intensified efforts to track down the remaining fugitives, with specialized teams deployed to surrounding districts.

Sports News

Shagun Kumari

Shagun Kumari, a promising young tennis player from Gorakhpur, continues to achieve recognition on the national junior circuit with impressive performances in recent years. Known for her strong game from the baseline and commitment to improving her skills, she has competed in various national and international junior tournaments. In a recent ITF junior event, Shagun reached the pre-quarterfinals while representing Uttar Pradesh, showcasing her competitive potential among the country’s top junior players. Earlier in her career, Shagun was acknowledged as one of the top five players from Uttar Pradesh selected to interact with international players during Davis Cup events, giving her valuable exposure and learning opportunities from elite competitors. In national rankings, she has also earned notable positions, having previously been ranked among the top five junior tennis players in India in the Under-16 category and a top-30 rank in the Under-18 age group, marking her as a standout talent from Gorakhpur’s tennis community. With continued participation in competitive events and dedication to her sport, Shagun Kumari remains one of the most promising young tennis athletes emerging from eastern Uttar Pradesh, inspiring other young players from her region to pursue excellence on the tennis court. 🎾

Sports News

Vishal Nishad

Vishal Nishad, a young leg-spin bowler from Gorakhpur, is rapidly gaining attention in Indian cricket circles with his impressive performances and recent breakthroughs. Born on 1 April 2005, he bowls leg break and bats right-handed, and has represented the Gaur Gorakhpur Lions in domestic T20 competitions. In the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Vishal’s hard work paid off when he was picked up by the Punjab Kings franchise with a contract worth ₹30 lakh after impressing scouts and coaches during trials and the UPT20 League. His journey — from playing with borrowed money for trials to earning an IPL deal — has been described as a remarkable rise for the young mystery spinner. Vishal’s selection reflects not just his bowling talent but also the growing recognition of players from smaller cities like Gorakhpur in top-tier cricket. As he continues training with his new IPL squad while preparing for domestic tournaments such as the Vijay Hazare Trophy, cricket fans are closely watching his progression and hopeful of his future success on bigger stages.

Political News

Praveen Kumar Nishad

Praveen Kumar Nishad, a prominent leader from the NISHAD Party and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), continues to be a significant figure in Uttar Pradesh politics. He first entered national politics by winning the Gorakhpur Lok Sabha seat in the 2018 by-election as a Samajwadi Party candidate backed by a broad alliance, delivering a historic defeat to the BJP in what was long considered a party stronghold. After his initial victory, Praveen Nishad later joined the BJP along with other leaders, a move that reshaped local political alignments and reflected his growing influence in the region. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Praveen Kumar Nishad contested from the Sant Kabir Nagar constituency on a BJP ticket. Although he delivered a strong performance, he finished as first runner-up, showcasing continued electoral relevance and maintaining support across the region. Nishad has also stayed active on social media and in community engagement, highlighting infrastructure improvements and connectivity projects in his constituency, including bridges and local development initiatives that aim to strengthen service delivery and local infrastructure. As a leader closely associated with the NISHAD Party’s base and BJP’s broader strategy in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Praveen Kumar Nishad remains central to discussions about rural outreach, caste coalition politics, and electoral strategies ahead of future state and national polls.

Political News

Ravi Kishan (Ravindra Shukla)

Ravi Kishan, the Member of Parliament representing Gorakhpur in the Lok Sabha, remains actively involved in ongoing political developments both locally and nationally. He has been fielded again as the BJP candidate from Gorakhpur in recent elections, continuing his strong presence in the constituency which is considered a key BJP stronghold. In recent political activity, Ravi Kishan has taken on the role of a star campaigner in the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections, engaging in rallies and public statements that have sparked lively discussions — including spirited exchanges with fellow Bhojpuri personalities turned politicians over campaign strategies and ideological differences. A notable moment capturing political attention was his meeting with Tej Pratap Yadav at Patna Airport, which generated speculation about emerging political equations in the region, even as the leaders reiterated their focus on public welfare and election goals. As an MP, Ravi Kishan continues to voice his perspectives on national and state politics, criticize opposition strategies, and support his party’s development agenda — all while balancing his roles as both a public representative and a cultural figure.

Tourism News

Veer Bahadur Singh Planetarium

The Veer Bahadur Singh Planetarium, commonly known as Taramandal, is one of Gorakhpur’s most exciting educational attractions, offering visitors a fascinating journey into the world of astronomy and space science. Named in honor of former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Veer Bahadur Singh, the planetarium is equipped with modern projection technology that brings the stars, planets, galaxies, and celestial phenomena to life through immersive shows and visual presentations. Located within the city, the planetarium serves as a valuable learning hub for students, families, and science enthusiasts. Regular shows cover topics such as the solar system, black holes, lunar phases, and cosmic events, making complex astronomy concepts accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages. School groups frequently visit for educational excursions, and public shows are scheduled throughout the week to encourage community interest in science and space exploration. Recently, the Veer Bahadur Singh Planetarium has updated its programming with enhanced digital projections and interactive sessions, allowing visitors to experience simulated night skies, planetary motion, and space missions in high resolution. These upgrades have resulted in increased attendance from students and visitors across the region, strengthening the planetarium’s role as a key educational and recreational destination in Gorakhpur. With its blend of science, technology, and visual storytelling, Taramandal continues to inspire curiosity and wonder, encouraging visitors to explore the mysteries of the universe while providing a fun and educational experience for all.

Tourism News

Kushmi Jungle

Kushmi Jungle, located near the outskirts of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, is a popular natural forest area and wildlife spot that offers residents and visitors a refreshing escape from urban life. Known for its dense tree cover, varied plant species, and peaceful trails, Kushmi Jungle has become a favored destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers looking to explore the outdoors. The forest area is home to a variety of local wildlife, butterflies, and native birds that attract photographers and wildlife enthusiasts throughout the year. Visitors often enjoy walking through the shaded paths, listening to rustling leaves and birdsong, and capturing scenic views of the natural landscape. Small streams and seasonal water bodies within the forest further enhance its charm, especially during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Recently, local authorities and environmental groups have increased focus on conservation and cleanliness efforts in Kushmi Jungle to protect its biodiversity and promote eco-tourism activities. Awareness campaigns are underway to encourage respectful visitation practices, such as minimizing litter, following safety guidelines, and preserving the natural habitat for future generations. With its tranquil environment and proximity to Gorakhpur, Kushmi Jungle continues to be a beloved outdoor destination for families, students, and travelers seeking fresh air, nature walks, picnics, and a deeper connection with the region’s natural heritage.

Tourism News

Government Buddha Museum

The Government Buddha Museum in Gorakhpur is a key cultural and educational institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the heritage of Buddhism, one of the world’s oldest and most influential spiritual traditions. The museum plays an important role in documenting the life, teachings, and legacy of Lord Buddha, and serves as an important destination for students, scholars, devotees, and tourists interested in Buddhist history and philosophy. Situated in a serene and well-maintained campus, the museum houses a rich collection of artifacts, sculptures, manuscripts, and visual exhibits that highlight various aspects of Buddhist culture and art. Visitors can explore insightful displays on the life of Siddhartha Gautama (Lord Buddha), ancient Buddhist relics, intricately carved statues, and interpretive panels that explain the principles of Buddhist thought and the historical spread of Buddhism across India and beyond. Recently, the Government Buddha Museum has drawn increased interest from local residents and tourists alike due to its thoughtfully curated exhibits and educational activities, including guided tours, interactive sessions, and special seminars for students and researchers. The museum also collaborates with cultural organizations and educational institutions to promote awareness about nonviolence, meditation, peace, and spiritual wisdom — values deeply rooted in Buddhist teachings. Recognized as a center for learning and cultural preservation, the Government Buddha Museum in Gorakhpur continues to inspire visitors of all ages, fostering appreciation for India’s ancient spiritual traditions and promoting a deeper understanding of global cultural heritage.

Tourism News

Indian Flag

The Indian National Flag, proudly hoisted across Gorakhpur, symbolizes unity, pride, and the spirit of independence. In every corner of the city — from government buildings and educational institutions to public parks and historical sites like Gorakhnath Mandir, Ramgarh Tal, and Geeta Vatika — the Tricolour stands tall as a tribute to India’s freedom struggle and national identity. Every year on Independence Day (15 August) and Republic Day (26 January), the city of Gorakhpur celebrates with great enthusiasm. Ceremonies are held at key locations where the Indian Flag is ceremonially unfurled, followed by patriotic songs, cultural programs, and community activities that honor the nation’s heritage, freedom fighters, and democratic values. These celebrations bring together people from all walks of life and foster a deep sense of patriotism and unity among citizens. The flag’s display in various public spaces throughout the city also reminds residents of the ideals of peace, harmony, courage, and prosperity — values that are central to Indian identity. Whether at schools, offices, or major public events, the sight of the Indian Flag in Gorakhpur continues to inspire pride, respect, and collective national spirit.