The misfire occurred when a police official was loading the rifle for the salute as Pawar was being given Mukhagni, triggering brief panic at the cremation ground.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Revenue and Land Reforms, Vijay Kumar Sinha, has intensified his campaign against the land mafia and corruption within the department, making it clear that he will not bow to pressure or threats.

The Congress adds a secular sheen to the DMK-led alliance, said Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, admitting that the party is not in any position to face elections alone in Tamil Nadu.