Prashant Kishor Starts Fast Unto Death to Press Demand for BPSC Exam Cancellation 2
Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor on Thursday announced that he was commencing a fast unto death to press the demand for cancellation of the recently held Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam.
Kishor made the announcement at the historic Gandhi Maidan, a couple of kilometres from the spot where several aggrieved candidates have been on a round-the-clock protest for nearly two weeks.
“My demands include cancellation of the exam and holding of fresh tests. I also seek action against corrupt officials who had allegedly put posts, to be filled by the exams, on sale,” Kishor told reporters.
On Monday, shortly after a delegation of protesters met Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena, Kishor had said he would wait for “48 hours” and intensify the stir if the Nitish Kumar government failed to take any action on the alleged paper leak for the Combined Competitive Exams held on December 13 last year.
Mamata Accuses BSF of Allowing Infiltration to Destabilize Bengal; BJP Counters 4
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday accused the Border Security Force of facilitating infiltration from Bangladesh as part of a central government “blueprint” to destabilize the state, a charge the BSF denied, asserting it diligently guards the country’s boundary.
Speaking at an administrative review meeting at the state secretariat, Banerjee alleged that the BSF was allowing infiltrators to enter through areas like Islampur, Sitai, and Chopra.
“We have information that the BSF is letting infiltrators enter India through various border areas. This is a deliberate attempt to destabilize the state. There is a deep-rooted conspiracy involving the central government,” she said.
Banerjee said she could sense a “blueprint of the Centre” behind this attitude of the BSF.
“Goons are entering India. I want peace on both sides of the border. We have a good relationship with neighbouring Bangladesh,” she said.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo further alleged that women were being tortured by the BSF.
“They (BSF) torture women, but why haven’t you protested?” she asked officials present at the meeting.
Banerjee emphasized that border security was not the responsibility of the state.
“The guarding of borders is not in our hands. It’s the BSF’s duty. The Trinamool Congress doesn’t guard the border. When people enter, where are they going? The DMs have information on where they are going,” she said.
A senior BSF official in the eastern region dismissed the allegations, emphasizing that the border guarding force was performing its duties with utmost sincerity.
“The BSF has maintained a 24/7 vigil along the border. We are diligently performing our responsibilities to ensure the safety and security of the borders,” the official told PTI on condition of anonymity.
Accusing the Centre of blaming the TMC unfairly for the infiltration issue, Banerjee said, “If someone thinks to destabilize the state and blame it on the Trinamool Congress, I will say it is not the TMC’s fault, as border areas are controlled by the BSF. Some media channels are spreading this misinformation for TRPs.” The CM also raised concerns about the cessation of information sharing related to international arrivals.
“Granting visas is not in the state’s jurisdiction; it is handled by the central government. We used to get the list of people taking flights to come here, but now that has been stopped. So, we don’t know who is entering Bengal through international arrivals,” she stated.
BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar called Banerjee’s claims baseless and accused her of attempting to shield her party’s shortcomings.
“The chief minister has reached the height of delusion. Despite not providing land for border outposts, she blames the BSF and even her own administration’s officials for infiltration. Her accusations are aimed at deflecting from her party’s failures,” Majumdar said in a post on X.
Banerjee directed Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Kumar to investigate where infiltrators were staying after entering the state.
“I have told the Centre several times that we will follow their decisions. But if I see that someone is helping terrorism to disturb my state, then we will protest. That’s why I will send a strong protest letter to the Centre,” she added.
Referring to a recent bust of a fake passport racket by West Bengal Police, Banerjee said the arrests highlighted how the porous borders were being exploited.
“The passports were issued to people who illegally entered India from Bangladesh. This is another indication of the need for better coordination,” she said.
Highlighting the cultural and linguistic ties with Bangladesh, Banerjee stressed her desire for peace.
“We have a good relationship with Bangladesh. People can come here for treatment, but we must be informed. I want peace on both sides of the border,” she said.
India and Bangladesh share a 4,096-km border of which 2,217 KM is with West Bengal, much of which is porous. The issue has gained prominence amid heightened tension following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina from power in Dhaka and an influx of refugees into India.
Banerjee concluded by reiterating her commitment to opposing any attempt to destabilize the state.
“If anyone supports terror to disturb my state, we will protest strongly,” she said.
Bangladesh Court Denies Bail to Hindu Monk Amid Rising Tensions; ISKCON Expresses Outrage 6
ISKCON Kolkata has expressed deep disappointment over a Bangladesh court’s decision to deny bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu spiritual leader facing sedition charges. The development, which took place on Thursday, highlights growing concerns over the safety and rights of the Hindu minority in the neighbouring country.
Radharamn Das, ISKCON Kolkata’s spokesperson, described the denial of bail as “sad,” though he acknowledged a minor positive outcome: the monk was finally represented by legal counsel, a right previously denied in earlier hearings. “We were hoping he would be freed in the new year,” Das remarked.
The court proceedings occurred virtually, as Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON leader, was not physically present. He has been in custody since his arrest at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on November 25, with reports suggesting his health has significantly deteriorated during his 40-day detention.
ISKCON has raised concerns over threats made by certain advocates against lawyers willing to represent the monk. Das emphasized the need for the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, to ensure adequate security for legal representatives both inside and outside the court. “We hope the higher court will grant him justice, especially given his health condition and prolonged detention,” he said.
The case against Chinmoy Krishna Das unfolds amidst heightened tensions for Bangladesh’s Hindu community. Following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5 by a student-led protest, the interim government has faced criticism for its handling of communal violence. Attacks on Hindu community members and their places of worship have reportedly surged, exacerbating fears of persecution under the current regime.
As ISKCON contemplates an appeal to a higher court, global attention remains fixed on the plight of Bangladesh’s minority communities, with many calling for immediate action to safeguard their rights and security.
Congress Leader's 'Smaller Fish vs. Big Fish' Jibe Sparks Controversy in Beed Sarpanch Murder Case 8
Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar stirred controversy on Thursday by suggesting that “smaller fish” might be killed in an encounter to protect the “big fish” in the Beed sarpanch murder case. His remarks, made during a press interaction in Nagpur, come days after Walmik Karad, an associate of Maharashtra NCP minister Dhananjay Munde, surrendered to the police.
Karad, wanted in connection with an extortion case tied to the brutal December 9 murder of Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, was remanded to 14-day police custody after surrendering in Pune. Deshmukh was allegedly abducted and murdered for opposing extortion demands made to a windmill company.
Wadettiwar, without elaborating, claimed, “According to reliable sources, smaller fish could be killed in an encounter to save the big fish.” He also questioned whether beds were being taken to a police station for Karad, demanding an inquiry into alleged preferential treatment.
The Maharashtra government, facing mounting criticism, announced a 10-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the sarpanch’s murder. The case has brought fresh scrutiny on the administration in Beed and the alleged connections between political figures and criminal activities.
Wadettiwar also took aim at the ruling Mahayuti government ahead of a cabinet meeting, urging them to deliver on promises made during the elections. He highlighted demands for increasing the monthly stipend under the Ladki Bahin scheme for women from ₹1,500 to ₹2,100 and granting a complete waiver of farmers’ loans.
The Ladki Bahin scheme, credited for the BJP-led coalition’s sweeping victory in the November 2024 assembly polls, remains a focal point of public interest. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently reiterated his commitment to the scheme and its proposed enhancements, seeking to honor pre-poll promises to voters.
As the SIT begins its investigation, Wadettiwar’s pointed remarks have intensified political tensions in Maharashtra, with opposition leaders keeping the government under close scrutiny over the unfolding scandal.
PM Modi and Diljit Dosanjh Share Spotlight in a Candid Cultural Exchange 10
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh on Wednesday, praising his journey from humble beginnings to achieving international fame.
“A very memorable interaction,” Modi remarked on Instagram, sharing a brief clip of their meeting. On X, he posted, “A great interaction with Diljit Dosanjh! He’s truly multifaceted, blending talent and tradition. We connected over music, culture, and more.”
The meeting comes amidst recent criticism of Dosanjh by some right-wing groups over various issues. However, the singer-actor struck a positive note post-meeting, tweeting, “A fantastic start to 2025. A very memorable meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We talked about a lot of things, including music, of course!”
New Orleans New Year Tragedy: 15 Dead in Suspected ISIS-Inspired Attack 12
New Orleans’ vibrant New Year celebrations turned into chaos when a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd near the iconic Bourbon Street early Wednesday, killing 15 people and injuring dozens. Authorities are now probing potential links between the attacker and the Islamic State terrorist group.
The suspect, identified as Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, a 42-year-old Army veteran from Texas, was killed in a shootout with police shortly after crashing the rented truck. The attack, which occurred just after 3 a.m., has left the city reeling and raised serious concerns about public safety in the bustling French Quarter.
Inside the vehicle, investigators found an ISIS flag, firearms, and a possible explosive device, further fueling suspicions of a coordinated terrorist act. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick revealed that two officers sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire but are expected to recover.
“This was a premeditated act of terror that exploited a temporary gap in security,” Kirkpatrick said, referencing adjustments made due to ongoing repairs in the area ahead of next month’s Super Bowl.
The tragic incident, one of the deadliest in New Orleans’ recent history, also led to the postponement of the Sugar Bowl, initially scheduled for Wednesday at the Superdome. The game has been rescheduled for Thursday as officials work to restore a sense of safety and normalcy.
Federal investigators are urgently piecing together Jabbar’s motives and any ties to international terrorist networks. Alethea Duncan, an assistant special agent with the FBI, stated, “This investigation is moving swiftly, and we’re pursuing every lead. We urge anyone with information to come forward.”
PM Modi Applauds Maharashtra's Push to Crush Naxal Dominance and Boost Development 14
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Maharashtra government’s initiatives for fostering all-round development in the state’s Maoist-affected and remote regions. His remarks followed Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s visit to Gadchiroli, a district long plagued by Naxalite extremism, where significant strides against the insurgency were showcased.
During the visit, several Naxal cadres surrendered, signaling a decline in their dominance. Fadnavis also announced a slew of developmental projects aimed at improving infrastructure and services in these marginalized areas.
Taking to X, Modi stated, “I laud the Maharashtra Government’s efforts to ensure all-round development in remote and Maoist-affected areas. This will certainly boost ‘Ease of Living’ and pave the way for even more progress. A special congratulations to my sisters and brothers of Gadchiroli and the surrounding areas!”
I laud the Maharashtra Government's efforts to ensure all-round development in remote and Maoist-affected areas. This will certainly boost 'Ease of Living' and pave the way for even more progress. A special congratulations to my sisters and brothers of Gadchiroli and the… https://t.co/IbDVZ4GO2v
The Prime Minister’s remarks came in response to Fadnavis highlighting his administration’s commitment to eradicating left-wing extremism and uplifting communities in the region through sustained development efforts.
IDF Confirms Elimination of Hamas Commander Abd Al-Hadi Sabah in Gaza Drone Strike 16
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday (local time) confirmed the killing of Hamas’ Nukhba Platoon commander, Abd al-Hadi Sabah, in a recent drone strike.
As per the IDF, Sabah had led the attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7, 2023, massacre.
The Nukhba Platoon commander in Hamas’ Western Khan Yunis Battalion was eliminated in the Khan Yunis area of southern Gaza, the IDF added in its statement.
“Abd al-Hadi Sabah, a Nukhba Platoon Commander in the Western Khan Yunis Battalion, was eliminated in an intelligence-based IDF and ISA strike,” the IDF wrote on X.
They also added, “Abd al-Hadi Sabah—who operated from a shelter in the humanitarian area in Khan Yunis—was one of the leaders of the infiltration into Kibbutz Nir Oz during the murderous October 7 Massacre. Sabah also led and advanced numerous terrorist attacks against IDF troops throughout the current war. The IDF and ISA will continue to operate against all of the terrorists who took part in the murderous October 7 Massacre.”
Earlier, the IDF reported that its units, working with the Shin Bet (Israel’s General Security Service), eliminated 14 Hamas terrorists, six of whom had participated in the October 7 massacre. These operations were carried out as part of the IDF’s 162nd “Steel” Division’s ongoing activity in the Gaza Strip.
The 162nd Division operated in the areas of Jabalia and Beit Lahia as part of the joint activity of the IDF and Shin Bet to locate and eliminate terrorists who took part in the October 7 attack.
The 162nd Division has been operating in the areas of Jabalia and Beit Lahia as part of the joint effort between the IDF and Shin Bet to locate and eliminate terrorists involved in the October 7 attack.
On October 7 last year, Hamas launched a massive terror attack on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages. Around 100 hostages remain in captivity, with many feared dead.
In response, Israel launched a strong counteroffensive targeting Hamas units in Gaza. However, the Israeli operation has resulted in over 45,000 Palestinian casualties in Gaza. The mounting civilian toll has raised global concerns and increased calls for a ceasefire.
The conflict has escalated further, with Houthi rebels from Yemen and Hezbollah from Lebanon—both considered Iran’s proxies—intensifying their offensives against Israel, compelling Tel Aviv to engage in a multi-front war.
The growing misuse of Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code, originally enacted to protect women from cruelty and harassment, is a pressing concern that demands immediate legislative and judicial attention. The alarming trend of exploiting this provision to implicate not only husbands but also their extended families is causing untold harm and undermining the law’s intended purpose. While safeguarding women’s rights remains paramount, the unchecked misuse of such a potent legal tool must be addressed to maintain balance and fairness in the justice system.
A recent judgement by the Supreme Court in Dara Lakshmi Narayana & Others vs. State of Telangana & Another has once again highlighted this issue. Delivered on December 10, 2024, the Court strongly cautioned against the nefarious tendency to indiscriminately involve entire families in cases arising from matrimonial disputes. Such misuse of the law not only dilutes its efficacy but also destroys the lives of innocent individuals who are falsely accused. The court’s words serve as a dire warning and a call for reform to prevent further abuse of Section 498A.
The tragic suicides of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash and Delhi café co-founder Puneet Khurana serve as stark reminders of the human cost of this misuse. Atul Subhash, a 34-year-old professional, took his life after enduring relentless harassment from his estranged wife and her family. His heartbreaking video and 24-page suicide note revealed his ordeal, including allegations of systemic corruption where a judge allegedly demanded a bribe to settle his case. These revelations paint a grim picture of the intersection of personal vendettas and systemic failures that pushed him to the brink.
Similarly, Puneet Khurana’s suicide on New Year’s Eve underscores the toll such harassment can take. Puneet, co-founder of a well-known café in Delhi, had been embroiled in a contentious marital and business dispute with his wife. Audio recordings and other evidence point to persistent threats and demands, including financial extortion and the threat of implicating his parents in false cases. His tragic end, after years of emotional and mental torture, highlights the urgent need for systemic safeguards to prevent such abuses.
These cases are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a larger problem that needs to be confronted with seriousness and resolve. While the intent behind Section 498A is noble, its implementation has, in some instances, turned into a weapon for personal vendettas. The misuse of the law, coupled with the lack of adequate safeguards, has led to devastating consequences, including loss of life. This growing trend necessitates immediate action, both in the form of legislative amendments and a rethinking of how such cases are investigated and prosecuted.
Amending Section 498A to include stringent checks and balances is critical to ensuring that genuine cases of harassment are addressed without allowing the law to be exploited. A thorough preliminary investigation should be mandated before registering cases, and mediation should be encouraged as a first step in resolving disputes. Additionally, penalties for filing false complaints must be enforced to deter misuse. Law enforcement agencies need to be trained to discern between genuine cases and baseless allegations, and judicial oversight must be strengthened to prevent undue harassment.
As a society, we must recognise the gravity of this issue and advocate for reforms that protect all individuals from abuse, regardless of gender. While women’s safety and empowerment remain essential, the misuse of laws meant to protect them cannot be ignored. The tragic stories of Atul Subhash and Puneet Khurana are powerful reminders that justice must be impartial and balanced. Their untimely deaths should galvanise society, lawmakers, and the judiciary into action to ensure that such tragedies are not repeated. A fair and just legal system is not just a necessity; it is a fundamental pillar of a civilised society.
US Cracks Down on Iranian and Russian AI-Driven Election Interference Ahead of 2024 Polls 19
The United States Treasury has imposed sanctions on Iranian and Russian entities accused of attempting to influence the 2024 US presidential election through artificial intelligence-driven disinformation campaigns. The move targets a subsidiary of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and a Russian group affiliated with military intelligence.
In an official statement, the Treasury accused these entities of using AI to generate and disseminate false narratives aimed at creating sociopolitical tensions and misleading the American electorate. The Russian group, identified as the Center for Geopolitical Expertise (CGE), allegedly operated a network of over 100 fake news websites to amplify disinformation and fabricate false accusations against a vice-presidential candidate for 2024. CGE, funded by controversial Russian figure Aleksandr Dugin, had been sanctioned by the US in 2015 for prior interference activities.
The Iranian Cognitive Design Production Center, a subsidiary of the IRGC, was also sanctioned for conducting influence operations targeting the US election. Both entities are accused of exploiting advanced technology to obscure their origins while mimicking legitimate news outlets to propagate falsehoods.
Treasury Acting Undersecretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Bradley Smith condemned these operations, stating, “The Governments of Iran and Russia have targeted our election processes and institutions and sought to divide the American people through targeted disinformation campaigns. The United States will remain vigilant against adversaries who would undermine our democracy.”
Although the sanctioned groups are considered minor economic players, the action underscores escalating tensions between the US and its adversaries. These sanctions highlight ongoing efforts to safeguard democratic processes from foreign interference leveraging cutting-edge technologies.
