India Blocks 16 Pakistani YouTube Channels, Slams BBC for Calling Terrorists 'Militants' 2
In a strong move following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government has blocked 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for allegedly spreading provocative, communally sensitive, and misleading narratives targeting India, its Army, and security agencies, officials said on Monday. The action was taken on the recommendations of the Ministry of Home Affairs after the April 22 attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, where 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed.
Officials confirmed that alongside the YouTube ban, the government has formally written to the BBC, criticizing its choice to refer to terrorists as “militants” in its coverage of the tragedy.
“The Government of India has banned Pakistani YouTube channels for disseminating provocative and communally sensitive content, false narratives, and misinformation against India and its security forces,” an official statement said.
The blocked channels include major Pakistani media outlets and prominent YouTubers such as Dawn News, Irshad Bhatti, SAMAA TV, ARY News, BOL News, Raftar, The Pakistan Referenc, Geo News, Samaa Sports, GNN, Uzair Cricket, Umar Cheema Exclusive, Asma Shirazi, Muneeb Farooq, SUNO News, and Razi Naama.
The government’s stern measures highlight a growing intolerance towards disinformation campaigns and media narratives that are seen as undermining India’s security and sovereignty.
Omar Abdullah Slams Indus Water Treaty as "Most Unfair Document" to Jammu and Kashmir 4
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday lashed out at the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan, describing it as the “most unfair document” to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. His remarks came after the Centre suspended the treaty in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with tourism, trade, and industry bodies, Abdullah said, “Let’s be honest, Jammu and Kashmir has never been in favour of the Indus Water Treaty.” In response to questions on the Centre’s decision to put the treaty in abeyance, he said that while the full implications remain to be seen, the people of the Union territory have always considered the treaty unjust.
Following the Pahalgam attack, India downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan, expelled military attachés, suspended the Indus Water Treaty of 1960, and closed the Attari land-transit post.
When asked if the government would honour Syed Adil Hussain Shah, the brave ‘ponywallah’ who resisted the terrorists before being killed, Abdullah assured that Shah’s sacrifice would be recognized. “He is a symbol not just of Kashmiriyat but of Kashmiri hospitality, and it is our duty to reward his family and keep his memory alive,” he said. Maharashtra’s tour and travel operators have pledged to support Shah’s family by funding the children’s education and aiding them in the future.
The meeting of tourism and trade stakeholders strongly condemned the attack and expressed collective sorrow. Abdullah praised them for prioritizing solidarity with the victims over business concerns. “Not one participant in today’s meeting brought up losses to tourism or demanded compensation. They focused solely on expressing their grief and support,” he noted.
Regarding the strong condemnations of the attack made in mosques across the Valley, Abdullah said these actions exposed the false narratives spread by some media outlets. He criticized certain television channels for promoting hatred against Kashmiris and praised the observance of a two-minute silence at Jamia Masjid as a true reflection of Kashmiri sentiments.
“Unfortunately, some shameless channels won’t show this, because they thrive on hatred. Some anchors are cowards who are afraid of telling the truth,” Abdullah said sharply.
Meanwhile, Kashmir’s chief cleric and Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq led the Friday congregation at Jamia Masjid in observing a moment of silence in solidarity with the victims of the attack.
On reports of harassment of Kashmiris outside the Union territory, Abdullah confirmed that he raised the issue directly with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Shah reportedly assured Abdullah that steps were being taken to protect Kashmiri students, traders, and other citizens across India, with advisories being issued and liaison efforts initiated by Jammu and Kashmir’s government with other states.
Abdullah concluded by stating that ministerial colleagues would personally visit states where Kashmiris are residing to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
A Clarion Call for Unity, Strength, and Dharma: Dr Mohan Bhagwat's Unflinching Message to the Nation 6
Attending the Lata Dinanath Mangeshkar Puraskar was not just a ceremonial experience—it was a reminder of the moral compass this nation must urgently realign itself with. The highlight of the evening was the speech delivered by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat, whose words were not only deeply impactful but also carried a precise message—Bharat must unite or risk erosion from within and attacks from beyond.
He began by acknowledging the very purpose of the award—recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to society and nation-building. “When society appreciates its own”, he said, “it sustains its values and nurtures excellence.” This wasn’t a hollow statement; it was a powerful call to build a culture where positivity is acknowledged and reinforced, rather than ignored or ridiculed.
He urged the audience to not merely applaud achievements in formal ceremonies but to consciously appreciate those around us in daily life. “If you can’t organise an award function, at least take a moment to recognise good qualities in people near you. Acknowledge their strengths first. Only then can you guide them through their weaknesses.” In an age of criticism without contribution, his message was sharp and necessary.
But the speech grew firmer as he addressed the pressing issue of societal fragmentation. He stressed that divisions—of caste, language, and region—are weakening the fabric of Hindu society. “The feeling of belonging arises when unity is practised as a principle, not as convenience.” It was a bold indictment of the identity politics that has plagued us for too long. Unity is not a slogan—it is a duty.
The most emotional and hard-hitting part of his speech was his reaction to the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir. Innocent tourists were shot dead after being asked their religion. “No Hindu would ever do such a thing,” he stated clearly, his voice heavy with both grief and controlled anger. “Because Hindu Dharma, in its essence, is humanity. But let us be clear—if we were united, no one would dare do this to us.”
Then came a lesson from our own Itihasa. He recalled how even Ravana, a mighty scholar, had to be slain because he refused to transform. “Ram didn’t want to kill Ravana. He wanted to reform him. But when that failed, action had to be taken.” The message was unambiguous—when evil does not retreat, it must be confronted with strength.
He invoked the image of Ashtabhuja Devi—the goddess with eight arms, each holding a weapon to eliminate evil. “We need such strength today,” he said. “Moral strength, mental courage, strategic capability. Softness without power is not virtue. It is a vulnerability.”
With precision, he referenced 1962, the year of the Sino-Indian War. “Nature punished us then for not having a capable army.” That defeat was not just territorial; it was psychological. But times have changed. “Now there is anger. But there is hope too. This time, it feels like hope will be fulfilled.”
His words rang like a warning bell when he said, “Only the powerful can afford non-violence. The weak have no such luxury. And if we have power, we must display it when required.” This is not warmongering—it is realism rooted in dharma. Non-violence is not surrender. It is restraint with strength.
Toward the end, he told a symbolic story. A lion, arrogant in his belief that he is the king, bullies smaller animals who all confirm his power. But when he asks an elephant the same question, the elephant flings him aside. “You can intimidate the weak,” Bhagwat ji said, “but the strong will answer differently.”
This wasn’t just a story. It was a statement of where Bharat needs to stand today. We must not be a society that breaks in fear. We must be like the elephant—firm, composed, and ready to respond with strength when provoked.
His speech ended not in applause but in silence—because it left everyone thinking. Thinking about what it really means to be united. Thinking about what we owe our civilisation. Thinking about what it takes to protect Dharma—not just in temples, but in thought, in speech, in conduct.
This was not a speech of empty nationalism. It was a clarion call—to rise, to unite, and to act. And in that moment, every word felt like a vow we all needed to take—for our society, our dharma, and our Bharat.
Centre Defends Waqf Amendment Act, Asserts It Doesn't Violate Religious Freedom 8
The Union government on Friday defended the Waqf Amendment Act before the Supreme Court, arguing that the law does not violate any fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution. In an affidavit filed by Shersha C Shaik Mohiddin, joint secretary in the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the Centre opposed petitions challenging the law’s constitutional validity.
The Centre explained that the amendments to the Waqf Act were meant to regulate the secular aspects of waqf property management and did not interfere with religious freedoms under Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution. The law falls within the government’s regulatory powers, it argued.
A waqf, under Islamic law, is an endowment for religious, educational, or charitable purposes, and each state has a waqf board responsible for managing waqf properties. The 2024 Waqf Amendment Bill proposed amendments to 44 sections of the 1995 Waqf Act. The bill, which Parliament cleared on April 4, includes provisions such as allowing non-Muslims on waqf boards, limiting property donations, and revising waqf tribunal procedures. The bill received presidential assent on April 5 and came into effect on April 8.
The Congress and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen have challenged the constitutionality of the bill in the Supreme Court. In its affidavit, the Centre emphasized that the recognition of waqfs as “valid statutory dedications of property” under the 1995 Waqf Act remained unchanged. The Centre stressed that the new law only regulates secular aspects such as record management, procedural reforms, and administrative structure, not matters of religious ritual or fundamental Islamic obligations.
The government argued that the amendments steer clear of infringing on religious freedoms and should not be subject to any “blanket stay.” The Union government also highlighted the misuse of waqf land, with over 20 lakh hectares of land marked as waqf since 2013, including instances where waqf boards encroached upon private and government land.
Regarding the inclusion of non-Muslims in the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, the Centre argued that these bodies exercise secular functions and that non-Muslim members would not impact the religious rights of Muslims. It also clarified that the maximum number of non-Muslim members would be limited to four out of 22 for the council and three out of 11 for boards.
On the provision allowing a government officer to decide if waqf land has encroached upon government land, the Centre presented examples of waqf boards claiming ownership of government land, public utilities, and protected monuments without proper documentation.
The Centre urged the Supreme Court not to issue any interim order, citing legal precedents that bar courts from staying legislation at the initial stage. The amendments, it said, were passed after thorough analysis by a Joint Parliamentary Committee with representatives from major political parties.
The Supreme Court is set to hear the case on May 5. The Centre had previously assured the court on April 17 that it would not denotify waqf properties or make new appointments to the Waqf Boards until the matter is heard.
SC Slams Rahul Gandhi for Savarkar Remarks, Stays Defamation Case 10
The Supreme Court on Friday reprimanded Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his controversial remark about Hindutva ideologue VD Savarkar, where he claimed that Savarkar had collaborated with the British. A bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Manmohan was hearing a petition that challenged an Allahabad High Court order, which had refused to quash the summons issued by a Lucknow magistrate court regarding Gandhi’s remarks.
While the court stayed the criminal defamation proceedings against the Congress leader, it did not hold back in criticizing his comments. The defamation case was filed following a complaint by lawyer Nripendra Pandey, who accused Gandhi of insulting Savarkar during his Bharat Jodo Yatra in November 2022. Gandhi had referred to Savarkar as a “British servant” who allegedly received a pension from the colonial authorities.
The Supreme Court bench called Gandhi’s statements “irresponsible” and warned the Lok Sabha MP that it would take suo motu action if he made similar remarks in the future. “You have a good point on law and you will get a stay, but any further statement by him will be taken up suo motu. No words on our freedom fighters. They gave us freedom and we treat them like this?” the bench remarked.
The bench further questioned whether Mahatma Gandhi could be labeled a servant of the British for referring to the viceroy as “your faithful servant” in his letters. The court also pointed out that Gandhi’s grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, had praised Savarkar in the past.
The defamation case had a tumultuous journey through the courts. In June 2023, an additional chief judicial magistrate had dismissed Pandey’s complaint, but the complainant appealed. The sessions court allowed the plea and sent the matter back to the Lucknow magistrate court, which then issued summons to Rahul Gandhi in December. The Congress leader had challenged the order in the High Court, which refused to set aside the summons on April 4.
Journalist Assaulted While Covering BJP Protest in J&K Over Pahalgam Terror Attack 12
A senior journalist was hospitalized after being assaulted while covering a BJP protest in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district on Wednesday, following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Rakesh Sharma, a reporter for Dainik Jagran, was attacked at Kalibari Chowk while documenting the protest led by BJP legislators Devinder Manyal, Rajiv Jasrotia, and Bharat Bhushan. The assault has sparked strong condemnation from journalistic circles, with calls for an FIR against the accused.
A video of the incident, showing the assault on Sharma, has gone viral on social media, further fueling outrage. Sharma claimed that while he was covering the protest, a BJP activist named Himanshu Sharma accused the journalists of speaking the “separatist language” for questioning the security situation—specifically regarding the infiltration of terrorists into Kathua and the Pahalgam attack. Despite the peaceful tone from BJP leaders, the situation escalated when Sharma and other journalists were confronted by a group of party supporters, including Himanshu Sharma, Ravinder Singh, Ashwani Sharma, Manjit Singh, Tony, and Parveen Chuna, who then physically attacked Sharma in full public view.
The assault was interrupted by Deputy Superintendent of Police Ravinder Singh, who helped Sharma get medical attention at the Government Medical College hospital. Following the incident, a group of senior journalists met with the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kathua, Shobhit Saxena, demanding immediate action, including the filing of an FIR and the arrest of those responsible.
In response to the assault, journalists in Kathua staged a protest, donning black bands, and announced a boycott of all BJP programs until action is taken against the perpetrators. Solidarity protests were also held outside the press club in Jammu.
The Pradesh Congress Committee strongly condemned the attack, calling it a direct assault on the press’s right to question security issues in the wake of rising terror attacks. PCC spokesperson Ravinder Sharma demanded an apology from BJP president J.P. Nadda and swift action against the accused. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of journalists in the region and the growing intolerance toward critical questions.
A Stirring Salute to a Forgotten Patriot: The Relevance of Kesari Chapter 2 in Today’s India 14
It is important—indeed, imperative—to remember and revere the lives of nationalists who carved the path of India’s freedom with both intellect and courage. Among such stalwarts was Sir Chettur Sankaran Nair, a towering yet under-recognized figure in India’s freedom struggle. The newly released film Kesari Chapter 2, which premiered on 18 April 2025 to mark the 106th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, is a powerful cinematic resurrection of his story—a tale that not only demands remembrance but commands deep reflection.
Directed with conviction and emotional depth, Kesari Chapter 2 serves as a divine sequel to the 2019 film Kesari, and this time, it transports us into the judicial corridors of colonial India, where morality battled might, and a single man stood unshaken against an Empire. Inspired by the book “The Case That Shook the Empire” by Raghu and Pushpa Palat, the film unfolds the extraordinary life of C. Sankaran Nair—a man of law, letters, and national resolve—who dared to indict the British Crown for the genocide at Amritsar.
In an era when Jallianwala Bagh has become a mere pitstop on the tourist trail, stripped of its original context and diluted in collective memory, this film restores its place as a searing symbol of British brutality and Indian resistance. Through a gripping courtroom drama, the movie recounts Nair’s decision to legally challenge General Reginald Dyer, the architect of the massacre. Assigned to “investigate” the incident with an expected cover-up in mind, Nair instead chose truth over complicity, a choice that led him to sue the British government and Dyer himself.
The narrative is enriched by a supporting cast of compelling characters—Pargat Singh, a fiery young revolutionary, and Dilreet Gill, a bold law student—who accompany Nair in his crusade for justice. On the other side stands Neville McKinley, a bitter Anglo-Indian lawyer fueled by personal vendetta and colonial allegiance, setting the stage for a courtroom clash that transcends mere legalities—it becomes a battle for the soul of a nation.
As a writer and citizen, I cannot help but feel deeply moved by the decision to bring such a monumental yet forgotten chapter of Indian history to the screen. Sir Sankaran Nair’s unwavering stand against the British Raj, his dignified dissent within the Viceroy’s Executive Council, and his fierce critique of imperialism have been masterfully portrayed, reminding us that not all battles are fought with guns—some are fought with words, reason, and moral integrity.
The film is not just a biopic—it is a clarion call to today’s youth. It urges us to seek inspiration not merely from trending hashtags but from the pages of our own past. How many among us, even those moderately aware of India’s freedom struggle, truly knew the legacy of Chettur Sankaran Nair before this film? His contributions were vast—Advocate-General of Madras, puisne justice of the Madras High Court, Education Minister on the Viceroy’s Council, President of the Indian National Congress in 1897, and a relentless proponent of Dominion Status for India.
Born in the illustrious Chettur family of Mankara, Palakkad, Nair’s journey was that of brilliance from the very beginning. From his early education at Kozhikode and Madras to his law degree and judicial appointments, he was a man deeply rooted in both tradition and intellect. His wife, Palat Kunhimalu Amma (Lady Sankaran Nair), stood by his side, and their family continued the legacy of distinction.
His resignation from the Viceroy’s Council in 1919, post the Jallianwala massacre, was not merely symbolic—it was a thunderous statement. Even in retirement, his influence continued, whether through his critique in Gandhi and Anarchy (1922) or his active involvement with the Simon Commission deliberations. When others sought relevance through political convenience, Nair sought it through truth and principle.
To the filmmakers, I offer my deepest respect and admiration. You have not only brought history alive—you have ignited a conscience. In an age where content often panders to escapism, Kesari Chapter 2 dares to educate, elevate, and inspire. It reminds us that behind every Independence Day celebration, there were voices like Nair’s that roared in courtrooms, councils, and conventions, demanding dignity for a nation that had been long denied it.
In conclusion, this film is more than a tribute—it is a torch. A torch passed from one generation to another. Let it burn in our hearts. Let it light the minds of the youth. And let us never again forget the name Sir Chettur Sankaran Nair—the man who took the Empire to court and, with a pen sharper than a sword, struck a blow for Bharat Mata.
Bombay HC Shields Kunal Kamra from Arrest, But Defamation Probe Over 'Traitor' Jibe to Continue 16
The Bombay High Court on Friday granted comedian Kunal Kamra permanent protection from arrest in connection with a criminal case registered against him in Mumbai for his satirical jibes directed at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The court, however, allowed the investigation to continue.
A division bench of Justices Sarang Kotwal and SM Modak ruled that if the police intend to question Kamra, they must do so in Chennai, where he is a permanent resident, with prior notice and assistance from local authorities. The bench also directed that no trial court proceedings can commence against Kamra unless the High Court decides on his plea to quash the FIR.
The case stems from a March 23 video uploaded to Kamra’s YouTube channel, where he performed a parody song criticizing Shinde—without naming him directly—by alluding to his 2022 rebellion against then-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, which triggered a major political upheaval in Maharashtra. In the video, Kamra referred to the political defector as a “traitor.”
Following the viral video, Shinde supporters from the Shiv Sena faction allegedly vandalized The Habitat, the Khar-based studio where the act was filmed. On March 24, Mumbai Police booked Kamra under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita’s provisions for defamation and public mischief. Though summoned thrice for questioning, Kamra has yet to appear before investigators.
Earlier, the Bombay High Court had granted Kamra interim protection from arrest on April 16, which has now been made permanent. The Madras High Court had also extended him interim protection until April 17, recognizing his residence in Tamil Nadu.
While Kamra’s legal team argues that the satire was within the bounds of free speech, the controversy continues to stir debates on the limits of political humour and freedom of expression in India.
Medha Patkar Arrested, Freed Hours Later in 24-Year-Old Defamation Case Involving Delhi LG 18
Activist and Narmada Bachao Andolan leader Medha Patkar was arrested on Friday and released hours later after furnishing bond assurances in a 24-year-old defamation case filed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. The arrest followed a non-bailable warrant issued earlier this week after Patkar failed to submit probation bonds as directed by the court.
The case dates back to 2001, when Saxena, then heading the Ahmedabad-based NGO National Council for Civil Liberties, accused Patkar of defamation over a press note titled “True Face of Patriot” issued by her on November 25, 2000. The note, according to the court, questioned Saxena’s patriotism and integrity, calling it a “direct attack” on his personal character and public image.
In May, Patkar was convicted of criminal defamation under Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code. While the court granted her one year’s probation in April citing the non-grave nature of the offense, it warned that failing to follow the terms—including furnishing probation bonds and paying a ₹1 lakh fine—would nullify the leniency.
Patkar was expected to appear before the court on Wednesday but remained absent, prompting the judge to issue the warrant, stating she was “deliberately violating the directions.” She was arrested Friday morning and produced before Additional Sessions Judge Vipin Kharb at Saket Court, who allowed her release after her counsel assured that the probation terms would be met later that day.
The case was initially filed in an Ahmedabad court and later transferred to Delhi in 2003. Patkar pleaded not guilty in 2013, but the judgment in May ruled that her statements caused potential irreversible damage to Saxena’s public standing, especially given the sensitive nature of patriotic identity in public discourse.
Lashkar Commander Altaf Lalli Gunned Down in Bandipora: Army Hits Back Days After Pahalgam Massacre 20
In a major breakthrough against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Indian security forces on Friday eliminated top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Altaf Lalli during an encounter in the Bandipora district. The operation comes just days after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people, mostly tourists, dead, sending shockwaves across the nation.
The joint forces launched a cordon and search operation in Kulnar Bazipora area of Bandipora after receiving intelligence inputs about the presence of militants. As the search intensified, the hiding terrorists opened fire on security personnel, triggering a fierce gunfight in which Lalli was gunned down. Two police personnel were injured during the exchange of fire.
Altaf Lalli was a top LeT commander and considered a key player in orchestrating attacks in the Kashmir Valley. His neutralization is seen as a significant blow to the terror network operating in the region.
Coinciding with the encounter, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi arrived in Kashmir to assess the security situation following the recent spate of violence. Accompanied by Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, Commander of the Northern Command, the Army Chief held high-level security briefings with top commanders to review strategies and actions taken post-Pahalgam massacre.
This high-profile visit also comes on the heels of cross-border provocation, as Pakistan resorted to small arms firing along the Line of Control less than 24 hours earlier. The swift elimination of a key Lashkar figure signals India’s hardened stance and accelerated counter-terror operations in the Valley.
