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Singapore Envoy Criticizes Gurgaon Cafe’s ‘Tasteless Chai’, Here’s What Chaayos CEO Said

December 15, 2024, 1:57 pm

Singapore High Commissioner to India Simon Wong said that he was “really disappointed” with the “tasteless” cup of chai he received at a café in Gurgaon. Wong posted his experience on social media platform X, saying he paid Rs. 169 (inclusive of tax) for the drink served in a kulhad or earthen cup.

The impossible happened. Just had a cup of tasteless #Chai in Gurgaon. Rs. 169 with tax,” Wong wrote, along with pictures of the kulhad and the café interior. Though he did not name the café, the post quickly attracted attention. With over 253,000 views and many reactions, it remains to be seen how Wong’s quest ends.

The impossible happened. I just had a cup of tasteless #Chai in Gurgaon. Rs 169 with tax.?‍♂️?‍♂️HC Wong. pic.twitter.com/PMVwnvUS2y

— Singapore in India (@SGinIndia) December 14, 2024

To the post of Wong, Nitin Saluja, the founder of chai chain Chaayos, invited Wong publically to one of their outlets. “Hon’ble Mr Wong, in the name of deep India-SG friendship, I invite you for a cup of chai at a Chaayos near you. As we enjoy our chai, I’ll share our commitment to getting every chai right, including our no-questions-asked replacement policy!

Hon’ble Mr Wong, I am Nitin, founder of Chaayos! In the name of deep India SG friendship, I invite you for a cup of Chai at a Chaayos near you! And as we enjoy our chai, i will share our commitment to get every chai right, including our no questions asked chai replacement policy!

— Nitin Saluja (@Salujanitin) December 14, 2024

Wong’s frank review quickly sent shockwaves down social media users. A large majority of people sympathized with Wong by saying he needs to experience India’s road side tea stalls for genuine and budget-friendly chai. A person said, “Sir you should try normal tea stall.”. Overpriced cafés can’t capture the real essence of Indian chai. Another said, “For Rs. 169, you could have treated 16 others to chai from a roadside vendor – without taxes and with far more flavour!

Some users also commented on the pricing policy of the café, one of them saying, “Agreed, sir. The ₹169 is not just for the chai; it’s for the table, ambience, and free Wi-Fi. But if you want real Bhartiya chai, I’d like to invite you to my home.” Responding to the magnanimity of the social media users, Wong said, “The true beauty of India lies in her people. I am overwhelmed by the torrent of invitations to have a cup of the best homemade chai. I humbly thank you all.”

Yuvraj Singh Foundation Defends ‘Check Your Oranges’ Breast Cancer Ad

October 24, 2024, 12:25 pm

In response to significant backlash over their ongoing breast cancer awareness campaign, the YouWeCan foundation has stood by its “Check your oranges” ad. The non-profit, founded by Yuvraj Singh in 2012, issued a statement on Wednesday defending the phrase as a “bold creative choice.”

The controversy began when Dr. Jaison Philip, a Chennai-based urologist and breast surgeon, criticized the campaign on social media, accusing it of “sexualising” and trivializing breast cancer, the most common cancer among Indian women. His post quickly went viral, with numerous celebrities and journalists also weighing in on the issues with the YouWeCan ad, which first appeared on the Delhi Metro.

Yuvraj Singh Foundation that compared breasts to oranges in their viral ‘check your oranges’ breast cancer awareness campaign, responded to a LinkedIn post of mine saying it was a “bold creative choice”. I disagreed.https://t.co/ec7JJ3M2a2 pic.twitter.com/lCNlEoaxgu

— Rituparna Chatterjee (@MasalaBai) October 23, 2024

Rituparna Chatterjee, Deputy Asia Editor for The Independent, expressed on LinkedIn that the hesitation to use the word “breast” directly prevents necessary conversations. Singh’s foundation, however, maintained that the phrase “Check your oranges once a month,” referring to self-examinations, was intended to spark discussions about breast cancer.

“At YouWeCan, we know firsthand how difficult it is to get people to talk openly about breast cancer,” the foundation said. “It’s a topic that many avoid unless it affects them or someone close to them.”

They continued, “Our use of oranges in the campaign was a bold creative choice, carefully thought through, with the goal of breaking the silence surrounding breast cancer. We would never use creative strategies to ridicule or diminish a cause that is so close to our hearts.”

Chatterjee, however, remains unconvinced. “When a roomful of women are telling you that your campaign is making them uncomfortable, kindly listen, acknowledge, and pledge to do better,” she said. She added that women are often “mansplained” or spoken over, especially regarding matters related to their bodies. Comparing the use of oranges to “boys’ locker-room talk,” she noted, “It took us years to find the vocabulary, courage, and awareness to speak up on many things related to wellness, for example, periods. Many of us campaigned against the ridiculous blue ink they showed to signify period blood on TV. Women need to use words and visuals to speak clearly about their conditions.”

Singer Chinmayi Sripada, another vocal critic, emphasized the need for accurate terminology, particularly when teaching children about their bodies to help them report abuse. “It takes years of sensitization and awareness to get parents to not give nicknames for genitalia/private parts. And a tone-deaf dingbat foofoo decided to say ‘oranges’ when he meant breasts for an awareness campaign targeted at women,” she wrote.

Juice Vendor Arrested for Serving Contaminated Fruit Juices

September 14, 2024, 2:40 pm

In a shocking incident, a juice vendor was arrested, and a 15-year-old boy was detained on Friday for allegedly serving fruit juices mixed with human urine to unsuspecting customers, police said.

Public Complaints Lead to Arrest

The arrest came after members of the public lodged complaints, accusing the vendor of mixing urine in the fruit juices he sold. Responding to the alarming claims, the police swiftly intervened to investigate.

Vendor and Juvenile Involvement

According to ACP Ankur Vihar Bhaskar Verma, the accused, identified as Aamir, was arrested after police conducted a search of his juice stall. During the search, officers found a plastic container filled with urine, raising further suspicion. The juvenile involved in the incident has been detained for questioning.

Investigation Ongoing

Police questioned Aamir about the container filled with urine, but he was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation. ACP Verma confirmed that further legal action is underway as authorities continue to investigate the matter.

उक्त प्रकरण के सम्बन्ध में श्री भाष्कर वर्मा, सहायक पुलिस आयुक्त अंकुर विहार की वीडियो बाइट- pic.twitter.com/nH7NIJz2cM

— POLICE COMMISSIONERATE GHAZIABAD (@ghaziabadpolice) September 13, 2024

Australian Woman Highlights ‘Indian Standard Time’ : Watch

September 7, 2024, 11:55 am

Late Arrival, Early Presence:

An Australian woman’s amusing video sheds light on the quirks of Indian punctuality. During her visit to India, she recorded a video after arriving at a party more than an hour late, only to find that she was the first guest there.

In the video, Bree Steele, a podcaster and Instagram user, humorously questions, “How does Indian Standard Time work?” She explains her confusion about arriving early despite being significantly late, highlighting the peculiarity of Indian timekeeping.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bree Steele (@breesteele.mp3)

Viral Video Reaction:

The video, which has garnered over one million views, has sparked a wave of comments from viewers. Some responses include:

“General rule is not to show up until people send you pictures,” joked one viewer.

Another user commented, “IST – Don’t leave the house until you get a text asking where you are.”

A third added, “In India, everybody is in a hurry, but nobody is on time. That’s the general rule.”

Another wrote, “The general rule is if you’re told to be there at 7, start selecting your outfit at 7.”

About Bree Steele:

Bree Steele is an award-winning producer and presenter with over eight years of experience in podcasting, radio, and television. Previously a podcast producer for ABC, she now works as a freelance executive podcast producer and consultant.

Women’s Views on Quality of Life: India vs US

July 8, 2024, 4:22 pm

A recent post by Niharikaa Kaur Sodhi has sparked a big discussion about life in India versus the United States. She shared her thoughts online, comparing what she considered a good life in both countries.

In India, Sodhi used to think things like quick food delivery, fast grocery services, and affordable household help made life luxurious. But after spending time in the US, she realized that things like clean air, reliable electricity, access to water, lots of green spaces, and good roads were what really made life better there.

Day 11 today in the US ?? and here’s a thought I had yesterday evening. It might trigger some of you…

But if online text with somebody’s opinion triggers you that’s a space you should totally work on and protect for your own energy ?

So the thought is –

I’ve always felt how… pic.twitter.com/r0V1QXVadD

— Niharikaa Kaur Sodhi ? (@NiharikaSodhi) July 6, 2024

Her post got a lot of attention and people had different opinions. Some agreed with her, saying it’s important to have good infrastructure and a clean environment. Others said both countries have their own good and bad points. They mentioned that life in the US might have better infrastructure, but it can lack the strong community and family connections that are valued in India.

This debate shows that what makes a good life can depend on where you live and what you value. Economic stability, healthcare, education, and how connected people feel in their communities all affect how they see their quality of life.

Sodhi’s post encourages us to think about how our ideas of what makes life good can change over time. As societies change and grow, our priorities can also shift. It’s important to listen to different perspectives and understand that everyone’s experience is valid.

In the end, discussions like these help us learn from each other and think about how we can improve our lives, no matter where we live in the world. Each country has its strengths and challenges, and by understanding and respecting these differences, we can work towards creating better lives for ourselves and our communities, wherever we call home.

Glenn Maxwell Surpasses Kane Williamson As 10th-Highest T20I Run-Scorer

June 23, 2024, 6:02 pm

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell surpassed New Zealand’s Kane Williamson on Sunday to become the 10th-highest run-scorer in T20I cricket. Maxwell achieved this milestone during Australia’s ICC T20 World Cup Super Eights match against Afghanistan at Kingstown.

In a run chase of 149, Maxwell scored a commendable 59 runs off 41 balls, including six fours and three sixes, at a strike rate of 143.90. Despite his efforts, he lacked sufficient support from his teammates, leading to Australia’s defeat.

In the tournament, Maxwell has accumulated 112 runs in six matches, averaging 28.00 with a strike rate of 138.27, including one half-century. His overall T20I record now stands at 2,580 runs in 112 matches, averaging 30.00 with a strike rate of 154.67, featuring five centuries and 11 fifties, with a top score of 145*.

Kane Williamson, on the other hand, has scored 2,575 runs at an average of 33.44 and a strike rate of 123.08, with 18 half-centuries and a highest score of 95.

The leading run-scorers in T20I cricket are Pakistan’s Babar Azam (4,145 runs in 123 matches, averaging 41.03, with three centuries and 36 fifties, best score 122), Virat Kohli (4,103 runs in 122 matches, averaging 49.43, with a strike rate of 137.54, one century and 37 fifties, best score 122*), and India’s Rohit Sharma (4,073 runs in 156 matches, averaging 31.57, with a strike rate of 139.58, five centuries and 30 half-centuries).

In the match, Australia won the toss and chose to bowl first. An opening stand of 118 runs between Rahmanullah Gurbaz (60 off 49 balls) and Ibrahim Zadran (51 off 48 balls) gave Afghanistan a strong start. Tight bowling from Australia, including a hat trick by Pat Cummins (3/28) and a fine spell from Adam Zampa (2/28), restricted Afghanistan to 148/6 in 20 overs.

Australia’s chase faltered at 32/3 due to a fine spell by Naveen ul Haq (3/20). Maxwell’s valiant 59 couldn’t prevent Australia from being bowled out for 127 in 19.2 overs, marking their first-ever loss to Afghanistan in international cricket. Gulbadin Naib, with figures of 4/20, earned the ‘Player of the Match’ award for his crucial wickets, including those of Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, and Cummins.

Afghanistan now sits third in Group 1 with a win and a loss, while Australia is second with the same record. Both teams have two points each. If India wins their final Super Eights game against Australia on Monday and Afghanistan defeats Bangladesh by a significant margin, Australia, the current 50-over and Test champions, would be eliminated from the T20 World Cup.

Cracks In Bihar And Maharashtra BJP Alliances?

June 14, 2024, 11:36 am

Rifts and Cracks within Bihar’s and Maharashtra’s BJP Alliances can be seen soon after the Lok Sabha election results are out.

Cracks in Bihar

Internal rifts within Bihar’s ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) have surfaced following the 2024 Lok Sabha election results. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured victory in 12 out of 17 contested seats, while Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) also claimed 12 out of 16 seats. The other NDA allies, including LJP (RV) and HAM, clinched five and one seat respectively.

Tensions flared when former BJP MP Hari Manjhi accused Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who also serves as the state BJP president, of failing to rally votes from his own Kushwaha community in favor of NDA candidates. Manjhi questioned Choudhary’s leadership, claiming he couldn’t garner support despite an extensive campaign. This criticism reflects a shift as the INDIA bloc fielded Kushwaha candidates in key constituencies, altering traditional NDA dynamics.

Cracks in Maharashtra

Meanwhile, similar fractures have emerged in Maharashtra, where speculation abounds regarding the BJP potentially severing ties with Ajit Pawar’s NCP. Instead, there are talks of aligning with Chief Minister Ekanth Shinde’s Shiv Sena for the upcoming state assembly elections. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) triumphed with 30 out of Maharashtra’s 48 Lok Sabha seats in the recent elections, while Mahayuti, part of the NDA including Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, secured only 17 seats.

#WATCH | Mumbai: Maharashtra Minister and NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal says “We (NCP) were given only 4 seats out of the 48 seats for the Lok Sabha elections. Of those 4 seats, 2 were taken away from us. So, in these 2 seats, Raigad and Baramati and we won 1 seat. Now, how can… pic.twitter.com/SpBgwkbiKl

— ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2024

“How can someone say that we fought on 48 seats, we only got 2 seats. BJP lost in other states as well, such as Uttar Pradesh. Nobody thought that BJP would get so few seats in Uttar Pradesh. So, blaming Ajit Pawar faction is not right,” Maharashtra Minister and NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal said.

Kamran Akmal Apologizes For Offensive Joke On Arshdeep Singh And Sikh Religion

June 11, 2024, 4:36 pm

Kamran Akmal has issued an apology for a crude joke he made about Arshdeep Singh and the Sikh religion while analyzing the recent T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan in New York.

In a video circulating on social media, Akmal was seen making offensive remarks about Arshdeep’s religion, prompting a strong response from former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh.

“I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community,” Akmal posted on X.

I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to @harbhajan_singh and the Sikh community. My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry. #Respect #Apology

— Kamran Akmal (@KamiAkmal23) June 10, 2024

“My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry. #Respect #Apology,” Akmal wrote, tagging Harbhajan.

Akmal’s remarks came during the last over when Arshdeep Singh was bowling in Pakistan’s chase of 120. With Pakistan needing 17 runs to win in the final over, Arshdeep executed perfectly, securing a six-run win for India.

“Kuch bhi ho sakta hai… Dekhe last over karna Arshdeep Singh ne hai. Waise uska rhythm nahi laga. 12 baj gaye hai (Anything can happen. The last over will be bowled by Arshdeep Singh; he hasn’t looked in great rhythm. And it is already 12),” Akmal had said on ARY News.

In the video reposted by Harbhajan, Akmal was seen laughing with other panelists on the show. Harbhajan responded angrily to Akmal’s comments.

Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal.. You should know the history of sikhs before u open ur filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved ur mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock . Shame on you guys.. Have some Gratitude @KamiAkmal23 ??? https://t.co/5gim7hOb6f

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) June 10, 2024

“You should know the history of Sikhs before you open your filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved your mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock. Shame on you guys. Have some gratitude.”

Pakistan is set to face Canada in their do-or-die match on Tuesday.

Market Share Of Paytm Continues To Fall After RBI Crackdown

June 8, 2024, 8:54 pm

According to a report by Bloomberg, The market share of Paytm in India’s online payment sector has declined for the fourth consecutive month. This decline comes as the fintech company struggles to recover from the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) directive to its affiliate, Paytm Payments Bank, to cease operations. Data from the National Payments Corporation of India reveals that Paytm’s share of total UPI transactions dropped to 8.1% in May from 13% in January. Meanwhile, PhonePe maintains its position as the most popular payment app with a 49% market share, followed by Google Pay at 37%. Since the RBI’s order, Paytm’s shares have plummeted by approximately 55%.

The report also highlights that Paytm Payments Bank, despite being part of Paytm’s founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma’s fintech empire, is not directly controlled by Paytm. In response to the regulatory setback, Sharma has collaborated with leading Indian banks such as Axis Bank Ltd., HDFC Bank Ltd., and State Bank of India Ltd. to facilitate instant money transfers previously handled by Paytm Payments Bank.

Sharma acknowledged the near-term financial impact on Paytm’s revenue and profitability due to business disruptions in the last quarter. This statement was made in Paytm’s recent earnings filing, as reported by Bloomberg.

Deputy CM Fadnavis Slams Politicization of Pune Crash Response

May 22, 2024, 1:58 pm

Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis has defended Pune police actions in response to a recent Pune car crash case, asserting that all necessary measures were taken. CM Fadnavis criticized opposition attempts to politicize the incident.

He highlighted the police’s swift response and mentioned their appeal for a review before the Juvenile Justice Board. Devendra Fadnavis confirmed arrests of those serving alcohol to the underage driver and the father who provided the car, applauding the police for their thorough action.

CM Fadnavis criticized Rahul Gandhi for politicizing the issue, condemning his attempt to bring electoral politics into the matter. Gandhi had accused PM Modi of fostering a justice system dependent on wealth, citing discrepancies in treatment.

The incident involved a 17-year-old from a wealthy family driving a Porsche under alcohol influence, resulting in two deaths. Gandhi’s remarks drew attention to treatment disparities between affluent and less privileged individuals in similar cases.

The Pune case has sparked debate over justice system fairness and wealth influence on legal outcomes. As investigation continues, public scrutiny remains high, with calls for accountability and justice.

Pune’s Pub Crackdown: Bulldozers Raze Illegal Hangouts After Porsche Tragedy

May 22, 2024, 1:32 pm

In response to a Porsche Tragedy that claimed the lives of two young techies in the Kalyani Nagar area, the Pune district administration has launched a significant crackdown on illegal pune pubs operating within the city limits. TV reports revealed that authorities demolished two city pubs on Wednesday for flouting norms, signaling a robust enforcement of regulations.

The crackdown followed the administration’s decision to indefinitely close two pubs accused of serving alcohol to underage guests, including the 17-year-old driver involved in the fatal accident. District Collector Suhas Diwase promptly ordered the sealing of Cosie and Blak Marriott, both situated in Mundhwa, a day after the excise department filed charge sheets against them.

Excise officials disclosed that they had intensified inspections to identify other pune pubs guilty of similar violations. Special squads have been deployed to patrol areas where pubs operate late into the night, ensuring strict adherence to regulations.

The inspections uncovered numerous violations, including serving liquor to underage guests, failure to maintain proper records, and selling liquor without valid permits or outside licensed premises. The crackdown aims to curb such illegal practices and bolster safety measures within the city.

This proactive stance by the district administration underscores its commitment to enforcing regulations and ensuring public safety following the tragic car crash. As investigations progress, authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to hold those responsible for flouting the law accountable.

Could Israel Be Linked To Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s Helicopter Crash?

May 20, 2024, 12:45 pm

Ebrahim Raisi, the Iranian President renowned for his firm stance and strong allegiance to the nation’s supreme leader, has died at 63. Raisi was heavily involved in the mass executions of thousands in 1988 and later oversaw Iran’s efforts to enrich uranium to nearly weapons-grade levels. Additionally, he led Iran during a notable drone-and-missile attack on Israel.

The helicopter crash involving the Iranian President has led to speculation and a plethora of inquiries into the incident’s details. Iran is now facing the abrupt loss of its leader, causing uncertainty throughout the nation and potentially impacting the broader Middle East region. President Raisi’s death is expected to initiate a significant power struggle within Iran and could result in notable regional ramifications. With tensions and conflicts escalating, the absence of such a prominent political figure may unsettle the delicate power dynamics both domestically and internationally.

Potential Involvement of Israel

While the official explanation for the Iran President helicopter crash points to bad weather conditions, including rain and fog that impaired visibility, speculation has emerged regarding the possibility of foul play. Given Raisi’s controversial tenure and the myriad challenges facing Iran, questions have arisen about potential involvement by domestic foes or external actors such as Israel.

Historical animosity between Iran and Israel has led some Iranians to speculate that Israel might be behind the crash, according to a report in The Economist. This theory is fueled by recent escalations, including Israel’s assassination of an Iranian general in Damascus and Iran’s subsequent missile barrage. While the Mossad, Israel’s intelligence agency, is known for its operations against Iranian interests, it has never targeted a head of state.

Experts, however, find the theory of Israeli involvement in the Iran President helicopter crash unlikely. Assassinating a sitting president would constitute a direct act of war, likely provoking a severe response from Iran. Israel’s strategic focus has traditionally been on military and nuclear targets rather than high-profile political assassinations. “There are strong reasons to doubt Israel’s involvement. It has never gone so far as to assassinate a head of state, an unequivocal act of war that would invite a fierce Iranian response,” The Economist report stated.

Nevertheless, the timing of the helicopter crash exacerbates regional tensions. Iran’s network of proxies across Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen complicates the geopolitical landscape, particularly amidst the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Hamas. Any instability within Iran’s leadership could embolden these groups, potentially leading to broader conflict.

Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary Criticizes Lalu Prasad Yadav For Nepotism

May 19, 2024, 12:52 pm

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary launched a fierce attack on former Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, accusing him of nepotism and family appeasement within his party, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Chaudhary contrasted this with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which he claims operates on principles of equality and grassroots connection.

“The Bharatiya Janata Party is a party of the common people, where everyone, from the Prime Minister to an ordinary party worker, is treated equally,” Chaudhary stated. “We do not adhere to concepts of royalty or hierarchy. Each party worker connects directly with the people on the ground, and even Prime Minister Modi connects with the poor personally. How can we be unequal?”

Chaudhary criticized RJD’s reliance on caste politics and alleged that the party prioritizes familial power. “RJD has only 20 to 25 percent of the vote, and they think integrating casteism into politics will work for them. Even if they win the elections, Lalu Ji is not going to give power to anyone. He will only transfer it to his family. When RJD was in government, Tejashwi was the Deputy Chief Minister, and when in opposition, he was the Leader of the Opposition, with his mother often by his side. Lalu Ji can never give prominent positions to any outsider,” he said.

Taking a jab at Tejashwi Yadav, Chaudhary remarked, “Tejashwi might consider himself a prince because his parents were former Chief Ministers of Bihar. Lalu Yadav’s family lives only for their own interests.”

Chaudhary also criticized the Yadav family’s absence during Bihar’s tumultuous “Jungle Raj” era. “Lalu Ji’s kids were not even present in Bihar during the ‘Jungle Raj’ era. His daughter, Rohini Acharya, was in Singapore. Now that Bihar has been transformed and developed under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Prime Minister Modi, they have returned to contest elections. I appeal to the voters of Saran: defeat her this time, and if she remains committed even after losing, then consider supporting her in the future.”

Previously, Chaudhary accused the RJD of opposing reservation policies and the Constitution. He also questioned Tejashwi Yadav’s credentials in addressing crucial political issues.

Bihar’s Lok Sabha elections are being contested in all seven phases. With 40 Lok Sabha constituencies, the fourth highest among all States and Union Territories, Bihar plays a crucial role in shaping Indian politics.

The RJD, part of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) opposition coalition in Bihar, will contest 26 out of the state’s 40 Lok Sabha seats. As part of the NDA, the BJP and JD (U) will contest for 17 and 16 seats, respectively. The results of the Lok Sabha elections will be declared on June 4th.

Israel’s Chief Rabbis Urge Worshipers To Avoid Mount Meron For Lag B’Omer Due To War

May 18, 2024, 3:35 pm

Israel’s chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef and Rabbi David Lau, have instructed worshipers to refrain from travelling to the holy site on Mount Meron during the upcoming holiday of Lag B’Omer because of ongoing security concerns. Instead, they advised pilgrims to adhere to the instructions of security services.

Following a recent security assessment, the Israeli military’s Home Front Command cancelled this year’s traditional celebrations on Mount Meron. This decision is particularly significant given the recent Hezbollah rocket barrages targeting the area. The mountain, situated in the Upper Galilee, hosts a sensitive military air traffic control base that has been a focal point for Hezbollah attacks.

Mount Meron is also renowned as the burial site of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, a Second Century rabbinic leader and author of the Zohar, Judaism’s foundational book of kabbalah. The anniversary of Rabbi Shimon’s death, Lag B’Omer, is celebrated with bonfires and typically attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to his grave. This year, Lag B’Omer begins at sundown on May 25.

The call for caution comes in the wake of the 2021 tragedy at Mount Meron, where a stampede during Lag B’Omer celebrations resulted in 45 deaths and 150 injuries. The disaster, Israel’s worst civilian calamity, was attributed to overcrowded conditions and a faulty walkway in a narrow passage. A state commission of inquiry’s report released in March held Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally responsible for the incident.

Sunil Chhetri Hopes For All Can Go Happy In Last India Game on June 6

May 17, 2024, 7:50 pm

Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri, amidst a flurry of attention following his announcement of retirement after an illustrious 19-year career, emphasizes the need to shift focus to India’s upcoming crucial match against Kuwait. Chhetri, revered as one of India’s greatest-ever players, stresses the importance of prioritizing the national team’s preparations for the World Cup Qualifiers.

While acknowledging the overwhelming admiration and flood of messages he has received, Chhetri urges for a swift transition back to discussions centered around the team’s objectives. With a pivotal match on the horizon, he directs attention towards the collective goal of securing victory against Kuwait to advance India’s chances in the qualifiers.

Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Chhetri expresses gratitude for his accomplishments, including 94 international goals, highlighting his pride in representing the nation for 150 games. He credits his success to the unwavering support of his family and the exceptional care provided by the national team’s medical staff, particularly acknowledging the pivotal role of Gigy George.

Looking ahead to his final match in Kolkata, a city close to his heart, Chhetri extends a heartfelt message to fans, urging them to rally behind the team as they strive for success. While his retirement marks the end of an era, Chhetri looks forward to spending time with his family before embarking on a new chapter with Bengaluru FC in July.

SC Notices Plea Against Marital Rape Exception in Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita

May 17, 2024, 4:37 pm

The Supreme Court has stepped in to address a plea challenging the retention of the marital rape exception in the new criminal law, Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita. This exception has long been criticized for excluding non-consensual sexual intercourse within marriage from the definition of rape under certain circumstances.

In response to the petition, the Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Centre, indicating its intent to examine the legality and constitutionality of this provision. The notice serves as a formal call for the government’s response on the matter.

Odisha: 4 Labourers Killed In Separate Cave-In Accidents

May 16, 2024, 6:31 pm

Four labourers were killed in two separate incidents after soil at a construction site and stones at a quarry caved-in in Jajpur district of Odisha.

They were laying pipelines for a construction company late on Wednesday when a pile of earth collapsed in on them, killing them.

Locals saved the laborers, who were then hurried to the community health center in Binjharpur. They were later taken to Jajpur’s district hospital, where they were pronounced deceased.

A man was buried under a mound of stones on Wednesday night during quarrying operations at the Dankari stone quarry in the Dharmashala block of the same district.

When the accident occurred, an Andhra Pradeshi contractor was using excavators to help in stone quarrying. It is thought that two additional laborers are stuck beneath the stones.

MP High Court Raises Concerns Over Exploitation Of Women Remarrying Without Divorce

May 5, 2024, 4:20 pm

The Madhya Pradesh High Court recently expressed dismay over the exploitation of women who remarry without obtaining a divorce. The court highlighted the “legal loopholes” that hinder a woman who remarries without divorcing her previous husband from seeking maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). Justice Prem Narayan Singh, presiding over the high court bench, remarked that despite the provision’s aim to promote social justice, it falls short in preventing the exploitation it aims to address.

“This Court finds it unfortunate that many women, specially those belonging to the poorer strata of society, are routinely exploited in this manner, and that legal loopholes allow the offending parties to slip away unscathed and unquestioned,” the court stated.

Bipasha Basu Shares Adorable Clip Of Daughter Devi, Melts Fans’ Hearts

May 4, 2024, 2:37 pm

Bipasha Basu, relishing cherished moments with husband Karan Singh Grover and their delightful daughter, Devi Basu Singh Grover, shared a heartening video capturing their little one eagerly rushing into their arms for a warm embrace.

Bipasha shared a touching Instagram video featuring her daughter Devi joyfully running into her arms for a hug. With open arms, Bipasha eagerly awaited her daughter’s loving embrace.

The video captures Devi eagerly exclaiming “papa papa,” as she rushes towards Karan Singh Grover, who lovingly scoops her up with overflowing affection.

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A post shared by Bipasha Basu (@bipashabasu)

Bipasha captioned the post, “Doll.”

Following Bipasha’s video post, fans quickly filled the comments section with their heartfelt reactions.

One user wrote, “This has to be the cutest video on the internet today!”

Another user commented, “How adorable! Wholehearted love and happiness… watching makes my heart happy.”

“Devi is such a diva,” commented a third fan.

Earlier on Thursday, Bipasha delighted fans with a sneak peek into her pool day alongside her husband.

Sharing on Instagram, Bipasha posted a series of pictures showcasing herself and Karan. Their love story originated on the set of Bhushan Patel’s film ‘Alone’ in 2015, where they initially crossed paths. They subsequently embarked on a romantic journey and exchanged vows in April 2016, following a year of courtship.

Celebrating the arrival of their daughter, Devi Basu Singh Grover, born on November 12, 2022, Bipasha took to Instagram to share the delightful news. She expressed that Devi embodies their love and blessings, marking her entry into the world with joy and gratitude.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Karan Singh Grover’s latest venture was in Siddharth Anand’s forthcoming aerial action thriller film ‘Fighter,’ where he stars alongside Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone.

China Expected To Appoint New Ambassador To India, Ending 18-Month Vacancy

May 2, 2024, 11:44 pm

China is anticipated to appoint a new ambassador to India this month, ending an 18-month vacancy in the crucial post in New Delhi. Veteran diplomat Xu Feihong is reportedly the leading candidate for the appointment, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Since October 2022, the Chinese embassy has remained without an ambassador, marking the longest period without an envoy since 1976. This prolonged gap in ambassadorial postings reflects the strained relations between India and China due to the military standoff on the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

According to sources speaking on condition of anonymity, the new Chinese ambassador might assume the post before the conclusion of the Indian elections in early June. Two individuals stated that the appointment could occur as soon as mid-May.

The absence of any official statement from either the Chinese or Indian side regarding this matter has been noted. Experts have characterized the lack of a Chinese ambassador in New Delhi as a significant gap in communication channels, particularly during a period of strained bilateral relations.

Xu, approximately 60 years old, is a member of the Chinese Communist Party’s foreign ministry committee and serves as an assistant minister of foreign affairs. His previous diplomatic roles include serving as China’s ambassador to Afghanistan from 2011 to 2013 and to Romania from 2015 to 2019. He has also undertaken diplomatic assignments in Finland, South Korea, New Zealand, and the UK, though he is not considered experienced in Indian affairs.

The previous Chinese ambassador, Sun Weidong, concluded his term on October 26, 2022, and was appointed as one of China’s three vice foreign ministers. Despite President Xi Jinping appointing new envoys to Japan and the US since then, there has been no indication whether the ambassadorial post in India would be filled.

The Chinese leadership has consistently emphasized that the military standoff, which has strained bilateral relations to their lowest point since the 1962 border war, should be addressed within the broader context of the relationship. They urge both sides to focus on enhancing ties in areas such as trade and investment.

The Indian side has firmly rejected this stance, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar affirming that bilateral relations cannot return to normal until peace and tranquility are restored on the border. Jaishankar has also accused China of damaging relations by violating agreements and protocols for border management.

Last year, President Xi Jinping opted out of attending the G20 Summit hosted by India, instead sending Premier Li Qiang as China’s representative. It is widely believed that the lack of confirmation from the Chinese side about Xi’s participation in the SCO Summit in July 2023 was a significant factor leading to the meeting being conducted virtually.

The last time there was a gap of a year or more in the posting of a Chinese ambassador in India was in 1976. Between the border war of 1962 and the normalization of relations in 1976, the embassy was headed by either a chargé d’affaires or a first secretary (for a brief period in 1972). Following Sun Weidong’s departure, the embassy has been led by chargé d’affaires Ma Jia.

The position of the Chinese envoy in India, along with those in Japan, the US, and the UK, is highly sought after by Chinese diplomats, as the ambassador in New Delhi holds a status equivalent to that of a vice foreign minister. Both Sun Weidong and his predecessor in New Delhi, Luo Zhaohui, ascended to the rank of vice foreign ministers.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: “Important day for future of Thiruvananthapuram”: Rajeev Chandrasekhar

April 26, 2024, 10:37 am

Appealing to voters to participate actively in the second phase of Lok Sabha polls, Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized the significance of the day for the “future of Thiruvananthapuram,” noting the area’s limited progress over the last 15-20 years. Chandrasekhar, facing a tough challenge from former diplomat and senior Congress leader Tharoor in the constituency, urged people to vote, stating, “This is an important day, not just for democracy, but for the future of Thiruvananthapuram and the future of your own families and children. It is something that we all must take seriously. Voting is a fundamental duty of every citizen and I hope everybody comes out and votes for change.”

Chandrasekhar also visited the Padmanabhasamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram earlier in the morning.

The CPM-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) has nominated CPI leader Pannyan Raveendran from the constituency, who previously won the seat in 2005. Despite the BJP’s lack of historical success in winning Lok Sabha seats in Kerala, the party managed a victory in the Thiruvananthapuram district once, with O Rajagopal winning the Nemom assembly seat in 2016.

Voting commenced at 7 am on Friday in all 20 Lok Sabha constituencies in Kerala, along with 88 constituencies across 13 states and union territories for the second phase of the Lok Sabha polls 2024. The elections are being held in seven phases until June 1, with the votes set to be counted on June 4.