June 29, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper
Breaking News

Akshay Kumar Returns in Powerful Courtroom Drama ‘Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh’

Akshay Kumar is back on the big screen with a compelling and emotionally charged historical drama, Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh, which hit theatres on April 18, 2025. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, this intense courtroom drama is a spiritual successor to his 2019 hit Kesari and focuses on one of the most pivotal legal battles in colonial Indian history. 🎬 Plot Overview: Set in the aftermath of the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the film tells the story of C. Sankaran Nair, a courageous lawyer portrayed by Akshay Kumar. Nair took a bold stand against the British Empire in court, aiming to expose the truth and seek justice for the victims of the brutal massacre. The film is based on the critically acclaimed book “The Case That Shook The Empire” by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat, who are the great-grandchildren of Sankaran Nair himself. 📈 Early Buzz & Box Office: 🔙 Flashback: Akshay’s First Kesari Released in March 2019, Kesari depicted the Battle of Saragarhi (1897), where 21 Sikh soldiers of the British Indian Army stood against 10,000 Afghan invaders. It earned: Directed by Anurag Singh, it was a blend of patriotism, valor, and sacrifice that resonated deeply with audiences. 📝 Final Take: With Kesari Chapter 2, Akshay Kumar continues to highlight unsung heroes of Indian history, this time in the courtroom rather than on the battlefield. The film not only serves as a gripping legal drama but also as a reminder of the price of justice under colonial rule. If you’re a fan of courtroom thrillers, history-based films, or Akshay’s patriotic avatars, this one promises to deliver on all fronts.

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Editor03 mins

No GST on UPI Transactions Over ₹2,000, Clarifies Finance Ministry

The Government of India on Friday, April 18, 2025, issued a strong clarification denying reports that it plans to impose Goods and Services Tax (GST) on UPI transactions above ₹2,000. In a statement, the Finance Ministry said the reports are “completely false, misleading, and without any basis.” It added, “Currently, there is no such proposal before the government.” No MDR, No GST The Ministry reiterated that GST is only levied on charges like the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applicable to certain payment instruments. However, since January 2020, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has removed the MDR on person-to-merchant (P2M) UPI transactions. “Since currently no MDR is charged on UPI transactions, there is consequently no GST applicable to these transactions,” the Ministry emphasized. UPI Growth and Government Incentives UPI usage has skyrocketed over the years. From ₹21.3 lakh crore in FY 2019-20, UPI transaction value reached ₹260.56 lakh crore by March 2025, showing the massive adoption of the digital payment mode. To support this surge, the government launched an incentive scheme from FY 2021-22, particularly to encourage low-value P2M UPI transactions and support small merchants. Under this scheme: These payouts underscore the government’s sustained effort to promote and support UPI-based digital transactions, the Ministry said, reaffirming that digital payments remain a top policy priority.

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Editor02 mins

Air India Air Hostess, 21, Dies in Tragic Car Crash in Bhopal; Friends Escape with Minor Injuries

A tragic accident in Bhopal claimed the life of a 21-year-old Air India air hostess, Harshita Sharma, late Thursday night after the car she was travelling in plunged into the Kolar canal. The incident was reported by police on Friday. According to authorities, Harshita was out for a drive with her two friends, Jai and Sujal, when the car suddenly veered off course near the Holy Cross School bridge in Kolar. Police said the vehicle lost control while trying to avoid a cow that unexpectedly appeared on the road. In the driver’s attempt to steer clear of the animal, the car skidded and fell into the canal. Police File Case of Negligent Driving Kolar police station in-charge Sanjay Soni confirmed that a case of negligent driving has been registered against Jai, who was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash. Harshita suffered serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby private hospital in critical condition. Doctors later declared her brain dead, and she passed away early Friday morning. Her friends, Jai and Sujal, sustained only minor injuries and are recovering. Family Devastated, Unaware of Her Presence in City In a heart-wrenching revelation, Harshita’s father, Pradeep Sharma, said the family was unaware that she had arrived in Bhopal. She had informed them on Wednesday night that she would be coming to celebrate his birthday on Friday, but they did not know she had already reached the city and was staying at a hotel. The family only learned of the incident after a friend, Shivani, called to inform them that Harshita had been admitted to the hospital. By the time they arrived, doctors had already pronounced her dead. Investigation Underway Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Further action will be taken based on the results of the post-mortem report, authorities said. The untimely death of Harshita Sharma has sent shockwaves through the community and aviation circles, where she was known to be a dedicated and cheerful cabin crew member.

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Editor03 mins

Half of US Visa Revocations Linked to Indian Students, Says AILA Amid Rising Deportation Concerns

The American Immigration Lawyers’ Association (AILA) has raised alarms over the increasing number of student visa revocations and terminations in the United States, revealing that nearly 50% of the 327 reported cases involve students from India. The data, compiled from attorneys, students, and university personnel, also showed that 14% of those affected were from China, with other impacted nationalities including South Korea, Nepal, and Bangladesh. In a statement cited by PTI, AILA emphasized the need for increased transparency and oversight in visa-related decisions. “There should be a way for students to appeal SEVIS terminations that are inaccurate, without facing gaps in employment or requiring university involvement, given the sheer number of students affected,” the association said, calling for more accountability in immigration enforcement. This revelation comes amid growing controversy over the treatment of international students in the US. According to a Reuters report, numerous students have now turned to the courts to block immigration officials from deporting them following abrupt visa cancellations. On a single day, judges in Massachusetts, Montana, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C., issued emergency injunctions against federal authorities, stopping them from taking action against students affected by what critics call arbitrary and unjustified revocations. One such case is that of Krish Isserdasani, a 21-year-old Indian student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was arrested in November for disorderly conduct after a verbal altercation but was not charged. Nonetheless, in April, he was informed that his SEVIS record had been terminated. A federal judge in Wisconsin ruled that the termination of his student status was likely unlawful, offering him temporary protection. Visa Crackdown Sparks Global Concerns The wave of visa revocations appears to be a part of the lingering effects of immigration policies introduced during the Trump administration. Despite legal pushback, hundreds of students are facing abrupt deportations, SEVIS database terminations, and a lack of recourse to appeal. Adding to the concern, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently confirmed that 682 Indian nationals have been deported from the US since January 2025, most for attempting to enter the country illegally. These developments have sparked outrage and political concern in India, with opposition leaders questioning the Ministry of External Affairs and demanding a clearer response to the plight of Indian students abroad.

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Editor04 mins

Indian Student Harsimrat Randhawa Killed by Stray Bullet in Hamilton, Canada

A tragic incident unfolded in Hamilton, Ontario, on Wednesday evening when 21-year-old Indian student Harsimrat Randhawa was fatally struck by a stray bullet while waiting at a bus stop. Randhawa, a student at Mohawk College, was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire of a shooting between two vehicles. The incident occurred around 7:30 PM local time near the intersection of Upper James Street and South Bend Road. According to Hamilton police, a passenger in a black sedan opened fire on the occupants of a white sedan. During the exchange of gunfire, one of the bullets hit Randhawa in the chest. Paramedics arrived swiftly and transported her to the hospital, but she sadly succumbed to her injuries. Police have confirmed that Randhawa had no connection to the individuals involved in the shooting. The senseless violence also impacted nearby homes. One residence on Allenby Avenue sustained damage when gunfire shattered a rear window while the residents were watching television. Fortunately, no one inside was harmed. The Hamilton Police Service has launched a homicide investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Investigators are asking anyone with dashcam or security camera footage taken between 7:15 PM and 7:45 PM in the vicinity of Upper James Street and South Bend Road to come forward with any relevant information. In response to the tragedy, the Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed deep sorrow. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), they stated, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Indian student Harsimrat Randhawa in Hamilton, Ontario. As per local police, she was an innocent victim, fatally struck by a stray bullet during a shooting incident involving two vehicles. A homicide investigation is currently underway. We are in close contact with her family and are extending all necessary assistance. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time.” This devastating incident has reignited discussions around public safety and gun violence in Canada.

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Editor03 mins

Four Dead, Several Trapped in Mustafabad Building Collapse; CM Orders Probe

In a tragic incident in northeast Delhi’s Mustafabad, a four-storey building collapsed in the early hours of Saturday, April 19, 2025, resulting in the death of at least four people. The collapse occurred around 3 am in Shakti Vihar, trapping approximately 22 people under the debris. Rescue teams managed to bring out 14 individuals, who were rushed to GTB Hospital, where doctors confirmed four of them as brought dead. Authorities believe that 8 to 10 people are still trapped under the rubble. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed deep sorrow over the incident and has ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. She confirmed that the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Fire Service (DFS), and other concerned agencies are actively involved in rescue and relief operations. “Arrangements have been made for proper treatment of all the injured,” the Chief Minister stated. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), CM Gupta wrote, “Deeply saddened by the tragic building collapse in Mustafabad. Orders have been given to investigate the incident and strict action will be taken against the culprits. My deepest condolences to those who died in the unfortunate accident. May God grant peace to the departed souls and give strength to the bereaved families to bear this irreparable loss.” Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal also expressed his condolences and urged party workers to assist in the ongoing relief efforts. “I appeal to all the party workers to fully cooperate with the administration in relief and rescue operations,” he said. Leader of Opposition Atishi echoed the sentiment and asked AAP volunteers in Mustafabad to provide their full support to authorities on the ground. Delhi Labour Minister Kapil Mishra, after visiting the collapse site, said that CM Gupta is directly monitoring the situation. He raised concerns about rampant illegal constructions in areas such as Mustafabad, Seelampur, Jafrabad, Seemapuri, Jamia, and Old Delhi. “The Municipal Commissioner has been instructed to vacate nearby unsafe buildings. No officer responsible for the building collapse will be spared,” Mishra added. Police teams and rescue agencies continue to work at the site, while an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the collapse.

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Editor04 mins

BluSmart Halts Services Amid SEBI Crackdown on Founders, Plans Fleet Transition to Uber

BluSmart, the fast-growing electric cab service, has abruptly suspended its operations in major Indian cities including Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai. This sudden halt in services has left thousands of commuters stranded and confused. The disruption follows a Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) order against the company’s promoters, who have been accused of financial misconduct. According to reports, BluSmart may soon exit its core ride-hailing business and instead operate as a fleet partner for Uber. As per The Economic Times, shareholders have approved a plan to begin transferring BluSmart’s fleet to Uber over the next few weeks, signaling a significant pivot in the company’s operations. The crisis unfolded after SEBI issued an interim order against Anmol Singh Jaggi and Puneet Singh Jaggi—the co-founders of Gensol Engineering, a company closely linked to BluSmart. Both brothers have resigned from their roles after the market regulator accused them of misappropriating funds and treating Gensol like a “piggy bank”. BluSmart, launched in 2018 as Gensol Mobility Pvt. and later rebranded, was founded by Anmol Jaggi along with Punit Goyal. The company quickly rose to prominence as India’s first and largest all-electric, zero-emission ride-hailing service. As of January 2025, it boasted a fleet of over 8,500 electric vehicles, a network of 5,800 charging stations across 50 hubs in Delhi NCR and Bengaluru, and a base of over 10,000 driver partners. It had completed over 1.45 crore rides and had recently ventured into international markets by launching a premium EV limousine service in the UAE. The root of BluSmart’s operational shutdown lies in its financial ties with Gensol Engineering Limited (GEL), also promoted by the Jaggi brothers. SEBI’s investigation revealed that Gensol borrowed ₹978 crore from public financial institutions like the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) and the Power Finance Corporation (PFC) between 2021 and 2024. Of this, ₹664 crore was earmarked for the purchase of 6,400 electric vehicles to be leased to BluSmart. However, only 4,704 EVs were reportedly procured, leaving ₹262.13 crore unaccounted for. The SEBI probe revealed alarming financial irregularities, including luxury purchases and personal expenditures made using diverted funds. One major transaction involved a payment of ₹42.94 crore for an upscale apartment in the DLF Camellias project in Gurugram. Other questionable expenses included a ₹26 lakh golf set, personal travel and leisure, credit card bill payments, and fund transfers to close relatives. As BluSmart prepares to reposition itself in the mobility space through a partnership with Uber, the scandal has raised broader concerns about corporate governance and transparency in India’s rapidly growing EV and startup ecosystem.

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Editor04 mins

Putin Meets Freed Russian Hostages, Credits Russia’s Relations with Palestinians for Their Release

On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Russian nationals who were recently freed after being held hostage by the militant group Hamas during the October 2023 attacks on Israel. Putin attributed their release to Moscow’s long-standing and stable ties with Palestinian groups, including Hamas. During the meeting at the Kremlin, Putin expressed gratitude to Hamas for their role in facilitating the release, calling it a humanitarian gesture. “The fact that you are now free is a result of Russia’s many years of stable relations with the Palestinian people,” Putin said, referring to former hostage Alexander Trufanov and his family members. Trufanov, who was freed after nearly 500 days in captivity as part of ceasefire negotiations, thanked Putin for his efforts in securing his release. He also voiced hope for the freedom of all remaining hostages, whom he described as “like brothers.” Trufanov’s father was killed in the attacks, but his mother, fiancée, and grandmother were among those released in late 2023. Putin reassured the hostages and their families that Russia would continue to work to ensure the release of other captives. Russia has maintained a policy of fostering positive relations with both Israel and Palestinian factions, advocating for a two-state solution as the foundation for peace in the Middle East.

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Editor02 mins

Sunny Deol’s Jaat Gets a Sequel: Jaat 2 Announced After Box Office Success

After the resounding success of Jaat, which has grossed over ₹70 crores globally in its first week, a sequel titled Jaat 2 has been officially confirmed. Both actor Sunny Deol and director Gopichand Mallineni will return for their respective roles in the follow-up. The movie will be co-produced by Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory. Jaat has made a significant impact at the box office, quickly heading towards the ₹100 crore mark. This marks Deol’s first release since the mega-blockbuster Gadar 2 in 2023, further cementing his status as a major box office draw. The action-packed drama is also the first collaboration between Sunny Deol and Gopichand Mallineni, who made his Bollywood debut with the film. Randeep Hooda plays the antagonist in Jaat, while Regina Cassandra, Saiyami Kher, and Vineet Kumar Singh feature in key roles. With its success, Jaat 2 promises to take the action and drama to the next level, with Mythri Movie Makers teasing a “bigger, bolder, and wilder” mission for the character this time around. No further details have been revealed about the sequel yet, but the announcement has certainly sparked excitement among fans eager for more from the Jaat universe.

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Editor02 mins

Shine Tom Chacko Flees Hotel During Police Search Amid Drug Allegations

In a dramatic, movie-like escape, Malayalam actor Shine Tom Chacko fled from a plush hotel on the third floor when a police team arrived to investigate a tip-off regarding his possible involvement in drug use. The incident unfolded close to midnight, when Chacko managed to escape through a window, leaping onto the second floor, before taking the staircase to flee the scene, leaving the policemen stunned. Following the escape, the police and excise officials have launched a manhunt for Chacko, but so far, the actor has managed to remain elusive. This comes on the heels of multiple controversies surrounding Chacko’s name in recent months. Vincy Aloshious Names Chacko Amid Allegations of Misconduct The trouble began earlier in the week when Malayalam actress Vincy Aloshious publicly identified Shine Tom Chacko as the actor she had previously accused of mistreatment during the shooting of the film Soothravakyam. Aloshious had originally refrained from naming the actor but later revealed to the media that Chacko was the individual who had misbehaved with her, citing an incident where he was seen spitting with white powder coming out. In a statement, Aloshious said she had made a formal complaint to the film authorities but had not intended to escalate the matter to the police. However, after the name of the actor was revealed publicly by Saji Nandiyattu, the General Secretary of the Film Chamber, Aloshious expressed her refusal to cooperate with the organization, citing the breach of confidentiality. Chacko’s Legal Troubles and Drug Allegations Chacko’s legal troubles deepened when a drug peddler implicated him as a client earlier this month. In response, the excise department confirmed it would take action against Chacko, as well as another actor, Srinath Bhasi. This fresh controversy, combined with his recent flight from the hotel, has added to the growing tension surrounding Chacko’s career and public image. As investigations continue, the authorities are focused on Chacko’s potential involvement in drug-related activities, and his escape only adds fuel to the ongoing manhunt and legal scrutiny.

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