THE CLIFF NEWS

Patna, Bihar – Former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav responded sharply to Nishant Kumar’s appeal for the public to re-elect his father, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, stating that JD(U) allies themselves had previously raised concerns about his health. Tejashwi remarked, “Nishant Kumar should worry about the past comments of JD(U)’s allies on his father’s health.” He further pointed out that prominent NDA leaders, including BJP’s Samrat Chaudhary, Vijay Sinha, and Chirag Paswan, had in the past questioned Nitish Kumar’s mental and physical fitness. “Chirag Paswan used to say that he is not mentally stable, and Manjhi ji (Jitan Ram Manjhi) used to say that he is not healthy,” Tejashwi added. Bihar Elections 2025: The Battle Lines Are Drawn This exchange comes ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for November 2025, where the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will face off against the opposition Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance). While Nitish Kumar is set to lead the NDA into the polls, Tejashwi Yadav’s elevation as the de facto chief of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has all but confirmed his candidacy as the Grand Alliance’s chief ministerial face. The political landscape in Bihar has been volatile in recent years. The NDA narrowly defeated the Mahagathbandhan in the 2020 elections. However, Nitish Kumar switched sides in August 2022, joining the Grand Alliance, only to return to the NDA in January 2024. Despite his frequent political shifts, Nitish Kumar has retained his position as Chief Minister, a testament to his strategic maneuvering in Bihar politics. As the election nears, the focus will be on how these alliances and rivalries shape the state’s future leadership.

In an effort to de-escalate tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu, the Indian and Pakistani armies held a brigade commander-level flag meeting on Friday, February 21, 2025, in the Pir Panjal valley’s Poonch district. The meeting, which took place between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m. at the Chakkan-Da-Bagh crossing point, lasted for over an hour. However, no joint statement was issued, and the measures discussed were not disclosed. According to officials, the primary agenda was to push for peace along the LoC and reinforce adherence to the ceasefire agreements signed in 2003 and 2020. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the dialogue, stating that any effort to reduce tensions was a positive step. The meeting followed two fresh incidents of explosions and firing along the LoC in Poonch over the past 24 hours. An explosion was reported near the LoC on Friday morning, though security officials have yet to confirm its cause. Despite a largely intact ceasefire since 2020, this year has seen multiple accusations from both sides regarding violations. On February 16, the Indian Army accused Pakistan of “small arms firing” at an Indian post, while Pakistan claimed two of its soldiers were injured in an “unprovoked ceasefire violation” by Indian troops in the Deva and Bagsar sectors on February 12. Beyond cross-border firing, the Jammu region has witnessed over six skirmishes in the past two months, particularly in Jammu, Rajouri, and Poonch districts. These incidents included sniper attacks, in which two Indian soldiers—including a Captain—were killed by an improvised explosive device (IED), while two others were struck by sniper fire. Security officials remain uncertain whether these attacks were executed by the Pakistani Army or militants. Additionally, two infiltrators were killed in Poonch during this period. The situation along the LoC remains tense, with both nations closely monitoring developments.

Love Doesn’t Come with an Expiration DateThe beloved 2016 romantic drama Sanam Teri Kasam has achieved an extraordinary milestone, becoming the first-ever re-released film to surpass ₹50 crore at the box office. Initially having a modest theatrical run, the film has now made an incredible comeback, proving that true love and audience devotion never truly fade. A Remarkable Box Office ResurgenceStarring Harshvardhan Rane and Mawra Hocane, the emotional saga has now outperformed Tumbbad, which previously held the record for the highest earnings among re-released films. While the Sohum Shah-led Tumbbad had amassed ₹32 crore in India, Sanam Teri Kasam continues to draw crowds, edging closer to the ₹53 crore mark and maintaining its strong momentum. Box Office Storm: Re-Release SuccessAccording to industry tracker Sacnilk, Sanam Teri Kasam has taken the box office by storm in its second theatrical run, collecting over ₹32 crore net within just 16 days. This unexpected resurgence has also pushed its global revenue beyond ₹50 crore, combining both its initial and re-release earnings. The Film’s Initial JourneyWhen Sanam Teri Kasam first premiered in 2016, it may not have shattered records, but it left a lasting impression. The film garnered ₹9.11 crore in India and ₹16.03 crore worldwide—an impressive feat given its modest ₹5 crore production budget. While it didn’t enter the elite ₹50 crore or ₹100 crore club back then, its deeply moving storyline and mesmerizing soundtrack gradually helped it cultivate a devoted fan following. A Second Chance to ShineNo one anticipated that a re-release of Sanam Teri Kasam would create such a historic moment at the box office, but here we are, witnessing it rewrite history! At its heart, Sanam Teri Kasam is a deeply emotional love story between Inder, a rebellious ex-convict, and Saru, a conservative librarian, whose romance takes a tragic turn. With breathtaking visuals captured by cinematographer Chirantan Das and a soul-stirring soundtrack composed by Himesh Reshammiya, the film resonated with audiences despite its initial commercial struggles. Originally released on February 5, 2016, under Eros International, the film received mixed reviews and didn’t perform exceptionally well. However, its re-release on February 7, 2025, changed everything, turning it into an unexpected blockbuster. This success proves that some films just need a second chance to truly shine!

Jammu, Feb 24 – A bus carrying pilgrims from Mata Vaishno Devi shrine met with a tragic accident near Manda, around 8 km from the Jammu bus stand, on Saturday evening. The vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a 30-foot-deep gorge, killing the driver and injuring 17 passengers, officials said. Rescue Operation and Casualties CM Omar Abdullah Expresses Grief Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended condolences to the driver’s family and wished the injured a speedy recovery. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident while ensuring medical aid for the injured.

Kathmandu / Odisha – Days after the alleged suicide of Prakriti Lamsal, a 20-year-old Nepalese B.Tech student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Odisha, tensions have escalated, leading to the return of 159 Nepali students via the Raxaul border, an official confirmed. Students Allege Mistreatment Speaking at a press conference in Kathmandu, the returning students claimed they faced “inhuman treatment” at KIIT following Lamsal’s death. The students have demanded a thorough investigation into Lamsal’s death and justice for those who faced alleged harassment. Nepal Government Intervenes Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba addressed the issue upon her return from Oman, stating that the Nepal government resolved the matter diplomatically. Following diplomatic efforts, KIIT apologized for the incident and took action against staff members who allegedly mistreated Nepalese students. Protests in Nepal for Justice The incident has sparked protests in Nepal: With ongoing investigations, authorities in Odisha and Nepal continue to monitor the situation, ensuring a fair probe and the well-being of affected students.

Nagarkurnool, Telangana – Three teams of engineers and rescuers have assessed the structural strength of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel, where eight workers remain trapped following a collapse. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire Services Department, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) conducted inspections overnight on Saturday and Sunday to determine if the tunnel was stable enough for a rescue operation. Superintendent of Police, Nagarkurnool, Vaibhav Gaikwad, confirmed the assessment, stating, “Three teams of the state and national disaster response contingents have assessed the tunnel to check if it is strong enough to let rescuers travel a distance.” Additionally, engineers and miners from Singareni Collieries have joined efforts to evaluate the situation. Rescue Efforts Face Challenges Due to Debris and Water On Saturday night, rescue teams reached the site of the collapse inside the tunnel and attempted to communicate with the trapped workers but received no response. Gaikwad explained, “There is a huge barrier of debris and mud at the spot, and nothing is visible beyond that. The rescue personnel called out to the trapped persons but there was no response. They may be trapped much deeper inside.” Dewatering and debris removal began on Saturday night and is ongoing. Experts on-site have emphasized that the tunnel contains water that must be drained before any rescue attempt. Construction firm Jaiprakash Associates, whose workers are among those trapped, has started pumping out the water. A senior expert noted that desilting would also be required, as debris is obstructing movement within the tunnel. The trapped workers include two Indian engineers from American tunneling firm The Robbins Company, while the remaining six are employees of Jaiprakash Associates Ltd. Authorities Explore Multiple Rescue Options Telangana Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy stated that the last 200 meters of the tunnel are filled with slush, making direct access difficult. He outlined three potential rescue approaches: Political Response and Nationwide Concern The collapse occurred on Saturday morning when a section of the tunnel roof gave way. That evening, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the crisis. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his distress over the incident in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The trapped workers have been identified as: Officials have confirmed that the tunnel’s ventilation system remains operational, ensuring a steady oxygen supply to the workers. The Telangana government is also reaching out to experienced tunnel rescue experts, including those involved in last year’s Uttarakhand Silkyara tunnel rescue operation. Teams Navigate Deep Into the Tunnel Several rescue teams, including personnel from the NDRF, SDRF, Telangana Fire and Disaster Response, Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), and Nagarkurnool police, entered the tunnel at around 10 pm on Saturday to assess conditions and strategize a rescue. The team traveled 11 km on a tunnel locomotive and another 2 km on a conveyor belt, reaching the collapse site 13 km inside. The collapse has created a debris barrier up to eight meters high, spanning approximately 200 meters, behind which the workers are trapped. Beyond the 11 km mark, the tunnel is also filled with water, which is currently being pumped out before full-scale debris removal can begin. Authorities are racing against time to rescue the trapped workers as efforts continue around the clock. 4o

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has alleged that the Biden administration allocated $18 million in funding to India to assist with its elections. During his speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Saturday (February 22, 2025), he questioned why the United States was providing financial assistance to India for its electoral process, arguing that the country does not require such aid. Criticism of USAID and Election Funding Trump strongly criticized the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for allocating funds to India, claiming that the agency provided $21 million for “voter turnout.” He further accused India of taking advantage of the U.S., citing high tariffs imposed by India on American goods. “Eighteen million dollars for helping India with its elections. Why the hell? Why don’t we just go to old paper ballots, and let them help us with their elections, right? Voter ID. Wouldn’t that be nice? We’re giving money to India for elections. They don’t need money,” he said. Tariff Dispute and Financial Assistance Trump also pointed out that India is one of the highest tariff-imposing nations in the world, criticizing the U.S. for providing financial aid despite India’s high import duties. “They take advantage of us pretty good. One of the highest tariff nations in the world… We have a 200 percent [tariffs] there, and then we’re giving them a lot of money to help them with their election,” he remarked. Funding to Bangladesh Also Questioned In addition to India, Trump targeted USAID for allocating $29 million to Bangladesh, claiming that the funds were used to “strengthen the political landscape” in the country. Without naming any specific individual, he alleged that the money was meant to support a “radical left communist” candidate. Jaishankar Calls for Investigation into USAID’s Activities Reacting to the claims, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on Saturday (Feb. 22) that the information released by the Trump administration was “concerning” and that the Indian government was looking into the matter. During an event in New Delhi, Jaishankar noted that USAID was allowed to operate in India “in good faith, to do good faith activities,” but the allegations suggested that “there are activities which are in bad faith.” He stressed that if there was any truth to the claims, the Indian public deserved to know who was involved. Congress Calls on Modi to Respond The Congress party also weighed in on the controversy, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address Trump’s allegations and “talk to his friend” to refute the claims. Trump’s Previous Allegations and DOGE’s Report The latest remarks come after Trump raised similar concerns on February 19 and 20. At a Republican Governors Association meeting on February 20, he alleged that the $21 million allocated to India was a “kickback” scheme orchestrated under the Biden administration. Trump’s claims were further backed by his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, which on February 16 reported that USAID contributed $21 million to the Election Commission of India to boost voter turnout. DOGE also stated that all such expenditures had been canceled.

Tesla is preparing to enter the Indian market, but even with the government reducing import duties to below 20%, the starting price for its most affordable model, the Model 3, is expected to be between ₹35 lakh and ₹40 lakh, according to a report from global capital markets firm CLSA. Pricing Challenges for Tesla in India CLSA warns that Tesla’s impact on the Indian EV market may be limited if its pricing remains 20-50% higher than these domestic competitors. Tesla’s Strategy & Market Entry Market Sensitivity & Future Prospects Despite Tesla’s strong global brand, affordability remains a key challenge in India. Without significant investments in local manufacturing, Tesla’s vehicles may remain out of reach for most Indian consumers, limiting its market impact.

Farah Khan has landed in controversy after Hindustani Bhau (Vikash Fhatak) filed a criminal complaint against her at Khar Police Station for allegedly making offensive remarks about Holi on Celebrity MasterChef (February 20 episode). Complaint Details 📌 Allegation: Farah called Holi “a festival for the Chhapris”📌 Complaint filed by: Hindustani Bhau via Advocate Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh📌 Legal action requested under: IPC Sections 196, 299, 302, and 353📌 Complaint states: The comment insulted Hindu religious sentiments and could cause communal tension Backlash & Social Media Reaction 📢 The term “Chhapri” is considered derogatory and casteist, leading to massive online outrage.📢 Farah Khan is facing severe criticism and trolling on social media. What’s Next? 🚨 Legal proceedings may follow if police decide to act on the FIR.🔥 This controversy adds to the list of Bollywood celebrities facing backlash over religious remarks. Would you like real-time updates on this case? 🚨

Kochi: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on Friday announced a massive ₹3 lakh crore infrastructure development project for Kerala, with a primary focus on road expansion and modernization. Participating online in the Invest Kerala Global Summit, Gadkari revealed that ₹50,000 crore worth of road development projects would be implemented soon. A total of 31 new projects covering 896 km have been planned to enhance connectivity across the state. Key Announcements Kozhikode-Palakkad National Highway 966 to be Four-Laned Ernakulam Bypass on NH-544 to be Six-Laned Thiruvananthapuram Outer Ring Road New Road Project in Kollam District Boost for Kerala’s Tourism & Infrastructure Gadkari emphasized that Kerala’s globally renowned tourism sector, including Ayurveda, attracts numerous domestic and international visitors. He stressed the urgent need for superior infrastructure, particularly well-developed roads, to enhance accessibility and promote tourism. The Union Minister assured the central government’s full support in creating world-class infrastructure for Kerala.