June 29, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper
Breaking News

Yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi to Star in Legal Drama Inspired by Landmark Shah Bano Case

Yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi are set to headline a powerful courtroom drama inspired by the historic 1985 Shah Bano vs Ahmed Khan case. The film, which marks the 40th anniversary of the landmark judgment, recently completed its shoot and is slated for a theatrical release in October or November 2025. The story draws from the real-life legal battle of Shah Bano, a Muslim woman who courageously challenged her husband — a lawyer himself — in a case that significantly shaped India’s constitutional and social fabric. It delves into Shah Bano’s relentless fight for justice and women’s rights in the face of financial hardship, societal pressure, and religious conservatism. Her case highlighted the tension between religion, individual rights, and gender justice, and became a cornerstone in the debate over Muslim personal law in India. Yami Gautam plays the central role, inspired by Shah Bano, while Emraan Hashmi portrays her husband, a character based on Ahmed Khan. The film underscores the social and legal impact of Shah Bano’s fight, which continues to influence jurisprudence and women’s rights movements across communities in India. Directed by Suparn S Verma, known for Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hain starring Manoj Bajpayee, the film has been shot across various locations in Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh. Backed by a compelling real-life narrative and powerful performances, the movie aims to bring one of India’s most significant legal battles back into public conversation — a story that still resonates in law schools and among rights advocates nationwide.

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Editor02 mins

Lokayukta Nabs Two Government Officials in Separate Bribery Cases in Madhya Pradesh

In a significant crackdown on corruption, the Lokayukta police on Tuesday caught two government officials red-handed while accepting bribes in separate incidents in Harda and Gwalior districts of Madhya Pradesh. In the first case, Atmaram Sanwre, the Chief Municipal Officer (CMO) of Khidkiya in Harda district, was arrested for accepting a bribe of ₹5,000. According to DG Lokayukta Yogesh Deeshmukh, the complainant Bhagwandas Sen had applied for house construction permission. However, Sanwre allegedly demanded a bribe to approve the house map and grant the required permissions. After SP DK Rathore verified the complaint, a trap team led by Inspector GS Marskole was constituted. The team successfully laid the trap at the CMO’s office, where Sanwre was caught red-handed while accepting the bribe amount. In a separate incident in Gwalior district, Dilip Nagar, a Revenue Inspector (RI) posted in Ghatigaon, was caught accepting a bribe of ₹30,000. The complainant Praveen Singh had purchased 42 bighas of land and had filed an application for its demarcation with the tehsildar’s office. Despite four official orders from the tehsildar, the RI allegedly delayed the process, demanding a bribe of ₹50,000, later negotiating it down to ₹35,000. Following a complaint to the Lokayukta police, a trap team led by Inspector Kavindra Singh Chauhan was formed. The RI had already received an advance of ₹5,000. On Tuesday, as soon as the remaining ₹30,000 was handed over at Nagar’s residence, the trap team arrested him on the spot. Both officials are facing legal proceedings under the Prevention of Corruption Act. These back-to-back actions highlight the Lokayukta’s ongoing efforts to curb corruption and bring transparency in administrative processes.

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Editor03 mins

Indian Army Foils Infiltration Bid in Baramulla Hours After Deadly Pahalgam Terror Attack

Just hours after Jammu and Kashmir witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent memory at Pahalgam, the Indian Army successfully foiled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control (LoC) in Baramulla district on Wednesday, April 23. At least two terrorists were neutralized during the encounter that ensued after they were intercepted by alert security forces. According to an official statement by the Indian Army, a group of approximately two to three unidentified terrorists attempted to infiltrate Indian territory through the Uri Nala area in the Sarjeevan sector of Baramulla. The troops deployed along the LoC immediately challenged them, leading to a firefight. The ongoing operation, named Operation Tikka, is still in progress. The army confirmed the developments via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, stating: “On 23 Apr 2025, approximately 2-3 UI terrorists tried to infiltrate through general area Sarjeevan at Uri Nala, Baramulla. The alert troops on LC challenged and intercepted them, resulting in a firefight. Operation is in progress.” This military action followed closely on the heels of a horrific terror attack that shook southern Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday. In that incident, at least 26 tourists, including two foreign nationals, were killed when terrorists linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) opened fire at the popular tourist destination of Baisaran valley. Several others were injured in the gruesome assault. Government sources have revealed that an estimated four to six terrorists are still believed to be hiding in the forested hills surrounding Pahalgam. A large-scale search operation is currently underway to track them down. In response to the escalating security situation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to New Delhi early Wednesday. Upon arrival, he held a high-level briefing at the airport with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to assess the evolving situation. Expressing grief and condemnation, the Prime Minister wrote on X: “I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.” Security across the Union Territory has been tightened, and vigil has been stepped up at sensitive points and tourist locations to prevent any further incidents.

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Editor04 mins

India’s Private Sector Growth Hits 8-Month High in April Amid Export Surge, But Business Confidence Softens

India’s private sector kicked off the new fiscal year on a high note, with growth in April reaching an eight-month peak driven by strong demand and a remarkable surge in foreign orders for manufactured goods. However, despite this robust start, business confidence showed signs of moderation, reflecting global uncertainties and trade tensions. According to the HSBC Flash India Composite Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), compiled by S&P Global, the index rose to 60.0 in April from 59.5 in March — the highest reading since August. A score above 50 indicates expansion, signaling healthy momentum in both manufacturing and services sectors. The manufacturing PMI climbed to 58.4 from 58.1, marking the strongest performance in a year. Meanwhile, the services PMI increased to 59.1 from 58.5, a four-month high, reflecting higher new business and improved output. A key factor behind the upbeat numbers was a sharp rise in new export orders, especially in manufacturing, which recorded its most substantial increase in over 15 years. This export boost is largely attributed to a 90-day pause in tariff implementations by US President Donald Trump, following his April 2 announcement of sweeping tariffs targeting multiple countries. “New export orders accelerated sharply, likely buoyed by the 90-day pause in the implementation of tariffs,” said Pranjul Bhandari, chief India economist at HSBC. She noted that India is increasingly positioning itself as a global manufacturing alternative to China, which remains affected by high US duties. The uptrend in foreign demand spurred not only output but also hiring. Employment rose across sectors, with manufacturers registering the highest job creation since the survey began in 2005. This hiring surge was in response to growing capacity pressures. Cost trends presented a mixed picture: input price inflation quickened in manufacturing but eased in services compared to March. Nonetheless, strong demand enabled firms to pass higher costs to customers, resulting in a more pronounced increase in selling prices, particularly in manufacturing. While the current data paints a picture of a strong economic rebound, analysts caution that softening business sentiment and external uncertainties — such as global trade policies — could pose challenges to sustaining this momentum in the months ahead.

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Editor03 mins

Valley Shuts Down in Unprecedented Protest Against Pahalgam Terror Attack

For the first time in 35 years, Kashmir valley observed a complete shutdown on Wednesday in a powerful and unified protest against the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. The bandh, which saw participation from all sections of society, was called to denounce the killing of innocent tourists at the popular Baisaran meadows in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The unprecedented call for a valley-wide shutdown was supported by a broad spectrum of political parties, religious bodies, trade associations, civil society groups, and educational institutions. Shops, fuel stations, and business establishments remained closed in Srinagar and other district headquarters. Only essential services operated, and public transport was minimal, though private vehicles continued to ply. Private schools across Jammu and Kashmir remained shut in response to the call by the Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK), while government schools remained open. Kashmir University also postponed all examinations scheduled for the day. Peaceful protests were held in various parts of the valley, with demonstrators urging an end to the violence and calling for justice for the victims. Slogans condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with the bereaved families were raised across protest sites. Major political parties, including the National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples’ Conference, and Apni Party, lent their support to the shutdown. Mutahida Majlis Ulema (MMU), a coalition of religious organizations led by Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, also called upon people to observe the shutdown as a mark of protest and solidarity. Trade and tourism bodies like the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries and the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation joined the bandh, highlighting the collective grief and outrage that transcended political and social boundaries. Security has been significantly tightened across the Kashmir valley in the wake of the attack. Additional forces have been deployed at vital installations, tourist locations, and city entry-exit points. Security personnel conducted extensive checks and frisking operations across districts, with a special focus on areas with tourist movement. A massive manhunt is currently underway in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, as security forces work to track down the four LeT terrorists responsible for the attack. The deployment of additional forces in Pahalgam underscores the seriousness of the ongoing security operation. The rare valley-wide shutdown marks a pivotal moment in the public’s response to terrorism in Kashmir, signaling both a deep sense of mourning and a resolute stand against violence.

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Editor04 mins

LeT Terror Attack in Pahalgam Targets Hindu Tourists, Claims 26 Lives

In a horrifying act of violence, four terrorists affiliated with the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) carried out a targeted attack on Hindu tourists in the popular Baisaran meadows area—commonly known as Maggi Point or Mini Switzerland—in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday. The attackers, armed with AK-47 rifles loaded with armor-piercing steel-tipped bullets and equipped with body cameras, selectively identified and shot Hindu men among the tourists, killing 26 people in a brutal 15-minute assault. Two of the assailants have been identified as local residents: Aadil Thakur from Bijbehara and Aasif Sheikh from Tral. The remaining two are believed to be Pakistani nationals of Pashtun origin. Despite The Resistance Front (TRF) claiming responsibility for the massacre, security officials confirmed that TRF is merely a façade for LeT, created to portray such operations as indigenous militant activity. Initial intelligence suggests that the terrorists had arrived in the area days prior, with their original target being a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Katra on April 19—a visit that was ultimately cancelled. Officials ruled out speculation that the attack was aimed at intelligence operatives, although one staff member from the Intelligence Bureau on holiday with his family was among the victims. Eyewitness accounts and security sources revealed that the attackers first questioned the tourists, separating the Hindu men based on names and other identifying markers. While some individuals tried to conceal their religious identities, the terrorists confirmed their suspicions before opening fire. Women and children were deliberately spared and moved aside. Shell casings recovered from the site indicate the use of AK-47s and armor-piercing rounds. Authorities believe the group may have included additional members acting as lookouts, as such teams typically operate in groups of up to six. Security forces have since launched an extensive manhunt, deploying special forces to track down the perpetrators. While intelligence agencies had previously issued alerts about terrorist movement in the area, the threat was reportedly dismissed as part of routine warnings issued ahead of high-profile events. Critics have questioned the lack of security presence in the area, especially given the heavy tourist footfall during the ongoing tourism season. Officials responded by saying that a security-heavy environment was deliberately avoided to maintain a perception of safety for visitors, as overt militarization could harm the region’s tourism-dependent economy. The attack has sparked national outrage and is being seen as a major security lapse. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in Saudi Arabia at the time, cut short his visit and returned to New Delhi, where he immediately reviewed the security situation at the technical area of the airport.

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Editor04 mins

Epic Action Sequence in Ramayan Featuring Kunal Kapoor and Yash

The highly anticipated epic adaptation of the Ramayan, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, continues to escalate in grandeur with new developments. Kunal Kapoor, who plays Lord Indra, is set to engage in a monumental action sequence opposite Yash, who portrays the mighty Raavan. This intense showdown marks a pivotal moment in Raavan’s quest for dominance after he gains near-immortality through penance. Key Highlights of the Battle: The Bigger Picture: Cast: Release and Expectations: The film, which is already in production, promises to be a visual spectacle with a strong narrative and intense performances from its cast. Fans can look forward to a larger-than-life adaptation with the battle between Lord Indra and Raavan shaping up to be one of its most thrilling sequences. This adaptation of Ramayan is already creating significant buzz and is expected to offer a fresh perspective on the classic epic, combining mythology with high-action cinematic appeal.

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Editor04 mins

Shahid Kapoor’s Farzi Season 2: Everything We Know So Far

Fans of Shahid Kapoor’s successful web series debut Farzi are in for a treat! After a phenomenal response to the first season in 2023, Farzi Season 2 is officially on the horizon, with the much-awaited sequel expected to release in late 2026. According to reports from Pinkvilla, the series’ creators, Raj and DK, are currently working on another project, Rakht Brahmand. Once that wraps up, they will shift their focus to Farzi 2. It is expected that pre-production for the sequel will begin soon, with filming set to start by December 2025. Shahid Kapoor, who played the lead role in the first season, will return for the next chapter of the gripping crime drama. The sequel promises a thrilling face-off, with Shahid Kapoor going head-to-head against two stellar actors: Vijay Sethupathi and Kay Kay Menon. This addition of powerhouse performers has raised the stakes for Farzi Season 2, further heightening the excitement among viewers. With the talented Raj and DK at the helm and a gripping storyline in the works, fans can expect Farzi Season 2 to be bigger, bolder, and packed with even more edge-of-the-seat moments. Keep an eye out for updates as filming progresses!

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Editor02 mins

Saif Ali Khan Buys Luxurious Property in Doha, Qatar

Actor Saif Ali Khan recently revealed that he has purchased a luxurious property at The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, located at The Pearl, Doha, Qatar. Speaking at a press event hosted by the Alfardan Group, Saif opened up about his reasons for choosing this prime location and shared his excitement about the property being the perfect retreat for his family. Saif praised Qatar’s safety, beauty, and its proximity to India, calling the country an ideal destination for his loved ones. He mentioned that his stay at the property felt “safe” and like “a home away from home.” Describing the qualities that drew him to the property, Saif explained, “When I think of a holiday home or a second home, accessibility is important, and the property is very easy to get to. But more importantly, it’s safe and gives a feeling of comfort. The concept of an island within an island is very luxurious and beautiful, making it a lovely place to live. It’s the views, the food, the lifestyle, and the peaceful pace of living that contributed to my decision.” Saif shared that during a work trip, while shooting in Doha, he stayed at the property and instantly fell in love with it. He highlighted the mixture of privacy and luxury, along with the carefully curated menu and overall vibe, which made it feel like “home away from home.” The secluded, peaceful environment sealed the deal for the actor. Looking forward, Saif is excited to take his family, particularly his children Taimur Ali Khan and Jehangir Ali Khan, to enjoy their new abode. Saif’s new property in Doha offers a serene getaway for his family, combining privacy, luxury, and tranquility, making it a perfect second home for the actor.

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Editor03 mins

Rani Mukerji’s Mardaani 3 to Release on February 27, 2026 – Ahead of Holi

The wait is over for fans of Bollywood’s fiercest on-screen cop! Yash Raj Films has officially announced that Mardaani 3, starring Rani Mukerji as Shivani Shivaji Roy, will hit theatres worldwide on February 27, 2026 — just days before the festival of Holi (March 4). The strategic release date celebrates the festival’s spirit of the triumph of good over evil, perfectly aligning with the film’s theme of justice versus brutality. 🔥 What We Know So Far: 🌟 The Franchise:

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Editor02 mins
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