BJP Demands Apology from Sonia Gandhi Over Waqf Bill Remarks

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded an apology from Congress leader Sonia Gandhi over her critical remarks on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Mrs. Gandhi termed the Bill a “brazen assault” on the Constitution and accused the BJP of perpetuating “permanent polarisation” in society. Lok Sabha Passes Waqf Bill Amid Controversy The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill late on Thursday after a heated 12-hour debate. While Opposition members proposed amendments, they were rejected by voice vote. The Bill was approved with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The Rajya Sabha also witnessed intense discussions before passing the Bill with a final count of 128 votes in favor and 95 against. The Opposition labeled the Bill “anti-Muslim” and “unconstitutional,” while the government defended it as a “historic reform” aimed at benefiting the minority community. Sonia Gandhi Criticizes the Government’s Actions Speaking at a Congress Parliamentary Party meeting in Samvidhan Sadan, Mrs. Gandhi alleged that the Bill was “bulldozed” through the Lok Sabha. She also criticized the proposed One Nation, One Election Bill, calling it a subversion of the Constitution. “Whether it is education, civil rights and liberties, our federal structure, or the conduct of elections, the Modi government is dragging the country into an abyss where our Constitution will remain on paper,” she said. She further accused the government of attempting to turn India into a “surveillance state.” She also accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of repackaging Congress-era initiatives as his own and called for a strong public outreach campaign to counter the BJP’s claims. BJP MPs Protest, Demand Apology Following her remarks, BJP MPs, led by Nishikant Dubey, protested in the Lok Sabha, demanding an apology from Sonia Gandhi. They alleged that she had insulted the Constitution by accusing the BJP of “taking the country down the drain.” The protests led to the adjournment of the Lok Sabha on Friday morning, with BJP members chanting “Sonia Gandhi maafi maango” (Sonia Gandhi, apologise). Opposition members countered by demanding government responses on US tariff impositions. Congress Plans to Challenge Bill in Supreme Court In response, the Congress has announced its intent to challenge the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Supreme Court. Party leader Jairam Ramesh stated on X that the Congress would “very soon” file a petition, expressing confidence in resisting what it sees as an attack on constitutional principles by the Modi government.

Power Supply to Be Disrupted in Kamla Nagar, Nehru Nagar, and Other Areas In Bhopal On April 4

Residents in several areas of Bhopal will experience power outages on April 4, 2025, due to scheduled maintenance work. The disruptions will occur at different times in various locations. Here are the details: Residents in these areas are advised to prepare for temporary power cuts during the specified hours. It is recommended to charge essential devices and adjust plans accordingly.

Director Sanoj Mishra Arrested on R*pe Charges in Delhi

Filmmaker Sanoj Mishra was arrested by the Delhi Police on Sunday on charges of rape following a complaint filed by a 28-year-old woman. Mishra, known for previously offering a movie role to viral Mahakumbh girl ‘Monalisa’, was taken into custody after intelligence gathering and technical surveillance. The case was registered at Nabi Karim police station in Central Delhi on March 6. The complainant accused Mishra of rape, assault, causing miscarriage, and issuing threats. According to the FIR, the woman had been in a live-in relationship with Mishra in Mumbai for the past four years. She alleged that he coerced her into undergoing abortion thrice during this period. The complainant stated that on February 18, Mishra took her to a hotel in Nabi Karim and established physical relations with her under the pretense of marriage. However, he later backed out of his promise to marry her, prompting the woman to file a police complaint. Harsha Vardhan, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central), said, “During the investigation, medical documents related to the abortions were obtained from Muzaffarnagar. The Delhi High Court has rejected Mishra’s bail application.” The police further revealed that Mishra is married and resides with his family in Mumbai. The arrest followed a thorough investigation based on the woman’s complaint and corroborative evidence. This incident has sparked widespread attention due to the filmmaker’s connection with the viral Mahakumbh girl and the severity of the allegations. Further proceedings and legal actions will be determined as the case unfolds.

Massive Decline in Govt School Enrolment Despite Increased Budget in Madhya Pradesh: Jitu Patwari

Madhya Pradesh has witnessed a significant decline in student enrolment in government schools between 2016-17 and 2023-24, despite a substantial increase in the school education budget. Congress state unit chief Jitu Patwari recently raised this alarming issue, pointing out that the number of students enrolled in government schools has dropped by a staggering 12,23,384 over this period. Expressing his concerns, Patwari highlighted that the sharpest decline was observed at the primary and middle school levels. Primary classes saw a reduction of 6,35,434 students, while middle classes lost 4,83,171 students. The enrolment in high and higher secondary classes also dipped by 1,04,479 students. This drastic decline comes at a time when the state government is making lofty claims of elevating the education system to global standards. Adding to the paradox, Patwari noted that the school education budget witnessed an 80 percent rise during the same period. In 2016-17, the budget was Rs 16,226.08 crore, which surged to Rs 29,468.03 crore in 2023-24. This substantial increase aimed to enhance the quality of education and infrastructure in government schools. Despite the financial boost, the enrolment numbers tell a different story, raising questions about the effectiveness of budget utilization. The average expenditure per student has also witnessed a sharp rise. In 2016-17, the government spent Rs 16,672 per student, which increased to Rs 34,631 in 2023-24. The state also invested heavily in providing free books to students from classes 1 to 8, costing Rs 317.48 crore. Additionally, the midday meal scheme, which benefited 264.43 crore children during this period, cost the state exchequer Rs 8,038.92 crore. Criticizing the government’s approach, Patwari stated that while bureaucrats have been undertaking foreign tours to study advanced education models, such as the South Korean model, the ground reality remains grim. He emphasized that instead of indulging in “fake publicity,” the state needed to focus on delivering tangible results and ensuring quality education in government schools. Addressing Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on the social media platform ‘X’, Patwari stressed the importance of public funds being utilized for the greater good. He remarked that Madhya Pradesh, which is increasingly sinking into a debt trap, urgently needs practical and effective measures to revitalize its education sector rather than superficial promotional strategies.

PM Modi Hails RSS for Century-Long Service and National Development

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, lauded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its immense contributions to India’s progress, highlighting its century-long journey and unwavering commitment to national service. Speaking at the foundation laying ceremony of Madhav Netralaya’s new premises in Hingna, Nagpur, the Prime Minister delivered a speech devoid of political rhetoric, focusing solely on RSS’s legacy and societal impact. Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat stood by his side, reinforcing the significance of the moment. RSS Values Drive India’s Humanitarian Leadership During his address, PM Modi underscored India’s leadership in humanitarian aid, attributing the country’s proactive stance in global crises to RSS values. Citing the recent dispatch of relief to Myanmar following Friday’s earthquake, named Operation Brahma, he praised India’s swift response to international emergencies. He also recalled similar aid extended to Turkey, Nepal, and the Maldives in the past. “Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, India supplied vaccines to the world, treating humanity as one family,” Modi remarked. Earlier in the day, he paid tributes at the memorial of RSS founder Dr. Keshav Hedgewar at Smruti Mandir, Reshimbagh, and visited Deekshabhoomi to honor Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. A Legacy of Service and Societal Upliftment Reflecting on RSS’ history since its inception in 1925, Modi described the organization as a steadfast pillar of societal service, shaping the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). He acknowledged the early struggles faced by RSS under Dr. Hedgewar’s leadership and commended its volunteers for their tireless humanitarian efforts, including disaster relief and assistance to pilgrims at religious gatherings like the Maha Kumbh. “RSS’ dream of a developed India is taking shape,” he said, adding that the nation has significant milestones to achieve over the coming year, laying the groundwork for the country’s progress over the next thousand years. Erasing Colonial Legacies and Inspiring Youth PM Modi reiterated his government’s commitment to erasing remnants of India’s colonial past, emphasizing recent initiatives like replacing the British-era Indian Penal Code with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and renaming Rajpath in Delhi to Kartavya Path. He also mentioned the renaming of islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago after nationalist icons such as Vinayak Savarkar and Subhas Chandra Bose. Sharing an anecdote about MS Golwalkar, a former RSS chief, Modi quoted him as saying, “If there is darkness in society, RSS ensures there is light so others can continue their work.” The Youth: Beacons of a Developed India Highlighting the role of youth in nation-building, PM Modi called them the “beacons of Viksit Bharat,” praising their contributions to the global startup ecosystem as a testament to India’s growing influence on the world stage. “A new chapter is being written in our country’s history,” he declared, expressing confidence in the youth’s pivotal role in shaping India’s future. RSS Chief and CM Praise Service-Oriented Spirit Concluding the event, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat reflected on the organization’s century-long dedication to national service. “What began in Ramtek has now reached Madhav Netralaya,” he said, before humbly yielding the stage to PM Modi. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also expressed his appreciation for Madhav Netralaya’s upcoming hospital and commended RSS’ service-oriented outreach, marking the occasion as a milestone in the journey of public welfare and social upliftment.

Ajay Devgn’s ‘Raid 2’ Teaser Out: Riteish Deshmukh Joins the Battle of Power and Justice

The much-awaited teaser of Ajay Devgn’s ‘Raid 2’ has finally dropped, and it promises a high-octane battle between power and justice. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the sequel to the 2018 hit Raid sees Ajay Devgn reprising his role as the fearless IRS officer Amay Patnaik, who is relentless in his pursuit of justice. A New Antagonist: Riteish Deshmukh as Dadabhai While Saurabh Shukla returns as Rameshwar Singh, the antagonist from the first film, this time he’s behind bars, pondering who Amay Patnaik’s next target could be. The teaser then introduces the new villain, Riteish Deshmukh as Dadabhai, a powerful political leader who is ruthless and cunning. Riteish’s presence as Dadabhai brings a new edge to the story, as his menacing aura perfectly complements Ajay’s unwavering resolve. The teaser is filled with sharp dialogue and intense confrontations, with Ajay delivering one of the most powerful lines:“Mein pura Mahabharat hu (I am the Mahabharat).” Star Cast and Release Date The film also features Vaani Kapoor and Rajat Kapoor in pivotal roles. With power-packed action sequences and confrontations between Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh, the teaser has already set social media buzzing. ‘Raid 2’ is set to hit theaters on May 1, 2025. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the epic clash between IRS officer Amay Patnaik and Dadabhai unfolds on the big screen. What do you think about Riteish Deshmukh playing the antagonist? Are you excited to see this face-off? 4o

Saif Ali Khan Stabbing Case: Accused Shariful Islam Shehzad Seeks Bail, Claims Innocence

The Bangladeshi national accused of stabbing Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan has filed a bail application, claiming he has been falsely implicated in the case. The accused, Mohammad Shariful Islam Shehzad (30), was arrested two days after the brutal attack on Saif at his residence in Bandra, Mumbai, on January 16. Saif Ali Khan, 54, was stabbed multiple times by an intruder inside his upscale apartment, leading to his hospitalization and emergency surgery at Lilavati Hospital. Accused Claims Unlawful Arrest In his bail plea, filed through advocate Ajay Gawali before the sessions court on Friday, Shariful argued that his arrest was illegal and arbitrary. He alleged that the investigating agency violated Section 47 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which mandates informing an accused about the grounds of arrest and their right to bail. The plea also pointed out that even if the witnesses’ statements are presumed accurate, they fail to satisfy the criteria under Section 311 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with robbery or dacoity committed with intent to cause death or grievous hurt. Shariful contended that the investigation is almost complete, with all necessary recovery and discovery conducted. Since the only remaining step is the filing of the chargesheet, he argued that further detention would serve “no useful purpose”. CCTV Footage and Evidence The Mumbai Police claim that CCTV footage from January 9 — a week before the stabbing — helped identify Shariful. The footage allegedly shows him wandering around the Dadar railway station area, as well as parts of Prabhadevi and Worli Koliwada, near Saif’s home. Despite this, Shariful maintains his innocence and insists that his arrest was unwarranted. The plea will be heard on April 1. Public Reactions and Concerns Fans of Saif Ali Khan and the public at large have been following the case closely, expressing both outrage and shock over the incident. While many are calling for strict punishment, others are urging for a fair trial to ensure that justice prevails. What are your thoughts on this development? Should the court grant bail to the accused, or should he remain in custody given the severity of the charges?

Hrithik Roshan to Direct and Star in “Krrish 4”

In a groundbreaking move for Bollywood’s iconic superhero franchise, Hrithik Roshan is set to make his directorial debut with Krrish 4. The megastar, who headlined all three previous installments of the blockbuster series, will take on the dual role of director and lead actor in the highly anticipated sequel. Production Details The film will be produced by Yash Raj Films in collaboration with franchise creator Rakesh Roshan’s FilmKraft Productions. Aditya Chopra, head of YRF, reportedly played a crucial role in convincing Hrithik to step behind the camera, marking a new creative era for the franchise. Rakesh Roshan Passes the Baton Speaking about the transition, Rakesh Roshan expressed his pride in Hrithik’s vision and ambition for the project. “I’m passing the baton to my son, Hrithik Roshan, who has lived and dreamt about this franchise since its inception. I couldn’t be prouder to see him wear the director’s hat for a film that means the world to us as a family,” he said. The collaboration between YRF and FilmKraft Productions brings together two of Bollywood’s most powerful filmmaking families. Rakesh Roshan praised Aditya Chopra’s involvement, highlighting YRF’s technological capabilities and expertise as invaluable assets to the project. A New Era for India’s Superhero The Krrish franchise began in 2003 with Koi… Mil Gaya, a sci-fi drama that struck an emotional chord with audiences. It was followed by Krrish (2006) and Krrish 3 (2013), cementing Hrithik’s masked crusader as India’s answer to Superman. Known for its spectacular VFX, shape-shifting villains, and mythological undertones, the franchise remains one of Bollywood’s most successful and enduring cinematic ventures. Global Aspirations Rakesh Roshan expressed his confidence in the new director-producer duo, saying, “Hrithik and Adi coming together as a producer-director pair with me behind them is a rare and creatively potent combination. We aim to make Krrish 4 a global cinematic experience like never before.” Production Timeline Filming for Krrish 4 is expected to begin in early 2026, but an official release date has yet to be announced. Fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally powerful chapter in India’s premier superhero saga.

Budget-Friendly Pod Hotel to Open at Bhopal Railway Station on April 4

A new budget-friendly pod hotel is set to open on April 4 at Bhopal Railway Station, near Platform No. 6, offering an affordable and comfortable resting space for travelers. The facility, located on the first floor of the station’s new building, will provide 20 family pods and 118 single-bed pods for passengers. Affordable and Convenient Stay Options The rental charges will start at just ₹299 per hour, making it a cost-effective option for short-term stays. The railway authorities will also arrange food and beverages for guests. Pod Hotel Facilities The single-bed pods will be 5 feet by 7 feet in size, while the family pods will accommodate two adults and two small children. The pods are designed to serve passengers waiting for their next train, especially those with layovers of 2 to 4 hours. Amenities for a Comfortable Stay Final Preparations Underway According to Senior DCM Saurabh Kataria, the project is in its final stage, with last-minute arrangements being made for a smooth launch. The official inauguration date and a detailed pricing structure will be announced soon. This much-awaited project, which has been under discussion for the past three years, is finally set to enhance travel comfort at Bhopal Railway Station.

SC Slams UP Government for Demolishing Homes in Prayagraj within 24 Hours of Notice

In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court of India expressed shock over the Uttar Pradesh government’s swift demolition of houses in Prayagraj within just 24 hours of issuing a notice to the occupants. The court found this action to be highly problematic, stating that it “shocks the conscience” of the judiciary. The two-judge bench, led by Justice A S Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, was hearing an appeal challenging a 2021 Allahabad High Court order that dismissed a petition against the demolition. The petitioners, which included a professor, a lawyer, and three other individuals, argued that they had not been given adequate time to challenge the demolition. The case stems from the demolition of houses on a Nazool plot, a government-owned land leased in 1906. The lease expired in 1996, and applications for freehold conversion were rejected in 2015 and 2019. The Uttar Pradesh government argued that the land was reserved for public use, and the petitioners had no legal rights to the property due to the lack of district collector approval for their transactions. Justice Oka, while delivering the judgment, criticized the manner in which the notices were served. He pointed out that the demolition was carried out just a day after the notice was delivered, without giving the residents a reasonable opportunity to appeal. The court emphasized that the state must act fairly and provide adequate time for individuals to challenge such decisions before taking any drastic action. Although the state’s Attorney General R Venkatramani defended the government, stating that prior notices were served in 2020 and early 2021, the court was unconvinced by the argument. The bench noted that only one of the three notices was delivered via registered post, while others were simply affixed to the premises. As a result, the Supreme Court decided that the affected residents should be allowed to reconstruct their homes at their own cost. However, the court also warned that if the appeal fails, the properties must be demolished at the appellants’ expense. The court concluded by stressing that such actions by the state should not be supported, as it would set a dangerous precedent if tolerated. The judgment underscores the importance of due process and the fair treatment of citizens in legal matters related to property rights.

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