July 27, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Tag: politics

Meerut Police Issues Strict Warnings Ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, Threatens Passport and Licence Cancellations

Ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr and the last Friday prayers of Ramzan, the Meerut Police has issued a stern warning against offering namaz on public roads. Violators could face severe legal consequences, including the cancellation of passports and driving licences. Official Statement and Warnings Meerut Superintendent Police (City), Ayush Vikram Singh, emphasized that Eid prayers should be performed only at local mosques or designated Eidgahs. He stated that any violation of this directive would result in legal action, including the possible revocation of passports and licences. Union Minister and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Jayant Singh Chaudhary elaborated on the legal consequences, stating that individuals facing criminal charges may have their passports and licences confiscated. Furthermore, obtaining a new passport would be challenging without a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the court. Enhanced Security Measures To ensure law and order, Meerut Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Vipin Tada confirmed that the police have conducted meetings at both district and station levels, with clear directives issued after consultations with community leaders. The police are also monitoring social media to curb the spread of rumors or attempts to incite unrest. Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed across sensitive areas identified from past experiences. Flag marches are being conducted to display a strong security presence. Aerial and Ground Surveillance Drones will be deployed for aerial surveillance, and local intelligence teams are actively monitoring the situation. Both uniformed and plainclothes officers will be stationed at sensitive locations to maintain peace. Coordination with Community Leaders SSP Tada stated that the administration is working closely with prominent citizens and religious leaders to ensure peaceful observance of Eid and Friday prayers. Consequences of Violations Violators of the road namaz ban could face not only criminal charges but also the cancellation of passports and driving licences. Without clearance from the court, new documents cannot be issued, making it a serious deterrent for potential violators. The police’s stringent stance aims to maintain communal harmony and ensure a peaceful celebration of the festival.

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Comedian Kunal Kamra Seeks Transit Anticipatory Bail Amid Legal Troubles

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has approached the Madras High Court seeking transit anticipatory bail after facing multiple FIRs in Maharashtra. The FIRs were filed in connection with his alleged derogatory remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Kamra is seeking protection from arrest while he prepares to contest the charges. Controversial Remarks in YouTube Special The controversy began after Kamra referred to Eknath Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor) in his latest YouTube stand-up special titled “Naya Bharat”. The remark sparked outrage within political circles, particularly among Shiv Sena leaders, who demanded strict action against the comedian. The backlash led to the filing of multiple FIRs against Kamra across Maharashtra. Mumbai Police Summons and Expanding Investigation Earlier this week, the Mumbai Police issued a second summon to Kamra, instructing him to appear for questioning. Initially, Kamra’s lawyer had requested a seven-day extension, but after Kamra failed to appear, the police set a new date after consulting legal advisors. Police officials stated that they are expanding the investigation to examine whether Kamra has made similar satirical comments about other politicians, actors, or sportspersons in the past. If more violations are discovered, additional cases could be filed against him. Political Backlash and Vandalism Incident Kamra’s joke has provoked a strong political reaction, with Shiv Sena leaders condemning his remarks and demanding stringent legal action. The controversy escalated when Shiv Sena workers allegedly vandalised The Habitat comedy club in Mumbai, where Kamra had previously performed. In response to the attack, Kamra released a new video mocking the vandalism and criticising the party’s reaction to his joke. He continued to assert his right to freedom of expression, despite the mounting legal challenges. Government’s Stance on the Controversy Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar stated that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had already addressed the matter in the state Assembly, assuring that legal action would proceed according to due process. Fadnavis emphasised that while freedom of expression is important, it should not be exploited to spread “tyranny”. The situation remains tense as Kamra awaits the court’s decision on his transit anticipatory bail, while political and legal pressures continue to mount.

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BJP Expels Basanagouda Patil Yatnal for Indiscipline; Leader Alleges Political Targeting

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expelled senior leader and former Union Minister Basanagouda Patil Yatnal from the party for six years, citing repeated instances of indiscipline. The decision was announced on Wednesday by the party’s Central Disciplinary Committee, following a review of his response to a show cause notice issued on February 10. In response, Yatnal took to social media, claiming that he was being punished for speaking out against dynasty politics and corruption within the party. He alleged that his expulsion was orchestrated by vested interests to silence his demands for reforms and the development of North Karnataka. Yatnal has been a vocal critic of former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and his son, B.Y. Vijayendra, who currently heads the BJP’s Karnataka unit. He previously accused the Yediyurappa government of financial irregularities amounting to ₹40,000 crore during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite his removal, Yatnal vowed to continue his political journey, asserting that he would not be deterred from his fight against corruption and authoritarianism. His expulsion marks a significant development in Karnataka’s political landscape, potentially influencing BJP’s internal dynamics in the state.

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India-US Trade Talks Begin in Delhi, Trump Administration Seeks Collaborative Approach

As India and the United States commenced their first in-person trade agreement negotiations in New Delhi on Wednesday, US trade officials clarified that India would not be treated like China, Mexico, or Canada regarding tariffs. The discussions aim to lay the foundation for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), with a roadmap expected to be finalized by autumn 2025. The meeting comes ahead of former US President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariffs taking effect on April 2, reigniting trade tensions with China, Canada, and Mexico. However, officials emphasized that India’s trade concerns are primarily tariff-related and are being resolved amicably. The three-day negotiations are led by India’s Commerce Ministry Additional Secretary Rajesh Agarwal and US Assistant Trade Representative Brendan Lynch. The framework for structured negotiations is expected to be finalized by Friday. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to visit Washington in April to further trade discussions, reinforcing India’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with the US. In February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump set an ambitious target to boost bilateral trade from $200 billion to $500 billion by 2030.

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Tamil Nadu Assembly Passes Resolution Urging Centre to Withdraw Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on Thursday (March 27, 2025) unanimously adopted a resolution urging the Union government to withdraw the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, arguing that it was against the interests of Muslims in the country. The resolution was supported by all political parties, including the AIADMK, while the BJP, which opposed it, staged a walkout before the voting. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who moved the resolution, stated that the Constitution granted religious groups the right to practice their faith, and that it was the duty of a democratically elected government to safeguard these rights. He criticized the proposed amendments, asserting that they would severely impact the Muslim minority and called for the complete withdrawal of the Bill. BJP member Vanathi Srinivasan defended the Centre’s move, claiming that the amendments were aimed at addressing irregularities in the management of Waqf properties and ensuring better representation for women and the backward sections of the Muslim community. However, Law Minister S. Regupathy countered, alleging that the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) had ignored the views of certain members, labeling the Bill as an “economic assault on the Muslim community.” DMK members A. Raja and M.M. Abdullah, who were part of the JPC, were reportedly not given an opportunity to fully express their views on the proposed changes. AIADMK leader S.P. Velumany backed the resolution, while PMK leader G.K. Mani suggested that the Bill should only proceed if the Centre could build a consensus among stakeholders. Despite the BJP’s opposition, the resolution was passed with unanimous support from the rest of the Assembly.

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Delhi Budget 2025-26: CM Rekha Gupta Unveils ₹1 Lakh Crore Budget with Focus on Infrastructure, Women’s Welfare, and Clean Water

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta presented the Budget 2025-26 in the state assembly on Tuesday, marking the first budget of the newly formed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government. The budget, amounting to ₹1 lakh crore, reflects a 31.5% increase from the previous year, with an emphasis on infrastructure, healthcare, women’s welfare, and urban development. Calling it a “historic budget,” CM Gupta stated that this marks the beginning of Delhi’s transformation after a decade of stagnation. She criticized the previous administration, alleging financial mismanagement and inefficiency. Key Highlights of Delhi Budget 2025-26: 🔹 Capital expenditure doubled: ₹28,000 crore allocated for infrastructure projects.🔹 Healthcare Boost: ₹2,144 crore earmarked for PM Jan Arogya Yojna.🔹 Women’s Welfare: ₹5,100 crore for Mahila Samridhi Yojana, providing ₹2,500 per month to eligible women.🔹 Improved Connectivity: ₹1,000 crore set aside for better Delhi-NCR transport links.🔹 Road & Bridge Infrastructure: ₹3,843 crore allocated for better roads and bridges.🔹 Women’s Safety: 50,000 CCTV cameras to be installed across Delhi.🔹 Affordable Meals: ₹100 crore to set up 100 Atal Canteens across the city.🔹 Slum Development: ₹696 crore for JJ clusters and slum improvement.🔹 Clean Water & Sanitation: ₹9,000 crore allocated for clean drinking water projects.🔹 Sewer System Overhaul: ₹500 crore for sewage treatment plants (STPs) and ₹250 crore for old sewer line replacements.🔹 Yamuna Cleaning Mission: ₹500 crore earmarked to ensure only treated water enters the river through 40 decentralized STPs.🔹 Education Initiatives: ₹100 crore for CM Shri Schools; ₹750 crore for free laptops to 1,200 top students of Class 10.🔹 Film & Culture: Delhi to host International Film Festival with ₹30 crore allocated.🔹 Maternity Benefits: ₹210 crore for expecting mothers, offering ₹21,000 financial aid and nutrient kits.🔹 Public Transport: ₹12,952 crore set aside, with free bus ride cards replacing pink tickets for women.🔹 Power & Electricity: ₹100 crore pilot project to shift overhead and high-tension power lines underground.🔹 Pollution Control: ₹300 crore allocated, plus ₹506 crore for the environment & forest department.🔹 MCD Funding: ₹6,897 crore granted to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).🔹 New Jail Project: Plans to relocate Tihar Jail to a new facility in Delhi’s outskirts. While presenting the budget, CM Gupta sharply criticized the previous AAP government, accusing it of corruption and inefficiency. She vowed that her administration would focus on housing for the poor, better sanitation, and improved education standards. With this budget, the BJP-led Delhi government aims to modernize infrastructure, improve urban living standards, and enhance women’s safety and welfare while boosting economic growth in the national capital.

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Allahabad High Court Bar Association Begins Indefinite Strike Against Justice Yashwant Varma’s Transfer

Lawyers Protest Lack of Transparency in Judiciary The Allahabad High Court Bar Association launched an indefinite strike on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in protest against the proposed transfer of Delhi High Court Justice Yashwant Varma to the Allahabad High Court. Leading the protest at gate number 3 of the high court, Bar Association president Anil Tiwari clarified that the demonstration was not directed against any specific judge or court but against a system that, according to him, has failed to uphold transparency. “Our fight is against corruption and the lack of transparency in the judicial system. We demand a reconsideration and withdrawal of this transfer order,” he said. Bar Association Stands Firm on Protest The Bar Association had reiterated its opposition to Justice Varma’s transfer on Monday, March 24, and subsequently decided to commence the strike. Mr. Tiwari warned that the association was prepared for an extended battle. “From the very beginning, there has been an attempt to cover up this matter. Lawyers across India are now fighting this battle, and we will not resume work until this issue is resolved, no matter the consequences,” he stated. Supreme Court Collegium Confirms Transfer Amid Allegations The Supreme Court collegium, on March 24, confirmed its recommendation to transfer Justice Varma back to his parent Allahabad High Court. This decision follows an ongoing inquiry regarding the alleged discovery of a large sum of cash at his official residence in Lutyens Delhi. The alleged cash was found after a fire broke out at his residence on March 14, prompting fire officials to respond. Following these developments, the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court took immediate action, including withdrawing judicial work from Justice Varma. The transfer recommendation was officially communicated to the Centre through a resolution uploaded on the Supreme Court’s website. Justice Varma Denies Allegations, Calls It a Conspiracy Justice Varma has firmly denied any involvement in the alleged cash discovery, stating that neither he nor his family had placed any money in his residence. He denounced the claims, calling them a conspiracy aimed at framing and maligning him. “I strongly reject the suggestion that the alleged cash belonged to me or my family members,” he asserted. Justice Varma’s Judicial Career Justice Varma enrolled as an advocate on August 8, 1992, and was appointed as an additional judge of the Allahabad High Court on October 13, 2014. He took oath as a permanent judge on February 1, 2016, before being elevated to the Delhi High Court on October 11, 2021. As the protest continues, the legal fraternity remains divided over the issue, with many lawyers demanding greater transparency in judicial transfers and disciplinary proceedings.

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US, Ukraine, and Russia Hold Talks in Saudi Arabia for Ceasefire Negotiations

Parallel Negotiations in Riyadh US and Ukrainian officials met in Saudi Arabia on Sunday night for discussions on de-escalating the ongoing war with Russia. The meeting, described as “productive and focused,” comes as Washington pushes for a broad ceasefire by April 20, which coincides with Easter in both Western and Orthodox traditions. However, according to a Bloomberg report, the timeline could be delayed due to the significant gap between Kyiv and Moscow’s positions. Meanwhile, Russian officials were set to hold separate discussions with the US on Monday, marking the first time such parallel negotiations have taken place since the early weeks of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. US-Ukraine Talks: Calls for a Just Peace The Ukrainian delegation, led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, concluded their meeting with American officials late Sunday night. Umerov stated that the discussion addressed key points, including energy security, and emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a “just and lasting peace.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated his stance that Russia is prolonging the war. He called for increased pressure on Moscow from Kyiv’s allies, stating, “New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war.” US-Russia Talks: Cautious Optimism The US-Russia negotiations were scheduled for Monday, with Russian state media confirming Moscow’s delegation had arrived in Riyadh on Sunday. American envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism that progress could be made, particularly regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea. He suggested that such an agreement could lead to a broader ceasefire. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov downplayed expectations of a swift resolution, emphasizing that negotiations were just beginning. Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected a US-Ukrainian call for an immediate 30-day ceasefire, instead proposing a halt in attacks only on energy facilities. Peskov warned of “difficult negotiations ahead” but acknowledged the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation between Russia and the US under the Trump administration. Outlook for Ceasefire While the US hopes to bridge the gap between Kyiv and Moscow through shuttle diplomacy, significant hurdles remain. Russia’s reluctance to agree to a full ceasefire and ongoing attacks on critical infrastructure complicate efforts toward de-escalation. The coming days will determine whether these parallel negotiations can lead to meaningful progress in ending the three-year-long war.

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Delhi High Court Withdraws Judicial Work from Justice Yashwant Varma Amid Cash Controversy

Judicial Work Withdrawn The Delhi High Court has withdrawn judicial work from Justice Yashwant Varma following a controversy surrounding the recovery of a large amount of cash from his residence. The decision was formalized through a notice issued by the Registrar of the High Court on Monday. The move came after Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, on March 22, directed the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court to refrain from assigning any judicial work to Justice Varma. “In view of the recent events, judicial work from Hon’ble Mr. Justice Yashwant Varma is withdrawn with immediate effect till further orders,” the High Court notice stated. Cash Discovery After House Fire The controversy erupted after a fire broke out at Justice Varma’s residence on March 14. During firefighting operations, authorities reportedly discovered unaccounted cash. A video of burnt cash being recovered was also allegedly shared by the Delhi Police Commissioner with the Chief Justice of the High Court. At the time of the incident, Justice Varma and his wife were traveling in Madhya Pradesh. His daughter and aged mother were present at home when the fire occurred. Repatriation to Allahabad High Court Following the revelations, the Supreme Court Collegium decided to repatriate Justice Varma to his parent High Court, the Allahabad High Court. Additionally, the Chief Justice of India initiated an in-house probe on March 21, forming a three-member committee to investigate the allegations. Supreme Court’s Response Meanwhile, the Supreme Court also published a report from the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court on the incident, along with Justice Varma’s response. The ongoing inquiry is expected to determine the implications of the recovered cash and its impact on Justice Varma’s judicial role.

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