AV 14th October 2023

FIRST & FOREMOST ASIAN WEEKLY IN EUROPE How GP surgeries are improving their services

EC announces assembly poll schedule for 5 states

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Exploring India's stunning stepwells

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14 - 20 OCTOBER 2023

Let noble thoughts come to us from every side

see inside

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08 Interfaith service at Manchester Cathedral celebrates love, peace, diversity and unity

Being divorced doesn’t make you any less of a parent

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Fear, silence, and social media in spotlight

CAN LABOUR RESET ITS RELATION WITH INDIA?

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VOL 52 - ISSUE 24

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EXCLUSIVE

Sikkim flash flood death toll touches 82

‘Don’t give up’, says first British Pakistani boxing talent with ADHD

UK stands with Israel

In the party conference season when both Labour and Conservatives are trying to earn their points and vote banks, the Labour Party denies entry to foreign journalists citing ‘limited capacity’ as a reason.

The Palace of Westminster illuminated in the colours of the Israeli flag

Sir Keir Starmer with Navendu Mishra, Shailesh Vara, Virendra Sharma, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Lord Navnit Dholakia, at a cross party Diwali celebration in the House of Commons

Shefali Saxena The annual party conferences are a major milestone ahead of the 2024 polls, as unprecedented interest was registered in this year’s conference. An event was reportedly held in South London to engage with the ethnic community and press and to raise interest. But sadly, during the time of delivery, many have been left out, and the international mediabearing the brunt.

Continued on page 12

Anusha Singh Israel has declared war against the Palestinian militant organisation Hamas following a significant multi-pronged attack on Saturday. This large-scale offensive has resulted in over 1000 casualties in Israel and triggered a series of retaliatory Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, claiming the lives of at least 765 individuals. In response, Israel conducted extensive airstrikes on cities in the blockaded Gaza Strip, resulting in the destruction of numerous buildings, including a hit a mosque and a marketplace.

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14 - 20 October 2023

Sunak may visit India to seal FTA There is potential for UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to visit New Delhi, pending resolution of remaining differences for the free trade agreement (FTA) with India, according to insiders.

Although both sides had considered a visit around October 28, nothing has been confirmed, indicating it hinges on FTA finalization. India and the UK have reportedly settled around 24 of the 26 chapters in the FTA and are now working to

Sunak and Narendra Modi

resolve issues like the mobility of people and import duty concessions on certain items.

Additionally, there's speculation about Sunak

attending the India-England World Cup one-day international cricket match in Lucknow on October 29.

However, the visit remains uncertain and contingent on the FTA's conclusion.

Rishi Sunak previously visited India in September during the G20 Summit, where he discussed FTA progress with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing hope for a balanced and mutually beneficial trade deal.

MoJ's independent adviser resigns due to rape myths in civil service Emily Hunt, the Ministry of Justice's rape adviser, has resigned due to a perceived "lack of commitment" to enhancing the justice system for survivors of sexual violence. Her departure also follows encounters with rape myths expressed within the civil service and police.

Hunt played a role in shaping the MoJ's Rape Review Action Plan in 2021

and was honoured earlier this year with an OBE for her contributions to supporting survivors of sexual violence.

In an interview with Channel 4, she explained her decision to step down and said, “I don't really feel like there is a purpose to my staying. I feel like I go into meetings, and I have conversations. And I say the same

Emily Hunt OBE

things over and over. And nothing happens.”

She added: “It just feels like there's a lack of will to continue to change.”

Irish Premier concerned about UK's “disengagement” from the world Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar expressed concerns about the UK's "disengagement from the world."

He commented on recent language from the Conservative Party conference, which discussed leaving the European Convention on Human Rights, stating that it does not align with his perception of Britain.

Varadkar made these remarks in Spain before a meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during a European Political Community gathering. He said, “ it does bother me to see the United Kingdom disengaging from the world, whether it’s reducing its budget for international aid, whether it’s leaving the

Leo Varadkar

European Union, and now even talking about withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights, that’s not the Britain I know.”

Varadkar also stated that he intended to discuss the UK's recent legislation concerning the legacy of the Northern Ireland Troubles with Mr. Sunak.

Despite facing significant opposition from political parties, victims' organi-

zations in Northern Ireland, and the Irish government, the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act received royal assent last month.

Key provisions of the law include offering limited immunity from prosecution for Troubles-related offenses to those who cooperate with the new Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery.

Additionally, the law will suspend future civil cases and inquests related to the Troubles.

Ireland is currently seeking legal advice on the possibility of bringing an interstate legal case before the European Court of Human Rights.

UK minister rules out free trade deal with Biden British Business and Trade Minister, Kemi Badenoch, has stated that the likelihood of a free trade agree-

ment (FTA) with the United States under President Joe Biden's administration is "zero," pointing to his stance

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on such agreements.

President Biden has suspended FTA negotiations with several countries, including the UK. When questioned about the possibility of a trade deal resembling a free trade agreement under the Biden administration during an event at the Conservative Party conference, Badenoch responded with "zero." Nonetheless, she expressed optimism about other avenues for cooperation, including critical minerals and partnerships with individual states.

Sunak determined to lead Tories towards victory Prime Minister Rishi Sunak presented himself as a resolute decision-maker and a catalyst for change, aiming to distance himself from the controversies and turbulence associated with previous Tory leaders. He sought to demonstrate to his party his capability to lead them to victory in the upcoming election.

During a speech that stretched over an hour at the party's annual conference, he pledged that the Tories, who were seemingly headed for defeat according to opinion polls, would break away from the established patterns of the past

Rishi Sunak at the annual conference

three decades of governance.

As Rishi Sunak geared up to deliver this pivotal policy address, he received an unexpected introduction from his "closest companion": his wife, Akshata

Murthy. She took the stage to share insights into what motivates her husband, even playfully mentioning his fondness for romantic comedy films.

Throughout his speech, Sunak made frequent references to his family and personal background, highlighting the diversity within his cabinet colleagues to emphasise the rich tapestry of the United Kingdom.

He also spoke warmly of his maternal grandfather, Raghubir Berry, who hailed from India and embarked on a journey to East Africa in the early 1950s before eventually settling in the UK.

Susan Hall under fire for implying Jews fear Sadiq Khan Tory mayoral candidate Susan Hall faced mounting criticism on Tuesday after implying that Jewish residents in London were fearful of Sadiq Khan.

During a Conservative Friends of Israel gathering at the party's conference in Manchester on Monday, she stated that one of her top priorities, if elected as Mayor next May, would be to enhance the city's safety, with a particular focus on "Jewish communities."

“I know how frightened

some of the community is because of the divisive attitude of Sadiq Khan,” she said.

She added that, “One of the most important things that I will do when I become mayor of London is to make it safer for everyone, but particularly for our Jewish community.”

These remarks prompted immediate backlash from supporters of the Muslim Labour mayor and some Jewish organisations, who labelled the comments as "disgusting" and a "dog whistle."

Susan Hall

The Jewish Labour Movement accused Ms. Hall of using the Jewish community for political purposes, with its chair, Mike Katz, deeming her comments as "vile, ignorant, and incorrect."

Equality and diversity roles under review in job cuts initiative The Treasury's plans to reduce civil service headcount to pre-pandemic levels may jeopardise equality and diversity roles within the government.

Jeremy Hunt announced that civil service expansion would be halted at its current level, with a subsequent reduction in headcount to pre-pandemic levels. He emphasised that equality and diversity initiatives would be among the first areas to face cutbacks, stat-

Jeremy Hunt

ing, "Smashing glass ceilings is everyone's responsibility, not merely a checkbox for hiring diversity managers."

After his speech at the

Conservative Party conference, the Treasury confirmed through a press release that there would be a "value for money audit" of spending on equality, diversity, and inclusion within the civil service.

This audit is set to be a component of the government's public sector productivity review, with the chancellor expected to announce findings and actions during the autumn, as per the Treasury's statement.

Suella Braverman warns of an immigration "hurricane" Suella Braverman has criticised a key British human rights law, expressing surprise that it wasn't named the "Criminal Rights Act." During her speech at the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, Ms. Braverman delineated the battle lines on immigration between the Conservatives and Labour in anticipation of the next general election. She warned of an impending "hurricane" of immigration that would

dwarf her parents' generation's influx, likening it to a mere "gust of wind."

She implied that the Human Rights Act, implemented during the previous Labour government, was one of several laws and regulations that had "entangled" the government's efforts to address the small boats crisis in the English Channel.

Home Office data confirmed that over 25,000 individuals had been detected crossing the Channel in

Suella Braverman

small boats this year.

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Renewal v/s long-term decisions The UK’s general elections are a few months away, and both the leading parties - Conservatives and Labour have held their annual conferences, spoken their minds and taken their vows.

Both parties are making hefty promises to fix the British economy.

Labour seems to have travelled back in time as their potentially touted ‘Iron Chancellor’ Rachel Reeves is repeating Boris Johnson's economic policy. The shadow chancellor's party conference speech underscores the significant distance the party has travelled since Jeremy Corbyn's leadership. However, it was a surprising endorsement that followed, revealing the Opposition's strenuous efforts to garner support from influential economic figures in their pursuit of political authority. Back when Boris Johnson was the prime minister, this was, almost letter for letter, Conservative policy.

But her guest endorsement during the conference in Liverpool was a real surprise. At the grand screen in Liverpool, a video message was broadcast featuring a "distinguished guest." This guest happened to be none other than Mark Carney, the former governor of the Bank of England, who offered his endorsement. In the video, he remarked, "Rachel Reeves is a highly regarded economist. She initiated her career at the Bank of England and possesses a profound grasp of the broader economic landscape."

The Conservative Party conference slogan this year is "Long Term Decisions for a Brighter Future," but there's concern that the Conservative Party in Manchester didn’t convey stability. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt discussed three key economic stability points: a likely raise in the national living wage, further sanctions on benefit recipients not seeking work, and a

freeze on civil service hiring. These announcements, however, were mostly expected, and the conference's significance in shaping economic policy has diminished over time.

Starmer acknowledges recovery challenges due to Brexit, pandemics, and war but vows renewal and rebuilding, portraying Labour as healers and builders.

Sunak's address at the Conservative Party conference attempted to connect himself to Margaret Thatcher by referring to the Conservatives as "the party of the grocer's daughter and the pharmacist's son."

Interestingly, during Penny Mordaunt's speech, she portrayed Keir Starmer as a radical socialist reminiscent of the 1980s. However, the prime minister took a different approach, describing the Labour leader as "the embodiment of the political status quo of the past 30 years," someone who seeks to say and do as little as possible in the hope that it goes unnoticed.

Rishi Sunak was seen as the British prime minister who would steady the ship after the economic turmoil of Liz Truss.

But almost a year after he took office, his governing Conservative Party is trailing Labour in opinion polls.

In August this year, UK annual inflation did drop to a 15month low, easing the cost-of-living crisis and as lower energy prices prompted the UK’s annual inflation to drop sharply in July, PM Sunak said the figures show ‘the plan is working’.

However, with the ongoing Israel war, these figures are most likely to pierce through not just the UK but global economies, so whatever the plans were or are on either side of the parties, better be brilliant as they claim, to save the economy from drowning before a leader claims his tenure at Downing Street.

A warning lesson for India?

Israel has engaged in numerous conflicts with Arab nations and Palestinian organisations since becoming the Jewish state in 1948. Both the India-Pakistan rivalry, which was sparked by the partition of British India in 1948, and the Israel-Palestine war are burdened by long-standing grudges, territorial disputes, and the aspirations of their respective peoples. These disputes, born out of the tumultuous aftermath of World War II and the decolonisation era, have shaped the political landscapes of their respective regions for generations.

The historical relationship between the United Kingdom, Israel, and India is complex and multifaceted. The UK was involved in the creation of Israel through the Balfour Declaration of 1917, which expressed support for a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine. In the light of recent events, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed solidarity with Israel and reassured the Jewish community in Britain.

In addition to this, he pledged support for Israel, joining other world leaders in their response to the Hamas attacks.Organisations supporting Jewish communities such as BIJA have also come forward showing solidarity with the people of Israel.

While India initially did not recognise Israel after its establishment in 1948, it officially established full diplomatic relations with the country in 1992. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered solid support to Israel, throwing over 50 years of cautious Middle East diplomatic manoeuvring out of the window.

The Israel-Palestine conflict carries profound global con-

sequences, transcending regional borders. Diplomatic relations worldwide are influenced, leading countries to choose sides or engage in mediation efforts. As a result, this conflict affects geopolitical alliances, diverts resources, poses challenges to international law, influences global public opinion, shapes media narratives, and can have economic repercussions. This conflict can create unrest among the other countries who are on shaky terms with their neighbouring countries.

There are high chances that the surprise attack on Israel by Hamas militants can inspire future attacks on India by Pakistan. Despite diplomatic efforts and international pressure, Pakistan has continued to cause minor and major disturbances at the Indian border, and the risk of a large-scale war remains a concern. Cross-border terrorism and international mediation efforts further complicate the situation. The only respite is that both countries possess nuclear weapons, creating a deterrence against all-out conflict.

The Israel-Palestine conflict offers valuable lessons for addressing complex disputes worldwide. It underscores the importance of diplomacy and dialogue as the primary means of resolution, emphasising a two-state solution and international mediation while respecting international law. Inclusivity in peace talks, humanitarian aid, and public diplomacy are vital, but violence, unilateral actions, exclusion, incitement, and economic blockades should be avoided. Recognising the multifaceted nature of the conflict and promptly addressing humanitarian needs, regardless of politics, are key takeaways.

Fostering a diverse growth of Indian economy Uday Kotak, the billionaire founder of one of India's largest banks, has emphasised the need for India to avoid being influenced by a select group of conglomerates in shaping its future. Instead, he urges the country to prioritise inclusive growth, fostering a diverse range of successful entities, and this should be a simple task given the economic and startup boom that the country is currently witnessing.

Firstly, over the last decade, India has emerged as a pivotal player in the global economy. The nation has embraced international trade, witnessed robust workforce expansion, and attracted increased investment following economic reforms.

This economic surge has further solidified India's global trade connections.

In terms of economic data, India's GDP recorded a growth rate of 7.2% in the fiscal year 2022-23, a slight increase from the previously estimated 7%. This growth surpassed the government's forecast of 7%. Looking forward to the 2023-24 financial year, the central bank anticipates GDP growth to be approximately 6.5%.

Moreover, in recent years, India has transformed into a thriving hub for startups, driven by high growth rates and various conducive factors. Entrepreneurs are increasingly investing in sectors like information technology, finance, software, and more, attracted by the potential for financial gain. This trend is expected to continue, given the abundant workforce and supportive government policies. A recent study indicates that India's startup ecosystem is experiencing rapid growth, contributing significantly to the country's economic expansion.

Then why is it that these start-ups are unable to help their founders achieve tycoon status? The simple answer lies in what is commonly referred to as the "sell-out culture."

Startups often prioritise rapid revenue generation, prestige, and credibility early in their journey.

One of the primary motivations for startups to consider selling to larger companies is the prospect of substantial financial gains. Such transactions can result in significant financial returns for founders and early investors. This becomes especially appealing when a startup reaches a point where further growth necessitates substantial resources and capital. They may also choose to sell out for access to resources, market expansion or competitive pressures.

The Indian government, however, remains steadfast in its support of startups, offering a range of incentives to bolster the growth of startups. In recent years, various schemes have been introduced with the specific aim of nurturing startups: The "Startup India" initiative, launched in 2016, stands as a flagship program designed to promote entrepreneurship and innovation. It extends numerous benefits to startups, including tax exemptions, simplified compliance processes, and a dedicated online portal for registration and information.

Other notable initiatives include the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), the SAMRIDH Scheme, Digital India BHASHINI, the MSME Market Development Assistance (MDA) program, the NIDHI Scheme (National Initiative for Development and Harnessing Innovations), and the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS).

Hopefully, with increased promotion, funding, comprehensive research support, and valuable mentorship, a growing number of individuals with strong business acumen will emerge as influential figures in the business world. This collective effort will contribute to the country's economic growth, fostering a more diverse group of contributors who will share in the benefits of this progress.

Thought for the week “Suffering is the essence of success.”

- APJ Abdul Kalam

Political Sketchbook Alpesh Patel

The Double-Edged Sword of Western Freedoms: How Hamas and Khalistani Groups Exploit Liberty for Terrorism The West's Blind Spot Western democracies, notably the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, pride themselves on their unwavering commitment to freedom of expression and the right to protest. But here's the catch: these very freedoms are being weaponized by extremist groups like Hamas and Khalistani organizations to propagate terrorism.

The Hamas Deception Let's cut to the chase. Hamas isn't just a political organization; it's not the military arm of anything, or a militant group. It’s a terrorist group. They don't just fight against Israel; they exploit Western media to paint themselves as the victims. The recent attack on Israel is a glaring example. They use the West's freedom of the press as a propaganda machine, twisting narratives to gain international sympathy and support.

Khalistani Groups: The Babbar Khalsa Example Khalistani groups, such as Babbar Khalsa, are no different. Operating under the banner of 'peaceful protests' in countries like the UK and Canada, they advocate for a separate State by any means necessary, including violence. A State less then 0.01% of those in the affected regions want. These groups exploit the Western principle of freedom of assembly to organize rallies that are nothing short of recruitment drives for extremism.

The Terrorism Connection Here's where it gets real. Both Hamas and Khalistani groups like Babbar Khalsa are exploiting Western freedoms to further their terrorist agendas.

While Hamas uses media manipulation to justify rocket attacks on Israel, Babbar Khalsa and similar outfits use 'peaceful protests' as a façade for inciting violence against India. The West's cherished freedoms are being turned into a breeding ground for terrorism.

Time for a Reality Check Enough is enough. The West needs to snap out of its naivety and take a hard look at how its principles are being misused. Freedom of expression shouldn't be a free pass for terrorist propaganda. The right to protest shouldn't become a right to recruit for extremism.

Conclusion: The Urgent Need for Discernment It's high time the West tightens its grip on the freedoms it so dearly holds. A more discerning approach is crucial to differentiate between genuine activism and extremist manipulation. The line between freedom and anarchy is thin, and it's time to ensure it doesn't blur any further.

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Tories need to broaden appeal to all ethnic minorities A prominent Conservative party commentator believes that the Tories have grown "complacent" in their efforts to engage with ethnic minority politicians and voters.

While Rishi Sunak serves as prime minister and the cabinet includes ministers like Suella Braverman, Kemi Badenoch, and James Cleverly, making it one of the most diverse cabinets in history, Tim Montgomerie, a former special advisor to

Minister Boris Prime Johnson, stated that the party has not adequately reached out to all ethnic minority communities.

He said: “If you look at the kind of ethnic minority we promote, a lot of them are privately educated and are from quite prosperous backgrounds.

“As a party, are we really increasing ethnic minority candidates from more disadvantaged communities?”

Presently, there are 22

ethnic minority Conservative MPs, thanks to a deliberate effort to promote more non-white candidates and modernise the party. However, despite this progress, only around six percent of the Conservatives' 365 MPs come from a non-white background.

It's worth noting that ethnic minorities constitute 18 percent of the British population, as reported in the last census in 2021.

Reckless driver Rohail Jillani, hailing from Rusholme in Greater Manchester, was sentenced to eight years and eight months in prison after pleading guilty to causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving at Manchester Crown Court on Wednesday (4).

This follows a tragic accident in which a 17-yearold girl lost her life in a collision that reached speeds of 98mph. Reports indicate that Jillani, who was inhaling laughing gas and had no hands on the wheel, shared his reckless actions on social media, referring to it as his "Big Day."

Source: Greater Manchester Police

Man inhaling laughing gas causes fatal accident

Rohail Jillani

Moments later, he lost consciousness due to the fumes, causing his speeding white Mercedes A180 to swerve across the road and collide with a railway bridge at the junction of Temperance Street on Mancunian Way in

Manchester on January 10 of the previous year.

This incident, which occurred at 11:30 pm, resulted in fatal multiple injuries for 17-year-old Nadia Yusuf, who was seated in the front.

Another occupant, 20-yearold Shafi Sufi, survived but sustained severe, life-altering injuries.

Sadly, Nadia, who was described as "looking forward to a bright future" by her mother, tragically succumbed to her injuries approximately two hours later.

Following the incident, the 25-year-old driver, Jillani, posted boastful videos on social media.

in brief

Two in five hate HUMZA YOUSAF crimes in England FEATURED ON TIME and Wales target FRONT COVER Muslims The most recent data reveals that the majority of hate crimes in England and Wales for the year ending March 2023 were directed towards Muslims.

According to Home Office data released on Thursday (5), there were a total of 3,452 reported attacks against Muslims, constituting 39% of all reported hate crimes during that period. Notably, this represents the highest number of religious hate crimes reported since recording began in March 2012.

Overall, there was a nine percent increase in religious hate crimes between March 2022 and March 2023, with the total rising from 8,602 to 9,387.

In the past year, the second most targeted group was Jews, who experienced 1,510 hate crimes, while Christians were victims of 649 incidents. Additionally, there were 308 assaults against Sikhs, 291 incidents targeting Hindus, and 19 attacks against Buddhists.

Source: West Yorkshire Police

Source: West Yorkshire Police

Abdullah Mirzada

Khaja Raisoddin Mohammed

expected to last up to eight days.

On that Saturday around 11 am, West Yorkshire Police officers found Mirzada and Mohammed seriously injured. Mirzada was pronounced dead at the scene,

and Mohammed passed away in the hospital.

Investigations led to Jean's arrest.

Another man, aged 47, who was also arrested in connection with the incident, has been released without any charges.

Higher rates of stop and searches of British Asians Stop and searches of British Asians by police in England and Wales for the year ending March 2023 were 1.4 times higher than those from the white group, as per recent figures.

During this period, England and Wales witnessed eight stop and searches for individuals of Asian background per 1,000 population, according to statistics from the Home Office.

Cumbria had the highest

overall rate of stop and search for individuals from an Asian background, with 23 stop and searches per 1,000 population, followed by Merseyside with 15 per 1,000 population.

In contrast, Wiltshire had the lowest overall rate of stop and search for individuals from an Asian background, with just 1.4 per 1,000 population. The data also revealed that black individuals were 5.5 times more

likely than white individuals to be subjected to stop and search in the past year. This marks a decrease from 202122 when black individuals were 6.2 times as likely to be searched.

People identifying as mixed were subjected to stop and search at a rate 1.7 times higher than white individuals, while individuals from other ethnic groups were subjected to stop and search at a rate 1.3 times higher.

VISA FEE INCREASE FOR VISITORS AND STUDENTS NOW IN EFFECT

Celebrations follow the proposed India tour of Shivaji Maharaj's 'Tiger Claws'

According to the government's proposed visa fee increase that took effect on the October 4, a visit visa for under six months will cost an additional £15, and student visas will become £127 more expensive for travellers worldwide, including Indians. As per the legislation presented in Parliament last month, the UK Home Office has stated that these changes will raise the cost of a visit visa for less than six months to £115 and increase the fee for applying for a student visa from outside the UK to £490, matching the amount charged for in-country applications.

The Maharashtra Mandal in London hosted lively celebrations as a state government delegation, led by Minister for Cultural Affairs Sudhir Munganitwar, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Victoria & Albert (V&A) Museum in the city this week.

NATIONAL TRUST GAINS PUBLIC CONFIDENCE

Man to stand trial for Leeds double murder A man accused of murdering his two housemates in Leeds last week will face trial in March next year.

Robert Jean, aged 46, was taken into custody after Abdullah Mirzada and Khaja Raisoddin Mohammed were discovered with fatal injuries at Hill Top Mount in Harehills on Saturday (30).

The defendant appeared in Leeds Crown Court on Friday (6), following his initial appearance in a magistrate's court two days earlier. He has been remanded in custody, and his trial, set to commence on March 18, is

Scotland's First Minister, Humza Yousaf, has been featured on the front cover of Time magazine, where he is described as one of the ten "trailblazers shaping the future." This recognition coincided with his Scottish National Party's larger-than-anticipated defeat in a parliamentary constituency on the outskirts of Glasgow. Yousaf, who was born to Pakistani immigrants, assumed the role of Scotland's leader in March this year, succeeding his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon, who resigned dramatically. The Time article referred to Yousaf as "the new face of Scotland" and included him in its list of "rising stars."

(L-R) Dr Tristram Hunt; Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, Sudhir Mungantiwar, Ministry of Cultural Affairs (Maharashtra), Uday Samant, Cabinet Minister of Ministry of Industries and Vikram Doraiswami; High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom

The MoU establishes a three-year loan agreement to transport a set of 'Tiger Claws' (wagh nakh) that once belonged to the legendary Maratha leader Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. These Tiger Claws are a representative example of a weapon that was popular in the 17th century.

The specific set in question has long piqued the interest of scholars due to the 19thcentury leather case made for them by their owner at the time. The case asserts that these are the same Tiger Claws used by Shivaji Maharaj during his historic battle and triumph over Azfal Khan in 1659.

The claws will embark on a tour of cities around Maharashtra next year, in time for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's significant coronation festivities.

According to a survey, the heritage conservation charity National Trust has gained increased public confidence compared to the previous year. The survey, conducted by the think tank More in Common and University College London's Policy Lab, revealed that 71 percent of the 2,000 British adult respondents trusted the National Trust, representing a seven percentage point improvement over the past year. A similar number of people expressed their belief that the charity is a force for good, although the proportion varied significantly with age. The survey was conducted between July and September of this year.

STATE PENSION SET TO INCREASE WITH TRIPLE LOCK INTACT Jeremy Hunt has sent a clear indication that the Government intends to keep the triple lock intact for numerous pensioners. There has been increasing speculation about whether Rishi Sunak would preserve the state pension guarantee in its existing format as he grapples with budgetary concerns. The triple lock policy, which was a key pledge in the Tory manifesto, raises the state pension each April based on the highest of inflation, average wage growth, or 2.5%. The Chancellor hinted at his intention to maintain the triple lock when questioned about reports of a potential review.

US student saved by NHS pledges to emulate his rescuers Atul Rao, a US citizen with Indian roots who was pursuing his studies in London, faced a life-threatening situation when his heart stopped multiple times within a span of a few hours.

Remarkably, he has since made a full recovery and is now determined to

dedicate his "second chance" to following in the footsteps of the dedicated doctors, nurses, and paramedics of the National Health Service (NHS) who saved his life.

Rao was rushed to the heart attack centre at Hammersmith Hospital, part of Imperial College

Healthcare NHS Trust in London, where diagnostic scans revealed that blood clots in his lungs were obstructing the heart's blood flow. Over a span of two weeks in July, Atul made a remarkable recovery from a pulmonary embolism, which had triggered his cardiac arrests.

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Man gets nine years for failed crossbow assault on Queen A man who admitted attempting to assassinate the late Queen Elizabeth II by trespassing on the Windsor Castle grounds with a loaded crossbow has been sentenced to nine years.

Jaswant Singh Chail, 21, will initially serve his sentence at the high-security Broadmoor psychiatric hospital, transitioning to

prison once his mental health improves. Chail, a former supermarket employee, was described by Judge Nicholas Hilliard at London's Old Bailey court as having "lost touch with reality" and had become psychotic.

On Christmas Day 2021, he broke into the queen's residence and openly confessed to an armed officer

that he intended to "kill the queen." In his journal, Chail expressed his intent to target the "prince" as a "suitable figurehead" if he couldn't reach the monarch, likely referring to her son, King Charles III. Chail pleaded guilty to three charges in a previous hearing, marking the first admission of treason in the UK in decades.

Black charity leader assaulted in racist Tube attack Selma Taha, the director of Southall Black Sisters, a women's organisation, was caught in a racially motivated attack on Friday (29) while on the London Underground.

The incident occurred on a Northern line train when Taha and her two friends were confronted by a 30-year-old woman. Despite the presence of an off-duty police officer nearby, immediate intervention was lacking, as reported by The BBC. According to Taha, the situation escalated when the alleged attacker pushed a suitcase towards them and hurled derogatory racist slurs, including the term "slaves." The verbal con-

Selma Taha

frontation turned physical, with the attacker even biting Taha through her clothes and pulling out clumps of her hair.

Several passengers attempted to verbally inter-

vene, including the off-duty detective constable who only revealed his identity after the incident had occurred. An outraged Taha confronted the off-duty Metropolitan Police officer, expressing her belief that his intervention had been inadequate. She stated that he claimed to have "only heard a verbal escalation."

When British Transport Police (BTP) officers eventually arrived, Taha questioned why the woman was not being arrested, but she said the officers criticised them for shouting. Despite her request, an ambulance did not arrive, and station staff provided her with medical attention.

Man who raped 13-year-old girl sentenced to nine years in jail A 27-year-old man, Sheikh Mahmood, residing on Whitehall Road in West Bromwich, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for the rape of a 13year-old girl he had met on social media.

In February, Mahmood lured the teenager into his car and arranged a meeting.

He then drove her to a secluded car park in Warwick, where he committed the rape, as confirmed

by Warwickshire Police.

The incident took place

on February 10, and upon returning to her friend's house, the victim reported the rape. The police were promptly contacted, leading to Mahmood's arrest at his West Bromwich residence the following day. After a four-day trial in August, a jury unanimously found him guilty of rape.

During a hearing at Warwick Crown Court on Monday, October 2, Mahmood also admitted to supplying cannabis to the same girl on the night of the

Sheikh Mahmood

offense, which resulted in his prison sentence.

Leicester MP defends against 'failed' multiculturalism comment Leicester MP Jon Ashworth continues to express his strong displeasure towards Home Secretary Suella Braverman, who had previously characterised the city as an example of "failed" multiculturalism.

During the Thursday night episode of BBC Question Time, which was

filmed in Wolverhampton, Braverman's choice of language when discussing immigration issues took centre stage in the discussion. Ashworth passionately accused the cabinet minister of using Leicester "as a pawn in her bid to become the next Tory leader."

In the days following

Braverman's speech, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was questioned about whether he concurred with her statement. He responded to ITV and the BBC by expressing his affection for Leicester, describing it as a "remarkable example" within the United Kingdom.

Taxi drivers stage protest against 'discriminatory' rules Controversial new regulations for taxi drivers have been temporarily suspended following a protest by over 100 taxi drivers who deemed the policy as "discriminatory."

The proposed regulations by West Northamptonshire Council included penalties, such as

points on their record, for failing to adhere to a dress code and for punctuality issues, potentially jeopardising their licenses.

Additionally, foreign nationals would be required to furnish a 'certificate of good conduct' from each country they had resided in as adults.

In response to these

measures, taxi drivers staged a protest outside a meeting of the council's taxi and general licensing committee on Tuesday evening. They argued that these rules would subject them to humiliation and fear, while also appearing to disproportionately target individuals from ethnic communities.

in brief Man arrested in relation to Indian High DIWALI FOUNDATION Commission attack EXPANDS FOOD HAMPERS The Metropolitan Police has apprehended an individual under suspicion of "violent disorder" in connection with the March attack on the Indian High Commission in London.

During a protest outside India House on October 2, a British Sikh man was observed being escorted away by patrolling police officers. The protest aimed to urge the UK government to address Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's claims of Indian involvement in the killing of wanted terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, an allegation vehemently refuted

by India as "absurd and motivated."

The arrest is linked to events on March 19.

The individual has been released on bail while further investigations take place.

The Diwali Basket Brigade, organised by The Diwali Foundation, is a volunteer-driven initiative committed to providing food hampers to vulnerable families of diverse backgrounds and faiths. This initiative was established as a way for the community to contribute during this auspicious period. Since its launch in 2018, the Diwali Basket Brigade has distributed over 8,000 food hampers.

Initially based in Birmingham, the effort has expanded to include London, Manchester, and, in 2023, Leicester as well.

FATHER KILLED IN A5 CRASH IDENTIFIED

father, Alomgir Hussain, in his 30s, who Sentencing error in The tragically lost his life alongside his two in a horrific crash on the A5 last TikTok influencer trial children month, has been identified. A fundraiser A crown court judge issued an apology to a convicted murderer after a mix-up resulted in the extension of jail sentence. Rekan Karwan, who had been found guilty alongside TikTok influencer Mahek Bukhari and two others in the murder of two individuals in a fatal crash, will now spend an additional 15 days behind bars.

Karwan, Mahek, her mother Ansreen Bukhari, and Raees Jamal had all received life sentences for their involvement in the deaths of Saqib Hussain and Hashim Ijazuddin in a crash on the A46 in Leicestershire the previous year. Each of them had been assigned a minimum sentence, indicating the duration they must serve before being eligible for parole consideration.

Originally, Karwan had been given a 27year minimum sentence, but this was reduced by two months for time spent on tagged curfew and by 362 days for time already served.

However, Leicester Crown Court learned that 15 of those days behind bars were a result of a court fine non-payment and unrelated to the fatal crash. He had been sentenced to 30 days, of which he had served half.

According to the rules governing murderers, he needed to appear before the court for the trial judge, Timothy Spencer KC, to rectify the sentence.

established in their memory has garnered over £20,000 in support. The fatal collision occurred when the car they were in collided with a lorry on Watling Street, near Hinckley, on Friday, September 8. Alomgir's wife was also present in the car during the accident, and, as per the fundraiser dedicated to the father and his two children, she experienced a miscarriage as a result of the incident.

SENIOR TORY DEMANDS BRAVERMAN DISMISSAL On Thursday, a senior Tory urged Rishi Sunak to dismiss Suella Braverman in an upcoming reshuffle. Lord Barwell, former chief-of-staff for Theresa May, commended the Prime Minister for his speech at the Tory conference in Manchester on Wednesday, where he hailed the UK as the "most successful multi-ethnic democracy on Earth." He perceived this as a veiled criticism of Rightwinger Ms. Braverman, who had recently suggested in a US speech that multiculturalism had "failed," with some immigrants not fully embracing British values and leading "parallel lives" to the rest of the country.

COUNTRY'S LONGEST Crackdown on BANNING ORDER FOR parents evading LANDLORD A Sheffield resident, Nilendu Das, has been on the Rogue Landlord Database and child maintenance placed barred from leasing or overseeing properties for a decade. This action was taken because payments Mr. Das, who is a landlord and entrepreneur The UK government has unveiled a fresh initiative to combat parents who evade child maintenance payments. This includes the introduction of new measures to expedite enforcement actions and enhance fairness in the system for both children and parents.

Announced on October 3, 2023, the changes encompass a consultation on court orders granting the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) authority to seize the assets of parents evading maintenance payments or even prohibiting them from driving.

Additionally, the government has scrapped the £20 application fee for parents seeking to use the CMS to collect child maintenance from the other parent.

The government has also proposed the development of a new online portal to assist parents in handling their child maintenance cases. Additionally, there will be a new awareness campaign designed to highlight the advantages of making child maintenance payments and the repercussions of non-compliance.

These reforms align with the government's overarching objective of creating a more equitable Child Maintenance Service (CMS) for both children and parents, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that every child receives the financial support they rightfully deserve from both parents.

residing on Carter Knowle Avenue, repeatedly rented out unsafe properties.This marks the first instance in which Sheffield City Council has sought a banning order, asserting that the properties in question were among the most perilous ever encountered by its enforcement personnel.The 10-year ban, issued on August 21 following a decision by the First-tier Tribunal in Manchester, is currently the lengthiest such order in the country, as confirmed by the council.

WESTCOTES MEN ABDUCT WOMAN Three predatory men abducted a woman following a night out in Leicester city center.

Initially, the victim believed she was entering a taxi, unaware of the harrowing situation that awaited her. This incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, January 16, the previous year, when the female victim was lured into an Audi occupied by Ajay Doppalapudi, Vahar Manchala, and Rana Yellambai. They had approached her after her night out, and she mistakenly assumed the vehicle was a taxi. Investigations into the abduction uncovered CCTV footage of the Audi in which the victim had entered the city centre. Consequently, they were all apprehended and arrested.

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PRODUCED IN ASSOCIATION WITH HM GOVERNMENT

HOW GP SURGERIES ARE IMPROVING THEIR SERVICES

Online, by phone or in person - lots of ways to get in touch with your GP Practice so you get the best care.

New radical plans for the NHS are being rolled out across GP surgeries in England, which are now working with a wide range of health practitioners so you or a family member have access to the most efficient patient care.

The introduction of over 29,000 new health and care staff into GP surgeries means more patients will get the care they need from the right health professional first time and helps ensure that appointments with GPs are available to all those who need them.

When you request help from your GP surgery team by phone or in person, trained Receptionists will ask you some basic questions about what you need help with. It enables them to link you up with the right health professional – from Physiotherapists to

Alongside this modernisation, there are now new ways you can contact your GP surgery. As well as phoning or visiting, you can use an online form on your practice’s website to request an appointment, advice or other kinds of help. You simply answer a few questions on the online form and click ‘send’. The practice’s team assess your request and get back to you as soon as they can.

And no matter how you requested care – online, by telephone or in person – the team will ensure you get the help you need.

Mental Health Practitioners, Care Coordinators to Health and Wellbeing Coaches, Pharmacists to Nurses.

After all, if you need physiotherapy for a back or

sports injury, it’s probably a physio you need to speak to, rather than a GP. Having a wider team of specialists available in the GP practice, means you can often get

to see the right health professional first and often more quickly, while GPs can spend more time with patients who need their care most.

Trust your reception team to get you to the right care, from the right health professional. Go to nhs.uk/GPservices for more information.

These are some of the health professionals who may be working at your GP surgery • Reception Team: Staff in your practice’s reception team are specially trained to know about the services available to you at your GP surgery and in your area. The information you provide to them enables them to assess your needs and ensure you get the right kind of care, no matter how you got in touch. They treat everything you tell them as confidential.

They can help by: • Getting you an appointment with the right health professional as quickly as possible.

• Identifying services you can access with a GP referral.

• Making appointments for new kinds of care or services you may not be aware of.

• Care Coordinators: Care Coordinators work with people who may need extra

support. This could include physical activities and social groups, volunteering and gardening, or even debt and housing advice.

support to find their way around the health and care system, helping connect them to the right services or professionals at the right time. Care Coordinators act as a central point of contact to ensure support is available to help people manage their care.

They can help by: • Preparing you for upcoming conversations about your health and care.

• Monitoring your health and care needs and

responding to any changes.

• Supporting you to understand and manage your care.

• Social Prescribing Link Workers: Social Prescribing Link Workers help people to focus on their social, emotional, and physical wellbeing, working alongside their medical team. They give people time to focus on what matters to them, helping to connect them with local groups and services for a range of practical and emotional

They can help by: • Supporting you to manage your health and wellbeing.

• Giving you time to focus on what matters to you.

• Helping you to access support services and activities.

• Physiotherapists: Physiotherapists in general practice are experts in musculoskeletal conditions.

They can assess, diagnose and treat a range of complex muscle and joint conditions, reducing the likelihood of needing a referral to a hospital team. They can also arrange access to further treatment, investigations and specialists when needed.

They can help by: • Diagnosing and treating

muscular and joint conditions.

• Advising you how to manage your condition.

• Referring you on to specialist services.

• Clinical Pharmacists: Clinical Pharmacists at your GP Surgery are experts in medicines and can help people stay as well as possible. They can support those with long-term conditions like asthma, diabetes and high blood pressure, or anyone taking multiple medicines, to make sure their medication is working.

Many Clinical Pharmacists can also prescribe medicines.

They can help by: • Reviewing your medicines.

• Agreeing and making changes to your prescriptions.

• Advising about medicines and possible side effects.

“I’d highly recommend contacting your GP via their online patient services” Hanna Ansari, 48, suffers from angina, hypertension, chronic asthma and hypothyroidism ensuring she takes her repeat medications regularly is vital for her wellbeing.

On her journey back home from a two-week holiday, she unfortunately lost the bag carrying her medicines. “I was so worried about my medicines as when I’d left for holiday I only had enough at home to last me a few days for when I got back.

“I decided the best and easiest way to solve the problem was to contact my GP Practice via their online patient system. It was really simple to fill in. Within a couple of hours, the GP Surgery Clinical Pharmacist called me and we went through the problem I faced, and was prescribed all the medicines I needed until my next repeat prescription.

“I was so pleasantly surprised how simple and quick the entire process had been. I’d highly recommend contacting your GP via their online patient system, rather than calling and holding on in a queue via phone.”

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Interfaith service at Manchester Cathedral celebrates love, peace, diversity and unity On the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's 154th birth anniversary, an interfaith service was held at the historic Manchester Cathedral, bringing together people from diverse faiths and backgrounds to celebrate the universal values of love, peace, and unity. The interfaith service transcended religious boundaries with attendees from various faith-based organisations, government officials, community leaders and individuals from all walks of life.

Over 350 representatives from Afro-Caribbean, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh communities came together to offer prayers and reflections, highlighting the common threads of love and peace that unite humanity.

The interfaith service was sponsored by the Kamani family in memory of their grandfather Bhanji Khanji Kamani (1888-1979).

Paying tribute to Gandhi's enduring legacy, Aadit Virani, Chair of Executive Committee, Shrimad Rajchandra Mission

Neetal Parekh (BBC Lancashire & B4U TV) laying flowers at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi LtoR – Rt. Hon. Navendu Mishra MP, Bharat & Sonal Mehta (SRMD UK), Vikram Kumar Doraiswami (High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom), Mukesh Mehta (SRMD UK), Dr Shashank Vikram, Consul General, CGI, Birmingham

Dharampur UK (SRMD UK) shared, “Gandhi's approach to religion was marked by progressiveness and a profound willingness to learn from other faiths. This very attribute makes him an extraordinary role model for the multicultural and multiethnic community of Manchester.”

High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mary-Liz Walker JP DL said, “The times are different, but the social issues remain. We can however carry forward Gandhi’s legacy and the things that he did when he was alive. It is his ideals that

continue to appeal to the people of all generations.”

Cllr Yasmine Dar, the Lord Mayor of Manchester said, “We all belong to the human race and together we must be the leaders of change and walk on the path of peace to bring communities together and end violence.”

Rogers Govender MBE, Dean of Manchester Cathedral said, “It is our duty to protect the rights and dignity of all human beings and ensure they are cared for, respected and honoured as children made in the image of God.”

The event commenced with laying of flowers at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi outside Manchester Cathedral followed by soulstirring cultural performances, including a melodic performance by ShowCaseUs, a harmonious rendition by the Greenbank Preparatory School Choir, a powerful dedication from Lucy Veighey and mesmerising violin and viola performance by Saanvi Reddy and Imani Soren-Fahy.

An expressive dance dedication

by Year 13 Girls from Cheadle Hulme School and a devotional kathak dance performance by Krishna Panchmatia, showcased the richness of diverse cultures while reinforcing the message of love and unity.

Birmingham University reveals Indian Cold Chain Partnership team A collaborative effort involving the Centre for Sustainable Cooling (CSC), the University of Birmingham, the United Nations Environment

Programme (UNEP), and various Indian state government and industry partners has progressed to the next stage of the UK-India partnership. An expert team has

been appointed to oversee this initiative.

The Telangana Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold-Chain, as well as the Haryana Centre of Excellence for Crop Postharvest Management and Sustainable Cold-Chain, were established to encourage innovation and accelerate the implementation of energy-efficient refrigeration systems for food and vaccine supply chains throughout India. The newly appointed team, consisting of India Lead Avinash Verma, Telangana and Global Logistics Lead Jacob Kurian, Haryana and Post-Harvest Management Lead Anant Shukla, vaccine cold-chain expert researcher Aneeka Kamal Canchi, and technology expert researcher Anil Kumar, will play a crucial

role in advancing these projects.

This team's responsibilities include developing a comprehensive project plan and coordinating with the India Centres of Excellence.

They will engage with strategic partners from government, industry, academia, and civil society. The program is a joint initiative involving the Centre for Sustainable Cooling (CSC), the University of Birmingham, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and local state governments and industry partners.

Paresh Rughani honoured with the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award International motivational speaker Paresh Rughani was invited as a guest speaker and honoured with the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award during the Global Peace Summit held at the University of Oxford. The summit was attended by global leaders, entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

What’s your definition of justice?

Rohit Vadhwana

S

ometimes we wonder if justice is an absolute and definitive concept. But it is not. The meaning of justice changes from society to society, and from time to time. Something that is just and acceptable at a time in one society may not be so at another time in the same society.

Similarly, what is prevalent practice in one part of the world today may be frowned upon, or even be punishable in another corner of the world. How do we know what is just and what is not? What is the definition of justice?

We are all babies of our time. Only a few people can live out of and ahead of their time. Others are influenced and molded by the time and place they are living in, having their thought process and concepts shaped by their environment. People cannot think beyond immediate social norms, and so their idea of justice is what is prevailing in their surroundings. However, a few great individuals have been ahead of their time. Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, and Abraham Lincoln are such examples. They swam against the tide. Their thoughts have changed the social norms and have created new traditions, and new customs, and carved out new space for the emergence of social norms.

"Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are," remarked Benjamin Franklin. True justice, it seems, transcends time and place, urging us to not only introspect but also to act, ensuring that the arc of the moral universe, as Martin Luther King Jr. said, bends towards it.

Are you one of the masses who belong to their environment and accept the traditions or belong to the class that can influence and shape the just social order? It depends on your idea of justice. If you can think and examine the customs you are living in, perhaps your horizon will broaden and you will make the system more just than you found it.

One's ability to see through the future is important. If one can do so, it is extremely impactful for determining the thought process one will have. Either we are subjected to the thoughts of others or we do subject others to our own thinking. Either way, our understanding of justice matters.

If you have no independent assessment of this concept, you are bound to be the one who follows others.

In every generation, some new concepts emerge and prevail. Acceptance or rejection of them in the wider world will be affected by the education system and social order of the time. If it is a free-thinking society, perhaps it will be shaped in a much broader and more logical way, but in the absence of it, it may remain much narrower. There was a time when the earth was believed to be flat and challenging this idea might have been termed unjust.

So, where do you stand amidst this continuum? Are you a reflection of your surroundings, a mirror that simply reflects back what it sees? Or are you among those rare individuals who not only question the status quo but also possess the audacity to mold it? This distinction boils down to our own comprehension of justice. It is about challenging norms, questioning traditions, and broadening one's horizons. A critical introspection is key. By examining the world around us, and understanding its implications for the future, we are in a better position to either shape others' perspectives or be shaped by them.

(Expressed opinions are personal)

Anoopam Mission: Satvik food with spiritual Essence

LtoR: Bhanuben Nakarja, Charruben Jasani, Meghna Ardhvaryu, Minuben Patel, CB Patel, Rekhaben Patel, Trisnaben Patel, Pushpaben Mistry, and Harish Nakarja

The Anoopam Mission undertakes its spiritual philosophy through a fusion of 'bhakti yoga' and 'karma yoga'.

It believes in servingr r God by serving humanity. In the divine presence of Param Pujya Sahebji, various religious/spiritual events are

going on and these events are followed by Satvik food.

The volunteers in the kitchen work dedicatedly to serve the food with spiritual essence. CB Patel visited the kitchen and felt honoured by meeting the volunteers and viewing the cleanliness and management.

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Teen prodigy who is a global force for environmental and heritage change Jyotsna Shah Arya Chavda, at the age of 14, attended the International Conclave 2023 from September 19 to 21 as the UK's youngest representative. She takes great pride in her rich Indian heritage and is resolute in her commitment to addressing environmental challenges.

City, My Heritage,' in front of a gathering of 2500 diplomats from 80 countries at the 43rd World Heritage event.

After her presentation, Councillor Krupesh Hirani and Councillor Sunita Hirani congratulated Arya.

They stressed that safeguarding the environment is a collective responsibility, urging everyone to sup-

L-R: Kantaben Hirani, Cllr Sunitaben Hirani, Cllr Jayantibhai Patel, Laxmiben Vyas (President, Hindu Forum of Europe), Cllr Krupesh Hirani, Cllr Kantibhai Rabadia, Cllr Vipinbhai Mithani, Arya Chavda, Vejibhai Vekaria, Vasantbhai Bhadra (President, New Mumbai Builders Association), Dr. Kirti Patel (East London), Ravjibhai Hirani, Govindbhai Patel (Trustee, Swaminarayan Gurukul Family UK)

During her visit, a seminar and dinner event took place on September 23, 2023, at Canton Methodist Church in Canton. The event was sponsored by Mr. Ravjibhai Hirani and Kantaben and skillfully moderated by Mr. Veljibhai Vekaria, former President of SKLPC, active member of the Hindu Forum of Britain, and Swaminarayan Gurukul UK member. The event also honored CB Patel, Editor-in-Chief of Gujarat Samachar, for his social contributions.

Arya's remarkable journey includes authoring 10 books at a very young age, with UNESCO as her publisher. She also generously donates the proceeds from her book sales to charities supporting underprivileged children.

At just 9 years old, Arya had the incredible opportunity to share the stage with the Director General of UNESCO. She read from her book, 'Ahmedabad, My

port this cause.

During her address to the gathering, Jyotsanaben asked her a question about the amount of time she dedicates to her daily research and the wellspring of motivation for her work.

Her response was, "I allocate at least an hour to research every day, whether I'm in a car or on a flight."

Arya credited her parents, Dr. Hitesh, a gastrosurgeon, and her mother, Rishika, an architect, for inspiring her passion.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Arya joined the "Share Our Heritage" campaign's 'Little Artist Exhibition,' promoting cultural appreciation among children from 55 countries.

She also spoke to students from over 350 colleges and 75 universities at the Environment Youth Forum, earning recognition for her speech at the 2022 National Youth Parliament, displaying both humility and confidence.

Nagrecha brothers donate £100,000 to the NHS Nagrecha Charitable Trust make money but the important organised a special musical part is how to use money for event- Badi Door Se Aaye Hain the betterment of society. They on 1 October 2023 at Hariben know how to make money, how Bachubhai Nagrecha Hall, to respect parents and how to Leyton Road. Apart from the spend money. At the time of melodious songs, the event witDiwali, many people will be nessed a remarkable donation inspired to do more spiritual of £100,000 to the NHS for and philanthropic work.

CB Patel handed over the cheque of £100,000 to the NHS team. medical research and develop£100,000 is a big amount and From Left to Right: Dr Voo, Hasubhai Nagrecha, Dr Reid, CB, ment of treatments. will give a boost to the gigantic Professor Bomanji, Vinubhai Nagrecha, Umiben Radia efforts of the NHS.” CB Patel, Publisher and possible effort to strengthen our culWell-known singer Abhijit Rao Editor-in-Chief of Asian Voice and ture, community and the Nation we who is also called the voice of Rafi, Gujarat Samachar was the chief guest live in. NHS staff work very hard for us.

Veda Nellan known as the voice of Lata at the event. The cheque for £100,000 It is our duty to support the support and versatile singer Mitali Nag presentwas handed over to the NHS team by system of the Nation.” ed Bollywood songs and bhajans. The CB. Professor Jamshed Bomanji, CB Patel said, “Vinubhai, Hasubhai hall was packed with more than 800 Clinical Lead and head of the Clinical and Umiben are very unique people. In people as audience and the melodious Department, Institute of Nuclear this country, I know many people but songs connected them with the golden Medicine, at UCLH NHS Foundation they are the only people who have the era taking them down the memory Trust along with Dr Voo and Dr Reid Temple of their mother and father. lane. were present to receive the cheque.

This is not common; this is very imporShri Shirdi Saibaba Temple’s main Vinodrai Bachubhai Nagrecha poptant for our children; they should priest Dilip Sulakhe Ji Maharaj was ularly known in the community as remember what is heritage. People especially present on this occasion.

Vinubhai said, “We always make every

Are you a ‘can I borrow your specs’ -er?

Two Indian teachers named finalists for 2023 Global Teacher Prize Deep Narayan Nayak, a teacher at Tilka Manjhi Adivasi Free Primary School in Jamuria, Asansol, West Bengal, and Hari Krishna Patacharu, an English teacher at ZPHS Ilavaram in Bhattiprolu Mandal, Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh, have both been named among the top 50 finalists for the prestigious $1-million Global Teacher Prize 2023.

These two Indian educators stood out among over 7,000 nominations and applications from individuals in 130 countries worldwide. The Global Teacher Prize, now in its eighth year, aims to recognize an exceptional teacher who has made a remarkable contribution to the teaching profession and highlight the crucial role teachers play in society.

Maybe it’s time for an eye test Book online at specsavers.co.uk

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Be a part of our Diwali magazine!

This Diwali, you can share your thoughts and experiences of celebrating and preserving “Indian cultural heritage in the UK” by submitting an article for ABPL’s annual Diwali magazine. Interested folks must email their write-up in not more than 200 words by 29 October, 2023 to shefali.saxena@abplgroup.com.

Is PM Sunak an asset to the nation?

No one should doubt that PM Rishi Sunak is a brilliant economist, a self-made millionaire and a very good orator.

But is he a clever, ruthless, cunning politician who could utter unbelievable lies and get away with it, as was the case with Tony Blair? Blair is one of the most successful Labour politicians who fooled the nation and dragged us in a war with Iraq, a war neither justified and necessary nor in our best interest. It was a personal vendetta between Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussain and the US President George Bush, fighting for personal prestige. He also gave away £9 billion rebate Lady Thatcher had negotiated with the EU, using her handbag as a weapon, in the vain hope of becoming EU’s first president. It was never on the card!

The West, especially the US, used Saddam to subjugate Iran, an upcoming Shia nation while Iraq was ruled by a Sunni dictator, nothing common between two ambitious, oil-rich nations, fighting for supremacy in the muddled, misguided world of Middle East.

I feel, in the long run, PM Sunak could turn around our slagging, uninspiring economy. It has been neglected for decades by politicians who are more interested in stealing the limelight on the international stage. It's as if we are still a superpower with the responsibility to police the world, rather than concentrating on the home front. We should follow in the footsteps of Germany and Japan, who, although they lost WW2, now lead the world on the economic front, with the highest living standards that one can only envy.

Only problem in the hole in PM’s armoury is the impatience of British people who are more interested in tax cuts, borrow now and pay later policy. It is the gospel of capitalism! Even Ms Truss was ready to borrow £45 billion to give away in tax cuts, mainly to rich Conservative supporters and nearly crashed the economy, and was humiliated and forced to resign after just few weeks in office. Yet, she is still a darling of the Conservative right wing. This shows where our priorities are concentrated.

One weapon in PM’s armoury is to be Good Samaritan and target “tax cut” for the elderly who are more likely to vote than the younger generation. With interest rates on the rise on savings, many elderly who did not pay tax until now will be drawn into the tax net, unless the PM gives them a break by raising the free pay allowance which has been frozen for the last few years or better still making interest tax free, at least for a standard rate of taxpayers.

Bhupendra M Gandhi

Warning for India It is really disturbing to hear that as of Sunday 08.10.2023 more than 600 Israelis have been killed and more than 100 have been taken hostage by Hamas Militants. This is a very well-coordinated and planned attack on Israel.

As the fight goes on, it is difficult to believe how one of the most advanced spying agencies, Mossad failed to get any advance information or a clue of such a massive operation.

It will take months or years to get a complete picture of what went wrong. There might be foreign powers behind the attack. In other words, this is like 9/11 attack of the US. India needs to monitor the situation very closely and the modus operandi used by Hamas because as a country India has neighbouring countries that are waiting for the right opportunity to attack and China may support them. It is more important for Indians and its internal as well as external security agencies in the wake of the Cricket World Cup which is going on in India as well as ensuing festival seasons like Navaratri followed by Diwali where more people will be together.

India has more resources and military infrastructure to fight the enemy but a surprise attack is more likely due to the festival season and the general election in 2024.

I am sure the security agencies and the police will be alert and more vigilant but ordinary citizens should also be proactive and report any suspected activities to the authority to make sure that India as a country remain safe and progressive.

Hitesh Hingu

KAPIL’S

The Big Letter Write Campaign – can you help?

I’m writing on behalf of a cancer support charity, From Me to You, to ask the people of London to take 10 minutes out of their day to write a letter to someone fighting cancer. During October, the charity runs its Big Letter Write Campaign, encouraging as many people as possible to put pen to paper and help cancer sufferers in the area who may be feeling isolated and lonely.

From Me to You sends 10,000 letters out every year and after a 25% increase in requests in recent months, it’s urging everyone in the area to get involved and help it be there for those who need a reminder that they are not alone.

As a cancer survivor myself, I understand first-hand the loneliness and isolation that cancer can bring. Even with a close support network around me, I felt increasingly disconnected from society. Whilst people’s lives continued around me, mine ground to a halt, with treatment taking over.

On one of my many trips to the hospital, I was handed a letter by a nurse – a letter that had been donated through From Me to You. It offered me an escape from my treatment that day; taking me into someone else’s life, a life without cancer. I was so grateful to the person who had taken time out to write it and found myself re-reading it many times.

A letter is a simple gift, but one that offers connection, kindness and joy. The charity has a Donate A Letter programme, where you can donate anonymous letters to them. They offer lots of help and support, including free online workshops to help with writer’s block and a pack that can be sent out to help get you started.

If you’d like to be involved, From Me to You would love to hear from you. They provide all the information and inspiration needed to start writing. Visit www.frommetoyouletters.co.uk to request your starter pack. And if you don’t think writing is for you, but you want to help the cause, they are always grateful for stamp donations, or money to buy stamps, so that they can send letters to those who need them.

If you are currently fighting cancer and would like to receive a letter, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with From Me to You via their website.

(All letters are read by From Me to You volunteers before giving out to cancer patients) Colleen

What's in a name?

The name ‘India’, evokes a lot of respect globally and has an indelible “brand value” in the comity of nations. As far as Indians are concerned, India is Bharat and Bharat is India.

If we start changing names, there will be no end to it.

Like the English language, the word ‘India’ has taken deep roots in Indian society and culture and every Indian identifies with it. If we start cancelling everything with foreign roots, we will have to stop drinking tea and eating potatoes and chillies.

Can Indians live without tea, potatoes and chillies? In the same way, Indians can’t live without “India”.

We have a 76-year-long history of internalising the word ‘India’ as a free, independent, diverse, multilingual nation. The word ‘India’ is as foreign as the word ‘Hindu’.

Both were coined by outsiders. Both are etymologically said to refer to the river Indus, or Sindhu, now mostly in Pakistan. What can be so bad about being named after a river, especially one that today Indians have a mythical, emotional attachment?

If we had only one name — India —, there could even be an argument about changing it. But we already have both names. It is a tribute to our ability to live with multiple identities, even if they are sometimes in conflict.

The name “India” has been mentioned in the Old Testament in the Book of Esther of the Holy Bible (Chapter 1, verse 1). It was not given to us by the British government — “These events happened in the days of King Xerxes, who reigned over 127 provinces stretching from India1 to Ethiopia…”. This book was written 20,000 years before Jesus Christ was born.

Kapil Dudakia

KHICHADI

From Kashmir to Israel The Unrelenting Scourge of Islamists The hate filled cries of the Islamists ‘Ralive, Tsalive, or Galive’ (convert, leave or die) echoed in Jammu and Kashmir (India). It was 1991 when thousands of hatefilled butchers of madnessattacked Hindus in Jammu and Kashmir, killing, raping, and burning everything in their path. The failure of the then Indian Government to protect its own citizens will never be forgotten.

Those who were murdered in cold blood have still not secured any justice. The women and young girls raped bear their trauma to this date. Those who fled live in hope that maybe now, finally under PM Modi, the situation might be safe for them to return.

Forward some 20 years and in 2023 we are now witnessing the Palestinian terrorists follow the same pattern. Their intent is, and has always been, to wipe out every Jew from Israel. In the attack we saw them killing hundreds indiscriminately. More than 250 music loving youngsters wiped out when they were at a concert that was meant to be full of joy and happiness. They kidnapped many women and took them back to Gaza; one does not have to think hard to know what these monsters must be doing to them. The attacks continued intowns and on the streets. They went from one home to another, spraying bullets at everyone. Their intent was to kill. They did not spare women, the elderly, or the children.

Unlike 1991, these Islamists have made a huge error.

They have dared to attack Israel. And one thing I do about our Jewish friends, they will enter this arena on a war footing, and they will decimate Gaza to the Middle Ages. They will seek out every Hamas leader and liquidate them. Thousands of Palestinians will pay a heavy price. A price they brought upon themselves by their silent support for Hamas. There is no point Palestinians crying now given it has been their implicit silent support of Hamas over decades that has created this unsurmountable problem.

The world (most of it) made its position clear; they were with Israel. Of course,the known few rogue states like Qatar, Pakistan, Iran, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabiasupported these hated filled monsters in Gaza.

There is a lesson in this for India as well, our newly acquired friends in the Middle East, one cannot blindly trust them for they have a track record that proves their insincerity.

Coming back to the UK, whilst the Labour leader Keir Starmer came out in favour of Israel, it was clear that a sizeable proportion of his own party are with Hamas terrorists. In an astonishing moment, Labour MP Apsana Begum was photographed standing in support of the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign – and that it turns out was at the Labour Party conference venue.

I am of course not surprised, after all, it was Keir who promoted many Muslim MPs to his front bench who are well known anti-India campaigners. These same MPs are also supportive of Palestine and tend to be anti-Israel. And add to this mix those Labour MPs who are showing open support for the Khalistaniterrorists, and you begin to see the trend. This party has recruited MPs who are sympathisers of extremists and terrorists.

If they can be so brazen in their behaviour during their own party conference, can you imagine what these rogues would do should Labour ever get into power?

I am pleased to note that our PM Rishi Sunak came out quickly in favour of Israel. As did PM Modi. Just imagine if this country had elected Jeremy Corbyn.

The Unrelenting Scourge of Islamists will never cease. It has not for hundreds of years. Anyone who thinks, or believes, that there can be peace with them is living in cloud cuckoo land.

Jubel D'Cruz

Water bottles People who are in the move, in weddings and events common man consumes bottled water which can be used till 5-6 months from date of manufacture. What preservatives are added to it. How safe is it to consume? Has there been a study on effects of prolonged consumption of bottled water.

TS Karthik

We are grateful to all letter writers for more and more versatile letters well within word limit.

Please keep contributing as always.

If you are new, then write to Shefali at shefali.saxena@abplgroup.com

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Subhash V Thakrar

Dawn of a new ABPL strides in delivering not only weekly news but also a fantastic service to society.

Over sian Voice and Gujarat £500,000 has been Samachar concluded the celedonated by ABPL and brations of 50 years of service Karma Yog Foundation to society with a special dinner at the over the last 50 years. historic House of Lords. This occaThe group has been sion was marked with the launch of a instrumental in various unique book called Eyes of campaigns, including Tomorrow. the survival of ISKON Seated: LtoR: Aparna Madhvani, Hasubhai Nagrecha, The chief guest was Lord Gadhia mandir, direct flights to Vinubhai Nagrecha, Umiben Radia. and the event also saw the presence of Ahmedabad and the Standing: LtoR: Shrai Madhvani, Kaushik Desai, Lord Popat, Lord Loomba and Lord opening of other Deepikaben Desai, Kirankumar Teli, CB Patel, Rishi Patel Billimoria. mandirs.

The event was also used by CB to set the direction for the ABPL group. As one of his confidants, he has been a deep thinker of how he wanted to ensure the future of ABPL to continue to benefit society in prosperity.

Such is his magnanimity in L to R: Rikin Patel, Kavita Thakrar Patel, Mukesh L to R: Merul Patel, Lord Gadhia, Shrai Madhvani, doing good for society!

Kapashi, Niraj Sutaria, Harshil Shah, Moxit Mehta, Aparna Madhvani, Lord Popat, Pradip Dhamecha, Rakhee Ditta, Bipinbhai Kantaria, Bhartiben Kantaria The idea of transferring Vinaben Dhamecha, Vinubhai Nagrecha, Standing: CB Patel, Kishore Parmar.

Hasubhai Nagrecha the business to a charitable trust is unprecedented as We are taken by CB Patel along Eyes of Tomorrow has original not many commercially minded peothe memory lane of his life experimessages from Prime Minister Rishi ple would be able to do this. This is ences. His reconnecting with his Sunak, Prime Minister Modi and truly remarkable and sets in stone the father, who had become a sanyasi other heads of community organisadeep thinking of CB’s mind, which (monk) and how his mother made tions. More interestingly, the book underlines the character of someone huge sacrifices are moving accounts has unique articles authored by looking at the interests of society of CB’s life and perhaps are public prominent experts of the society. The more than himself. announcements for the first time and theme of the book is futuristic, where CB has been hugely successful in nowhere before. his leadership and this has also hapexperts have written about how they CB Patel is now a healthy 87pened with great support from his see their specialist sectors in 25 years' years-old and still fully active in busifamily, especially Pushpaben, time. This makes it an interesting ness, with a fantastic sense of Sarojben, Merul and Urja. read where we are invited to take a humour. His leadership and vision I certainly predict the dawn of a ride with the imagination of the has enabled ABPL to make great new ABPL. future.

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Britain restricts AI summit guest list to 100 The guest list for Britain's upcoming global artificial intelligence (AI) summit will be limited to 100 politicians, business leaders, and academics.

Notably, several prominent AI startups, including Faculty and Graphcore, are expected to be excluded, according to one of the event's lead organizers.

The summit, scheduled for November 1 and 2 at Bletchley Park, aims to test Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's belief that Britain can take a lead in regulating the rapidly advancing AI technology. This ambition has garnered criticism

from some quarters.

While the official guest list remains undisclosed, attendees are expected to include U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and senior executives from major tech firms like Alphabet (GOOGL.O).

Writing on social media platform X, coorganiser Matt Clifford said: "There are a tonne of trade offs in planning a summit like this. We've chosen to have a very small, very focused summit which aims to get substantive outcomes where every attendee is an active participant."

London borough named UK's top place for family living New research conducted by home security firm ADT has identified the prime location for raising a family in the UK, and surprisingly, it's situated within the capital city.

After a comprehensive analysis that considered factors such as school quality, housing prices, public transportation costs, and crime rates across the country, ADT has named Waltham

Forest, a London borough just northeast of Central London, as the top choice for family living.

Waltham Forest achieved an impressive overall rating of 7.23 out of 10 in ADT's "family safety score." It ranked among the top 15 local authorities with the lowest burglary and crime rates, ranked seventh for school quality, and tied for sixth place for access to green spaces.

“Baat karne ke baad, dil thoda halka ho jata hai“ Having a chat to someone can make all the difference to how you’re feeling.

Volunteers are available to provide friendly phone calls and can even help with essential shopping and prescription delivery, if you need a bit of extra help.

This is a free service available to your community and you don’t need to be referred by a doctor.

Aaj he call karein and speak to one of our operators who will talk you through what support is available.

Call: 0808 196 3646 Or Search ‘Volunteer Responders’ online Royal Voluntary Service is a registered charity 1015988 (England and Wales) & SC038924 (Scotland).

09:52

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Can Labour reset its relation with India?

Continued from page 1

The common chord between both parties in this year’s conference agenda was - the cost-of-living crisis and reviving the British economy, but what was uncommon was the Labour Party’s discriminatory behaviour towards international journalists, agencies and wires who tried to cover the conference.

While Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer was showered with glitters at the conference, Asian Voice through Foreign Press Association (FPA) sources can confirm that journalists representing international media in the UK including Indians, were not allowed to enter the Labour conference. Though the organisers claimed this was due to “limited capacity”, the journalist community doesn’t believe that this was just a “coincidence”.

With its track record, this is a possible indicator that foreign relations under the Party will Labour continue to suffer, especially with India.

The party’s engagement with the Indian community or related media has been bare minimum for the longest time.

Other than individual events, such as on Diwali, Indian media, has been kept in the dark, especially as pro-Azad Kashmir and Khalistani supporters have been allegedly identified among Labour Party members and Parliamentarians.

Relations of Tories and Labour with India Conservatives from David Cameron to Boris Johnson and now Rishi Sunak have maintained close ties with India in some way or form. However, Labour has been lagging behind. With this recent incident of not allowing not just Indian but other foreign journalists in their party conference, Labour has lost marks and added an impediment to strengthening its ties with foreign countries. The Labour Party has time and again accepted that it is trying to resolve internal conflicts within the party and has asserted a positive approach towards nurturing UK-India ties in the future.

Sir Keir Starmer recently said “a strategic partnership with India will be key” to a future Labour government in the UK. But Sunak is reportedly going one step further and due to lock the UK-India FTA, a rather historic one towards the end of October with Indian PM Narendra Modi. The difference between saying and doing is right now in the Conservative party’s court, and it’ll be instrumental to see how Starmer (should Labour win) nurtures his ties with Modi and India.

Keir Starmer had promised to reset relations between the Labour Party and India after years of tension between the two. The Labour leader said on record earlier in June 2023 that his party had made mistakes in its approach to relations with the world’s most populous country, and that it would seek closer ties if elected to power next year.

Labour’s reputation in Delhi and among British Indian voters in the UK has slipped in recent years, not least because of the support by

some in the party for the independence of the disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Some UK Indians have also complained that the party has focused more on poorer inner-city Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities than on them.

Sir Starmer told those attending the UK-India Week conference in June: “In the past Labour gave the impression we could only see the lives of people in communities who needed our support. But my Labour party understands that what working people in every community need is success, aspiration and security.”

He added: “There are lots of issues in the Labour Party where, over the last two years, we have

Sir Keir Starmer covered in glitter

openly taken the decision to change our party to look out to the world in a different way – and to recognise when it comes to India, what an incredible, powerful, important country India is … and to ensure that we have the right relationship as we go forward.”

Labour's relationship with the Indian community and Indian voters has faced challenges recently. This is due to India's increasingly nationalistic policies, while Labour has been accused of showing partiality to Pakistan in the Kashmir dispute. With 1.7 million British Indians, one of the largest minority ethnic groups in the UK, they are a potentially significant voting bloc in swing constituencies.

In 2019, Labour drew criticism from Indian groups for passing an emergency motion at its annual conference, advocating for international observers in the disputed territory of Kashmir, which India and Pakistan both claim. The party later issued a letter clarifying its stance, emphasising that it would not take sides in the dispute.

Conservatives on the other hand have been diplomatic about commenting on India’s ties with other nations and its stance on its internal conflicts while being vocal about issues such as Ukraine and openly criticising Russia and Putin while India juggled its diplomatic ties with the Soviets amid massive criticism.

Renewal and stability The recent Conservative Party conference, held in Manchester, marked several crucial announcements and promises in anticipation of the upcoming 2024 general elections. The event featured notable attendees, including members of the Conservative Friends of India, Former Home Secretary Priti Patel and current Home Secretary Suella Braverman, and High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami.

Meanwhile, the Labour Party conference in Liverpool presented

CB Patel with Sir Keir Starmer

a vision of renewal and change under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer.

He acknowledged challenges like the cost-of-living crisis, attributing it to Brexit, pandemic lockdowns, and global instability. Starmer promised economic renewal through progressive policies, envisioning a "decade of national renewal." Labour aims to mend societal divisions, invest in infrastructure and public services, and position itself as the party of hope and transformation.

Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves outlined Labour's economic strategy, echoing Boris Johnson's approach while emphasizing fiscal responsibility and the streamlining planning system for energy and housing projects. This shift represents a departure from the economic policies during Jeremy Corbyn's leadership.

Virendra Sharma MP

However, Conservative Chancellor Jeremy Hunt criticized Reeves for her "fairy tale" economics, expressing concerns about increased borrowing, inflation, mortgage rates, debt, and reduced growth. Hunt advocated for long-term decision-making to address inflation and promote growth. Notably, former Bank of England governor Mark Carney endorsed Rachel Reeves as the next chancellor.

Additionally, economists have warned of a looming third wave of inflation due to rising oil prices following the recent Hamas attack on Israel. The surge in Brent crude oil prices to $89 a barrel raises concerns about potential Middle East tensions, sanctions, and supply shortages, further impacting the global economy.

Speaking to Asian Voice, Labour Party MP Virendra Sharma said, “The Labour Party has shown it is ready for government. Keir, Angela, Rachel and the whole front bench have a plan for government a plan to get Britain growing again.

From investing in housing, green energy and growth, where Tories duck decisions, Labour takes them for the long term. With a Labour government we’ll have an NHS fit for the 21st Century, trains that run and cleaner rivers. I’ve been delighted by what I have seen,

commitments to keep us safe at home with more police on the streets, and an armed forces to be proud of.”

Diversity Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2019 formed the UK's most ethnically diverse Cabinet to date.

Key appointments include Sajid Javid as Chancellor, Priti Patel as Home Secretary, Alok Sharma as International Development Secretary, Rishi Sunak as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, James Cleverley as Party chairman, and Kwasi Kwarteng as Minister for business, energy, and industrial strategy. These appointments represent a notable increase, with Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic

Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservatives in the forthcoming election, scheduled before January 2025.

Labour has maintained a consistent lead in polls since the beginning of 2022, largely attributed to public discontent with Boris Johnson's handling of "Partygate" and backlash against Liz Truss's mini-budget. This decline in Conservative popularity is significant, as it brings them to their lowest point in opinion polls since the 2019 general election.

The contrast between early 2020, when the Conservatives enjoyed robust public support following Johnson's election victory, and the current scenario is

Conservative Party Conference 2023

(BAME) Ministers now constituting 18% of the cabinet.

This statistic stands in contrast to the fact that there have only been five full cabinet members from such backgrounds in history. It is worth noting that 14% of England and Wales' population belongs to ethnic minority groups, as per the 2011 census.

Moreover, within Johnson's 33member cabinet, 24% of positions, including non-full members, were held by women. PM Sunak’s cabinet continues to reflect that diversity in some of the key portfolios in the hands of BAME members. The Conservative Party conference exhibited the same diversity in its various snippets and photos. However, the Labour Party despite being diverse in its own capacity did not translate that into its conferences, where the majority of the people who spoke were not people of colour, the exception being Mayor Sadiq Khan who lauded the members from the front row. Yes, Sunak may not be the ‘elected’ prime minister of the citizens of the country, but representation at every level has seen a new dawn since the ensemble of this diverse cabinet.

Labour on the other hand, while having great ties with the ethnic minority communities, at some places better than Conservatives did not translate that into its party conference. Therefore, whether or not the Labour Party will carry forward Britain’s flag of multiculturalism ahead or not if it comes to power, is still debatable.

The make-or-break deal In the lead-up to the upcoming general election, the Conservatives are facing a challenging political landscape while Labour maintains a substantial lead. According to The Telegraph's aggregated polls, Sir Keir Starmer's Labour Party is poised to secure almost double the vote share compared to Prime

Rachel Reeves with Sir Keir Starmer

stark. During the initial stages of the pandemic, the nation rallied behind the government, bolstering their approval ratings. However, this support waned as dissatisfaction grew with the government's management of the pandemic, particularly during the second national lockdown in England in late 2020. The successful vaccine rollout and easing of Covid restrictions in 2021 briefly restored public confidence, with voting intentions reaching their peak during that summer.

Labour's prospects are also tied to the outcome in Scotland. A strong showing there would reduce their need to win as many seats in England and Wales, potentially eliminating the argument that a Labour government would depend on SNP support.

During India Week, Sir Starmer had gone on record to say, “We have used the word reset before, this is what I mean by saying resetting relationship, which recognises where we are now, rather than defining ourselves by the past.” Going by the recent treatment of the foreign press, perhaps it's time for Labour to ‘reset’ its relations with international journalists before the race to Downing Street is lost or won.

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Being divorced doesn’t make you any less of a parent Shefali Saxena

to be the union of two families, and their communities, Ayesha Vardag, the founder rather than just of two peoand President of Vardags, ple. Consequently, many rose to fame in 2010 when remain in individuals she won a high-profile, landunhappy marriages to avoid mark case which made letting down their loved prenuptial agreements legalones. For women in particuly enforceable in England lar, this attitude puts them and Wales. at increased risk of domestic Since then she has been violence and intimate partat the forefront of some of ner violence, where they will the world’s biggest divorce often stay rather than cases, is featured regularly in endure the societal backlash the press, and was at the that comes with leaving. forefront of the campaign for And, as we’ve sadly seen Ayesha Vardag No Fault Divorce, which in recent news, the violence became law in 2022. that is still perpetrated against South Here’s her exclusive interview with Asian women who do choose to leave their Asian Voice. marriage is utterly frightening. There are some great charitable organisations that ell us about your background and family. exist in the UK to help women with this – but it’s something I feel we urgently need I grew up with my Scottish grandmothto come together and work to address as a er and English mother, spending my childcommunity, educating our sons and hood in Northumberland and Oxford daughters for a better and safer future. before studying at Cambridge. hat do you think is the general My father came from a royal Indian line of proud Pashtuns and had a distinguished perception and how would you want political heritage. My grandmother was to course correct it, if needed? from the Lodhi family which ruled Delhi There can be a perception, across all before the Mughals, and my grandfather communities, that divorce is often viewed had been a prominent pro-independence as a failure. While this is finally beginning politician during the Raj and was later to change, these deep-rooted sentiments exiled to Saudi Arabia where he had ambasremain. sadorial posts.

Being divorced doesn’t make you any My father met my mother, Barbara, less of a parent, it doesn’t mean you’ve early in his career while studying at ‘given up’ and you aren’t letting your famMagdalen College, Oxford. My mother, a ily or community down. In fact, once you very British, 22-year-old Northumbrian are out of a difficult marriage there’s every country girl, was working for the city treachance you’ll be better able to focus on the sury and living with an aunt. They went to important things in life – like being a parparties, danced until dawn and fell wildly in ent or progressing your career. love. She drove across Europe and the ivorces can be polarising towards a Middle East with him and married him en gender. What are your learnings there? route in Afghanistan. Once they arrived in Divorces can be polarising, but it isn’t Pakistan, things were not as he had told her really so much about gender as about the they would be. Stricken with amoebic struggle between power-holder and dysentery, pregnant, devastated and alone, dependant. That tends to come down to she borrowed money from one of his the wealth divide in high-net-worth friends and came home to her parents in divorces. In a lot of cases, though not all, it Northumberland to have me. is the husband who has the money, the My father went into politics in his own wife having given up their career to raise right and became the youngest senator the children and run the home. That is Pakistan had known. why it is important to get a prenuptial hat does it feel like to be the country’s agreement before you are married, when most sought-after divorce lawyer? you still love each other so that you can I work at the coal face of people’s lives, work out amicably how you would part if which can make the difference between you had to, and there isn’t any of the bitter them having a depressing, miserable and arguing in court over money and assets poor existence or having the positive future and who gets the house that can cause that everyone deserves. irrevocable rifts between parents and I started my firm in 2005, and over time, indeed between whole families. by dint of relentless work and an obsessive hat would be your advice to those drive for excellence, Vardags became who contemplate divorce but don’t known for fielding many of the best divorce seek it due to lack of information or lawyers in London: its court victories were courage? all over the international media and I was My advice is always to work on the dubbed the ‘Diva of Divorce’. marriage first, try to have an open and Gradually, I began to believe I had a honest conversation with your other half real place in the world and something that and ask questions to understand better I could contribute – moving the law forhow they are feeling. You can also try ward and making it work for the individumediation. If you decide after that converals who needed me to fight for them when sation that the best course of action is to their families fell into disarray. I underget a divorce and find a lawyer who will stood their sense of fear and loss, the ache guide you through the process, many of longing, the guilt of leaving a relationfirms will offer a consultation free of ship and the pain of being left, and what it charge and in this meeting, you can ask takes to rebuild oneself, survive and questions and find out more about the become strong. process and if you click with the lawyer. hat according to your learnings and It is important to be informed. Speak experience do South Asians need to with friends, and family and do some get right about understanding divorces online research, definitely don’t isolate better? yourself in times like this. Lean on your There is still a huge amount of stigma support network or find a therapist or around divorce in South Asian communicounsellor you can talk to. ties. If we just compare divorce rates, India hat would you tell young aspiring and Sri Lanka sit as low as 0.5% - 1% lawyers especially women about divorce rate, compared to the UK and America which is around 50%. pursuing a career in law?

In South Asian communities, divorce Stick at it. It is a fabulous career path is thought of as shameful and the implicathat allows you to make a meaningful diftions are far-reaching, as a marriage tends ference in the world.

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Sequel to 'Bend it Like Beckham' in development Renowned filmmaker Gurinder Chadha has announced her current project: a sequel to her iconic British film, "Bend it Like Beckham."

The original film, featuring Parminder Nagra, Archie Panjabi, Anupam Kher, Keira Knightley, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Juliet Stevenson, and Shaznay Lewis in key roles, followed the story of Jess Bhamra (Nagra), a British Indian girl pursuing a football career against parental objections, inspired by David Beckham.

Released in the United Kingdom in 2002, "Bend it Like Beckham" received critical acclaim and achieved remarkable success at the box office, becoming the highest-grossing football sports film.

Chadha shared that the Lionesses' historic performance at the World Cup served as her inspiration for the sequel. For those unfa-

Gurinder Chadha OBE

miliar, the England women's football team reached the prestigious tournament's final for the first time ever in August, although they ultimately lost to Spain in the final match.

Climate change expert wins Spinoza Prize 2023 Dr Joyeeta Gupta, a Professor of Environment and Development in the Global South at the University of Amsterdam (UvA), has been awarded the €1.5-million Spinoza Prize 2023, often referred to as the Dutch Nobel Prize. She was recognised for her significant contributions to the field of climate justice in the Netherlands.

The Dutch Research Council (NWO) selection comDr Joyeeta Gupta mittee commended Gupta's stitution.” research for its extensive interdisciplinary

scope and profound scientific impact. Gupta's work focuses on addressing climate change issues through effective governance.

Central to her research is the exploration of the interconnections between the climate crisis, global water challenges, potential solutions, and justice.

She says: “What I want to try to do is ultimately work towards a global con-

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Anusha Singh Deepika Arwind, an internationally acclaimed playwright and theatre-maker hailing from Bangalore, has gained recognition for her work spanning India, the USA, and Europe, amassing accolades and award nominations along the way. She is now making her British debut with "Phantasmagoria," a gripping psychological horror tailored for the contemporary era.

In this production, Arwind delves into the perils of divisive politics, populism, and the uncontrolled influence of social media.

"Phantasmagoria" skilfully juxtaposes the terror of raising one's voice against the dread of remaining silent, revealing how fear can be manufactured and manipulated, leading to chilling consequences.

In an exclusive conversation with Asian Voice, Deepika Arwind delves into the intricacies of "Phantasmagoria" and its profound themes. an you share the inspiration behind "Phantasmagoria" and what motivated you to tackle the themes of divisive politics, populism, and social media in your play?

I was curious about what happens when you're confronted with 'the other', the person you most disagree with in a sense, because this inability to really talk to each other was a worldwide phenomenon that's emblematic of the last 10 years, I'd say.

I think this distance was the effect of the polarisations and threats that have been created for the benefit of certain people. It suits big systems that people are unable to actually have conversations about things that matter without losing their composure or threatening some type of violence. And of course, this has been compounded by social media manifold, where suddenly the echo chambers are so long and winding, and the

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spread of misinformation and hateful messaging so quick and volatile that we're acting out of our most base psychology, and our nervous systems are constantly in a state of alarm.

This state of alarm can be mild or really heightened depending on where you are located geographically, socially and economically in the world. I wanted to respond to this 'alarmed collective nervous system' in a sense, and that's kind of where the play originates. ow do you depict the manipulation of fear in the storyline, and what message do you hope audiences will take away from it?

I hope audiences truly 'see'. I hope they're able to connect with every single character in the play and recognise the parts of themselves that identify and resonate with the characters. I hope audiences acknowledge their own complexities when it comes to feelings around 'people who are not like them', whether they are immigrants or refugees or people from any kind of minority. I hope audiences get in touch with their own fears and attempt to understand them better. But if audiences have their own inexplicable journey while watching it or experience imperceptible shifts, that is just enough too. an you describe the central characters and their roles in navigating the themes of your play, especially in the context of divisive politics and social media?

There is Bina. She is a bigwig in a big political party that is in power in this imaginary country in the near future. She has a specific worldview we've seen espoused globally over the last decade and a half. There is Mehrosh. She is a young activist whose worldview is in a sense, in opposition to Bina's. A lot of how in opposition they are to each other, is also something the news

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West Midlands Mayor invites Preity Zinta for Diwali Preity Zinta, a prominent actress in Indian Cinema, is scheduled to visit Birmingham in November to participate in Diwali festivities. She will be warmly welcomed by the Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, and both Andy and Preity will oversee a weekend of events on November 4th and 5th, 2023, in collaboration with the Consulate General of India.

Mayor Andy Street expressed, “Diwali is a special time for the Indian diaspora, and communities right across our region are looking forward to celebrating the Festival of Lights.

Preity is expected to

Preity Zinta

receive honours from some of the city's prominent civic and educational institutions. Her last visit to the UK was over a decade ago when she addressed students at the Oxford Union Society at Oxford University.

Photo credit Aparna Nori

Fear, silence, and social media in spotlight

Deepika Arwind

media and social media have hyped up. They're both influential women who have big social media followings, and are now going to go into a live debate. The play deals with the impending hour before the debate, and they walk through it. How each of them feels about the 'state of alarm' I’ve alluded to is very much what moves them through the play. Apart from these two characters, and two others, another mystery character works itself into their liminal space. It's a spectre, something that doesn't quite belong. ow does the title reflect the narrative and its exploration of contemporary issues?

I think the title reflects the ghosts and phantoms we witness in everyday life, especially the part that engages us as citizens of neighbourhoods or states or countries. What ghosts do we choose to see, and those we ignore? Which darkness can we get accustomed to that it starts to feel like a kind of light? ow does your play offer a unique perspective on issues like divisive politics and populism, and what do you believe makes it relevant to current events?

I think in using the idea of the 'theatre of horror' it articulates the themes in the play on a sensorial level.

If you've ever thought: What would a conversation with someone who (I think) is completely different than me look like, it sort of does that for you. Who you identify most with, or what aspects of the different

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characters you relate to is of course to do with your personal experience. What makes it relevant to current events? I think we live in a time of oppositions and dualities, right? The play I think could be about any and all of these things and people in a sense, and it offers different positions that are not just of the two central characters. ow does your play portray the influence of social media platforms and their impact on the characters' lives?

All the characters confront its astounding pace, its ability to mobilise actual physical bodies and its ripples into the 'real world'.

The threats, the abuses, the particular strain of discomfort, alarm (I use the word again), urgency and empowerment one feels that has come to characterise it are very much what they have to deal with while also having to live in the present moment. Social media can elevate the tribe, but it can also leave you isolated. The thing you fear is also the thing that is your tool. s a playwright, what challenges did you face in addressing such complex and timely issues in your work, and how did you navigate these challenges?

The first draft came to me quite 'easily' if there is such a thing with writing. I doubted some of the horror elements in the play, and I hoped that it would be something that would truly create the eerie atmosphere I was hoping to create. I wrote in darkness, but I evoked it? I wrote in the 'state of alarm' but would we hear the bells going off?

How did I navigate it? Like I do most things. I put one word in front of the next. I kept writing it and once it was read by people -friends, colleagues, dramaturges, and they could feel its pulse, I knew that it did do a lot of the things I wanted it to do.

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'Berlin' to launch London Indian Film Festival The 2023 London Indian Film Festival (LIFF) will kick off this month with the European premiere of the Indian spy thriller 'Berlin.'

This year, the festival expands to include more UK cities like Manchester, Birmingham, Bradford, and Leeds.

'Berlin' will open in London on October 25 and also kickstart the Birmingham leg of the festival.

Additionally, LIFF in Bradford will feature the UK premiere of Anurag Kashyap’s thriller 'Kennedy,' which debuted

at the Cannes Film Festival this year.

Kashyap’s latest serial killer thriller is part of LIFF’s new action strand, "Death By Any Means," which will also showcase films like 'Gangs of Wasseypur' and Oscar winner S.S. Rajamouli’s 'Eega' (The Fly).

Grammy winner Ricky Kej criticises comedian Trevor Noah Three-time Grammy awardwinning musician Ricky Kej criticised Trevor Noah a few days after the comedian's show in Bengaluru was cancelled due to "technical issues," leaving his fans disappointed.

In a post on X, Kej responded to Noah's farewell message and wrote, “While I do agree that there were many Event Management related problems in the Bengaluru show for @Trevornoah .. there is something known as a “Soundcheck” and “Venue recce” that every responsible and caring artist caries out before a show.”

Ricky Kej

Kej also cited instances of other foreign musicians who have successfully held events in Bengaluru by collaborating closely with event management and delivering outstanding experiences for their fans.

Hindustani classical concerts to captivate London and Birmingham The Rama Arts Network, in collaboration with the Raga Fellowship Foundation and Canada Council for the Arts, is preparing to present 'The Autumn Barzākh,' a concert showcasing three contemporary maestros of Hindustani classical music next month.

This concert, which will take place at the London Symphony Orchestra St Luke's, draws its name from the Sufi philosophy of 'Barzākh' – a spiritual-aesthetic realm that exists between heaven and earth. It promises to be a transcendent experience.

Arnab Chakrabarty

The event will feature a jugalbandi (musical collaboration) between three accomplished musicians: sarod player Arnab Chakrabarty, sitar player Roopa Panesar, and tabla player Shahbaz Hussain.

Each of them hails from prestigious artistic lineages, and they have all carved their unique paths by blending the richness of traditional music with contemporary appeal.

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14 - 20 October 2023

A novel approach to tackle the knife crime epidemic Nitin Mehta A tragic death of a young girl on her way to school in Croydon has stirred the nation's conscience. For almost 20 years hundreds of young people have lost their lives involving knives or a bladed instrument.

Apart from the tragic loss of a young life the devastating impact on the families is unbearable. The lives of mother, father, grandparents, siblings, aunties, uncles and friends are ruined as hundreds of families go through this trauma. Every time there is a death, politicians meet the 'community' and promise some action but nothing has stopped the deaths. In London, there were 12,786 offences involving knives in 2022/23. So far this year there have been 80 homicides which include 16 teenagers.

The recent police-recorded crime figures published by the Office of National Statistics showed a 21% increase in the number of knife and offensive weapon offences recorded from 37,706 in the year ending September 2021 to 45,639 in the year ending September 2022. Around four in ten homicides were committed using a knife or sharp instrument in the year up to March 2022, some 282 in total.

This is a 19% rise compared with the previous year and the highest annual total since records began in 1946, according to analysis from the Office for National Statistics. Local Councils are installing Bleed Control Kits in prominent areas to urgently assist victims of violent attacks. Many reasons are given for this tragedy unfolding in our society- broken homes, drugs, territorial rivalry and gangs. Punitive punishments by the Courts have also not worked.

There is a need to think out of the box. I propose that every school child from 10 or 12 years old would have to visit a prison as an outing with their school. There they should be shown prison conditions and what a moment of madness has done to a young person, doomed to stay in jail for years. I fervently believe that this will stop many future killers. My second proposal is that every school should have a Compassion Class every week. The children should be encouraged to practice empathy and compassion not only for human beings but also for animals. Visits should be organised to animal sanctuaries where children can learn to show compassion to all creatures.

I call upon all the stakeholders to consider this proposal in the belief that in the absence of any other solution to this conundrum let us try something different.

Tenants advised to freeze bedding to prevent bedbugs Landlords are advising tenants to freeze their duvets to prevent bedbug infestations, as the UK aims to avoid a situation similar to the bedbug panic currently occurring in France, where the insects have been found in cinemas, trains, hospitals, and schools.

The bedbug outbreaks in Paris have raised concerns about a potential invasion in the UK, prompting London Mayor Sadiq Khan to express worries about the possibility of bedbugs on the city's public transportation.

To help tenants protect their homes from bedbugs, Rik Smith, the director of tenancy services at Goodlord, a company that manages properties for landlords and letting agents, has offered several tips. These include freezing

affected clothes and bedding for a few hours before washing, washing bedding and clothes at a hot temperature (at least 60C), and tumble drying on a hot setting for 30 minutes.

Smith also recommended regular cleaning and vacuuming, emptying vacuum cleaners to prevent bedbugs from residing inside, keeping sleeping areas clutterfree, and refraining from bringing clothes or luggage indoors if they have been in a place with bedbugs.

Amid increasing concerns, transportation authorities in London are in communication with their counterparts in Paris to assess if there are any valuable lessons to be gleaned.

They are also conducting daily seat cleaning and closely monitoring the Eurostar service.

Prime Minister pays tribute to Conservative Friends of India at flagship reception The Conservative Friends of India hosted their flagship reception at Conservative Party Conference, which was held in Manchester this year.

The reception – which is always a sell out and the largest reception at Party Conference – was extra special this year, as the Prime Minister, Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP also attended.

It was a moment of great pride for CF India, as they

Rishi Sunak greets guests at the CFI reception

Rishi Sunak poses with Vikram Doraiswami, Ameet Jogia, Reena Ranger and others

hosted the first Prime Minister of British Indian origin.

Speaking at the recep-

tion, the Prime Minister paid tribute to Conservative Friends of India for the role it plays in representing

British Indians in the Party, as well as acting as the “Living Bridge” between the UK and India.

The reception was cohosted with the High Commissioner of India, His Excellency Vikram Doraiswami.

The reception featured the highest number of Cabinet Minister which reflected the Party’s commitment to British Indians and India. Cabinet Ministers included the Foreign Secretary, Rt Hon James Cleverly MP, Home Secretary, Rt Hon Suella

Braverman MP, Defence Secretary, Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP and Health Secretary Rt Hon Stephen Barclay MP. Other guests included Chairman of the Conservative Party Greg Hands MP, Mayor of West Midlands Andy Street, Bob Blackman MP, Dean Russell MP, Theresa Villiers MP, Steve Tuckwell MP, Felicity Buchan MP, Wendy Morton MP, Paul Scully MP, Pam Gosal MSP (West Scotland), Sandesh Gulhane MSP (Glasgow Region) and Lord Kulveer Ranger.

Long standing CF India member and former Home Secretary Rt Hon Priti Patel MP also attended. Priti spoke about her love for CF India and commitment to support the organisation.

Speaking during the reception, Co-Chairs Reena Ranger and Ameet Jogia paid tribute to the Prime Minister and thanked members for their support in making CF India the largest organisation within the Party.

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14 - 20 October 2023

‘Don’t give up’, says first British Pakistani Young Black and Asian men must register as boxing talent with ADHD Shefali Saxena Every October is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Awareness Month, an occasion to raise awareness and support for those with ADHD. In data shared by NHS England with the newsweekly, it is mentioned that there is no significant variation by sex and ethnic origin in their records, and positive screens for the disorder were found to be concentrated in younger age groups, among the unemployed and in those in receipt of benefits.

However, the NHS does regularly publish data and waiting times/referral breakdown information on Learning Disability Services Statistics and Autism Statistics, but not a disorder as specific as ADHD itself.

Aged only 21, Adam Azim will be the first British-Pakistani to ever fight for the esteemed European Title, on November 18th in Wolverhampton. Adam is a future world champion. A monster in the ring, he is a polite, respectful individual outside of it. He has incredible flair, and celebrates every victory with a backflip in the ring! He first started boxing as a way of controlling his ADHD and has been very open about the challenges this presents him.

Speaking to Asian Voice exclusively, Adam Azim said,” I come from a Pakistani Asian family. I’m

Adam Azim

Kashmiri as well as British, as I was born in the UK. We’re all warriors in my family. We’re from the Janjua Rajput caste, which is the same as Amir Khan, who is someone I’ve always looked up to.”

He first discovered that he had ADHD at 4 years old.

“I was very hyperactive and I had this energy that no one in my family had ever seen before. My parents saw that I couldn’t stop fidgeting, and I kept moving around and messing about - so they took me to the Doctor where I was diagnosed with ADHD. My family knew I needed an outlet for my energy, so they chose boxing and that helped me manage my ADHD,” Adam said.

Addressing what Asians need to understand about ADHD, the future champion said, “ADHD is very prevalent in the Asian community. I think people need to understand that ADHD isn’t a bad thing to have. It’s a really good thing. You can use it to achieve good things. Not just in boxing - it could be cricket, football, or

any great activity. You can use your ADHD to achieve something great. ADHD is a superpower. It is energy that you can channel into anything you want to achieve great things.”

Talking about navigating the condition, he told us, “My ADHD has been great for me. Some days I sit on the couch, and I don’t want to do anything, but my ADHD drives me to get up and do it. It is an extra kick I have within me that I can invoke into my training. My advice to anybody with ADHD who wants to pursue a career in sports, or anything they’re good at, keep going - don’t give up. It is a great thing to have. Use it as your superpower. I’ve used it in boxing and I’m hoping to get something great out of it. On November 18th I will be the first British-Pakistani to fight for, and hopefully win, the European Title. It is proof that others can achieve the same if not better.”

There is no harm in enquiring and speaking to a professional Psychologist Mamta Saha said, “We (South Asians) are becoming more and more open as a generation to accept special educational needs and address hidden and overt disabilities. I am finding that South Asian parents are less and less afraid to share their child’s behavioural issues with the intent to help, support and heal.”

Asked if parents can dis-

stem cell donors

Mamta Saha

cover ADHD in their kids earlier on, Saha said, “Yes. 100% if a parent notices any abnormalities, they are typically able to pick these up and there is no harm in enquiring and speaking to a professional for direction and guidance.”

But is there enough help and support for ADHD in the UK? “The UK is a lot more advanced than other countries in the east.

Parents however shouldn’t ever be complacent, and they should be proactive to ensure that their children have the essential support both inside and outside of school. Workplaces are becoming more accepting and open to exploring how they can support neurodiverse employees. Asian businesses need to pay close attention and embrace neurodiverse employees as this cohort has untapped gifts and potential that could lead to innovation abs creatively above and beyond an individual who is neurotypical,” the psychologist told the newsweekly.

Addressing ADHD diagnosis in South Asians through a culturally sensitive lens Asian Voice spoke exclusively to Dr Samir Shah, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Director – Priory Hospital Altrincham and Clinical Director – of Priory Private and Wellbeing Services about ADHD and its South Asian connect.

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ow much do you think ADHD is stigmatised in the South Asian community?

South Asian community faces unique challenges and stigma associated with both childhood and adult ADHD, not to forget mental illness as a whole.

ADHD is usually accompanied by co-existing mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, bipolar illness, oppositional defiance or antisocial, risky behaviours, substance use and emotional regulation issues. Such complexity can affect an individual’s level of self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-perception and self-value in the society.

It is challenging to identify ADHD in South Asians due to cultural issues, perceptions and expectations from the society and each other. Usually, South Asian cultural value places emphasis on collec-

tive identity and conformity that supports the community, strengthens the feelings of belonging, and develops community strength; however, such values can also lead to stigmatisation of conditions like ADHD that could be seen as ‘not fitting in’ with the norms and expectations. In most South Asian cultures there is a strong emphasis on societal norms and expectations, and individuals with ADHD could be viewed as disruptive or challenging to these norms.

Having ADHD could be seen as a sign of weakness or failure for individuals or families to admit that they need outside help or medical intervention to function ‘as expected’. There are also misconceptions and myths

about mental health disorders let alone ADHD within the South Asian community, which further lead to stigmatisation. These misconceptions may arise from a lack of awareness or understanding of the symptoms and behaviours associated with ADHD. There is also an issue of stigma associated with the use of ADHD medications, which in some parts of Asia are banned to carry or prescribe.

By addressing ADHD

diagnosis in South Asians through a culturally sensitive lens, community engagement, and working together we can improve early detection and provide appropriate support, ultimately enhancing the wellbeing and success of individuals with ADHD in Asian communities. o you have any data related to South Asians in the UK who have ADHD? According to the UK GOV.UK 2021 data, there is no meaningful difference among different ethnic groups including South Asians, although this is from a small number of people data. There is a strong chance that in South Asian communities ADHD is not as easily noticed or considered as in some other communities.

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This Stem Cell awareness day [11th October 2023], NHS Blood and Transplant is urging young Black African, Black Caribbean, and Asian men to register as lifesaving stem cell donors.

Blood stem cell transplants are used to treat blood cancers and there simply aren’t enough young black or Asian men on the registry. Only 37% of transplant recipients from minority ethnic backgrounds receive the best stem cell donor match from an unrelated donor, compared to nearly 72% for Caucasian people.

There is a particular need for more young men because clinical data shows that transplants from young, male donors are more successful. They provide the highest doses of healthy stem cells. 75% of people who go on to suc-

cessfully donate stem cells are males aged under 30 but only 12% of people on the UK’s combined stem cell registry are from this background.

Stem cell transplants help treat conditions where the bone marrow is damaged and is no longer able to produce healthy blood cells. This can help treat conditions affecting blood cells, such as leukaemia, aplastic anaemia and multiple myeloma.

The best chance of finding a match is from a sibling or a close family member. Around 30% of people find a match in their family. If there are no matches in the family, a search on the British Bone Marrow Registry (BBMR) is carried out.

To join the BBMR register, simply inform staff at the blood donation session next time you give blood.

Backlash against NHS training for racial stereotyping Medical experts have expressed their outrage over an NHS training course that promotes racial stereotypes, with critics condemning it as "discriminatory" and "racist."

The controversy revolves around a section of the course that suggests individuals of Asian descent might avoid making eye contact during medical care due to cultural considerations, as reported by MailOnline.

A healthcare professional from Bristol-based NHS posted a screenshot of this course module on social media, sparking widespread criticism and discussion.

The module raises the question of why an "Asian male" might refrain from making eye contact when receiving medical care.

Possible explanations include cultural norms, feelings of embarrassment, or a desire to keep something private.

The module ultimately endorses the first explanation, asserting that "Asians are often discouraged from making eye contact, as it may be perceived as disrespectful."

Mental healthcare in England a national emergency The NHS Confederation warns that mental health is in crisis, pushed down the priority list, and patients are being neglected.

Mental healthcare in England is facing a "national emergency," with overwhelmed services struggling to handle a significant surge in demand post-Covid. The strain is so severe that thousands experiencing mental health crises are being admitted to acute hospitals ill-equipped to handle them.

Hospital leaders argue

that mental health has been "neglected" by ministers, who are prioritizing addressing the 7.7 millionstrong care backlog, improving access to GPs, and managing ongoing NHS strikes.

According to evidence collected by the confederation from NHS trusts in England, some mental health patients are so unwell that they must be hospitalized in acute facilities due to a lack of available beds in specialized psychiatric units or other support.

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Badal Lakhlani

Gandhi Jayanti, poet Pankaj Vora's poem paying ujarat Samachar tribute to Gandhiji was organised a special recited by well-known zoom event on the poet Bharatiben. occasion of Mahatma Recalling Gandhi's Gandhi's 154th birth legacy, Kokila Patel, conanniversary on October 2, sulting editor of Gujarat 2023. During this virtual Rashmi Begani, The reactions stemming veyed to the High Ashram and relocate to Samachar, highlighted gathering, CB Patel, the Commission my belief that Wardha. The ashrams Secretary, Jain from this profound experi“the profound influence Editor-in-Chief of Asian such actions are entirely established in Wardha hold Vishwabharti said, “The ence sent ripples throughhe had on ardent advoVoice and Gujarat unacceptable. Nonetheless, great significance, as principles of Jainism such cates such as Martin out the British Empire, Samachar, and numerous it's important to acknowlGandhi advocated for the as compassion, humility, Luther King and Nelson eventually giving rise to a participants reflected on edge that there have been transformation of the and nonviolence, have all Mandela. Martin Luther series of non-violent movethe life, principles, and sigcommendable instances of Congress Party. He insisted King led a nonviolent been strongly influenced ments that would pronificant moments in the dignified conduct as well.” that upon India's indepenmovement in America,

by Bapuji throughout his foundly challenge the life of Mahatma Gandhi, “Today, we emphasise dence in 1947, the striving to end injustices life. He was more of a Jain foundations of imperialwhile paying tribute to his rights over duties. It seems Congress Party should disagainst black individuals. in spirit than he was a Jain ism.

History bears witness enduring values. that, with time, we have solve itself and transition Similarly, in South Africa, by birth. Early in his life, he to the transformative The consulting editor veered away from the 11 into a Lok Sevak Sangh.

Nelson Mandela champiwas greatly inspired by two of Gujarat oned the Samachar, Gandhian Jyotsnaben approach in Shah, while his fight presiding over against the proapartheid.” gramme, “Gandhiji's offered heartunwavering felt homage to commitment the remarkin the pursuit able life of Jagdish Dave Vishnu Pandya Usha Upadhyaya Rashmi Begani Yashuben Patel of truth is eviGandhiji and dent in his extended a autobiograwarm welphy, titled come to all "The attendees Experiments gathered to of Truth." celebrate Throughout Gandhiji's his life, legacy.

Gandhi preAdditionally, sented ideas she paid tribthat remain Kokila Patel Pooja Raval Jyotsna Shah Mattur Nandkumara CB Patel ute to the forexemplary for mer Prime all, not only or three people, and one of Minister Lal Bahadur power of these moveGandhi emphasise Mahavrats that Gandhiji through his words but also them was Shrimad Raj Shastri and remembered ments,” he added. the path of truth and held dear. I don't elevate through the way he lived,” Chandra ji. As everyone his pioneering role in initiTalking about non-violence the Mahatma to the status she added. knows, he converted to ating the Green Revolution Mahatma Gandhi creating of a deity, but I earnestly Writer Usha Pooja Raval, Managervegetarianism, which was in 1962, marked by the a special place, Padmashri pray for the inspiration to Upadhyaya said, “The mesBusiness Development, highly influenced by iconic slogan 'Jai Jawan-Jai Vishnubhai Pandya, senior carry forward his legacy by sage of Narsingh Mehta's while addressing the parJainism. In Jainism, we do Kisan.' During the event, journalist, said, “The initial embracing and embodying "Vaishnav Jan To Aye Re ticipants, said, “I want to not believe in hurting even she highlighted the signifiashram from where his teachings. Jay Bharat,” Kaley" hymn also resonates say a line from Gandhiji's the smallest living things, cant life events and contriGandhi embarked on his he added. in Mahatma Gandhi's 11 Panchamrut, ‘I am very and today, a lot of scientifbutions of both of these journey of Satyagraha was From Barrister Gandhi to Mahavratas. Following in dear to the wise, and the ic research has shown that exemplary individuals to the Phoenix Ashram, not Satyagrahi Gandhi the footsteps of Narsingh wise are dear to me’. Our following a vegetarian diet our nation, evoking a sense Sabarmati. He conducted Jagdish Dave, former Mehta, Gandhi reiterated Editor-in-Chief C B Patel really helps with health. of reverence and admiravarious experiments and chairman of the Mahatma these principles, and today, has steadfastly maintained Gandhiji adopted a very tion among the particidrew upon several philosoGandhi Foundation, said, even in the era of artificial his dedication to knowlsimple lifestyle, which is pants, who joined in offerphies during his time in “There are many aspects to intelligence, their wisdom edge and service, marking also influenced by the prining their salutations.

South Africa. During his Gandhiji; each aspect can endures. Both Narsingh an impressive half-century ciple of aparagriha, or nonThe programme combe lectured separately, but stay, Gandhi organised a Mehta and Gandhi emphaof unwavering commitpossessiveness.

Lots of Jain menced with a solemn I will only talk about how contest in which people sised the importance of ment to Jnanayagya and nuns and monks barely prayer led by Dr. Mattur Barrister Gandhi became could vote on the word treading the path of truth Sevayagya.” possess one or two items Nandakumara, the Satyagrahi Gandhi. This that should represent his and non-violence, as well “Gujarat Samachar has other than the immediate Executive Director of was first published in movement. Among the as refraining from stealing, now entered its 51st year, clothing or the utensils Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Gujarat Samachar, suggestions, "Sadagraha" underscoring the enduring and this milestone would they use and Gandhiji too London. Following this, 'Barrister Gandhi to was proposed, but Gandhi relevance of these teachnot have been possible had just his dhoti which he Jyotsnaben Shah received a Satyagrahi Gandhi'. The believed that "Satyagraha" ings. As we witness various without the invaluable made using the charka. prestigious award from the article states that a 24was a more suitable term. atrocities and unsettling support of our readers.

The colour he adapted was Gujarat government in year-old man, dressed in Thus, he advocated for the events around us on the Over the past 12 months, recognition of her excepwhite, which stands for English attire, departed use of "Satyagraha," giving occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, we've been listening to tional efforts in promoting purity and is also worn by from Durban for birth to a new way of nonI find myself contemplatyour feedback and culture. The event then Jain nuns and monks.`` Johannesburg. Having violent resistance that ing the choice between AI requests. In response to witnessed a captivating Gandhi’s actions changed graduated as a barrister in and Gandhiji's teachings.” would impact the world.” the concerns voiced by our prayer led by the melodidestiny of many London approximately five “The Satyagraha move“AI offers us analytical loyal readers, we have ous voice of Mayaben Yashuben Patel, to six years ago, he arrived ment in India marked a insights and tools to navidecided to enhance the Deepak, adding a touch of Representative of in Durban with an excepsignificant historical event gate the complex web of coverage of Gujarat spiritual resonance to the Mandhata Samaj talked tional legal background in that unfolded in human endeavours and Samachar and Asian Voice proceedings. about Gandhiji's biography India. Trains departing Champaran, making it a achievements. However, from October 1. This step Editor-in-Chief, CB and said “Bapu was a pious from Durban make a stop pivotal milestone. It was the profound essence of is aimed at providing you Patel, said, “In the present man whose actions at Pietermaritzburg stainitiated by Mahatma humanity that Gandhiji with an even better serera, our hope was that after changed the destiny of tion. However, in a disGandhi and held such prochampioned cannot be vice. We kindly urge you Gandhiji's sacrifice, Indians. Even the British heartening incident, a found importance that it attained without cultivatto take advantage of the humanity would continue had to pack their bags and white officer instructed the caught the attention of the ing a deep sense of empaexisting pricing structure to uphold its humane valrun away. We were Indian passenger, seated in British rulers. Following thy and sensitivity. On this while it lasts and also ues. However, regrettably, amazed by the power that the first-class compartthe events of 1857, a sense Gandhi Jayanti, I would spread the word among tendencies towards sepaone man's army had.

After ment, to move to the thirdof a new path and a budlike to emphasise that it's your loved ones. ratism, a propensity for starting the Dandi March class compartment. ding national awakening essential to preserve Additionally, we are excitviolence, and a malicious on March 12, 1930, when Despite holding a valid began to emerge.

Gandhiji's enduring values. ed to announce that we sense of self-interest have Bapu broke the salt law in first-class ticket, he refused Subsequently, locations Upholding his unwavering will be publishing a special tarnished the essence of Dandi on April 6, the peoto comply, was pushed such as Kocharab and compassion and concern Diwali issue in November humanity. As a British citiple of the Kantha region down, and his baggage Gandhi Ashram were for the most vulnerable to celebrate the festive zen, I am deeply disheartrejoiced.

The path of viothrown away.” established in among us and engaging in season with you,” she ened and ashamed that a lence was not even in “On a frigid winter Ahmedabad,” he added. As even the smallest acts of added. heinous crime occurred in Bapu's mind, and he went night, in an entirely unfatime passed, Mahatma service for those who sufThe vote of thanks was Britain last week, and I to jail.

This was the first miliar land, Gandhi found Gandhi made the decision fer are genuine tributes to presented by Mahesh extend my sincere apolovictory of Satyagraha.” himself utterly helpless. to disband the Sabarmati his legacy,” she added.

Liloriya, Group Editor. gies to the public. I conOn the occasion of

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Celebrating 154th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

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14 - 20 October 2023

Dear Financial Voice Reader, Alpesh Patel OBE

In a recent article, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt posited that the UK should reform ISA to help British stocks in the stock market. His focus is presumably on Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) as a way to tap into the vast reserves of British cash. While the idea is intriguing, it fundamentally misses the mark when it comes to helping the average UK investor prepare for retirement. The real overhaul should be encouraging people to invest in Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) and Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs), particularly in stable, high-performing stocks like Microsoft, rather than the high-risk, high-reward game of IPOs. IPOs can be tantalizing. They offer the promise of getting in on the ground floor of the next big thing. However, they are fraught with risks and uncertainties. Even the Oracle of Omaha, Warren Buffett, generally avoids IPOs, stating that they are too unpredictable and not in line with his investment philosophy of understanding a business thoroughly before investing in it.

Contrast this with ISAs and SIPPs, investment vehicles that allow UK citizens to invest tax-free. These wrappers provide a stable platform for long-term investment, particularly when invested in tried-and-true stocks. For example, Microsoft has shown a 12-month performance increase of approximately 30% as of October 2023. This kind of stability and growth is what most investors, especially those looking towards retirement, should be aiming for.

Let's consider some other high-performing, household-name stocks over the past 12 months: Apple, Amazon, and Google parent Alphabet. These companies have shown consistent growth and are generally considered to be less risky than a new IPO. Investing in such companies through an ISA or SIPP not only allows for potential growth but also provides tax benefits, making it a win-win situation for UK investors.

Jeremy Hunt's aim to tap into UK cash for IPOs seems somewhat misguided when you consider that the average UK investor is more interested in long-term stability and growth rather than the gamble of an IPO. The UK government has already provided the tools for this kind of investment in the form of ISAs and SIPPs. The focus should be on educating the public on how to make the most of these tools, rather than diverting attention and resources to the volatile world of IPOs. The UK has a robust financial market and a public that is increasingly interested in personal investment. Rather than steering this potential towards the uncertain world of IPOs, the focus should be on maximizing the utility of ISAs and SIPPs. These are the tools that can help the average UK citizen build a stable financial future, and they should not be overlooked in favour of more glamorous, but riskier, investment options.

In conclusion, while IPOs may offer the allure of quick profits, they are not the best vehicle for long-term financial planning. ISAs and SIPPs offer a much safer and more reliable path to financial security, especially when invested in established, high-performing stocks. It's high time we shift our focus to these more sustainable forms of investment.

Tobacco firms lose nearly £1 billion following crackdown The UK's major tobacco companies witnessed a collective loss of nearly £1 billion in share value as they voiced concerns about the government's plan to raise the legal age for tobacco purchases, citing potential "significant unintended consequences."

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak surprised investors with his announcement at the Conservative Party conference, proposing a new law that would prohibit tobacco sales to individuals born on or after January 1, 2009. The stock market responded swiftly, with British American Tobacco (BAT), the owner of Dunhill and Lucky Strike, experiencing a drop in shares, declining from

approximately stable to 1% lower, resulting in a market value decrease of approximately £600 million.

In a similar vein, Imperial Brands, another London-listed company that owns brands like Gauloises and Rizla, saw its shares decrease by 2.4% following the announcement, causing its market value to shrink by around £340 million. While the company expressed its willingness to engage with the Government on this policy, it also raised concerns regarding the potential ramifications of the proposed change.

Supreme, a manufacturer of disposable vaping products, also experienced a decline in its share price on Wednesday.

Buyer's market leads to fastest UK house price decline In September, UK house prices experienced their most significant annual drop in 14 years, marking the sixth consecutive monthly decline in what is currently described as a "buyer's market," according to Halifax, the largest mortgage lender in Britain.

Halifax reported a 4.7% decrease in prices for September, representing the

most substantial year-onyear decline since 2009. The average price of a typical UK home dropped to £278,601, down from £292,197 in the same month the previous year. Recent data had already shown a decline in UK mortgage approvals in August, reaching their lowest level in six months, mainly due to elevated interest rates, which contributed

to cooling down the housing market.

The Bank of England confirmed that net mortgage approvals for house purchases had fallen from 49,500 in July to 45,400 in August, marking a one-third decrease compared to the same month in the previous year. Last month, the Bank of England decided to keep interest

rates steady for the first time in nearly two years, ending a streak of 14 consecutive rate hikes. This move raised the possibility that the peak in borrowing costs had been reached, as lenders began to reduce rates on mortgage deals.

Jeremy Hunt cools Metro Bank to slash costs down tax cut demands after £925 mn rescue deal Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt dampened the increasing calls for tax reductions within the Tory party, stating that he could not commit to any "inflationary" tax cuts before the upcoming election.

Prior to his speech at the party's annual conference in Manchester, Hunt announced an increase in the minimum wage for workers aged 23 and over to a minimum of £11 per hour, up from £10.42.

However, his message was overshadowed by appeals from senior Tory lawmakers, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's predecessor, for tax cuts in an effort to bridge the gap in opinion polls with the opposition Labour party before the expected election next year.

Jeremy Hunt

This dispute represents the latest in a series of disagreements over the party's direction under Sunak, who aims to use the conference to bolster his year-old premiership by demonstrating his willingness to make challenging decisions to improve people's financial circumstances.

He pointed out that tax cuts this year would be inflationary, which would make it more challenging to achieve Sunak's January pledge to cut inflation in half by the end of the year.

Metro Bank is launching a fresh cost-cutting drive after the embattled lender clinched a £925 mn rescue package from investors over the weekend. The high street lender said it was aiming to slash about £30 mn of costs a year from 2025 as part of the deal, which avoided a potential breakup or takeover by a rival UK bank.

It was not immediately clear whether those cuts will result in job losses among its 4,000 employees, including those that work across its 76 branches. Metro, which became the UK’s first new high street lender in 150 years when it burst on to the scene in 2010, also confirmed overnight that customers had started to pull their money out in recent

days amid worries over its financial health.

However, the lender said it still expected current account balances to grow, “notwithstanding the recent increase in deposit outflow rates in advance of the announcement of the capital package.”

In total, the rescue deal involves £600 mn of debt refinancing, on top of a £325 mn capital raise, which includes £150 mn of new shares sold at 30p a share. It is also planning to sell off about 40% – or £3bn – of its mortgages to reduce the risks on its balance sheet.

UK food prices decline for the first time in two years In September, the cost of groceries in the UK saw a marginal decrease of 0.1% compared to the previous month, as reported by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). The BRC noted that prices had been reduced for items like dairy, margarine, fish, and vegetables, while households spent less on school uniforms and backto-school essentials.

The BRC also confirmed a slowdown in food inflation to 9.9% in September,

down from 11.5% in August.

This rate is below the 3month average of 11.4% and marks the fifth consecutive deceleration in the food category. Meanwhile, overall shop price annual inflation,

UK faces largest tax hike in over 50 years with £40bn increase New analysis reveals that the UK is headed for its largest tax increase in half a century due to the freeze on personal thresholds and surging inflation.

The Resolution Foundation has projected that taxpayers will contribute £40 billion annually by 2028, a significant increase from the £30 billion forecasted at Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's budget announcement in March.

The government's policy entails maintaining the freeze on income tax and

national insurance thresholds until 2028.

This development comes as Hunt dismissed the possibility of substantial tax cuts this year, despite calls from within the Tory party for a pre-election giveaway at the Conservative Party conference.

encompassing nonfood items, also eased to 6.2% in September, down from 6.9% in August.

It's essential to clarify that decelerating inflation means that prices are still increasing but at a slower pace. Consequently, in September, shoppers paid around 10% more for their goods compared to the same period last year. The report-

ed 0.1% price decline was assessed on a month-tomonth basis, rather than an annual difference.

The BRC anticipates a continued decrease in shop price inflation for the remainder of the year, but it highlights potential factors that could disrupt this trend. Notable risks include elevated interest rates, surging oil prices, global sugar shortages, and supply chain disruptions due to Russia's conflict in Ukraine.

Brussels considering relaxed regulations on electric vehicle sales The EU is formulating a plan to delay tariffs on electric vehicle (EV) sales between the UK and the bloc by one year, aiming to alleviate tensions over the upcoming regulations set to take effect in January.

According to Maroš Šefčovič, Vice President of the European Commission, Brussels intends to interpret the "made in Europe" rules quite flexibly in 2024. This approach would grant car manufacturers additional time to transition their battery sourcing from Asia

to Europe.

As per the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) established after Brexit, a 10% tariff will be imposed on EVs transported across the English Channel if their batteries are primarily manufactured outside Europe or the UK. London has proposed a straightforward three-year postponement of these changes. Šefčovič clarified that the Commission aims to redefine the criteria for what qualifies as European under the rules of origin.

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World Bank retains India's GDP growth forecast at 6.3% The World Bank increased the inflation forecast from 5.2% to 5.9% during the course of the past six months while maintaining India's growth forecast for the current fiscal year at 6.3%.

“Adverse weather conditions contributed to a spike in inflation in recent months. Headline inflation rose to 7.8% in July due to a surge in prices of food items like wheat and rice.

Inflation is expected to decrease gradually as food prices normalise and government measures increase the supply of key commodities,” the multilateral development bank said in the latest India Development Update.

South Asia is expected to grow more quickly than any other region of developing countries in the world, driven by Indian expansion. According to the analysis, India would continue to grow quickly despite global challenges caused by high global interest rates, geopolitical unrest, and

weak global demand. “Service sector activity is expected to remain strong with growth of 7.4% and investment growth is also projected to remain robust at 8.9%,” it said.

While the publication took note of India’s high public spending, World Bank’s country director for India Auguste Tano Kouame said: “Tapping public spending that crowds in more private investments will create more favourable conditions for India to seize global opportunities in the future and thus achieve higher growth.”

India, UAE to expand rupeedirham trade: Goyal India's commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal stated that India and the UAE are looking into measures to increase the rupee-dirham trade because it would significantly affect bilateral trade.

He also said it will help the two countries in making remittances flow from the UAE to India at a lower cost.

“We have looked at further expanding the rupee-dirham trade, which has been operationalised with the efforts of the central bank of the UAE and RBI,” he said. “I have just completed discussions with RBI and the central bank of UAE and we have agreed that we will work with industry and bankers to speed up and operationalise rupeedirham trade much faster, much bigger.”

The India-UAE High Level Task Force on Investments is convening for the 11th time and Goyal is in

attendance. A minimum of 5% of all trade between the two nations will be saved by trading in home currencies, he noted. The two parties talked about developing industrial and food parks in India. India and the UAE have already implemented a free trade agreement in May last year to give a boost to bilateral trade and economic ties. Bilateral trade between the countries increased to $84.9 billion in 2022-23 from $72.9 billion in 2021-22.

India, Japan to launch $600 mn climate fund The Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) have teamed up to launch the $600 million India Japan Fund (IJF), with JBIC and the Indian government serving as anchor investors.

This joint initiative signals a key dimension of collaboration between the two countries in an area that is a shared priority, and includes climate and environment. The Centre contributed 49% of the target corpus, while the JBIC contributed the remaining 51%, making this the first bilateral fund announced by NIIF. According to an official release, the fund will be managed by NIIF (NIIFL),

while JBIC IG (a subsidiary of JBIC) would assist NIIFL in encouraging Japanese investments in India.

The IJF will focus on investing in environmental sustainability and low carbon emission strategies, and aims to play the role of being a ‘partner of choice’ to further enhance Japanese investments into India.

A significant turning point in Japan and India's strategic and economic alliance was the establishment of the IJF. IJF will actively invest in India's environmental preservation industry, which includes enterprises involved in e-mobility, renewable energy, and circular economy industries like waste and water management.

UK's Superdry sells S Asia licenses to Reliance Retail for £40 mn Reliance Retail will buy UK-based Superdry's licenses and brand assets in three Asian countries for 40 million pounds, expanding its tie-ups with foreign brands and giving the struggling UK fashion retailer muchneeded funds.

Superdry's shares jumped 18% to a near two-month high after the company said it would use the expected 28.3 million pounds net proceeds to boost its liquidity and fund its capital needs as part of a turnaround plan.

The deal will be via a joint venture - in which Superdry will invest 9.6 million pounds for a 24% stake - and cover Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and India, where the UK company has been present since 2012 when it first partnered with Reliance Retail.

Reliance Retail has more than 18,000 stores selling everything from groceries to electronics. It also has partnerships with foreign brands such as Jimmy Choo, Marks & Spencer and Pret A Manger.

The company, which competes with Amazon and Walmart's Flipkart, is in talks with investors including the sovereign wealth funds of Singapore, Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia for investments of around $1.5 billion, reports said.

Disney in talks with Adani, Sun TV to sell India assets Walt Disney is holding preliminary discussions with potential buyers for its India streaming and television business including billionaires Gautam Adani and Kalanithi Maran, according to people familiar with the matter.

The US entertainment giant’s senior executives have also gauged the interest of private equity funds considering the company is exploring a range of options, which could involve selling part of the Indian operations or a combination of the unit’s assets including sports rights and regional streaming service Disney+ Hotstar, the people said, asking not to be identified because the discussions are private.

Disney has been weighing strategic options for its business in India including an outright sale or setting up a joint venture after the unit lost its IPL streaming rights to Viacom18 Media.

Viacom is a joint venture between Reliance, Paramount Global and Uday Shankar’s investment firm Bodhi Tree Systems. An acquisition could complement Maran’s broadcasting company, Sun TV, while for the Adani group, it could help expand its newly acquired NDTV, the people said.

Absence of info hits Sebi’s Adani probe Since 2014, the market watchdog Sebi has been looking into alleged irregularities at the Adani Group that were reported by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). However, due to a lack of information, they have not made much progress.

The Bank of Baroda (BoB) branch in Dubai was contacted by the regulator shortly after it received a letter from DRI, and after a short period of time, BoB wrote to Sebi, claiming it was

unable to release the data because of UAE restrictions. The information was not shared, despite follow-up action by Sebi, prompting it to take up the matter with the parent entity BoB, which, too, turned down the plea.

Sebi, the sources said, also took up the matter with RBI, requesting it to get BoB to part with the information, but did not make any headway. Even the regulatory agency in the UAE did not share the data, despite having an

agreement with Sebi, prompting it to take up the issue with International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), an association of regulatory bodies. Before being officially concluded last year, the investigations were carried out during the terms of at least two Sebi chiefs, according to sources. Questions about the function of the regulating body have been raised in a petition to the Supreme Court, and this matter is currently being heard.

E-scooter sales recover after subsidy cuts

Electric two-wheeler sales increased by 16% to 340,00 units during the first six months of 2023-24.

While sales were hit in the immediate weeks after the government cut back on Fame-2 subsidies from June 1, they seemed to be stabilising over the last few months as consumers seemed to be getting used to life without subsidies.

As a result, after dipping to a flat 3.2% sales growth of 45,806 units in June, they have picked up to around 62,000 units in August and September. While year-onyear growth continues to be positive, month-on-month growth has flattened out from 18.5% in July to 15% in August and flat negative 1.5% in September.

Overall electric vehicle registrations jumped 51% to 740,000 units during the first half of the current financial year. Of this more than half was accounted for by electric two-wheelers.

Electric four-wheeler registrations were estimated to have zoomed 163% to 42,323 units during the first six months, up from 16,095 units in the year-ago period.

“Electric two-wheelers comprise around 55% of all EV volumes nationally (as of August 31) while erickshaws, another

prominent category, comprises 34%. The electric two-wheeler market witnessed record sales in May 2023 ahead of the anticipated downward revision in Fame-2 in June but the downward revision triggered dips. Since June, the electric two-wheeler market has been steadily recovering,” said Gagan Sidhu, director, CEEW Centre for Energy Finance.

Sohinder Gill, director general, Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles, said, “Demand has plateaued month-onmonth, which will make it challenging to reach the Niti Aayog target of 20,00,000plus units but festival season offers and discounts can revive some lost momentum.”

The see-sawing sales of electric two-wheelers has affected the targets for several states, with most seen to be lagging. So far, only one Indian state has actually managed to meet its sales targets well before the deadline - Gujarat. It had set a target of 110,000 twowheelers by 2025, and sales hit 1,19,448 units in July 2023 itself. Of all twowheeler sales, EVs in Gujarat now account for 5.4%, said a recent report by JMK Research.

Indian leaders are back on the saddle at Cognizant Indian leaders are back on the saddle at Cognizant after Ravi Kumar took charge as CEO in January.

With Jatin Dalal joining as Cognizant CFO, the return of Indian-origin leaders underscores massive efforts to revitalise growth with a new crop of senior recruits.

After a series of senior exits at the Nasdaq-listed company, Cognizant has backfilled top leadership roles with Infosys and Wipro graduates. Narsimha Rao Mannepalli, a former Infosys executive vice president and head of cloud, is reportedly joining Cognizant as the company's global head of delivery, according to sources. Andy Stafford, former EVP, and global delivery head, retired from the company earlier this year.

Nageswar Cherukupalli, former Infosys SVP is learnt to be joining Cognizant shortly too. Media had reported Mohd Haque,

former Wipro SVP, and head of healthcare and medical devices for the Americas, is joining Cognizant as the head of life sciences. An email sent to Cognizant on Mannepalli and Cherukupalli joining the firm didn’t elicit a response.

Ajmal Noorani, SVP and head of communication, media, and technology, is now heading only the technology practice while former Infoscion Anurag Vardhan Sinha is the SVP and head of communications and media practices. A threedecade veteran at Infosys, Sinha joined Cognizant in May from Infosys where he was the SVP & head, communications, media, and entertainment (CME) for the Americas.

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in brief

Over 2,400 killed in deadliest Afghan quakes KABUL: More than 2,400 people were killed in earthquakes in Afghanistan, the Taliban administration said on Sunday, in the deadliest tremors to rock the quake-prone mountainous country in years. The Saturday quakes in the west of the country hit 35 km (20 miles) northwest of the city of Herat, with one of 6.3 magnitude, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said.

They were among the world's deadliest quakes this year, after tremors in Turkey and Syria killed an estimated 50,000 in February.

Janan Sayeeq, spokesman for the Ministry of Disasters, said that the toll had risen to 2,445 dead, but he revised down

the number of injured to "more than 2,000". Earlier, he had said that 9,240 people had been injured.

Sayeeq also said 1,320 houses had been damaged or destroyed.

The death count spiked from 500 reported earlier on Sunday by the Red Crescent. Ten rescue teams were in the area, which borders Iran, Sayeeq said.

Food, drinking water, medicine, clothes and tents were urgently needed for rescue and relief, Suhail Shaheen, the head of the Taliban political office in Qatar, said in a message. The medieval minarets of Herat sustained some damage, photographs on social media showed. Hemmed in by mountains, Afghanistan has a history of strong earthquakes, many in the rugged Hindu Kush region bordering Pakistan.

Death count often rise when information comes in from more remote parts of a country where decades of war have left infrastructure in a shambles,

and relief and rescue operations difficult to organise.

Afghanistan's healthcare system, reliant almost entirely on foreign aid, has faced crippling cuts in the two years since the Taliban took over and much international assistance, which had formed the backbone of the economy, was halted.

Diplomats and aid officials say concerns over Taliban restrictions on women and competing global humanitarian crises are causing donors to pull back on financial support. The Islamist government has ordered most Afghan female aid staff not to work, although with exemptions in health and education.

Bangladesh PM pins re-election hopes on big projects DHAKA: Bangladesh’s prime minister left her motorcade last month to unveil an 11 km elevated expressway, one of a flurry of infrastructure projects launched as she steps up her campaign for a record fifth term in power.

Sheikh Hasina praised the motorway, which cost $1 billion and passes over Dhaka's congested streets, as a crucial step in the "journey of progress" that, under her leadership, transformed one of the world's poorest nations into an inspiring success story. Sheikh Hasina stated at a gathering, "I am giving it to you as a gift."

The 76-year-old Sheikh Hasina, the world's longest-serving female leader, is sending a strong statement with this push, which also includes an airport terminal and an undersea tunnel route, ahead of the country's January elections.

It represents an economic turnaround under her leadership to her Awami League supporters.

However, critics argue that the over dependence on mega-projects does not demonstrate government dynamism but rather a misallocation of resources as inflation rises and the economic miracle loses its lustre.

Iran girl critical after alleged assault over hijab by authorities TEHRAN: Two well-known human rights activists told the media that a teenage Iranian girl was in serious condition in the hospital after slipping into a coma after what they claimed was a confrontation with authorities on the Tehran subway for disobeying the hijab law.

Since Armita Geravand's case is so delicate, there are worries that the 16-year-old may share Mahsa Amini's fate, a 22-year-old woman whose death in a coma while in the morality police's care last year provoked months of widespread outrage.

The Iranian-Kurdish rights group Hengaw released a photo showing Geravand asleep at a Tehran hospital where she was transported following the event, despite the fact that authorities have refuted assertions made by rights groups that she fell into a coma after a clash with police

who were enforcing the Islamic dress code.

"We are following her case closely. She is in a coma at the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital and her condition is critical ... her relatives said there is a heavy presence of plain clothes men at the hospital," one of the activists in Iran said.

The second activist said security forces had forbidden Geravand's parents from posting her picture on social media or from talking to human rights groups. CCTV footage, shared on IRNA, showed Geravand without mandatory hijab accompanied by two female friends walking toward the train from the metro platform. Upon entering the cabin, one of the girls is seen immediately backing off and reaching for the ground, before another girl is dragged unconscious from the cabin by passengers.

“Infrastructure and megaprojects, we need those,” said Zillur Rahman, executive director of the Dhaka-based think-tank the Centre for Governance Studies. “But we need to address our education, our health issues, our freedom of expression and human rights.”

Bangladesh has of late boasted one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies, largely thanks to its garment exports industry, with annual gross domestic product growth regularly exceeding 6 per cent. But inflation surged during

the pandemic, exposing economic weakness underwritten by rising foreign borrowing and fuelling anger over the inequality and alleged corruption that have flourished under Sheikh Hasina’s rule, triggering protests.

Singaporeans must have to pay £88,000 for permission to own a car SINGAPORE: Singaporeans must have to pay £88,000 for the privilege of owning a car, and that sum does not include the price of the automobile itself. Due to soaring costs, most middle-class Singaporeans are unable to afford cars, making the citystate the most costly place in the world to drive.

An approximately 950,000capacity certificate of entitlement (COE) was first introduced in 1990 to regulate the number of vehicles on the road.

A bid is required for one of these certificates, which are now four times more expensive than they were in 2020.

When COE, registration costs, and taxes are added up, the price of a Toyota Camry Hybrid in Singapore is currently

Lloyd Austin & Asim Munir

telephonic conversation between the top officials and said, “They discussed areas of mutual interest and recent regional developments.”

Gen Munir and the US secretary had spoken on the phone

twice now. The two last spoke in January this year, when Gen Munir received a phone call from the US defence secretary congratulating him on becoming army chief, according to the media.

The Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani military, has not made a statement regarding the call yet, media reported.

According to media reports, Tom West, the US Special

An Indian-origin couple and their two children were found dead in their home in the US state of New Jersey and police are investigating the matter as a homicide. Tej Pratap Singh, 43, and Sonal Parihar, 42, were found dead alongside their 10-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter in their Plainsboro home, the Plainsboro police said. On the evening of October 4, authorities received a call requesting a welfare check at a residence in Plainsboro. Upon their arrival police discovered four deceased victims in the house," they said in a joint statement. "This tragedy remains under investigation and autopsies are being performed," they said, adding an initial investigation determined that there is no threat to the public.

SHARIF SUBMITS MEDICAL REPORTS IN COURT FOR BAIL Pakistan’s former PM Nawaz Sharif who has been living in the UK for the last four years in self-imposed exile submitted his medical reports to a top court in Lahore in anticipation of seeking protective bail ahead of his scheduled return to the country on October 21.

Sharif has “some residual angina (chest pain) symptoms” that will require “frequent follow-up investigations in London and Pakistan”, according to a medical report submitted to the Lahore HC. Nawaz had left for the UK in 2019 on medical grounds while serving a seven-year jail term for graft. He never returned and was declared a proclaimed offender in corruption cases.

LANKA PREZ REJECTS INTERNATIONAL PROBE INTO EASTER BLASTS Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has ruled out having an international-aided independent probe into the 2019 Easter bombings by a local Islamist extremist group as he slammed the Western media for its double standards. Nine suicide bombers belonging to the local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat linked to ISIS carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three Catholic churches and as many luxury hotels on April 21, 2019, killing nearly 270 people, including 11 Indians, and injuring over 500.

JAILED IRANIAN ACTIVIST WINS NOBEL PEACE PRIZE £151,000, which is five times more expensive than in the UK. Additionally, it is double the median yearly household earnings of £72,716.

Some Singaporeans are selling the automobiles they acquired - while COE costs were cheap - to make a profit due to persistent inflation and a faltering economy.

"There is a need to lower one's aspiration from achieving the 'good life' to settling with a 'good enough life'," said sociologist Tan Ern Ser.

US defence secy holds talks with Pak army chief over terror attacks WASHINGTON/ISLAMABAD: In the midst of a rise in terror assaults in Pakistan, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin called Gen. Asim Munir, head of the Pakistani Army, and they addressed "areas of mutual interest and recent regional developments."

In Washington, the US Department of Defence said Secretary of Defence Austin spoke on phone with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Munir. Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder, the Pentagon Press Secretary, confirmed the

INDIAN-ORIGIN FAMILY OF FOUR FOUND DEAD IN US

Representative for Afghanistan, has named the Tehreek-iTaliban Pakistan (TTP), a proscribed organisation, as the greatest threat to regional stability.

The telephonic conversation between Austin and Munir, therefore, assumes significance.

According to media, there has been “an uptick in terror activities in Pakistan, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, after the TTP ended its ceasefire with the Pakistan government in November last year.”

Imprisoned Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi won the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her tireless campaigning for women's rights and democracy and against the death penalty.

Mohammadi, 51, has kept up her activism despite numerous arrests by Iranian authorities and spending years behind bars. “This prize is first and foremost a recognition of the very important work of a whole movement in Iran with its undisputed leader, Narges Mohammadi," said Berit Reiss Andersen, the chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee who announced the prize in Oslo. She said the committee hopes the prize "is an encouragement to continue the work in whichever form this movement finds to be fitting.” She also urged Iran to release Mohammadi in time for the prize ceremony on December 10.

TWO KILLED IN TIBET’S SHISHAPANGMA AVALANCHES Avalanches struck high on the slopes of the Tibetan mountain Shishapangma as over 50 climbers were making a push for the summit, killing an American and Nepalese, China’s staterun Xinhua news agency reported. A guide was seriously injured while two others are missing.

Shishapangma, just over 8,000 metres, is the world’s 14th tallest peak. It is regarded as one of the easier mountains of that height, known as the “eight-thousanders”. Two avalanches hit its slopes at elevations of 7,600 metres and 8,000 metres last week, killing American climber Anna Gutu and Nepalese guide Mingmar Sherpa.

Another American, Gina Marie Rzucidlo, and her Nepalese guide, Tenjen Sherpa, are missing.

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27 Indians, Rajya Sabha MP Evacuated From Israel Following a terrorist attack by the Hamas organisation in Israel, several Indians have successfully crossed into Egypt from that country, including Rajya Sabha MP Wanweiroy Kharlukhi, his wife, and daughter.

"As per the latest information and through the efforts of MEA and our Indian mission, our 27 citizens from Meghalaya, who were stuck in the war conflict zone of Israel and Palestine have safely crossed the border into Egypt," Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said in a post on X.

Stand in solidarity with Israel: Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed shock at the Hamas attack on Israel. Extending condolence and prayers, PM Modi said India stands in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour. “Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour,” PM Modi tweeted hours after rockets fired by the Hamas group triggered a war in Israel.

in brief TRAINEE PILOTS DIE IN CANADA PLANE CRASH Two trainee pilots from Mumbai were among three killed in a plane crash in British Columbia, Canada, an official from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed.

The pilots, Abhay Gadroo was a resident of Vasai and Yash Vijay Ramugade was an Andheri resident. The twin-engined light aircraft crashed into trees and bushes behind a motel in the city of Chilliwack, about 200 km east of Vancouver, Canadian police officials said. Apart from Indian nationals, another pilot was also killed in the incident. Meanwhile, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada said it is sending investigators for further probe.“The scene is contained and there were no other reported injuries or risks to the public in the area,” RCMP said in a news release.

21 TOURISTS DIE IN VENICE BUS CRASH Italian authorities were investigating the cause of the horrific crash of a bus carrying foreign tourists on the outskirts of Venice which killed 21 people including several children and injured 15 others. The electric vehicle crashed through the guardrail and off an overpass in the Mestre district, slamming into the ground more than 10 metres below and catching fire. Five Ukrainians, a German and the Italian bus driver, identified as Alberto Rizzotto, were among those killed.

Another four Ukrainians, two Spaniards, two Austrians, a German, a Croatian and a French person were among those hurt. The bus had been ferrying them back to a campsite in nearby Marghera after a day out in Venice.

MEXICAN-INDIAN STUDENT CROWNED MISS TEEN USA A Mexican-Indian high school girl named UmaSofia Srivastava was named Miss Teen USA 2023 after competing against more than 50 other young ladies from across the nation in a live-streamed pageant held in the state of Nevada. The 16-year-old high school Junior at the Academy of St Elizabeth had become the first Mexican-Indian Miss New Jersey Teen USA earlier this year. Srivastava, who is fluent in Hindi, French, English, and Spanish, wants to be a UN ambassador. She assists poor children in India acquire a well-rounded education, wholesome nourishment, and medical treatment through the Lotus Petal Foundation.

UK stands with Israel Continued from page 1 Over 1600 casualties in both Israel and Gaza have been reported, and this number is expected to increase.

Israel also ordered a “complete siege” of Gaza Strip on Monday. Defence minister Yoav Gallant said that “no electricity, no food, no water, no fuel” would be allowed into Gaza.

According to latest updates, following the expiration of Hamas's ultimatum, rockets have been launched from Gaza towards Ashkelon. Earlier, Hamas had issued a warning to residents of the Israeli city, giving them until 5 PM local time (3 PM UK time) to evacuate. The threat was made by Hamas's armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, in response to what they referred to as the "enemy's crime."

World leaders take a stand The British Prime Minister,

Rishi Sunak at a synagogue in North London

Rishi Sunak along with the US President, Joe Biden; French President, Emmanuel Macron; German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz; and Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni issued a joint statement expressing "steadfast and united support" for the state of Israel and "unequivocal condemnation" of Hamas. These five countries together constitute the Quint international organisation.

This statement comes in response to an unprecedented attack on Israel from Gaza by the Palestinian militant group, which resulted in Israel launching airstrikes and imposing a "complete siege" on the Gaza Strip. “We make clear that the terrorist actions of Hamas have no justification, no legitimacy, and must be universally condemned,” the statement reads.

“There is never any justification for terrorism."

The Palace of Westminster, among various important monuments across the world, has also been illuminated as a demonstration of support for

the people of Israel in the wake of recent terrorist attacks.

UK committed to protecting its Jewish community

Dr Peter Chadha

As this conflict escalates, Rishi Sunak has affirmed his unwavering commitment to safeguarding Britain's Jewish community, vowing to take all necessary measures.

He made this pledge while addressing a synagogue in North London, where he expressed his solidarity with Israel and reassured the Jewish community in Britain. In addition to this, the Prime Minister pledged support for Israel, joining other world leaders in their response to the Hamas attacks.

The ongoing conflict, however,has reflected in London as hundreds of pro-Palestine protesters congregated outside the Israeli embassy in Kensington on Monday night.

During the demonstration, a Palestinian flag was draped atop a lamppost across from the embassy, and protesters brandished "free Palestine" banners

Ameet Jogia MBE

while chanting. In response to the protest, some sections of the embassy were boarded up.

Furthermore, police officers had to defuse and prevent potential clashes between proIsrael and pro-Palestine protesters near High Street Kensington Tube Station. Law enforcement reported the arrest of three individuals and ongoing investigations. In a separate incident, a Jewish restaurant in Golders Green, North London, was vandalised.

On the other hand, supporters of Israel gathered outside Downing Street to pay their respects to the victims and hostages of the Hamas attack that occurred over the Gaza border on Saturday.

The Metropolitan policeare increasing the profile of officers on London’s streets to provide reassurance against antisemitic activities.

Organisations and leaders stand in solidarity The Jewish safety charity the Community Security Trust (CST)said it had held meetings with the home secretary, Suella Braverman, the security minister, Tom Tugendhat, and senior police officers to ensure measures are taken to protect the Jewish community.

Co-Chairs of the British Indian Jewish Association (BIJA), Dr Peter Chadha and Zaki

the Israeli people endures during this harrowing time."

Jogia MBE, Ameet Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Hendon, home to a significant Jewish population, said, “We are all deeply shocked and saddened by the devastating terrorist attacks by Hamas in Israel over the weekend. The attacks were abhorrent and particularly sad that they took place during the Jewish holidays especially at a time when people were celebrating with their friends and families.

“As the Parliamentary candidate for Hendon - one of the most Jewish constituencies in the UK - I strongly condemn these attacks and I firmly stand with Israel. I will continue to do all I can to make sure that the British Jewish community feel safe and I have been in touch with the police and security authorities to increase provisions where possible.”

The most substantial Jewish communities can be found in Edgware and Hendon, comprising 32.6% and 31.4% of their respective populations.

Humza Yousaf concerned for family

Zaki Cooper

Cooper exclusively told Asian Voice, "BIJA is shocked and sickened by the terrorist attacks against Israel. As the organisation which acts as the forum for the friendship between the Indian and Jewish communities in Britain, we offer our full solidarity with the people of Israel at this distressing time.

“We mourn the hundreds of innocent civilians who have lost their lives, comfort the bereaved and pray for all those injured. As two minority communities in the UK, we stand shoulder to shoulder with each other, extending genuine friendship in these testing times. We utterly reject and view with contempt any attempts to attack the Jewish community and sow division at this critical juncture.

“BIJA remains steadfast in its commitment to bolstering the ties between our communities.

We will continue to provide mutual support in combating adversity, racism, and antisemitism. Our solidarity with

Humza Yousaf

Scotland's leader, Humza Yousaf has also expressed his concerns about his wife's parents being stranded in Gaza, fearing for their safety amid the recent hostilities between Hamas and Israel. His wife's parents were visiting family in Gaza when Hamas initiated a surprise attack on Israel over the weekend.

“They’re trapped in Gaza.

They’re being told by the Israelis to leave Gaza, they’ve been told that Gaza will be effectively turned into rubble but they have nowhere to go, they can’t leave, Gaza is under a blockade,” Yousaf said in an interview with the BBC.

BAPS opens its largest Hindu temple in New Jersey NEW JERSEY: Mahant Swami Maharaj inaugurated the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the largest Hindu temple ever constructed in the modern age, in New Jersey, United States. It is the largest Akshardham Temple in the whole world, covering an area of 183 acres.

The temple will be open to the general public from October 18. Yogi Trivedi, a temple volunteer and a Columbia University scholar, said, “The temple will become a must-see not only for Indian Americans, it will attract Hindus from all over the world including India.”

Numerous thousands of devotees flocked to Robbinsville, New Jersey's beautiful new Akshardham Mahamandir temple, which stands 191 feet tall. The roughly 2 million cubic feet of stone required the manual labour of artisans and volunteers for a combined total of nearly 4.7 million hours.

The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha's chief seer, Mahant

Swami Maharaj, presided over the inauguration ceremony, which began in Robbinsville, New Jersey, about six o'clock IST. Religious leaders representing Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Hinduism participated in an interfaith Harmony Day celebration at the temple prior to the official opening in order to reduce barriers and strengthen human ties.

In his message on the occasion,

Brahmvihari Swami said, “Bhagwan Swaminarayan emphasised that our love should not be confined to our own followers but should extend to people of all faiths and to the natural world. When our love expands to encompass the entire universe, the universe becomes a part of our heart.

Akshardham symbolises the largest heart one can possess, a heart that warmly welcomes everyone, regardless of their race, color, caste, or nationality.”

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Sikkim flash flood death toll touches 82 Hope of finding survivors among those missing since Wednesday's monster flash flood in North Sikkim fast faded as nine more bodies washed ashore downstream of the Teesta on Sunday, taking the casualty count to 82.

Officials said 49 of the confirmed victims of the flood that cut a swathe through the Teesta basin were found in Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar districts of Bengal and a few in Bangladesh. Nine of the bodies retrieved so far are of Army personnel, 23 of whom went missing from a temporary camp at Burdang on the night of the catastrophe triggered by a glacial lake outburst flood, or GLOF, in South Lhonak Lake. Only one among the missing

soldiers has been found alive so far. Jalpaiguri SP Khandabahale Umesh Ganpat said 39 bodies had been found in the district, 10 of which had been identified and handed over to the authorities. Six of these were of soldiers, he told reporters.

Cooch Behar SP Dyutiman Bhattacharya said four bodies were

retrieved from Bangladesh.

Former footballer Bhaichung Bhutia, a native of Sikkim, launched a campaign for relief and rehabilitation of people displaced by the flash flood. The drive, "Play for Teesta", is in collaboration with an NGO. Bhaichung appealed to sportspersons across the

Army set for massive drill to test new-gen weapons, technologies The Army is preparing for a significant combat exercise to evaluate new weapon systems and technologies as well as to validate fresh ideas in long-range weaponry, battle-readiness, and force preservation, including lessons from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Sources revealed that preparations are in full swing on the western front in Rajasthan for the ‘Trishakti Prahar’ exercise of the 21 Corps, which is one of the four major “strike formations” of the 12,00,000 strong Army.

“The final phase of the two side exercise will be in the first half of November.

Over 30,000 troops, T-90S and Arjun main battle tanks,

a wide array of howitzers, choppers and the like are participating in the exercise.

Fighter jets, Apache attack and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters and other aircraft from the IAF and Navy will also be there,” a source said.

Integrated air-land and combined arms operations, swifter mobilisation and deep-strike offensive capabilities, including “degradation by long-range vectors and precision highvolume strikes” backed by ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) and electronic warfare capabilities, will all be tested during the war game.

“Better mobility and effective shoot-and-scoot capabilities, another crucial

ED arrests AAP Rajya Sabha MP in liquor probe Sanjay Singh, the Rajya Sabha member of the AAP, was detained by the Enforcement Directorate as part of its investigation into the Delhi excise policy. This development involves the AAP leadership in the scandal surrounding alleged corruption in the allocation of liquor vends by the Arvind Kejriwal administration.

After a full day of searches of Singh's home and other locations in the city, he was taken into jail. A special court later remanded him into the custody of ED for five days. Singh claimed he was being arrested “without any evidence” and his party said the ED’s action was “completely illegal” and showed BJP’s “frustration” as it was going to lose the 2024 polls to the INDIA bloc. BJP on its part mounted a blistering attack on Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, accusing him of being the “kingpin” of the alleged scam and said “handcuffs” were

Sanjay Singh

not far away.

A day after a local court accepted the plea of two of the key accused in the scam, Dinesh Arora, a prominent liquor trader in the city, and Raghav Magunta, to turn approvers, the vocal RS member was arrested. He is the second AAP leader after deputy CM Manish Sisodia to be jailed in connection with the liquor scam.

The ED had already put on record Arora’s alleged association with Singh in the chargesheets filed earlier in the money laundering case.

Singh, before his arrest, again refuted charges and denied any links to the liquor cartel, calling his arrest “political vendetta”.

force-preservation lesson from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, will be another focus area. Similarly, armed swarm drones and loitering munitions or kamikaze drones will also be in play,” the source said.

The Army has made significant emergency procurements (EP) in response to the ongoing military conflict with China in eastern Ladakh, which has been going on for four years now. These EP include specialised technologies like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs/drones), precision guided missiles, loiter munitions, counter-drone, communication, and automatic spectrum monitoring systems.

world to join the cause.

"We also request the government of India to restore road connectivity through NH10 as it is the lifeline of the state," he said in Siliguri.

The list of missing people almost doubled to 142, based on freshly collated data from Namchi and Pakyong districts of Sikkim. Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang announced ex gratia of Rs 400,000 to the families of each of those who died in the flash flood. Families of those still missing, especially tourists, spent another agonising day waiting for news from Sikkim amid multiple abortive attempts by rescue helicopters to reach those believed to be stranded in Lachen, Lachung and Chungthang.

Afghan embassy in Delhi still open despite closure announcement, says India Days after the embassy declared it was closing, the Indian foreign ministry confirmed that the Afghan embassy in New Delhi is still operating.

Despite not recognising the Taliban government in Afghanistan, India has given the ambassador and mission personnel, who were chosen by the administration of deposed Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, permission to manage trade negotiations and issue visas. The embassy declared last week that it would stop operating in India as of October 1. A number of charges were listed, one of which was that the Indian government had not provided any help.

Rejecting the claims, Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "I don't think they are factually correct".

“Our understanding is that the embassy in New Delhi is functioning," Bagchi told reporters. He added that the foreign ministry had been informed of the embassy's decision to halt operations and was in touch with Afghan diplomats at the embassy and consulates in Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

“We are also aware that there has been a prolonged absence of the ambassador, and that a large number of Afghan diplomats have left India in the recent past,” Bagchi said.

Canada shifts most of its envoys posted in India to Singapore, Malaysia The majority of Canada's ambassadors in India reportedly moved to Malaysia and Singapore. In order to maintain parity with India's diplomatic representation in nations in North America, the Indian government had earlier requested that Canada recall 41 diplomats from India.

The development came after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed that Indian operatives were involved in the murder of Khalistan leader and Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim that Indian authorities said has not yet been supported by any proof.

Police raid 100 locations linked to web portal NewsClick Prabir Purkayashta, the editor-in-chief of the web portal NewsClick, and Amit Chakravarty, the director of human resources, were detained by the Special Cell of the Delhi Police following coordinated raids at over 100 locations across the nation. Police are looking into claims that the portal spread propaganda from China and received unlawful funds from that country. Some of its employees and consultants are also on the radar.

The raids were conducted in connection with an FIR filed under the stringent UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) and sections of IPC. The portal’s office in south Delhi was sealed by the police.

Forty-six people, including journalists and employees linked to the portal, were questioned. “Thirty seven male suspects have been questioned at the premises while nine female suspects have been questioned at their respective places of stay, and digital devices, documents etc have been seized for examination,” a Delhi Police spokesperson said.

The proceedings are still on; so far, two accused, Prabir Purkayastha and Amit Chakravarty, have been arrested,” the spokesperson added. The two were arrested after several hours of questioning with a cop, alleging that they didn’t cooperate in the investigation and appeared to be giving tutored answers. According to the officer, this made the investigating officer's custodial interrogation necessary. In Delhi, Mumbai, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and Gurugram, there were numerous raids at various places. The company's offices and the homes of journalists and other online staff members were searched.

Amid concerns that a reduction in Canada’s diplomatic strength could delay visas for Indian nationals, particularly students, the government had said that its focus now is on ensuring parity as Canadian diplomats continued to interfere in India’s internal affairs.

According to a report in CTV News, Ottawa has until October 10 to reduce its diplomatic staff to a level that is comparable to the number of Indian ambassadors stationed in Canada.

Canada was expressly asked to remove 41 diplomats in order to achieve balance.

“A majority of Canadian diplomats working in India

outside of Delhi have been evacuated to either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore,” the report said.

Meanwhile, the US reiterated support for Canada’s probe into Nijjar’s killing calling it a terrible assassination. “Let me just say that we support Canada’s investigation. We want everyone - including the Indian government - to help advance the investigation into this terrible assassination, and we would urge everyone to cooperate and to take the investigation as far as it goes,” said the US Global Engagement Center (GEC) special envoy James Rubin.

The GEC works under the US State Department.

India registers protest with US over its Pak envoy’s PoK visit India has lodged a complaint with the US on Donald Blome, the US ambassador to Pakistan, visiting Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), according to the government.

Blome had previously been to this area, which India has repeatedly stated is still under the unlawful possession of Pakistan, twice in the previous two years.

India had last year too raised the issue with US authorities. “Our position on the entire Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir being an integral part of India is well known.

We would like to urge the international community to respect our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” said MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.

Blome recently paid a three-day visit to the GilgitBaltistan region, where he

met with regional leaders, according to Pakistani media. Eric Garcetti, the US ambassador to India, had defended the trip by pointing out that an earlier G20 group from the US had also visited Jammu & Kashmir. However, the MEA claimed that the two circumstances were not "equivalent."

“We have raised our concerns about that visit by the US ambassador of Pakistan with the US side.

On the comments made by the US ambassador to India, we don’t think the two situations are equivalent,’’ said the Indian official.

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After apex court prod, Centre Armed forces sealed £2.35 bn deals in last one year amid LAC row sends 70 names for HC judges The Centre informed the Supreme Court that it had cleared 70 names forwarded by high courts for judicial positions and sent to the SC collegium, as well as made the decision to transfer 12 high court judges out of the 26 recommended. The Centre had been pressed by the court to swiftly clear the names sent for judicial positions or prepare for some unpleasant order.

Additionally, it stated that out of the 19 names suggested, the government would soon adopt the collegium's recommendations for the appointment of the Chief Justice of Manipur

and five judges in various HCs. The Centre was given until October 9 to come up with "some results" or be prepared to deal with issues.

The apex court set this deadline after taking a dim view of the Center's decision to hold onto the 89 names that were recommended for judgeships and its failure to act on the collegium's recommendation for the transfer of 26 high court judges and the appointment of 19 new judges.

At the outset of hearing, a SC bench praised attorney general R Venkataramani for convincing the govern-

ment to clear the names.

At the outset of hearing, a bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia praised attorney general R Venkataramani for convincing the government to clear the names. Justice Kaul, who is part of the SC collegium, said that collegium received 70 names from the law ministry and it would examine them and take a decision most probably within two weeks before Durga Puja holidays. The AG said that the government would take a call on remaining recommendations pending before it.

Last year, the armed forces linked contracts totaling almost £2.35 billion under emergency capital procurements to close crucial operational gaps in the midst of the ongoing military conflict with China in eastern Ladakh, which is now in its fourth year.

The emergency procurements (EPs) cover a wide range of items, such as radars, loiter and precision-guided munitions, drones, counterdrone systems, satellite and other communication systems, radars, and surveillance equipment. They also cover personal protection gear, all-terrain vehicles, and high-mobility reconnaissance vehicles.

“The revenue EPs, which are also substantial, are separate. EPs followed a fast-track procedure. They are different from big capital acquisition cases that follow the normal longwinded procurement procedure,” a defence establishment source said.

The armed forces have reason to be pleased. The Army alone chalked up over 70 capital acquisition deals worth nearly £1.1 billion in the EP-4 tranche from September 2022 to September 2023. The IAF, in turn, inked 65 contracts worth over £800 million, while it was 35 cases worth £450 million for the Navy in this timeframe, sources said.

Interestingly, unlike the first three tranches that also saw deals with countries like Russia, Israel and France, the last EP-4 was reserved for procurements only from domestic manufacturers. Other than domestic sources, the EPs previously included Israeli 'Heron' Mark-2 unmanned aerial vehicles and 'Spike' anti-tank guided missiles as well as French 'Hammer' airto-ground precision-guided munitions for the new Rafale fighter jets. These weapons are designed to destroy bunkers and hardened shelters at a range of 20 to 70 km.

Indian woman spends a day ED summons many Bollywood stars in as British High Commissioner connection with Mahadev betting case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has called numerous A-list Bollywood celebrities in relation to the Mahadev betting application case. The anti-money laundering organisation has asked everyone, from actor Ranbir Kapoor to comedian Kapil Sharma, to appear at its Mumbai office so that it may conduct an investigation.

The organisation in mid-September provided details of its case concerning the online money laundering case connected with the Mahadev Online Book Betting application. It is an umbrella syndicate accused of empowering illegal betting sites on the web platforms to register new users, make user IDs and laundering cash via layered web of bank accounts.

According to sources, the ED is looking into some 100 people, including wellknown figures and influential people, for their alleged involvement in the moneylaundering case. These famous people participated in or gave performances during the grandiose wedding celebration of the promoter's CEO, Sourabh Chandrakar, in early February and the organisation's victory party in September 2022.

The organisation promoted by Sourabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal coordinated an extravagant wedding in the United Arab Emirates in which around £20 million was paid in cash.

Authorities claimed that the Mahadev Online Book Application is managed from a central headquarters in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as shown by the ED examination. It operates by franchising "Panel/Branches" to their verified partners at a profit margin of 70% to 30%.

The investigation agency had summoned Huma Qureshi and Hina Khan for allegedly promoting the application.

Currently, Bollywood actor Shraddha Kapoor is being summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Mahadev money-laundering case.

Shraddha Kapoor is supposed to show up before the ED. Lastly, Huma Qureshi and Hina Khan were summoned for allegedly promoting the application and comedian Kapil Sharma for going to the success party of Mahadev Book app in Dubai.

World Hindu Congress 2023 to be held in Bangkok from Nov 24 The World Hindu Congress 2023 will be held in Bangkok, Thailand from November 24 to 26. The theme is Jayasya Aayatanam Dharma, meaning “Dharma, the Abode of Victory.” Seven parallel thematic conferences to articulate the values, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Hindus in all their vibrance and glory will constitute this WHC. The conferences will provide space to discuss and deliberate upon the opportunities and challenges facing Hindus across the world and how to address them valiantly. These conferences will also focus on areas of strategic importance to Hindus and provide avenues for collaboration among Hindu leaders, activists, and thinkers for the Hindu resurgence.

Swami Vigyananand, Jt. General Secretary of Vishva Hindu Parishad shared more details about the WHC and said, “The essence of the WHC lies in its ability to create a shared vision and purpose among Hindus worldwide. By uniting individuals, organizations, and leaders under a common umbrella, the Congress facilitates meaningful conversations, innovative ideas, and strategic collaborations that pave the way for a brighter future.”

Hindus are a 1.2 billion-strong community, comprising 16% of the world’s population with a presence in around 200 countries in the 21st Century. Across the

Swami Vigyananand

world, Hindus have been leaders and catalysts in all spheres of human endeavour including business, economy, education, governance, media, technology, and culture. As a civilisation, we have always aspired for a Dharmic world that is prosperous, just, and peaceful. However, such aspirations can only be realised if the Hindu leadership - spread across nations, societies, and cultures - comes together to organise and combine its energies for global welfare, said Swami Vigyananandji.

He said, “The WHC enables all Hindu leaders, activists, thinkers, and influencers to come together and work towards a common vision. It provides the Hindus a platform to connect, share ideas and inspire each other for the greater common good.”

Shreya Dharmarajan, 21, of Chennai served as the British High Commissioner to India for a full day, giving her a unique glimpse into the job of a diplomat and allowing her to witness the UK-India alliance in action.

Since 2017, the International Day of the Girl Child (October 11) has been marked by the British High Commission in New Delhi by hosting the 'High Commissioner for a Day' competition. The UK is committed to working with girls and giving them more influence so they may be future leaders and change-makers.

The winning entry for this year was selected from over 180 applications submitted by deserving young women around the nation. As a Teach for India fellow, Shreya teaches political science in a government

school in Mumbai.

She graduated with a bachelor's degree from Lady Shri Shreya Dharmarajan Ram College in with Alex Ellis Delhi.

Shreya Dharmarajan, High Commissioner for the Day, said: “Spending a day as the British High Commissioner to India was an incredibly enlightening, enriching, and fulfilling experience. I had the opportunity to interact with and learn from inspiring exemplars of women's leadership in wide-ranging fields. I was fortunate enough to be a part of lively discussions about India’s efforts toward further achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

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in brief

SOUTH INDIA

PM Modi claims KCR wanted to join NDA, his son hits back HYDERABAD: Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao - who has in the past been a fierce critic of the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi - wanted to join the party-led National Democratic Alliance "but I refused him entry", the PM claimed while campaigning for the Assembly election in the state. Shortly afterwards the Telangana leader's son, KT Rama Rao, responded, saying his father would never be "mad enough to want to join the NDA".

In dramatic fashion the Prime Minister declared Rao, or KCR as he is known, and his Bharat Rashtra Samithi made multiple attempts to join the NDA. These were personally rebuffed, the PM told a cheering crowd. "I said, 'we won't cheat people of Telangana. After that his mind was rattled."

The PM - whose BJP won a solitary seat in the 2018 Telangana election and is without a government in South India - said his refusal angered and "changed" KCR, whom he also accused of corruption and nepotism in an all-out attack in Nizamabad, about 180 km from state capital Hyderabad.

"I am going to tell you a secret... 100 per cent truth," the Prime Minister began,

K Chandrashekhar Rao & Narendra Modi

"When municipal elections happened (in 2020), nobody got a majority. BJP won 48 seats... KCR needed support. KCR showered me with love... gave me a shawl. This was not in KCR's character. And then he asked me to include him in NDA. 'You help us in Hyderabad municipality (election)', he said," the PM said. "I refused... told him we won't cheat of people of Telangana," the PM continued.

"They (the BRS) got angry (after being refused entry to the NDA). But then he (KCR) came back... told me he now wants to give all responsibility to KTR (KT Rama Rao, his son). 'I will send KTR, you please bless him', KCR told me..." the Prime Minister claimed.

TN assembly passes resolution against Karnataka over Cauvery water CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a resolution unanimously urging the Centre to direct the Karnataka government to release water to Tamil Nadu as per the directions of the Cauvery Water Management Authority.

Moving the resolution, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said, "In order to protect the livelihood of the Cauvery delta farmers, this august House unanimously urges the union government to direct the Karnataka government to release water to Tamil Nadu as per the direction of the Cauvery Water Management Authority."

The leader of opposition in Tamil Nadu Assembly and AIADMK's Edappadi Palaniswami said that getting water from Karnataka is tough and all parties in the state will have to unite over this issue.

Adding that national parties have been ruling the state alternatively, he said,"We should put pressure on Centre and make sure we get our share of water from them."

Questioning the DMK's stand on the Cauvery issue, EPS said,"We made Parliament stand still for 22 days on Cauvery issue. But you DMK MPs did not raise this issue and put pressure on the Union Government."

PUNJAB

Cong’s march to Punjab Raj Another run-in with governor likely as AAP to call House meeting Bhavan over SYL foiled, party leaders detained

CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party government seems to be headed for yet another run-in with Governor Banwarilal Purohit by deciding to convene a meeting of the Vidhan Sabha session rather than seeking permission from the latter for holding a fresh session of the House.

This is exactly what the state government had done while convening the previous special session of the Vidhan Sabha in June.

The Governor had later declared the session as breach of law and four important Bills passed in the session are still languishing in Punjab Raj Bhavan.

Highly placed sources in the government as well as the Vidhan Sabha say that since the fourth session of the Vidhan Sabha (that began in March) has not been prorogued, the Speaker can call a meeting of the Vidhan Sabha on his own and no permission is required to be taken from the Governor. The meeting is to be called, as discussed by the Cabinet last week, on the SutlejYamuna Link canal issue, pay homage to MS Swaminathan and protest against the use of central agencies by

Banwarilal Purohit

the BJP-led Centre against its political adversaries.

“The Governor will be informed of the meeting being proposed. There are several precedents to this. The Telangana Government had convened the eighth session of the Vidhan Sabha on September 17, 2021, which was not prorogued. In between, meetings of the Vidhan Sabha had been held in February and September 2022 and January and July 2023. Even during the eighth session of the Lok Sabha, a meeting was reconvened after the session was adjourned sine die, but had not been prorogued,” said a senior government officer. He added that the two parts of the Lok Sabha session (preceding and following the period of adjournment of the Lok Sabha sine die) was treated as one session, divided into two parts.

CHANDIGARH: In a bid to turn on the heat on the BJPled Central Government, Punjab Congress leaders on Monday tried to march towards Punjab Raj Bhavan to submit a memorandum on SYL canal issue to the Governor, but were taken into preventive custody.

The leaders wanted the Governor to take a stand in favour of Punjab. PPCC chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring said the state does not have a single drop of water to share and that the Central Government was working against the interest of the state.

Warring blamed the current AAP regime as well as the Centre for the crisis. “The Central Government has always acted against the interests of Punjab, be it the three farm laws, withholding the release of our RDF fund, insufficient release of funds to flood victims and now this issue of constructing the SYL canal,” he said.

Warring claimed that, “The BJP conveniently diverts all difficult decision-making issues to the Supreme Court. On the delicate issue related to Punjab waters, the BJP gave an affidavit to the apex court that it was beyond them to resolve the issue via arbitration, so the court must decide on the same.”

Meanwhile, Partap Singh Bajwa, Leader of the Opposition, warned that even though he respected the decision of the people of Punjab to vote for ‘badlaav’, “this ‘badlaav’ will cost Punjab dear”. He said the AAP government had a number of flaws, the most harmful being it’s inexperience to handle power.

WEST BENGAL

14 KILLED IN BENGALURU FIRECRACKER SHOP FIRE The death count in the fire accident at a cracker shop near Bengaluru reached 14 following the death of two more people, police sources said. While 12 people were charred to death on the spot at the shop-cum-godown at Attibele in Anekal Taluk, two others died while undergoing treatment. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar visited the spot and announced a compensaton of Rs 500,000 each to the kin of victims. Most of those who died were employed at the shop, police said, adding efforts are being taken to ascertain the identity of the victims. The incident occurred around 3.30 pm while unloading firecracker cartons from a vehicle. "Some employees were working inside the shop when the fire broke out," SP (Bengaluru Rural) said. "More than nine fire tenders were pressed into service, which has brought the fire under control," he added. The shop owner was stockpiling these crackers in view of Navaratri and Deepavali.

SC ADJOURNS NAIDU'S PLEA IN SKILL DEVELOPMENT CASE The Supreme Court adjourned its hearing on Telugu Desam chief Chandrababu Naidu’s plea to quash the FIR in the skill development scam case. The Leader of Opposition filed a Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the top court challenging an order passed by the AP High Court declining to quash the FIR in the skill development scam case. Justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela Trivedi, hearing Naidu's petition to quash the FIR in the case, will hear the arguments of AP CID. The CID is represented by advocate Mukul Rohatgi. Justices Anirudhha Bose and Bela Trivedi heard the arguments on the applicability of Section 17-A of the Prevention of Corruption Act in the case. The court heard Naidu’s counsel Harish Salve and sought clarity on the application of Section 17-A quoting several high court judgments that interpreted 17-A differently.

6 OF A FAMILY KILLED AS FIRE ENGULFS HOUSE A devastating fire tore through a residence in Avtar Nagar in Jalandhar, killing six people, including three children. Police are investigating the cause, suspecting a refrigerator compressor burst, releasing gas that quickly spread in the house and became uncontrollable. Seven people were present in the house at the time of the incident, with another in the outer area, according to Raj Ghai, the elder brother of the owner of the house and one of the deceased. The victims were identified are Yashpal Ghai (65), son Inderpal, daughter-in-law Ruchi, and their three children. The mother, who was outside at the time, is the sole survivor. Neighbours reported hearing a blast-like sound, prompting them to call the fire brigade. However, the children had already suffered serious injuries.

DCP Jagmohan Singh confirmed the suspected refrigerator blast as the possible cause but emphasised that the investigation is ongoing.

CBI searches homes of TMC minister, other party leaders BENGAL GOVERNOR'S

KOLKATA: CBI on Sunday unleashed multiple teams of investigators, escorted by central forces, on a host of Trinamool politicians, searching the homes of West Bengal urban development minister and Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim, and veteran politician and Kamarhati MLA Madan Mitra, apart from nearly a dozen former and present office-bearers of municipalities, in connection with the municipality recruitment scam probe.

The searches come when the Trinamool, under its national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee’s leadership, is on a round-the-clock vigil outside Raj Bhavan after Abhishek’s Delhi visit to press for the release of central funds for the state.

Besides Hakim and Mitra, some of the

Firhad Hakim and Madan Mitra

prominent politicians searched were Dum Dum chairperson Harendra Singh, New Barrackpore’s former chairperson Tripti Majumdar, Krishnanagar’s former chairperson Asim Saha and Halisahar’s exchairperson Anshuman Roy. The CBI team was at Hakim’s Chetla residence for around nine-and-a-half

hours. “We have been slapped with false cases during the Left Front regime, but never was I insulted so much,” said Hakim after the officers left. “Why so much harassment? Am I a thief ? Is it because I will not bow down before BJP? I could not even attend the shradh (40th-day mourning) of my brother today.”

He said he had given officers “every document they asked for, including identity proofs, property details and even a list of all jewellery inside the house”.

Mitra joked about the personal nature of questioning: “They asked me if I had one or two wives. It is official, on record. I told them they can investigate that.”

TMC reacted saying the searches were part of “a plan and a political shield to defend the BJP”.

ASSURANCE TO TMC OVER DUES West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose assured a Trinamool Congress delegation led by party general secretary Abhishek Banerjee of taking up the issue of MGNREGA dues to the state with the central government, an official said. Governor Bose held a meeting with TMC leaders at Raj Bhavan, as demanded by the party earlier, and also informed them that he will do whatever is required for the welfare of the people of the state. During the meeting, the governor assured the delegation that he will take up the matter to the notice of the government of India and whatever is required for the welfare of the people of Bengal will be done, the official said.

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EC announces assembly poll schedule for 5 states The Election Commission announced a 24-day polling window from November 7 to November 30 to kick off the assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Mizoram, the final contest before the general election of 2024.

Chhattisgarh will be the only state to hold elections in two phases, with voting taking place in the

Naxal-infested south on November 7 and the

northern half of the state bordering Madhya Pradesh

Can’t bar parties from promising poll sops: SC The Supreme Court ruled that it had no control over political parties' ability to make a variety of electionnight promises, but it did decide to request responses from Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, the Centre, and the Election Commission in response to a PIL that claimed that the chief ministers of states that were going to the polls had announced irrational cash doles that were driving these states into financial difficulties.

“Before elections, all kinds of promises are made. We Can't control it,” said a three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud when a PIL filed by Bhattulal Jain came up for hearing. Jain’s counsel said that cash doles promised by the CM of Madhya Pradesh, which is facing financial constraints, would put the state in a precarious condition financially and the burden would be passed on

to the taxpayers after the polls.

The CJI questioned the petitioner's attorney about Jain's decision to approach the SC directly rather than requesting that the Madhya Pradesh high court hear his recent unsuccessful attempt to address this matter. The attorney then claimed that a similar cash handout had also been announced by the chief minister of Rajasthan.

PM Modi: Congress trying to divide Hindus, deprive minorities Rahul Gandhi's latest proposal for a caste-based census was challenged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who said that it was an attempt to split Hindu society at the behest of hostile foreign forces who were working behind the scenes and through handlers. “The Congress has been outsourced. The party, being hand in glove with antiIndia forces, is trying to divide Hindu society and wants to destroy the country. The Congress wants to divide the poor of the country,” the PM said at a rally at Jagdalpur in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region.

The comments were made a day after the government of Bihar announced the results of its caste-based poll, sparking concern that the demand for a similar

Narendra Modi

study across the country and in other states may have put the BJP in a difficult position because the saffron party would find it challenging to oppose the campaign started by invoking the rights of the OBCs who make up the majority.

He said resources should be allocated on the basis of poverty as it was the poor

who were in a majority and constituted the biggest caste. “For me, they (the poor) are the biggest caste and, hence, entitled to the biggest share, they have the first claim on a country’s resources,” Modi said while referring to his welfare schemes which, according to him, had generated self confidence among the poor.

First test flight of ISRO's Gaganyaan mission on October 21 The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will carry out the first of several test flights ahead of the Gaganyaan mission on October 21, Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said. The test vehicle development flight (TV-D1) will be conducted at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh to test the crew module that is scheduled to house Indian astronauts during the human spaceflight late next year.

The test involves launching the module to outer space, bringing it

back to earth and recovering it after touchdown in the Bay of Bengal. The Navy has already started mock operations to recover the module, Singh said at a felicitation programme of the ISRO engineers involved in the Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya L-1 missions.

Along with the crew module, the TV-D1 will also test the "crew escape" system that is expected to bring back the crew to earth if the spacecraft faces a problem while ascending into space.

The success of the test

will set the stage for the first unmanned "Gaganyaan" mission and ultimately, manned mission to outer space in a low-earth orbit, the minister said.

Before the ultimate manned "Gaganyaan" mission, there will be a test flight next year, which will carry "Vyommitra", a female robot astronaut, he added.

The Gaganyaan project envisages a demonstration of the human spaceflight capability by launching a human crew to an orbit of 400 km and bringing them safely back to earth by landing in Indian sea waters

on November 17. Elections in the other three states will take place on a single day on November 7 in Mizoram, November 23 in Rajasthan, and November 30 in Telangana. Just over 160 million voters are eligible to vote to choose their representatives for 679 assembly segments across the five states. Chief election commissioner Rajiv Kumar, who was flanked by election commissioners

Anup Chandra Pandey and Arun Goel at the press conference to announce the poll dates, said this amounted to one-sixth of the country’s voters and assembly constituencies.

Being the final round before the country goes into general election mode, these polls have often been dubbed the “semi-final”.

The analogy to sports may not be appropriate

because the results of these battles have deviated from the "final" for the past 20 years, but the impact of the outcome on the morale of the participants, their troops, and competing narratives cannot be overstated. They are crucial as they cover three states from the Hindi belt where BJP and Congress are in a direct contest.

Counting of votes will be held on December 3.

NC-Congress alliance wins 22 seats in LAHDC-Kargil polls In the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council-Kargil election, the National Conference and Congress combined gained 22 seats, according to officials.

Ladakh was divided into a Union Territory when Article 370 of the Constitution was repealed, and the election to the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC)-Kargil was the first election to be held.

Twenty-six seats of the council went to polls on October 4. The administration nominates four members with voting rights to the 30-member council.

According to the officials, National Conference (NC) won 12 seats, making it the single largest party, while its ally Congress registered victory in 10. BJP won two seats, while two Independent candi-

dates also registered victory, they said.

77.61% of voters cast ballots in the election. On October 1, the current council, led

by NC member Feroz Ahmad Khan, finished its five-year term. Prior to October 11, the new council will be in place. Despite announcing a pre-election cooperation, NC and Congress only put out 17 and 22 candidates, respectively. They had claimed that the arrangement was only applicable to regions where the BJP faced a formidable opponent.

BJP, which won one seat in the last election and later took its tally to three with the joining of two PDP councillors, had fielded 17 candidates this time. Aam Aadmi Party tried its luck on four seats while 25 Independents were also in the fray.

SC refuses to restrain Bihar from acting on caste survey data The Bihar government was asked to refrain from making future choices based on its caste survey of the state, but the Supreme Court rejected the request, stating that it would be improper to stop a government from making a policy decision.

A bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and SVN Bhatti said the Patna HC verdict, upholding the state’s decision to hold a caste survey, was very detailed and a challenge to it had to be heard in detail. As the petitioners made a fervent plea to direct the state to maintain status quo, the bench

said it wouldn't be right to pass such an order as data was very important because policy decisions were taken on the basis of data. “We can’t stop the state government. Preventing the government from taking decisions on policy would be wrong,” the bench said.

Senior advocate Aprajita Singh, appearing for one of the petitioners, said it was very unfair on the part of the state government to disclose the caste data when the matter was pending before the apex court. She said the state had pre-empted the court proceedings and urged the

bench to restrain the state from taking any further action on the basis of the survey.

The state government opposed her request, and its lawyer, advocate Shyam Divan, argued that neither a stay order nor a notice to the state had been given regarding the group of appeals against the HC order. A caste survey was being conducted, according to Aprajita, in violation of various laws, including peoples' rights to privacy. She also maintained that the HC judgement was incorrect on numerous other points.

Ambani overtakes Adani to become richest Indian on Hurun list Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani overtook Adani Group’s Gautam Adani to become the richest Indian in the rankings of the 360 ONE Wealth Hurun India Rich List 2023, which was released on Tuesday.

Ambani's net worth increased slightly by 2% to £80.8 billion. However, following a claim by a USbased short seller against the group, Gautam Adani's fortune dropped by 57% to £47.4 billion, causing a significant stock fall in his group enterprises this year.

In a study on the Adani Group that was released in January, short seller Hindenburg Research claimed that the conglomerate had engaged in

Mukesh Ambani

"brazen stock market manipulation" and committed accounting irregularities over a long period of time.

The promoter family's fortune declined as a result of the report's significant fall in the group stocks. The short seller's accusations have all been refuted by The Adani Group. The Hurun 2023 list features a total of 1,319 people from 138 cities and utilises August 30 as the

basis date to gauge fortunes.

Cyrus Poonwalla, MD and Chairman of Serum Institute of India (SII), maintained his ranking as the third-richest Indian despite a 36% increase in wealth to £27.8 billion. Shiv Nadar, the founder and chairman of HCL Technologies, continued to rank as the fourth richest Indian despite seeing a 23% growth in his wealth to £22.8 l billion.

A majority of individuals in the top-10 rankings climbed up their spots, including Gopichand Hinduja who is ranked fifth now, Dilip Shanghvi (sixth), L N Mittal (seventh), Kumar Mangalam Birla (ninth) and Niraj Bajaj (tenth).

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EXPLORING INDIA'S STUNNING STEPWELLS

S

tepwells, are ingenious structures comprising wells or ponds connected to a lengthy series of steps that descend to the water level. These stepwells held a pivotal role in shaping subterranean architecture in western India spanning from the 7th century to the 19th century.

India boasts a plethora of magnificent stepwells, celebrated not only for their architectural grandeur but also as significant historical and cultural icons.

These stepwells, referred to as "vavs" in the local parlance, represent a unique form of subterranean water management and storage systems that have been in existence since the third millennium BC. Particularly prominent in regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan, stepwells served as vital reservoirs and communal meeting spots.

Of around 2000 surviving stepwells in India, here’s a list of some famous and some underrated ones that you can plan on visiting: Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat: This renowned

stepwell in Patan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as one of India's most celebrated examples of stepwell architecture. It is distinguished for its intricate carvings and splendid design, a testament to the devotion of Queen Udayamati. In the 11th century, the Queen commissioned the construction of this stepwell in loving memory of her husband, King Bhimdev I, from the Solanki Dynasty.

The stepwell's architecture is an example of fine craftsmanship and is fashioned in the Maru-Gurjara architectural style. Embarking on a journey through this prestigious stepwell, one can bear witness to the sanctity and reverence that permeates the site, accentuated by a remarkable collection of over 1500 sculptures. The Vav also features on the Indian currency notes.

Book Review

“Arranged Marriage”

by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's "Arranged Marriage" is a remarkable collection of short stories that weaves together threads of emotions, culture, immigration, and mythology into an enchanting tapestry of storytelling.

Chand Baori, Rajasthan: Nestled in

heart of New Delhi, Agrasen ki Baoli is an ancient stepwell that carries with it the

legendary aura of being commissioned by King Agrasen during the Mahabharata era.

Comprising a mosaic of various stones and rocks, this architectural marvel rises gracefully from the earth, featuring 103 stone steps that lead you to its depths.

Surrounded by the bustling urban landscape of central Delhi, this hidden gem offers a tranquil and picturesque experience, making it a haven for photography enthusiasts.

Protected as a monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958 by the Archaeological Survey of India, Agrasen ki Baoli seamlessly blends history with the urban fabric.

Intriguingly, this site is renowned for its haunted reputation, with many visitors claiming to have felt a mysterious presence here on numerous occasions. Its popularity among locals soared after it served as a filming location for Raju Hirani's movie 'PK,' starring Aamir Khan.

Toorji ka Jhalra: Nestled within the heart of the historic walled city, amidst the labyrinthine alleys and ancient havelis is Toorji ka Jhalra, a stepwell with a history spanning three centuries. Crafted from the iconic rose-red sandstone synonymous with Jodhpur, this architectural marvel showcases the intricate artistry of Rajput design.

The walls of the stepwell are adorned with captivating carvings depicting dancing elephants, medieval lions, and revered cows, all embodying the rich heritage of the region. Within its niches, you'll encounter sculptures of deities venerated during the bygone eras, adding to the cultural tapestry of this timeless treasure. It was recently restored to its former glory.

Some other stepwells of India includeStepwell at Hampi, Panna Meena ka Kund, Naginala Lake, Rajon ki Baoli, Rani Padmini's Palace and Jal Mahal, Adalaj Stepwell

Comprising eleven tales, each of which deals with the difficulties of arranged marriages while being intricately entwined with Indian mythology and immigration issues, it provides a vivid and moving portrait of the lives of Indian women.

One of the unique aspects of "Arranged Marriage" is its masterful incorporation of Indian mythology. The adventures of Divakaruni's protagonists are profoundly connected to the everlasting tales of gods and goddesses through her deft integration of historical tales, legends, and myths into her works.

In stories like "The Silver Bangles," and "The Maid Servant's Story," Divakaruni skillfully weaves the mythology, which adds depth to the characters by making them more relatable and poignant.

While mythology plays a significant role in "Arranged Marriage," Divakaruni also explores the immigrant experience with great sensitivity. Many of her characters find themselves straddling two worlds: their homeland in India, steeped in tradition and mythology, and the United States, with its promise of new beginnings.

The stories become more complicated and relatable as a result of this subject, which also makes them accessible to anyone interested in exploring the complexities of cultural adaptation and the pursuit of the American Dream.

In stories like "Mrs. Dutta Writes a Letter" and "The Bats," readers witness the poignant struggles of women who grapple with the loss of their homeland's familiar

customs while adapting to the unfamiliar customs of their adopted country.

Divakaruni skillfully portrays the tension between the desire to preserve one's cultural heritage and the need to assimilate into a new society.

"Arranged Marriage" is not only a testament to Divakaruni's storytelling prowess but also her ability to shed light on the immigrant experience with empathy and authenticity. Her characters' journey are relatable to anyone who has ever had to reconcile their past with their present in a foreign land.

In conclusion, "Arranged Marriage" is a literary masterpiece that offers a captivating exploration of human emotions, cultural complexities, immigration, and the enduring power of mythology. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's ability to seamlessly blend these elements into her narratives is a testament to her storytelling prowess. Whether you are drawn to stories of love and tradition, are interested in the immigrant experience, or have a fascination with mythology, this book is a must-read.

The book allows readers to explore a world where the past and present collide, where cultural customs are woven into the fabric of daily life, and where the timeless tales of gods and goddesses enrich the human experience. It offers a distinctive and enlightening reading experience while also serving as a literary gem and a comprehensive examination of the human condition.

Abhaneri village near Jaipur, Chand Baori stands as one of the world's deepest and largest stepwells. Dating back to the 9th century, this architectural marvel consists of a series of meticulously crafted steps that descend to the water level. It boasts a precise geometric pattern, a rarity in contemporary times.

The steps create an enchanting labyrinth, with the interplay of light and shadow enhancing its captivating allure.

Surprisingly, many tourists remain unaware of the sheer magnificence of this profound stepwell, along with the exquisitely carved Harshat Mata temple that accompanies it.

A convenient deviation from the wellGolden Triangle route trodden encompassing Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, Chand Baori offers a less explored yet highly rewarding destination that warrants a visit.

Agrasen Ki Baoli, Delhi: Nestled in the

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Adults with intellectual disabilities at risk of dementia Researchers think they've discovered a link between dementia risk and intellectual impairment (ID). Both inherited and acquired factors have an impact on when it first appears. The incidence of dementia in the general population is also known to grow with lesser cognitive reserve, the capacity for thought generated via learning and deliberate mental effort.

It is uncertain how common dementia is among people with ID without Down syndrome (DS) compared to the general population, and the risk factors that influence dementia risk aren't completely recognised. In Japan, people with ID are more likely to develop dementia than the general population, and researchers have just discovered these risks.

Professor Shintaro Takenoshita, Assistant Professor in the Department of Neuropsychiatry at Okayama University Hospital, Japan, led the team.

"Diagnosing dementia in people with ID is difficult owing to the mixed effects of innate cognitive decline and the cognitive decline that occurs over time due to dementia. However, it is quite possible to diagnose dementia if cognitive and lifestyle functions are assessed chronologically based on information from family and other support persons. We believe that even in persons with intellectual disabilities, dementia needs to be properly evaluated," explains Prof. Takenoshita regarding the group's motivation to pursue the study.

Taking Greek yogurt can cure bad breath developed after eating garlic A study published in the journal "Molecules" reveals that a spoonful of Greek yogurt is helpful in eliminating the bad breath developed after eating garlic.

Ohio State University researchers found that consuming some natural yogurt may help get rid of the smell of garlic from your breath. They found that whole-milk plain yogurt are able to neutralise the sulphur-based compounds that cause the unpleasant smell.

The researchers placed equal amounts of raw garlic in glass bottles before adding different yogurts to the same bottles. They discovered yogurt was 99 per cent effective at reducing the garlic compounds, specifically, yogurt with high levels of protein and yogurts with high fat content.

Greek yogurt, which has a higher protein content than natural yogurt, may be the most effective way of combating garlic breath. Along with flavoured yogurts, which would potentially work as they are advised to be consumed shortly after a garlicky meal.

Fatty liver patients likely to suffer from personality disorder Patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are more likely to suffer from a personality disorder than people without the condition, a new study reveals.

Researchers also found that although NAFLD patients are aware that they must watch their food and exercise to keep the illness under control, they commonly engage in disordered eating habits.

NAFLD has become the most common cause of chronic liver disease in wealthy societies -

responsible for a significant rise in liver-related deaths.

Up to one in three people in the UK has fatty liver disease.

Blood test can detect signs of Alzheimer’s disease 20 years before Alzheimer’s disease continues to be a complex disorder and despite its high prevalence, there is no cure.

Moreover, current diagnostic techniques are not helpful for early diagnosis of the disease and consequently disable people from getting the right treatment.

However, new data reveals that Alzheimer's disease indicators could be seen in the blood up to 20 years before symptoms materialise. A group of Australian researchers has created a quick, inexpensive, and non-invasive blood test that may be used to forecast a person's likelihood of acquiring Alzheimer's disease up to 20 years before symptoms appear.

The Australian National University (ANU) researchers have developed a way to use nanotechnology, combined with artificial intelligence (AI), to analyse proteins in the blood to search for signs of early neurodegeneration.

The team developed an ultra-

thin silicon chip containing “nanopores” that analyse the proteins one at a time with help from an advanced AI algorithm.

In this method, a tiny sample of blood is placed on a silicon chip and put into a small, portable device the size of a phone that utilises an AI algorithm to look for signatures associated with proteins that exhibit early-onset Alzheimer's symptoms. The journal Small Methods published the findings. The fact that the same test can be used to simultaneously screen for different neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is notable.

Whilst in its early stages there may be few symptoms, the disease can progress to cirrhosis and liver failure in at risk individuals such as diabetics.

Non-alcohol steatohepatitis – a more serious form of NAFLD, where the liver has become inflamed - is the most common cause of cirrhosis in industrialised countries where deaths from liver disease have increased

fourfold over the last 50 years. from the Researchers University of Birmingham show that NAFLD patients are about three times more likely to have a personality issue than those without the condition.

The researchers recommend that personality problems be checked for in NAFLD patients; if found, these mental health issues should be treated before the patients start trying to regulate their diet and increase their physical activity.

Five yoga poses for stroke prevention and recovery Stroke is a severe medical ailment that can leave victims with ongoing physical and psychological difficulties. Yoga helps with mental and emotional healing while promoting physical strength and flexibility. This article will explore five yoga exercises that can be particularly beneficial for stroke recovery.

Child's Pose (Balasana) Child's Pose is a gentle yoga posture that can help stroke survivors improve their flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness. It involves kneeling on the floor, resting the buttocks on the heels, and reaching the arms forward while lowering the forehead to the ground.

Cat-Cow Pose (MarjaryasanaBitilasana) Cat-Cow is a simple yet effective exercise for regaining mobility and strength in the spine and core muscles. This dynamic technique, which involves rounding and arching the back while on all fours, is beneficial for stroke survivors.

Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)

Warrior II is an empowering yoga pose that enhances leg strength, stability, and balance. It involves a wide-legged stance, one foot turned out, and arms extended outward.

Tree Pose (Vrikshasana) Tree Pose is excellent for improving balance and concentration, which can be challenging for stroke survivors. Individuals can develop better stability and mental focus by standing on one leg and placing the opposite foot on the inner thigh.

Corpse Pose (Savasana) Savasana, the pinnacle of relaxation, helps stroke victims unwind and lessen stress. It entails laying flat on your back, relaxing your arms and legs, and concentrating on deep, controlled breathing.

Some quick tips to alleviate bloating Indigestion, bloating, and loss of appetite are some of the most typical problems people experience. While identifying the underlying reason is important in the long run, persistent recurrence may have you searching for a few simple home cures for quick relief.

Many people occasionally experience the familiar, unpleasant sensation of bloating. It manifests as an enlarged or inflated abdomen, frequently accompanied by gas and a feeling of fullness. Even though occasional bloating is common,

persistent bloating can be uncomfortable. Fortunately, you can try several quick remedies to alleviate this discomfort and get back to feeling your best.

Sip on peppermint tea: Drinking a warm cup of peppermint tea can help relax the muscles of your gastrointestinal tract, reducing gas and bloating. It also has a soothing effect on your stomach, making it an excellent choice for quick relief.

Ginger: Whether you sip ginger tea, chew on fresh ginger, or take ginger supplements, this potent root can help relieve gas and improve digestion.

Hydrate yourself: Drink sufficient amounts of water throughout the day as dehydration might make bloating worse. A frequent cause of bloating, constipation, can be avoided by drinking enough water to keep your digestive system operating at its best.

Probiotics: Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi contain beneficial bacteria that can balance gut flora and reduce bloating. Consider incorporating these foods into your diet to promote digestive health.

Obese women experience severe menopausal symptoms Get moving throughout the day Try using the stairs rather than the lift, go for little walks around your workspace or take a bike instead of a car. Although daily movement will keep you energised and benefit your mind and body, vigorous exercise is necessary.

Health Views Disclaimer: The information provided is for general knowledge only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Recent studies suggest that women who are obese may experience more symptoms of menopause and less relief with hormone therapy (HT).

Although HT continues to be the most effective treatment for managing various menopause symptoms, little research has been done on how comorbidities affect HT's effectiveness during menopause.

A recent five-year study attempted to bridge part of that knowledge gap by looking into the relationship between obesi-

ty and the self-reported effectiveness of HT in peri- and post-menopausal women.

Obesity was regarded in this

study as having a body mass index of 30 or more.

Dr Anita Pershad from Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk led the study. She said, "We studied menopausal symptoms in an underrepresented patient population that's not often included in women's health studies. This research can help clinicians serving a more

diverse racial and socioeconomic patient population that's severely affected by the social determinants of health to provide better tailored care and counseling to patients seeking treatment for their menopausal symptoms," says Dr. Pershad.

"This is important for healthcare professionals to consider when counseling their patients on the various options for managing their menopause symptoms," adds Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society.

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Akshay Kumar reacts to CBFC cuts in 'OMG 2,' OTT release A

kshay Kumar's 'OMG 2' finally dropped on Netflix on October 8 after facing unprecedented troubles with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which suggested 27 cuts. In an interview, the actor opened up about the OTT release of the movie and reacted to claims about the board, which thought "it was an adult film."

Janhvi Kapoor channels her inner Zeenat Aman in new Instagram video A

ctress Janhvi Kapoor recently shared a video showing a new look inspired by yesteryear actress Zeenat Aman. She even said a line from her famous song 'Laila Main Laila.'

Just like Aman, Janhvi decked up in a white dress with a fur stole and a matching string tied around her head.

Sharing the video on Instagram, Janhvi wrote, "Call me Gen Z-eenat (mirror ball emoji). Made to be iconic." She clicks herself in the mirror and says Laila Main Laila in her own style. Her look caught Zeenat's attention. The actor commented, "Stole my style, watch me steal your fanbase!"

Actor Jackie Shroff commented on the video, "@thezeenataman, time to make the comeback! Let's show these kids how it's done!" Fashion designer Manish Malhotra dropped a heart emoji in the comments section. Comparing Janhvi to her late mother, actor Sridevi, instead, a fan wrote, "This remind me of hawa hawai." Another said, "You look aesthetically beautiful." One more fan called it a "spectacular snap."

Janhvi occasionally dresses up in retro outfits and shares pictures from these photoshoots. Earlier this year, she had shared monochrome images of herself in a saree and kohl-lit eyes. She gave the blouse a miss and

roughly tied her hair in a bun adorned with flowers. She had captioned the pictures, "Miss having flowers in my hair and kohl in my eyes (weary face emoji) for now being covered in sunscreen, sweat and dust will have to do (melting face and bat emojis)." Some of her fans compared her look to late actor Smita Patil.

On the work front, Janhvi has wrapped up shooting for her upcoming film 'Mr and Mrs Mahi,' with her 'Roohi' co-star Rajkumar Rao once again. She is filming for the Telugu film 'Devara,' starring Jr NTR.

Gauri Khan says son Aryan won't let her see his luxury brand collection

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Akshay said, "I don't want to fight. I have no idea about the rules. I didn't get into the rule book. If they thought it was an adult film, then... did you all feel it is an adult film? Whoever we have shown the film to, they loved it. I made it for youngsters and I'm happy it is coming on Netflix and I'm happy about it. That's it. The important thing is that people should know about it."

After weeks of speculations over whether or not the film will receive a U/A certificate, the film was awarded an A certificate with 27 cuts by the CBFC. Akshay further added an example of how it's the collective thought process that needs to change. Recalling his experience while promoting his 2018 film 'Padman,' Akshay said, "I did a film on sanitary pads at a time when nobody would dare to hold a sanitary pad in their hand, people weren't ready to touch it. I was standing with someone, I won't name them, I was the chief guest at an event. That person came to me and whispered in my ears not to give a pad to him because 'Acchha nahi lagta' (doesn't look good), this is the kind of thinking."

'OMG 2' revolves around sex education among the young generation while highlighting prevailing misinformation. In the movie, Akshay stars as a messenger of Lord Shiva, while Pankaj Tripathi plays a devotee named Kanti Sharan Mudgal, and Yami Gautam essays the part of a lawyer. 'OMG 2' was released in theatres on August 11 to a positive response from critics and performed well at the box office.

'Jawan' creates history, grosses £110 million worldwide

nterior designer and movie producer Gauri Khan shared a picture of herself on her 53rd birthday. She took to Instagram to tease her elder son Aryan Khan's luxury clothing brand D'YAVOL X. She stood near a doorway in the photo and smiled at the camera.

She wore a printed charcoal sweatshirt and denim from D'YAVOL X. Gauri captioned the post, "Keep wondering what's coming next from @dyavol.x but @ - aryan - just Shah Rukh Khan's 'Jawan' has broken yet another record won't let me see… All he says is it's going to be worth the at the worldwide box office by becoming the first Hindi film in wait!" Several celebrities including Twinkle Khanna, the history of Indian cinema to cross £110 million worldwide.

Maheep Kapoor, Sanjay Kapoor, Shanaya Kapoor and Shah Rukh's manager, Pooja Dadlani, took to Instagram to share the news, adding that the film now stands at £ 110.32 million.

The caption read, "Jawan. Making & breaking box office records every day! Book your tickets now! Watch #Jawan in cinemas - in Hindi, Tamil & Telugu." The movie is the highestgrossing Hindi film this year, with a 23-day collection of £58.7 million. It has already beaten the Indian collection of 'Gadar 2' and 'Pathaan.' It collected £8.01 million net in India in all languages on its first Sunday in theatres.

Co-written and directed Malaika Arora among others liked the post.

by Atlee, 'Jawan' features Fans, too, wished her on her birthday. A Shah Rukh Khan in the comment read, "Happy birthday! I hope all dual role of Vikram your birthday wishes and dreams come true Rathore and his son Azad. @gaurikhan." Another person said, "Happy Deepika Padukone makes birthday to the Khan's lady. The leading force an extended cameo in the film. South actress of the family. Lots of love to you @gaurikhan."

Nayanthara makes her An Instagram user wrote, "Love and hugs.

Hindi debut, while Always stay strong and happy. You are so loved.

Vijay Sethupathi Happy Birthday ma'am. Here's to a great year and plays the lead life ahead." antagonist. The film also features Priyamani, Sanya Malhotra, Sunil A group of her fans in Mumbai even cut a cake Grover, Ridhi Dogra, Sanjeeta Bhattacharya, Girija Oak, Lehar Khan featuring her as the queen. They took a photo with a and Aaliyah Qureshi. poster that read, "Team Shah Rukh Khan Fan Club Wishes Happy Birthday Gauri Khan."

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Kareena confirms next film with Rohit Shetty K areena Kapoor has finally confirmed her next film with filmmaker Rohit Shetty on Instagram.

Currently shooting in Hyderabad, the actress took to the photo-blogging website to share a picture from the set and tagged the director.

In the picture taken from behind, Kareena stood in the middle of the road with a car upturned in the air. She settled the suspense of her next project and wrote in the caption, "Do I need to say who I am shooting for? P.S-He is one of my most favourite directors.. This is my fourth film with him…and of course not the last.. Ready Steady Go… @itsrohitshetty" Kareena and Rohit have worked earlier in 'Golmaal 3' in

2010 and 'Singham Returns' in 2014. It is also reported that Rohit wanted to cast Kareena opposite Shah Rukh Khan in 'Chennai Express,' however, she had to opt out because of date clashes. The role later went to Deepika Padukone.

Meanwhile, in another revelation, actor Ranveer Singh commented on the post, "this is my fourth film with him too! And my first with YOU!" On the work front, Kareena has Hansal Mehta's next and 'The Crew' in the pipeline. She was last seen in the thriller 'Jaane Jaan,' alongside Vijay Varma and Jaideep Ahlawat. The film was an adaption of Higashino Keigo's bestselling 2005 novel 'The Devotion of Suspect X.'

Being compared to Shah Rukh was the 'worst thing,' says Shahid I

Vijay Varma says paps lost their minds when he started seeing Tamannaah A

n a recent interview, actor Shahid Kapoor revealed it was not so great for him when he was compared to Shah Rukh Khan in his younger days in the film industry. He said it is the "dumbest logic" that you will also be successful if you are like some successful person.

Talking about being compared to Shah Rukh, Shahid said, "It's the worst thing that can happen. Why should you be the next anything? You are you and they are they.

And that is the worst part of the job that you are doing, that you must be like somebody who is already successful. If you are like them, by virtue of that, you will be successful in the future. This is the dumbest logic that I have ever heard in my life."

He added that one must be true to oneself as being someone else, that person's job. "It's like somebody who makes ice-creams. If they give somebody vanilla ice cream since they like vanilla, they only keep giving them vanilla ice

cream. No. You have to be another flavour of ice cream. You have to make people like you, despite the fact that they like something else.

And one day, you should be so good that people forget everything else and just want to consume only you.

Why do you want somebody's light?

Every individual can be their own sun."

He also said that he has been trying his best to be himself for the past few years. The actor said that one feels pressured to live up to the comparison as a kid. He elaborated that one starts shaping and moulding oneself based on that comparison instead of finding the original and different things within oneself.

On the work front, Shahid was most recently seen in Ali Abbas Zafar's 'Bloody Daddy' which landed online earlier this year. He will reportedly start working on films produced by Vashu Bhagnani and Siddharth Roy Kapur.

Imran Khan admits to taking steroids to bulk up I

n his latest post on Instagram, actor Imran Khan talked about how he was obsessed with bulked-up male actors' bodies and was often criticised for his skinny body. ctor Vijay Varma said he had been handling the "pap situation" pretty well He wrote that he had always been skinny, until he started seeing Tamannaah Bhatia. Speaking at the India Today but that wasn't good enough to be a Conclave, he said the paparazzi "lost their minds" after his relationship with her was Bollywood hero. "I'm one of those hyperknown, and they even showed up at his doors. metabolic people, my body just burns "I was doing fairly good on my own. The pap situation escalated a bit as soon as through whatever I consume. Oh no, I started seeing Tamannaah Bhatia. That's where the paps lost their minds. I couldn't what a terrible affliction! In my late control it! And there were times they came right at my doorstep. Until now, nobody teens, guys around me started joining came to my gyms and working out. They started building. I stepped to expand, their biceps stretching the out of my building sleeves of their t-shirts. I wore a size and said 'no one will S, and my sleeves were still loose," step in my space. Do not he said about his body type. step over this line. No He added, "I didn't need to be one should know where I live in Andheri. I live in muscular to play Jai Singh this isolated part of Rathore (his character in 'Jaane Andheri. Don't go tell your Tu Ya Jaane Naa')... but I was friends where I stay and I convinced that I was too skinny, don't want you all outside which is why Jai mostly wears my house'. I mean I like two layers of clothing talking to them, but they throughout Jaane Tu. For my are not my friends." next film, 'Kidnap', I hit the gym He added, "They in earnest, and began my cannot ask me personal journey with body building." questions. They are not Imran also revealed the mean journalists, in fact no one comments he faced from can ask me personal filmmakers for his physique. questions without my "Over the next few years, the consent." Tamannaah sculpting and maintenance of my finally confirmed their body became part of my lifestyle. I relationship in June this worked out regularly, but still I year after months of would hear "So... you'll bulk up a bit speculations. before we start shooting, right?"; The two were "You're looking weak", "You look like seen together a little boy, not a man", and "The onscreen for the heroine looks bigger than you (ouch first time in the Netflix original anthology' Lust Stories 2.' Vijay was recently seen as a for both of us)," he wrote. cop in Sujoy Ghosh's Netflix original 'Jaane Jaan,' alongside Kareena Kapoor Khan The actor then detailed everything he and Jaideep Ahlawat. On the other hand, Tamannaah was seen in Disney+ Hotstar's ate and used to build up his body, 'Aakhri Sach' where she played the lead investigator. She was also seen in a special including steroids. "In hindsight, I think I appearance in Rajinikanth's blockbuster 'Jailer' earlier this year. looked fine... but at the time, I felt insecure. I wanted a powerful, heroic physique. So I tried

harder. Exercise means nothing without nutrition; 6 meals a day, totalling 4000 calories. Chicken breast, egg whites, sweet potato, oats, flax seeds... all good stuff, but still not enough to make my biceps look like the heroes I saw onscreen. No, for that I needed to supplement with whey protein, creatine, leucine, glutamine, L-carnitine... and ultimately, even anabolic steroids," he wrote.

"In recent years, as I battled depression and stopped working out, I became skinnier than I'd ever been. When I was photographed, it sparked a media discussion about my wellbeing, and speculations of drug abuse! I felt deeply ashamed, embarrassed to be seen by anyone in this state. So I retreated further," he said.

Giving an update on his life now, he said, "It's been an uphill journey, but these days I'm doing better than ever; I exercise with my old friend @tokastraining who puts my health first and only feeds me supplements like walnuts and turmeric... seriously.

And while I'm still a tad jealous of those dudes with superhero muscles... I don't feel bad about myself."

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Vignesh Shivan apologises to Vijay, Lokesh Kangaraj fans

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ilmmaker Vignesh Shivan has clarified his X account after fans noticed that the actor liked a post highlighting Vijay's tiff with director Lokesh Kanagaraj. He apologised and requested his fans to stop wasting their energy on a "silly mistake."

Taking to X, Vignesh wrote, "Dear Vijay sir fans , Loki fans … sorry for the confusion (folded hands emoticon) without even seeing the msg , the context or the content of the video or the tweet, by just seeing Loki's interview I liked the video ! cos am a big fan of his works and

Varun Tej and Lavanya Tripathi set to marry in Tuscany A

ctor Varun Tej and Lavanya Tripathi kicked off their wedding celebrations with a party in Hyderabad over the weekend. Actor Ram Charan's wife, Upasana Konidela, shared pictures from the event and revealed that the family was ready for the couple's wedding in Tuscany, Italy. The two will reportedly marry on November 1 and later host two wedding receptions in India.

Sharing a picture of the party decor, a group photo with Varun and Lavanya, and Chiranjeevi and Ram Charan, Upasana wrote on Instagram, "La familia (The family)...Tuscany here we come…@varunkonidela7 and @itsmelavanya (Wedding ring and infinity emojis). Thank you @decorbydinaz and @canvas.artcafe for the amazing ambiance and indulgent food."

Varun is the son of Telugu actor and producer Nagendra Babu. He is the nephew of veteran actors Chiranjeevi and Pawan Kalyan. Actors Ram Charan, Allu Arjun, Allu Sirish, Sai Tej and Panja Vaisshnav Tej are all his cousins. Earlier on Saturday, Chiranjeevi shared pictures from Varun and Lavanya's pre-wedding bash. The actors got engaged on June 9 in an intimate ceremony in Hyderabad.

Allu Arjun visits his wax statue at Madame Tussauds Dubai A

ctor Allu Arjun recently visited his wax statue at the Madame Tussauds Museum in Dubai. While it is scheduled to be unveiled later this year, the actor had an opportunity to see it before anyone else. A video shared by the museum's official page showed the first few glimpses of the wax figure.

Nobody tells men they are 40 or 50-year-old uncles: Priyamani his interviews and the way he speaks !"

He added that he is also anticipating the release of 'Leo,' he should have been careful to read the tweet first. His post read, "Am also eagerly awaiting for the grand release of Thalapathy vijay sir's Leo .. by impulse , I jus liked seeing Loki bro's image in the interview , like the same way I saw a shot of Nayan in a video clip where she had performed brilliantly and it was one of my fav shots so instantly liked that tweet also …. My bad ! I didn't even see the video inside or read the tweet involved in both the cases ! Should have been careful ! Sorry."

Concluding the post, he said, "So it's a silly mistake from my side ! And I express my apologies to all the good Thalapathy fans across the globe (red heart emoticon) waiting to see the blockbuster movie on 19th October with the same excitement as ya'll! So please stop wasting ur time in commenting more about this silly mistake and start celebrating LEO and all the good work that's been put into it ! Godbless (folded hands emoticons) JaiHindh."

It so happened that Vignesh had liked a now-deleted tweet about Vijay and Lokesh's rumoured fallout. It read, "@Dir Lokesh sir, We all know what happened between you and @actorvijay after #NaaReady song release and we clearly know why would you have to remove #Leo hashtag and to not to use # Vijay's name in any of your promotions after that…"

Thalapathy Vijay's much-awaited trailer of 'Leo,' directed by Lokesh Kangaraj, dropped a few days ago and took the internet by storm. It will be released in theatres on October 19.

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The clip starts with Allu in an all-black look, arriving at the museum. It also showed the first glimpses of the wax statue, which donned a red jacket, reminding of the actor's look from 'Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo.'

As Allu reached for the measurements, he got chatty about his first impression. He said, "In a way, this is a very surreal experience for me because, as a kid when I went to Madame Tussauds, I would never imagine that I would see myself as a wax figure at Madame Tussauds."

The official post read, "National Award winner; the first Telugu Actor in 69 years to win this award and icon of dance moves, the one and only Allu Arjun is all set to come face to face with his wax twin at Madame Tussauds Dubai later this year. Stay tuned for an event like never before."

On the work front, Allu is busy with the upcoming 'Pushpa: The Rule.' The sequel will follow a face-off between his character and Fahadh Faasil, who was introduced as the prime antagonist towards the end of the first part. In the film, Rashmika Mandanna will be reprising her role as Srivalli. Shot in Telugu originally, the film was dubbed and released in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada in 2021.

Allu Arjun's role as Pushpa even fetched him the National Award for Best Actor.

Mythri Moviemakers, the production house backing the film, made the announcement earlier on X and said, "Remember this date.

Pushpa 2: The Rule will have a grand worldwide release on 15th August 2024. Pushpa Raj is back to rule the box office."

ctress Priyamani recently opened up about facing negative comments about her age and appearance. She said that the age-shaming comments are only pointed toward women, as no one calls 40 or 50-year-old men as uncles.

She said, "When men get older, nobody tells them that they are 50 or 40-year-old uncles. When women hit 30 or 35, they start calling us aunties.

But that's okay because they are not realising, that tomorrow they will also cross this age. For me, its just... don't give them importance."

The actor further added how she tackles these comments and focuses on her own work instead. "I proudly say that I am a 39-year-old very good-looking girl who is very comfortable in her shoes and very comfortable in her body. I find myself hot. If others do or not, that's absolutely fine.

No issues, I am not going to sit you down and call me hot. You don't like me, absolutely fine. But there are other people who do like me." she said.

In the same interview, she added that earlier, she was bothered by these comments, but with time, has realized that whatever she does, there will be some comments. So, there is no need to give importance and that one minute of fame to that person.

She also spoke about working with Shah Rukh Khan in the recent hit 'Jawan,' mentioning how he treated everyone equally on the film sets. She said the actor made every colleague comfortable and answered many questions about work and life.

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Ranveer's controversial nude photoshoot resurfaces on Sufjan Stevens' new album

Not thinking about working in Bollywood at the moment: Michele Morrone I

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merican singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens' new album 'Javelin' has made the headlines for its themes of heartbreak and suffering.

However, it caught the attention of Indian fans for different reasons. The album's cover on YouTube features a picture of Bollywood star Ranveer Singh's nude photoshoot for Paper magazine from last year.

talian actor Michele Morrone gained global fame after his role in the erotic thriller ‘365 Days.' He later took the musical route to make his Indian debut alongside Bollywood star Jacqueline Fernandez with the music video 'Mud Mud Ke.' It led to speculations around his debut in Bollywood, which he has refuted.

He revealed that he has slowed down his acting career to focus on creating new music. Morrone, who has released his second album, 'Double,' said, "At the moment, I am focusing a lot on music, and it will continue to be the case for a certain period.

After that, I will start shooting for my acting projects. Until then, my focus is on focusing on a lot of music and working in the studio."

The 33-year-old adds, "In fact, I have got so many other projects at the moment, so I'm not really thinking about working in Bollywood because I'm very busy." Talking about his debut video, he shares, "I hope people in India liked the video. However, I didn't do a full-fledged song in India, just a video clip."

Confessing he has always admired India for its diversity, Morrone said he really wants to explore the country to experience it. "It has always been a dream to come to India because it's such a big and huge country. I have always been fascinated by the colours of India, and by the culture of India. I am aware of the love that I get from the Indian fans, who are very emotional and passionate about my work. I feel blessed about it, and can't wait to come to India and experience it," he said.

Aishwarya, Kendall Jenner pose for a stunning selfie at Paris Fashion Week B

ollywood actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan turned heads as she walked the ramp of L'Oreal's 'Walk Your Worth' show at Paris Fashion Week. Several videos have been doing the rounds on the internet, giving a glimpse into the world of glamour.

One of the latest viral photos from the event featured Aishwarya, American supermodel and entrepreneur Kendall Jenner in a selfie. They were joined by the former's daughter Aaradhya.

For the ramp, Aishwarya wore a golden cape dress and walked down the ramp as she was met with thunderous applause. She was one of the showstoppers who strutted the runway in beauteous creations at the L'Oréal Paris fashion show by the Eiffel Tower. Pictures and videos of the actor made it to social media and delighted her followers. Fans complimented her by calling her the "golden girl" online. A fan wrote, "She's the Golden Girl! Bringing all that fire and glam to the Eiffel Tower." Another wrote, "Forever fav golden queen."

Aishwarya's niece, Navya Naveli Nanda, made her debut in fashion as she walked the ramp. Her mother, Shweta Bachchan, shared photos and videos from the event, flaunting Navya's appearance on the runway in a mini red dress.

Shweta and her mother, actor Jaya Bachchan, sat in the front row to support Navya and cheered for her as she walked the ramp.

Priyanka reportedly caught in the middle of Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner divorce mess J

oe Jonas and Sophie Turner's divorce appears to be anything but amicable, and from what is reported, their famous friends and relatives are being forced to choose sides. According to a media report, Priyanka, married to Joe's brother Nick, adores the former couple and their daughters Willa and Delphine and wants them in her life.

The report quoted a source saying, "Sophie and Joe kept a lot of their friends separate, but a few are caught in the middle of this mess." They added that Priyanka, in particular, is struggling to navigate the breakup and custody battle. "She and Sophie were very close. There was once a time when Sophie thought she and Joe would move to London and so would Nick and Priyanka.

Priyanka loves Sophie and her nieces and doesn't want to do anything to jeopardise them being in her life," the source said.

After nearly three years of dating, Joe and Sophie tied the knot in 2019. Last month, when they split, each posted a joint statement to their social media accounts regarding the end of their four-year marriage. "Statement from the two of us: After four wonderful years of marriage, we have mutually decided to amicably end our marriage," they both shared on Instagram.

"There are many speculative narratives as to why, but truly this is a united decision and we sincerely hope that everyone can respect our wishes for privacy for us and our children," the statement concluded.

They've turned to mediation to work through the custody

battle for their two children. In another report by People, in a hearing last week, Sophie and Joe's lawyers revealed that they would start a four-day mediation to resolve issues in their divorce, including establishing custody and a parenting plan for their two daughters. It comes after Sophie sued her estranged husband for wrongful retention of their kids, alleging that he was withholding their children's passports and not allowing them to return to her native England.

The actor made pop culture history with his nude photoshoot for the international magazine, followed by the filing of multiple complaints against him for hurting religious sentiments. However, when his photoshoot resurfaced again with Stevens' new album, reactions flooded in positively swiftly.

Sharing a screenshot of the album cover, a Reddit user posted, "Sufjan is one of my favourite singers ever, his whole discography is just perfect. I was shocked while searching for his new album to come across Ranveer's photoshoot. I love this intersection of my two personalities, it's so funny because it was so unexpected?"

Reacting to the Reddit post, someone wrote, "Nothing could've prepared me for this..." A second commented, "Ooh that's big for Indie fans..." One person also wrote, "Damn that is huge. Good for Ranveer."

Another said, "If you actually think about it, Ranveer would have been the perfect brown Hollywood darling. He has the talent, would blitz up red carpets and actually have other people as competition in the area of flamboyance. They wouldn't be making fun of his sartorial choices and would actually encourage him to experiment more. And they would DEFINITELY love his nude photoshoots.

Quick, Ranveer, get an agent. Hollywood still doesn't have their token brown darling. They try with Dev Patel but there's a gap somewhere and Avan Jogia can't fix it."

Last year, Singh's viral photo series sent the internet into a frenzy. The actor's photoshoot for the magazine was a tribute to '70s pop icon Burt Reynold, who went nude for a shoot for Cosmopolitan magazine in 1972.

Later, Ranveer was called for questioning by the Mumbai Police in a case registered against him for posting nude photographs of himself on social media. In his statement to the Mumbai Police during his questioning in the case in August 2022, Ranveer had said that one of his photos from the magazine spread was tampered with and morphed.

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India finish Asian Games with record 107 medals England thrash Bangladesh India reached a century of medals, speed skating 3000m relay which was anyway a certainty, early team bronze, squash mixed on Saturday but the big deal came doubles gold (Deepika when the men’s badminton team of Pallikal and Harinder Pal Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Sandhu) and men’s doubles Rankireddy took gold out of the badminton gold (Chirag lion’s den, China in the Asian Games.

Shetty and Satwiksairaj They did it with the full support of Rankireddy). local fans, because they were playing India also secured a South Korean pair which had medals in some disciplines defeated China’s world No 2 duo of after waiting for ages – seven gold in this edition alone as Liang Weikeng and Wang Cheng in equestrian (dressage team bronze) compared to nine gold won across all the Round of 16. after a gap of 41 years; women’s shot editions till 2018; highest-ever put, Kiran Baliyan (bronze) after 72 India won six gold medals on medals in archery (9); highest-ever years; men’s-only decathlon, Tejaswin Friday – besides the badminton gold, medals in squash (5); highest-ever Shankar (silver) after 49 years; men’s one each came in men’s and women’s medals in rowing (5) and highest-ever 4x400m relay (gold) after 61 years; kabaddi, a historic first in men’s medals for Indian female boxers (4). men’s singles badminton, HS Prannoy cricket and two in archery’s Then there were first-ever medals (bronze) after 41 years and first ever compound competitions.

The in men’s and women’s cricket (both gold in women’s javelin throw, Annu women’s kabaddi gold will taste the gold), women’s skeet team silver, Rani. sweetest as it took India’s tally to 100. women’s 50m rifle 3 positions team In Hangzhou, a total of 23 national India’s record-breaking campaign silver, women’s 50m rifle 3 position records were created by Indian in Hangzhou, China, finished with a individual gold (Sift Kaur Samra); athletes, including 11 in shooting, four historic 107 medals – 28 gold, 38 men’s skeet team bronze, badminton each in archery and athletics, three in silver and 41 bronze, surpassing their men’s team silver, women’s swimming and one in cycling; 11 Asiad previous best set at 2018 in Jakarta, by individual golf silver (Aditi Ashok), records were broken in archery (4), a massive 37 medals. This is an dressage individual bronze (Anush athletics (1) and shooting (6) while increase of 52.8 per cent over 70 Agarwalla), women’s table tennis three world records were achieved in medals won in Jakarta and 75 per cent doubles bronze (Ayhika and Sutirtha shooting. increase over 16 gold secured in the Mukherjee), 25m rapid fire pistol It’s notable that currently there previous edition. men team bronze, sailing bronze in are 285 TOPS (Target Olympic Out of 107, female athletes ILCA 7 (Vishnu Saravanan), sailing Podium Scheme) athletes supported contributed 54 medals, i.e., 50.40 per bronze in RS X (Eabad Ali), men’s by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) cent, as India sent its largest-ever contingent with 651 athletes (329 ZĂŶŬ ŽƵŶƚƌLJ 'ŽůĚ ^ŝůǀĞƌ ƌŽŶnjĞ dŽƚĂů as against 75 in 2014. It is also notable that the men and 322 women). Indian athletes ϭ ŚŝŶĂ ϮϬϭ ϭϭϭ ϳϭ ϯϴϯ government hired 49 participated in 36 sports events and Ϯ :ĂƉĂŶ ϱϮ ϲϳ ϲϵ ϭϴϴ foreign experts for the won medals in 22 disciplines. ϯ ZĞƉƵďůŝĐ ŽĨ ϰϮ ϱϵ ϴϵ ϭϵϬ Asiad cycle post Tokyo Hangzhou brought several highs for <ŽƌĞĂ Olympics. This surely gave India – highest-ever medals in athletics (29) on foreign soil; highestϰ /ŶĚŝĂ Ϯϴ ϯϴ ϰϭ ϭϬϳ a huge boost to Indian athletes’ performance. ever medals in shooting (22) with ϱ hnjďĞŬŝƐƚĂŶ ϮϮ ϭϴ ϯϭ ϳϭ

PM Modi hails performance of Indian athletes at Asiad

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the first-ever feat of India’s athletes of winning more than 100 medals at the Asian Games and invited the participants to his residence on their return to India.

“A momentous achievement for India at the Asian Games! The people of India are thrilled that we have reached a remarkable milestone of 107 medals,” the PM wrote on X and shared a collage of the medal winning athletes with pugilists and hockey players among others being seen. India trounced Japan 5-1 to win the men’s

hockey gold and also qualified for the Paris Olympics.

“Every awe-inspiring performance has made history and filled our hearts with pride. I look forward to hosting our Asian Games contingent and interacting with our athletes,” he posted on X. “Congratulations to Ojas Praveen Deotale for striking gold in the compound archery men’s individual event. His precision, determination and unwavering focus have done it again and made our nation proud,” he said. He congratulated wrestler

Deepak Punia on winning a silver medal and women’s hockey team for winning bronze. “Congratulations to our women’s hockey team on their remarkable achievement of winning the bronze medal at the Asian Games!

Their resilience, teamwork and passion have brought glory to the nation,” he said.

Lauding the men’s cricket team on striking gold in their debut appearance at the Asian Games, Prime Minister Modi said their passion and teamwork have once again made the nation proud.

We’re now a javelin powerhouse: Neeraj Chopra Among his several qualities, Neeraj Chopra’s self-restraint is one worth admiring the most. This virtue serves him well when the media bombards him with all kinds of queries including the ever-persistent one: “When will you cross the 90m mark?” Neeraj always fields the questions with remarkable calm. After he returned to India last week from Hangzhou, having defended his Asiad javelin title, Neeraj answered the said question yet again: “I had said earlier in the season that I want to finish off the 90m question. So sorry I couldn’t do it.

Now, I guess I have given you the chance to ask me again about it in the next year.”

“Since 2018, it was a possibility to cross 90m. At the Asian Games (in 2018), I threw 88.06m, then I had an injury in 2019, then Covid happened but I managed to qualify for the Olympics. In 2021 also, I had good preparation. In 2022 and 2023 also I threw close with 88s and 89s. So I don’t know, I am also waiting for that.

The 90m is not impossible because if I

Neeraj Chopra

am getting close, I can go beyond 90m, may be 92m or 93m. Now I am consistent at one score, so my main focus will be to first cross the 90-mark and then stay consistent in that score,” he added.

Neeraj may have won all the titles that the sport has to offer at a relatively young age of 25, but feels there is more to him. “I am happy that I pushed myself (at the Asian Games) and ended with a season-best effort.

But it also made me wonder if I were fit and 100 per cent in my technique then how far could I have thrown. So I have to find how I can achieve my full

potential, because I feel I am still a lot away from that,” he said.

The Asian Games javelin final also saw another Indian sharing the spotlight with Neeraj. Kishore Jena broke his personal best twice to finish second. Jena’s performance was another proof of India’s growing stature in javelin. A month back, Neeraj, Jena and DP Manu had finished in the top 6 in the World Athletics in Budapest.

“I always dreamt that like how the Germans, Czech or Finnish javelin throwers have dominated the sport, we (Indians) should also have threefour world class throwers who can win medals for the country at any big competition. It feels good that we are now dominating the sport,” Neeraj said.

“I am usually the only Indian on the podium and it was so good to have Kishore alongside at the Asian Games.

Hopefully, one day we will have three Indians on the podium. Uska alag hi maza hoga.”

England revived their 50-overs World Cup title defence as Dawid Malan smashed a career-best 140 and Reece Topley wreaked havoc with the ball in a 137-run hammering of Bangladesh on Tuesday at Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh.

Smarting from their nine-wicket thrashing by New Zealand in the tournament opener, England amassed 364-9 after their top order fired with Malan forging century-plus partnerships with Jonny Bairstow (52) and Joe Root (82).

Playing his first match of the tournament, left-arm quick Topley (4-43) wrecked Bangladesh’s top order in the first six overs to set England up for an easy victory. Bangladesh were all out for 227 in 48.2 overs.

New Zealand crush Netherlands Mitchell Santner played a blistering innings and then took five wickets to guide New Zealand to a convincing 99-run win over the Netherlands in a World Cup match in Hyderabad on Monday.

The 31-year-old left-hander clubbed a 17-ball 36 not out in New Zealand´s imposing total of 322-7 before achieving figures of 5-59. Santner, the first New Zealand spinner to take five wickets in a World Cup match, dominated the Dutch who were bowled out for 223 in 46.3 overs. The victory gave New Zealand two wins in as many games after crushing titleholders England by nine wickets in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

India start with winning note India won its opening encounter of this world cup against Australia at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Oct 8.

The victory came in the 42nd over, as it chased down a total of 200 runs with six wickets in hands. KL Rahul, unbeaten at 97, and Virat Kohli who scored 85, were the architects of the runchase. They stitched a partnership of 165 runs. The team had begun the run chase on a shaky ground, with Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer getting out at zero. Despite losing the toss, India bowlers didn't disappoint and gave a very tough time to the Australian batters, who could be seen struggling from the very beginning.

South Africa defeat Lanka South Africa rode on centuries from Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram to thrash Sri Lanka by 102 runs in a World Cup match in New Delhi on Oct 7. Put into bat, the Proteas batters toyed with the Sri Lankan bowlers with Van der Dussen (108), Markram (106) and De Kock (100) smashing quick-fire centuries to lift the side to a commanding total, which was also the highest by a team in the World Cup. Dilshan Madushanka (2/86) picked up two wickets for Sri Lanka. Chasing, Charith Asalanka (79), Kusal Mendis (76) and skipper Dasun Shanaka (68) played good knocks but it was not enough.

Bangladesh score over Afghanistan Bangladesh bowled out Afghanistan for 156 in their ICC World Cup opener on Saturday. Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan won the toss and opted to field first and the decision was vindicated by his bowlers’ impressive performance at the picturesque venue in Dharamshala on Oct 7. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz top-scored for Afghanistan with a 62ball 47 in an otherwise ordinary outing with the bat. Shakib and Mehidy Hasan Miraz were the most successful bowlers for Bangladesh, picking up three wickets each as the Afghan innings folded in 37.2 overs.

Pakistan win by 81 runs Pakistan kicked-off the ODI campaign with an 81 run victory over Netherlands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Friday. Batting first Pakistan managed to pile 286/10 in 49 overs despite a top-order collapse. Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan led the rescue act for Pakistan as both the batters chipped in with 68 runs each. Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan also made some healthy contributions towards the end with 30-plus scores. In response Netherlands got off to a decent start with opener Vikramjit Singh and Bas de Leede leading the charge for the Dutch. Netherlands were eventually bundled out for 205 in 41 overs.

New Zealand beat England Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway looked like two giants playing with a football on a cricket field. They did not give even a single chance to the English bowlers, smashing their way to individual hundreds and a memorable ninewicket win for New Zealand in the first match of the ICC ODI World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on 5 October 2023. After winning the toss, Kiwi skipper Tom Latham decided to field first. Initially, commentators called it a great toss to lose for Buttler, only to realise that it was not a blessing in disguise as the wicket became tough to play in the first innings as soon as spinners started to operate. In the second innings, the dew made it hard for the spinners to grip, and New Zealand marched on to a win.