SIKH HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATIONS AT QUEENS PARK EID
RECEPTION AT QUEENS PARK
Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Canada hosted Eid Reception at Queens Park, Ontario Legislative Assembly on 25th April 2023. It was attended by Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, large number of Ministers, MPPs, dignitaries and Jam’mat members. Respected Lal Khan Malik National President of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at was also in attendance. Honourable Stephen Lecce , Minister of Education of Ontario and Honourable Kaleed Rasheed, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery of Ontario acted as hosts for the reception.
The Premier and Ministers thanked the Jama’at for their positive role and contribution in Canada and around the world. They especially thanked Humanity First for the support in disaster relief operations.
4 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023
HONORABLE GURBAX SINGH MALHI AWARDED KEY TO THE CITY OF BRAMPTON
VOLKSWAGEN’S NEW ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERY PLANT WILL CREATE THOUSANDS OF NEW JOBS
ST. THOMAS — From mining critical minerals to building batteries and cars, Ontario and Canada continue to attract historic, transformational investments across the electric vehicle supply chain to secure more good-paying jobs for workers today and for decades to come.
Last month, Ontario and Canada secured a historic investment from Volkswagen, Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen is investing $7 billion to establish its first overseas electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant in St. Thomas, Ontario. This is the largest electric vehicle-related investment in Canadian history, signaling a strong vote of confidence in Ontario and Canada’s highly-skilled workers, strong economies, and competitive business environments.
Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau were joined today by Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, and the federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, to highlight this generational deal for St. Thomas, Ontario, and Canada’s entire electric vehicle supply chain.
The plant, Volkswagen’s largest to date, will create up to 3,000 direct jobs and up to 30,000 indirect jobs. Once complete in 2027, the plant will produce batteries for up to one million electric vehicles per year, bolstering Canada’s domestic battery manufacturing capacity to meet the demand for electric vehicles now and into the future. The plant, which will generate about $200 billion in value, will be the largest manufacturing plant in Canada. Construction is expected to begin next year.
To strengthen and grow St. Thomas and the surrounding communities, Ontario will invest in other important infrastructure projects across the region, including improvements to roads, highways, utility services, and police and fire services. Since 2020, historic new investments have been made in Ontario by global automakers and electric vehicle batteries and battery materials suppliers. From mining critical minerals to building batteries and electric vehicles, Ontario and Canada have the resources and skilled workers to continue leading the world. This means a strong economy, good-paying jobs, and clean air now and into the future.
'NAME-CALLING': BIG RELIEF FOR RAHUL GANDHI AS PATNA HC STAYS TRIAL PROCEEDINGS IN SUSHIL MODI DEFAMATION SUIT
After the setback in the form of a dismissal of his plea for a stay on his conviction by a Gujarat court, there appears to be a big relief for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the ‘Modi’ surname defamation case as the Patna High Court on Monday stayed the proceedings in the subordinate courts till the next hearing, listed for May 16.
Patna’s Special Judicial Magistrate Aadi Dev had set the date for the next hearing on April 25 after Rahul failed to obey the summons on the 12th. Dev had asked the Congress leader’s counsel to ensure his physical appearance before the court. But on April 22, Rahul Gandhi approached the Patna HC, seeking the quashing of the summons issued by the lower court in the defamation case filed against him by BJP’s Rajya Sabha member and former Bihar deputy CM Sushil Kumar Modi. Now that there is a stay on any proceedings in the lower courts, speculation over Rahul Gandhi coming to Bihar has ended.
Speaking exclusively to CNN-News18, Rahul Gandhi’s advocate Ansul confirmed that the next date of hearing is May 16. “An application was filed in 2019 for quashing the order taking cognisance. But after the conviction of Shri Rahul Gandhi in Surat, we added a ground to that by saying that since he was convicted over there, he cannot be convicted for
the same offence again, that is the principle of double jeopardy which is there in Article 20(2) of the Constitution and section 300 of CrPC. Based on that and honourable Supreme Court’s judgement, the prosecution was not maintainable in view of the changed situation.”
‘MANN’ KI BAAT TOUCHES PEOPLE’S HEARTS: MODI’S LEADERSHIP, EMOTIONAL CONNECT WORK; 73% SAY 'INDIA ON RIGHT PATH'
Apowerful and decisive leadership that speaks to establish an emotional connect with the audience is one of the reasons for the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, which will reach 100 episodes on Sunday, according to a survey by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM)-Rohtak released on Monday.
The Prime Minister has been credited by the population of the country as knowledgeable and having “sympathetic and empathetic" approach. Direct engagement with the citizens and guidance is also cited as a reason for the trust the programme has established, according to the survey. The programme has reached 100 crore people who are aware and have listened to it at least once.
The findings of the study, commissioned by Prasar Bharati, were brought out in a press conference by Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO, Prasar Bharati and Dheeraj P Sharma, Director, IIM Rohtak.
Sharma, speaking about the findings, further said that 23 crore people tune in to the programme regularly, while another 41 crore constitute an occasional audience that has the scope of being converted into a regular audience.
The study has tried to gauge the impact Mann Ki Baat has had on the population
over the 99 editions so far. It states that a majority of listeners have become aware of the government’s working and 73% are optimistic and feel the country is going to progress. A total of 58% of listeners have responded saying their living conditions have improved, while a similar number (59%) have reported increased trust in the government.
INDIA SEES CHINA AS THEIR GREATEST MILITARY THREAT, NOT PAKISTAN...WE NEED TO DEEPEN TIES WITH NEW DELHI: US
Amid the evolving situation, influential Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna has said that Indians now see China as their greatest military threat and not Pakistan, and emphasised the need for having constructive re-balancing with Beijing. Relations between China and India have virtually frozen ever since the eastern Ladakh military standoff between the two countries in May 2020. The two countries have held 17 rounds of high-level military commanders' talks to resolve the standoff. India has been maintaining that its ties with China cannot be normal unless there is peace in the border areas.
“Today, we need a constructive re-balancing with China. This requires us to be clear-eyed about the threats we and our allies in Asia face, but are hopeful that our diplomacy and statesmanship can make the 21st century less bloody than the 20th century,” Khanna said in a foreign policy speech at the prestigious Stanford’s Hoover Institution on Monday.
“There are four guiding principles for a constructive re-balancing with China: First, an economic reset to reduce trade deficits and tensions; second, open lines of communication; third, effective military deterrence; and fourth, respect for our Asian partners and robust economic engagement with the world,” he said. “China creeps towards hegemony in Asia, threatens India’s borders, and treats other countries as junior partners. The people of India now see China as their greatest military threat, not Pakistan,” he said.
Khanna, 46, represents Silicon Valley in the US House of Representatives. “We have the technology to bring about an American production renaissance as Andy Grove, the famous Intel CEO, called for back in 2010. We have an Asian American diaspora that understands the need for open lines of communication and exchanges with Asia,” he said. The Valley is pioneering the leading technology in AI, cyber, space, long-range missiles, and unmanned vehicles that will be essential for effective deterrence in the Taiwan Strait, he said. It has a business community that understands that engagement — not isolation — is how they make friends around the world, especially in the Global South, and stand up for American values, he said. US need to build its alliances with India.
CONTD. FROM PAGE 1
City of Brampton, Gurpartap Singh Toor, Regional Councillor, Wards 9 and 10, City of Brampton, Harjinder Niijar, Deputy Mayor, City of Stratford, Raj Sandhu, Deputy Mayor, Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury and Nrinder Nann, City Councillor, City of Hamilton. The Key to the City is a symbolic honour that the City of Brampton bestows upon a highly valued member of the community, or a celebrated or dignified guest of the City who has made an impact on the lives of people living in Brampton. As the first turban-wearing Sikh elected to the House of Commons, Malhi paved the way for the representation of turban-wearing individuals and minorities in Parliament and was a fierce advocate for diversity and inclusion. Serving for 18 consecutive years as the Member of Parliament for Bramalea-Gore-Malton, Malhi helped open the doors for minorities, bringing a positive awareness to minorities of all ethnic backgrounds during a time when there was a lack of representation at the national level. He was born in a small village in Punjab, India, in 1949. During the 1960s, while still in India, Malhi started actively participating in politics. In 1975, he and his family arrived in Canada where he quickly gained a reputation as someone who would offer a helping hand. In 1993, he was elected to represent the Liberal Party in the Bramalea-Gore-Malton. Malhi’s objective as a politician was to fight for inclusion of all people that call Canada home, and to be reflective of the diverse ethnic backgrounds that co-exist in Canada. As such, Mayor Patrick Brown is honouring him by awarding the Key to the City during Sikh Heritage Month.
Quotes
“We are grateful for the outstanding contributions of the Honourable Gurbax Singh Malhi, and his unwavering commitment to inclusive policy making and community building. We are so very lucky to have this advocate in our city and we must celebrate those, like Malhi, who go above and beyond to create supportive, vibrant communities where all can be their best. An immeasurable thank you to my friend and mentor, the Honourable Gurbax Singh Malhi for his years of service.”
Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton
“Mr. Malhi is a trailblazer, friend and mentor. It is an honour to award him the Key to the City to celebrate his dedication to moving the needle forward for the multicultural community here in Brampton and beyond. We are forever grateful for his advocacy and dedication to creating strong, connected communities.”
Harkirat Singh, Regional Councillor, Wards 9 and 10; Deputy Mayor, City of Brampton
“I am deeply honoured to accept the key to the city, where I have lived and served for over 30 years. Service and the betterment of our community have been the cornerstone of everything that I do, it has been a privilege to give back to a city, a province and a country that have given me and my family so much opportunity to reach heights that I never imagined possible. I am grateful to Mayor Patrick Brown, Deputy Mayor Harkirat Singh and Brampton City Council for recognizing my work in the community”.
The Honourable Gurbax Singh Malhi
PAKISTANI-CANADIAN JOURNALIST TAREK FATAH PASSES AWAY AT 73 AFTER PROLONGED ILLNESS
Pakistan-born Canadian columnist and famous television personality Tarek Fatah died on Monday, April 24 at the age of 73. The author, based in Canada, died after a long-drawn battle with cancer. His daughter Natasha Fatah confirmed the news of his death in a Twitter post. She wrote, ''Lion of Punjab.Son of Hindustan.Lover of Canada.Speaker of truth.Fighter for justice.Voice of the downtrodden, underdogs, and the oppressed. @TarekFatah has passed the baton on… his revolution will continue with all who knew and loved him. Will you join us?'' Tarek Fatah was born on November 20, 1949, in Karachi, Pakistan. He migrated to Canada in 1987 and worked as a political activist, journalist, and television host. He also authored several books including, 'Chasing a Mirage: The Tragic Illusion of an Islamic State' and 'The Jew is Not My Enemy: Unveiling the Myths that Fuel Muslim Anti-Smitism.'
CHINA TAKES U-TURN AMID MASSIVE EU UPROAR OVER UKRAINE COMMENT, SAYS 'RESPECT SOVEREIGNTY OF EX-SOVIET STATES'
BEIJING: Amid massive uproar, the Chinese government, on Monday, took a U-turn and said it respects the sovereignty of former Soviet Union republics. The statement came after Beijing's ambassador to France caused a stir in Europe by saying they weren't sovereign nations. Ambassador Lu Shaye was being called on the carpet by the governments of former Soviet republics, and French President Emmanuel Macron, since Lu's comment to a French broadcaster. While answering a question about the status of Crimea, which Russia seized from Ukraine in 2014, Lu said that there was no agreement to “solidify their status as a sovereign country.” The governments of former Soviet republics Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania were among those who rejected Ambassador Lu Shaye's comment. Macron, at a summit in Ostend, Belgium, said in an interview with TFI Info, “I don't think it's the place of a diplomat to use such language.” He offered “full solidarity to countries which were attacked in the reading of their histories and their borders.” A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said earlier that “China respects the sovereign status of the former Soviet countries after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.” Mao Ning said Beijing's position is “consistent and clear” but gave no indication whether Lu's comment was considered incorrect.
Mid Week 5 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 SPECIAL REPORT
PIZZA NOVA KICKS OFF 60TH ANNIVERSARY AT NEW SUPPORT OFFICE IN SCARBOROUGH, FOUR KILOMETRES FROM THE FIRST PIZZA NOVA LOCATION, OPENED MAY 12, 1963
STAFF, PARTNERS, AND FRANCHISEES JOIN THE PRIMUCCI FAMILY AS THEY MARK THE SPECIAL MILESTONE WITH $1 MILLION DONATION TO SCARBOROUGH HEALTH NETWORK FOUNDATION
TORONTO- Pizza Nova, Ontario's family owned and operated premium pizza brand, celebrated today its 60th anniversary with close to five hundred friends, family, franchisees and partners. Held outdoors at the new support office at 1260 Lawrence Ave East, in Scarborough, just four kilometres away from the chain's first location, the event included bocce ball, photo booths, speeches and a live performance from Alfie Zappacosta singing the iconic 439 jingle originally recorded in 1987 by the Juno Award-winning singer and songwriter. "It's a proud and emotional day for me to be able to celebrate this incredible milestone with so many members of our extended Pizza Nova family," said Sam Primucci, who co-founded Pizza Nova in 1963 with his brothers. "We could not have enjoyed such success and longevity without the support of employees, franchisees, partners, and members of our communities, who have believed in our mission of sharing our beloved recipes and traditions and giving back to the communities in which we work, live and thrive. Grazie a tutti."
To commemorate the occasion, and honour the Scarborough community, the company surprised guests with the announcement of a $1 million dollar donation to Scarborough Health Network (SHN) Foundation. The funding will help create Toronto's most innovative diagnostic imaging department at its General Hospital.
"We are tremendously grateful to Pizza Nova and the Primucci family for their support. As a Scarborough-born business, it is inspiring to welcome a $1 million donation from Pizza Nova that will improve diagnostic imaging at our General Hospital and support the Scarborough community," says Alicia Vandermeer, president, and CEO of SHN Foundation. "We are honoured that Pizza Nova has chosen to celebrate its 60th anniversary in such a thoughtful and meaningful way."
Domenic Primucci, who grew up in Scarborough, is an active volunteer and long-time supporter of the Love Scarborough Campaign, whose mission is to close the healthcare funding gap and provide Scarborough residents with equal access to optimal healthcare. With only 1 percent of hospital donations reaching the
About Pizza Nova
Founded in 1963, Pizza Nova is a family-operated business that is committed to sharing the rich taste of Italy with Canadians. Pizza Nova has more than 150 stores and concession locations in Southern Ontario and inspired by family values such as trust, integrity, and authenticity. They are known for fresh toppings, highquality ingredients and a wide range of authentic Italian menu items including lasagna, panzerotti, Italian sandwiches, chicken wings, arancini and FOCACCIA BARESE™. They also have a line of Primucci branded products featuring Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Homestyle Tomato Sauce, Italian Hot Peppers, Spicy Green Olives, and Sundried Black Olives. Taste the Difference or Learn more at pizzanova.com.
About Scarborough Health Network Foundation
Situated in one of Canada's most diverse communities, Scarborough Health Network (SHN) Foundation inspires the support necessary to improve patients' lives through exceptional care at Scarborough Health Network across three hospitals and eight satellite sites. Since its inception, the Foundation has worked with generous donors, volunteers and community members to raise funds needed to build state-of-the-art infrastructure and purchase the latest medical technology, supporting the SHN's vision to be Canada's leading community teaching health network. Learn more at shnfoundation.ca
About the Love, Scarborough Campaign
Launched on January 10, 2022, the Love Scarborough campaign is an awareness campaign shedding light on the healthcare inequities Scarborough faces. It is an open letter to the rest of Toronto, asking them why our most diverse area is also our most ignored and encouraging them to "back us up." The campaign has seen incredible traction, and thanks to generous donors has raised its first $100 million. But we're just getting started. Because after decades of being left behind, there is still a lot more catching up to do. Funds raised will support urgent priorities and build up Scarborough's hospitals to a level equal to the incredible people who live and work there. Learn more at lovescarborough.ca.
Scarborough network of hospitals, the support from the Primucci family will go a long way, giving the diverse Scarborough community the medical facilities its residents deserve.
"This has been the journey of a lifetime," said Domenic Primucci, president of Pizza Nova. "When we opened our first location at 2272 Lawrence Avenue East in Scarborough, we could never have imagined the journey would take us this far. Today, not only do we stand by our promise of providing traditional, quality food, we are privileged to be in the position to give back to the special community we have called home for over 60 years.
I am so proud."
First opened for business May 12, 1963, Pizza Nova has delighted customers with its promise of pure, fresh, and high-quality ingredients in everything it serves. Over the last 60 years, the company has expanded to more than 150 locations and a network of staff that exceeds 2,000 people across Southern and Southwestern Ontario and has donated approximately 3.5 million dollars to various communities and long-standing charitable partners such as Variety, The Children's Charity of Ontario a longstanding partner of Pizza Nova. The annual That's Amore Pizza for Kids Dip'n Give campaign returns this May where 50 cents from every dip sold is donated to help the kids at Variety, Ontario.
Pizza Nova has numerous exciting campaigns scheduled to run throughout the year. Customers, partners, and employees can enjoy limited edition pizza boxes, a jingle remake contest, an exclusive line of 60th anniversary merchandise and more.
As Pizza Nova embarks on its next chapter, the company will continue to focus on it's Puro Promise and supporting communities, an important part of the company's future.
6 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 SPECIAL REPORT
AUSTRALIA'S MEGA RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT TEMPORARILY HALTED AFTER FATAL CRASH
WANTED SUSPECT ARRESTED IN BRITISH COLUMBIA ON A CANADA-WIDE WARRANT IN CONNECTION WITH 2021 ATTACK OF ELNAZ HAJTAMIRI
Investigators with the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have arrested one suspect in Surrey, British Columbia on a Canada-wide warrant and continue to seek another suspect in connection with the attack on Elnaz HAJTAMIRI that occurred in December 2021 in the City of Richmond Hill.
On December 20, 2021, officers responded to an address on King William Crescent, which is in the area of Yonge Street and Bantry Avenue, for a call that a female victim was attacked and struck with a frying pan in an underground parking garage. The victim, Elnaz HAJTAMIRI, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and the suspects fled the scene in a vehicle. In 2022, three suspects were identified and charged in the violent attack. In February 2023, a fourth suspect was arrested and March 1, 2023, a fifth suspect was charged.
Through the ongoing investigation and thanks to the support from the media and the public, police identified two additional suspects and Canada-wide arrest warrants were issued for Jaspreet SINGH, 24, of Delta, British Columbia and Sukhpreet SINGH, 23, of Mississauga.
On Friday, April 15, 2023, investigators arrested and charged Jaspreet SINGH with Aggravated Assault and Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence. He was transported back to York Region where he remains in
custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 19,2023.
A Canada-wide warrant remains in affect for Sukhpreet SINGH. He is encouraged to seek legal counsel and turn himself in. Investigators are reminding the public that anyone who is, or has, assisted the suspect may be subject to criminal charges.
A $100,000 reward exists for information on the abduction of Elnaz HAJTAMIRI. On January 12, 2022, HAJTAMIRI, 37, was abducted at approximately 8:30 p.m. from a Wasaga Beach residence by three suspects dressed in fake police gear. They fled in a white Lexus RX SUV. York Regional Police continues to work with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in this investigation.
WANTED:
Sukhpreet SINGH, 23, of Mississauga
CHARGES:
Aggravated Assault Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence
Anyone with information is asked to contact the #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7241, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
POLICE MAINTAINS RESTRAINT IN ARREST OF KHALISTANI SEPARATIST AMRITPAL: PUNJAB CM
Saying that the state will take action against "those who try to disrupt the country's peace and law", Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday said the government did not indulge in vendetta politics and maintained restraint in the arrest of Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh. Hours after the arrest of the Waris Punjab De chief after over one month of chase by the police, Mann said those who break the law will be brought to justice and vowed strict action against Amritpal Singh. "I gave instructions to Punjab Police that the sanctity of Guru Granth Sahib should not be compromised. Amritpal Singh was arrested after 35 days. If people disturb peace, then action will be taken. We don't indulge in vendetta politics. We didn't want any violence for the arrest. I thank 3.5 crore Punjabis for maintaining peace." The Chief Minister lauded the action of Punjab Police for cracking down on Amritpal Singh. He said he monitored the operation throughout the night.
Amritpal Singh was arrested by the police from the Moga district Sunday morning. He was shifted to Assam's Dibrugarh jail, where nine of his aides are currently lodged.
Responding to arrest of his son, mother Balwinder Kaur said they came to know that he has surrendered.
"I felt proud that he surrendered like a warrior... We will fight a legal battle and we will also go and meet him at the earliest," she told the media. She said her son was doing a good job weaning people away from drugs, but instead of catching those who were spreading this disease of drugs in Punjab, the police caught him.
Tarsem Singh, father of Amritpal Singh, said through television they came to know that he surrendered before the police. "We too wanted the same because people were being harassed due to
him... We will fight the case."
Amritpal Singh was arrested from the native village of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who was killed in the Indian Army's Operation Blue Star in 1984. As per police, he was shifted to Dibrugarh jail as the National Security Act (NSA) has been invoked against him.
Law enforcement agencies can keep him in detention for over 12 months.
The 30-year-old Waris Punjab De chief had been on the run after evading arrest on March 18.
He shot to prominence in February after an armed mob led by him clashed with police and laid siege to a police station near Amritsar, demanding the release of one of their colleagues who had been taken into custody in an alleged kidnapping case. Six policemen were injured in the bloody clash.
DEEP SIDHU'S FAMILY DIFFERS FROM AMRITPAL'S SEPARATIST AGENDA, OPPOSED HIS HIJACKING 'WARIS PUNJAB DE'
Self-styled Khalistani preacher Amritpal Singh, finally arrested on Sunday from the village of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in Punjab, after 36 days of cat-and-mouse chase across several states, was largely unknown till last September when he returned to India from Dubai where he was running his family's transport business.
After taking charge of 'Waris Punjab De' or "the heirs of Punjab"floated by lawyer-actor-turned-activist Deep Sidhu in 2021, he was trying to position himself as a new fulcrum for the Panthic cause by calling on the youth to "fight for the freedom" of the Panth. Sidhu, one of the accused in the January 26, 2021 Red Fort violence, had died in a road accident near Haryana's Sonepat in February 2022. In September that year, Amritpal Singh's 'dastar bandi' (turban tying) ceremony was held at Rode village, marking his official installation as the head of 'Waris Punjab De'. However, unlike Bhindranwale, he didn't have any formal religious schooling. A dropout from apolytechnic, he had cut his hair and shaved off his beard while in Dubai. However, Deep Sidhu's family, which came in the media glare after the police declared Amritpal Singh fugitive, sought an investigation into the antecedents of someone "who was not liked by Sidhu". Even investigation by the police had revealed that the late actor blocked his mobile number. Mandeep Sidhu, the Ludhiana-based advocate brother of Deep Sidhu, said Amritpal Singh's appointment as head of 'Waris Punjab De', which was founded by his brother, was illegal. "An impression is being given that our family is a party to the decision to appoint Amritpal Singh as the head. This is not true. In fact, Deep never talked about Amritpal and seemed to dislike him. He had blocked Amritpal's phone for 15 days in January and February," he had told the media. He had said screenshots of the blocked number have been shared on social media. "My brother's phone is with me. I have the evidence," he had said. "Deep had founded Waris Punjab De after much research. It has been hijacked. We need an inquiry into the
issue." Even Reena Rai, a US-based actress, who was the fiancee of the late Deep Sidhu, had condemned the actions of Amritpal Singh. She said Deep Sidhu was neither a separatist nor a believer in violence. But Amritpal Singh had clandestinely hijacked the party to meet his Khalistani ambitions.
She even alleged that everything was being done by Amritpal Singh to collect large amounts of donations from abroad.
Amritpal Singh, against whom the National Security Act (NSA) was invoked and a non-bailable warrant issued, had been on the run despite the massive manhunt launched to nab him since March 18.
The self-styled preacher, who returned from Dubai last year, tied the knot with Kirandeep Kaur in a simple ceremony in February. A police team, comprising women officers, questioned her in her husband's native place for nearly an hour in connection with alleged foreign funding for the activities of Amritpal Singh.
Official sources told IANS that the police had also scanned bank accounts of Amritpal Singh, his wife, and parents to trace sources of funds. Confirming the arrest of Amritpal Singh, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the Aam Aadmi government is duty-bound to preserve the hard-earned peace and communal harmony in the state. "Law is taking its own course in the case of Amritpal Singh, who was a stooge in hands of the forces inimical to the state and country, and no action is being taken against the innocents," he said in a statement.
Mann said the state could have arrested Amritpal Singh only on March 18 but they never wanted any bloodshed and today the separatist leader has been arrested without firing a single bullet. He said this was a deep rooted conspiracy to disturb the peace, amity and brotherhood in the state but the government has foiled it by arresting all the key players. Mann said the self-proclaimed religious leader Amritpal Singh ran an organisation which provoked youth to take arms and indulge in illegal activities against the country.
CANBERRA, (IANS) Australia's government-owned energy company Snowy Hydro has temporarily halted the work of its mega renewable energy project after a truck driver died in a single-vehicle crash. "Snowy Hydro Limited (SHL) notified the government of the incident this afternoon, and has advised that the site has been shut down for the night and tomorrow (Tuesday)," Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen and Minister for the Public Service Katy Gallagher said in a joint statement.
"The government expects the highest standards of safety at Snowy 2.0 and all worksites, and will engage closely with SHL and unions in the aftermath of this tragic incident," they added.
According to police in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW), just after 1.10 p.m. on Monday, emergency services were called to the Snowy Mountains Highway in Snowy Monaro Region, following reports of a crash, reports Xinhua news agency.
A truck had crashed and rolled, trapping the driver who later died at the scene. Extending condolences to the bereaved family, friends and workmates of the victim, Snowy Hydro confirmed that the vehicle involved is a Snowy 2.0 project truck.
"This is a tragic event and we are supporting our Snowy 2.0 Principal Contractor, Future Generation Joint Venture (FGJV), our teams and all those impacted in the community at this very sad and difficult time," said Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes.
BIDEN'S APPOINTMENT OF NEW LABOUR SECY HANGS IN THE BALANCE
WASHINGTON, (IANS) US
President Joe Biden faces a trial of strength in Congress over his appointment of Julie Su as the new Labour Secretary as the House resumes its sessions this week.
The most important factor to flag for Wednesday is: The Senate Health, Education, Labour and Pensions Committee will vote on Biden's nomination of Su. The Senate confirmed Su as deputy secretary for the agency in 2021.
Su faced a backlash from Republicans in a HELP Committee hearing where her detractors felt that her California labour policy was too radical in wrongfully allocating $30 billion of taxpayers money to tackle unemployment during the pandemic.
Five other important issues are on the table of the house speaker Kevin McCarthy including his own compromise $1.5 trillion debt ceiling limit while holding payments out of the treasury until March 2024, media reports said of the oncoming stormy session ahead.
Congress has a tough busy schedule this week which includes resolving the GOPs long standing demand and its own path ahead to raise the debt limit and confirming President Biden's new labour secretary nominee, resulting in a bipartisan debate.
What's ahead of the Congress to resolve this week? The House of Representatives meeting amid the backdrop of the White House insisting it is not open to debt ceiling negotiation with what it called "Cruel Republicans". Speaker McCarthy says he is hopeful the house will pass his modified $1.5 trillion debt ceiling increase plan this week -this will hold off US Payment until March 31, 2024, seeks to slash $4.5 trillion in spending over the course of a decade and cut funding by more than $130 billion from the current levels of expenditure.
JAPAN EVACUATES ALL NATIONALS WISHING TO LEAVE SUDAN
TOKYO, (IANS) The Japanese government said on Tuesday that all of its nationals who wished to leave violence-hit Sudan have been evacuated.
According to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, along with Japanese nationals who departed on a Self-Defense Forces (SDF) plane, eight Japanese nationals and their families also left Sudan. Efforts had been underway to evacuate around 60 Japanese nationals from Sudan.
Sudan has descended into a bloody battle zone following the eruption of violence between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on April 15.
The two sides have agreed to a three-day ceasefire which started on Monday midnight.
The brutal fighting has killed at least 427 people and injured more than 3,700, according to UN agencies.
Mid Week 7 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023
SPECIAL REPORT
AYEAROFCRUCIALIMPORTANCE
India presently is in the midst of efforts by the Narendra Modi government to reach a new high in building international relations, maintain domestic peace in the face of a planned attempt of hostile forces within and abroad to push the country towards a serious communal divide and establish once again - in the run-up to the next General Election - the image and strength of India as the world's largest democracy.
India's Presidency of G20, the challenge posed by the rise of minority politics at home and the concerted campaign of opposition parties including the regional entities against the ruling dispensation, all cumulatively add to the need for effective and firm governance in the country in the pre-election year.
Prime Minister Modi's foreign policy initiatives have enhanced India's image abroad and have also delivered on trade and economic relations, but the regime seems to be facing an increasing challenge in the area of internal security and stability because of divisive and disruptive politics at home and the organised attempts of anti-India forces within and outside of the c ountry to build a narrative that India was moving towards an authoritarian, majoritarian and non-secular rule.
Since the Modi government's development agenda is in full swing and its schemes for the less privileged have also made an impact, the opposition was taking to finding fault with the democratic content of the present dispensation at the Centre and alleging misuse of coercive instruments of the state by the regime to selectively run down the leaders of other parties.
India however, is used to the 'wisdom of the crowd' asserting itself in all critical situations and there is little doubt that in a national poll, people would make a sound judgement on the integrity of the Modi government, its political will in safeguarding national security and the sincerity of its efforts to develop the country economically.
India has made its G20 Presidency an event with a difference- its motto 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' or 'World is one family' setting the note for a global mission that India wished to pursue on this forum.
On the initiative of Prime Minister Modi various international conferences in the run-up to the G20 Summit in September are being held at different locations across India to give the visitors a feel of the vastness, cultural richness and development, of this country and to spread the awareness among the people here, of the big strides India was taking to make its presence felt international.
Three distinct features of G20 attract attention - the rise of India as a major power in the world with considerable influence on issues of global peace and development, the continuity of the policy of bilateral relations extended to a multilateral format that guaranteed mutually beneficial outcomes for both security and economic advancement and the designing of G20 events in a manner that would promote domestic
growth. India is already the leading power in South Asia and the G20 Presidency has provided it with an opportunity of gaining the leadership of the South by propounding the cause of the less developed countries across the entire range of issues from economic support to an equal say in environment protection.
Nine of the twenty G20 members and as many as seven of the nine invitees represent the South and India has done well to have deliberations on the specific matters of concern affecting them.
G20 meetings being held in Arunachal Pradesh and Kashmir convey among other things, India's assertive answer to China and Pakistan who had been raising a dispute about these territories.
The domestic scene in India has for some time been subjected to communal divide, regional centrifugalism and politics of allegations about the style of functioning of the Modi government.
The phenomenon of the Hindu-Muslim divide creating communal violence in India was the inevitable legacy of Partition but the severity of riots did taper down with time. However, the schism between the two communities has been perpetuated because of the 'Minority politics' that the Ulema and the elite guiding the Muslims as also many of the political parties, indulged in for their vested interestsconsidering that as a useful aid in elections.
During the Modi regime forces in the opposition have constantly accused the former of promoting 'majoritarianism' for pushing the country towards Hindu rule and tried to build a narrative- in many cases in conjunction with anti-India lobbies abroad - that the minorities were feeling 'unprotected' under the present government.
The failure of an individual state government on the law and order front in any case of targeted public violence against individuals was unfairly blamed totally on the Centre - in disregard of the fact that the state was autonomous in handling crime and order in the Constitutional scheme of things.
The threat to the internal security and stability of India is aggravated by the propaganda offensive of Pakistan alleging that the Muslim minority here was unsafe under the Modi rule and the attempt of that country to raise this question at the Organisation of Islamic Conference(OIC) on the plea that Muslims of India were part of 'Ummah' to which the e ntire Muslim world particularly Pakistan stood committed. Pakistan, supported by China, has voiced its opposition to the abrogation of Art 370 by the Indian Parliament, at the United Nations and implicitly projected Kashmir as a 'Muslim issue'. India has taken appropriate measures on diplomatic, political and domestic fronts to counter the narrative floated by the adversaries.
In recent years, the communal divide has been exploited by anti-India forces within and outside of the country to foster faith-based militancy to foment terrorism in India and enlarge the ambit of cross-border terrorism in Kashmir as well by injecting a religion-linked motivation.
The trend that began with the formation of Indian Mujahideen (IM) as an offspring of the Students Islamic Movement of India(SIMI) - which had been established earlier by the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind at Aligarh in 1978- culminated in the early Nineties into the call for Jehad in Kashmir replacing the earlier slogans of Plebiscite and Azaadi as Pak ISI planned to replicate the success of Afghan Jehad in the valley. The pro-Pak lobbies in India and abroad have continued to abstain from naming Pakistan for cross-border terrorism in Kashmir and have in fact joined hands in fomenting Muslim separatism by alleging that the Modi government was deviating from the democratic path, by voicing opposition to the current policy of 'no talks with Pakistan' and by even deprecating the advocacy of nationalism by the present regime.
Ever since the Sino-Pak axis has become aggressive against India, external threats to India's internal security had multiplied- the two hostile neighbours were using their potential to fish in the troubled waters of India.
In the run-up to the General Election next year the country is exposed to an ever-increasing Hindu-Muslim divide primarily because of the politically-motivated campaign of the anti-BJP forces to the effect that the Modi government was pursuing the RSS agenda of establishing Hindu Rashtra in India and working against the Muslim minority. The opposition parties evidently believed that against a highly divided Hindu community, consolidation of Muslim votes behind them would
greatly improve their electoral prospects.
The Muslim minority is largely guided in politics by its leaders but the community is not a monolith in terms of its political stand. It is good to reach out to various segments and sects to gain their trust- this is precisely what the ruling dispensation is attempting to do. The anti-BJP parties often in collaboration with civil society groups opposed to the Modi government are projecting the present regime as illiberal- given to nepotism and violation of Constitutional norms. Indian electorate however is a shrewd judge of whether or not Prime Minister Modi was taking the country on the path of economic development, unfailing national security and special attention to the poor and the underprivileged. It can set its sights above the political tussles that were going on between the ruling party and its detractors. The pre-election year is crucial both for testing the rise of India as a global power and evaluating the Modi government's success in governance at home.
The presidency of G20 and the dynamic framework in which its international conferences had been planned would certainly equip India with unprecedented potential as a world power, make it the fastest growing economy, a tourist destination of repute and an attractive market for investment and would also reaffirm its democratic foundations.
Pakistan and China, the two hostile neighbours, would engage in putting down India's image as a self-supportive, secular and peaceloving democracy. However, the reform-oriented, growth driven and welfare-minded rule of Prime Minister Modi is moving ahead along a nationalist path, undeterred by the distracting narratives built by antiIndia forces within the country and outside.
The rise of the BJP government at the Centre has prompted some Tamil parties to revive their anti-North and anti-Hindi rhetoric for political reasons even though they knew that their state was completely integrated with the Central administrative mainstream.
Modi government needs to critically examine the quality of law and order management offered by the states, work for effective oversight on the IAS and IPS as the civil services that provided a uniform, apolitical and people-oriented administration throughout the country and do all it takes to ensure that national security was kept above politics in this country. It should adopt bold measures to train, monitor and support the national civil services as India's prime instrument of governance and not hesitate to effectively intervene as per the mandate of the Constitution in the event of a state government failing to maintain administrative integrity in general and the law and order situation in particular.
The image of a country in the international community is determined significantly by the merit of the democratic governance of the nation and the political will of its leadership to respond to both security and economic challenges.
Disclaimer: The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. The opinions expressed within this article are the personal ideas of the author. The facts and conclusions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of Y Media and Midweek Newspaper, and Y Media does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
8 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 YUDHVIR JASWAL JASWAL CHIEF EDITOR & CEO yudhvir@southasiandaily.com 647-272-8182 647-272-8182 647-272-8182 647-272-8182 E-mail : For Advertising yudhvir@southasiandaily.com Newspaper MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY Published in English every Tuesday Radio SOUTHASIAN PULSE * Prime time Mon to Fri- 10:00 am to 12 noon on 770 AM * Super Prime Time Mon to Fri - 12:00 to 2:00 pm on 91.9 FM * Drive Time Mon to Fri- 2:00 to 6:00 pm on 91.9 FM * Evening Time Mon to Fri- 6:00-10:00 pm on 91.9 FM * Night time Mon to Fri- 10:00 pm to 12:00 am on 91.9 FM * Morning time Mon to Fri- 12:00 to 5:00 am on 91.9 FM LISTEN TO SOUTH ASIAN PULSE RADIO ON YOUR MOBILE GTA – (647) 910 5000, US - 518-801-1313 Television CHANNEL Y Rogers 857, Bell 828, Telus 2418, Ignite 707, Yupp TV Online WWW.SOUTHASIANDAILY.COM ONLY News Portal for Southasian-Canadians Cricket CANADIAN PROFESSIONAL CRICKET (CPC) 6th Annual CPC Inter-City Cricket Cup Starting June 2013 6 Months of Non-stop cricket action Events Annual Midweek Southasian Awards Mid Week SIA LAKHANP LAKHANPALAL ALAL AL REBECCA TANDON TANDON POOJA LUTHRA REPORTERS GURPREET SINGH LOONA GURPREET SINGH LOONA CONTENT EDITOR DR. PUSHPINDER BRAR DR. PUSHPINDER BRAR CONTRIBUTING WRITER BASHIR NASIR BASHIR NASIR BASHIR NASIR BASHIR NASIR PHOTOGRAPHERS IMRAN MAHMOUD MAHMOUD IMRAN MAHMOUD MAHMOUD PHOTOGRAPHERS FOR INQUIRIES, CALL : 416-475-5000 E-MAIL : FOR ADVERTISING 'YMEDIA@SOUTHASIANDAILY.COM' SUNIL VERMA SUNIL VERMA GRAPHICS DEPARTMENT OPINION
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ONTARIO GOVERNMENT INCREASING SUPPORT FOR HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION IN PEEL
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The additional funding will help those experiencing or at risk of homelessness and support community organizations delivering supportive housing. This includes a 38% increase to the Regional Municipality of Peel’s allocation from last year, bringing the total investment to $42,399,100.
“Supportive housing provides people in need with a roof over their heads. It also connects them with services that provide a hand up to improve their circumstances, including mental health support and job training,” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister for Housing. “Our government met with partners and stakeholders across the province this past fall – we heard their concerns and are addressing their valuable feedback to improve Ontario’s supportive housing system. This investment will make a real impact to support housing providers that help vulnerable Ontarians each and every day. I am thrilled that this investment will also help to deliver tangible results right here in Peel Region and in my own riding of Mississauga – Streetsville.”
Peel, like all major urban centres across Ontario, faces a significant and growing need for more affordable housing.
Demand for affordable housing in Peel exceeds availability by far and continues to grow at a rapid pace, along with the region’s growing and aging population. As well, buying or renting a home is unaffordable for 80% of Peel residents, and they face long waits to access affordable units. “Tackling homelessness and the affordable housing crisis are key priorities for Peel Region and this boost in funding for the Homelessness Prevention Program will allow us to help more people in need. Sadly, we are currently only meeting 30% of the need here in Peel, so this kind of support from our partners at the Government of Ontario is vital and comes at a time when it is needed more than ever,” said Regional Chair of Peel, Nando Iannicca. The additional funding, announced in the 2023 Budget, represents a 40 per cent increase in funding by the government to support the most vulnerable by providing supportive housing and homelessness prevention services. Under the $202 million, $190.5 million each year will be allocated
to the Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP), which gives Ontario’s 47 Service Managers greater flexibility to allocate funding and make better use of existing resources to focus on delivering supports. The remaining $11.5 million each year will be invested in the Indigenous Supportive Housing Program (ISHP), which provides Indigenous led, culturally appropriate longterm housing solutions and support services to Indigenous people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. “We know Ontario’s housing supply crisis impacts all Ontarians, no matter their background or budget,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “That’s why we’ve increased funding for our homelessness prevention programs by more than 40 per cent. These measures complement the bold and transformational change we are implementing to tackle the housing supply crisis and get more homes built faster across Ontario.” “During a time of economic challenges and change, our government is supporting those who have fallen on hard times and are experiencing, or are at risk of experiencing, homelessness,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance. “Ontario’s 2023 Budget: Building a Strong Ontario is the right plan to support those who need it the most today while laying a strong fiscal foundation for future generations.”
The increased funding is a result of a revised funding model that better reflects the current needs of individuals who are facing homelessness across Ontario. Funding dollars are being increased to address increased needs, particularly during a time of rising inflation, and to help ensure that no service manager receives a decrease in funding compared to 2022-23 as a result of the transition to the new model.
The changes also address the recommendation in the Auditor General’s 2021 value-for-money audit on homelessness, which called for a better funding model for homelessness programs that would target areas where funding is most needed. In addition to reducing costs in other sectors, supportive housing provides people in Ontario with an opportunity to live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. Ontario will continue to support the most vulnerable by providing supportive housing and homelessness prevention services to help those most in need.
MISSISSAUGA COUNCIL OPTS IN FOR RETAIL CANNABIS STORES
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“Mississauga has been cautious and examined the experience of other cities over the past five years before opting into retail cannabis stores,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “While we wish cities had more control in terms of locations and licensing, the experience of other cities that have opted in has generally been positive and without major issues. We welcome the opportunity for residents to be able to more easily and conveniently access legal cannabis at retailers and the businesses and jobs it will create in our city.”
The use of recreational cannabis has been legalized federally since October 17, 2018. At the time, Mississauga chose to opt out and not allow retail cannabis locations to operate within the city. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) manages the licensing, renewals and
GOLD, HIGH-VALUE GOODS STOLEN FROM TORONTO AIRPORT
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After being secured in the holding facility, the cargo was removed by "illegal means", police said, adding that it was too early to know if the theft was carried out professionally.
Police also said that they did not know where the gold is or if it was still in the country and that they believe this is an isolated incident. No arrests have been made and police did not release any information on the suspects. The Greater Toronto Airports Authority confirmed to CTV News that thieves accessed the public side of a warehouse that is leased to a third party outside of the airport's primary security line and that this did not involve access to the airport itself and did not pose a threat to passengers or staff.
IMPROVING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY IN ONTARIO SCHOOLS
The government is committed to delivering a world-class education system that helps prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.
The legislative changes proposed through The Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, together with future regulatory amendments, would if passed, lay the groundwork for a truly world-class education system unified with a singular focus: to improve student outcomes in important life-long skills like reading, writing and math.
Accountability and transparency
Ontario’s school boards are not consistently working toward the same priorities. School board performance varies across the province on indicators related to literacy, math, graduation and student attendance.
In addition, some parents can review and assess their school board’s performance, while other boards do not proactively share this information.
In response, Ontario is taking action through proposed legislation to set student achievement priorities and expectations for Ontario’s education sector. Proposed legislative and future regulatory changes, if passed, would:
Allow the Minister of Education to set provincial priorities to focus boards in important areas of student achievement, like reading, writing and math
Require school boards to report on progress toward these priorities and enable the Ministry of Education to support struggling boards sooner
Allow the minister to require school boards to make any report that the minister may require from the board available to the public
Require enhanced school board financial reporting on funding and spending, planned and actuals
Allow the minister to strengthen rules around financial accountability and transparency
Allow the minister to prescribe school board limitations in participating in business activities that could place school boards in financial risk
Allow the minister to enhance financial accountability of school boardcontrolled entities
Promote greater school board-municipality co-operation on delivering child care
Enable an accelerated apprenticeship pathway.
Governance and leadership
There are about 700 trustees that make critical decisions in Ontario’s school boards who bring valuable perspectives and local considerations into how school boards are governed.
Directors of Education also play a vital leadership role in school boards by managing the day-to-day operations of schools, student transportation, the building of schools and oversight of thousands of teachers, education workers and administrators.
enforcement of private cannabis retail stores under the Cannabis Licence Act, 2018. “Mississauga joins many cities in Ontario who have opted in for retail cannabis stores. We have learned from their experiences and consulted with several around issues they’ve faced,” said Shari Lichterman, Acting City Manager and Chief Administrative Officer. “With Council’s decision, the City will be looking into next steps and working with our provincial and regional partners to ensure community safety remains the top priority.”
The City Clerk will provide the Registrar of the AGCO with written notice of the resolution within three business days of passage of the resolution. The AGCO will determine next steps with respect to the opening of cannabis retail stores in the city of Mississauga. Any inquiries about next steps should be directed to the AGCO.
General Accounting & Bookkeeping
Mid Week 9 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 CANADA
10 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023
AMRITPAL QUIZZED BY IB OFFICERS IN ASSAM'S DIBRUGARH JAIL
TO SAVE THE PEASANTRY AND THE COUNTRY WAS PARKASH SINGH BADAL'S MOTTO
For Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Akali patriarch and five-time Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal (95) was India's Nelson Mandela.
The country's oldest politician -- next only to BJP veteran L.K. Advani -Badal passed away on Tuesday evening after a brief illness at a private hospital near here.
Throughout his political career, Badal, who had once compared Modi to former US President Abraham Lincoln, had always expressed "immense satisfaction and pride" over the strong and principled stand taken by his party, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), "to save the beleaguered peasantry and the country".
The Akali Dal was one of the oldest allies of the BJP. It was among the first to support the 13-day Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. And Akali patriarch Badal was a founder-member of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
The Akali Dal-BJP (earlier Jana Sangh) alliance has been described as the oldest and strongest in contemporary politics. No other coalition weathered so many political battles since March 27, 1970, when Badal became the country's youngest Chief Minister.
But the Akali Dal snapped its over two-decade long ties and pulled out of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in September 2020 after sharp differences emerged over the three controversial farm laws, now repealed.
In an interview with this IANS correspondent ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the elderly Badal had said the guilty of both the Gujarat riots in 2002 and the anti-Sikh riots of 1984 should be punished.
He had said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after touching his feet, had sought blessings not only from him, but from the Punjabis and Sikhs all over the world.
In a conversation, the senior Badal had said that it made him feel very humble when Modi touched his feet ahead of filing his nomination papers in Varanasi.
"Modi sahib took me by surprise. But as I see it, he sought blessings not from me personally, but from Punjabis and Sikhs all over the world." And did he give his blessings to Modi? He had replied: "Yes."
"He has my best wishes and the blessings of all Punjabis for what he did for opening the Kartarpur Sahib corridor, punishment to Sajjan Kumar and other guilty of the 1984 massacre, abolishing the blacklists of Sikhs abroad and release of liberal funds in hundreds of crores for Guru Sahib's 'shatabadi' (550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev."
Badal had also said that he wanted the guilty of both the Gujarat riots and the anti-Sikh riots to be punished.
"No one has ever justified the Gujarat riots. No one said after the Gujarat riots that it was like shaking of the earth after the fall of a big tree. But from Rajiv Gandhi to other Congress leaders, they have always justified the anti-Sikh riots," he had said.
When asked that in October 2015, Modi had called him India's Nelson Mandela and that now he has compared Modi to former US President Abraham Lincoln, he had said: "Lots of people have referred to me as Nelson Mandela even before, because of the years I spent in jail fighting for democracy, civil liberties and peace and reconciliation in Punjab."
"I don't believe I can be compared to a great man like Mandela. As for Modi sahib, I compared him to Abraham Lincoln and I spoke from the core of my heart. Nothing political about it."
Days after returning his Padma Vibhushan over the 'black farm laws', the elderly Badal had urged Modi to scrap the three farm laws, claiming that they have pushed the country into a deep turmoil.
In a four-page letter, Badal had called upon the Prime Minister to "show magnanimity" and withdraw these laws as a first step towards the resolution of the serious crisis confronting the country.
Akali Dal chief and his son Sukhbir Badal said in a statement that the elderly Badal is "not just a human being, not just an institution, not just an era but it's like history halts at a critical juncture and I can barely gather my thoughts or manage words to announce that Sardar Parkash Singh Badal left us at 8 pm to embark on his journey to eternal peace at Guru Sahiban's and Akal Purakh's feet".
The elderly Badal's mortal remains will be placed at SAD head office in Chandigarh from 10 am to 12 noon on Wednesday. Thereafter, the mortal remains will be taken to Badal village in Muktsar district where he will be cremated on Thursday.
In 2022, Badal, the eldest candidate at 94 in the fray for the 117-member Punjab Assembly, had lost to AAP's greenhorn Gurmeet Khuddian from Lambi by 11,357 votes, a seat he had won five times in a row since 1997. Despite the drubbing in the 2022 Assembly elections, the elderly Badal, who firmly believed that the farmers' issue relates to the overall national interest, had expressed "immense satisfaction and pride" over the strong and principled stand taken by his party "to save the beleaguered peasantry".
He was often quoted as saying, "Sometimes parties face ups and downs. It happens in politics. The Akalis have a long history of rejecting the lure of office and standing up for principles."
EXCISE POLICY CASE: CBI NAMES SISODIA IN CHARGESHEET, CALLS HIM 'MASTERMIND'
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in its first supplementary chargesheet filed in the Delhi excise policy case has alleged that former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, Manish Sisodia, was the mastermind of the whole scam.
Sisodia has been chargesheeted along with liquor businessman Amandeep Singh Dhall, Hyderabad-based CA Butchibabu Gorantla, and a person named Arjun Pandey.
Till now, the CBI has arrested five accused and chargesheeted 11 accused persons. Earlier, the CBI had filed a chargesheet against Sameer Mahendru, Vijay Nair, Abhishek Boinpelly, Gautam Mutha, Arun Pillai, and excise officials Kuldeep and Narendra Singh.
Sources said that the CBI has alleged in the chargesheet that liquor businessman Amandeep Dhall, the director of Brindco Sales Pvt Ltd, was in criminal conspiracy with the accused Vijay Nair and the South Group for generating cash towards payment of 6 percent commission out of the enhanced 12 percent profit margin.
"Investigation has revealed that the implementation of the excise policy was manipulated to facilitate the monopolization and cartelisation of wholesale and retail liquor trade in Delhi by the accused persons from South India (South Group). It was also learnt that 6 percent out of 12 percent windfall profit margin was provided to Vijay Nair. Thus around Rs 90-Rs 100 crores were paid to Nair," the source said quoting the chargesheet. Out of this Rs 30 crores was paid through the hawala channel using Dinesh Arora, the approver in the case.
In pursuance to this conspiracy, the accused persons from the South Group were given shares in the L-1 firm Indospirits and 65 percent profit amounting to Rs 29.29 crores was transferred to the accused persons of the South Group. The wholesale license was issued to Indospirits by the excise department despite the pendency of complaints of cartelisation and blacklisting against the partners of the firm.
Dhall was in close contact with Nair since March 2021. Dhall was arranging meetings between Nair and officials of the biggest manufacturers like Pernord Ricard India Pvt Ltd and DIAGEO (United Spirits Ltd). "Dhall also met Abhishek Boinpally, Butchibabu Gorantla and Arun R Pillai, all accused of South Group, at Gauri Apartment along with the accused Vijay Nair. Thus, aforesaid facts and circumstances, clearly revealed that the accused Dhall was in contact with South Group," the CBI has alleged in the chargesheet.
Dhall was the distributor of DIAGEO in Delhi even prior to the implementation of the excise policy of Delhi for the year 2021-22.
Dinesh Arora who has turned approver told the CBI that during his meeting with Boinpally and Nair at Hotel Kohinoor in Hyderabad on 19 and 20 June 2021, it was decided that Boinpally would send around Rs 30 crores to Nair through him. And this money would be recovered by extracting 6 percent commission out of the 12 percent profit margin of the wholesalers.
The CBI has alleged that Dhall gave additional Credit Notes worth Rs 4.97
crores through Brindco Sales Private Limited, on his own, to different retailers without receiving the same from DIAGEO, Out of the same, additional Credit Notes worth Rs 2.58 crores have been given by Dhall to four companies of South Group, MIs Organomix Ecosystems Pvt. Ltd, Sri Avantika Contractors (I) Ltd, Trident Chemphar Ltd and Magunta Agro Farms Private Limited.
Boinpally used to negotiate for the Credit Notes on behalf of three retailers, Organomix Ecosystems Pvt. Ltd, Avantika Contractors Ltd and Trident Chemphar Ltd, whereas Raghav Magunta Reddy was negotiating for the Credit Notes on behalf of Magunta Agro Farms Private Limited.
"Credit Notes worth Rs 34,55,912 have been given to ACE Finance Company, who was controlling 2 retail zones under New Excise Policy 2021-22. On the direction of Nair, these additional Credit Notes have been given by Dhall. Additionally Credit Notes worth Rs 4.97 crores were given to ACE Finance Company through Brindco Sales Private Limited against which equivalent cash amount was transferred from ACE Finance Company to Boinpally through Arora," the CBI has alleged.
These facts were also confirmed to the CBI by Arora and Virat Mann, who used to look after the matter of Credit Notes of ACE Finance Company.
The CBI had on 19 August 2022, conducted searches at the house of Dhall which led to the recovery of certain incriminating documents related to the excise policy, copy of the tender document (which he got in advance) and copy of confidential note of former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and another confidential note for the Council of Ministers.
Pro-Khalistani leader Amritpal Singh, who is lodged in Assam's Dibrugarh jail, was interrogated by Intelligence Bureau (IB) officers on Tuesday, police sources said here.
The Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief has been kept in a separate cell. As per jail sources, he was not allowed to meet other members of the outfit, including his close aide Papalpreet Singh.
Nine associates of Amritpal were lodged at Dibrugarh Central Jail before he was brought there on Sunday.
A source in Dibrugarh jail revealed that IB officers went inside the prison this morning and that the interrogation of Waris Punjab De chief is underway.
Assam police is tight-lipped on the development.
Prasant Kumar Bhuyan, the Inspector General (Law and Order) of the Assam Police, told IANS, "All central investigation agencies, including IB and RAW, have officers posted in the state. Hence, it is not necessary that somebody from the national capital has to come to interrogate an inmate."
He, however, refused to comment on Amritpal's questioning.
SCO DEFENCE MINISTERS MEETING:
RAJNATH LIKELY TO HOLD TALKS WITH CHINESE COUNTERPART
NEW DELHI, (IANS) India, as the Chair of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in 2023, will host the SCO Defence Ministers' Meeting here on April 28, the Defence Ministry said on Tuesday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to hold bilateral talks with his Chinese counterpart Gen Li Shangfu. Before the SCO meet, the 18th round of India-China Corps Commander level talks held on Sunday, but it failed to make headway on the contentious issue of the Depsang Plains and de-escalation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The repeated attempts by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) to violate the LAC, leading to tension in Ladakh, spurred the institution of the Corps Commander-level meetings. While the two sides agreed on mutual withdrawals from Pangong Tso, Gogra, and Hot Springs, the Depsang Plains and Demchok remain points of contention and tension. Now all eyes are now on the visit of the Chinese Defence Minister.
INDIA-US JOINT AIR EXERCISE COPE INDIA 2023 CONCLUDES
The sixth edition of the joint air exercise -- 'Cope India 2023' -between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF), which was conducted over the last two weeks at the Air Force Stations in Kalaikunda, Panagarh and Agra, concluded on Monday. According to an official statement, the exercise involved participation of frontline IAF aircraft, including Rafale, Tejas, Su30MKI, Jaguar, C-17 and C-130. The USAF in turn had fielded the F15 'Strike Eagle' fighter, C-130, MC-130J, C-17 and the B1B, a strategic bomber aircraft.
Japanese Air Self Defence Force aircrew also participated in the exercise as an observer.
This joint exercise provided an opportunity for the participants of all countries to exchange ideas and best practices through interactions, exchanges and combined missions. Cultural exchanges were also organised during the exercise to reinforce the bond of friendship and camaraderie.
The exercise reaffirmed the deep-rooted commitment to maintain and strengthen the relationship between the two Air Forces, boosting international cooperation between the two largest democracies.
DRONE SPOTTED OVER DELHI CM'S RESIDENCE
A drone was sighted hovering above the home of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday, a Delhi Police official said.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, North, Sagar Singh Kalsi said that at 4.46 p.m, information was received at a police control room vehicle placed outside the CM's Residence in Civil Lines that a drone was sighted above the residence by a staff while he was sitting in lawns.
Immediately, police, including senior officers, rushed to the spot.
"However, no drone was found visible at the time. A written submission has been received from CM's Camp Office and a legal process is underway," the DCP said.
Mid Week 11 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 INDIA
DIFFICULT TO ENGAGE WITH NEIGHBOUR WHICH PRACTICES CROSS-BORDER TERRORISM AGAINST US: JAISHANKAR
AFTER 36 DAYS OF CHASE IN SEVERAL STATES, PRO-KHALISTAN PROPAGATOR AMRITPAL ARRESTED
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Regarding his arrest, some media reports claimed that the fugitive reached the native village of Bhindranwale on Saturday night and surrendered before the police in the morning.
A video, viral on the social media, purportedly shown Amritpal Singh addressing from a Sikh shrine and saying last one month "exposed" the real face of the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government. "I may be an accused in the court but not an accused in the court of Almighty," he said. IANS doesn't however, authenticate the video's origin and timing.
Bhindranwale's nephew Jasvir Rode told the media Amritpal Singh had informed police last night itself that he will surrender Sunday morning after paying obeisance at the Gurdwara Janam Asthan Sant Khalsa. He surrendered around 7 a.m.
In September last year, Amritpal Singh's dastar bandi (turban tying) ceremony was held at Rode village, marking his official installation as the head of Waris Punjab De.
Before his arrest, his close aide Papalpreet Singh was arrested in Amritsar on April 10 under the NSA and that six other cases have also been registered against him.
Papalpreet Singh is a Khalistani activist who called himself a journalist before ending up as a media advisor to the radical preacher. A resident of Amritsar, he was earlier arrested for his alleged links to Pakistan's InterServices Intelligence in 2015.
Three days before his arrest, Amritpal Singh's Britain-origin wife Kirandeep
Kaur was stopped at the Amritsar airport and not allowed by immigration officials to board a flight to Birmingham.
After questioning, Kaur has been sent to her home in Jallupur Khera in Amritsar district and asked her not to leave the country without informing the police.
Who is Amritpal Singh?
He was not known till last September when he returned to India from Dubai where he was running his family's transport business.
After taking charge of Waris Punjab De, which means the heirs of Punjab, he is trying to position himself as a new fulcrum for the panthic cause by calling on the youth to "fight for the freedom" of the Panth. A resident of Jallupur Khera in Amritsar district, Amritpal Singh moved to Dubai in 2012.
Waris Punjab De is an organisation floated by lawyer-actor-turned-activist
Deep Sidhu in 2021. One of the accused in Red Fort violence, Sidhu died in a road accident near Haryana's Sonepat in February 2022. Unlike Bhindranwale, Amritpal Singh didn't have any formal religious schooling. A dropout from polytechnic, he cut his hair and shaved his beard while in Dubai.
Police records say Amritpal Singh has been involved in scores of disputes, kidnappings and issuing threats.
Facing criticism for using the Bir of the Guru Granth Sahib as a shield during the clash, Amritpal Singh in March met Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh in Amritsar.
After the closed-door meeting, Amritpal Singh said, "This meeting was about Panthic issues and Sikh youth. Such meetings on current affairs of Punjab should be held regularly.
PM MODI FLAGS OFF KERALA'S FIRST VANDE BHARAT TRAIN, LAYS FOUNDATION STONE OF DIGITAL SCIENCE PARK
NEW DELHI, (IANS) Without naming Pakistan, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said that it is difficult to engage with a neighbour which practices cross-border terrorism against India. At the same time though, Jaishankar, who is currently in Panama as part of his four-nation tour of North and South America, expressed hope that one day a stage will arrive when Pakistan will deliver on its commitment of not sponsoring cross-border terrorism.
During a joint press briefing with his counterpart from Panama, the Minister said: "It is for us very difficult to engage with a neighbour who practices cross-border terrorism against us. We've always said that they have to deliver on the commitment to not sponsor and carry out cross-border terrorism.
"We continue to hope that one day we would reach that stage."
As part of the visit, Jaishankar first visited Guyana, which was followed by Panama.
He is also scheduled to make stops in Colombia (April 25-27) and the Dominican Republic (April 27-29).
K'TAKA POLLS: HIGH VOLTAGE CAMPAIGNING BY PRIYANKA GANDHI, AMIT SHAH
BENGALURU, (IANS) As Karnataka is inching closer towards the May 10 Assembly polls, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Union Home Minister Amit Shah will campaign for their respective parties in the state on Tuesday.
While Priyanka Gandhi will focus on south Karnataka, Shah will campaign in the north Karnataka region.
The Congress General Secretary's visit comes a day after senior party leader Rahul Gandhi's trip to Hangal town in Haveri district, during which he appealed to the voters not to give more than 40 seats to the BJP in the much-anticipated elections.
The Congress, buoyed by internal surveys and rebellion in BJP, is hoping to return to power.
The party also wants to gather momentum for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections by achieving victory in Karnataka.
Priyanka Gandhi will campaign in Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts. The Varuna seat in Mysuru district is witnessing a high voltage contest between opposition leader Siddaramaiah and state Minister for Housing V. Somanna.
Somanna is contesting from Chamarajanagar as well.
Priyanaka Gandhi will take part in the public rally at Yalavarahundi in T. Narasipur and later, she will interact with women in Gaurishankar Hall in Hanur town, Chamarajanagar. In the evening, she will address a massive rally in K.R. Nagar constituency after which Priyanka will also take part in the procession.
Kerala: As a part of a two-day trip to Kerala, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kochi and received a rousing welcome here on Monday with thousands of people, including BJP workers and supporters, lining up on both sides of the nearly two-kilometre-long route of his road show from the INS Garuda naval air station to the venue of a youth programme. Modi landed at the naval air station after 5 PM and commenced his road show from there around 5.40 PM. Dressed in traditional Kerala attire, Modi intially began the road show on foot and waved to the people on both sides of the road along the route which was under a tight security net, with thousands
of police personnel being deployed to ensure the PM's safety. People of all age groups from various parts of the state were lined up on both sides of the road, hours in advance, to welcome Modi and showered him with flowers. PM Modi during the road show highlighted the steps taken by his government in view of benefit to the youths of Kerala. "Just a few days back, our Government took another major decision that will benefit the youth of Kerala. Central Govt has decided that exams for the Constable post in Central Armed Police Forces will be conducted in 13 Indian languages, besides Hindi and English. It means that the exam will be held in Malayalam too," PM Mosi said.
AMRITPAL'S BRITAIN-ORIGIN WIFE STOPPED AT AMRITSAR; NOT ALLOWED TO BOARD FLIGHT
CHANDIGARH, (IANS) Fugitive Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh's Britain-origin wife Kirandeep Kaur was stopped on Thursday at the Amritsar airport and not allowed by immigration officials to board a flight to Birmingham, officials said.
After questioning, Kaur has been sent to her home in Jallupur Khera in Amritsar district and asked her not to leave the country without informing the police. "We have prevented her from leaving the country. She was neither detained nor arrested. She was stopped because she is needed for questioning related to the case," said Senior Superintendent of Police (Amritsar Rural) Satinder Singh told the media.
Officials told IANS that Kaur has a visa for a limited period in India that is about to expire. She has been questioned several times earlier also by police for her role in supporting the organisation that was formed by the late actor-activist, Deep Sidhu. Amritpal Singh, against whom the National
Security Act (NSA) has been invoked and a non-bailable warrant issued, is on the run despite the massive manhunt launched to nab him since March 18. The self-styled preacher, who returned from Dubai last year, tied the knot in a simple ceremony in February. Since then, she has been staying in Punjab. Papalpreet Singh, the main associate of Amritpal Singh, was arrested in Amritsar on April 10 under the NSA and that six other cases have also been registered against him. Papalpreet Singh is a Khalistani activist who called himself a journalist before ending up as a media advisor to the radical preacher. A resident of Amritsar, he was earlier arrested for his alleged links to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence in 2015.
PAK FM BILAWAL BHUTTO RULES OUT INDO-PAK BILATERAL
CONTD. FROM PAGE 1
Bilawal also announced to consult with all the political parties for their inputs on his visit to India, Samaa TV reported.
He said all members of the regional body have realised the importance of SCO and it would yield positive results.
On India-Pakistan bilateral relations, the Foreign Minister said that SCO rules are clear that bilateral issues cannot be taken up at the summit, Samaa TV reported.
Sharing Pakistan's past experience at the SCO summit in Uzbekistan, Bilawal said the country has not held any bilateral talks in the past as well. Earlier on Thursday, the spokesperson of the Foreign Office, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, had formally announced that Bilawal will be travelling to Goa to participate in the SCO Foreign Ministers' meeting scheduled on May 4-5. The visit holds massive importance as Bilawal will be the first Pakistan Foreign Minister to visit India after a gap of nearly 12 years. The last Foreign Minister to visit India was Hina
TALKS
Rabbani Khar in July 2011.
DURING SCO MEET
In January, India had extended an invitation to the Pakistan Foreign Minister along with all other member states of the SCO to attend the meeting.
"Bilawal Bhutto's visit to India would be seen as an ice-breaking move. It will be symbolically significant. Though it may not bring any dramatic changes in bilateral relationships," said Kamran Yousaf, a senior political analyst in Pakistan.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic, international security and defence organisation.
It is the world's largest regional organisation in terms of geographic scope and population, covering approximately 60 per cent of the area of Eurasia, 40 per cent of the world population, and more than 30 per cent of global GDP, Samaa TV reported.
The SCO is the successor to the Shanghai Five, formed in 1996 between China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Tajikistan.
After holding a series of roadshows and public rallies in south Karnataka and Hubballi in north Karnataka, the Union Home Minister will continue his high-voltage campaigning in Vijayapura, Bagalkot and Yadgir districts on Tuesday.
Shah will take up campaigning in Rabkavi-Banhatti town of Teradal constituency in Bagalkot.
Later, he will address a public rally in the district.
TWO ARRESTED IN UP FOR GLORIFYING ATIQ AHMED ON SOCIAL MEDIA
BAREILLY (UP), (IANS) Two persons have been arrested and sent to jail for praising slain gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed on social media by calling him a "lion that was killed while being trapped in a cage...and those responsible would have to pay a price." The two have been booked under the IT Act and other sections of the IPC.
According to police, the first accused, a 35-year-old man from Bithri Chainpur in the district, had shared a "provocative post" on his twitter handle regarding the murders of Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf in Prayagraj recently.
Inspector (crime) Amresh Kumar said, "The alleged accused works at the reception desk of Rohilkhand Medical College. An FIR was registered against him following a complaint filed by me after he shared a provocative post, which was causing unrest in society and could spark riots. We have slapped section 167 (public servant framing an incorrect document with intent to cause injury) of IPC, along with the IT Act, on him. He was arrested and sent to jail on Monday." The other accused, a resident of Abdullahpur Mafi, had on April 17 posted a message also praising Atiq Ahmed on Facebook. He was booked under section 153A (promoting enmity between two groups on ground of religion, race etc) of IPC and section 66 of the IT Act. Police said the second accused had posted inflammatory posts on social media earlier as well.
12 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 INDIA
INDIA, CHINA AGREE TO WORK OUT MUTUALLY ACCEPTABLE RESOLUTION ALONG EASTERN LADAKH NEAR LAC
India and China after the 18th round of Corps Commander Level talks held at Chushul-Moldo border on the Chinese side, agreed to maintain security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector. The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue through military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest.
"The 18th round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Chinese side on April 23. The two sides had a frank and in-depth discussion on the resolution of the relevant issues along the LAC in the Western Sector so as to restore peace and tranquility in the border areas, which will enable progress in
bilateral relations," officials said. "In line with the guidance provided by the State Leaders and further to the meeting between the two Foreign Ministers in March 2023, they had an exchange of views in an open and candid manner. The two sides agreed to maintain security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector. The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue through military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest," they said. The government refers to eastern Ladakh as Western Sector. The talks took place days ahead of Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu's planned visit to India to attend a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
MEDIA SHOULD NOT MAKE PEOPLE FIGHT: RAJASTHAN CM GEHLOT AMID POWER TUSSLE WITH PILOT
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday said media should not make people fight. His comment comes amid a tussle over leadership with his former deputy Sachin Pilot in Rajasthan.
The Congress' election campaign in the state would focus on the schemes and programmes launched by his government, he added. The CM also exuded confidence that his party would return to power based on the work done in the last five years.
Gehlot's comments come in the backdrop of an ongoing tussle with Pilot.
The duo has been at loggerheads over the chief minister's post ever since the Congress formed the government in Rajasthan in December 2018. Recently, Pilot opened another front against Gehlot by holding a day-long fast while alleging that the state government did not take action against the alleged corruption during the tenure of the BJP regime led by Vasundhara Raje, as promised before the 2018 assembly polls.
Gehlot, however, has not offered any direct reaction to Pilot's attack. On Monday, he said the media should not make people fight.
"The media should stick to the truth and facts… The media should not make us fight with each other. They (media persons) should fulfil their duty and it is in the public interest...The media should support the government in reiterating the truth," he said.
"I do not say 'present false figures or praise us falsely' but I would like the media to run based on truth. The media is under the pressure of the central government but they should see the interest of the public," Gehlot told reporters here. About his government's schemes and the upcoming assembly elections, the Congress leader said the party's campaign would focus on the schemes of his dispensation.
"In the elections, Prime Minister (Narendra Modi), (Union Home Minister) Amit Shah will take part in big road shows, spend money and do everything to win the elections. But we have decided that we will move forward on the basis of the (state) government's works," he said. Assembly elections in Rajasthan are due later this year. The state government has taken many decisions, Gehlot said and lauded it for its excellent fiscal management and steps to not impose any tax.
"We will move forward with these things. Our campaign will revolve around this. BJP leaders who come will speak so many things but we will not pay attention to them. We will do our work," he said.
The government is fulfilling the pledge of serving the public and fulfilling promises, Gehlot said.
NIA ATTACHES PROPERTIES OF TERROR OUTFIT HIZBUL MUJAHIDEEN CHIEF SYED SALAHUDDIN'S SON IN SRINAGAR
Jammu and Kashmir: In another crackdown against terror outfits, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday attached properties of terror organisation Hizbul Mujahideen chief Mohammad Yusuf Shah aka Syed Salahuddin’s sons in Srinagar.
According to a notice issued by the NIA, Immoveable Property (1567 and 1568) located at Revenue Estate, Nursing Garh, Mohalla Ram Bagh, Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, under the ownership of Syed Ahmad Shakeel, the son of Syed Yousuf Shah alias Syed Salahuddin, a 'listed militant' under UAPA Act, 1967 stands attached under sub-section 33 (1) of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, 1967 by the Order of Special NIA Court. As per the notice issued by the NIA, Syed Ahmed Shakeel is an accused in an NIA case. Salahuddin’s sons lodged in Delhi's Tihar Jail
Both Shahid Yusuf and Syed Ahmed Shakeel are lodged in Delhi’s Tihar Jail since their arrest in October 2017 and August 2018. They were chargesheeted on 20th April 2018 and 20th November 2018, respectively. The duo had been receiving funds from abroad from the associates of their father and overground workers of HM.
Syed Salahudeen, who had fled to Pakistan in 1993, was designated as an individual terrorist by India in October 2020. He continues to operate from Pakistan, from where he is guiding and instructing HUM cadres as well as activists of UJC, also known as Muttahida Jihad Council (MJC) which is a conglomerate of around 13 Pakistan-based Kashmir-centric terror outfits.
Besides instigating and operationalising militant activities in India, primarily in Kashmir valley, Syed Salahudeen has been raising funds and routing finances to India through trade routes, Hawala channels, and international
SC ISSUES NOTICE TO DELHI POLICE ON PLAYERS' PLEA SEEKING FIR AGAINST WFI HEAD
The protesting wrestlers on Monday threatened to approach the top court of the country if an FIR is not lodged against WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh even as Sports Ministry stalled the Federation's election on May 7 and asked the IOA to form an ad-hoc committee to conduct polls. The ad-hoc panel, which will conduct elections within 45 days of its formation, will also manage day-to-day affairs of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) till the sports body gets a fresh Executive Committee. The top wrestlers said they have nothing to do with the WFI polls and would continue to press for a proper investigation into their allegations that Singh sexually harassed women athletes. The ministry's decision came after the country's top wrestlers, including Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia and World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat, resumed their sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar on Sunday and demanded the public disclosure of the findings of the oversight panel that investigated the allegations. The protest entered day 3 on Tuesday.
NO ACTION TO BE TAKEN ON DECISION SCRAPPING MUSLIM QUOTA: K'TAKA GOVT TO SC
NEW DELHI, (IANS) The Karnataka government on Tuesday assured the Supreme Court that it would not take action on its March 27 decision to scrap the 4 per cent Muslim quota in the OBC category for jobs and education.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Karnataka government, said he will be filing the reply during the day.
A bench of Justices K.M. Joseph and B.V. Nagarathna considered Mehta's submission and scheduled the matter for consideration on May 9. The apex court ordered that the earlier arrangement will continue till the next date of hearing as Mehta sought adjournment in the matter. The Solicitor General said he is in personal difficulty, as he is arguing before the constitution bench which is hearing petitions related to same-sex marriage.
He urged the court to put the matter for hearing on some other day. The bench said no appointment as per assurance by the Solicitor General would be made and no prejudice would be caused to any contention. Senior advocate Dushyant Dave, appearing for the petitioners, submitted that the hearing has already been deferred four times, while opposing Mehta's request to adjourn the matter. Dave said they will again do it and the petitioners would be affected by it. Mehta said the interim order passed by the court is already in the petitioners. Mehta, on April 18, had submitted that the Karnataka government would need more time to file its affidavit. The apex court deferred the hearing till April 25.
NITISH KUMAR'S OPPOSITION UNITY MOVES WOULD NOT IMPACT BJP, SAYS SUSHIL MODI
money transfer channels for furthering the terrorist activities of HM cadres.
The NIA launched investigations in November 2011 into the criminal conspiracy to raise/collect/provide funds to commit terrorist acts and distribute funds among the terror groups and their sympathizers in Jammu and Kashmir for the purpose of committing terrorist acts.
The Special Cell of Delhi Police had initially registered a case in January 2011 and the case was subsequently taken over by NIA. Chargesheets as well as Supplementary Chargesheets were filed against eight accused in the case, including in 2011 and 2018.
NIA has been cracking down on terror funding machinery in a bid to dismantle the terrorist financing ecosystem operating in Jammu and Kashmir with the help of individuals based in Pakistan and other countries.
'UTTAR PRADESH IS NOT ANYONE'S PROPERTY, EXTORTION NOT ALLOWED' ROARS CM YOGI ADITYANATH IN SAHARANPUR
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday while kicking off an election campaign in Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur asserted that law and order in the state have improved since his government came into power. He further said that nowadays Uttar Pradesh is being identified by its grand festivals and not by the mafia. Adityanath also spoke about the achievements of his government and charged that earlier governments were busy instigating riots. Amidst loud applause from locals, CM Yogi Adityanath made it clear that Uttar Pradesh is not anyone's property and extortion in the state will not be allowed. He also said that now people of Uttar Pradesh are witnessing no riots and curfews and all is good. Lashing out at the previous governments, the chief minister said, "Before 2017, the governments here did not have time for anything other than creating riots but today there is no curfew in Uttar Pradesh. Now the Kanwar Yatra is taken out. Earlier, fake cases were lodged against the youth but now no one can do that." "Earlier daughters were afraid to leave their homes. Today, however, there is a fear-free atmosphere in Uttar Pradesh," he said. UP CM also made a fervent appeal to people to support the saffron party in the upcoming urban body elections and said "this election is for connecting the third engine to the double engine government. Once that is done, the money that will come from Delhi will be put to good use." Cautioning the voters against other forces, he said, "We have to decide whether we want a casteist governments which were in place before the 2017 period or a government which is dedicated to the welfare of the poor. We all have to decide whether to have a corruption-ridden system or a corruption-free system.
PATNA, (IANS) BJP Rajya Sabha member Sushil Kumar Modi on Monday dismissed Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's meetings with his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav for opposition unity, saying that they would not affect his party.
"Nitish Kumar would make an alliance of opposition parties but there is no vacancy for him in 2024. Nitishji is travelling on the government expenses. If you want to work on opposition unity, why are you roaming on government aircraft? You should have to roam with the aircraft of your party," he said.
"Akhilesh Yadav is looking for opposition unity but can he work with Mayawati? Similarly, Mamata Banerjee and Congress will not join hands. Mamata Banerjee is doing politics on the pitch of the Congress. She will be politically destroyed once she makes an alliance with the Congress," he claimed.
Mid Week 13 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 INDIA
PAKISTAN: IMRAN KHAN'S PARTY TO LAUNCH ELECTION CAMPAIGN IN PUNJAB
Former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan on Sunday announced that his party is slated to launch its election campaign officially on Monday. Although there has been no clarity on the date of the polls in the politically crucial province. Announcing the same on Twitter, PTI Secretary General Asad Umar said, "Tehreek-e-Insaf will officially launch its election campaign tomorrow. They (Pakistan Democratic Movement) may not be ready but we are ready." The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) is a coalition of political parties headed by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) currently ruling the country. Interestingly, PTI’s announcement of launching the election campaign comes despite uncertainty surrounding the elections in Punjab, the most populous province which also sends nearly 150 lawmakers to the National Assembly. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is waiting for funds from the federal government to conduct the elections. The Defence Ministry has informed the ECP that the Pakistan Army will not be available for providing security. Parliament and the judiciary have also locked horns over the holding of elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces as the cash-strapped government has refused to authorise the funds to meet the expenditures amidst the economic crisis facing the country. The Supreme Court has directed the federal government to release Rs 21 billion in funds for the ECP by April 10 and provide security for the elections. However, the government has
refused to release funds for the polls as the Parliament rejected the proposal. The defence ministry had also filed a petition in the Supreme Court calling it to take back its order of holding polls on May 14. The case is being heard in the Supreme Court and during the proceedings Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial remarked that the threemember bench will not take back its order for holding polls on May 14. Former prime minister Khan has been pushing for snap elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the provinces where his PTI ruled till recently. The PTI dissolved the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies on January 14 and 18, respectively, in a bid to force the ruling PDM coalition in Islamabad to hold early general elections in the country. The PTI finalised a list of 297 candidates recently after PTI Chairman Khan interviewed all party candidates in person to uphold merit in awarding party tickets, media reports said. But the allotment of tickets has not gone well within the party as many high-profile leaders were snubbed, the reports said. Meanwhile, Geo News reported, citing sources, that Khan was planning to include the party's Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Umar in the review committee to address objections. The current term of the National Assembly will complete its five-year term in August this year. According to the Constitution, elections shall be held within 90 days after the dissolution of the lower house. This means that the election must be held by mid-October. The last general election was held in July 2018.
RUSSIA CLAIMS US DENIES VISA TO SCRIBES AIM TO COVER LAVROV'S TRIP; KREMLIN SAYS 'WON'T FORGET, WON'T FORGIVE'
Amid tensions between Russia and the United States, Moscow on Sunday claimed that the Biden administration denied visas to journalists who wanted to cover the upcoming trip of Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to New York. Although the US did not respond to the claims, Lavrov suggested that Kremlin would take "strong retaliatory measures". According to Russia, the journalists aimed to cover Lavrov’s appearance at the United Nations to mark Russia’s chairmanship of the Security Council.
"Americans will remember for a long time"
Meanwhile, before heading for New York, Lavrov, in staunch words, slammed the US and said, "A country that calls itself the strongest, smartest, free and fair country has chickened out and done something stupid by showing what its sworn assurances about protecting freedom of speech and access to information are really worth."
“Be sure that we will not forget and will not forgive,” he said.
Echoing the same, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov asserted that the Kremlin would find all its ways to respond strictly to the denial of the visa to the journalist.
"I emphasize that we will find ways to respond to this, so that the Americans will remember for a long time not to do this," Ryabkov said.
Tit-for-tat measure
It is worth mentioning the latest development came nearly a month after
Russia arrested Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in the case of espionage. The United States has declared him to be "wrongfully detained" and appealed to release him. However, the Kremlin maintained its earlier stance and said the journo will remain in their custody.
On several instances, US President Joe Biden and his top diplomat Antony Blinken spoke to Russian officials about the release of the American scribe but Moscow did not respond positively.
BRITISH DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER DOMINIC RAAB RESIGNS OVER BULLYING ALLEGATIONS
LONDON: British Deputy Prime Minister and justice minister Dominic Raab resigned on Friday (April 21) amid bullying allegations. It is alleged that Raab bullied staff members while working as a cabinet minister across different UK government departments. Raab’s resignation came after an independent investigation into formal complaints of bullying. In a letter to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak posted on Twitter, Raab said, “I called for the inquiry and undertook to resign if it made any finding of bullying whatsoever. I believe it is important to keep my word.” The Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary Raab was appointed by Rishi Sunak after he took power in October. “It has been a privilege to serve you as Deputy Prime Minister. Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work as a Minister in a range of roles and departments since 2015 and pay tribute to the many outstanding civil servants with whom I have worked,” he said. He further said that the inquiry had set a dangerous precedent, but that he would remain supportive of the government. “Whilst I feel duty bound to accept the outcome of the inquiry, it dismissed all but two of the claims levelled against me. I also believe that its two adverse findings are flawed and set a dangerous precedent for the conduct of good government,” he said. Raab said, “In setting the threshold for bullying so low, this inquiry has set a dangerous precedent. It will encourage spurious complaints against Ministers, and have a chilling effect on those driving change on behalf of your government - and ultimately the British people.” Sunak had
come under pressure soon after he appointed Raab, a staunch supporter of his leadership for the Conservative Party and government during the campaign last year, to the two key Cabinet posts as the bullying allegations emerged. Downing Street said at the time that Sunak was "not aware" of any formal complaints against Raab when he appointed him in October last year. However, the Opposition Labour Party accused Sunak of ignoring reports about Raab's conduct. Raab's departure follows Sunak's decision to dismiss Tory party chairman Nadhim Zahawi from his post in January after the former chancellor was found to have broken the ministerial code over his tax affairs.
US SUPREME COURT PROTECTS ACCESS TO WIDELY USED ABORTION PILL
The Supreme Court on Friday preserved women’s access to a drug used in the most common method of abortion, rejecting lower-cour t restrictions while a lawsuit continues. The justices granted emergency requests from the Biden administration and New York-based Danco Laboratories, maker of the drug Mifepristone. They are appealing a lower court ruling that would roll back the Food and Drug Administration's approval of mifepristone. The drug has been approved for use in the US since 2000 and more than 5 million people have used it. Mifepristone is used in combination with a second drug, misoprostol, in more than half of all abortions in the US.
The court’s action Friday almost certainly will leave access to mifepristone unchanged at least into next year, as appeals play out, including a potential appeal to the high court. The next stop for the case is at the New Orleans-based U. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, which has set arguments in the case for May 17.
Two of the nine justices — Samuel Alito, the author of last year’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade, and Clarence Thomas — voted to allow restrictions to take effect, and Alito issued a four-page dissent. No other justices commented on the court’s one-paragraph order, and the court did not release a full vote breakdown. President Joe Biden praised the high court for keeping mifepristone available while the court fight continues. “The stakes could not be higher for women across America. I will continue to fight politically-driven attacks on women’s health. But let’s be clear — the American people must continue to use their vote as their voice, and elect a Congress who will pass a law restoring the protections of Roe v. Wade,” Biden said in a statement. Alliance Defending Freedom, representing abortion opponents challenging the FDA’s approval of mifepristone, downplayed the court’s action. “As is common practice, the Supreme Court has decided to maintain the status quo that existed prior to our lawsuit while our challenge to the FDA’s illegal approval of chemical abortion drugs and its removal of critical safeguards for those drugs moves forward,” ADF lawyer Erik Baptist said in a statement.
The United States is observing that 2024 is going to be a “big year” for the India-US relationship as President Joe Biden is looking forward to travelling to India in September. Biden administration's point person for South and Central Asia confirmed President’s India visit and said that India's leadership in the G-20 further broadens its capacity to stand as a force for good in the world.
'Big Year For India-US Ties'
"This is gonna be a big year. Of course, India is hosting the G-20. This year, the United States is hosting APEC. Japan is hosting the G7. We have lots of our QUAD members who are taking on leadership roles. And it provides opportunities for all of us to bring our countries closer together," Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Donald Lu, told news agency PTI in an interview on Thursday.
“I know our President is looking forward to travelling to India in September. That will be his first trip to India as part of the G-20 Leaders Summit. We are really excited about what's to come in the next few months,” he said. “We are only a little over three months into this new year. And we have had a number of really exciting things that happened,” he added.
Secretary of State Tony Blinken, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo have already visited India this year. The India-US Forum in Delhi was attended by several senior administration officials.
India as the president of the G-20 has been taking a lead in advancing a positive agenda for the G-20. “In March Dr Jaishankar hosted his QUAD counterparts for a ministerial meeting and extraordinary public events at the Raisina Dialogue with all four foreign ministers together. It was the first such public discussion with QUAD foreign ministers and really drove home how our four countries are coming together to support the people of the Indo-Pacific,” he said.
“And then lastly, this month, the arrival of our new Ambassador Eric Garcetti. He has already received a really warm welcome from our Indian and American staff at the US Embassy. Once he presents his credentials, he is looking forward to meeting with the rest of India and I think India will find that he is young, he is enthusiastic, and he's eager to bring our relations to new heights,” Lu said. 'Tremendous work done by India '
“We are really thankful for the tremendous work India has done by hosting the G-20 Foreign Ministerial meeting last month, and we look forward to actively participating in the many future G-20 meetings coming up this year, including the New Delhi Leaders Summit in September,” he said.
At the foreign ministers' meeting, India created an agenda that allowed them to discuss some of the world's most pressing challenges and deliberate to find concrete solutions. “We have seen how the G-20 brings together countries for collective action. This meeting in March was no exception. As India has already shown during the first few meetings of its presidency, the G-20 is a powerful forum where the world's leading economies can come together to respond to global challenges: food security, health, energy insecurity, climate change and unsustainable debt,” he said.
'PLAYING WITH FIRE': CHINA FOREIGN MINISTER QIN GANG STEPS UP THREATS AGAINST TAIWAN
Amid escalating tension between China and Taiwan, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang stepped up threats on Friday against the selfgoverning island, saying anyone who goes against Beijing's demand to exert control over the island is “playing with fire.” He mentioned the Taiwan issue at the end of a speech espousing China's contribution to the global economy and the interests of developing nations. Qin highlighted the 'Taiwan problem' toward the end of his speech in the financial hub of Shanghai. Qin used harsher terms than Chinese diplomats have typically employed in past in international settings. “The safeguarding of national sovereignty and territorial integrity is beyond reproach,” Qin said. "The Taiwan problem is at the core of China's core interests,” he said. "We will never back down in the face of any act that undermines China's sovereignty and security. Those who play with fire on the question of Taiwan will burn themselves.”
Such remarks are typically directed at the island's democratically elected government under President Tsai Ing-wen and its most important ally, the United States.
China considers Taiwan a part of its territory to be annexed by force if necessary. Earlier in April, China held large-scale air and sea drills in the in areas surrounding Taiwan in retaliation for Tsai's meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on April 5 in California. China said the exercises simulating an encirclement of Taiwan were intended as a “serious warning” to pro-independence politicians on the self-governing island and their foreign supporters. China has stepped up its military pressure and diplomatic isolation against Taiwan in recent years, sending fighter jets and navy vessels towards the island on a near-daily basis. While Taiwan maintains official diplomatic relations with just 13 sovereign states, it retains robust ties with most major nations, including the US.
14 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 WORLD
PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN TO VISIT INDIA THIS SEPTEMBER, US SAYS ‘2023 TO BE "BIG YEAR" FOR INDIA-US RELATIONSHIP'
Mid Week 15 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023
16 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023
PRIYANKA CHOPRA REVEALS HER FIRST REACTION
TO SEEING JONAS ADDED TO HER NAME, TOLD NICK 'YOU KNOW…'
ACTRESS JANHVI KAPOOR CHARGING RS 5 CRORE FOR HER NEXT WITH JR NTR: REPORTS
Janhvi Kapoor is set to make her South Debut with Jr NTR for the movie NTR 30. Recently at the India Today Conclave, the actress expressed her excitement for this role, as she said she has been counting the days to the film’s shoot. Sharing screen space with Jr NTR will be one of the biggest joys of her life, she added. According to media reports, she has asked for Rs 5 crore for the role, which is similar to the amount which Shraddha Kapoor was paid for her role in Saaho. To debut in Tollywood with superstar actors like Jr NTR is the dream of many Indian actresses. To not let this opportunity go in vain, Janhvi Kapoor said she is willing to give 100 percent to the role. With her recent OTT releases like Milli and Goodluck Jerry, she has received public appreciation for her roles. It is believed that the sense of maturity Janvhi Kapoor has displayed in selecting good movies of late has resulted in her achieving this mega-budget movie.
PRIYANKA CHOPRA AND NICK JONAS TIED THE SACRED KNOT BACK IN 2018 DECEMBER. THE LOVE BIRDS HAVE BEEN GOING STRONG EVER SINCE AND DISH OUT MAJOR COUPLE GOALS. THE ACTRESS RECENTLY OPENED UP ABOUT HER RELATIONSHIP AND ALSO RECOLLECTED ABOUT THE FIRST TIME SHE SAW JONAS ATTACHED TO HER NAME, AFTER HER MARRIAGE. WHILE PROMOTING HER NEXT CITADEL, THE ACTRESS TOLD FOX5, “IT’S A REMINDER TO PEOPLE THAT I AM TAKEN." SHE ADDED, “FOR THE FIRST TIME WHEN I SAW IT, I I THINK IT WAS THE MATRIX OR ONE OF MY OTHER MOVIES OR MY BOOK OR SOMETHING. I LOOKED AT MY HUSBAND AND I WAS LIKE, ‘YOU KNOW RIGHT. THAT I LOVE YOU. CAN YOU TELL? YOU BETTER KNOW THAT.’ BUT OF COURSE THE GRAVITY OF OF THE DECISION AND ALSO THE FACT THAT MY NAME AND MY IDENTITY HAS EVOLVED IN THE 22-23 YEARS THAT I’VE BEEN DOING THIS.” SHE FURTHER ADDED, “I THINK THE EXCITEMENT IS STILL SEEING YOURSELF UP THERE. YOU CAN CALL ME PRIYANKA, YOU CAN CALL ME PRI, YOU CAN CALL ME PCJ, WHATEVER. IT DOESN’T CHANGE THE FACT THAT IT’S ME UP THERE AND THAT’S EXCITING.”
NEHA SHARMA'S OOPS MOMENT IN BOLD BRALETTE WHILE WALKING RAMP INVITES HEAVY TROLLING
ELIZABETH OLSEN FINDS IT 'RIDICULOUS' DOING HER OWN STUNTS
KATRINA KAIF SPARKS PREGNANCY RUMOURS AGAIN AFTER VIRAL VIDEO FROM EID PARTY
PARINEETI CHOPRA TROLLED AS SHE REMAINS MUM ON WEDDING REPORTS
Each time Parineeti Chopra is snapped by the paparazzi, she is asked only one question - ‘Shaadi Kab Hai (When are you getting married)?’ Her dating and wedding rumours with Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha have been making headlines for a long time now. However, the two have maintained silence on the same and have not issued any clarification as of now. On Monday night too, Parineeti was spotted by the paparazzi at the Mumbai airport when they asked her the same question - ‘Shaadi Kab Hai (When is the wedding)?’ Not just this, one of the shutterbugs insisted the Code Name: Tiranga actress to reveal details about her wedding plans and joked ‘hum log bhi kurta silwa lete hai (we also have to get a kurta stitched)’. Some even said, ‘Hum ladki wale hai (we are from team Bride)’ and ‘Mam bata do na (Mam please tell us)’.
NEHA SHARMA SUFFERED AN 'OOPS MOMENT' AS SHE WALKED THE RAMP IN A BOLD LEHENGA CHOLI DESIGNED BY ANISHA SHETTY.
ACTRESS ELIZABETH OLSEN HAS TALKED ABOUT DOING HER OWN STUNTS AND SAID THAT THERE ARE "STUNT DOUBLES" FOR A REASON.
ON SATURDAY NIGHT, WHEN THE ACTRESS ARRIVED AT THE EID PARTY, HER GESTURES WITH HER DUPATTA AGAIN SPARKED PREGNANCY RUMOURS.
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NEHA SHARMA'S OOPS MOMENT IN BOLD BRALETTE WHILE WALKING RAMP INVITES HEAVY TROLLING
Bollywood actress Neha Sharma recently made heads turn with her bold sense of style at a fashion show in Mumbai. Keeping her best fashion foot forward, the actress arrived wearing a yellow floral lehenga which she paired with a fashionable blouse. She along with Malaika Arora, Bhumi Pednekar and Mouni Roy were among the many celebrities who walked the ramp. What caught everyone’s attention was Neha Sharma's cleavage-baring choli with a sequin lehenga. Neha flaunted her sexy curves in the gorgeous lehenga choli that she wore with beautiful emerald-studded jewellery. However, actress' outfit failed to impress netizens as they started to troll her. Many users called her out for wearing such an uncomfortable dress as the actress suffered an 'oops moment' while she was posing for the paparazzi post the show.
One user wrote, “What kind of top is that?" Another user commented, “Irrespective of good or bad, the outfit itself is so uncomfortable. It’s looking seductive than grace." A third comment read, "She herself
feels uncomfortable the way she is looking down to her so called disaster." Another comment read, “Esa fashion b bekar h ladkiya khud apna majak bnwati h or unki ye lgta h hm bhut Sundar lg rhe hai.” Meanwhile, Neha recently made headlines after she bought a new car with her sister Aisha Sharma. “May we keep working hard and may God always be kind to us and may we be forever grateful… #gratitude @aishasharma25," Neha tweeted along with a few pictures. Reportedly, the car is worth Rs 1.09 crores.
On the professional front, Neha Sharma forayed into Bollywood in 2010 with Mahesh Bhatt produced film ‘Crook’ alongside Emraan Hashmi. She also appeared in movies like Kyaa Super Kool Hai Hum, Yamla Pagla Deewana 2, Tanhaji, Youngistaan, and Tum Bin among others. She will next be seen in ‘Jogira Sara Ra Ra,’ alongside Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The film also stars Sanjay Mishra and Mahaakshay Chakraborty in key roles. The release date is yet to be announced. Further, Neha made her digital debut with the legal thriller show 'llegal.'
SHAH RUKH KHAN TURNS MUSE FOR SON ARYAN KHAN'S LUXURY NEW CLOTHING BRAND
Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan on Monday teased fans about his upcoming clothing wear. In December 2022, Aryan marked his entrepreneur debut along with family friends-turned-business partners Bunty Singh and Leti Blagoeva and launched the premium vodka brandD'Yavol. Now, expanding it, SRK's son started luxury streetwear with D'Yavol X and Shah Rukh Khan has turned muse for the brand. Announcing the brand's first look, Aryan dropped a teaser ahead of its upcoming ad, which is shot by the starkid himself. On April 24, Khan released a teaser of the brand promo on his Instagram and announced his association with Aryan's brand and wrote, "X marks the spot. 24 hours to go." In the video, he strikes off the word ‘timeless’ on a blackboard and picks up a paintbrush after dropping it on the floor to paint an X mark. In the end, there is a glimpse of the actor's face. On the other hand, sharing the announcement video, Aryan wrote, "ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVW_YZ X will be here in 24 hours…Follow @dyavol.x for exclusive content." The full video will be dropped on Tuesday (April 25). “It’s been nearly 5 years since the conception of this lifestyle luxury collective. D’Yavol is finally here,” he had also written on social media.
Aryan is the oldest child of Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan. He has a sister, Suhana Khan, who is all set to mark her Bollywood debut with Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies this year, and a younger brother –AbRam Khan. Apart from D'Yavol, Aryan will also be making his film debut as he is currently working on his first film as a writer and director, which will be backed by his parents' production house, Red Chillies Entertainment.
What's next for Shah Ruk Khan?
SRK is currently gearing up for his next big release 'Jawan', directed by Atlee. The movie marks Soth actress Nayanthara's Bollywood debut. His comeback movie 'Pathaan' has been ruling the box office
till now and has created history by becoming the first ever Hindi movie to enter the 1000 core club.
The Bollywood superstar is currently in Kashmir where he is reportedly shooting for Rajkumar Hirani's next film Dunki. The film sees him with Taapse Panna.
KRUSHNA ABHISHEK CONFIRMS HIS RETURN AS SAPNA ON THE KAPIL SHARMA SHOW, SAYS 'USSI KI WAJAH SE...'
MUMBAI, (IANS) Actor Vidyut Jammwal, who plays an Intelligence Bureau (IB) agent in his upcoming film 'IB 71', has shared that he got the chance to work with those whom he always wanted to collaborate with, be it the technicians or the actors. The film is Vidyut's maiden production and being a producer gave him a greater control on the film and its daily working. "For this film, I got a chance to work with all those people whom I wanted to work with for a long long time, be it the technicians, the actors, the entire team of the film. So, guys thank you to all of you for being a part of 'IB 71'."
On Monday, the makers of the film launched its trailer. The over two-minute clip, shows Vidyut and his co-actor Anupam Kher planning it out on how to keep the nation safe from an attack by Pakistan in 1971. The trailer is a glimpse into some thrilling scenes which include saving an airplane from crashing and what Vidyut does best -- beating up bad guys. Talking about the film, the actor said: "IB 71 is a story about the most classified mission that gave us advantage in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. I am thrilled to bring this story of our IB (Intelligence Bureau) officers who are the true unsung heroes of India." The actor also mentioned that he functions on trust and never doubts those approaching him as is very accessible and friendly. He said: "Jo bhi aayega apna dost hai, aur paas aayega apna best friend hai (anyone who comes to me, I look them up as a friend or a best depending on the proximity). This world works on trust and I'm sure we all have the window of trust always open. So why should I doubt anyone or be afraid of them?" The film's trailer launch was attended by director Sankalp Reddy, Vishal Jethwa, Dalip Tahil, Danny Sura and Niharica Raizada. The film is produced by Vidyut Jammwal and Abbas Sayyed, and co-produced by Aditya Shastri, Aditya Chowksey and Shiv Chanana. The film is directed by national award winner Sankalp Reddy with the story by Aditya Shastri and the screenplay by Storyhouse Films LLP.
The film is slated for a theatrical release on May 12.
ALIA BHATT SHARES AWWDORABLE PHOTO OF RANBIR KAPOOR & BABY RAHA, CALLS THEM HER 'WORLD'
Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor are one of the most loved couples in the Tinsel town. The pair never fails to paint the town red. Recently, Alia Bhatt shared a picture of Ranbir Kapoor with their daughter Raha. The picture gives a glimpse of the daddaughter duo.
On Monday, Alia Bhatt took to her Instagram account to share the ideal image to lift everyone's spirits on a Monday. In the picture, as Raha was not visible on the camera, Ranbir was seen staring at Raha with his right arm stretched inside the stroller. While seated next to the stroller on a chair, Ranbir was seen sporting a t-shirt and shorts. Sharing the picture, the actress wrote, "I think have become the best photographer since the 6th of November. My world."
Krushna Abhishek, a key player in the most-watched comedy show, The Kapil Sharma Show, is all set to return. The stand-up comed ianactor who is popularly known for playing the role of Sapna confirmed his return. He revealed that his decision followed after there was 'a change of contract', adding that all the issues 'including money' has been resolved. Also, Krushna has begun shooting for his role. Confirming the news, Krushna told TOI, “It’s not a change of heart but a change of contract (laughs!). The contract had several concerns, including money, but all issues have been resolved. The show and the channel are like family, and I am glad to be back.” "Sapna ki entry hogi badhiya tarah se. Ghar ka bhoola shaam ko ghar par laut kar aaye toh usko bhoola nahi kehte. Ye wohi wala hisaab hai. I share a long-standing relationship with the channel and the makers of the show. Woh relationship itna pure aur achha hai ki ussi ki wajah se main wapas aaya. I am also grateful to the audience who has been asking to bring me back on the show. I think the l ove of everyone and mine for those associated with the show has worked as a catalyst for my comeback (smiles),” he added. Krushna also talked about receiving a warm welcome on the first day of the rehearsal at Kapil Sharma's home. "Kiku (Sharda) hug ged me as soon as he saw me. I spoke with Archana (Puran Singh) ji on the phone, and she, too, was quite excited about my return. Kapil was also extremely happy and greeted me warmly. As I said in my previous interview, there is no rivalry or one-upmanship, and we si t together to work on our script, we are doing the same even now. Kapil has suggested jokes, as he wants me to give my best since Sapna is back." Meanwhile, The Kapil Sharma Show is rumoured to temporarily go off air in July. While Kapil Sharma recently revealed that it has not yet been decided, he also disclosed that the team will be going to the United States for a live tour in July. The Kapil Sharma Show is currently airing its fourth season. It premieres on Sony TV, every Saturday and Sunday, at 9.30 pm.
As soon as she shared the picture, fans flocked to the comment section to react to it. One user wrote, "Adorable." Another user commented, "Too cute." A third user wrote, "Love you, RK."
For the unversed, After dating each other for quite some time, the couple tied the knot on April 14, 2022, at their Mumbai residence. The pair had an intimate ceremony with only close friends and family members in attendance. Last year (2022) became even more special for the two with the arrival of their daughter Raha. Meanwhile, on the work front, Alia is all set to star in Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani alongside Ranveer Singh. The film also stars Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan and Shabana Azmi. She also has Jee Le Zaraa with Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra in her kitty. On the other hand, Ranbir Kapoor is gearing up for the release of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal. The film also features Rashmika Mandanna and Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol and Tripti Dimri in pivotal roles.
Mid Week 19 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 BOLLYWOOD
'IB 71' ACTOR VIDYUT JAMMWAL SAYS HE'S VERY FRIENDLY, ACCESSIBLE
'IT IS MY RESPONSIBILITY TO BRING SOUTH ASIAN COMMUNITY TO THE FOREFRONT': PRIYANKA
MUMBAI, (IANS) Actress-producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who recently flew down to India for professional commitments, is all set to be seen in the upcoming streaming series 'Citadel,' in which she plays an elite spy along with Richard Madden.
Priyanka transitioned to the west almost a decade ago as she explored opportunities in music and worked with the likes of Pitbull and will.i.am, and eventually starred in projects like 'Quantico' and 'Baywatch', with 'Citadel' on the horizon.
The actress might have been in the west for quite sometime but she holds her Indian values close to her heart. Talking to IANS, PC said: "India is my identity. Wherever I go in the world, I am an Indian first and then everything else. I take a lot of pride in being born in a country which boasts of an ancient culture and such a mind-blowing mix of people." She then factored in the concept of Indian hospitality which is known all over the world as she shared: "And I mean the world knows that nothing can come even remotely close to the Indian hospitality and the sentiment of 'atithi devo bhavah'. So, these are the values that I hold close to my heart and practice in my everyday life because that's who I am."
Being an Indian in a sea of American talents, who call the shots in Hollywood, it also gives her a sense of purpose. She told IANS: "It has been my aim to represent India on the international canvas. People from the South Asian community have been working in the west for very many years but, for some reason they were never given a chance to headline a project or to feature on the posters of an international film, in most of the cases."
She further mentioned: "When I started working in the west, it became very important for me to bring my community to the forefront and to bring in the recognition for the country which practically is one of the biggest film and entertainment markets. I take it up as my responsibility to ensure that all people from the South Asian community appear on the poster or headline the projects for the English content which is the global content and is viewed in most of the countries."
The first episode of 'Citadel' perfectly sets the tone for the series with its pitch-perfect mounting of action and establishment of characters as a lot of drama unfolds between the heavy action sequences. When asked if she did any improvisation or if she went completely by the book. Thie actress said: "The most interesting part about the opening sequence was that there was a lot of action happening inside the train - People were dying, an explosion was happening and I and Richard were still having a dialogue, screaming at each other across the two ends of the coach because that's how the relationship between these two agents is." "So, there were a lot of improvisations even before the camera started rolling, while preparing the scenes we used to exchange a lot of information about the scene," she added. As a closure to the conversation with IANS, PC spoke about the merits of long-format content: "Long format content is a blessing for the actors because they get to explore the character more and the back stories." "As for the viewers, they also find it more engaging and invest more of their time trying to understand the world of the series or the film, the characters and where they come from," she concluded. 'Citadel' premieres on Prime Video on April 28.
HELEN FLANAGAN SAW A RAT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 2012 ON 'I'M A CELEBRITY...'
LOS ANGELES, (IANS) When British actress Helen Flanagan signed up for 'I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!' in 2012, she had no idea what she was getting herself into. She knew the show was hugely popular and recognised it had the power to supercharge her career, but it wasn't until she boarded the plane and started watching clips on YouTube that the full horror of her ordeal began to dawn on her, reports 'Mirror.co.uk'. "I just got absolutely destroyed," said Helen. "It was just ridiculous. I was just like, 'Oh, I'll be fine. I'll chill in my bikini, make some friends, it will be good for me...' I'd watched a few episodes but I didn't watch it in detail. I was only just YouTubing things when I was on my plane, then I was thinking, 'It won't be that bad'. As per 'Mirror.co.uk', when producers took Helen's phone off her, she was in tears before she even saw her first rat. "I was horrified," gasped Helen. "I'll never forget it. When I arrived at the camp there were rats everywhere. I'd never seen a rat. I was just absolutely thrown. I felt sick. I was so scared. I was just horrified by everything".
As Helen crumbled, viewers cruelly voted for her to do trial after trial. "I just got voted and voted and voted and I really struggled with everything," she said.
HOLLYWOOD
ED SHEERAN TO APPEAR IN COURT FOR 'THINKING OUT LOUD' COPYRIGHT LAWSUIT
The 'Shape of You' hitmaker Ed Sheeran is expected to take to the stand in a case which claims his 'Thinking Out Loud' tune violates a copyright.
The hit 2014 tune rocketed to number one in the UK charts - but there are claims it violates the copyright of the Marvin Gaye classic 'Let's Get It On', reports 'Mirror.co.uk'.
The opening statements and jury selection is now to begin in a case in which the heirs of Ed Townsend, Gaye's co-writer on the 1973 soul classic, claim Ed's song has "striking similarities" to the soul classic. The case was initially filed in 2017 and is now expected to last a week as the fight takes place in the Manhattan federal courtroom.
As per 'Mirror.co.uk', 'Let's Get It On' has been a sensation since its release 50 years ago, garnering hundreds of millions of streams, spins and radio plays over the decades. Ed's tune won a Grammy for song of the year, and is a much more marital take on love and sex than that in question. Both of the tunes are expected to be played to the jury on numerous occasions but it's thought the lyrics will be legally insignificant.
ELIZABETH OLSEN FINDS IT 'RIDICULOUS' DOING HER OWN STUNTS
LOS ANGELES, (IANS) Actress Elizabeth Olsen has talked about doing her own stunts and said that there are "stunt doubles" for a reason. During Wednesday's episode of 'The Late Show,' the 'Love & Death' star told Stephen Colbert that she has found doing most of her stunts in the Marvel Cinematic Universe "ridiculous," reports hollywoodreporter.com.
When specifically doing stunts attached to a wire, she said: "Your stomach leaves you. It's like, I guess, the joy people get on roller coasters, which I don't get, but people love that feeling."
The 'Godzilla' actress said when she first started doing stunts, she would just laugh, but that she's "definitely recovered from my giddiness. Sometimes I'm just like, 'Okay, how many more of these do you want? I can do this all day,' kind of thing. But sometimes I get a little freaked out."
She even recalled filming a stunt for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, where she had to be dropped from 30 feet in the air.
"They wanted to drop me pretty quickly so that it looked like it had an impact, but I kept landing like Peter Pan, kind of like fencing," she said. "I was like, 'Just use the double. This is so ridiculous. There is a double for a reason. Like, face replace.' They do it all the time."
20 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 BOLLYWOOD
SHILPA INTRODUCES HER KIDS TO 'MANGALOREAN' CULTURE, VISITS KULDEVI TEMPLE
FILMFARE AWARDS 2023 NOMINATIONS LIST: ALIA BHATT, JANHVI KAPOOR FOR BEST ACTRESS; VIVEK AGNIHOTRI IN RACE
The Nominees for the 68th Filmfare Awards have been announced! For decades, the elegant and prestigious Black Lady has been the epitome of credibility and success in the world of Indian cinema. The award ceremony will be hosted by Salman Khan alongside Ayushmann Khurrana and Maniesh Paul on April 27, 2023 at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai. Several awards were declared in the technical and non-technical categories with nominations in a total of 19 main categories. Vicky Kaushal, Tiger Shroff, Janhvi Kapoor, to Jacqueline Fernandez, many celebrities are ready to set the stage on fire with their breathtaking performances.
While Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Gangubai Kathiawadi starring Alia Bhatt has bagged ten nominations including Best Film, Best Director, Best actor in a leading role (female), Best Music Album and Best Debut (male), Vivek Agnihotri's The Kashmir Files is competing in six categories. Let's see the complete list.
Best Film
Badhaai Do
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2
Brahmastra Part One: Shiva
Gangubai Kathiawadi
The Kashmir Files
Uunchai
Best Director
Anees Bazmee (Bhool Bhulaiyaa
2)
Ayan Mukerji (Brahmastra Part
One: Shiva)
Harshvardhan Kulkarni (Badhaai
Do)
Sanjay Leela Bhansali (Gangubai
Kathiawadi)
Sooraj R. Barjatya (Uunchai)
Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (The Kashmir Files)
Best Film Critics'
Badhaai Do (Harshvardhan
Kulkarni)
Bhediya (Amar Kaushik)
Jhund (Nagraj Popatrao Manjule )
Rocketry: The Nambi Effect (R
Madhavan )
Vadh (Jaspal Singh Sandhu And Rajeev Barnwal
Best Actor In A Leading Role
(Male)
Ajay Devgn (Drishyam 2)
Amitabh Bachchan (Uunchai)
Anupam Kher (The Kashmir Files)
Hrithik Roshan (Vikram Vedha)
Kartik Aaryan (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2)
Rajkummar Rao (Badhaai Do)
Best Actor In A Leading Role (Female)
Alia Bhatt (Gangubai Kathiawadi)
Bhumi Pednekar (Badhaai Do)
Janhvi Kapoor (Mili)
Kareena Kapoor Khan (Laal Singh
Chaddha)
Tabu (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2)
Best Actor Critics
Amitabh Bachchan (Jhund)
R Madhavan (Rocketry: The Nambi Effect)
Rajkummar Rao (Badhaai Do)
Sanjay Mishra (Vadh)
Shahid Kapoor (Jersey)
Varun Dhawan (Bhediya)
Best Actress Critics
Bhumi Pednekar (Badhaai Do)
Kajol (Salaam Venky)
Neena Gupta (Vadh)
Taapsee Pannu (Shabaash Mithu)
Tabu (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2)
Best Actor In A Supporting Role (Male)
Anil Kapoor (Jugjugg Jeeyo)
Anupam Kher (Uunchai)
Darshan Kumar (The Kashmir Files)
Gulshan Devaiah (Badhaai Do)
Jaideep Ahlawat (An Action Hero)
Maniesh Paul (Jugjugg Jeyo)
Mithun Chakraborty (The Kashmir Files)
Best Actor In A Supporting Role
(Female)
Mouni Roy (Brahmastra Part
One: Shiva)
Neetu Kapoor (Jugjugg Jeeyo)
Sheeba Chaddha (Badhaai Do)
Sheeba Chaddha (Doctor G)
Shefali Shah (Doctor G)
Simran (Rocketry: The Nambi Effect)
Best Music Album
Amit Trivedi (Uunchai)
Pritam (Brahmastra Part One: Shiva)
Pritam (Laal Singh Chaddha)
Sachin Jigar (Bhediya)
Sanjay Leela Bhansali (Gangubai
Kathiawadi)
Best Playback Singer (Male)
Abhay Jodhpurkar (Maange Manzooriyan- Badhaai Do)
Arijit Singh (Apna Bana LeBhediya)
Arijit Singh (Deva DevaBrahmastra Part One: Shiva)
Arijit Singh (KesariyaBrahmastra Part One: Shiva)
Sonu Nigam (Main Ki KaraanLaal Singh Chaddha)
Best Playback Singer (Female)
Jahnvi Shrimankar (DholidaGangubai Kathiawadi)
Jonita Gandhi (Deva DevaBrahmastra Part One: Shiva)
Kavita Seth (Rangisari- Jugjugg
Jeeyo)
Shilpa Rao (Tere Hawaale- Laal Singh Chaddha)
Shreya Ghoshal (Jab SaiyaanGangubai Kathiawadi)
Best Lyrics
A M Turaz (Jab SaiyaanGangubai Kathiawadi)
Amitabh Bhattacharya (Apna
Bana Le Piya- Bhediya)
Amitabh Bhattacharya (KesariyaBrahmastra Part One: Shiva)
Amitabh Bhattacharya (Tere
Hawaale- Laal Singh Chaddha)
Shellee (Maiyya Mainu- Jersey)
Best Debut Director
Anirudh Iyer (An Action Hero)
Anubhuti Kashyap (Doctor G)
Jai Basantu Singh (Janhit Mein
Jaari)
Jaspal Singh Sandhu And Rajeev
Barnwal (Vadh)
R Madhavan (Rocketry: The Nambi Effect)
Best Debut Male
Abhay Mishr (Doctor G)
Ankush Gedam (Jhund)
Paalin Kabak (Bhediya)
Shantanu Maheshwari (Gangubai
Kathiawadi)
Best Debut Female
Andrea Kevichusa (Anek)
Khushali Kumar (Dhokha: Round D Corner)
Manushi Chhillar (Samrat
Prithviraj)
Prajakta Koli (Jugjugg Jeeyo)
Best Story
Akshat Ghildial, Suman Adhikary (Badhaai Do)
Anirudh Iyer (An Action Hero)
Jaspal Singh Sandhu And Rajeev
Barnwal (Vadh)
Niren Bhatt (Bhediya)
Sunil Gandhi (Uunchai)
Best Screenplay
Aakash Kaushik (Bhool Bhulaiyaa
2)
Akshat Ghildial, Suman Adhikary And Harshavardhan Kulkarni (Badhaai Do)
Jaspal Singh Sandhu And Rajeev Barnwal (Vadh)
Neeraj Yadav (An Action Hero)
Sanjay Leela Bhansali And Utkarshini Vashishtha (Gangubai
Kathiawadi)
Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (The Kashmir Files)
Best Dialogue
Abhishek Dixit (Uunchai)
Akshat Ghildial (Badhaai Do)
Manoj Muntashir And B.A.Fida (Vikram Vedha)
Neeraj Yadav (An Action Hero)
Prakash Kapadia, Utkarshini
Vashishtha (Gangubai
Kathiawadi)
Sumit Saxena (Doctor G)
MUMBAI, (IANS) Shilpa Shetty along with her family visited the Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple in Kateel, Mangalore. The Bollywood actress and entrepreneur said that she wanted to introduce her kids to her Mangalorean heritage and culture, which she is very proud of.
Shilpa on Sunday took to Instagram, where she shared a video featuring her mother, sister Shamita and her two children Viaan and Samisha. She captioned it: "Back to my native roots Mangalore. Paying my obeisance to our Kuldevi #Kateeldurgaparmeshwari and introducing my Mangalorean heritage and culture to my children, that I am so proud of."
On the work front, Shilpa will be seen in Rohit Shetty's 'Indian Police Force', an upcoming cop action drama streaming series. This series stars Sidharth Malhotra and Vivek Oberoi in the lead. It is set in Shetty's fictional Cop Universe. She was last seen on the big screen in 'Nikamma' in 2022, which also stars Abhimanyu Dassani and Shirley Setia.
JENNIFER ANISTON IS OPEN FOR MORE 'MURDER MYSTERY' FILMS AFTER SEQUEL
Actress Jennifer Aniston would love to make a third 'Murder Mystery' film.
The 54-year-old actress teamed up with close pal Adam Sandler in the mystery comedy Netflix movies, starting with the 2019 original and this year's sequel, and she hopes Nick and Audrey Spitz will be back for more antics, reports aceshowbiz.com.
"I hope so. I would love to make it three and I know Adam would too. But it really all depends on if people love this one like they did the first, and of course, if Netflix want us," she said with regard to another installment when speaking to Best UK. The former 'Friends' star, who, along with Adam, serves as a producer on the movie, was recently asked whether she and Adam stick to the script entirely or whether they ad-lib and admitted that it can be a mix of both depending on the take, as the pair both noted how much they make each other laugh on set. She told Collider: "We do a little bit of everything.
Mid Week 21 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 BOLLYWOOD
INDO-BANGLA PARTNERSHIP CRUCIAL FOR BENGALI CINEMA: BANGLADESHI ACTOR NUSRAAT FARIA
NEW DELHI, (IANS) Believing that Bengali is one of the world's most beautiful and revered languages, Bangladeshi actor Nusraat Faria says that Indo-Bangla partnership is important for putting the language on the world map.
"We live in the time of globalisation. This is an era when geographical boundaries are redundant. The two nations must keep collaborating in the field of cinema. I have had the privilege of working in nine IndoBangla productions, and the experience has been unforgettable," she asserts. Faria will be seen in Shyam Benegal's 'Bongobondhu', in which she essays the role of Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh's Prime Minister. An actor, singer, RJ and reality show host, Faria stresses that she thinks of herself as an entertainer and enjoys everything to do with the arts. "Going with the flow is my thing," she says.
All praise for new age Bangladeshi directors, the actor asserts they boast of fresh perspectives, bring forth novel concepts, and a peculiar technical style. "Best part is, they have the right attitude and know what to do. Take the Bangladeshi Hoichoi platform that produces
excellent television shows and films. This gives us the opportunity to be proud of ourselves and gives Bangladeshi cinema a critical boost at this crucial juncture."
Faria, whose single, SVF Music's 'Bujhina Toh Tai' with Mumzy Stranger was released on Eid says she has high expectations from the single. For someone who has already released several singles with SVF -'Pataka', 'Ami Chai Thakte' and 'Habibi', she adds, "It is a significant role, and as a producer, I like the way they have approached it from my perspective. I have given my best to the latest song and set the bar high." Someone who frequently works in Kolkata and not just Indo-Bangla productions, Faria says she has a busy year ahead with upcoming films like 'Abar Bibaho Obhijaan' and 'Patalghor'.Not really missing formal education in acting, for Faria, personal experiences go a long way in acquainting oneself with the craft. "The best education is encountered on the path of self-learning. I may not be the best, but I am improving, and learning every day from my co-stars, directors and instincts," she concludes.
GEETA KAPUR TO 'IBD 3' CONTESTANT: YOU SHOWCASED MOST DIFFICULT THING WITH SUCH EASE
Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Ace choreographer Geeta Kapur said that she has never seen such a grace in any male dancer, the way she saw in 'India's Best Dancer Season 3' contestant Shivanshu Soni.
She, along with other judges, including Terence Lewis and Sonali Bendre, were left awestruck looking at his performance on the song 'Judaai' from Varun Dhawan's film 'Badlapur'.
Geeta said: "You showcased the most difficult thing with such ease. The newness you have brought on stage, your andaaz, and you r personality have come through and struck us right where we are at. Beautiful." Geeta also mentioned that she has never seen a m ale dancer perform with such grace.
Terence also appreciated the contestant and talked about Pandit Birju Maharaj, who could say a lot without saying anything with his expressions and dance moves and praised Shiv anshu for this trait which is similar to that of Pandit Birju Maharaj. Left with no words to praise the contestant, Sonali shared that: "This performance, I can't say anything beyond it. I can only bow down to it. Thank you, thank you."
'SINGHAM AGAIN' SHIFTS ITS RELEASE DATE TO INDEPENDENCE DAY 2024
MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn's upcoming film 'Singham Again' has shifted its release to an early date. The film, third instalment of the 'Singham' franchise, was earlier supposed to release on Diwali 2024. But as per the new development, the film will now arrive in cinemas on August 15, 2024. The film will be directed by Rohit Shetty who has earlier helmed the two films from the franchise.
'Singham Again' will go to floors in August 2023.
Film trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared the update on his Twitter recently. He tweeted: "#Xclusiv... Ajay Devgn - Rohit Shetty: 'Singham Again' ON Independence Day 2024 - #SinghamAgain - the third part in #RohitShetty's super-successful #Singham franchise - to release on August 15, 2024 #IndependenceDay. #AjayDevgn returns as #BajiraoSingham... starts August 2023." The film will see Deepika Padukone in a cop avatar.
'Singham' was released in 2011, and starred Kajal Aggarwal and Prakash Raj in the lead roles, followed by 'Singham Returns' in 2014. Both projects were declared box office hits.
JOAQUIN PHOENIX WARNS FANS BEFORE WATCHING HIS FILM 'BEAU IS AFRAID'
LOS ANGELES, (IANS) 'Joker' star Joaquin Phoenix wants audience to watch his recently released film, 'Beau Is Afraid' but off a certain substance. The actor said that one should definitely not watch his movie, after taking magic mushrooms, reports 'Entertainment Weekly'. "I was told from someone in college that there was this college thread amongst friends, a challenge they were going to take mushrooms and go see this movie," the Joker star and Oscar winner said in an interview with Fandango. "And I just wanted to make a public service announcement and say do not take mushrooms and go see this f***ing movie." "But," Phoenix added, joking, "if you do it, film yourself. But don't do it!" As per 'Entertainment Weekly', the threehour 'Beau Is Afraid' does seem like the kind of film that might cause someone under the influence of hallucinogens to become unhinged. The third movie from Hereditary and Midsommar writer-director Ari Aster stars Phoenix as the titular character, a desperately anxious individual whose trip to visit his mother Mona, played by Broadway legend Patti LuPone, turns into a phantasmagorical quest full of violence and death.
22 Mid Week MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 BOLLYWOOD
JENNIFER ANISTON, ADAM SANDLER BOND OVER THEIR 'WEIRD SENSE OF HUMOUR'
DANIEL CRAIG, DAUGHTER ARE 'BONDING' OVER 'STAR WARS,' SAYS WIFE RACHEL WEISZ
LOS ANGELES, (IANS) Actress Rachel Weisz's husband Daniel Craig and their four-year-old daughter Grace are big 'Star Wars' fans. While promoting her new series Dead Ringers, the actress, 53, shared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Friday that her 4-year-old daughter got a little too "obsessed" with the popular sci-fi movie series after watching it with her father, reports people.com.
"It was like a father-daughter bonding experience, and they started on the original ones," Weisz told host Stephen Colbert.
"I'm not that deep into it, but my daughter got obsessed. She kept saying, 'Google this. Google this: What does Darth Vader look like under his mask?'" "She wants to know everything," she added. "She's obsessed with the mythology and these characters are so real for her." Weisz said Grace's fascination with the movies was getting a little "too intense," so her father stepped in to tell her that Star Wars "is broken." "We were in London when this happened," Weisz said. "(Grace) said, 'Dad says Star Wars is broken.' So they can't watch it anymore. And we just got to New York and she said, 'Is Star Wars broken in New York too?'"
"And so I said, 'Yeah, yeah it's broken," Weisz joked.
The actress said that so far, Grace had seen the first three original films in the Star Wars trilogy and Craig has shown her some clips from the later movies.
Colbert then turned to questioning Weisz about the film series, as she didn't know the first movie was originally called Star Wars and couldn't recall whether she watched the series or not.
"How many Star Wars movies have there been?" Colbert asked, to which she incorrectly responded, "12."
Colbert teased that this is the "part of the movie where we find out [Weisz is] the alien," before asking her a few more pop questions about the movie.
"What is the thing they're trying to destroy in the movie?," he asked, warning the audience "don't tell her."
"Darth Vader?" Weisz also mistakenly answered.
She finally got an answer right when he asked her what the "spiritual thing" they use is called, and she answered with "the Force," to which Colbert responded, "Thank you! On to the next round!"
MANOJ BAJPAYEE ANNOUNCES DIRECT-TO-DIGITAL PREMIERE OF 'BANDAA' ON HIS B'DAY
MUMBAI, (IANS) Natio nal Award winning actor Manoj Bajpayee, who is celebrating his birthday on Sunday, has announced that he will next be seen in the film 'Bandaa' which is said to be inspired by true events.
The film is a courtroom drama which will take the direct-to-digital route, and will see Manoj essaying the role of an eminent lawyer who single-handedly fought against all odds for the truth and justice. Talking about the film, director Apoorv Singh Karki said: "'Bandaa' has everything in it - a hard-hitting story, a calm and assertive actor like Manoj Bajpayee and a solid supporting cast."
The film will soon be available to stream on OTT platform ZEE5. Talking about the same, Manoj Bajpayee said: "It gives me immense joy to announce my third collaboration with ZEE5 for Bandaa. After our successful partnership with Silence...Can You Hear it? and Dial 100, we are now bringing a captivating story to life that deserves all the attention, and I can't wait for you to join us on this incredible adventure."
A Zee Studios and Bhanushali Studios Limited presentation, Suparn S. Varma's courtroom drama directed by Apoorv Singh Karki, 'Bandaa' is produced by Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Asif Sheikh and Vishal Gurnani and co-produced by Juhi Parekh Mehta.
KATRINA KAIF SPARKS PREGNANCY RUMOURS AGAIN AFTER VIRAL VIDEO FROM EID PARTY
Katrina Kaif attended Salman Khan's sister Arpita Khan's Eid party on Saturday night and all eyes were on her. The actress looked beautiful in an off-white anarkali by celebrity designer Tarun Tahiliani. She kept her look elegant and minimalistic with earrings and nude makeup. While Katrina Kaif looked gorgeous, what really stole the limelight was how she was covering her belly again and again with her dupatta. As soon as the video went viral, netizens speculated that she is pregnant.
Katrina Kaif has been rumoured to be pregnant many times after her public appearances in the past. On Saturday night, when the actress arrived to pose for the paparazzi at the Eid party, her gestures with her dupatta again sparked pregnancy rumours. Reacting to the video, a fan said, "She looks beautiful and like herself. I hate to be that person but she might be pregnant indeed… seems to be making a conscious effort to be draping her front" Another commented, "Is she pregnant?
Like I don’t see her at the gym anymore and she looks like she gained some weight plus…she isn’t shooting any movie ATM" Katrina Kaif's sister Isabelle Kaif also accompanied the actress to the party. Isabella looked gorgeous in a white Sharara outfit as she posed for the paps.
KISI KA
BHAI KISI KI JAAN BOX OFFICE COLLECTION DAY 3: SALMAN KHAN STARRER
MAINTAINS GRIP, GOES HOUSEFULL
According to the most recent trends of "Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan," Salman Khan's fans appear to have lavished the actor with a ffection on the occasion of Eid. On Sunday, the movie's box office receipts significantly increased.
According to trade analyist Taran Adarsh, "Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan" made Rs 26.61 crore on Day 3, an increase of 75%. The movie had a weak Friday debut, but it managed to see a significant rise on Saturday, and Sunday's numbers are also anticipated to increase. On day two, the Mumbai circuit saw a boost for "Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan," adding almost Rs 7 crore to the overall take.
Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan Box Office Report
The opening day box office total for Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan in India was Rs 15.81 crore, which was Khan's second-lowest open ing.
Considering his box office successes like Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Kick, and others, KBKJ underperformed at the box office. Day 2's b usiness, however, made up for it. On day 3, Salman Khan starrer saw a big jump and took its first weekend earning to Rs 68.17 crore. Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan had an overall 28.56% Hindi Occupancy on Sunday, April 23, 2023.
About Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan
The Farhad Samji directorial, which hit the theatres ahead of Eid, is Salman's first big screen release in a leading role in four years. A Salman Khan Film (SKF) production, Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan also features Venkatesh Daggubati, Pooja Hegde, Jagapathi Babu, Bhumika Chawla, Vijender Singh.
LOS
The Hollywood co-stars are friends since their early twenties and starred alongside each in three films, including their latest 'Murder Mystery 2', and the former 'Friends' star said that having the "same weird sense of humour" is why they get along so well, reports aceshowbiz.com.
"It comes from us just being us, I think. We have been friends for more than 30 years. We met at Jerry's Deli on Ventura Boulevard when we were 20 and 22 and we have been friends ever since," she said to Best UK magazine.
"This is the third movie we have got to do together, and Adam is always a joy to work with, as well as being one of my absolute favourite people in the world. We make each other laugh. We have the same weird sense of humour. That's always a good thing." She added: "I am so happy we got to work together, and that we got to do it all again on this movie."
Jennifer recently admitted Adam calls her out on her dating choices. The 54-year-old actress - who was previously married to Brad Pitt and Justin Theroux - revealed that Adam, 56, has been known to question some of her romantic decisions over the years. Appearing on 'The Tonight Show', she told host Jimmy Fallon: "If I get anything from him, it's 'What are you doing?'
Usually based on someone I'm dating."
It's not all one-sided though as the sitcom legend pointed out that she is more than happy to help him out too. She added: "I very much love to take care of him. He's so concerned with taking care of everybody else, which he really does, and he doesn't take care of himself."
Pausing for a moment, she continued: "I'm sorry to call you out on national television, Adam, but you have to know this. And I have a little arsenal of herbs in my trailer, and I make him smoothies when I can and give him all sorts of Chinese herbs when he's exhausted. I'm like the mobile pharmacy. I'm the set medic." Aniston admitted Sandler's wife Jackie Sandler tells her that him taking her advice lasts "about a minute."
SHAWN MENDES SPOTTED PICKING UP FLOWERS BEFORE DATE NIGHT WITH CAMILA CABELLO
LOS ANGELES, (IANS) Singer Shawn Mendes showered Camila Cabello with literal flowers amid speculation of their reconciled romance following their Coachella reunion.
Mendes was seen picking up flowers ahead of his meetup with Camila. He was photographed carrying a bouquet of white and purple flowers into his SUV in Los Angeles, reports aceshowbiz.com.
The 24-year-old heartthrob appeared to be in a great mood, smiling as he returned to his parked vehicle while pushing a trolley loaded with a bundle of firewood and some grocery bags. He then loaded all the items he purchased at a store into his car. Shawn went low-key during the grocery run, wearing a white T-shirt, black pants and white sneakers. Just several minutes later, Camila was pictured visiting Shawn's house in West Hollywood. She appeared to be trying to go incognito as she sported an orange tracksuit with the hood over her head while entering his house about 30 minutes after he picked up the flowers. Shawn and Camila sparked reconciliation rumours following their PDA at Coachella last week. On April 14, they were caught kissing and dancing together while attending the music festival in Indio, California. Seemingly confirming that they're back together, the pair were spotted holding hands while strolling the street in Santa Monica, near a bank of restaurants, on Wednesday night, April 19. Their outing was captured on a video taken by a fan and shared on Instagram. "My friends and I were walking down Santa Monica Blvd. just after 8 p.m. on Wednesday night when I looked up from my phone and saw Shawn and Camila walking toward us holding hands," the eyewitness told Page Six.
Mid Week 23 MIDWEEK NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 NEWS WEEKLY TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 BOLLYWOOD
ANGELES, (IANS) Hollywood star Jennifer Aniston has declared that Adam Sandler is one of her "absolute favourite people in the world."
HOLLYWOOD
STARRING: SALMAN KHAN, POOJA HEGDE, VENKATESH DAGGUBATI, RAGHAV JUYAL, SHEHNAAZ GILL DIRECTOR: FARHAD SAMJI RATING: 2.5/5
KISI KA BHAI KISI KI JAAN: SALMAN KHAN FILM IS OUT-AND-OUT POPCORN ENTERTAINER
Multiple introduction scenes in slow motion. Bizarre dialogues. Gravity and logic defying action sequences. Some bit of old school romance. Elaborate and colourful song and dance sequences that may nudge you to get grooving. Some amusing yet memorable hook steps. A shirtless superstar with washboard abs that can drive an entire auditorium scream with joy. This is the formulaic template of every Salman Khan film. And Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, as expected, is no different. What will instantly grab your attention is his entry sequence. Salman enters the 70 mm screen flying that will remind you of Race 3 (2018). He flies down to the ground amid truckloads of hooting and whistling, and the next thing you know, he flashes his signature smirk and starts beating up the bad guys. Only this time, he sports long tresses. And it’s much better than his Undertaker-inspired hairstyle in Saawan The Love Season (2006). Forget anything else, you won’t be able to get over Salman’s blow dried, bouncy, voluminous and envious hair. The balayage highlights really pop every time he has his
back facing the camera. Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan has all the elements that every Bollywood films made in the 1990s stood for, unapologetically. It is packed with oodles of drama, romance, comedy, action and music. What it also boasts of is the story of four orphans and how brotherhood stemming from choice eventually took precedence over blood relat ions. Nostalgia rides high in this film. It features the inimitable actor, late Satish Kaushik, doing what he does best. He’s funny, warm and avuncular. You cannot help but stop thinking about Tere Naam (2003) as the film also brings together Salman and Bhumika Chawla twenty whole years later. But what stays back with you are flashbacks from Maine Pyar Kiya (1989). Late singer SP Balasubrahmanyam’s voice coupled with the iconic music of Mere Rang Mein Rangne Wali playing in the background as Salman and Bhagyashree come together after 33 long years is a treat to the sore eyes. This is perhaps the best thing about Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan along with a much anticipated cameo by Ram Charan that left the audience euphoric.
HOW KARTIK AARYAN FULFILLED KAPIL SHARMA'S DAUGHTER ANAYRA'S WISH
MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood star Kartik Aaryan, who was recently seen in 'Shehzada', has got a fan in a three-year-old kid, and the child is the daughter of comedian-actor Kapil Sharma. Recently, during an episode of 'The Kapil Sharma Show', the host Kapil shared that his daughter Anayra is a big fan of Kartik, and how she once demanded to meet the superstar. Kapil further shared that his daughter was keen to meet Kartik, and then the actor fulfilled her wish by talking with her on a video call. He said: "One day, my daughter saw Kartik's dance video and she asked me 'Papa, Kartik is dancing, why isn't he coming to our place?' I told her he is busy. Then I texted Kartik to once make her talk to him as she kept demanding. I video-called Kartik and they spoke. Now, she has more demands like this." On the work front, Kartik has films in the pipeline like 'Satyaprem Ki Katha', 'Aashiqui 3', and director Kabir Khan's untitled next.
WHEN SRK INVITED MODEL
NAVPREET KAUR TO MANNAT AND BAKED A PIZZA FOR HER
MUMBAI, (IANS) Shah Rukh Khan and his family opened the gates to his home Mannat for a model named Navpreet Kaur and she was treated royally. The Bollywood superstar even baked a pizza for her. Navpreet took to Instagram, where she shared a slew of pictures, which also included a selfie with the superstar and an a utograph by his youngest son AbRam Khan. She called it her "oh so blessed day of my life at #Mannat." She wrote: "I promised myself I'll never post it, but this memory is too precious to j ust keep it to myself. The king @iamsrk himself baked a pizza, and that too veg because 'kuch punjabi veg bhi hote hain'." "All the while I was at his house, I thought I was dreaming and someone was soon going to wake me up. I kept my calm and composure because I didn't want to freak out in front of him. When the excitement of sitting at the dining table with him, his family and Pooja was bubbling up, I excused myself and asked for the way to the washroom." Pooja Dadlani, SRK's manager, was also present on the ocassion.
JIMMY SHERGILL TO PLAY A GREY CHARACTER IN CRIME THRILLER 'AAZAM'
STARRING: TANYA MANIKTALA, SHANTANU MAHESHWARI, ADIL HUSSAIN, SASWATA CHATTERJEE
DIRECTOR: PRATIM DAS GUPTA
RATING: 3.5/5
