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US again targets India over high taxes: ‘150% tariff on American alcohol, 100% on agri-products’
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With less than a month until US President Donald Trump’s April 2 deadline for imposing reciprocal tariffs on India, the White House on Tuesday criticised New Delhi for its tariffs on American alcohol and agricultural products. Addressing reporters, Press Secretary Katherine Leavitt said Indian tariffs on US goods were “not helping” the trade situation. Leavitt pointed to high tariffs across multiple countries, saying: “I have a handy dandy chart here that shows not just Canada but the rate of tariffs across the board. If you look at Canada, American cheese and butter nearly 300 per cent tariff. You look at India, 150 per cent tariff on American alcohol. Do you think that’s helping Kentucky bourbon be exported into India? I don’t think
a chart displaying tariffs imposed by
Trump: US Officials in Russia for Ukraine Ceasefire Talks
Washington:
US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that negotiators were headed to Russia "right now" for talks on a possible ceasefire with Ukraine, after Kyiv agreed to a 30-day truce.
Trump did not give further details on the negotiating team.
"People are going to Russia right now as we speak. And hopefully we can get a ceasefire from Russia," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office during a meeting with Ireland's prime minister. "And if we do, I think that would be 80 percent of the way to getting this
"People are going to Russia right now as we speak. And hopefully we can get a ceasefire from Russia," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office during a meeting with Ireland's prime minister.
horrible bloodbath finished."
Vice President JD Vance, who was also in the meeting, added that there were "conversations that are happening on the phone and in person with some of our representatives over the next couple of days."
Trump would not say when he would next speak to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, but added that "I hope he's going to have a ceasefire" and that there had been "positive messages" from Moscow.
"It's up to Russia now," said Trump. Trump was coy about pressuring Moscow to agree to a truce, saying he could slap it with "devastating" sanctions but adding that "I hope that's not going to be necessary."
so. 100 per cent tariff on agricultural products from India… Japan, tariffing rice, 700 per cent.”
Leavitt held up a chart displaying tariffs imposed by India, Canada, and Japan, with two circles in India’s tri-colour highlighting the tariffs New Delhi imposes.
She added that Trump believes in reciprocity, stating: “It is about time that we have a President who actually looks out for the interests of American businesses and workers.”
Besides India, Leavitt also accused Canada of unfair trade practices, stating: “The President has been responding to Canada ripping off the US and hardworking Americans for decades. If you look at the rates of tariffs that the Canadians have been imposing on American people and our workers here, it is egregious.”
India's Jio and Airtel ink deals to bring in Musk's Starlink
India's largest telecoms company Reliance Jio and its rival Bharti Airtel have signed separate deals with Elon Musk's SpaceX to bring the Starlink internet service to the country.
The move has caught most analysts by surprise, as Musk has publicly clashed with both companies recently.
It comes as Indian and US officials discuss a trade deal. US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose retaliatory tariffs on 2 April.
The agreements, touted to expand satellite internet coverage across India, are still conditional upon SpaceX
obtaining the Indian government's approval to begin operations.
Starlink had 4.6 million subscribers across the world, as of 2024.
SpaceX has been aiming to launch services in India since 2021, but regulatory hurdles have delayed its arrival.
Both Jio and Airtel say they will leverage their mobile network along with Starlink to deliver broadband services to communities and businesses across the country, including in rural and remote regions.
Jio will offer Starlink equipment in its retail outlets and online stores along with providing installation support for the devices, while Airtel says it is exploring the same.
Airtel also says the tie-up, along with an existing deal with Starlink rival Eutelsat OneWeb, would help to expand its connectivity.Many had not anticipated Starlink's simultaneous deals with Jio Platforms and Airtel.
An operation to rescue hundreds of people taken hostage when a train was hijacked by a separatist militant group in remote south-west Pakistan is over and all 33 militants present at the scene have been eliminated, the Army spokesman announced according to news agency PTI. Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry in a television broadcast added that twenty-one hostages and four paramilitary soldiers were killed by militants from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), who attacked the Jaffar Express, blowing up a railway line.
“The armed forces successfully concluded the operation in the (Wednesday) evening by killing all terrorists and rescuing all passengers safely,” Lt Gen Chaudhry said. The hijacking occurred on Tuesday afternoon as the train
with nine bogies travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, passed through a tunnel between the Paneer and Peshi railway stations in Balochistan’s rugged mountains. At least 100 of those on the train were members of the security forces, officials have said.
The Mashkaf Tunnel is located around 157km from Quetta. The BLA had claimed that large numbers of those it is holding are military or police personnel, but the regional government said that the hostages are mostly civilians.
Radio Pakistan earlier reported that the attackers were in contact with facilitators in Afghanistan and had positioned suicide bombers close to hostages.
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Press Secretary Katherine Leavitt held up
India, Canada, and Japan, with two circles in India’s tri-colour highlighting the tariffs New Delhi imposes.
Mystery Deepens Around Indian-Origin Student’s Disappearance Drowned or Kidnapped?
A20-year-old Indian-origin pre-med student from the University of Pittsburgh, has taken a troubling turn as conflicting accounts and growing suspicions of foul play deepen the mystery. Sudiksha, a resident of South Riding, Virginia, vanished early Thursday morning during a vacation with friends at the Riu Republica Resort in Punta Cana. As the search enters its fourth day, her family is pleading for answers and urging authorities to consider all possibilities, including kidnapping.
Last Seen with Conflicting Accounts:
Surveillance footage shows Sudiksha and her group of five friends partying at a resort disco until 3 am before heading to the beach. By 5:50 am, her friends reportedly left her alone with *Joshua Steven Ribe*, a 24-year-old tourist from Iowa, who has become the last known person to see her alive. Ribe, who admitted to passing out drunk on the beach, has provided investigators with multiple versions of events:
- In one account, he claimed he left the water after vomiting from rough waves and asked Sudiksha if she was okay.
- In another, he said he last saw her in knee-deep water before blacking out.
- A third version stated he saw her walking along the shore before he fell asleep.
Despite these inconsistencies, Ribe has not been named a suspect and is
Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old pre-med student, vanishes from Dominican Republic beach; family suspects foul play as search enters fourth day
cooperating with the investigation.
Delayed Reporting Raises Questions:
Sudiksha’s friends did not report her missing until nearly 12 hours later, around 4 pm, after she failed to return to her room. This delay has raised questions about the timeline of events and the actions of those who were with her that night.
Search Efforts Intensify
Dominican authorities have launched a large-scale search operation, deploying helicopters, drones, boats, scuba divers, and ATVs to scour the coastline and surrounding areas. Sudiksha’s clothes were found on a beach chaise lounge, leading authorities to believe she may have drowned after entering the ocean in a brown bikini. However, her family is skeptical of this theory.
Family Suspects Foul Play
Sudiksha’s father, Subbarayudu Konanki, has formally requested an expanded investigation, suspecting foul play or even abduction. "It's been four days, and if she was in the water, she would likely have been washed ashore. She's not found, so we're asking them to investigate multiple options, like kidnapping or abduction," he told WTOP-TV.
The family also pointed out that Sudiksha’s phone and wallet were left with her friends, something highly unusual as she always carried her phone. "If she's not in the water, they couldn't find her in the resorts, they couldn't find her in the hospitals— then where is she?" questioned family friend *Ramprakash Krishnamanaidu*.
International Collaboration:
The Dominican National Police are interrogating multiple individuals, including Sudiksha’s friends and other resort guests, while reviewing surveillance footage from nearby resorts. The FBI, DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, and University of Pittsburgh police are assisting in the case, with the Indian Embassy in the Dominican Republic overseeing diplomatic efforts.
A Family’s Desperate Plea:
As the search intensifies, Sudiksha’s family remains desperate for answers. "She is a bright and caring girl who had so many dreams. We just want her back. Please, if anyone has any information, come forward," said her mother.
Canada To Announce $20 Billion In Retaliatory Tariffs Against US
As prior exemptions, Donald Trump increased tariffs on steel and aluminum imports took effect on Wednesday.
Canada will announce C$29.8 bln in retaliatory tariffs on the United States on Wednesday in response to US President Donald Trump's steel and aluminum tariffs, a Canadian official said. The official declined to be named. Trump's increased tariffs on steel and aluminum imports took effect on Wednesday as prior exemptions, duty free quotas and product exclusions expired, and as his campaign to reorder global trade norms in favor of the US gains momentum.
Canada is the biggest foreign supplier of steel and aluminum to the United States. The escalation of the U.S.-Canada trade war occurred as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau prepared to hand over power this week to his successor Mark Carney, who won the leadership race of the ruling Liberals on Sunday. On Monday, Carney said he could not speak with Trump until he was sworn in as prime minister. Trump again on social media said he wanted Canada "to become our cherished Fifty First State."
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Ukraine ready to accept 30-day ceasefire with Russia
Ukraine has said it is ready to accept an immediate 30-day ceasefire with Russia proposed by the US, after a day of US-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he would present the offer to Russia and that "the ball is in their court".
Ukraine's President Volodomyr Zelensky said it was now up to the US to convince Russia to agree to the "positive" proposal.
Tuesday's talks in Jeddah were the first official meeting between the two countries since the extraordinary clash between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office.
Air India Flight to NY Departs After Mumbai Bomb Hoax
A New York-bound Air India flight, which had returned to Mumbai following a bomb threat, left for its destination on Tuesday morning, an official said.
The flight took off with all 303 passengers, but with a fresh set of operating crew due to the FDTL (Flight Duty Time Limitation) issue, an Air India spokesperson said.
Gavaskar Rejects 2025 Champions Trophy Bias Claims
Gavaskar dismissed India's venue advantage critics, noting ICC's pre-tournament decision. He questioned why England, despite hosting multiple times, won no ICC trophies before 2019.
The legendary cricketer went on to praise skipper Rohit Sharma and pointed out that the well-balanced team was the main reason behind India's triumph.
BJP Leaders' Holi Advice to Muslims Sparks Outrage
UP CM Adityanath endorsed the proposal to celebrate Holi until 2 pm before Friday prayers, stating that namaz can be postponed and suggesting that Muslims can pray at home if needed
Remarks targeting Muslims ahead of Holi celebrations by BJP leaders have sparked a controversy, with Opposition leaders condemning the statements as divisive and inflammatory. Uttar Pradesh labour and employment minister Raghuraj Singh on Tuesday advised those not wishing to take part to wear a “tarpaulin hijab”, while Bihar BJP MLA Haribhushan Thakur Bachaul suggested Muslims “stay indoors” if they opposed being smeared with colours.These remarks have led the Opposition to lash out at the BJP leaders. Speaking at an event in Aligarh, the UP minister said: “Anyone who wants to avoid colours during Holi should cover
themselves with a tarpaulin, just like Muslim women wear hijabs. Men should also do the same to protect their caps and clothes. If they can’t do this, they should stay at home.” Singh threatened that those
Dozens Freed, Hundreds Still Held in Pakistan Train Hijack
Mach:
Pakistani troops freed dozens of train passengers taken hostage by armed militants in the country's southwest on Tuesday, with hundreds more still being held in the deadly siege.
Security sources said that heavy gunfire was ongoing between security forces and the militants.
Gunmen forced the train to a halt in a remote, mountainous area of Balochistan province on Tuesday afternoon, with the assault immediately claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group behind rising
Security sources said that heavy gunfire was ongoing between security forces and the militants.
violence in the province which borders Afghanistan and Iran.
"Security forces have successfully freed 80 hostages, including 43 men, 26 women, and 11 children, from the terrorists," security sources told AFP, adding that 13 militants had been killed. "Efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe release of the remaining passengers. The terrorists have been surrounded, and the operation will continue until the last terrorist is neutralized."
A nearby railway station in Mach has been turned into a makeshift hospital to receive some of the wounded.
The driver of the train, a police officer and soldier were all killed in the assault, according to paramedic Nazim Farooq and railway official Muhammad Aslam, both at Mach railway station.
attempting to disrupt Holi festivities will face the consequences.
“There are three places for such people— they either go to jail, leave the state, or prepare to meet Yamaraj (the God of death),” he declared. Singh emphasised that Holi would be celebrated “at all costs,” calling it a matter of faith.
BSP president Mayawati said it is necessary to ensure equal respect for the followers of every religion. “As is known, Ramzan is going on and the festival of Holi is due. Considering that the government in UP, and in all other states, should convert the occasion into one of brotherhood. Then it will be in the interest of everyone,” Mayawati said.
US Markets Plunge, $4 Trillion Lost Since Peak
York,
after a selloff in
triggered by US President Donald Trump on Monday refusing to rule out the suggestion that his tariffs could trigger a recession in the world's biggest economy. US bond yields also dropped as investor worries about the potential economic slowdown were exacerbated by Trump's remarks saying the US economy was in a "period of transition", amid his fluctuating trade policies on Mexico, Canada, and China, which could dampen consumer demand and corporate investment.
Trump Plans 50% Tariff on Canadian Steel, Aluminum
Washington: President Donald Trump on Tuesday doubled his planned tariffs on all imports of steel and aluminum products from Canada to 50%, in response to the province of Ontario's decision to place a 25% tariff on its electricity exports to the US
Donald Trump said in a post on his Truth Social media platform that he has instructed his commerce secretary to add an additional 25% tariff on the metals products that will go into effect on Wednesday morning.
"Also, Canada must immediately
drop their Anti-American Farmer Tariff of 250% to 390% on various US dairy products, which has long been considered outrageous. I will shortly be declaring a National Emergency on Electricity within the threatened area," Donald Trump wrote. He also threatened to "substantially
increase" tariffs on cars coming into the US on April 2 "if other egregious, long time Tariffs are not likewise dropped by Canada."
In a post on X sent after Trump's latest threat, Ontario Premier Doug Ford - whose government is hiking the price on the electricity it generates for portions of New York state, Michigan and Minnesota - said he would not back down until all of Donald Trump's tariffs on Canadian imports to the US were "gone for good."
Broader 25% levies on all steel and aluminum imported to the US from anywhere are due to take effect early on Wednesday.
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New
US: Share markets across the globe witnessed sharp losses
America,
Stocks slide as Trump warns of US economy 'transition'
A sell-off in the US stock market gathered steam on Monday, fuelled by rising concern about the cost of the trade war to the world's largest economy.
The S&P 500, which tracks the biggest American companies, fell about 2% in early trade, while the Dow Jones dropped 0.9% and the Nasdaq sank more than 3.5%.
The falls came after President Donald Trump ducked questions about whether the US economy was facing a recession or price rises as a result of tariff moves, while warning instead of a "period of transition".
largest economy.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, however, insisted there would be no contraction in the US, although he acknowledged that the price of some goods may rise.
Investors fear that tariffs - which are taxes on goods applied as they enter the country - will lead to higher prices and ultimately dent growth in the world's
India, EU Resume FTA Talks to Counter Trump Tariffs
India and the EU are gearing up for a pivotal round of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations in Brussels on Monday, with both sides scrambling to minimise the fallout from Donald Trump’s aggressive push for tariff cuts. India’s traditionally protected economy is now facing what could be its biggest trade shake-up in modern history, driven by mounting US pressure. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have vowed to conclude the FTA by year’s end, emphasising the EU’s role as a crucial economic counterweight to Washington’s demands.
European negotiators are urging India to lower tariffs on dairy products, wine, and automobiles. European winemakers want India’s hefty 150 per cent tariff on imported wines reduced to 30-40 per cent, while automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz are lobbying for fully built-up (CBU) vehicle duties to be slashed from 100-125 per cent to 10-20 per cent.
Meanwhile, Trump’s demands threaten to force a radical overhaul of India’s trade policy. The US President has repeatedly slammed India’s tariffs as "massive" and "unfair." Last week, Trump claimed India had "agreed" to slash its duties, suggesting that New Delhi had caved to Washington’s demands.
"The level of tariffs that Trump is imposing, I think no doubt, will have to cause inflation somewhere down the line," Rachel Winter, investment manager at Killik & Co, told the Today programme.
Economist Mohamed El-Erian said investors had been optimistic about Trump's plans for de-regulation and lower taxes, while under-estimating the likelihood of a trade war.
He said the recent falls in the stock
market, which started last week, reflect the adjustment of those bets.
"It's a complete change in what the market expected," he said, noting that investors are also responding to signs that businesses and households are starting to hold off on spending amid the uncertainty, which could hurt economic growth. Tesla shares fell about 8% on Monday, while tech stocks Nvidia and Meta were both down more than 4%.
Speaking to Fox News in an interview broadcast on Sunday but recorded on Thursday, Trump appeared to acknowledge the concerns, responding to a question about whether the US was facing recession: "I hate to predict things like that. There is a period of transition because what we're doing is very big. We're bringing wealth back to America. That's a big thing."
North Korean Hackers Cash
Out Millions from ByBit $1.5B Hack
Hackers thought to be working for the North Korean regime have successfully converted at least $300m (£232m) of their record-breaking $1.5bn crypto heist to unrecoverable funds.
The criminals, known as Lazarus Group, swiped the huge haul of digital tokens in a hack on crypto exchange ByBit two weeks ago.
Since then, it's been a cat-and-mouse game to track and block the hackers from successfully converting the crypto into usable cash.
Experts say the infamous hacking team is working nearly 24 hours a day - potentially funnelling the money into the regime's military development.
"Every minute matters for the hackers who are trying to confuse the money trail and they are extremely sophisticated in what they're doing," says Dr Tom Robinson, co-founder of crypto investigators Elliptic. Out of all the criminal actors involved in crypto currency, North Korea is the best at laundering crypto, Dr Robinson says.
The ‘Anti-Trump’ Economist Who Could Push the UK to Pick a Side
Mark Carney's elevation to the top job in Canada is of particular significance at this moment when his country is at the frontline of a North American trade war. He becomes the "anti-Trump" on the US president's doorstep. The former Bank of England governor chose to lean strongly into resisting Donald Trump's policies at his acceptance speech. He said the US president had brought "dark days" from "a country we can no longer trust" and that he was "proud" of Canadians resisting the US "with their wallets". While on trade specifically Mr Carney vowed to keep the retaliatory tariffs "until Americans show us respect", it was clear that the general threats against Canadian sovereignty are equally as important in his thinking.
Boots Sold to US Firm
The US owner of the Boots pharmacy chain is being taken over by a private equity firm in a $10bn (£7.8bn) deal.
"I imagine they have an entire room of people doing this using automated tools and years of experience. We can also see from their activity that they only take a few hours break each day, possibly working in shifts to get the crypto turned into cash."
Elliptic's analysis tallies with ByBit, which says that 20% of the funds have now "gone dark", meaning it is unlikely to ever be recovered.
The US and allies accuse the North Koreans of carrying out dozens of hacks in recent years to fund the regime's military and nuclear development.
On 21 February the criminals hacked one of ByBit's suppliers to secretly alter the digital wallet address that 401,000 Ethereum crypto coins were being sent to.
ByBit thought it was transferring the funds to its own digital wallet, but instead sent it all to the hackers.
Ben Zhou, the CEO of ByBit, assured customers that none of their funds had been taken. The firm has since replenished the stolen coins with loans from investors, but is, in Zhou's words, "waging war on Lazarus".
The price being paid for Walgreens Boots Alliance is a fraction of what the company was worth a decade ago, reflecting its struggles with growing debt and shoppers going online for cheaper products.
There have been reports that the Boots chain could be sold off separately by its new owner, US private equity firm Sycamore Partners.
Walgreens chief executive Tim Wentworth said the firm was navigating the "challenges of a rapidly evolving pharmacy industry and an increasingly complex and competitive retail landscape".
"While we are making progress against our ambitious turnaround strategy, meaningful value creation will take time, focus and change that is better managed as a private company," he added.George Godber, fund manager at Polar Capital, told the BBC's Today programme that Boots had been "in and out of different ownership for some time" and that "its business model has struggled". "People are buying more of those personal healthcare brands online than they are in the shop."
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Flight from Hell: 10 Hours on Air India Flight 126 with No Working Toilets!
Once back in Chicago, there was no clear information. We were handed apology letters with some phone numbers, but no one told us about the hotels they would provide. That led to further confusion,"
Zofeen Maqsood
Nikesh Thapaliya, a North Chicago resident and non-profit worker assisting asylees in the Chicago area, spoke to Hi India after his return to Nepal via Qatar Airways. He had rebooked his flight after what he described as a traumatic experience aboard an Air India (AI) flight.
The ordeal began just 90 minutes into the flight. Thapaliya recounted, "The toilets started clogging, and the staff put up 'do not use' signs. A staff member explained that the toilet system was already faulty, so it wasn't a case of passengers misusing the facilities." He added, "They must have known about the issue, but didn't anticipate it causing such disruption."
As the flight continued, things worsened.
"Five hours into the flight, the captain suddenly announced we were returning to Chicago due to the issues, apologizing for the inconvenience,"
Thapaliya said. "Two hours in, they stopped all beverage service. The captain announced it, but the flight attendants still did their best to serve coffee and water to calm the anxious passengers."
By the end of the flight, only two toilets remained operational at the rear of the aircraft.
Thapaliya noted, "I used those toilets, and they were functioning fine.
The passengers were well-behaved, most were frequent fliers, and the staff remained patient." However, the communication breakdown was another frustration. "Once back in Chicago, there was no clear information. We were handed apology letters with some phone numbers, but no one told us about the hotels they would provide. That led to further confusion," he explained. It wasn’t until passengers reached baggage claim that they learned hotels were arranged.
Passengers onboard the flight recall the how the harrowing bathroom breakdown on a recent Air India flight left travelers high and dry
Thapaliya made sure to contact AI before rebooking, ensuring he would receive a full refund. He confirmed that his refund was processed on March 11. He also shared the emotional strain on passengers: "There were some passengers with urgent personal matters, including one whose father’s last rites in India had to be completed on time. Despite everything, the passengers and flight attendants helped each other, making the situation more bearable."
Thapaliya, however, remains critical of Air India's overall performance. "Initially, they cited an 'undisclosed technical reason' for the diversion. They even shut down the map feature on the working screens. There were also broken trays, which could be a safety hazard. Honestly, I'm surprised Air India is still allowed in U.S. airspace."
lavatories had clogged, and only five out of 11 were operational at the time. The decision was made to return to Chicago, which left many passengers frustrated, especially those like myself who had connecting flights from Delhi."
Ayub, who was scheduled to fly to Patna after reaching Delhi, missed his connection due to the diversion. The situation worsened as the crew failed to provide updates, leaving passengers anxious.
“Many passengers, urged the crew to land at the nearest airport rather than fly all the way back to Chicago. But they insisted on returning, which added another five hours to the ordeal."
Two passengers onboard AI 126 from Chicago to Delhi share with Hi India the ordeal of being stuck mid-air with nowhere to go
Chicago Physician says lack of communication, and chaotic handling made for a very unpleasant journey
Arish Ayub and his wife were traveling from Chicago to Delhi when, midway through the flight, the pilot announced that the aircraft would be diverted back to Chicago International Airport. Ayub recalled, "The cabin crew seemed just as confused as the passengers. I asked one of the flight attendants for more information, but she didn’t have any. When I spoke to the crew supervisor, he explained that the
The flight eventually landed in Chicago at 9:30 PM, but the disorganization continued. Passengers were handed photocopies of a generic apology letter and instructed to contact customer service for rebooking. He informs, “Many passengers, particularly the elderly, were visibly distressed. Some didn’t have phones, which added to the confusion. My family was worried, constantly checking my flight status online."
Ayub called Air India’s customer service, but after being placed on hold for nearly 40 minutes, he was informed of the situation and rebooked for a flight the next day. However, other passengers faced even more challenges. "Some had to fly to New York or San Francisco to catch alternate flights to Delhi, while others had to wait several days to be rebooked."
After securing his new flight, Ayub asked about hotel and food arrangements. He was initially told there was no information available. It wasn’t until around 1 AM that he learned a hotel had been arranged for passengers. But the process was far from smooth. "There was only one small bus for nearly a hundred people, and getting a seat was a struggle. It was cold outside, and we waited by baggage claim for almost two hours before finally boarding. When we arrived at the hotel, the chaos continued. I stood in line for an hour to get my room key, and by the time I reached my room, it was already 2:30 AM. We were told to be ready by 7 AM for our 11 AM flight. While breakfast was provided, the rush to secure seats on the bus caused additional stress for passengers. "The entire experience was extremely disorganized and stressful.”
Ayub also highlighted the medical emergencies that arose during the flight. "A fellow passenger, sitting a few seats ahead of me, suffered a panic attack. She was traveling alone with her young child and was understandably very stressed. Fortunately, I had medication with me and was able to help her," he said.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Elon Musk: X Hit by Cyberattack, NationState Suspected
Elon Musk said X (formerly Twitter) was hit by a massive cyberattack on Monday, suggesting that a large, coordinated group or even a nation-state could be behind it. The attack led to three outages throughout the day, each lasting nearly an hour.
"There was (still is) a massive cyberattack against X. We get attacked every day, but this was done with a lot of resources. Either a large, coordinated group and/or a country is involved. Tracing...,"
Elon Musk posted on X. According to Downdetector, the platform faced three outages throughout the day, with interruptions peaking around 3:00 pm with nearly 2,200 reports from Indian users, surging again at 7:30 pm with 1,500 reports, and continuing later around 9:00 pm as users faced further access issues.
Elon Musk acquired X in 2022 for $44 billion. In 2023, he became the first person to reach 200 million followers on X.
Air India Flight Turns Back Due to Clogged Toilets
Passengers on Air India flight AI126 from Chicago to Delhi endured a bizarre 10-hour journey to nowhere when the flight had to turn back due to clogged toilets. The incident occurred on March 5, when, near Greenland, eight out of 12 lavatories became blocked and unusable.
Air India issued a statement confirming the air return due to a technical issue. Upon landing, passengers were accommodated, and alternative arrangements were made. An investigation revealed that polythene bags, rags, and clothes had been flushed, causing the plumbing failure.
Videos from onboard show chaos and confusion as discomfort grew among passengers. The airline confirmed that about 1 hour and 45 minutes into the flight, lavatories in both Business and Economy Class became unserviceable, prompting the decision to return. The incident highlights the impact of improper waste disposal on flight operations.
PM Heads to Mauritius as National Day Chief Guest
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for Mauritius late Monday night on a two-day State visit. He will attend the National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest on March 12.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the visit is towards strengthening "India-Mauritus enduring ties."
"Strengthening India-Mauritus enduring ties! PM @narendramodi has embarked
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the visit is towards strengthening "India-Mauritus enduring ties."
on a 2-day State visit to Port Louis, Mauritius. PM will participate as the Chief Guest at Mauritius' National Day Celebrations & also meet Mauritian leadership & dignitaries," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated in a post on X. In his departure statement on Monday, PM Modi said that he looks forward to the opportunity to engage with the Mauritius leadership during his visit to elevate bilateral partnership and strengthen friendship for security and development in the Indian Ocean Region. He called Mauritius a "close maritime neighbour, key partner in the Indian Ocean and a gateway to the African continent."
US Intel Chief Tulsi Gabbard to Visit India on Indo-Pacific Tour
Washington: US Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard, announced on Monday (local time) that she has embarked on a multi-nation trip to the Indo-Pacific region, during which she will visit Japan, Thailand and India. Gabbard stated that her first stop was in Honolulu. She called "building strong relationships, understanding, and open lines of communication" vital to achieving US President Donald Trump's objectives of peace, freedom, and prosperity.
Wasim Akram Settles India-Pakistan Debate After Champions Trophy
A huge point of discussion during the Champions Trophy 2025 has been whether Team India got an advantage due to playing all of their games in Dubai. India played all their games at a neutral venue after they did not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, and several experts stated that it was an unfair advantage given to them. However, Pakistan legend Wasim Akram has stated that it would not have
Indian Student Shot Multiple times in Memphis, Tennessee
An Indian student, Mohan Sai Pothugunta,was shot multiple times while sitting in his car. The incident happened in East Memphis, Tennessee on Thursday. The student is currently critical in the hospital. According to reports, Mohan was sitting in his friend’s car outside an apartment building in East Memphis around 11.30 pm on Thursday. As per the police, a gunman approached him at this time. Two shots went through the front passenger window, hitting Mohan in his shoulder and upper arm. Mohan tried to bravel fight his situation and drove the car near a gas station and called 911. First responders arrived and rushed him to the hospital where he is in critical condition, media reports said. His sister Sujana Peram has organized a Gofundme. “Police said there was no word yet on a possible suspect. More details are awaited.
made a difference even if India had travelled to Pakistan for the tournament.
"This Indian team would have won it anywhere in the world," Akram said, speaking in the Dressing Room show on the Sports Central channel. "Yes, there were a lot of talks once it was decided that India would play all of their matches in Dubai. But had they played in Pakistan, they would have won there as well," Akram stated.
Govt: Ganga Water Safe for Bathing During Mahakumbh
The central government on Monday cited a new report from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in Parliament and said the water in the Ganga at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj was fit for bathing during the recently concluded Maha Kumbh. Triveni Sangam is where the Ganga meets the Yamuna and Saraswati rivers. The government also said it had provided a total of Rs 7,421 crore to the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) for cleaning the river in 202223, 2023-24 and 2024-25 (until March 9). However, in a new report submitted to the tribunal on February 28, the CPCB said statistical analysis showed that the water quality during the Maha Kumbh was fit for bathing.
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"Exceptional Game, Exceptional Result": PM Modi
"An exceptional game and an exceptional result! Proud of our cricket team for bringing home the ICC Champions Trophy. They've played wonderfully through the tournament. Congratulations to our team for the splendid all around display," PM Modi posted on X, moments after the big win.
"India Zeals The Deal": Gautam Adani
Gautam Adani took to social media platform X, lauding the performance of the Men in Blue as they defeated New Zealand by four wickets in a thrilling finale at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. In his tweet, he wrote, “Dominant. Relentless. Brilliant. Triumphant. India Zeals the Deal!”
Mark Carney
Chosen as Canada's PM
Ottawa, Canada:
Canada's Liberal Party overwhelmingly elected Mark Carney as the country's next prime minister Sunday and the former central banker lost no time in taking a defiant stance against threats from US President Donald Trump.
Carney, 59, won 85.9 percent of the ballots cast in the Liberal Party leadership vote, according to the final tally.
Carney will take over from outgoing party leader Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over the coming days, but he may not have the job for long.
Canada must hold elections by October but Carney could well call a snap poll within weeks. Current polls put the opposition Conservatives as slight favourites.
India Triumphs: Unbeaten Champions!
least one match-influencing
of the tournament
India clinched a thrilling four-wicket win over New Zealand in the final of Champions Trophy 2025 to clinch the marquee ICC event for a record-breaking third time. Chasing 252 against the Blackcaps, India reached home in 49 overs at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India were the jointwinners of Champions Trophy in 2002 before clinching the title again in 2013. Now, they have ended the tournament with the trophy once again in 2025.
"I am not going to retire from this format. Just to make sure no rumours are spread moving forward. Koi future plan hai nahi, jo chal raha hai chalega (there is no future plan, whatever is going on will continue as it is)," Rohit Sharma said. "There is a lot of hunger even in guys who have played a lot of cricket and it rubs down on even the younger players. We have five to six players who are real stalwarts. It makes the job easier for all of us."
Trump Denies Recession Fears Amid Trade War
US President Donald Trump has refused to rule out a recession as his trade policies continue to fuel economic uncertainty. Speaking on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, he defended his tariff strategy but admitted the economy was in a “transition” phase.
“What We’re Doing Is Very Big” When asked about the possibility of a recession, Trump avoided a direct answer, saying, “I hate to predict things like that.” Instead, he described the US economy as undergoing a shift, stating, “There is a period of transition because what we’re doing is very big. We’re bringing wealth back to America.”
His remarks follow a warning
Trump’s comments come after the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta warned that the US economy could contract in the first quarter, heightening fears of a downturn.
from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta that the US economy could contract in the first quarter. However, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick dismissed recession fears, telling NBC’s Meet the Press, “Absolutely not. There’s going to be no recession in America.”
“You Have to Do What’s Right” Trump’s trade war has led to steep tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, causing market volatility. When asked if tariffs would drive inflation, he did not directly address the concern but insisted on the necessity of his policies, saying, “You have to do what’s right.”
As economic uncertainty grows, Trump's comments reflect his administration’s stance that shortterm instability is a necessary step for long-term economic gains.
The United States has been placed on the Civicus Monitor Watchlist due to a rapid decline in civic freedoms, according to the international civil rights organisation, Civicus. The latest watchlist, released on Monday, includes the US alongside the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Italy, Pakistan, and Serbia. The Civicus Monitor tracks civic freedoms in 198 countries and updates its watchlist when it sees worrying trends. Mandeep Tiwana, co-secretary general of Civicus, explained that the list highlights nations where “civic space conditions are worsening, particularly regarding freedoms of peaceful assembly, association, and expression”, according to a report by The Guardian.
Rohit Sharma Breaks Silence On Retirement : Champions Trophy: It was a tournament wherein every one in the final eleven produced at
performance over the course
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US: India Must Open Agriculture Sector
United States’ Secretary of Commerce
Howard Lutnick on Friday said that the Indian agriculture sector must open up for US products but indicated that the US would be open to accepting quotas and limits where there are sensitivities.
Speaking at the India Today Conclave, Lutnick said that the US is interested in a broad-based trade deal where “everything”, including agriculture, is on the table and that the US is keen on a “macro, large-scale, broad-based trade agreement with India that takes everything into account”.
Pranav Venkatesh Wins World Junior Chess Title
AFTER D Gukesh, India has another 18-year-old world champion on the 64 squares. Grandmaster Pranav Venkatesh became the World Junior Chess Champion 2025 in the open section in Petrovac, Montenegro, on Friday. The teenager from Chennai left behind a field of 157 players — including 12 grandmasters — from 63 countries in the open section to claim the trophy.
Lalit Modi Surrenders Indian Passport, Gets Vanuatu Citizenship
New Delhi: Indian Premier League (IPL) founder Lalit Modi has filed an application with the Indian high commission in London to surrender his Indian passport. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed this on Friday.
Modi is known to have acquired citizenship of Vanuatu, a South Pacific Island nation. He left India in 2010 and is learnt to have been living in London.
US Lawyer Exposes Jaipur Hotel, Cab Scam
US Lawyer Exposes Jaipur Hotel Scam: "Loud Pounding At My Door"
An American lawyer, Andrew Hammel, recently shared a shocking experience in Jaipur that has gone viral. Hammel, a Germany-based writer and lawyer, revealed how a cab driver and a hotel manager tried to scam him out of Rs 3,000, using intimidation tactics that lasted nearly an hour.
The ordeal began after Hammel took a cab back to his Jaipur hotel. Moments later, there was a knock at his door. To his surprise, the cab driver had returned—this time with the hotel manager—demanding cash.
The driver claimed Hammel had shortchanged him, while the manager backed the claim without hearing Hammel's side.
Things escalated when the hotel manager insisted the driver had mistakenly given Hammel Rs 3,000 extra in change, demanding it
Mr Hammel recounted that the hotel manager falsely claimed the cab driver had mistakenly given him Rs 3,000 extra in change, demanding that he return the amount.
back. When Hammel refused, the duo resorted to aggressive persistence, pounding on his door for 45 minutes in a clear attempt to intimidate him. Realizing the situation was spiraling, Hammel took a smart approach— turning to an unlikely savior: a barely legible international complaint hotline printed on a worn-out laminated sheet in his room. He immediately called the number, putting the manager and
Mark Carney Hints at IndiaCanada Diplomatic Shift
Ottawa: Mark Carney, the new leader of Canada's ruling Liberal Party and soon-to-be Prime Minister, aims to "rebuild" strained India-Canada ties that deteriorated under Justin Trudeau. The 59-year-old former central banker also plans to diversify Ottawa's trade relations with New Delhi. Carney secured a landslide victory in the Liberal Party leadership race with 85.9% of votes. Before his election, he addressed the impact of US tariffs on Canada, stating, "What Canada will be looking to do is to diversify our trading relationships with like-minded countries, and there are opportunities to rebuild the relationship with India." Highlighting his commitment, Carney emphasized the need for shared values in trade and expressed his intent to strengthen economic ties if elected Prime Minister. His background as the former head of the Bank of
Canada and the Bank of England, along with his tenure at Brookfield Asset Management—an investor in India's realty, renewable energy, and infrastructure sectors—positions him well for fostering economic collaboration. Efforts to mend ties will likely be welcomed by India, particularly amid US President Donald Trump's tariff threats. Given Canada's popularity among Indian migrants, New Delhi may also seek to address visa restrictions with Carney’s leadership. India-Canada relations hit a low in 2023 after Trudeau accused India of involvement in Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing, claims New Delhi denied. Diplomatic expulsions and trade agreement suspensions followed, further straining relations.
driver on edge.
“I was saved by American corporate culture. There was a barely legible international complaint hotline on the torn laminated instruction sheet on the table. I invited the manager and cabbie in and called the hotline in front of them,” Hammel recalled. Even while he was filing the complaint, the hotel manager continued demanding the Rs 3,000. The tension peaked when the manager threatened to call the police. But Hammel knew how to turn the tables—he started repeating words like “police,” “crime,” “arrest,” “harassment,” and “fraud” during his complaint call. That was the breaking point. Only then did the hotel manager and the cab driver finally back down, realizing their bluff had failed. Hammel’s quick thinking and refusal to be intimidated saved him from what could have been a costly scam. His story serves as a cautionary tale for travelers—always stay alert and know your rights!
130 Dead in Syria as Forces Clash
At least 130 people were killed and dozens wounded in overnight clashes between the new authorities in Syria and gunmen loyal to the ousted dictator Bashar alAssad, a war monitor said, in the bloodiest skirmishes since the collapse of the Assad government.
The fighting unfolded in Latakia and Tartous provinces, longtime strongholds for Assad along Syria’s Mediterranean coast. It came hours after the killing of 16 security personnel by Assad loyalists in the Latakia countryside on Thursday afternoon, the deadliest attack yet on Syria’s new security forces.
Thousands of protesters flooded streets in the cities of Latakia and Tartous to demand that government forces stand down and withdraw from the countryside, the first wide-scale demonstrations against the new authorities since they assumed power in December.The government deployed more security forces to the coast late on Thursday night to restore order. On Friday morning, government convoys were patrolling the roads of both cities, and residents were told to stay home as security forces conducted “combing operations” aimed at armed remnants of the Assad regime, according to state media.
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IIFA: Changes shaping film stories
India Agrees to Cut Tariffs, Finally Facing Exposure: Trump
Trump said India imposes massive tariffs, making trade difficult, but is now cutting them after being exposed
As part of its Silver Jubilee celebrations, IIFA honored women's contributions to cinema in a special way. On this occasion, a special event titled "The Journey of Women in Cinema" was held, featuring Bollywood legend Madhuri Dixit and Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga. Madhuri Dixit shared insights from her 39-year career, emphasizing how female characters have evolved over time, becoming stronger and more central to narratives. She noted that women are no longer confined to supporting roles but are now at the heart of stories. Guneet Monga discussed her struggles in the film industry, her journey to winning an Oscar, and the importance of female leadership. She highlighted the increasing participation of women in Indian cinema, calling it a hopeful shift for the future. The discussion covered changing roles, challenges, and the growing impact of women in the industry. Both speakers shared personal experiences, inspiring the next generation.
"Committed to Promoting Women's Contributions"
IIFA Vice President Noreen Khan stated, "As IIFA completes 25 years, we remain committed to promoting women's contributions in cinema and beyond. ‘The Journey of Women in Cinema’ is not just a discussion but a movement. By sharing stories of courage, creativity, and leadership, we celebrate successful women while inspiring future generations. IIFA will continue to foster change through such platforms, ensuring every voice is heard and empowering women collectively." This grand event took place on March 7, 2025, at Hyatt Regency, Jaipur, celebrating the strength and impact of women in Indian cinema.
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US President Donald Trump said Friday that India has “agreed” to “cut their tariffs way down”.
Speaking at the Oval Office, Trump said, “India charges us massive tariffs, massive you can’t even sell anything in India. It’s almost… it is restrictive. You know, we do very little business inside. They have agreed, by the way. They want to cut their tariffs way down now because somebody’s finally exposing them for what they have done.”
Trump’s remarks came hours after
India said it is looking at deepening trade ties with the US including by reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers under a bilateral trade agreement. In his latest statement, the US President, while addressing a joint session of the Congress, mentioned India alongside the European Union, China and Canada for charging higher tariffs on American products.
Trump said other countries have used tariffs against the US for decades, and now it’s “our turn” to start using them against those nations.
Beijing Urges China-India Partnership, Calls for 'Dragon-Elephant' Tango
Beijing renewed its call for a "dragonelephant tango" on Friday, emphasizing that a China-India partnership is the “only right choice.” This comes as US President Donald Trump’s policies reshape global geopolitics. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressed the need for cooperation, stating, “China and India should be partners that contribute to each other’s success.” He reiterated that as the largest developing nations, both should support rather than undermine each other. The call for stronger ties has been a Chinese refrain, particularly after the
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2020 Galwan Valley clash. However, recent diplomatic engagements between the two nations signal a thaw. Wang emphasized that the border dispute should
not overshadow broader cooperation. Without naming any country, Wang urged China and India to lead the Global South against “hegemonism and power politics.” He asserted that their
Musk, Rubio Clash Over Staff Cuts in Trump Cabinet Meeting: Report
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Washington:
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and billionaire White House adviser Elon Musk clashed on Thursday during a Cabinet meeting, as President Donald Trump watched, over the level of staff cuts that Rubio has carried out, the New York Times reported.
The drama unfolded at a meeting
where Trump told his Cabinet heads that they, not Musk, have the final say on staffing and policy at their agencies, Reuters reported on Thursday. The Times said Musk, assigned by Trump to eliminate large parts of the federal bureaucracy, accused Rubio of having fired "nobody" and resisting Musk's push for large staff reductions. Rubio pushed back, saying 1,500 State Department employees had taken early retirement buyouts, the Times said. It said Rubio asked sarcastically whether Musk wanted him to rehire all those people just so he could make a show of firing them again.
unity could enhance global democracy. Notably, he avoided mentioning the Quad, a group including India, the US, Japan, and Australia, which China sees as a strategic challenge. Separately, Wang criticized Washington’s “arbitrary tariffs,” warning that no nation can suppress China while maintaining good relations. This came after the US imposed new duties on China, Canada, and Mexico over fentanyl smuggling allegations, further escalating tensions.
Beijing vowed to retaliate, reinforcing the ongoing trade war that has intensified since Trump’s return to office in January.
Trump Denies Musk-Rubio Clash
According to The New York Times, Elon Musk clashed with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a White House meeting.
US President Donald Trump denied on Friday a report that his senior advisor, billionaire Elon Musk, had clashed with Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a White House meeting. According to The New York Times, Musk argued with Rubio and separately with transportation secretary Sean Duffy during a cabinet meeting chaired by Trump on Thursday.
Musk is leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in a drive to slash costs and cut jobs across government departments, reportedly leading to tensions with department heads.
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Madhuri Dixit at
At IIFA's Silver Jubilee in Jaipur, The Journey of Women in Cinema featured Madhuri Dixit and Oscarwinner Guneet Monga, hosted by Noreen Khan.
Best Performance in a Leading Role (Female)
Nitanshi Goel (Laapataa Ladies)
Best Performance in Supporting Role (Female)
Janki Bodiwala (Shaitaan)
Best Performance in Supporting Role (Male)
Ravi Kishan (Laapataa Ladies)
IIFA 2025
Shah Rukh Khan steals the show while ‘Laapataa Ladies’ sweeps multiple awards
The much-anticipated 2025 International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) made its homecoming in a grand fashion, returning to the beautiful city of Jaipur after years of memorable editions in Abu Dhabi. For the second time in India, the awards ceremony was a night to remember, showcasing some of the finest talent from the world of Indian cinema.
A Star-Studded Night in Jaipur
The star-studded night saw Shah Rukh Khan, the king of charisma, yet again capturing the audience's hearts with his impeccable wit and undeniable presence. After stealing the spotlight in the 2024 edition, SRK showed why he continues to be the reigning heartthrob, mesmerizing audiences with his infectious energy and timeless charm. This year’s event saw the actor’s performance as the undisputed highlight, as he enthralled fans with a series of iconic songs from his illustrious career.
Joining the stage was the dynamic duo of Karan Johar and Kartik Aaryan, who co-hosted the night, adding their unique flair to the show. The evening unfolded with a blend of delightful surprises, electrifying performances, and a few stunning wins that had the audience buzzing all night.
A Glorious Night for Laapataa Ladies
This year’s biggest winner was Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies, which clinched multiple awards. The film dominated the night, with accolades in Best Editing, Lyrics, Music Direction, Film, and Direction. The film’s success has undoubtedly made it one of the most celebrated titles in IIFA history, with Karan Johar humorously remarking that Laapataa Ladies may now hold the title of having won the most IIFA awards ever, though it still falls short of the alltime record held by Devdas (2002) and 3 Idiots (2009) with 16 awards each.
Kartik Aaryan’s stellar performance in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 earned him the coveted Best Performance in a Leading Role (Male) award, while Nitanshi Goel took home the Best Performance in a Leading Role (Female) for her brilliant
portrayal in Laapataa Ladies. The Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema award was presented to the legendary Rakesh Roshan, whose contribution to Indian cinema continues to be immense. A highlight of the evening was his mesmerizing dance performance alongside veteran actress Rekha, which left the audience in awe.
A Celebration of Cinema and Dance
The performances were nothing short of spectacular, and IIFA 2025 truly delivered. Kareena Kapoor Khan took the stage to pay a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Raj Kapoor, honoring his monumental impact on Indian cinema. Other memorable performances included Madhuri Dixit, Shahid Kapoor, and Kriti Sanon, each of whom captivated the audience with their electrifying routines.
But it was Shah Rukh Khan’s performance that stole the show. Beginning with a dazzling drone light tribute to the superstar, SRK had the crowd roaring as he belted out his yesteryear hits like Say Shava Shava and Tumhe Jo Maine Dekha. He also performed iconic tracks from Don and Chennai Express, as well as his recent smash hit Jawan. The performance reached its peak when SRK danced atop a train set, re-creating one of the most memorable sequences from Chaiyya Chaiyya, sending fans into a frenzy.
The Future of IIFA
IIFA 2025 proved once again why the awards are the most anticipated celebration of Indian cinema on the global stage. From its stunning location in Jaipur to the remarkable achievements of Indian filmmakers, actors, and artists, the event was a testament to the rich legacy of Indian cinema. The future of the IIFA Awards looks even brighter as it continues to honor the stars and stories that make Indian cinema truly extraordinary.
With the success of this year's edition, one can only imagine what the next IIFA will bring. But for now, Jaipur has certainly set the bar high.
Hemant Brahmbhatt
Best Performance in a Leading Role (Male)
Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema Rakesh Roshan
Directorial
Producers Wanted Free Songs, Then Vanished Nora Fatehi
Nora Fatehi said she doesn't find it fair that other actors get both lead parts and dance songs in movies, while she's allowed the latter.
Nora Fatehi started off as an actor over a decade ago, but soon became synonymous with ‘item songs’ in the film industry. Her recent return to acting with Crakk, Madgaon Express, and the upcoming film Be Happy has made the audience rediscover the actor in her. She claims she’s still open to doing dance numbers in movies, but not by compromising on her acting career.
In an interview with BBC Asian Network, she said, “I stopped being so sensitive. I stopped crying about things because I was a crier. I’d be hurt by a rejection, by doors not opening, by gossip people would say about me really, really hurt me. Suddenly, I realised, oh my god these things don’t matter because if you say no to me, if you don’t give me an opportunity, then I’ll make those opportunities myself. I have the resources. I can talk, I’m smart, I can sell myself. I don’t need anyone else to do that for me. I stopped relying on people. I stopped relying on agencies, producers, and directors. Some of them would come to me and say, ‘Hey, can you do a song for in a film of mine as a favour and we’d promise you a role in our next one,’ and they would never do that. You know how many directors have done that to me, and they disappeared. So now, I’ve stopped relying on them. I’ll do it if I want to. I
don’t want anything in return. And that’s how I’m rolling.” Nora added that she’s busy shuttling between Dubai and India for work.
“I don’t take breaks. I don’t even sleep. I don’t have a personal life. I don’t even eat. No, I’m not going anywhere. This is the spicy side of me. But I know what’s going on. They’re waiting for me to turn my back and go like, ‘Fill up that void!’ I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to do Bollywood, I’m going to do my international music. Leave it for the little kids? No way,” Nora added. She explained that she didn’t do any songs for a year because she was busy filming her last three movies.
“A lot of girls in the industry think I’m arrogant. But I’m not. I’m just real, and I’m confident. I know what I bring to the table. If I don’t know anything, I at least know how to do these songs. There’s a way of doing them. There’s a way to perform. There’s a presentation involved. There’s a way of executing the choreography of these songs. Trust me, they’re good. They do films too. And I have a lot of respect for some of them because they’re my seniors, right? They do films and kill as main leads. And then they come and so songs, and they’re allowed to do both. And when I do songs and I want to do main leads, they make it so difficult for me. So this is where my spiciness comes from. Because I know what it is. It’s not fair. So my logic is, okay cool, everyone should be allowed to films and songs because artists are multidimensional. But it should be fair for everybody,” Nora added. She said she appreciates the work that other women are doing in the industry, but detests her name being used as a marketing tool. She gets compared to every new ‘item girl’, and her detractors share posts with captions like, “They can use a 100 Noras for breakfast.” Nora said that she doesn’t like comparing herself to anyone. When she was out of action for three months because of an ankle injury, she saw some really good dance songs, but admitted that many of them were terrible.
Kartik Aaryan (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3)
Best
Debut Kunal Kemmu (Madgaon Express)
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India Must Beware New Zealand in Final
Spin bowling options, batting depth and athletic fielding mean the final is unlikely to be a cakewalk for Rohit Sharma & Co.
India will take on New Zealand in Sunday’s ICC Champions Trophy final, facing a side well-prepared for the conditions. Having already played India at the venue last week, the Kiwis have an advantage South Africa wouldn’t have had if they had qualified.
Spin Strength
New Zealand boasts a strong spin attack, led by Mitchell Santner and supported by Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra. Their variety in spin could pose a serious challenge, especially with the final being played on the same pitch used for India’s match against Pakistan.
Pace Threat
India struggled against New Zealand’s seamers in the group stage, as their tall pacers generated unexpected movement and bounce. Unlike other teams, the Kiwis have been able to exploit these conditions effectively. India must strategize well to counter this, as a solid start in the Powerplay is crucial.
Gun Fielding
New Zealand’s fielding is among the best in the tournament. Players like Glenn Phillips, Santner, and Will Young regularly save 30-40 runs and convert half-chances into wickets. Their ability to build pressure with tight fielding could trouble India.
Batting Depth
The Kiwis have a well-rounded batting lineup with Rachin, Young, and Kane Williamson leading the top order. While they faltered in the group stage, their middle-order strength, featuring Latham, Mitchell, and Phillips, makes them formidable against spin. India will need to be at their best to overcome a wellbalanced New Zealand side in the final.
H-1B Visa: US Push to Prioritize Americans & Impact on Indians
The Trump administration's push to challenge alleged illegal hiring preferences for foreign workers, particularly under the H-1B visa program, has raised concerns among immigrants. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is investigating these practices to protect American workers.
On February 19, 2025, EEOC Acting Chair Andrea Lucas warned businesses against prioritizing foreign workers over American candidates, citing widespread national origin discrimination. She emphasized that many employers unlawfully prefer visa holders or undocumented workers, violating federal employment laws. The EEOC aims to curb such practices, which it says contribute to immigration system abuse. The H-1B visa program allows US
Dr. Bhattacharya:
companies to hire foreign professionals in specialized fields like technology and healthcare. Critics argue it displaces American workers, with some employers allegedly favoring foreign employees due to lower costs and easier exploitation. A lawsuit against Meta Platforms claims the company systematically preferred visa holders over Americans to cut expenses.
Both the Trump and Biden administrations have tightened H-1B regulations, increasing scrutiny and wage adjustments. Experts warn that restricting the program could push global talent toward Canada or the UK, affecting US innovation and economic growth. Jidesh Kumar, managing partner at King Stubb & Kasiva, highlights that H-1B professionals drive technological advancements and entrepreneurship.
US Health Declining
Dr. Jay Bhattacharya told the Senate that US health is declining, citing rising obesity, diabetes, and chronic diseases. He highlighted stagnant life expectancy and post-pandemic decline, vowing to address the chronic disease crisis if appointed NIH chief. “American health is going backwards,” Bhattacharya told the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, citing rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and chronic illnesses.
US Court Rejects Rana's Extradition Stay
New Delhi:
The United States Supreme Court rejected an "emergency application" by 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana, which opposed his extradition to India claiming he will be tortured there as he is a Muslim of Pakistani origin. Rana, a Canadian national of
Trump Delays CanadaMexico Tariffs After Market Reaction
Donald Trump said Thursday that more tariffs would come on April 2, adding they will be "reciprocal in nature."
Washington:
US President Donald Trump on Thursday delayed some tariffs targeting Canada and Mexico -- leading Ottawa to halt an upcoming wave of countermeasures -- in moves that bring reprieve to companies and consumers after blowback on financial markets. Stock markets tumbled after Trump's duties of up to 25 percent took effect Tuesday, as economists warned that blanket levies could weigh on US growth and raise inflation.
But Trump signed orders Thursday to delay the fresh tariffs for Canadian and Mexican imports covered by a North American trade agreement, though he dismissed suggestions that his decisions were linked to market turmoil.
The halt -- which will last until April 2 -- offers relief to automakers.
Telangana student found dead in US with bullet wounds
Pakistani origin, had filed an "Emergency Application For Stay" with the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States and Circuit Justice for the Ninth Circuit.
In that petition, Rana argued that his extradition to India violates United States law and the United Nations Convention Against Torture "because there are substantial grounds for believing that, if extradited to India, petitioner will be in danger of being subjected to torture." "The likelihood of torture in this case is even higher though as petitioner faces acute risk as a Muslim of Pakistani origin charged in the Mumbai attacks," the application said.
An Indian student, 26, was allegedly found dead in the United States with bullet wounds, however, the cause of his death is not yet known, his family said on Wednesday, reported news agency PTI.
The student, G Praveen, hailed from Telangana and was pursuing his MS in Wisconsin’s Milwaukee. Praveen’s family was informed by the US authorities on Wednesday morning that his body has been found and that his friends say it was found with bullets, Praveen’s cousin Arun told PTI.
The family, a native of Ranga Reddy district near Hyderabad, is in a state of shock since they heard of Praveen’s death. They have approached local political leaders and MLAs for help.
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Dr. Jay Bhattacharya
US Education Dept to Cut 1,300 Jobs Amid Trump’s Plans
The education department earlier had around 4,100 employees but after Tuesday's layoffs, the agency will sit at roughly half of its total count.
In line with US President Donald Trump’s plan to dismantle the agency, the US Education Department has announced plans to lay off at least 1,300 employees as part of an effort to halve the department’s workforce.
Education department’s officials announced the lay offs on Tuesday which has raised questions about the continuation of the agency’s usual operations.
The education department earlier had around 4,100 employees but after Tuesday’s layoffs, the agency will sit at roughly half of its total count.
The Trump administration via the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) being led by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has been cutting the workforce in the government through buyout offers and the termination of probationary employees.
According to reports, thousands of jobs are expected to be slashed across the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Social Security Administration and other agencies as President Trump moves to reduce the footprint of the federal government as part of the dramatic downsizing by his administration.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon, who was chosen by Trump to lead the agency, said “Today’s reduction in force reflects the Department of Education’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers,” according to Associated Press.
McMahon, who was confirmed by the US Senate on March 3, had informed the employees of the Education department in a memo on the same day to brace for profound cuts in jobs.
Trump's Final Warning to Hamas: Free Hostages or Die
"This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance", Donlad Trump posted on his Truth Social.
Washington: US President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened further destruction of Gaza if all remaining hostages are not released, and issued an ultimatum to Hamas leaders to flee.
Strongly backing Israel as a ceasefire teeters, Trump said he was "sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job" as his administration expedites billions of dollars in weapons.
"Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead
bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you," he wrote on his Truth Social platform after meeting freed hostages. "This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance."
Trump also made clear there would be repercussions for Gaza as a whole, where virtually the entire population has been displaced by Israel's relentless military campaign in response to the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas.
Jaishankar: Kashmir Issue Ends with Return of Stolen Land
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Wednesday batted for the unification of Kashmir, saying that the conflict in the region is “mostly solved”, with New Delhi now waiting for Pakistan to “return the stolen part” of the territory.
During a session at the Chatham House think tank in London, Jaishankar responded to a question on steps taken by India to solve the Kashmir issue, and said that the abrogation of Article 370 was the first step in that direction.
Responding to the audience question, Jaishankar said, “Removing Article 370 was step number one, restoring growth and economic activity and social justice in Kashmir was step number two, and
US Diplomats Protest USAID Dismantling in Letter to Rubio
Hundreds of diplomats from the US State Department and US Agency for International Development have written a letter addressed to the Secretary of State Marco Rubio protesting against the structured dismantling of the USAID, and suggesting that the decline
of USAID could be a risk to national security and undermine the leadership position of the US.
The department’s internal “dissent channel” allows diplomats to express their reservations and raise concerns about policies anonymously and a cable is expected to be filed in the same regard. Diplomats suggest that dismantling of USAID risks creating a power vacuum which China, Russia could exploit and fill.
The administration ordered a freeze on almost all foreign aid via the USAID as soon as the US President Donald Trump took oath of office for a second time on January 20.
holding elections with a very high turnout was step number three.”
“I think the part we are waiting for is the return of the stolen part of Kashmir which is under illegal Pakistani occupation. When that is done, I assure you Kashmir will be solved,” the External Affairs Minister said.
During a session titled ‘India’s rise and role in the world’ at the Chatham House, Jaishankar touched on many issues such as US President Donald Trump’s new administration, the UKIndia free trade agreement and the relations between India and China.
Anurag Kashyap Leaves 'Toxic' Bollywood
New Delhi: Anurag Kashyap has officially confirmed that he has left Bollywood, which is solely driven by box office numbers and keeps little room for creative freedom in his recent interaction with The Hindu. The actor-director had talked about his frustration with the "toxic" industry last year, in a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India.
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Bawa Jain Honored by City of New York for Promoting Global Peace and Interfaith Dialogue
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NEW YORK, NY- The City of New York, under the leadership of Mayor Eric Adams, honored Bawa Jain with an official citation in recognition of his unwavering dedication to global peace, inter-religious dia-logue, and spiritual leadership.
Originally awarded during the Diwali celebrations in October 2024, unforeseen circumstances delayed the formal presentation. However, in a time of growing global challenges, this recognition holds even greater significance, underscoring the urgent need for unity and collective action.
Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan, a strong advocate for the South Asian community, emphasized the importance of this honor, stating, “Bawa Jain’s lifelong dedication to peace and interfaith harmony has had a profound impact not just in New York City, but globally. His leadership exemplifies the values of unity, diversity, and mutual respect that we strive to uphold.”
Presenting the citation on behalf of Mayor Eric Adams, Deputy Commissioner Chauhan highlighted the critical role of leadership in strengthening communities.
Accepting the honor, Bawa Jain
Official CBP Statement On Tariffs
WASHINGTON, DC
– U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has enacted five Presidential Executive Orders adjusting tariffs on imports from China, Hong Kong, Canada, and Mexico. These changes, implemented under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, introduce the following additional tariffs:
• 25% on goods from Mexico and Canada that do not meet U.S.Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) rules of origin.
• 10% on non-USMCA-compliant energy products from Canada.
• 10% on potash imports from Canada and Mexico outside USMCA preferences.
• 20% on goods from China and Hong Kong, increased from 10% as of March 4, 2025.
As of March 7, 2025, no additional tariffs will be applied to Canadian and Mexican imports that meet USMCA requirements. The USMCA preference rules, outlined in 19 CFR 182, remain unchanged. These tariff adjustments apply prospectively and will not be applied retroactively. CBP continues to update stakeholders through the Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS) in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). For the latest information, visit CBP CSMS Notices
Indian-Origin Student’s Mysterious Disappearance in the Dominican Republic
LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA- Authorities in the Dominican Republic and the U.S. are searching for 20-year-old Sudiksha Konanki, a Virginia woman who went missing in Punta Cana. The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office confirmed she was last seen around 4:50 a.m. on March 6 at the RIU Republica Resort beach. Konanki, 5 feet 4 inches tall with black hair and brown eyes, was wearing a brown two-piece bikini, large round earrings, a metal anklet, and multiple bracelets.
Officials were alerted Thursday evening and immediately engaged federal law enforcement, the State De-partment, and Dominican authorities. Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student and Indian citizen, was traveling with five other female students, at least two from Loudoun County.
The University of Pittsburgh stated it is in contact with Konanki’s family and authorities, offering full sup-port in efforts to locate her. The Indian Embassy in the Dominican Republic is leading the search alongside the U.S. State Department and local law enforcement. Dominican authorities have launched an extensive operation, involving Civil Defense, the Navy, National Police, firefighters, and Politur, the tourist police. The Orange Search and Rescue Unit has been searching since Saturday, deploying drones and helicopters over the beach near the resort. The search resumed early Sunday morning. Anyone with information is urged to contact Dominican au-thorities at +1 (829) 618-7635 or the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office at +1 (703) 777-1021.
Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan, a strong advocate for the South Asian community, emphasized the importance of this honor, stating, “Bawa Jain’s lifelong dedication to peace and interfaith harmony has had a profound impact not just in New York City, but globally.
reaffirmed the importance of interreligious collaboration and global dialogue in advancing peace.
“We have no room for the hate that is plaguing our society today,” said Bawa Jain. “In these challenging times, it is more essential than ever that we come together to build bridges of understanding and work towards a future founded on peace, respect, and shared humanity.”
This recognition underscores the transformative power of responsible leadership in overcoming divisive forces and driving positive change. As the world continues to evolve, Bawa Jain’s work stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring individuals and communities to strive for a future rooted in compassion, unity, and jus-tice.
FBI Denver Warns of Online File Converter Scam
DENVER – The FBI Denver Field Office warns of a growing scam involving free online document converters that install malware, leading to ransomware attacks and data theft. Victims are urged to report incidents.
“Awareness is the best defense,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek. “Report scams and take protective measures. We are actively pursuing these criminals.” Cybercriminals disguise malware in file conversion tools (e.g., .doc to .pdf, image merging, or MP3/MP4 downloads). Though functional, these downloads may contain hidden malware that grants access to victims’ systems, stealing:
• Personal data (SSNs, birth dates, phone numbers)
• Banking and cryptocurrency details
• Email addresses and passwords
• Victims often realize the infection only after data theft or a ransomware attack.
Protect Yourself:
• Be cautious before downloading files
• Keep antivirus software updated and scan files before opening.
• If scammed, contact banks, update passwords on a secure device, and report at www.ic3.gov. Consider professional malware removal.
NYC Deputy Dilip Chauhan Honors Interfaith Leader Bawa Jain with Mayor Citation
Sudiksha Konanki, 20, a University of Pittsburgh student was traveling with 5 other female students from Virginia
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Chicago Teen Uses Art to Support Children Battling Cancer
14 Year old Arsh Pal Turns Passion into Purpose, Supporting St. Jude’s with Every Brushstroke
CHICAGO, IL- A young artist from Chicago is using his passion for painting to make a difference in the lives of children fighting cancer. For the past seven years, 14-year-old Arsh Pal has sold his artwork to ben-efit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, donating $1,000 each year to support their vital work.
Arsh’s artistic journey began on his eighth birthday when he received a set of acrylic paints as a gift. What started as a simple pastime quickly turned into a deep passion, inspired by the beauty of nature and the vibrant murals of downtown Dubuque, Iowa, where he once lived. Eventually, his family moved to Chicago, but his love for painting only grew stronger.
A pivotal moment in Arsh’s journey came when he accompanied his mother, an occupational therapist, to work at a nursing home. There, he led residents in a painting session, witnessing firsthand how the simple act of creating art brought them joy.
Amazon Web Services Plans Massive $8.2 Billion Investment in Maharashtra
SEATTLE, WA – Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced an $8.2 billion investment in Maharashtra, India, as part of its global cloud expansion strategy. This initiative is expected to add $15.3 billion to India's GDP and generate over 81,300 fulltime jobs annually in the local data center supply chain by 2030.
This investment aligns with AWS's broader plan to invest $12.7 billion in India's cloud infrastructure by 2030, catering to the rising demand for cloud services. India's cloud market, valued at $8.3 billion in 2023, is projected to reach $24.2 billion by 2028, according to International Data Corporation.
AWS currently operates two data centers in India—one in Mumbai (2016) and another in Hyderabad (2022). In 2023, Amazon also pledged an additional $2 billion to expand its e-commerce operations in India, reinforcing its commitment to one of Asia's largest economies.
“We can all be learning the same simple thing, like a mountain or a cloud, and the activity makes us happy,” Arsh reflected. Seeing how art could uplift others, he felt a deep desire to use his talents to help those in need.
Since then, Arsh has dedicated himself to raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, selling his paintings to support children undergoing cancer treatment. This year, he set his sights even higher, determined to make a greater impact. With the help of his mother, who manages his social media and logistics, Arsh has taken virtual marketing seminars to learn how to ef-fectively promote and sell his artwork. “There’s a lot that goes into it,” he admitted. “It’s a lot of work.”
Despite the challenges, Arsh remains committed to his mission. “It can be really painful for them to go through all that treatment, and I know I’m helping them,” he said. “And it makes me feel good because I’m pretty much saving somebody’s life.”
Through his dedication and creativity, Arsh Pal is proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.
Trump's 'Wild Hair' Comment on Astronaut Sunita Williams Sparks
Social Media Reactions
Former President Donald Trump, in a meandering Oval Office address on March 6, commented on NASA astronaut Sunita Williams’s hair while discussing the prolonged mission of two astronauts stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Trump, 78, assured astronauts Williams and Butch Wilmore, “We’re coming up to get you,” while claim-ing—without evidence—that President Joe Biden had abandoned them in space. He also suggested he would personally lead a rescue mission.
The two astronauts, originally scheduled for an eight-day mission in June 2024, have remained aboard the ISS for over eight months due to technical failures with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. At one point, Trump shifted focus to a physical observation, remarking, “And I
see the woman with the wild hair—good, solid head of hair she’s got. There’s no kidding, there’s no games with her hair.” He did not mention Williams by name. Trump also stated, “I asked Elon, ‘Can you get them out?’ He said, ‘Yes.’ He’s preparing to go up, I think, in two weeks.”
Continuing his criticism of Biden, Trump called him “the most incompetent president in our history” and suggested the astronauts had been “left up there” under his administration’s watch. He then speculated about their time in space, adding, “I hope they like each other… maybe they’ll love each other.” This revision improves clarity, removes redundant phrasing, and maintains a professional tone while pre-serving the original details. Let me know if you'd like further refinements!
USAID staff told to shred and burn classified documents
Staff at the US Agency for International Development (USAID) have been told to shred and burn classified documents and personnel files.
The request raised alarm among employees and labour groups amid the ongoing dismantling of the agency.
Acting Executive Secretary Erica Y Carr sent an email that thanked staff for clearing out classified safes and personnel documents from a Washington DC office and told them to meet in the building's lobby for an all-day disposal event on Tuesday. "Shred as many documents first, and reserve the burn bags for when the shredder becomes available or needs a break," her email to staff read.
Typically, documents placed in burn bags for disposal are sealed and then taken to a secure site for incineration. The email asked staff not to overfill the burn bags and label them with the words "SECRET" and "USAID (B/IO)" - which stands for bureau, or independent office - using permanent markers.
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U.S. Charges ISIS-K Member Mohammad Sharifullah for Deadly Attacks
VIRGIINIA-On March 2, 2025, the United States charged Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as “Jafar,” with providing and conspiring to provide material support to ISIS-K, resulting in death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2339B. Sharifullah has been arrested and is scheduled to appear in the Eastern District of Virginia on March 5, 2025.
“This ISIS-K terrorist orchestrated the brutal murder of 13 heroic Marines,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Under President Trump’s leadership, the Justice Department will ensure terrorists like Sharifullah have no safe haven.”
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FBI Director Kash Patel stated, “The deadly attack that killed 13 American service members and Afghan civilians during the U.S. withdrawal was an act of terrorism. ISIS-K claimed responsibility, and thanks to the FBI, DOJ, and CIA, we have secured Sharifullah’s apprehension.”
On August 26, 2021, ISIS-K member Abdul Rahman al-Logari detonated a suicide bomb at Kabul’s Abbey Gate, killing 13 U.S. service members and approximately 160 civilians. During an FBI interview, Sharifullah admitted to scouting a route for the attacker and communicating that it was clear of security checkpoints. He also acknowledged his involvement in other ISIS-K attacks.
In 2016, he helped prepare a suicide bombing targeting the Canadian embassy in Kabul, which killed over ten guards. In 2024, he provided weapons training to gunmen responsible for the Moscow Crocus City Hall attack, which left 130 dead.
If convicted, Sharifullah faces life in prison. The case is prosecuted by the DOJ’s National Security Division and the Eastern District of Virginia.
BAPS Temple in Chino Hills, CA, Targeted in Vandalism Incident
CHINO HILLS, CA – The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, CA, was vandalized on March 8, raising concerns over rising anti-Hindu sentiment and hate crimes.
BAPS condemned the attack, stating, “In the face of another Mandir desecration, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate. We will never let hate take root.”
This marks the third attack on a BAPS temple. Last year, the BAPS Mandir in Sacramento was vandalized on September 25, days after another in New York was targeted. Authorities
are still investigating the Chino Hills incident. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) linked the attack to political tensions, citing the up-coming “Khalistan referendum” in LA. They warned that rising online hate often translates into real-world violence. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) also condemned the attack, urging law enforcement to act deci-sively and ensure the safety of places of worship.
ICIRR's Lawrence Benito: GOP Playing Games With Immigrant Lives
CHICAGO, IL- Statement from Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights Executive Director Lawrence Benito on the House Oversight Committee’s Hearing on Welcoming City Policies
“As Mayor Brandon Johnson and other mayors emphasized today, Welcoming City policies serve as a cru-cial safeguard against federal overreach. They uphold immigrants' constitutional right to due process and help keep our communities intact. Chicago’s Welcoming City Ordinance, strengthened by advocates over the past 40 years, is a proven, effective policy that empowers our neighbors and enhances public safety.
“Today’s hearing was nothing more than political theater orchestrated by MAGA-aligned Republicans in Congress to divert attention from their own unpopular policy agenda— one that includes cutting Medicaid and other essential federal programs to fund tax breaks for billionaires. ICIRR and our allies remain stead-fast in defending Chicago’s Welcoming City Ordinance and other policies that affirm the dignity of all Illi-nois residents. We will continue to resist efforts to intimidate and harm our families and communities.”
$1.9M Settlement Reached in Health Care Kickback Case
CHICAGO, IL- Gerald Congdon, M.D., of Pawleys Island, SC; Gbenga Aluko, M.D., of Charlotte, NC; and Anup Banerjee, M.D., of Gastonia, NC, along with their medical practices, as well as Curis Healthcare Inc. of Chicago, IL; Omar Hussain of South Miami, FL; and Saeed Medical Group Ltd., doing business as Alliance Immediate and Primary Care of Chicago, IL, agreed to pay $1,913,808 to resolve alleged False Claims Act violations related to laboratory kickback schemes. The parties agreed to cooperate with the Department of Justice's investigations of other participants in the schemes.
Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits financial incentives for medical referrals covered by Medicare, TRI-CARE, and
other federally funded programs to prevent compromised medical judgments. The settlements resolve allegations that providers received kickbacks for referring patients to a South Carolina laboratory, resulting in fraudulent Medicare and TRICARE claims.
Dr. Congdon and his medical practices, Coastal Urgent Care LLC and Coastal Wellness Center LLC, agreed to pay $400,000 for allegedly receiving improper payments disguised as office space rental and phleboto-my fees from May 2016 to November 2021. Dr. Aluko and Eagle Medical Center PC agreed to pay $250,000 for similar violations. Dr. Banerjee and Gastonia Medical Specialty
Clinic P.A. settled for $206,000 for receiving disguised payments. Omar Hussain and Curis Healthcare Inc. agreed to pay $817,808 for receiving commissions based on the volume and value of referrals. Saeed Medical Group, Hussain, and Curis Healthcare settled for $240,000 for allegedly receiving cash payments to refer testing services. Authorities emphasized the importance of integrity in health care, warning that kickback schemes com-promise patient care and undermine public trust. The settlements resulted from a coordinated effort in-volving the DOJ, FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS. These are allegations only, with no determination of liability.
ICIRR's Executive Director Lawrence Benito
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If convicted Mohammad Sharifullah, aka, Jaffar faces life in prison
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Suspects caught on surveillance video
A Tribute to Bhupendra Singh: The Soulful Voice That Lives On
CHICAGO, IL- The community mourns the loss of Bhupendra Singh, fondly known as the "Kishore Kumar of Chicago." A versatile singer, his soulful voice captivated audiences across romantic, philosophical, and classical melodies. He made history as the first Chicago-based singer to launch an album in Mumbai under Baba Sehgal’s direction. A "Celebration of Life" event was held on March 4, 2025, at DuPage Cremations and Funeral Chapel, where family, friends, and admirers gathered to honor his legacy.
Manav Ahuja, son of Singh’s close friend, shared an emotional tribute, remembering Bhupi Tauji as a man full of affection and laughter. Falasha Mahadevia, who called him Bhupi Uncle, cherished his warmth and generosity. Rajan Mahadevia, his friend of 26 years, struggled to hold back tears as he spoke of their en-during bond.
Cecil Joseph, CEO of IDF USA and a 46-year friend, recalled
Bhupi’s charisma and resilience. He honored his fighting spirit and extended condolences from college friends, ensuring their unwavering support for his family. Muzaffar Hussain, a family friend for over two decades, expressed gratitude for Singh’s kindness, stating, “I will love you forever, Bhupibhai.”
Close friends Ajay Bhatia and Noby George spoke of Singh’s ability to bring joy through music and warmth. Ritu Raj Ahuja highlighted his grand Punjabi spirit and unconditional love for family. His son, Devdeep, cherished his father’s positivity and influence, vowing to uphold his legacy. His daughter-in-law, Sneha, reminisced about their shared moments, while his son, Varun, honored him as a legendary father.
His wife, Sunita, thanked everyone, recalling his final words, "Take care of everyone." The event, guided by Ritu Ahuja as the Master of Ceremony, was a heartfelt tribute to a man whose melody will forever live on.
FIA Chicago: Empowering Women, Strengthening Community
IL - As the world prepares to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago stands as a beacon of empowerment, inclusivity, and cultural preser-vation. Under the visionary leadership of Founder & Chairman Sunil Shah and his dedicated team, FIA Chi-cago has emerged as the largest and most influential Asian community organization in the Midwest, tri-pling in size over the past two years.
Behind every great leader is unwavering support, and for Sunil Shah, that strength has been Mrs. Rita Sunil Shah. Her steadfast belief and encouragement— always saying, "I am 1000% with you, go ahead and achieve success!"—have been the foundation of FIA’s remarkable journey.
Sunil Shah & Team’s Building the Largest Asian Community Network
Marking a historic milestone, FIA Chicago has witnessed an unprecedented rise in female leadership. In just one year, female membership surged from 49 to 123—a 151% increase, redefining inclusivity. Under the leadership of Vinita Gulbani (Past President), Pratibha Jairath (Immediate Past President), and Anu Malhotra (Current President), FIA has fostered an environment where women are not just contributors but
equal changemakers. This transformation is powered by dynamic women leaders like Chandini Duvuri, Richa Chand, Falguni Sukhadia, Sonia Luther, Pinky Thakkar, Anita Beri, Prasuna Muddasani, Kamlesh Kapoor, Leela Patel, Digna Patel, Asha Oroskar, Sushma Bhanot, Priyanka Parekh, and Archana Agrawal, whose dedication continues to drive FIA’s mission forward.
Entering 2025 with 246 active members (123 men, 123 women) and uniting over 300,000 Asian Indians across the Midwest, FIA Chicago remains a pillar of support through grand cultural celebrations, civic en-gagement, and community service. Join the movement—because together, we are FIA Chicago, shaping history for generations to come!
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Announces New Feature in CBP Home Mobile App
WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has introduced a new feature—Intent to Depart—in its CBP Home mobile application. This feature provides
The CBP Home app offers travelers, businesses, and stakeholders a streamlined digital solution that en-hances security, simplifies CBP processes, and reduces administrative burdens— all from a mobile device.
unlawfully present individuals or those whose parole has been revoked with a structured, voluntary process to notify the U.S. government of their intent to leave the country. It is a key tool in compliance with Executive Order 14159: Protecting the American People Against Invasion.
The CBP Home app offers travelers, businesses, and stakeholders a streamlined digital solution that en-hances security, simplifies CBP processes, and reduces administrative burdens—all from a mobile device.
“The CBP Home app strengthens our mission to secure U.S. borders by ensuring lawful entry and supporting effective enforcement,” said Pete Flores, Acting Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection. “This new feature provides individuals with an accessible way to voluntarily depart, allowing them to do so before facing harsher consequences. It reinforces our commitment to enforcing U.S. laws and protecting national security.”
Additional CBP Home Features:
• I-94 Processing: Apply for and pay for an I-94 up to seven days before arrival in the U.S.
• Inspection Appointments: Request inspections for perishable cargo entering the U.S.
• Border Wait Times: Check real-time wait times at border crossings.
• Bus Manifest Submission: Submit manifests for bus operators.
The CBP Home app is free to download on Apple’s App Store and Google Play, as well as from the CBP website.
Rep. Ami Bera Among Democrats Voting to Censure Al Green Over Trump Speech Disruption
But truthfully, I would do it again.”
Aries
WASHINGTON, DC – In a rare intraparty rebuke, ten House Democrats joined Republicans in voting to censure Representative Al Green for disrupting former President Donald Trump’s congressional address. Among them was California Representative Ami Bera, a centrist navigating the controversy. Green, a Texas Democrat, interrupted Trump’s speech, shouting, “You have no mandate to cut Medicaid!” while waving his cane. Security swiftly removed him, making him the first lawmaker ejected during a presi-dential address. Defending his actions, Green stated, “I did it from my heart, and I will suffer whatever the consequences are.
His protest highlighted progressive concerns over Trump’s Medicaid cuts, yet also deepened divisions within the Democratic Party. Leadership had urged restraint, warning such demonstrations could be politically exploited.
Republicans responded swiftly. Representative Dan Newhouse introduced a censure resolution, which passed on February 6 by a 224–198 vote. While censure carries no formal penalty, it remains a serious condemnation.
Bera, known for his pragmatic approach, has not publicly commented on his vote. His stance may reflect broader tensions among moderate Democrats over how to counter Trump’s policies while maintaining party unity.
Rep. Brandon Gill Criticized for Linking Gujarati Event to Caste System
DALLAS, TX – Rep. Brandon Gill, a Republican congressman from Texas’s 26th District and a staunch Trump supporter, is facing backlash over an inflammatory tweet targeting an Indian American gathering in Dallas.
On March 1, tech analyst Dylan Patel tweeted a photo of 8,000 attendees at a Leuva Patidar Samaj volleyball tournament, representing a U.S. community of about 40,000, mostly business owners in the motel and gas station industries.
Gill responded: “America is the ‘land of opportunity’ precisely because we DON’T have a caste system. We cannot sustain America’s prosperity and liberty by importing foreign class allegiances.
Immigration without assimilation is national and cultural suicide.”
His remarks, framing the event as a threat to American values, were swiftly condemned. Hindu American Foundation co-founder Suhag Shukla tweeted, “The misuse of ‘caste’ and now your tweet are fomenting anti-Indian and anti-Hindu hate.” She challenged Gill’s rhetoric, asking if he would say the same about West Virginian or Mennonite farming families.
A former conservative student leader at Dartmouth, Gill echoes nationalist rhetoric on immigration and assimilation. The controversy highlights growing tensions over caste discourse in the U.S. and right-wing politicians’ relations with minority communities.
Ganesha says that the week is going to be mixed for the people of Aries. At the beginning of the week, your planned work will be completed on time. You will also get the desired success in your career and business, during this time due to busyness you will not be able to spare time for yourself or your family.
Taurus
Ganesha says that this week is going to be very auspicious for the people of Taurus. The week will start with auspicious work at home, in which you will get the support of your relatives. At the beginning of the week, you will spend money on things related to luxuries.
Gemini
Ganesha says that this week will prove to be a solution to all kinds of problems related to life for the people of Gemini. The special thing is that whether it is a career or business or any big wish related to life, you will see the full support of everyone at home and outside. Employed people can get a big opportunity at the beginning of the week.
Cancer
Ganesha says that the people of Cancer will have to leave laziness and manage time by working hard to achieve the desired success this week, otherwise the opportunity may slip away. At the beginning of the week, while handling any work, you have to rely on yourself instead of others, otherwise, the results may be opposite to you.
Leo
Ganesha says that the beginning of the week is going to be favorable for Leo. During this, the journeys made in connection with career business will prove to be pleasant, successful, and profitable. At the beginning of the week, there will be contact with influential people and by joining them, you will get an opportunity to work for beneficial schemes in the future.
Virgo
Ganesha says that this week is going to prove to be mixed for the people of Virgo. This week you need to be extremely careful with your opponents in your workplace. They may try to instigate both your seniors
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and juniors against you or try to divert you from your goal.
Libra
Ganesha says that the people of Libra zodiac will have a lot of need to negotiate this week because your work will be done by your words and your work will be spoiled by your words. In such a situation, whether there is any issue related to homefamily or any difficulty related to the field of work while removing it, you will need to use your words very carefully.
Scorpio
Ganesha says that this week has brought a lot of happiness to the people of Scorpio. At the beginning of the week, you can get some big achievements, which will increase your respect in society. During this, plans will be made to bring things related to comfort into the house.
Sagittarius
Ganesha ays that the people of Sagittarius need to pay a lot of attention to both their health and relationships this week. At the beginning of the week, you may have to face physical problems due to carelessness in eating and drinking or the emergence of some chronic disease.
Capricorn
Ganesha says that the people of Capricorn are going to get the full results of their hard work and efforts this week. At the beginning of the week itself, you can be honored in the workplace for the better work done in the past. Seniors and juniors will be seen appreciating your work.
Aquarius
Ganesha ays that the beginning of this week can be a bit challenging for the people of Aquarius. However, you will be able to face every challenge with your intelligence, discretion, and courage. The special thing is that you will get the full support of your best friends and relatives in getting out of any difficulty.
Pisces
Ganesha says that this week is going to be very auspicious for the people of Pisces. At the beginning of the week, you may get some big success, due to which there will be an atmosphere of happiness in the house.
( Celebrity Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla)
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Rep. Krishnamoorthi Battles Rising Grocery Costs, Defends Chicago
WASHINGTON,DC — At March 5th, House Oversight Committee hearing, Congressman Raja Krishna-moorthi criticized the Trump Administration’s inaction on rising grocery costs, defended the City of Chica-go, and warned of the devastating consequences of slashing Medicaid.
For over a month, Krishnamoorthi has urged the Trump Administration to address the surging cost of eggs. Directly
CHICAGO, IL- The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has withdrawn its challenge to Idaho’s ban on emer-gency abortion care in Idaho and Moyle, et al. v. United States. By ending this case, the Trump administra-tion signals that it will not enforce the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), a nearly 40-year-old law designed to protect pregnant patients' rights to lifesaving abortion care.
In response to this court action, Personal PAC President and CEO Sarah Garza Resnick issued the following statement: “The Trump administration is abandoning pregnant people and leaving them without critical medical care. By siding with anti-abortion extremists, the Trump DOJ is emboldening politicians and operatives to ignore federal law and put pregnant patients at risk. This action makes clear what the Trump administration thinks of women: they would rather see their pregnant constituents suffer—or even die—than allow access to abortion.”
“President Trump, if you’re watching this hearing, I respectfully ask when will egg costs be high enough for you to issue one executive order on bird flu? $10 a carton? $15 a carton? It’ll soon be cheaper to buy a magazine for an AK-47 than to buy breakfast. This is flat out wrong.”
addressing President Trump, he stated: “President Trump, if you’re watching, I respectfully ask—how high must egg prices rise before you take action on
bird flu? $10 a carton? $15? Soon, it’ll be cheaper to buy a magazine for an AK-47 than break-fast. This is flat-out wrong.” He also pushed back against Trump’s baseless claim that Chicago is "worse than Afghanistan," citing facts: “Condé Nast has named Chicago the best big city in America for eight consecutive years. It’s the largest rail hub, a leader in quantum technology, and home to the second-most Fortune 500 headquarters of any U.S. city. That doesn’t sound like Afghanistan to me.”
IAF Celebrates Women's Achievements at 2025 Awards Gala
NEW YORK, NY- The Indian American Forum (IAF) celebrated the strength, resilience, and achievements of women at its 14th Annual Women’s Achievements Awards Gala, held at Akbar Banquet, Long Island. The event aimed to inspire and highlight the importance of women's inclusion in building a better world.
Led by Chairperson Indu Jaiswal and Gala Chair Shammi Singh, the IAF team orchestrated a memorable evening, honoring accomplished women across various fields in the presence of esteemed guests and community leaders. Honorees received special citations from Nassau County Executive, Town of Oyster Bay, Town of Hempstead, Town of North Hempstead, and Nassau County Legislature.
• Dr. Leena Doshi – Founder of Doshi Diagnostics and Doshi Smiles, an athlete, philanthropist, and painter.
• Dr. Nita Mehta – Ophthalmologist specializing in glaucoma, active in multiple cultural and senior organizations.
Distinguished awardees included:
• Dr. Jagmohan Kalra, MD – Renowned hematologist-oncologist, community leader, and singer.
• Sarina Jain – Founder of Masala Bhangra, revolutionizing fitness through dance for over 30 years.
• Falu (Falguni Shah) – Grammywinning multilingual singer-songwriter, recognized globally for her contri-
butions to music.
• Sanjana Iyer – Youth empowerment advocate, professional dancer, musician, and DECA state qualifier. Notable officials, including Nassau County Comptroller Hon. Elaine Phillips and Town Supervisors Joseph Saladino and Jennifer DeSena, graced the occasion. Dr. Bobby Kalotee welcomed dignitaries who praised women's empowerment. The evening featured American and Indian national anthems, traditional Bharatnatyam and Kathak per-formances, and energetic Bhangra by Sarina Jain. DJ Parminder kept the dance floor lively.
Distinguished community leaders, trustees, and volunteers contributed to the event’s success. Hosted by Aashmeeta Yogiraj, the night concluded with a heartfelt thank-you from Shammi Singh and Roopam Maini. IAF’s dedicated efforts made this event a resounding celebration of women achievers across business, cul-ture, education, and social service.
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PAC President and CEO Sarah Garza
Illinois Senator Villivalam Introduces Bill for Inclusive School Calendars
HiIndia Newsdesk
SPRINGFIELD, IL — To help schools schedule major academic or athletic events more effectively, State Senator Ram Villivalam is sponsoring a measure that would require the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to provide calendar dates indicating when a portion of students may be absent due to cultural or religious observances.
“Our communities are diverse, meaning there are numerous days throughout the academic year when students may be absent for cultural or religious reasons,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Yet, students often face difficult decisions, such as missing a sporting event because it falls on a religious or cultural holiday.”
Currently, ISBE provides school districts with guidelines on attendance days, holidays, special circumstanc-es, and frequently asked questions related to school calendars.
Senate Bill 1616 would require ISBE to include on its website a list of days during the school year when a portion of students may be absent for cultural or religious reasons. While this measure
would not mandate school closures or excused absences, it aims to assist school districts in planning events around these ob-servances.
“Providing schools, administrators, and athletic associations with a list of relevant dates will support better planning and inclusivity,” Villivalam added. Senate
COHNA Hosts Black History Month Celebration at Georgia State Capitol
ATLANTA, GA – The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) hosted its 2nd annual "Building Bridges: Connecting Communities" event at the Georgia State Capitol on February 28, in celebration of Black Histo-ry Month. The gathering honored the Black community’s pivotal role in the civil rights movement and its efforts in fostering a more equitable America, paving the way for minority communities, including Hindu Americans, to thrive.
The event saw participation from over 40 lawmakers and featured remarks from prominent African Ameri-can leaders, including Senator Nikki Merritt, chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, and Senator Emanuel Jones, former GLBC chair. Other distinguished speakers included Senator Shawn Still
and State Representative Todd Jones.
"We see this as more than just an annual event—it’s an ongoing collaboration built on mutual respect," said Rajeev Menon, vice president and cofounder of CoHNA.
A highlight of the evening was an inspiring speech by Sagar Patel, an 11th-grade student, who emphasized the importance of youth engagement in civic advocacy.
The event also featured the Darshana Exhibit, showcasing Hindu contributions to history, culture, and so-ciety. Additionally, CoHNA released a special Black History Month video that highlighted the shared history between Hindu and Black Americans, reaffirming their commitment to justice and equality. The event underscored the enduring bond between these communities and their foundational role in strengthening future connections.
Bill 1616 passed the Senate Education Committee on Tuesday and now moves to the Senate for further consideration. This version enhances clarity, flow, and readability while keeping the message intact. Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!
Costly Military Deportation Flights Put on Hold by U.S.
WASHINGTON, DC – The Trump administration has suspended the use of military aircraft for deporting mi-grants due to high costs, with the last such flight occurring on March 1, according to The Wall Street Jour-nal. Military planes, including C-17 and C-130 aircraft, were utilized as part of the administration’s immigration crackdown. Since January, approximately 30 deportation flights used C-17s, while about a dozen employed C-130s, transporting migrants to destinations including India.Initially introduced as a symbolic measure to reinforce the administration’s tough stance on illegal immi-gration, these flights proved inefficient and expensive compared to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) usual practice of deporting migrants via commercial airlines.
Leadership & Innovation Empower Women at 9th Annual Dallas Conference
DALLAS, TX – The US-India Chamber of Commerce (USICOC) hosted its 9th Annual Women’s Conference on February 28, attracting over 450 attendees to one of North Texas’ largest women-focused business events. The conference provided a dynamic platform for networking, professional growth, and discussions on leadership and innovation.
Former U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison delivered the keynote address, offering insights on leadership, resilience, and the evolving role of women in business and politics. A trailblazer in public service, Hutchison emphasized perseverance and strategic vision as essential for success.
The event also featured panel discussions with accomplished women executives and entrepreneurs, who shared personal experiences and strategies for professional advancement. Key topics included overcoming challenges, fostering innovation, and driving women’s leadership across various industries.
Founded by Neeti Khaitan and Neel Goguntala, the Women’s Conference has grown into a key gathering for professional women in the region, fostering mentorship and collaboration. “We were honored to continue this tradition, providing a space for women to connect, share knowledge, and inspire one another,” said Raj Daniels, President of USICOC. “This event underscores our commitment to supporting women leaders and entrepreneurs.”
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“You’ll
be Deported,” – Naperville City Council Candidate Faces Hate Amid Campaign
Just ahead of elections on April 1, for the Naperville City Council, candidate Ashfaq Syed finds himself at the receiving end of online hate and racist comments
Zofeen Maqsood
Ashfaq Syed, a prominent activist and Naperville city Council candidate, who is involved with many civil and social organizations in the neighborhood posted on his social media the repercussions of being a candidate of color. He shared a screenshot of his social media page which contained inflammatory comments like – “Are you a terrorist?” Another comment that Syed highlighted read: “You better be legal… You’ll be deported.”
Syed, while speaking to Hi India Weekly about the hurtful remarks said, “We came to the United States to live the American Dream and not for such hate towards us and our family.”
He also said on his social media post: “Running for office is never easy. It demands time, energy, and personal sacrifice—not just from the candidate but from their family as well. The challenges of fundraising, voter outreach, and balancing campaign responsibilities with personal life are already significant. However, one of the most painful aspects is facing discrimination and personal attacks simply because of my name and faith.” He added, “Too often, I hear hateful remarks like: Are you a terrorist?; You better be legal…You’ll be deported…Go back to where you came from…”
This happens regularly, and it is one of the most difficult and heartbreaking realities of running for office as a Muslim American. It affects not just me but my family, who must endure these attacks alongside me.
Yet, despite these challenges, I carry myself with pride, dignity, and unwavering respect for our community. I refuse to let hate define this campaign or deter me from serving the city I love. I will be reporting this incident to the local authorities, as no one regardless of race, religion, or background—should have to tolerate such threats.” Soon, as Syed posted the message there was an outpouring of love and support from the community for him. Many advised him to stay strong as Naperville needed candidates like him. One of his followers also asked for people to show up for Syed during the upcoming St Patrick’s Day parade in the city. The comment read: "Let's show up for Ashfaq on Saturday, March 15th and march with him for Naperville's St Patrick's Day parade. Let's show him the love and support he so richly deserves."
Syed, a long time Naperville resident, is also the President of the Naperville Public Library Board of Trustees. He is also a member of the Board of Directors with Loaves & Fishes Community Services and is involved with many civic organizations in the neighborhood. He has also been the recipient of a proclamation by former Mayor Steve Chirico and Naperville City Council.
Syed’s priorities as a candidate for City Council remain a focus on sustainability. He also said, “I will work to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently to maintain and improve city services while alleviating the financial burden on residents. Public safety is paramount, and I will advocate for the resources, training, and staffing needed to support our police and fire departments, ensuring the well-being of every resident.
Bribery Charges Dropped for Some ComEd Defendants
CHICAGO, ILA federal judge has vacated some convictions in the 2023 bribery case of the so-called "ComEd Four" following a separate Supreme
The four were convicted of orchestrating jobs, contracts, and payments for Madigan's associates in an illegal effort to gain his favor for pro-ComEd legislation.
Court ruling.
Judge Manish Shah granted a request to dismiss four of the nine counts against former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, former ComEd lobbyist John Hooker, onetime City Club President Jay Doherty, and Michael McClain, a longtime confidant of nowconvicted ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.
The partial dismissal follows a Supreme Court ruling in an Indiana case, where a mayor was found not guilty of bribery for accepting a payment from a garbage company after awarding it a contract.
The court determined that a gift given after an official act, without an explicit quid pro quo, constitutes a legal gratuity rather than bribery.
Citing this precedent, the judge in the "ComEd Four" case granted the defendants' request to vacate some convictions. It remains unclear if or when federal prosecutors will seek a retrial. The judge has ordered a status report on the next steps by March 11, according to court documents.
Rare Disease Breakthrough: FDA Authorizes First-Ever Treatment for CTX
reducing these abnormal deposits and addressing the disorder's clinical effects.
WASHINGTON, DC- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Ctexli (chenodiol) for treating cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX)
in adults, marking the first FDAapproved therapy for this rare lipid storage disorder.
CTX is a genetic metabolic disease caused by mutations in the CYP27A1 gene, leading to enzyme deficiency that disrupts fat breakdown. This results in cholesterol metabolite deposits in organs like the brain, liver, skin, and tendons, causing significant damage. Ctexli replaces deficient bile acids,
In a 24-week, placebo-controlled trial, patients taking Ctexli (250 mg, three times daily) showed a significant reduction in plasma cholestanol and urine 23S-pentol, key cholesterol metabolites elevated in CTX. Ctexli's prescribing information includes a liver toxicity warning, especially for those with existing liver disease or bile duct abnormalities. Patients require liver function tests before and during treatment. Symptoms like nausea, fatigue, dark urine, and jaundice may indicate liver issues.
Common side effects include diarrhea, headache, abdominal pain, constipation, hypertension, and muscle weakness.
The FDA granted Priority Review, Fast Track, and Orphan Drug designations for Ctexli, which was approved for Mirum Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Ashfaq Syed
a prominent activist and Naperville city Council candidate,
