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Yogi Adityanath Slams Politics Over Language, Warns of Declining States

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Yogi Adityanath Slams Politics Over Language, Warns of Declining States

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has criticized the politics over language, asserting that states whose leaders engage in such divisive tactics are witnessing a gradual decline.

In an exclusive interview with PTI, Adityanath highlighted that Uttar Pradesh is generating significant employment opportunities, and narrow political debates over language could adversely affect the prospects of young job seekers.

“New job opportunities are emerging in Uttar Pradesh. People who are fueling language controversies may serve their political interests, but they are ultimately harming employment prospects for the youth,” the Chief Minister stated.

When asked if he was referring to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Adityanath responded, “Whoever is engaging in such politics, they are responsible for their states’ decline. They have no substantial issues, so they resort to inflaming emotions for political gain.”

Advocating for National Unity Through Language

Adityanath emphasized that languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi should serve as pillars of national unity rather than sources of division.

He pointed out that the Uttar Pradesh government has taken proactive steps to teach these regional languages in its educational institutions. “Does this diminish Uttar Pradesh in any way? Does it make UP look small?” he questioned, underscoring the importance of linguistic inclusivity.

Supporting the Three-Language Formula

The Chief Minister reiterated his support for India’s three-language formula, which promotes respect for Hindi while ensuring the preservation and dignity of regional languages.

“This formula ensures that regional languages receive due recognition. Every language has its own richness, which strengthens national unity,” he remarked.

Adityanath further stated that India’s diverse linguistic traditions enrich the country’s cultural fabric. He cited the Kashi Tamil Sangamam as a prime example of this unity, as it brings together two of India’s oldest languages—Tamil and Sanskrit—highlighting their shared heritage.

With Uttar Pradesh focusing on inclusive linguistic education and employment generation, Adityanath’s remarks underscore a broader vision of national integration through cultural and linguistic harmony.

Self-Styled Pastor Bajinder Singh Sentenced to Life Imprisonment in 2018 Rape Case

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Self-Styled Pastor Bajinder Singh Sentenced to Life Imprisonment in 2018 Rape Case

A court in Punjab’s Mohali on Tuesday sentenced self-styled pastor Bajinder Singh to life imprisonment in connection with a 2018 rape case.

The verdict was pronounced by Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Vikrant Kumar, bringing an end to the long-pending legal proceedings against the accused.

Bajinder Singh was found guilty on March 28 under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Section 376 (rape), Section 323 (punishment for voluntarily causing hurt), and Section 506 (criminal intimidation). The case was initially registered in 2018 based on a complaint filed by a woman at the Zirakpur police station in Mohali.

Ahead of the pronouncement of the verdict, tight security arrangements were put in place at the court complex to prevent any untoward incidents. The judgment marks a significant ruling in the case that had drawn considerable attention from both legal and Christian community circles.

Authorities confirmed that Bajinder Singh will now serve a life sentence as per the court’s directive. The case has been closely followed due to its implications within religious communities and the broader issue of legal actions against self-proclaimed religious leaders involved in criminal activities.

Further details regarding potential appeals or additional legal proceedings remain to be seen. Meanwhile, law enforcement officials have reiterated their commitment to upholding justice and ensuring the safety of victims in such cases.

 

Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrated with Religious Fervour Across Jammu Region

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Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrated with Religious Fervour Across Jammu Region

Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramzan, was celebrated with religious devotion and enthusiasm across the Jammu region today. The occasion was marked by grand congregational prayers, heartfelt greetings, and communal harmony.

From early morning, Muslim communities, dressed in traditional white attire, gathered at mosques and Eidgahs to offer special Eid prayers. The largest congregation in Jammu took place at Eidgah Residency Road, where hundreds of people from various parts of the city came together to pray for peace and prosperity.

Security and Administrative Arrangements

The administration and the Waqf Board made elaborate arrangements at Eidgah for the smooth conduct of prayers, with tight security measures in place to prevent any untoward incidents.

Special Eid prayers were also offered at prominent mosques, including Jamia Masjid Khatika Talab, Jamia Masjid Ustad Mohalla, Jamia Masjid near Tawi Bridge, and Jamia Masjids in Bhatindi, Sidhra, and Sunjwan, among other locations.

Festive Spirit and Community Harmony

The streets and marketplaces were abuzz with festive cheer as members of the Muslim community embraced and exchanged greetings. Members of other communities also joined in the celebrations, extending their best wishes to their Muslim brethren. Children, dressed in colorful attire, eagerly spent their Eidy on sweets, toys, and festive treats, adding to the jubilant atmosphere.

Celebrations Across the Region

In Kathua, hundreds of Muslims gathered at Eidgah to offer prayers, with similar scenes witnessed in Bani, Billawar, and Basohli. In Udhampur, the Jamia Masjid at Adarsh Colony saw a large turnout of worshippers.

In Ramban, prayers were held at Jamia Masjid Qadim and Jamia Masjid Jadeed, while in Banihal and Batote, special prayers were offered in their respective mosques. In Reasi, the Eidgah at Gran Morh on Jotipuram Road was the center of festivities.

Doda and Bhaderwah witnessed prayers in their respective Eidgahs, while in Rajouri, thousands of worshippers assembled at Eidgah to offer their Namaz. Senior civil and police officers, including the Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri, DIG Rajouri-Poonch range, and SSP Rajouri, extended greetings and distributed sweets among children.

Message of Love and Brotherhood

Imams delivering sermons across different mosques emphasized the significance of Ramzan and the values of Eid-ul-Fitr, highlighting the festival’s message of love, brotherhood, and humanity.

In Kishtwar, thousands gathered at Eidgah Chowgan for prayers, with heightened security ensuring a peaceful celebration. Similarly, Poonch, Mendhar, Surankote, and Mandi witnessed grand Eid congregations. At the Markazi Eidgah in Poonch, a large number of worshippers offered prayers, with the administration ensuring smooth arrangements.

Eid-ul-Fitr once again reinforced the spirit of unity and festivity across Jammu and Kashmir, bringing communities together in a celebration of faith, compassion, and joy.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Visit Jammu and Kashmir for High-Level Security Review

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Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Visit Jammu and Kashmir for High-Level Security Review

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on April 7 and 8 to conduct a high-level review of the security situation in the region. During his visit, Shah is expected to assess the security framework, visit the International Border (IB), and meet the families of police personnel who recently attained martyrdom.

According to official sources, the final itinerary of the Home Minister’s visit is being worked out and is expected to be announced within the next couple of days.

Security Review and High-Level Meetings Shah will hold meetings with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, senior officers of paramilitary forces, Intelligence agencies, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the civil administration. The discussions will primarily focus on the recent terror incidents, cross-border infiltration attempts, and counter-terrorism operations.

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) officers overseeing Jammu and Kashmir, and senior Army officers in the Union Territory are also expected to participate in the meeting. In addition, heads of paramilitary forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), will accompany Shah from New Delhi.

This visit follows the recent fierce gun battle at Safiyan Jakhole in Rajbagh, Kathua district, where four police personnel were martyred, and two terrorists were killed. The Home Minister’s visit aims to strengthen security mechanisms and review counter-terrorism measures to prevent further infiltration attempts.

Visit to International Border and Martyrs’ Families A significant part of Shah’s visit will include an on-ground assessment of the International Border (IB), where multiple infiltration attempts have been reported from Pakistan. Security measures will be evaluated to ensure zero infiltration and the neutralization of terrorists who have managed to enter Indian territory.

Additionally, the Home Minister is expected to visit the families of some of the police personnel who lost their lives in the recent encounters, paying tribute to their sacrifices and reassuring them of the government’s commitment to national security.

Government’s Strategy Post-Article 370 Abrogation Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, the Government has reinforced its counter-terrorism operations while also focusing on infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir. Shah’s visit is viewed as a continuation of these efforts, ensuring that security forces remain vigilant and well-equipped to handle emerging threats.

This will be the Home Minister’s first visit to the region after the Assembly elections and the formation of the new government under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Shah previously reviewed the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir through five meetings in New Delhi between December 2024 and February 2025.

Railway Security Measures in Focus With Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to flag off the train to Kashmir Valley from Katra on April 19, security agencies will also focus on securing railway tracks and stations. Ensuring the safety of railway infrastructure will be an essential part of the upcoming security discussions.

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan had recently visited Jammu to review security preparedness, indicating a coordinated effort by the central government to maintain law and order in the region.

Conclusion Amit Shah’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir underscores the government’s proactive approach in dealing with security challenges in the region. The discussions and on-ground assessments during his tour will play a crucial role in shaping future strategies to curb terrorism, enhance security, and support the people affected by insurgent activities.

Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal Leads Historic Mt. Kangchenjunga Expedition 2025

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Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal Leads Historic Mt. Kangchenjunga Expedition 2025

Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal, a celebrated mountaineer from Jammu, has embarked on a historic mission to lead the Mt. Kangchenjunga Expedition 2025. The expedition, led by Team NIMAS (National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports, Arunachal Pradesh), was flagged off by Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth.

The primary goal of the mission is to hoist the Tricolor atop Mt. Kangchenjunga (8,586m), India’s third-highest peak, as part of the ‘Har Shikhar Tiranga’ initiative.

Col Jamwal & NIMAS: Record-Breaking Legacy

Under Col Jamwal’s leadership, NIMAS has set numerous records, the most recent being in February 2025, when Team NIMAS became the first-ever team to raft the entire 1,040 km stretch of the Brahmaputra River, setting a new world record.

Mt. Kangchenjunga, known for its harsh weather, technical challenges, and avalanche risks, is considered even tougher than Mt. Everest. At the flag-off ceremony, Sanjay Seth praised NIMAS’s efforts and lauded Col Jamwal’s invaluable contribution to adventure sports in India.

Col Jamwal: A Mountaineering Icon

Col Jamwal holds a legendary status in the world of adventure:

  • Only person from Jammu & Kashmir to have summited Mt. Everest three times.

  • First from the region to have climbed the highest peaks on all seven continents.

  • Holds multiple world, Asian, and Indian records in mountaineering, cycling, and rafting.

His resilience, discipline, and passion for adventure have inspired countless young people, especially in Jammu & Kashmir, to embrace the spirit of exploration and push their limits.

Message to the Youth

Col Jamwal’s words of motivation remain clear:

“Dream big, work hard, and never give up. The mountains may be tough, but the spirit of a true adventurer is tougher.

LSG Defeat SRH by Five Wickets as Shardul Thakur, Nicholas Pooran Shine

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LSG Defeat SRH by Five Wickets as Shardul Thakur, Nicholas Pooran Shine

Shardul Thakur’s four-wicket haul and an explosive innings from Nicholas Pooran powered Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to a five-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in an IPL match on Thursday.

Shardul, continuing his dream comeback, registered figures of 4/34 to help LSG restrict SRH to 190/9. Later, Pooran’s blazing 70 off just 26 balls (6x4s, 6x6s) helped LSG chase down the target in just 16.1 overs.

Pooran’s Power-Hitting Leads the Chase

LSG had a shaky start, losing Aiden Markram early, but Mitchell Marsh (52 off 31) and Nicholas Pooran ensured a quick recovery. The duo added 116 runs for the second wicket, completely dominating SRH’s bowling attack.

  • Pooran displayed breathtaking 360-degree hitting, smashing Simarjeet and Abhishek Sharma for huge sixes towards the square boundary.

  • He also took on Pat Cummins, hitting him for two boundaries in his first over, pushing LSG to 77/1 in the powerplay.

  • Pooran reached his half-century in just 18 balls, making it the fastest fifty of this IPL season.

His magnificent knock ended when Cummins trapped him LBW in the ninth over.

After Pooran’s dismissal, Marsh took charge, bringing up his 50 in just 29 balls. LSG skipper Rishabh Pant (15 off 15) didn’t contribute much, but Abdul Samad’s quick cameo ensured LSG got home comfortably.

Shardul Thakur Dismantles SRH Batting Lineup

Earlier, opting to bowl first, Shardul Thakur (4/34) gave LSG a fiery start by removing Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan off consecutive balls in the third over.

  • Sharma fell to a short ball, while Ishan edged an innocuous delivery down the leg side.

  • Travis Head (47 off 28) counter-attacked, smashing Avesh Khan for two sixes and a four in the fourth over.

Head got two lifelines when Nicholas Pooran dropped a simple catch at long-on, and Ravi Bishnoi missed a return catch. However, his luck ran out when Prince Yadav bowled him for his first IPL wicket.

  • Heinrich Klaasen (26 off 17) was looking dangerous but got run out in an unfortunate manner when a Nitish Reddy straight drive ricocheted onto the stumps off Yadav’s follow-through.

  • Young Aniket Verma (36 off 13) played a blistering cameo, smashing five sixes, before falling to leg-spinner Disvesh Rathi.

  • Skipper Pat Cummins (18 off 4) finished strong, hitting three sixes in his first three balls before departing.

Match Summary

SRH: 190/9 in 20 overs (Travis Head 47; Shardul Thakur 4/34)
LSG: 193/5 in 16.1 overs (Nicholas Pooran 70; Pat Cummins 2/29)

Result: LSG won by five wickets.

Government: No IAF or Chartered Flights Used for Indian Immigrants’ Repatriation Since 2020

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Government: No IAF or Chartered Flights Used for Indian Immigrants’ Repatriation Since 2020

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has not hired any Indian Air Force (IAF), chartered, or commercial civilian aircraft for the repatriation of Indian immigrants from any country since 2020, the government informed Parliament on Thursday.

Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita stated this in a written response to a Rajya Sabha query raised by TMC MP Saket Gokhale.

The MEA was asked to provide details of all instances when it had used IAF aircraft, chartered flights, or commercial civilian aircraft to bring back Indian immigrants being deported from other countries between 2020 and the present. The query also sought details of countries that have used military aircraft for deporting Indian nationals since 2020.

“The MEA has not hired any IAF or chartered/commercial civilian aircraft for repatriating Indian immigrants being deported since 2020. However, in exceptional cases, Indian immigrants facing deportation were assisted in returning home through the purchase of tickets on commercial flights,” Margherita said.

US Deports 388 Indian Nationals in 2025

The government informed Parliament on March 21 that a total of 388 Indian nationals have been deported from the United States since January 2025 for illegally residing in the country.

  • 333 Indians were deported directly from the US on three separate military flights in February.

  • 55 Indian nationals were deported through Panama on commercial flights.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, in a written response to Lok Sabha, stated that from 2009 to 2024, a total of 15,564 Indian nationals were deported from the US to India via chartered or commercial aircraft.

Government Raises Concerns Over Religious Sensitivities

In response to a separate AAP MP Harbhajan Singh’s query, MoS Kirti Vardhan Singh said the Indian government has raised concerns with the US government regarding the need to accommodate religious sensitivities and food preferences of deported Indian nationals.

He stated that US authorities denied forcing deportees to remove religious head coverings and said that deportees only requested vegetarian meals.

The MEA remains engaged with the US to ensure humane treatment of deportees during repatriation operations.

US Deportations via Panama

Beginning January 20, 2025, the US deported 55 Indian nationals to New Delhi via Panama. These individuals were first deported to Panama under a bilateral arrangement, and Panama then facilitated their deportation to New Delhi on commercial flights with the help of the International Organisation of Migration (IOM).

The government confirmed that no Indian national has been deported by the US to any country other than Panama.

The MEA continues to work with the US authorities to ensure the safe and dignified return of all verified Indian nationals.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Declares ‘Good Days’ in Rajya Sabha

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Declares ‘Good Days’ in Rajya Sabha

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday proclaimed the arrival of ‘Good Days’ in the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing that the Modi government is dedicated to the nation with its mind, body, and life.

While replying to the discussion on the Appropriation (No. 3) Bill 2025 and the Finance Bill 2025, Sitharaman highlighted the far-reaching impact of public welfare schemes like Jan Dhan, PM Awas Yojana, Swachh Bharat, Jal Jeevan Mission, Ujjwala, PM Mudra Yojana, and Jan Aushadhi, which have significantly improved the lives of citizens.

Following the discussion, both bills were returned to the Lok Sabha by voice vote.

Key Announcements by Sitharaman:

✅ Tax Benefits:

  • Changes in income tax brackets will exempt two crore taxpayers, primarily from the middle and lower-upper classes.

  • Tax compliance has been simplified to reduce the burden on taxpayers.

  • Revisions in the TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) process will benefit people and boost market demand.

✅ Economic Growth & Reforms:

  • The Union Budget prioritizes public welfare and national development.

  • Revenue collected through taxes is utilized for the benefit of citizens.

  • Business fees have been revised, making the environment more favorable for entrepreneurs.

  • Changes in excise duty will stimulate demand and promote self-reliance.

  • Indian exporters will benefit, making Indian products more competitive globally.

✅ Pension System Update:

  • The old and new pension schemes will now be at par, ensuring no financial loss for pensioners.

✅ Post-COVID Economic Recovery:

  • The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy is fading.

  • India is progressing rapidly towards becoming the third-largest economy.

  • The Modi government has implemented policy reforms to safeguard both lives and livelihoods post-pandemic.

  • Digital infrastructure development has further boosted economic growth.

✅ Central Schemes & Revenue Allocation:

  • Sitharaman clarified that funding for MNREGA and other central schemes has not been reduced, with 105% of the allocated budget utilized.

  • She dismissed claims of discriminatory revenue allocation, stating that funds are distributed as per the Finance Commission’s recommendations, while also considering state priorities.

✅ Social Security Expansion:

  • The scope of social security has been broadened, ensuring better benefits for the public.

Sitharaman’s address reinforced the government’s commitment to economic stability, welfare policies, and reforms, ensuring a prosperous future for India.

J&K Assembly to Debate Statehood Restoration Resolutions During Budget Session

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J&K Assembly to Debate Statehood Restoration Resolutions During Budget Session

Three resolutions demanding the restoration of Statehood for Jammu and Kashmir are among 14 private member resolutions set to be discussed in the Legislative Assembly during the second part of the budget session from April 7-9.

Private members’ bills will be taken up on April 8, while resolutions will be debated on April 7 and 9.

Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather informed Daily Excelsior that resolutions regarding Article 370 were rejected as a similar resolution had already been passed in November last year. As per the Rules, the same resolution cannot be taken up within a year.

Rather also mentioned that MLAs who submitted resolutions were invited to witness the draw of lots for the selection of seven resolutions for each of the two days. The process was conducted transparently, with some MLAs present and the proceedings being videographed.

Key Resolutions to Be Debated

April 7

  • Qaisar Jamshaid Lone (NC): Calls for the immediate restoration of Statehood as promised by the Central Government in Parliament.

  • Hilal Akbar Lone (NC): Urges the Centre to fulfill its promise of restoring J&K’s Statehood.

  • Shabir Ahmad Kullay (Independent): Seeks unanimous support from the House for full Statehood restoration.

  • Waheed-Ur-Rehman Para (PDP): Proposes a complete ban on heavy machinery for sand and riverbed mining in J&K.

  • Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Mir (NC): Calls for improved healthcare facilities in rural and far-flung areas.

  • Ali Mohammad Sagar (NC): Demands regularization of ‘Rehbar-e-Janglat’ (forest guides).

  • Ali Mohammad Dar (NC): Requests correction of errors in land records.

April 9

  • Ajaz Ahmad Jan (NC): Advocates for a separate administrative setup and infrastructure development for the Pir Panjal region (Rajouri and Poonch).

  • Bashir Ahmad Veeri (NC): Demands a stop to illegal riverbed mining and better environmental conservation measures.

  • Rajiv Jasrotia (BJP): Calls for tunnel construction from Bhora to Dhar Road and at Mata Bala Sundari in Kathua to improve connectivity.

  • Rameshwar Singh (Independent): Proposes extending holidays in Bani, Lohai Malhar, Basantgarh, and Latti during the Kailash Kund Yatra.

  • Sajad Shaheen (NC): Seeks regularization of 18 residential colonies in Jammu district for better urban planning and civic amenities.

  • Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Mir (NC): Urges the government to address unemployment among educated youth.

The Assembly’s debate on these resolutions is expected to be a key highlight of the session, particularly concerning the demand for the restoration of Statehood.

LG Manoj Sinha Hands Over Appointment Letter to Reasi Terror Attack Victim’s Sister

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LG Manoj Sinha Hands Over Appointment Letter to Reasi Terror Attack Victim’s Sister

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today handed over an appointment letter on compassionate grounds to Renu Sharma, the sister of Arjun Sharma, who lost his life in the Reasi terror attack.

Arjun Sharma, a resident of Reasi, was the conductor of the bus carrying pilgrims that was attacked by terrorists on June 9, 2024.

During the appointment letter handover, the Lieutenant Governor assured the family of all possible assistance and support from the Jammu and Kashmir administration, reaffirming the government’s commitment to standing by the families of victims of terrorism.

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