AV 21st October 2023 by Asian Business Publications Ltd

FIRST & FOREMOST ASIAN WEEKLY IN EUROPE India resumes ferry service with Lanka after four decades

Gandhian philosophy of non-violence is essential today: Rajmohan Gandhi

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The ultimate Maldives getaway

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21 - 27 OCTOBER 2023

President honours Waheeda Rehman, Allu Arjun, Alia Bhatt and Kriti Sanon with film awards

Let noble thoughts come to us from every side

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High Commission of India will make all the efforts to reach out to the community: Minister of Coordination

The inspiring stories of pioneering women in medicine

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VOL 52 - ISSUE 25

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Exploring multi-cultural musical heritage

NO PLACE FOR HATE

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Positive articulation of queer rights in India by Chief Justice pleases LGBTQ+ community

Navratri, Durga Puja celebrations commence worldwide

The ongoing war-torn conditions in Israel have given rise to hate crimes in the UK. Faith and community organisations express deep concerns yet show resilience to handle this adversity.

FULL STORY ON PAGE 17

Terrorism for whatever reason is against humanity, says PM Modi 2,500 people from all religions and walks of life turned up at an Antisemitism rally, Parliament Square on 8 December, 2019

During the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, London has witnessed a concerning increase in antisemitic incidents. Metropolitan Police data shows that between September 30 and October 13, antisemitic incidents rose from 14 to 105, and related offences increased from 12 to 75 compared to the same period the previous year. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, during his visit to Sweden, condemned this trend as "disgusting." The UK government has allocated funds to enhance security at Jewish establishments, emphasising its commitment to safeguarding the Jewish community from threats and intimidation. Continued on page 12

FULL STORY ON PAGE 25

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21 - 27 October 2023

Braverman aims to target migrants with higher salary requirements The Home Secretary is formulating new measures to address the influx of migrants and reduce record arrivals in the UK before the upcoming election. Suella Braverman is advocating for an increase in the salary threshold for immigrants as part of a comprehensive plan. Currently, skilled workers qualify for visas if the job offers a salary of £26,200, which is 20 percent below the median average salary of £33,280. Among the other potential measures under consideration is a more stringent approach to dependents entering the country, which could encompass the fami-

Suella Braverman

lies of unskilled workers, including seasonal workers and care workers. The goal is to issue an announcement prior to the release of the next immigration data by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) next

month, but there is currently no agreement in place with No. 10. The Conservative party pledged during the 2019 general election to reduce overall immigration numbers, but data released in May showed that net migration had reached a record high of 606,000 the previous year. This increase was primarily attributed to individuals from outside the European Union coming to the UK for work or study, as well as those arriving from Ukraine and Hong Kong through special visa programs, as reported by the ONS.

Consultants in covert discussions to halt strikes NHS consultants have initiated discreet negotiations with the government aimed at putting an end to strikes, signalling progress following months of industrial action. The British Medical Association has entered into informal talks regarding the conditions required to conclude a walkout by senior doctors, with sources in the healthcare sector noting a sense of "cautious optimism" about this development. While there were reports of a potential one-time payment, senior officials have dismissed such claims. Health Secretary Steve Barclay is reportedly eager

to reach an agreement with consultants, which could potentially isolate more miljunior doctors. itant Consultants have not formally scheduled strikes, which has created an opportunity for informal discussions. One option under consideration is a one-time payment of 6% for the 34,600 NHS consultants, in addition to the previously announced 6% pay increase. This approach would mirror the strategy employed this year with nurses and other NHS unions, where a lump-sum payment was offered without becoming a

permanent part of future pay. Ministers have expressed concerns that a more generous deal for doctors could lead to discontent among other NHS staff. However, some sources downplay the notion of a one-time payment, asserting that the talks have primarily revolved around gauging the parameters for formal negotiations rather than presenting concrete proposals. Reportedly, the leadership of the BMA is divided, with some advocating for compromise and others urging solidarity with their junior colleagues.

Pop-up cells in prison yards to address overcrowding A plan to revamp sentencing and alleviate prison overcrowding will focus on introducing pop-up prison cells, deporting foreign criminals, and having low-level offenders address issues like graffiti removal. Justice Secretary Alex Chalk is anticipated to inform Parliament that it's crucial to incarcerate serious violent offenders. However, he will

Alex Chalk

also highlight that short sentences may contribute to creating more hardened

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criminals who could be more effectively penalised through community-based punishments. Despite this, concerns have been raised about the lack of available prison space, especially following reports in The Times last week indicating that prisons in England and Wales were operating at full capacity. Chalk will introduce a "programme of reform" in which he is expected to outline how judges can sentence low-level offenders to community-based tasks such as neighbourhood cleanup, graffiti removal, or tree planting. Ministry of Justice (MoJ) data reveals that there are now fewer than 600 available spaces in the prison system, with fewer than 150 in men's prisons. In response to this situation, former Justice Secretary David Gauke has suggested that Chalk should contemplate implementing a ban on all sentences under six months to alleviate the pressure on the system.

Steve Barclay 'alarmed' by threefold rise in child vaping The Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, has voiced concern about the threefold increase in the number of children using e-cigarettes in the past three years. The government is taking initial steps to prohibit candy-coloured disposable versions of e-cigarettes. Barclay expressed his worry, both as a health secretary and a parent, about ecigarettes being marketed in a manner that resembles sweets. While he acknowledged that vaping is a better alternative to smoking, he emphasised that those who do not smoke should not be

Steve Barclay

vaping. A consultation has been launched to address youth vaping and work towards a smoke-free generation by

banning smoking entirely. Chancellor Rishi Sunak recently announced plans to phase out the purchase of cigarettes by gradually raising the legal age at which they can be bought, ensuring that a 14-year-old today will never be allowed to purchase them. The consultation also aims to make vapes less appealing, affordable, and accessible to children. Raising the legal age for cigarette purchases is intended to prevent people from developing smoking addictions and make it easier for them to quit.

NHS seeks £1bn bailout due to record-high waiting lists The NHS is urgently seeking a £1 billion bailout from government ministers to avert a financial crisis it attributes to doctors' strikes. Discussions with the Treasury have been initiated, as healthcare leaders express concerns that they may need to abandon their efforts to reduce waiting lists if financial constraints

become unmanageable. Waiting lists have reached a new peak of 7.75 million, intensifying concerns among NHS leaders about a looming "severe financial crisis." Meeting the high demand has required paying escalated overtime rates to cover shifts during doctors' strikes. The strikes have inflicted over £700 million in costs on hospitals

this fiscal year, and if they continue through the winter, the deficit could potentially rise to approximately £1.5 billion. Julian Kelly, NHS England's financial director, disclosed at a recent board meeting that there had been a substantial overspend of over £1 billion this year, with strikes cited as the primary contributing factor.

Blair assists billionaire in launching Oxford institute One of the world's wealthiest individuals is partnering with Sir Tony Blair to establish a research institute in the UK aimed at addressing the challenges confronting humanity. Larry Ellison, the US tech billionaire who founded Oracle in the 1970s, is creating an Oxford branch of the Ellison Institute, scheduled to open in 2025. The original institute was founded in Los Angeles eight years ago by Ellison and American cancer researcher Dr David Agus.

The new site is expected to significantly bolster the UK's technology sector's growth and will also institute a scholarship program for 20 students annually. The American institute's initial focus was on cancer and global public health, but it has since expanded its mission to encompass four key areas: food security and sustainable agriculture, medical science and healthcare, clean energy and climate change, as well as government policy and economics.

Sir Tony Blair

Larry Ellison, 79, is valued at $139.5 billion (£114.46 billion), according to Forbes.

Humza Yousaf pledges to push for independence Scottish nationalist leader Humza Yousaf has pledged to use Britain's next general election to push for Scottish independence. He stated this considering the possibility that even if his party loses, several seats as expected. Addressing the Scottish National Party (SNP) conference in Aberdeen, Yousaf expressed his unwavering commitment to establishing a "sustained majority" in favour of Scotland gaining independence from the UK. He emphasised that should the SNP secure a majority of seats in the anticipated 2024 UK election, they will assert their "mandate for independence

Humza Yousaf

negotiations" with the British government. Yousaf enthusiastically declared to the cheering delegates that in their upcoming election manifesto, the very first line on the very first page would be a clear message: "Vote

SNP for Scotland to achieve independent nation status." Scotland rejected independence in a 2014 referendum that the UK government says has settled the question. But the SNP says it will push for independence negotiations with Westminster and a second referendum if it wins at least 29 of the 57 seats up for grabs in Scotland. The separatist party currently has 43 MPs in Scotland.Polling analysts anticipate that Labour may regain many Scottish seats from the SNP, and they suggest this is essential for Labour to reclaim authority in the UK government.

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21 - 27 October 2023

NHS’s age-old problems find fresh solutions As the world tries to catch up with the innovations of technology to make lives easier, the UK’s NHS has also entered this new era. Various start-ups are aiding this transition by helping the trust with new operating and management systems, some heavily dependent on Artificial Intelligence (AI), to make the process of consultations, data management and tests/scans much more accessible and efficient. Artificial Intelligence holds the promise of effecting substantial improvements within healthcare and care environments by its capacity to analyse extensive volumes of complex data. We're currently witnessing remarkable instances of AI's practical applications, and ongoing efforts are focused on fully unlocking its advantages while ensuring the safe and ethical implementation of AI on a larger scale. For instance, British tech company Quantexa, led by Vishal Marria, aims to secure a £480 million contract to handle the medical information of millions of NHS patients instead of a US tech company used for spying. Quantexa believes that the health records of the NHS are extremely important for the UK, and they want to make sure this data is stored in a platform based in the UK. Its data platform will let computers in different hospitals share information, making it easier for doctors to access complete medical records quickly. This will help researchers study the data, find problems, and identify patterns in diseases, which could lead to new treatments. Many experts, including Sir Chris Whitty, England's chief medical officer, support this approach. One more example of this forward-thinking approach is KPMG's involvement in technology consulting through Digital Healthcare Advisory. Raj Cheema leads this advisory, helping the NHS improve its healthcare systems with digital solutions. Last year, the Advisory grew by 73%, and it's expected to grow by another 97% in 2023. The results have been both strategic and policy-related, working with NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care. It has also provided assistance on the ground, helping Integrated Care Systems (ICS) and NHS Trusts achieve better outcomes for their staff, local residents, and patients. Similarly, IMPOWER has been helping hospitals across the UK manage the increasing demand for beds. They focus on the first 72 hours of a patient's stay in the hospital and quickly move

them to the most suitable care setting by building strong relationships with frontline healthcare workers. Simpler-focused services like online consultations and diagnosis, along with virtual health assistance, predictive analysis and remote monitoring have also had a helping hand in making healthcare more accessible. As the healthcare system in the UK constantly faces a decrease in the number of doctors available, this mounts additional pressure on the medical professionals and also the NHS, adding to the already piling backlog. While solutions are being discussed and implemented constantly, AI can be a huge help when it comes to sorting medics throughout the country based on the frequency of demand. With the NHS facing problems like appointment backlogs, lack of doctors and a scattered, de-centralised system, funding is a very crucial aspect of its improvisation and advancement. The trust, at the end of the day, is a charity and will need money to invite aid from startups, which just like the NHS, need funding to operate. Influential figures in the UK and the government need to focus on providing funding, not only towards the stumbling blocks that infest the healthcare in the UK but also towards the advancement of medical research. According to data from official sources, the United States spent a whopping £558.62 billion on research and development in 2022, while the UK government's R&D spending stayed at £20 billion. India, on the other hand, spent £53.6 billion dollars. This stark difference in the spending of these countries clearly highlights the leaps Britain has yet to take in the field of research. While people in the UK support using AI to reduce long NHS waiting lists, there's more work to do to gain the public's trust in this technology if the UK wants to keep pace with other countries. It is also clear that AI will not bring in all the solutions. Extensive planning and implementation needs to be done on the ground level and a smooth amalgamation of the policies and technology needs to take place. However, it is also true that the miracles of new technology can help solve the old discrepancies in the medical system if used wisely and correctly. With the current entrepreneurs and leaders clearly understanding the advent of AI, it is highly possible to alleviate the country of its healthcare issues.

Historical roots of the Israel-Palestine conflict The two communities, Jews and Palestinians, have once again come face to face after Gaza-based terrorist group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The conflict between Israel and Palestine began with the establishment of the Jewish state in 1948, but its roots can be traced back to mythological times. The history of the Jewish people begins with the biblical figure Abraham, who is considered the father of the Jewish faith. According to the Hebrew Bible (known as the Old Testament in Christianity), God made a covenant with Abraham, promising him and his descendants a special relationship. When Abraham arrived in Canaan (present-day Israel), the land was inhabited by the Philistines (whom Palestinians consider their ancestors) and Canaanite people. According to a Bible story, God had promised Abraham this land, which is why the Jewish people consider it the Promised Land, while Palestinians regard it as the ancestral homeland. Christianity's foundation lies in the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, who was born and raised as a Jew in the first century CE. The culture, beliefs, and religious practices of the Jewish community at that time greatly influenced his early life. Jesus' teachings, as recorded in the New Testament, often reference Jewish scripture, traditions, and ethics. He addressed issues important to the Jewish community, such as the interpretation of the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible) and adherence to Jewish law. In the thousands of years of history following Abraham, the Jewish people have experienced numerous rises and falls. During the times of King David and King Solomon, the Jewish kingdom reached its zenith. However, subsequent rulers faced conquests and dominion by various powers, including the Babylonians, the Ottoman Turks, and the Romans. Ultimately, the British ruled over this region before its more recent history. The Jewish people were displaced many times due to foreign invasions and scattered throughout the world due to the persecutions inflicted on them. Jews who went to any country prospered there, but their ultimate dream remained the Promised Land. Therefore, in the modern era, prosperous Jews initiated the Zionist movement in 1900, advocating for their own separate homeland. In 1917, Britain, which at the time ruled most of the world, issued the Balfour Declaration, pledging a separate nation for Jews. Following the end of World War I, immediate British rule was imposed over Palestine as a result of the League of Nations (now the United Nations) mandate. The bitter and unresolved roots of the Israel-Palestine conflict can be traced back to this mandate. The needs and desires of the Palestinians who reside in the area are said to have been disregarded. Palestinian citizens also desired independence. The conflict between Jews and Palestinians escalated during the Second World War. The mass murder of Jews in Germany led to the exodus of thousands of Jewish refugees towards

Palestine. In order to resolve this issue, the United Kingdom suggested a UN resolution on Palestine's future in February 1947. A resolution to divide Palestine into two distinct states—one for Jews and one for Palestinians (Gaza and the West Bank)—was approved by the United Nations. However, Arabs opposed this decision. The Palestinians did not approve of this resolution, leading to ongoing violent conflicts between both sides. On May 15, 1948, Israel declared itself an independent state. In response to this declaration, five Arab nations— Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and Saudi Arabia—launched an attack on Israel, leading to a war. As a result of this conflict, Israel was divided into three parts. Jordan took control of the West Bank, while Gaza came under Egyptian control. In 1967, there was another attack on Israel by Arab nations, but in the six-day conflict, Israel gained control over the West Bank, Jerusalem, Gaza, the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt, and the Golan Heights of Syria. This war left the Palestinians disillusioned once again. Arab nations fought against Israel in 1973 on October 6 in defence of Palestinian rights, and this conflict continued until October 25, resulting in significant casualties. Over time, as Arab efforts to establish Palestine weakened and due to internal divisions, Palestinians resorted to arming themselves. This led to the active formation of organisations like the Palestinian Liberation Army, Fatah, the Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas, Hezbollah, and others. When Palestinians obtained an independent state, they did not make any significant efforts to establish their own military or achieve self-sufficiency. Consequently, they continued to rely on the support of Arab nations and the mercy of Western countries. Palestinian guerrilla groups occasionally launched attacks on Israel, which, in turn, led Israel to evacuate Jewish settlers from various parts of the world and resettle them with the help of the international community. Due to the ongoing war, many international communities rushed to voice their concern about the escalation in tensions. Many countries are criticising Israel's actions in bombing Gaza. From South Africa to Norway, the Middle East to Southeast Asia, calls for an end to the siege of Gaza are growing. The governments of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Iran appeared to blame Israel for its escalating conflict with Hamas and even denounced the tit for tat move. Sources revealed that anti-Semitic incidents have surged around the world. According to the most recent figures, the Community Security Trust (CST), which speaks for British Jews on racial and policing problems, said it had documented events it deemed to be “anti-Jewish hate” over the course of 10 days. According to the charity, just 47 instances were reported over this same period in 2022, a rise of 581%. PM Rishi Sunak reiterated to the public that waving a Palestinian flag on UK soil is punishable by a 14-year prison sentence. (Refer to page 1 story.)

Thought for the week "A word after a word after a word is power." – Margaret Atwood

Political Sketchbook Alpesh Patel

Western Inaction: A Perplexing Paradox The streets of London witnessed protests where supporters of Hamas were openly voicing their opinions. This is a criminal offense under UK law, as Hamas is a proscribed terrorist organization. The Prime Minister and the Home Secretary had to explicitly urge the police to take action. This is not an isolated incident; India has been pleading with Western authorities to take similar action against supporters of Khalistani groups like Babar Khalsa as they ripped Indian flags outside the Indian High Commission. (Flag burning is a common trait of extremists who support terrorist organisations). The question that arises is: why is the West so slow to react? A Surrey University student was arrested for supporting Hamas, which is a step in the right direction. However, it's well-documented that universities can be breeding grounds for extremist ideologies. India has been pointing this out, citing the presence of Khalistani societies in educational institutions, yet the universities and the authorities seem to turn a blind eye, calling it freedom of thought and expression. This isn’t the wisdom of Galileo or the enlightenment! Or an argument over particle physics. The West's sluggishness in responding to these threats is puzzling and dangerous. It's as if there's a reluctance to acknowledge the gravity of the situation until it's too late. This raises a controversial but important question: does the West, by its inaction, almost invite the menace it later decries? India-Israel Alignment: A Stand Against Barbarism India's support for Israel in its fight against terrorism signifies a broader alignment that transcends the usual West/Islam dichotomy. It's a stand against barbaric acts that threaten the very fabric of civilized society. India, which has its own history of battling terrorism, recognizes the importance of a unified front against such threats. The country which speaks for the second largest muslim population in the world, stands with Israel. India unifies and shows it is not about religion. It is indeed one family – the children of Isaac and Ishmael literally prove that it is one family. This is not just about geopolitics; it's about the values that form the bedrock of any civilized society: respect for human life, the rule of law, and a commitment to peace and stability. India's support for Israel is a strong statement that terrorism, in any form and against any nation, is unacceptable. Conclusion The West's hesitancy in tackling extremist ideologies head-on is not just a legal or political failing; it's a moral one. When countries like India are willing to take a stand, it highlights the shortcomings of Western policies that seem to perpetually be in a state of reactive inertia rather than proactive engagement. The fight against terrorism is a global one. It's high time the West took a leaf out of India's book and acted swiftly and decisively. Otherwise, the question will linger: are we doing enough to protect our societies, or are we, through our inaction, leaving the door ajar for the very threats we later condemn? Asian Voice is published by

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Sir Michael Caine

premiere, "The Ipcress File," he purchased her a mink coat. In many ways, Caine's career was about bringing people to the movies. In the latter part of his career, he became a crucial figure for British director Christopher Nolan, appearing in various sci-fi films, including "Inception" and "Interstellar." Caine served as a bridge for the audience, a trustworthy guide through intricate narratives.

PIA UK flights to resume flights soon Pakistan is set to designate an advisor responsible for formulating a strategy to privatise its financially struggling national airline, as announced by Fawad Hasan Fawad, the Minister of Privatisation in the interim government on Tuesday, the 10th. Back in August, the departing coalition government had declared its intention to privatise Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and contract out the management of operations at three major airports. The decision to privatise PIA, a governmentowned entity, was made in compliance with Pakistan's commitment to establish a framework for dealing with unprofitable

enterprises as part of its fiscal discipline obligations to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). In June, Pakistan successfully secured a $3 billion IMF bailout to prevent a sovereign debt default. The country now aims to resume PIA flights to the United Kingdom within the next three months, following a suspension of services stemming from a counterfeit pilot scandal in 2020.

Met officer fired for assaulting father-in-law A former Metropolitan Police officer has been terminated from his position following a tribunal's revelation that he had engaged in a violent assault on his father-inlaw while in disguise. The incident took place outside his relative's Indian takeaway in February of the previous year, following a dispute with his wife, as reported by The Telegraph. Mohammed Rahman, a member of the safer schools team, who had become a qualified police officer in July 2020, attempted to conceal his identity during the attack by wearing a snood and a hat. However, his

disguise slipped off during the altercation, allowing his victim to recognise him. During the assault, Rahman kicked, punched, and forcefully pushed his father-in-law against the restaurant's shutters. At a subsequent misconduct hearing, Rahman asserted that he had gone to the takeaway to have a "peaceful conversation" and seek assistance with his marital issues. As Rahman's disguise was removed during the attack, his father-in-law could identify him to others who stepped in to break up the altercation.

Rishi Sunak announces DWP Universal Credit reforms Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has confirmed a series of reforms aimed at increasing employment among Universal Credit claimants. He stressed the need for a system overhaul to ensure fairness for taxpayers. Mr. Sunak, accompanied by Tamworth's Conservative candidate, Andy Cooper, in advance of the October 19 by-election, mentioned that individuals with low incomes were receiving support through cost of living payments and other programs like

the Winter Fuel Payment. However, he emphasised the importance of doing more to help people re-enter the workforce and stimulate the UK economy. When asked by the Local Democracy Reporting Service whether he was satisfied with Universal Credit, especially as the number of recipients has reached a new record high of 6.1 million, Mr. Sunak was questioned about any additional plans for the benefit system.

The High Commission of India in London recently organised a welcome event for newly arrived Indian students, with the goal of offering guidance and support as they embark on their journey in the UK. This event was designed to create a "home away from home" for the students. The event, held at India House in London on Tuesday (10), attracted hundreds of students who had earlier participated in a registration drive that included the distribution of free meals by the Akshaya Patra charity. In addition to the physical attendees, several students from various universities across the UK joined the event virtually. During the event, a wide range of topics were covered, including CV writing, insights into job placements, financial

Source: @HCI_London/X

Indian students in the UK TO PUBLISH receive guidance and support RUSHDIE MEMOIR ON NEAR-

Vikram Doraiswami addressing the students

literacy, tips to avoid common scams, and advice on mental health. “It will be very different from being in India, many of you are for the first time entirely on your own and that’s a great opportunity but a measure of responsibility is also important,” said Indian High Commissioner to the UK Vikram Doraiswami, in his address.

British mother sentenced to death for killing husband A British mother, Ramandeep Kaur Mann, has been sentenced to death by hanging in India for her role in the brutal murder of her husband, Sukhjit Singh, in front of their 9-year-old son. The crime, which took place in 2016 during a family holiday in Delhi, involved drugging Sukhjit, striking him with a hammer, and then slashing his throat with a knife. The sole eyewitness to the horrific murder was their son, who testified in court. It was revealed that Ramandeep and her accomplice,

Gurpreet Singh, were involved in a romantic relationship and had planned the murder. Gurpreet brutally assaulted Sukhjit, and Ramandeep ultimately slit his throat. Ramandeep claimed that her husband's intention to sell his property and move to England motivated his family to frame her for the murder. Despite her family's belief that she is innocent and has been framed, the court sentenced Ramandeep to death by hanging. She plans to appeal the sentence.

Leader of grooming gang pleads guilty Mohammed Imran Ali Akhtar, the leader of a notorious Rotherham grooming gang responsible for sexually exploiting approximately 1,400 children over nearly two decades, has pleaded guilty to raping a 13-yearold girl. Akhtar, now 42, supplied the young victim with alcohol and drugs before subjecting her to sexual abuse in the early 2000s. The prosecution stated that he

threatened to abandon her in isolated places if she refused his sexual demands. Akhtar has admitted to two counts of rape and two counts of indecent assault, which occurred between August 2001 and July 2002. He is already serving a 23-year prison sentence following a 2018 conviction related to Operation Stovewood, one of the UK's most extensive investigations into child sexual exploitation.

Mother becomes victim of hit-and-run incident Chilling CCTV footage captures the moment a mother pushing her baby in a stroller across a road becomes the victim of a hitand-run incident. Rajdeep Kaur, aged 37, was traversing North Hyde Lane in Hounslow, west London, when an audacious silver BMW recklessly overtook traffic, striking her and narrowly missing her infant. The force of the impact sent Mrs. Kaur airborne, while her 13-month-old child remained exposed to the danger of oncoming vehicles. The collision left the mother in a life-threatening condition, resulting in injuries to her leg and pelvis, though her baby miraculously escaped

Source: Met police

At the age of 90, after a career that spanned over 170 films, Sir Michael Caine has officially retired from acting. Speaking on BBC Radio 4's "Today," he stated, "I keep saying I'm going to retire, well, I am now." His legacy has left an indelible mark on an entire era, shaping and defining the 1960s, from films like "Zulu" (1964) to "Battle of Britain" (1969) and "Alfie" (1966). Born in 1933, Caine was the working-class boy from Rotherhithe in southeast London who achieved Hollywood success while staying true to his roots. He cherished his mother, Ellen, who, as a cleaner, declined his invitation to the London premiere of "Zulu," fearing she might not fit in. Her presence on the edge of the red carpet during her son's significant moment deeply touched him. For his next

Source: Flickr

Sir Michael Caine announces retirement

in brief

unharmed. The BMW driver callously fled the scene and has yet to come forward. Mrs Kaur, who spent several months in the hospital following the incident, is now immobilised and incapable of independently caring for her child. Crimestoppers has announced a £5,000 reward for information leading to the apprehension of the driver.

FATAL STABBING Renowned Indian-born novelist Salman Rushdie, who endured years in hiding due to threats on his life after Iran issued a call for his murder because of his writing, is set to release a memoir about his 2022 stabbing in New York. This was announced by book publisher Penguin Random House. Rushdie's forthcoming memoir, titled "Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder," is scheduled for publication on April 16, 2024. In a statement released by the publisher, Rushdie expressed, "This was a necessary book for me to write: a way to take charge of what happened, and to answer violence with art."

LUTON AIRPORT SUSPENDS FLIGHTS AFTER CAR PARK FIRE London Luton Airport halted all flights until 3 pm on Wednesday (11) due to a car fire that ignited a larger blaze, resulting in a partial collapse of one of its multi-story car parks. The incident, which was initially reported late on Tuesday (10) evening, did not result in any reported fatalities. Images from the scene depicted massive flames engulfing the structure, situated close to the airport terminal. Initially, the suspension was planned to last until 12 noon.

LCIO HOSTS DINNER FOR COMMUNITY LEADERS The Labour Convention of Indian Organisations (LCIO) organized a dinner gathering that brought together MPs, business leaders, diplomats, and community figures to deliberate on the future of UK-India relations. The event featured keynote addresses from India's High Commissioner, Vikram Doraiswami, along with senior diplomats from Bangladesh and Nepal. Prominent attendees included shadow secretaries of state and ministers, including Angela Rayner MP, the Shadow Deputy Prime Minister. The discussions encompassed various topics, from trade and development to enhancing the UK-India partnership.

PUNJABI BECOMES THE HIGHEST-PAYING LANGUAGE A recent study has identified Punjabi as the highest-paying foreign language in London, with an average salary of £43,415. However, the research conducted by Preply, a language learning platform, revealed that Punjabi does not rank among the top 10 languages in demand by London employers, with only 30 job openings available.On a UK-wide scale, Punjabi secures the sixth position in terms of average salaries, emphasizing the earning potential for Punjabi speakers in the London job market. In contrast, positions requiring Hindi and Italian command average salaries just over £30,000, falling below the UK average.

THIRD EDITION OF BMI UNVEILED Grant Thornton Bharat, in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and with support from the UK government's Department for Business and Trade (DBT), has unveiled the third edition of the 'Britain Meets India' (BMI) 2023 Tracker. This tracker identifies 635 companies incorporated in India, an increase from 618 in 2022. These companies collectively generate a turnover of approximately INR 4,888.4 billion and employ around 666,992 people. A significant majority, or 68%, of these companies are micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with 60% having their parent companies headquartered in London.

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‘Hi’ street.

Unlike the big banks, we’re not closing our branches.

A good way to bank.

If we have a branch in your town or city, we’ll still be there until at least 2026. Big banks: Lloyds, Bank of Scotland/Halifax, NatWest, Barclays, Santander and HSBC. Source: link.co.uk/initiatives/bank-branch-closures. Nationwide Building Society. Head Office: Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN38 1NW.

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AsianVoiceNewsweekly

21 - 27 October 2023

Gandhian philosophy of non-violence is essential today: Rajmohan Gandhi The grandson of Mahatma Gandhi says the Indian diaspora could play a significant role in spreading the ideology of Ahimsa The grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, a renowned historian and journalist Rajmohan Gandhi believes that peacemaking is a tough goal but necessary. In the current scenario of the Israel-Hamas or Russia-Ukraine war the Gandhian philosophy of Ahimsa- or non-violence is absolutely needed and the Indian diaspora should play a significant role in spreading the ideology of Ahimsa. Rajmohan Gandhi was speaking on the topic“future role of the Indian Diaspora" at a special event organised by Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar as well as Anoopam Mission on 15 October 2023, at the Anoopam Mission, Denham. Mr Gandhi said, “Mahatma Gandhi was a member of the diaspora and an NRI. Actually, he was global Gandhi, the one who felt at home wherever he lived. He was always curious about the place, getting involved quickly and making friends. “India is no longer only the home of Indians. The whole world is now the home for the Indian people. It is not that India is pushing them out, but the world is pulling Indians in. Indians have a large-scale dynamic influence in the world. We

all know that the Prime Minister of the UK is of Indian origin. “We often talk about Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam which means ‘The world Is one family’. But whenever it comes to writing as an Indian writer, we choose subjects related to India. Why shouldn’t a writer of Indian origin think of writing about the Church of the UK? We should explore a global horizon,” said Rajmohan Gandhi. He also said that newspapers are crucial for upliftment of society, citing example of Mahatma Gandhi’s London visit. CB Patel, Editor in Chief and Publisher of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar said, “Anoopam Mission is a unique spiritual, cultural and social organisation serving for the upliftment of humanity and as the name itself mentions- it is incomparable. Under Sahebji’s farsightedness, the team of ordinary civilian sadhus is on a mission. Nakarja Family’s dedication, and devotion is unmatched. The volunteers and supporters are gems of the mission. Satishbhai Chatwani is a real diplomat and makes things happen. Including the first Hindu Crematorium, many projects are going on. “Our guest speaker Mr

Rajmohan Gandhi is doing those things which are not easy, not so popular, not giving name and fame. But gives satisfaction because he is on the way to serving humanity,” said CB. President of International Committee of Anoopam Mission Satish Bhai Chatwani said, “Anoopam Mission is the centre for spiritual uplift-

Rajmohan Gandhi answering question L to R: Satishbhai Chatwani, CB Patel, Rajmohan Gandhi, Himat Swami

ment, empowerment, and social services. Sahebji always talked about inclusiveness, his efforts are to bring the community together. Because of his vision, the first ever Hindudedicated Crematorium is going to start for Hindus, Jains and Sikhs.” Mayaben Deepak presented many bhajans which were close to Bapu and Padma Shri Dr Ganesh Devy and Prof Surekha Devi were especially present at this occasion.

Bedbug infestations getting worse Pest control experts addressing bedbug infestations nationwide are reporting their highest workload ever. A company serving Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and London noted that their team was handling up to 25 call-outs per week, a significant increase from "one or two" just a month ago. Another company stated that "nine out of ten" calls between London and Luton were related to homes

infested with bedbugs. There are concerns that these bugs may be spreading via public transport or brought back from holiday destinations like Paris, where outbreaks have been reported in schools, hospitals, and cinemas. Some attribute the issue to tenants frequently moving residences in a volatile rental market, potentially transferring the insects from one flat to another. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, expressed seri-

ous concern after a bedbug sighting on the Tube and has initiated measures such as daily seat disinfection. He has also reached out to Paris for coordinated responses. The local authority in Luton maintains that their increase in bedbug-related calls is smaller than the national average, noting that they received 86 calls pertaining to bedbugs for the year ending in September 2022-23, compared to 81 in 2021-22.

NHS sexual assault reporting system failing Reporting systems for sexual assault and rape within Welsh NHS hospitals are failing, according to nurses. Both current and former nurses have described instances of inappropriate touching and harassment, including breasts being grabbed, hands being placed under dresses, and bottoms being slapped while at work. Some nurses have expressed concern that the number of prosecutions for these offenses in Wales has

significantly declined, effectively decriminalizing workplace abuse. The NHS Confederation for Wales has emphasized its commitment to the protection of patients and staff, while the Welsh government has condemned harassment and sexual vio-

L to R: Bhavisha Tailor, Vaishali Pankit Shah, Usha Gandhi, Prof Surekha Devy, Ashwin Popat, Yogesh Nakarja, Harish Muni, Yogendra Patel, Vinod Nakarja, Himat Swami, Surendra Patel, Rajmohan Gandhi, CB Patel, Dr Satish Patel, Cllr Pankit Shah Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield, Padma Shree Dr Ganesh Devy, Barindra Patel

lence, asserting that they have no place in the NHS. In response to freedom of information requests made to the four Welsh police forces, the Women's Rights Network uncovered reports of 152 alleged sexual assaults and 26 rapes on hospital premises between January 2019 and October 2022. Only four convictions resulted from these allegations, with two forces unable to provide data on convictions.

The event proceedings were compered by Bhavisha Tailor. A vote of thanks was given by Group Editor Mahesh Liloriya. Mr Gandhi also answered questions as asked by the audience. : Subhash Thakrar asked, what was your personal relationship with your grandfather? RMG: When he was 7678, I was around 9–10 years old. My father was the Editor of the Hindustan Times in New Delhi. I went

to prison when Kastur Ba died. Though I had a very short time with him, he always greeted me with great joy. His smile and thump on my back were a sign of affection. He taught us to use things properly and not to waste anything. : Yogesh Nakarja asked, in today's world there is a huge battle against corruption, gender, and economic inequalities. How can we overcome? RMG: There is no readymade formula but the least I can do is to treat every human being equally regardless of background, race, religion, or colour. One must learn to appreciate instead of comparing. : Yogendra bhai Patel asked, in today's world how do you perceive of Ahimsa? RMG: Gandhi said, Ahimsa but he also said for

Satyagraha. If Ahimsa doesn't bring a solution, it should be followed by Ahimsak Satyagrah Sanghrash. If in HamasIsrael tension, if a non-violence resistance was there, there would be a different scenario. It is a wonderful solution. : CA Mayuri Chordia asked, how do we achieve inclusiveness? RMG: All of us can try. See, Indian and Pakistanis cannot meet if they are in India and Pakistan. But here in the UK, we can at least meet, read about each other, and make a progression. : Sharad Raval asked, what if Bapu was alive in these days of social media? RMG: No doubt he would use social media. He was a journalist and died as a journalist. The medium is more important.

Former Patisserie Valerie CFO denies fraud in court The former chief financial officer of the now-defunct bakery chain Patisserie Valerie, Christopher Marsh, aged 49, appeared in court alongside his wife, Louise Marsh, aged 55, for the first time, both denying allegations of fraud. Christopher Marsh, Louise Marsh, Pritesh Mistry, aged 41, and Nileshkumar Lad, aged 50, are collectively accused of

defrauding the company's shareholders and creditors during the period from October 2015 to October 2018. It is alleged that they endangered the business by inflating profits, concealing debts, and presenting false figures in the company's annual reports and public statements. The Serious Fraud Office, which brought the criminal charges, contends

that the company's accounts misrepresented £28 million, while approximately £10 million in debts were concealed. During the hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court, it was revealed that banks were provided with false information about the reserves in Patisserie Holdings Plc's accounts, as well as misleading explanations for checks not being processed.

Bank to pay £1.1m for remote work termination One of the UK's digital "challenger" banks is required to compensate an asthmatic solicitor with over £1 million in damages following her dismissal for not aligning with the organisation's "Starling person" profile. Gulnaz Raja successfully pursued a disability discrimination claim against Starling Bank, where her boss showed a preference for employees who worked late in the office. An employment tribunal in London found that Raja's boss, Matthew Newman, exhibited impatience

Source: GNR Soliciters

Mahesh Liloriya

Gulnaz Raja

toward the 37-year-old solicitor when she fell ill and requested the option to work from home. Consequently, Raja, who

became a solicitor in 2010, was terminated from her position as deputy company secretary, which had an annual salary of £76,000. During the damages hearing, Judge Natasha Joffe ruled that the bank must pay Raja £540,000 for both past and future loss of earnings, along with £15,000 for the emotional distress caused, in addition to interest, totalling around £658,500. The tribunal also mandated an extra payment to cover the tax obligations Raja would face, elevating the total to over £1.1 million.

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Tilda announces limited edition tin Tilda, a renowned brand synonymous with superior quality and long-standing heritage, has announced the launch of their limited-edition 2kg tin in collaboration with British Indian artist, Natasha Kumar. A celebration of food, culture and colours of the subcontinent, Natasha’s design sets twirling dancers, vibrant drummers, and a fanfare of trumpeters against a background of deep pinks, daring blues and elegant Mughal architecture. The drummers symbolise the pulsating heart of Tilda and the design resonates with the rhythm of every day. Tilda has always strived to bring more than just culinary delights to the table. With a rich heritage spanning generations, the brand embodies a commitment to quality, authenticity, and celebrating diverse cultures. According to Natasha Kumar, "This collaboration with Tilda is one of taste, a blend of flavour and art, aimed at making every grain of rice part of a shared cultural experience.’’ Collaboration with Tilda on this exclusive tin has only broadened that celebration

Natasha Kumar

of family and cultural kinship that defines her work. Scheduled to make its debut this October, the limited-edition tin will be available through selected retail stores across the UK. On the launch of this limited-edition tin, Tilda head of marketing Anna Beheshti said, ‘’This collaboration with Natasha Kumar is a perfect blend of tradition and food. We believe that art, music, and culture are key anchors of the diverse cultures we have been celebrating in the UK for more than 50 years, much like how rice has been the heart of innumerable dinner tables. Moreover, this marks the initial step in the exciting journey of crafting a fusion of flavours and art for Tilda. Watch this space for more.’’

21 - 27 October 2023

HH Mahant Swami Maharaj offers best wishes for the book "Eyes of Tomorrow"

Tilda is a multicultural British brand with over 50 years of experience within the rice category. More than 1- in-4 UK households buy at least one Tilda® product a year and over 85% of consumers agree that the brand offers the highest quality products. As the UK’s number one dry rice brand, Tilda is focused on offering the highest quality rice and grain recipes that taste good along with being healthy. The company does not produce its own label products. Tilda offers a wide selection of products and different sizes ranging from Pure Basmati to Jasmine, to other dry rice varieties, Tilda Steamed Rice, Tilda Kids are also available in a wide range of variants. The Tilda range is available across multiple categories in store including the rice aisle, toddler food aisle and world foods aisle. Tilda is committed to honesty, transparency, and a pre-competitive spirit to tackle the climate crisis. As laid out in the Tilda Impact Report 2022, Tilda’s commitments are based around three focus areas: sourcing, manufacturing, and packaging, with support for communities.

GESE: Graded Examinations in Spoken English

Secure English Language Te Tests (SEL LT Ts) approved for applications Ts to UK KVI VI for visas, visa renewals, Britiish Citizenship and Settlement

Prepare with the Trinity GESE Study App, an on-the-go study tool that helps you learn and track the progr o ess of your English language learning.

Scan the e QR code or visit trin nityselt.co.uk to book your test

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21 - 27 October 2023

Vyman Solicitors host insightful network event Vyman Solicitors hosted a successful network event in conjunction with State Bank of India on the 4th of October. As a part of the event, staff members warmly

munity. This was followed by an impactful presentation by the senior litigation lawyer from Vyman Solicitors, Kumaran Sivathillainathan, who dis-

received over 70 special guests who are part of a network formed over 20 years, including clients and strategic partners from various industries. During the event, State Bank of India made an insightful presentation on services and products they offer from mortgage packages, savings accounts and support services for the com-

cussed the way in which to protect your business, your property & yourself and ways to avoid common commercial pitfalls. The event was brilliant and niche. Vyman Solicitors Directing Manager, Anup Vyas calls this event and many others like it an “eye opener with big opportunities for relationship strengthening”.

Hindu Deity installed at RD&E Hospital Chaplaincy Centre A marble idol of Lord Shiva has completed its journey, spanning over two years, numerous hours of craftsmanship, and a four-thousand-mile trip from Jaipur, to finally reach the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital.

Ravindra Nathwani

Members of the local Hindu community initiated this request, believing that it would provide support to both hospital staff and patients. The arrival of the deity was celebrated with a Murti Sthapna, or Deity Investiture Ceremony, presided over by Panditjee Anirudh Bhatt, a priest from Bristol. The University of Exeter's Hindu Chaplain, Ravindra Nathwani, who has been a resident of Exeter for

over 40 years, played a vital role in facilitating this initiative in collaboration with the NHS. Ravi described the day “I don’t have words to express how I felt when we had our murti (deity) set in front of us, in the presence of all those who took time off to be present”. Following the Murti Sthapna on Monday, October 14th, the Chaplaincy Centre at RD&E has initiated regular weekly prayers led by Ravi Nathwani. This addition complements the existing services available for Christian, Muslim, and Buddhist patients, visitors, and hospital staff. Mr Nathwani can be reached at 07976 561140

Indian Heritage Centre UK inaugurated in Cardiff The Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) UK was officially opened in Cardiff with a soft launch at the Llanishen Baptist Church Hall last week, according to an official statement. Tripti Megeri, the founder and CEO of IHC, along with co-founder Pradeep Jois, warmly welcomed the attendees. The guest at the event was Captain Raj Aggarwal, India's honorary consul in Wales. In his speech, he

emphasised the importance of organisations like IHC in connecting with the community at the grassroots level. The statement emphasised that IHC's objectives include promoting social cohesion and inclusion by addressing isolation and social exclusion, nurturing cultural awareness at the grassroots level, and supporting the anti-racist Wales action plan of the Welsh government.

Rickshaw Run 2023 to raise money for underprivileged children On Sunday, October 1st, 2023, the picturesque grounds of Dharma Bhakti Manor Shree Swaminarayan

funds and awareness for SEWA UK's noble project to refurbish a dental unit in Arogyadham, Chitrakoot,

Temple in Stanmore witnessed the official launch of SEWA UK – Rickshaw Run 2023, an initiative brimming with energy and excitement. The primary goal of this daring adventure is to raise over £500,000 for underprivileged children, making a substantial impact in their lives. A total of 108 self-funded participants, driven by a shared spirit of philanthropy and adventure, will embark on an extraordinary journey, driving rickshaws from Chitrakoot to Kutch, covering a distance of over 2000 kilometres. This remarkable expedition is scheduled to take place from December 10th to December 23rd, 2023, spanning 12 days of adventure and giving. The Rickshaw Run will traverse through four states of India, raising crucial

India. The refurbished dental unit in Chitrakoot will offer free or highly affordable cleft palate surgeries, with the potential to impact the lives of over 500 villages in the vicinity. Every penny raised during the Rickshaw Run 2023 will be channelled directly into this humanitarian cause, providing countless individuals with the precious gift of a voice and a brighter future. With the generous support of participants, sponsors, and well-wishers, SEWA UK aims to create a lasting impact, bringing smiles, hope, and brighter futures to underprivileged children and communities in Chitrakoot and beyond. For more information on SEWA UK – Rickshaw Run 2023 and how you can support this noble cause, please visit www.sewauk.org

Family-friendly events unveiled at INDIKA Festival 2023 From 1st - 12th November, Indika 2023 will take over Liverpool in a celebration of Indian music, dance, arts, discussion and culture.

ditions, to be immersed in unique experiences, and to learn more about the festival of Diwali. The festival is open and accessible to all,

The Forest Dream by Luke Waddington

With something suitable for all ages to enjoy, events aimed specifically at younger audiences and families are included in this year's lineup. From theatrical danceproductions to Diwaliinspired food and drink from Bundobust, Indika has something for everyone. The festival offers an invaluable opportunity for children and families to discover new cultures and tra-

and provides a glimmering, colourful insight into Indian arts and culture; an opportunity not to be missed. In collaboration with the Apsaras Arts Dance Company (Singapore), Indika will feature a captivating dance-theatre production, Sita's Magical Forest, with two performances during half-term at The Unity Theatre, on Thursday 2nd November.

Reviews are a new form of advertisement! Rohit Vadhwana

f late, I have been receiving WhatsApp messages from various unknown numbers asking me to earn money from home. They want me to give a fivestar rating to the products they would send me through links. Once I have done my rating, I have to send them screenshots as proof. Once done, they would pay me Rs 150! I had to block the numbers one after another since they were too persistent to understand NOT INTERESTED as a reply. I wonder if this is a reality or any other scam. If it is really a business, what's the credibility of reviews on Google, Amazon or any other platform for that matter? How would we assess the correctness of reviews online? While purchasing online products, if not already familiar with them, a customer has mainly two choices to perceive how good it will be. One is of course the description written by sellers themselves. Although it is written with a clear intention to promote sales of their own products, it gives you very authentic information. Discounting for false claims by the sellers, such descriptions mostly serve as the first authentic source of information. The second useful detail comes from the product reviews given by third parties, mainly customers who have purchased and used them. They give stars and reviews on platforms. Any new customer would go by a number of 5-star ratings and also overall stars received by the product. I am certainly not naive to believe that earlier there were no fake reviews, but now if we have reached a stage where unknown people are contacting you to write reviews for a product you have never used or perhaps not even heard of, what is the authenticity of any review? Sales and marketing are at an aggressive stage where genuineness and credibility hardly matter to many companies. they are willing to increase sales in any possible way. But I would say that paid reviews are the worst form of misleading any customer. Any kind of advertising is still better because in that case, we all know it's only an advertisement, and therefore there would be exaggeration. But beware, now even reviews may be advertisements. And it's more misleading than paid publicity or product adverts. However, hopefully, it has still not reached a level where fake reviews outnumber genuine ones, but next time you surf online for shopping and read reviews, be mindful that they may be just another advertisement by the seller. (Expressed opinions are personal)

Lord Ram's 'Padukas' tour the UK In anticipation of the completion of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir, which is scheduled for 2024, the sacred footprints (padukas) of Lord Ram, set to be enshrined at the temple upon its inauguration, are currently on a tour across the UK, drawing thousands of devotees who seek their auspicious blessings. Recently, the padukas were warmly received at the Gita Bhavan Hindu temple in Manchester with a vibrant ceremonial procession, accompanied by sacred oblations (abhishekam), devotional offerings (archana), devotional songs (bhajans), and ritualistic worship (aarti).

The event in Manchester was organised by the Greater Manchester Malayalee Hindu Community (GMMHC) and was eagerly anticipated in the days leading up to it. The tour has already covered multiple cities in the UK and is slated to make several more stops in the upcoming days before returning to Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh for their formal installation (pratishtha) in January of the following year.

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21 - 27 October 2023

High Commission of India will make all the efforts to reach out to the community: Minister of Coordination NCGO UK organised a community interaction with Deepak Chaudhary, Minister of Coordination, High Commission of India National Council of Gujarati Organisations (NCGO) UK organised a community interaction with the High Commission of India. Deepak Chaudhary, Minister of Coordination, High Commission of India interacted with community members at the Sangat Advice Centre, Harrow on 6 October 2023. He assured that the High Commission will make all the efforts to reach out to the community and answered questions asked.

: Can an OCI holder cross any land border in India? Mr Chaudhary: OCI provides only two things less than the citizenship of India. OCI is not to be misconstrued as 'dual citizenship'. OCI does not confer political rights. If there is any doubt or you want to know the rights of an OCI card holder, please go through the write-up available on the website of HCI London.

: What if an applicant has a middle name on their UK birth certificate but not on their British Passport? Mr Chaudhary: OCI cards cannot be given if there is any difference in the multiple related documents. Like Name, Middle name, address etc. In India, the rule about the name is very clear. Retention of the citizenship certificate will be required for the OCI card. India doesn't allow dual citizenship. One can apply for retention and attach the receipt along with the OCI application.

From Left to Right: Jayant Tanna, Kala Patel, Sanjay Odedra, Jitubhai Patel, Vimalji Odedra, Deepak Chaudhary- HCI, Krishna Pujara, CB Patel, Sumant Rai Desai, Deepak Patel, Gargi Patel, Ramesh Odedra, Kantibhai Nagda.

: In the OCI application if the original birth certificate is lost, can a photocopy be submitted if attested by the applicant? Mr Chaudhary: No copy will be accepted. If it is a second time issued copy by the authority, then only it is acceptable.

: In the case of an OCI holder, when a new British passport is issued, is the OCI certificate transferred to the new passport digitally once the application is made to the HCI? Mr Chaudhary: New passport, old passport, OCI along with all information, updates and FAQs are on the website. We have put the maximum information there. It may be a slightly difficult process, but it is necessary as thousands of applications are coming daily. People may make mistakes, so filters are necessary. Online Visas are given in 72 hours. If it is not an emergency, please apply with a good margin. In the case of Medical or any other emer-

Artistic creations from Gujarat to be appreciated at Brent Council’s Willesden Gallery The exhibition has been organised from 9-22 October, 11am-7pm at the Willesden Gallery featuring the artworks of international artists. This Exhibition visitors with artist Neelu Patel event is hosttion will include work by ed by the "Mukhote Creative artists from Gujarat, as well Art Foundation" from as from various other parts Ahmedabad and the G.J. of India. Bharti Shah, Bharti Patel Charitable Trust, with Parikh, Vinod Raval support of Kokilaben G.J. (Kalaguru), Shruti Soni, Patel and renowned artist Govind Kumar Jha, from Gujarat, Neelu Patel. Hemantkumar S. Pandya, The exhibition has a disGirish Patel and Jinal play of various Indian art Savaliya are some of the key forms, such as Neelu Patel's names. 'Meshi Art,' which is created The purpose of estabfrom the paste of old newslishing the Mukhote papers. It will also feature Creative Art Foundation is artworks from different to encourage artists from artists of various age groups, various fields, including including young artist Krisha ancient, contemporary, and Shah and adult artist modern art, as well as Kokilaben Patel. indigenous and traditional Furthermore, this exhibiart.

gency, it is better to go for a visa through the embassy. Some other questions were: Can the High Commission of India in London issue a certificate to

visit the new Sansad Bhavan in India? And what if the spouse of an OCI holder is denied OCI after her husband’s death? There are many cases like that. Mr

Chaudhary assured to look into the matter. In his closing remarks, he said, “It is a matter of happiness and privilege to join this initiative. It is a well-known fact how much the Gujarati community has achieved. India is very proud of that. NCGO has a complete range of representation of communities. The high commission will make every possible effort within its resources.” The welcome speech was given by NCGO President Vimalji bhai Odedara. He said network-

ing with the diaspora is very important. We must work hand in hand with the same energy. CB Patel, Editor-inChief/Publisher of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar and Patron of NCGO said that this umbrella body is working for the community. Coordination among community organisations and the authorities is done very responsibly. It is the largest group of Gujarati organisations outside India. Sangat Advice Centre is doing remarkable work to serve humanity.

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21 - 27 October 2023

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

Is Israel losing its’ invincibility? Israel, a comparatively tiny nation, born in the aftermath of WW2, is a fairly resilient nation. It has to be when surrounded by Islamic nations, mostly hostile to Israel. Many feel it was the wrong location to establish Israel but on historical ground, it is the right place but at the wrong time! After all, Judaism existed there long before Christianity and Islam became dominant religion. There is more than enough land, and space on Mother Earth to co-exist in peace and harmony. But human greed, personal ambition and a conquering desire to be master of the land as far as eyes could see is the cause of every conflict and misery suffered by the human race! As Gandhiji famously said, “There is more than enough for everyone’s need but not enough for everyone’s greed!” Religion has added an extra burden and made the situation more volatile! Every human being would like to have a country they could call their homeland and Palestinians are no exception. So there will be no peace in the area unless Israel facilitates the creation of Palestine. But Israel’s reluctance is understandable, as in the past most Islamic nations wanted to wipe out Israel from the Middle East map. This was a popular slogan whenever President Nasser attacked Israel in his speech. He was an accomplished orator and the crowd loved him. Most Israeli defence experts thought the high barbed fence, Watch Tower and solid rock and cement underground barrier to stop tunnels between Israel and Gaza was enough protection. But Hamas has proved them wrong. Most observers feel that this was a wrong move on the part of Hamas, as this will give Israel a perfect opportunity, without much opposition, to annex Gaza and make it part of Israel, with new settlements springing up on Palestinian land vacated by the local population. It is time for the West to bar fiduciaries, physically get involved and find a solution, in cooperation with leading regional nations like Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Iran, to preserve peace and protect Israel as well as give Palestinians a homeland, no matter how small or inconvenient it may be. That will be on my New Year’s wish list! Perhaps a miracle may happen and my wish granted, bringing peace and prosperity to the region.

Thank you for inviting me to the special event organised by Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice at the Anoopam Mission for the lecture by Rajmohan Gandhi, the grandson of Mahatma Gandhi and the renowned historian journalist and peacebuilder. I found his discourse fascinating and learned a lot about Gandhi Bapu’s struggle for independence for India, his time in prison, and the interaction of Gandhi Bapu with Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. It was interesting to note that all three of them were lawyers who had all come to England to study law – what an achievement for an Indian at the beginning of the 19th century! The question and answer part of the event raised some fascinating questions with equally interesting answers, giving an insight into Gandhi Bapu’s interaction with his grandchildren including their visits to see their grandfather while in prison. The event was held in the wonderful hall of Anoopam Mission, and there was an Arti at the end of the programme that was very soothing in a tranquil environment. I was expecting a light dinner following the lecture as per the details specified in the invite. That was an understatement, to say the least, as we were served a full meal, including samosa, puris, shrikhand, two shaaks, kadi and bhat among other items. It was all wonderfully cooked. I am not normally a fan of paneer shaak but it was so tasty that I finished it all off and remember telling my wife how delicious it was when I came home! I would really like to thank all the volunteers including the kitchen personnel and those who served the food for making this event incredibly memorable. I would encourage Gujarat Samachar/Asian Voice and its staff to continue hosting such events to encourage the Indian community to meet, discuss and mingle and increase the knowledge base of the Indian diaspora. Kaushik Desai Finchley-North London

Kaushik Desai, a Chartered Accountant and a Chartered Tax Advisor, is a principal in Chown Dewhurst LLP a firm of UK and International tax advisors who particularity specialise in tax planning including Inheritance tax and setting up of trusts. You can reach out to him on: 07540 691 538

Indian Railways need to reform It is unfortunate to note that frequent train accidents have blurred the image of the Indian Railways [IR] in the eyes of the world. The whole episode has raised a lot of serious questions. Does the claim of calling IR the world’s biggest entity make sense? Isn’t it possible to place a speed restriction at the railway stations, especially in the backdrop of the huge crowds coming in? Why does the IR not pay attention to constructing even the basic facilities like foot over-bridges and service roads? Don’t we have the required technology and funds to improve passenger safety and strengthen the rail infrastructure? Finally, whoever is found culpable for the train accidents should be taken to task. And the Centre should not brush aside and instead must concentrate on improving the overall safety of the train commuters as soon as possible.

Bhupendra M. Gandhi P. Senthil Saravana Durai

The war should stop The ongoing war between Israel and Palestine seems unstoppable. The continuous bombing in these two cities needs to stop. While the two million people of Gaza are witnessing the worst time of their lives, the UN remains silent. It has failed to handle the situation and seems toothless. European countries, the UK, and the US are also not showing any concern to stop these attacks. The international community should come forward and resolve the conflict between these two countries as soon as possible. It is also essential to urgently release financial aid and humanitarian support for the people injured in the airstrikes. Jubel D'Cruz

Don't start Quit India movement India is a powerhouse of talent and potential. But it is unfortunate that talent developed in the country is migrating to other nations and contributing to other economies. Every year many technology graduates not only from premier institutes but institutions across the nation migrate to other countries for better career opportunities causing brain drain. They are EngiNEAR yet so far. The government should create a conducive environment and opportunities so that this talent realises their responsibility & gratitude towards the nation which has made huge investments in their education and contribute back to the nation’s growth. T.S.Karthk

KAPIL’S

A day to honour Gandhi

Young lawyer promotes mental health in Asian community A trainee lawyer has launched an innovative new mental health campaign and is calling on others from his community to get involved. Mental health campaigner Mohammed Sbahuddin Rafiuddin, 32, from Watford, is drawing on a decade of his own mental health struggles to inspire global change so that everyone has the right to be protected from known harms to mental health and to access quality and affordable care. “Mohammed’s Mental Health Campaign” has a mission to have sound mental health enshrined as an Article in the Human Rights Act in the same way as a right to privacy or right to a fair trial is. He hopes that by encouraging people to speak about their experiences stigmas around mental health can be reduced. Mohammed's mission particularly focuses on providing awareness and education to Asian, African, and ethnic minority communities. In these communities, there is a far heavier stigma around mental health and mental illness compared to those outside of these communities. The campaign has a three-step mental health mission: empowerment, improved care, education, and awareness. He hopes this will lead to a long-term five-point mental health action plan which includes: the right to sound mental health for all, increased funding for mental health research, enhanced funding for mental health services, more public health campaigns to provide awareness into mental health illnesses and symptoms, and the reduction of stigma in all communities.

Kapil Dudakia

KHICHADI

Hindus in Danger in the UK When Hamas terrorists attacked Israel last week, it was clear to me that there would be serious ramifications for several communities in the UK. In anticipation I wrote to the Rt Hon Suella Braverman MP, our Home Secretary, to alert her to the potential of some serious breaches of the peace, and threat to life and limb. Below is the extract of that letter: Dear Suella, In light of recent developments both in Canada and Israel, I take this opportunity to write to you to voice my grave concern for the safety and security of the Hindu and Indic communities in the UK. We are grateful to PM Sunak who has explicitly made it clear that we as a nation stand with Israel. The Indian diaspora share the very same sentiments. Couple this with a similar statement from PM Modi who has also come out very forcefully in favour of Israel. The consequences of these statements have the potential of affecting the Hindu and Indic communities directly by making them easy targets. We have seen in the recent past that Islamists and Khalistanis have focussed their attacks on our community. For example, the Islamist attacks on Hindus in Leicester and Birmingham. We have also seen Islamists and Khalistanis who have marched on the High Commission of India which has often resulted in violence and the venting of hate speeches. There is now a real fear within the community that agents of these two factions in the UK may well target not just the Jewish community, but also the Hindu and Indic communities. May I request that your office takes preemptive action and puts in place arrangements to protect our community. In particular: a. Alert all police forces of their duty under the law to ensure the security and safety of all citizens. In particular Hindus and Indic communities who may well come under increased harassment, bullying and violent attacks. b. To take pre-emptive action to ensure that no protesters are allowed anywhere near any place of worship. Mandirs must be protected and the mistakes in policing in Leicester and Birmingham should not be repeated. c. Organise an emergency fund to equipment every Hindu and Indic place of worship and community centre with the latest CCTV technology that operates 24//7/365. d. Alert every educational institution in the country of the heightened threat posed to Hindu and Indic students. e. Ensure every local authority is reminded of their duty of care towards all citizens. f. Remind all media, including social media, of their duty of care towards the safety and security of all their users, in particular Hindu and Indic communities. The above gives a flavour of what the minimum action points should be. I am sure your department will be able to deliver an even more comprehensive list. I am of the belief that the situation internationally is inclined to get worse before it gets better. And this may well take much longer than anticipated. We have already seen supporters of Khalistan and Palestine come out on our streets to voice their hatred. Some even rejoice in the injury or fatality to those they consider to be their enemies. I hope you take proactive action immediately. Let there not be a Hindu fatality before something positive is done to protect the community and put behind bars those wish to break our laws. Thisweek we have entered the period of Hindu festivals beginning with Navaratri, which will be followed quickly by Diwali. This is the time when there are much larger congregation of peoplewho comes together to rejoicetheir faith and their cultural heritage. In the past we have seen attacks from vested people. This year, we have the added threat of Islamists who may well vent their frustrations not only on the Jewish community, but also the Hindu and Indic communities. We are seen to be supportive of our Jewish friends, and that makes us easy targets. So to every Hindu and Indic Mandir and community place, and their leadership, please be warned of this threat level. Ensure that all your standard operating procedures considerthe increased threat levels. Make sure if you have CCTV, that it is operational 24/7 and recording is set for continuous. Make sure you have all emergency numbers readily available, and your local Police are fully aware of the programme of events over the next few months. Record every incident that occurs, either to the venue, or to the people attending – no matter how small it might be. Accurate record keeping allows the Police a better chance to arrest the miscreants. In short, don’t let your guard down. Put the hard work in now so that everyone may enjoy the full extent of our beautiful festivals. Here’s wishing all of you,a Subh Navaratri.

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11 21 - 27 October 2023

Ketan Dattani

Embracing Sustainable Traditional Apparel with Environmentally Friendly Materials

outh Asia has a rich and diverse textile heritage that spans centuries. From intricate handwoven fabrics to vibrant natural dyes, traditional apparel and textiles have always been known for their beauty and craftsmanship. However, in today's world, sustainability has become a critical consideration in the fashion industry. As consumers increasingly seek environmentally friendly options, sustainable Indian clothing materials are gaining popularity for their blend of tradition and environmental consciousness. Organic cotton is at the forefront of sustainable Indian clothing materials. India is one of the world's largest producers of organic cotton, a crop grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilisers. By choosing organic cotton, consumers support a more environmentally friendly farming method that promotes soil health and reduces water pollution. Khadi, a hand-spun and handwoven fabric, holds a special place in India's history. Made famous by Mahatma Gandhi during the struggle for independence, khadi remains sustainable to this day. It requires minimal energy and water compared to machine-made textiles and supports local artisans and rural employment. Ahimsa silk, also known as peace silk or non-violent silk, stands out as a cruelty-free alternative to conventional silk. The production process allows silkworms to complete their life cycle naturally without killing them. India produces several varieties of ahimsa silk, including Tussar silk, Eri silk, and Muga silk, which are prized for their quality and ethical production methods. Hemp, a rapidly growing and low-impact crop, is becoming a popular choice for sustainable Indian clothing materials. Hemp textiles require minimal water and pesticides, making them environmentally friendly and durable. Hemp can be blended with other fibres to create a wide range of clothing items. This is necessary for the production of clean clothing. Bamboo fabric is known for its softness, breathability, and biodegradability. Bamboo grows quickly and requires minimal water and pesticides. As a sustainable textile, it is comfortable and suitable for various weather conditions. India has a rich tradition of using natural dyes made from plants, roots, and minerals. These dyes are not only environmentally friendly but also produce vibrant and enduring colours. Supporting clothing made with natural dyes helps preserve traditional craftsmanship and reduces the use of harmful synthetic dyes. Handcrafted Techniques - Preserving Artisanal Skills Hand block printing and Ajrakh printing are two artisanal techniques deeply rooted in India's textile heritage. Handblock printing involves using natural dyes and hand-carved wooden blocks to create intricate patterns. Ajrakh printing, hailing from Gujarat, employs similar methods with a focus on geometric designs. Supporting artisans who practice these techniques helps sustain traditional craftsmanship and promotes sustainable practices. Zero-Waste Design - Minimising Environmental Impact Zero-waste fashion practices are gaining traction in India. Designers are creating patterns that minimise fabric waste during production, reducing the environmental impact of clothing manufacturing. Fair Trade and Ethical Practices - Supporting Workers and Communities Sustainable Indian clothing often comes from brands that follow fair trade and ethical practices. These brands ensure that workers are paid fair wages and work in safe conditions, contributing to social and environmental sustainability. As the fashion industry faces increasing scrutiny for its environmental and ethical practices, sustainable Indian clothing materials offer a compelling solution that combines cultural heritage with environmental friendliness. By choosing textiles like organic cotton, khadi, and ahimsa silk, and supporting artisans who use traditional techniques and natural dyes, consumers can embrace sustainable fashion while preserving India's rich textile traditions. Moreover, these choices contribute to a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible clothing industry.

Flintoff awarded £9m for Top Gear crash Former Top Gear host, Freddie Flintoff, reached a multimillion-pound settlement with the BBC after his near-fatal car crash during filming. In December of the previous year, the exEngland cricketer suffered severe facial injuries and broken ribs when the three-wheel open-top Morgan Super 3 he was driving at 130mph overturned in freezing conditions at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey. Following the crash, BBC Studios issued a "sincere apology" to Flintoff. The Sun reported that the settlement amount was £9 million, believed to cover two years of lost earnings since the incident. Both parties are content with the arrangement and plan to collaborate again. In March, the BBC had stated that it would be inappropriate to resume production of the series

Freddie Flintoff

after an internal investigation. Flintoff took on the role of presenting Top Gear in 2019 and also featured on Sky's sports panel show, A League Of Their Own. The decisions regarding future episodes of Top Gear will be made "in due course in conjunction with BBC content." Flintoff is agreat friend to the ABPL Group and CB Patel and has previously graced the AAAawards as a chief guest.

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Sunak pledges "unqualified support" for Israel, ignores Gaza

NO PLACE FOR HATE

Zaki Cooper

worry that people are using the war in Israel to stir up hatred between communities in the UK. We have already seen a worrying rise in antisemitic incidents, an increase of as much as five-fold from previous levels. Some of the demonstrators in central London have and elsewhere have shown support for Hamas and behaved in a menacing and threatening way. This is despicable and shocking in equal measure. Hamas are a terrorist organisation, who have carried out the most appalling crimes against people in Israel, including women, children and babies. Alongside a sharp rise in antisemitism, there has also been a spike in Islamophobia, and we should be alive to that too. Whenever there is any activity which incites racial or religious hatred, the

police should make arrests and prosecutions should follow. We need a zerotolerance approach to such behaviour.” Deeply worrying time Mayor Sadiq Khan told Asian Voice, “With the Met Dr Deesha Chadha

Sadiq Khan

reporting an increase in hate crime, thousands of extra officers will be on patrol this weekend providing support and reassurance for communities. No one should have to feel scared or vulnerable because of the community they belong to. There will also be a significant police presence at marches and protests planned for the weekend. The right to protest is an integral part of our democracy, but the Met has been clear – anyone who breaks the law and incites violence or hatred will have action taken against them. I know this is an extremely anxious time for Jewish and Muslim Londoners. There is no place in London for hatred. The Met police have stepped up patrols, with an increased police presence to deter any further acts of either antisemitism or Islamophobia. There is no place for hate crime of any kind in London. This weekend, extra police officers are on patrol providing support and reassurance for communities. This is a deeply worrying time for many in London’s Jewish & Muslim communities. Let me be very clear on this: any perpetrators of antisemitic or Islamophobic abuse will be brought to justice.” “The suffering and loss of innocent life in both Israel and Gaza is truly heart-breaking and my thoughts are with all those impacted. It’s vital that we don’t allow events overseas to spill over onto our streets in London and I want to reassure both the Jewish community and the Muslim community that we will take a zero-tolerance approach to any Islamophobia or antisemitism. “I’m continuing to work closely with the police and community leaders to ensure our communities feel safe and are safe, as they go about their daily lives. Our city is united against all forms of hate, and we will continue to do all we can to support faith leaders and communities as we build a safer London for all.” Resilience training for communities Dr Deesha Chadha, CoChair of the London Faith

and Belief Sector Panel, said, “I strongly encourage anyone who represents their place of worship to register for this free training which provides you with all the tools and necessary guidance to keep your places of worship safe, secure and prepared for emergencies. Resilience training for communities is becoming ever more important as communities seek to respond to a myriad of potential risks and hazards. I especially recommend this training to representatives from the Dharmic faith traditions – who do not always take up such opportunities – as it is relevant, up-to-date, delivered by experts and could make a significant, tangible difference to their communities.” Met Police reiterated that there is no place for hate crime in London. “We're here and ready to help anyone who has been affected by someone else's prejudice, ignorance or violence. Report hate crime to us directly and officers will take action. We are supporting London's communities affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. There has been a rise in hate crimes reported to us and we are taking action. There is #NoPlaceForHate in London. Hate crime comes in many different forms and strikes at the heart of communities. With your help, we can tackle those responsible for hate crimes and keep our communities safe. We're here and ready to help anyone who has been affected by someone else's prejudice, ignorance or violence.” Victims of hate crimes should not suffer in silence Rajnish Kashyap, General Secretary/Director of Hindu Council UK told Asian Voice, “During these challenging times, we must ensure that the turmoil in the Middle East does not negatively impact our own communities here. We are profoundly saddened by the loss of innocent lives, a tragedy that cannot be justified, regardless of which side it affects. We have seen over the weekend that numerous demonstrations and protests have already occurred. We are also conscious of concerns regarding the display of flags and symbols that might make people feel threatened. It is essential to remember that every citizen

has the right to hold and express their views within the bounds of the law. We all share a common goal of living harmoniously as fellow citizens in the UK, and this goal is not incompatible with the civil expression of one's opinions on the conflict. Our society should have no room for hatred, and those who have been victims of hate crimes should not suffer in silence. We encourage any victims, members of the public, or anyone feeling vulnerable to report such incidents to the police. The Hindu Council UK stands in solidarity with the community in promoting peace, understanding, and unity during these challenging times. "There is concern within the community about the possibility of antiSikh hate crimes in the UK due to heightened xenophobia right now. On Sunday two hate crime attacks on Sikhs were reported in the USA, in New York and California respectively.” The Hindu Forum of Britain said that they stand together with NHFUK in this hour of extreme sadness. “We prayed together to convey our sincere condolences to the families of all brutally murdered and those taken hostages. Solace was found in listening to Sholka from Bhagvad Geeta from Acharya ji, priests and spiritual heads of Hindu organisations. We pray for the safe return of Hostages & stand with family members to give them strength.” Sikh Press Association told the newsweekly, "It is important for Sikhs for it to be recognised, this hate does not just come from white supremacist types.” Likelihood of intergenerational trauma response Rima Sidpara, Director, Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor said, “There will be mixed emotions ranging from fear, shame, guilt, grief and anger. Fear for themselves their loved ones and their communities here and abroad. Hate crimes do increase both online and inperson resulting in feeling a lack of sense of safety which can result in experiencing anxiety symptoms, panic attacks and avoidance behaviours- avoiding going out and isolating. There is likely to be intergenerational trauma responses when wars erupt again resulting in reactions such as fight, flight and freeze responses. Psychoeducation can be really helpful during traumatic times, to help understand our emotional and behavioural reactions and normalise them.”

Rishi Sunak has expressed unwavering UK support for Israel, emphasising it as a long-term commitment in a detailed statement marking one week since Hamas militants killed 1,300 Israeli civilians and soldiers, taking over 150 people hostage.

audible. Woman arrested in Brighton for supporting Hamas A 22-year-old woman in England has been arrested on suspicion of delivering a speech expressing support for Hamas, despite laws

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Continued from page 1

Security measures, including police patrols, have been heightened, with specific attention to addressing concerns at Jewish schools in north London. This increase in hate crimes occurs as a proPalestinian protest is anticipated in London, with the Home Secretary warning of firm action against supporters of Hamas. Asian Voice reached out to members of the community and faith organisations, all of whom have expressed fear but also shown resilience to safeguard communities from hate crimes. Met Police and London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan have clearly stated that there’s no room for hate crime. 1,000 police Over officers were deployed in London as demonstrators marched from the BBC's New Broadcasting House to Downing Street. The Metropolitan Police reported 15 arrests for various offences, including assaults on emergency workers and public fireworks. This protest occurred a week after an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel. Demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and supportive signs while chanting during the march. Protesters were also heard chanting slogans, including "Rishi Sunak, shame on you" and "from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free." Despicable and shocking Zaki Cooper, Co-Chair of BIJA, said: “There is a real

Pro-Palestine protest in London

However, the Prime Minister's remarks do not address the plight of innocent Palestinians trapped in Gaza or the need for their safe evacuation. These comments come amidst escalating political tensions in the UK regarding how to respond to Israel's retaliatory airstrikes on Gaza and its evacuation orders for over 1 million Palestinians. Some senior Labour figures believe the Conservatives are intentionally portraying them as less supportive of Israel and insinuating that those on the left of the party are sympathetic to Hamas and antisemitic due to their pro-Palestinian stance. Thousands gather for proPalestinian demonstration While the leaders of the country tried to figure out their stance in the whole unfortunate ordeal, thousands of people gathered for pro-Palestinian demonstrations in London and various other UK cities on 14 October. Protesters marched through central London, with over 1,000 officers providing security. Similar demonstrations occurred in Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and other UK cities. In London, demonstrators assembled near the headquarters of BBC News before holding an afternoon rally near Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Downing Street residence. Protesters from the Palestine Action group threw red paint on parts of the building in central London's Portland Place, where the rally began. The BBC has faced criticism from both supporters of Israel and the Palestinians. Many participants displayed Palestinian flags and held placards with slogans like "Freedom for Palestine," "End the massacre," and "Sanctions for Israel." Chants of "Rishi Sunak, shame on you" were

prohibiting explicit endorsement of banned organisations, as announced by the local police. The woman was taken into custody under the Terrorism Act on Thursday (12) following an investigation into a speech delivered at a protest in Brighton on Sunday (8), according to the police. Under British law, individuals associated with Hamas or those found guilty of soliciting support for the group can face imprisonment of up to 14 years. A former commissioner for countering extremism at the Home Office has raised concerns about the leniency of British laws that allow Hamas supporters to glorify terrorism. Sara Khan has expressed reservations about the existing legislation, which she believes permits the spread of what she termed "hateful extremism." Her concerns come in the wake of Home Secretary Suella Braverman's call for a "zero tolerance" approach to antisemitism following the Hamas attack on Israel. Humza Yousaf's Mother-inlaw: "Where's Humanity?" Scotland's First Minister, Humza Yousaf, shared a video online on Friday (13) where his British mother-in-law in Gaza expressed her distress over Israel's evacuation order affecting over one million people in the northern part of the Palestinian enclave. In the recording, Elizabeth al-Nakla, a UK citizen who was visiting relatives in Gaza revealed that people from Gaza City in the northern Gaza Strip were relocating southward following Israel's directive for Palestinians to vacate the besieged enclave's largest city. “One million people — no food, no water, and still they are bombing them as they leave. Where are we going to put them?” Nakla said.

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The inspiring stories of pioneering women in medicine Anusha Singh Kavitha Rao is an author and journalist based in London. She has written three books and is working on her fourth. Her latest, "Lady Doctors: The Untold Stories of India's First Women in Medicine" delves into the extraordinary journeys of India's first female physicians, spanning from the 1860s to the 1930s. The narratives of these six remarkable women are marked by their relentless battles against formidable challenges, including colonialism, casteism, patriarchy, and resistance from society. In an interview with Asian Voice, she talks about “Lady Doctors”, the importance of highlighting the women in history and the increased relevance of the book in current times. f you could start by telling us more about your book and its relevance today? “Lady Doctors” narrates the story of women facing exclusion from science and medicine and is a universal tale. This struggle occurred worldwide, with women encountering barriers in accessing medical education, facing harassment, and having their achievements overshadowed by men. The narrative of women's exclusion from the field of science is a story that transcends borders. Many people often wonder why they should read a book about Indian women in the 1860s, thinking it has no relevance to them. However, such attitudes still persist, even in the United Kingdom. Not long ago, a major investigative report by The Times revealed incidents of female surgeons being subjected to harassment and abuse by their male counterparts, including residents. This controversy highlights that, despite improvements, these issues continue to exist. hat inspired you to write about the women of medicine? The inspiration came while I was doing some research on Google and a doodle of one of the women featured in this book appeared. It was Rukhmabai and I wondered why had I not heard about this woman before. Why is she not in textbooks or museums or has roads named after her because she had such an incredible story. Then I dug in, found some lesser-known ones like Mary Poonen Lukose and Haimabati Sen and decided

Kavitha Rao

that I wanted to write about this even though I don't really have any experience with the medical profession. I thought it made for a very good story. mong all the remarkable women featured in your book, were there any particular stories that resonated with you on a personal level and left a lasting impact?

in West Bengal and across India. She found a way to become a doctor despite having no formal education. hat is your vision for how readers should perceive the message of your book? I may not have an incredibly grand vision, but one of the motivations behind writing this book was to address a recurring issue I've noticed. The conversation often revolves around how men are solely responsible for all the groundbreaking inventions. Especially among young men, there's a recurring notion that, despite the flaws of patriarchy, men have been the sole architects of every significant invention. They argue that without men, the world would not have witnessed crucial advancements. The reality, however, is quite different. For instance, "Hidden Figures" revealed the critical role played by women at NASA, whose contributions had been largely erased from the collective memory. The story of Rosalind Franklin, who made vital contributions to the discovery of DNA, only to be overshadowed by Watson and Crick, is another glaring example. Through my research, I discovered that many women doctors from the UK, the US, and India were exceptionally intelligent and accomplished. However, their achievements were often undermined. hat are some challenges you’ve faced while writing this book? The challenges of writing this book are compounded for an Indian author. I divided my writing process between India, where I lived until recently, and London, where I moved three years ago. Indian libraries often lack sufficient materials on the subject of these remarkable women, making the research and writing process more challenging. Much of my research for this book took place in the British Library and in libraries accessible through friends in Canada and various other locations. Unfortunately, Indian libraries lack sufficient resources on this subject, making it exceptionally challenging for most Indian writers to undertake projects like this due to limited access to quality library collections.

I believe the most inspiring figure, particularly for the general reader, would be Rukhmabai. Her story was marked by incredibly daunting challenges. She was married off as a child and decided she wanted a divorce. She wanted to pursue education when it was not readily available to her. Her determination led her to court to seek a divorce, causing quite an uproar among Hindu conservatives, surprisingly including Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Rukhmabai had to resort to writing letters to The Times of India and appealing to Queen Victoria in order to gain support from the liberal communities both in the UK and India to obtain permission to divorce her husband and pursue her studies. On a personal note, I find a strong connection with a lesser-known woman named Haimabati Sen, who also endured significant hardships. She was a child widow in rural West Bengal, married at a tender age of eight and widowed by ten. Remarkably, she managed to break free from the oppressive system that child widows faced in those days

Women’s Aid publishes groundbreaking research National domestic abuse charity Women’s Aid has today published a first-ofits-kind report into what influences children and young people’s attitudes towards domestic abuse, proving a direct link between the viewing of harmful misogynist content online and the normalisation of unhealthy behaviours in relationships. The research explores children and young people’s understanding of gender

roles, relationships and sex, with the goal of informing Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) in schools. The report shows some worrying findings, notably the research shows a link between misogynistic online content and unhealthy views on relationships, which Women’s Aid know underpin domestic abuse. The research also explores children and young people’s views on the cur-

rent RSHE curriculum and identifies some significant gaps that need to be urgently improved, by working in collaboration with specialist organisations, like Women’s Aid. Additionally, the report found that girls had a significantly better understanding of healthy relationships, controlling behaviour and asking permission than boys, suggesting that the curriculum needs to go further to engage boys.

Edinburgh teacher receives Saroj Lal award An Edinburgh school teacher has been honoured with this year's Saroj Lal Award for her groundbreaking efforts in championing equality and diversity. Hardeep Kaur, a biology teacher at Portobello High School in Edinburgh, was presented with the award by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTC Scotland). The award, named after Scottish race relations advocate Saroj Lal, recognizes the dedication of GTC Scotland-registered teachers who actively address challenges to pro-

Hardeep Kaur

mote and cultivate a culture of equality and diversity. In the early stages of her career, Kaur resisted being

perceived as the sole representative of colour working in the field of equalities. However, in 2019, a racist incident motivated her to become actively involved in equity initiatives within her school, with a primary focus on benefiting students, staff, and members of the school community. Currently, she collaborates with the University of Edinburgh's School of Education to enhance their anti-racist practices and policies, providing support to Initial Teacher Education students.

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Amit Sharma, currently the Associate Director at Kiln Theatre, will officially assume the position of Artistic Director and CEO of the Kiln Theatre on December 1, 2023. Sharing his excitement, he said, “Over the last 18 months, I’ve got to know first-hand how truly iconic the Kiln Theatre is. To become the next Artistic Director and CEO is such a huge honour and to follow Indhu, who has always been

Source: X

Kiln Theatre names Amit Sharma Artistic Director and CEO

Amit Sharma

a huge inspiration to me, is beyond my wildest dreams.” Sharma, an internation-

ally acclaimed director in both theatre and television, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Prior to his role as Associate Director at Kiln Theatre, he held prominent positions, including Deputy Artistic Director at Birmingham Rep, Associate Artistic Director at the Royal Exchange, Manchester, and Associate Director at Graeae Theatre Company, where his theatrical journey commenced.

Zakir Khan creates history London's Royal Albert Hall Comedian Zakir Khan made history on October 8 by becoming the first Asian comedian in the world to perform at The Royal Albert Hall in London. With an audience of over 6,000 fans from diverse backgrounds, the atmosphere was electric, and he received a standing ovation lasting 20 minutes after his performance. Reflecting on his historic night, Khan shares, “It has

Zakir Khan

been more than 24 hours since I got down from the stage, and I am still in the

buzz of the show. Khan, aged 36, had made an emotional appeal on social media in preparation for this historic moment, with performances at the Sydney Opera House in Australia and Madison Square Garden in New York on his ambitious checklist. Filling the iconic 5,000-seat Royal Albert Hall for a show performed entirely in Hindi is a remarkable achievement.

Kareena's "The Buckingham Murders" premieres at BFI Expressing her long-standing passion for detective stories, Kareena Kapoor Khan is thrilled to be fulfilling her wish by starring in the upcoming film "The Buckingham Murders." Directed by Hansal Mehta, the movie is labeled an "atmospheric thriller" and recently had its world premiere at the 67th BFI London Film Festival. Kareena, who is not

only acting in the film but also co-producing it with Ektaa Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor, shared her excitement as an actor and a firsttime producer. In this London-based film, Kareena portrays the character of Jasmeet Bhamra, a police officer and single mother who has recently endured the tragic loss of her child in a shooting incident. She relocates to High

Wycombe and is tasked with investigating the case of a missing child. The actress emphasised that the role of Jas had been a character she had eagerly awaited for the past 23 years. Prior to this, Kareena was featured in Sujoy Ghosh's Netflix film "Jaane Jaan," and she is currently in the midst of filming for Rohit Shetty's "Singham Again."

"To Kill a Tiger" trailer released The official trailer for "To Kill a Tiger," a production by Mindy Kaling, Dev Patel, and Rupi Kaur, is now available for viewing. Directed and written by Nisha Pahuja, this documentary delves into the emotional journey of Ranjit, a farmer in Jharkhand, who triggers a societal awakening when his 13-year-old

daughter becomes the victim of a gangrape by three young men. Following the arrest by the police, a 14-month-long trial unfolds. According to the film's synopsis, "the villagers and their leaders initiate a sustained effort to pressure the family into dropping the charges." The documentary highlights the

exceptional nature of Ranjit's decision to stand by his daughter in a country where rape is reported every 20 minutes, and conviction rates are less than 30 percent. You can catch this compelling documentary in select theatres starting on October 20, with a wider release on October 27.

Nina Wadia hints at Zainab Masood's comeback Nina Wadia, the acclaimed British actress and comedian, has dropped hints about the potential reprisal of her role as Zainab Masood in the beloved BBC One soap opera, EastEnders. The character in question was last witnessed on the show in 2013, bidding farewell to Walford as she departed with her young son Kamil, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Masood Ahmed, portrayed by Nitin Ganatra.

Nina Wadia

In her recent magazine interview, Wadia expressed

her confidence in a future return to Albert Square, stating that she is "certain" it will happen at some point. “Part of me needed to leave and I was devastated. I did not suit being in the same character for that long and I was finding myself climbing the walls with just playing Zainab,” the 54-yearold said. “They were kind to me on the show in that they did not kill her off and I am sure at one point I will return.”

Exploring multi-cultural musical heritage Anusha Singh The Bloomsbury Festival 2023 is all set to host a mesmerising evening, uniting some of the most eminent Bengali vocalists and instrumentalists from the UK, in collaboration with the diverse musicians of the Grand Union Orchestra, who represent global musical traditions. Guided by the skilled tabla maestro, Yousuf Ali Khan, the event offers a promise of a captivating journey. It will explore traditional melodies by Lalon and Nazrul, interwoven with soulful ragas. This distinctive musical experience will take a deep dive into the multifaceted world of Bangladesh's music, language, and cultural heritage. The performance will shine a spotlight on the acclaimed Bengali vocalist Lucy Rahman and introduce the sitar virtuoso Jonathan Mayer in his Grand Union debut. Shanti Jayasinha, who will be wielding both the cello and the trumpet during the event, shared insights into his musical journey and his participation in the upcoming show with the orchestra in a recent conversation with Asian Voice. an you elaborate on your personal musical journey and that with the orchestra? I come from a musical family. My father was a singer, and though they couldn't afford instruments, they enjoyed singing. My mother, on the other hand, came from a family with a rich musical heritage. She studied at the Royal College of Music, played the flute and the piano. So, I was exposed to different types of music. As I pursued a science route at university, I realised that my true passion was music. I was already playing jazz, and my journey into various forms of world music began. I encountered Indian music through the Grand Union Orchestra in the 1980s. I've had the privilege of playing with Indian musicians in various contexts, traveling to India, and studying Carnatic rhythm. My background is more rooted in Hindustani music, but I'm also drawn to the intricacies of Carnatic rhythms. The Grand Union Orchestra has been instrumental in exposing me to diverse musical cultures. We've explored Indonesian, Eastern European, Latin American, and African music, among others. Our

collaborations with

ing different facets of music and culture through our performances. ow do work on blending the complexity of the trumpet and cello with South Asian themes? Is it a complicated process? Indeed, it involves attentive listening and adapting to the music's nuances. Each instrument has its strengths and limitations. For example, the

Chinese and Bangladeshi musicians in London have added another dimension to my musical journey. Tony Haynes, the driving force behind the orchestra, is unique in his ability to blend these diverse genres into an incredible musical fusion. ow does the orchestra explore musical choices for different shows? Does the audience demand specific impromptu performances? For our concerts, we often have specific themes. In the case of the upcoming event, it's focused on exploring South Asian music. We hope to attract a mixed audience and not just cater to a specific community. This way, we aim to reach a broader audience, especially in East London, where we're wellknown. Regarding the audience's involvement in song selection, I haven't experienced them demanding specific songs during concerts, like in some Indian classical music performances. Our music is developed organically within the band. We might take songs from famous poets, like Bangladeshi poets, and arrange them in unique ways. These arrangements often incorporate various rhythms, sometimes blending elements from different cultures. We're essentially creative musicians explor-

cello shares qualities with the violin, a common instrument in Indian music, making the transition more feasible. As for the trumpet, while not traditionally Indian, it's essential to understand that Western instruments have been used in Indian music, Bollywood being a prime example. The process involves fusing my jazztrained skills, improvisation, and sometimes arranging pieces with jazz harmony. It's fascinating to see how Indian melodies can transform into entirely new compositions while retaining their musical essence. ow is the event put together by the orchestra at the Bloomsbury Festival unique? The concert's uniqueness lies in its blend of Indian and Bangladeshi melodies, mixing raags with music from other traditions. The presence of Yousuf Ali Khan on the table and Lucy Rahman’s voice add a rich layer to the music. The audience can expect a captivating experience. It's a two-way interaction; 50% is the musicians' responsibility, and the other 50% lies with the audience. This balance and live musical events create an extraordinary experience for all involved. The event will take place at the Conway Hall, London on Friday, 20th October 2023.

Shanti Jayasinha

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Pearl of Africa’s rich history, cultural diversity, patriotic spirit and resilience recalled at the 61st Independence Anniversary

Prapti Dutt: CoreSculpt Sunetra Senior Prapti is a multi-award-winning, Level – 4 certified, fitness trainer & Nutritionist who has positively impacted & transformed the lives of thousands by strengthening their core. She revolutionises the prospect of the ‘HomeWorkout’. Open, radiant and cheery, the mother of two offers uniquely holistic workouts that promote sustained physical strength over simply intensive routines that can demoralise a person or rapidly burn them out. “They say change occurs outside your comfort zone. I stand to challenge that and say stay inside the comfort of your home & change is still possible. Enjoyment is just as important as the rigour of the routines,” she shared. This is certainly seen in her sparky, tailored dynamic routines that are a joy to complete & leaves you craving more.

Direct flights between Mumbai and Entebbe starts thrice a week engagement. This improves flexibility, balance, mobility, stamina and corporal power. Furthermore, the careful organized combinations increase mental acuity and mindfulness, and boost the immune system. “I have motivated women through menopause and helped heal Hepatitis B!” Prapti beamed. “I will work multiple muscle groups at any given time: that makes people incredibly cognitive: there is a connection between body and mind. Outward actions become part of an inner framework. You will find yourself more alert. CoreSculpt is not simply for losing weight but building resilience.”

PRAPTI DUTT

ou subvert the idea of the commanding, one-sided fitness instructor so popular in the nineties. Your approach is gentler but firm.

*** The multifarious workouts originate from Prapti’s own tough journey from severe depression into abundant, recovered health. Following two CSections and the descent into postpartum depression, she discovered for herself what truly helped: “people think only of good abs when it comes to core strength, but it is about so much more.” Garnering awards in the categories of community, business and female empowerment, including placing in the top 25 trainers for women’s fitness category of the prestigious British Fitness awards amongst a whopping 24,000 nominations , she embodies successfully her signature knowledge. No wonder then that this has also recently culminated in the handy accessible app: CoreSculpt! Prapti has dropped from a size 16 to 0. “My aim is global reach wherein anybody can just jump in,” the founder continued. “My sessions are instruction-based and can be accessed in your own time once subscribed so I am always there with you, working along with you , as your fitness buddy.” Indeed, Prapti’s app contains a diverse gallery of over 500 original workouts, designed to exercise every conceivable part of the body, appropriate for any age, size or body shape. From calisthenics and bodyweights to yoga, resistance training and Pilates, CoreSculpt develops overall body strength through fun yet long-term

Not only does Prapti’s fitness franchise fortify physically and mentally but also emotionally and the entire individual system underlying. Indeed, Prapti is close to her clients, listening respectfully to individual stories, worries and encouraging collective morale. “We have a Whatsapp chat set up so that subscribers can talk to each other and share updates on their wellness journeys and personal thoughts and advice on this. I call my members my Rockstars!” Whether you are swinging your arms and stretching your legs, doing squats, jumping high or reaching gently, CoreSculpt certainly pushes you to wholesomely rely on you. “I wanted to introduce people to exercise without the gym: removing the need for clunky external equipment. Some of

“I will work multiple muscle groups at any given time: that makes people incredibly cognitive: there is a connection between body and mind. Outward actions become part of an inner framework. You will find yourself more alert"

“Uganda is also focusing on sports tourism internationally. Especially in the areas of Football and golf. In 2027 the Africa Cup of Nations will be hosted by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. For the first time in more than 50 years, India and Uganda are connected by non-stop Air service by Uganda Airlines. “Uganda Airlines start-

my routines may benefit from a dumbbell or two but mostly you just need yourself & a Rockstar attitude! Ultimately, CoreSculpt is the first of its kind to bring together multiple essential exercises by a single trainer including mindset coaching and nutrition into one comprehensive platform.” Finally, Prapti grows more than brawn, glowing spirits and deep confidence: she unfalteringly shapes people into fully functioning individuals who are ready to thrive. She concluded: “Movement is sometimes the only medicine one needs.”

You feel personally held as you move from one exciting exercise to the next, optimistic not simply about your fitness but at once the new doors that such newfound vigour could open in life.

On the occasion of the 61st Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Uganda, a reception was hosted by H.E. Nimisha J Madhvani, High Commissioner of Uganda to the UK and Ambassador to Ireland on 12 October 2023 at IMO Building. The Ugandan community, embassy officials and development partners made

You do better when you feel comfortable: I think extraordinary change happens inside your comfort zone. If the coach does not collaborate or know how to be buddies, how can you expect invested commitment from your clients? Mutual trust is imperative.

oes exercise really help one to organically heal?

Chronic issues can be helped. There is a lot of relief felt, anxiety goes down and people come off their medications: physical fitness has medicinal properties.

our videos offer incredible variety: what other ways do you personalise the workouts? You can work on any section of the body: upper or lower body strength and complete classes of different intensities: there is low, medium and maximal.

hat advice would you give for creating a successful app?

Let your personality show. For me, it was about demonstrating the unique diversity I’d learned in exercises for wellness. You won’t find the complete and enjoyable combination anywhere else.

oreSculpt offers wellness mantras to mindfully help people on their active way. Can you share a favourite? It translates as: if you have a dream, madness is a must. You cannot do extraordinary things unless you do and think extraordinarily. To ascend to the next level, it's essential to work with what you have and embark on a quest to discover those extraordinary capabilities that may be concealed beneath the surface. W: https://keepwellmantras.com/

L to R: H.E. Ivan Romero-Martinez, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador Alistair Harrison Marshall of the Diplomatic Corps, Rt Hon Amama Mbabazi. Special Envoy of H.E. President Yoweri Museveni for Peace & Security, Harriet Mathews, Director General, Africa and the Americas at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and HE Nimisha Jayant Madhvani, High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda to the UK, Northern Ireland and Ambassador to Ireland.

the reception vibrant. This momentous occasion highlighted Uganda’s rich history, cultural diversity, patriotic spirit, and resilience, which have enabled the “Pearl of Africa” to overcome challenges and evolve over the past six decades, resulting in lasting peace, steady progress, and prosperity. Her Excellency Nimisha Madhvani, the Uganda High Commissioner, addressed the audience, commending their patriotism and emphasising the vital role of the diaspora in Uganda’s development. She urged Ugandans to collaborate, invest in their homeland and work unitedly for unity and progress. She said, “President Museveni has been advocating for the last 36 years that Uganda is a safe investment and friendly destination for tourism. As a progressive, beautiful, and peaceful nation, the way Uganda has shown its potential and the Ugandans are proud of, looks like it is a Renaissance of the Republic of Uganda under President Museveni’s visionary leadership.” H.E. Madhvani added, “The focus of this year’s Uganda Independence is Sustaining a united and progressive nation. Taking charge of our future as a free nation. A reflection of Africa’s spirit of solidarity, and patriotism towards social and economic transformation. Uganda is a country blessed so much.

ed operating a direct flight between Mumbai, India and Entebbe, Uganda. The service will run three times a week. There are 45,000 NRI-Asians in Uganda. We are also hoping for the Entebbe to London direct flight.” Harriet Mathews Director General, Africa and the Americas at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said, “As His Majesty the King said, Uganda is a country of outstanding beauty and boundless hospitality. The partnership between the UK and Uganda is longstanding and important. We share many similar aspirations, and we work together on a wide range of issues.” Special envoy of Ugandan President for peace and security, former Prime Minister of Uganda Rt Hon Amama Mbabazi said, “Due to sound macroeconomic policies by Uganda Government at the backdrop of peace and tranquillity for the last three decades, Uganda's economy is growing by an average of 6% for the last 10 years.” MP Virendra Sharma, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the UK Saida Muna Tasneem, Mayor of Harrow Ramji Chauhan, Mayor of Ealing Hitesh Tailor, Honorary Consul of Uganda in Leicester Jafar Kapasi were among some of the prominent guests who were present at the reception.

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21 - 27 October 2023

ABPL organises Pre-Navratri zoom event Badal Lakhlani

n the occasion of Navratri, Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar hosted two exclusive PreNavratri zoom events 'Ma Adhya Shakti Aradhana,' bringing together members of the Gujarati community from the UK and India.

Kokila Patel, the

Kokila Patel

Consulting Editor of Gujarat Samachar, hosted the event and extended warm wishes to all the attendees. She highlighted the significance of this special programme organised before the Navratri festival to honour the mother goddess. She said, “Adhya Shakti Jagadamba had valiantly battled the formidable demon Mahishasura for nine consecutive days, eventually defeating him on the tenth day, leading to Ma Jagadamba being

Jyotsna Shah

known as Mahishasura Mardini. It's on this day that we celebrate Dussehra.” Additionally, drawing from the Ramayana, she shared how Lord Shri Rama engaged in a nine-day war against Ravana, ultimately vanquishing him on the tenth day, which we now celebrate as Dussehra, symbolising the victory of divine power. “In contemporary times, the veneration of the mother goddess takes on diverse forms across all the states in India. In Gujarat, this celebration is marked by lively garba dances, solemn puja rituals, and heartfelt aartis. A notable contribution to this tradition is the beautiful composition by Gujarati poet Avinash Vyas, which lauds the glory of Ma

Jagdamba”, she added. Maya Deepak has travelled from Ahmedabad to London, bringing with her a plethora of captivating garba and aarti performances. Meena Trivedi has also graced us with her melodious voice, enriching our experience with the garba and aarti dedicated to Maa Amba. The programme began with a strotam which was presented, Maya Deepak, followed by other Gujarati garba songs. Meena Trivedi sang amazing garba songs in both the zoom events. Apart from them, Vandana Somaiya also presented garba songs in the second series of this zoom event. Jyotsna Shah, Consulting Editor of Gujarat Samachar, said, “Congratulations to each and every one of you on the occasion of Navratri. This festival is brimming with enthusiasm and a palpable divine energy, especially evident in the devotional singers who are

Maya Deepak

extolling the various forms of Mataji.” Sonu Malkani, Neema Suru, Kishorbhai, Vimla Patel, Muktaben, Hansaben Patel and several other from the audience participated with folk garba songs. Pooja Raval, Business Development Manager of ABPL, said, “This journey wouldn't have been possible without the invaluable support of our

Meena Trivedi

Vandana Somaiya

readers and advertisers. Our readers have an enduring emotional connection with us. They continually provide us with valuable suggestions, and for the past six months, we have been reaching out to them through phone calls and letters, expressing our concern about rising costs of printing and mailing. In response to

the guidance and recommendations from these readers, we will be implementing an adjustment in the pricing of Gujarat Samachar starting on November 1st, marking the first rate increase in six years.” Mahesh Liloriya, Group Editor of Gujarat Samachar, provided an overview of the entire programme and highlighted how the devoted followers of Adhya Shakti had immersed everyone in a profound sense of devotion, making this day truly significant. He said, “The collective participation gave the impression that Ma Amba herself had graced this platform. We all share a profound sentiment, and let's unite to celebrate Mataji's presence throughout the universe.”

Positive articulation of queer rights in India by Chief Justice pleases LGBTQ+ community O

n Tuesday, India's highest court stated that it lacks the authority to legalise same-sex marriages. The Chief Justice of the country emphasised that the formulation of such a law falls within the jurisdiction of the parliament. A five-judge panel, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, deliberated on this matter from April to May this year and delivered their verdict on Tuesday. As he began reading the verdict, Chandrachud acknowledged the existence of varying opinions on the extent to which India should embrace same-sex marriages. Of the remaining four judges, two concurred with Chandrachud's view that the court should not legalise same-sex marriages, establishing a majority opinion. The remaining two judges have yet to express their stance on the matter. This decision follows a historic 2018 ruling by the Supreme Court, which abolished a colonial-era ban on gay sex in India. It's worth noting that in Asia, only Taiwan and Nepal currently permit same-sex unions, as the region continues to be

predominantly influenced by conservative values in politics and society. The government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had opposed the petitions, characterising them as "urban elitist views" and contending that the appropriate forum for discussion and legislation on this issue is the parliament. Additionally, they argued that such marriages do not align with the traditional Indian family structure, which consists of a husband, a wife, and children. Victory seems like a farfetched goal A petition filed by Sameer Samudra and Amit Gokhale, who married on September 18, 2010, was denied registration of their

marriage under the Hindu Marriage Act by the Registrar of Marriages. Speaking on the verdict with the newsweekly, Sameer Samudra said, “I really liked the detailed Court analysis this verdict provided. While we appreciate the progressive attitude of the Supreme Court of India and the specific guidance it has given to the Central Government for the inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in all walks of life, I wish they would have given full marriage rights or at least allowed civil unions. I truly wished they would have been more direct and more inclusive in giving equal rights on all fronts. Having said that, we know we will need to continue

this fight for equality and we envision Indian LGBTQ+ individuals to live a life of dignity and respect. Now the work starts on how we can execute the guidance given and how we can collaboratively work with the Central Government and other organisations to make equitable policies a reality. It’s a step in the right direction although victory seems like a far-fetched goal.” Supreme Court's ruling is disappointing Zainab Patel, a petitioner and activist for the marriage equality case, said that the ruling was a "day of sadness and yet of a firmer resolve." "While the Supreme Court of India missed a once-in-a-lifetime chance to make LGBTIQ+ Indians truly free to love – We, India's children, will continue our struggle where marriage equality doesn't remain a distant dream. “The Supreme Court's ruling is disappointing for the LGBTIQ+ rights in India, but it is not the end of the fight for marriage equality. LGBTIQ+ activists and supporters have vowed to continue their struggle until all Indians have the

right to marry the person they love, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.” Pleased with the positive articulation of queer rights in India by the Chief Justice of India Raga D’Silva, Chair of Trustees: London LGBT+Centre told us, “As an intervenor in the current same-sex marriage equality fight in India, I feel absolutely gutted with the verdict. I am of Indian origin, legally married to my samesex partner here in the UK. The fact that my marriage is not legally recognised in India, although heterosexual couples married in foreign countries are, seems very unfair. All we want is a right to marry, choose who we wish to marry and have the legalisation in our favour so we can enjoy the basic rights open to heterosexual citizens of the country. Having said that, I am personally pleased with the positive articulation of queer rights in India by the Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud. I recognise that we need to keep fighting for our rights – the doors have been opened for

us now, and we will get there.” Udit Sood, one of the 21 petitioners told us, "Today’s ruling is a heartbreaking loss for Queer Indians. In prior judgements involving heterosexual couples, the Supreme Court recognized marriage as a Constitutionally guaranteed fundamental right—one that is “integral” to the right to life. Now, while addressing queer couples, the Court reverses precedent to effectively say “never mind, there’s no such right after all. The Court deals its most devastating blow to queer kids growing up in India. Their ruling tells those kids loud and clear that marriage (and all benefits that flow from it) are indeed available to them – all they need do is lie to themselves, to their partners, their families, and their communities. But if an honest life is important, then dreams of a socially and legally recognised family must be abandoned. I’m disappointed, to put it mildly. But our community understands reliance and perseverance. We will continue to push forward because that is what we do and who we are."

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21 - 27 October 2023

DURGA PUJA CELEBRATIONS IN FULL SWING T he Durga puja festive period is here, as many pujos in the UK started their celebrations with a cultural programme to mark Mahalaya. Some of them have reached milestone years in 2023, such as the London Durgotsav Committee organised puja popularly known as the Camden Puja. They are celebrating 60 years and supported/visited by millionaire Lakshmi Mittal every year. London Sharad Utsav commonly known as the Ealing Pujo is now moving to a new venue in Greenford and celebrating 15 years this year. Panchamukhee at the Harrow Art Centre has also stepped onto the 18th year of its celebration, whereas Adda Slough is celebrating its 5th year. Adda like many other pujos in the UK, is a place to find lip smacking Bengali food as well as a proof of Bengal’s handicraft. In last few years at their puja, as a part of decoration, they have displayed wooden dolls of Agradwip, Burdwan, Patachitra from Nayagram, Pingla, West Midnapore, bamboo work from Kushmandi, South Dinajpur, shola work from Shantiniketan and Chhou mask from Purulia. This year Adda is going to display the exceptional lighting work of Chandannagar. Nottingham Bengali Association is celebrating Durga Puja for the 6th year at the Hindu Temple at Carlton Road, with a brand new 5 feet high idol, exported from

HBG members at the Thames Parade in 2022

Kolkata. On the day of Kojagari Lakshmi pujo or Sharad Poonam- ie 28 October, Heritage Bengal Global (HBG) has organised a Thames Durga Parade with Durga protimas from local pujos and bhatiyali singing live in the background by the famous Sourav Moni. The idea is to recreate Kolkata's Red Road carnival environment and make a provision for people to enjoy the procession, albeit on river Thames. Second year in a row, Anirban organiser Mukhopadhyay is excited to pull this off on a busy weekend, as they are also participating at the Diwali on the Square, which is the Mayor of London’s official Diwali celebration at Trafalgar Square, to be held on 29 October. Speaking to Asian Voice exclusively he said, “Last year we had a boat that showcased Bengal’s handicrafts, culture, food and Ma Durga’s murti, that sailed down the Thames, at the beat of dhak and

kashor. It was a spectacle in the UK’s history. This time, it promises to be bigger and better with lots of VVIPs joining us. We are hoping the High Commissioner of India to the UK, His Excellency Vikram Doraiswami will join with his wife, who is a Bengali herself. We are also hoping the. Deputy High Commissioner Sujit Ghosh will join. He was there at our first Thames parade.” On 29 October, Dipti Jain who had organised the famous Saree Walk in London and the ‘Saree on Ladies’ Day’ at Ascot, is organising a Sidoor Khela at the Diwali on the Square, for the first time in history. Speaking to Bartaman, she said, they have mostly sourced and curated the white and red sarees to wear on the day from weavers and props from artisans in rural Bengal. From 2-3 pm, 150 women will participate in this Sidoor Khela, in the heart of Trafalgar Square in Central London, along to the beats of Dhaak.

Female priest to perform puja in Melbourne, while Utsav Dubai gets a 12 feet tall Goddess Bengalis worldwide cannot think of an autumn without the celebration of Durga Puja. Dr Madhumati Chatterji from Protiva Mernda Durgostav in Melbourne told Asian Voice how 8-10 friends and families have come together for their first ever pujo in Mernda. Recently moved from Brisbane, this puja is named after Madhumati’s mother Protiva. “A friend visiting highlighted how there is no Durga puja within 50kms of where we are. So, she inspired me to start this pujo in my house. I went to Kumartuli in Kolkata with another friend and chose an idol. However, we could not manage to find a single priest (purohit) because of high demand in and around Melbourne. So, I got trained on zoom by a seasoned senior priest, who has taught me how to perform the pujo.”

12 feet tall Goddess Durga at Utsav Dubai's puja

Utsav Dubai Utsav Dubai has decided to celebrate the arts and traditions of Bengal in their theme for this year’s Durga Puja. This year, the Goddess Durga idol stands at a majestic 12 feet, intricately crafted to perfection. The sheer grandeur of the idol will leave you speechless as you gaze upon the divine mother, poised elegantly, slaying the demon Mahishasura. The artistry and craftsmanship are a

testament to the dedication of the idol makers who have worked tirelessly to this massive bring masterpiece to life. Stuttgart Sarbojonin Durgapuja Amongst the special attractions at Stuttgart Sarbojonin Durgapuja is their “Indian Food Fest” –a star attraction for Indians and Germans alike. In 2023 too it promises to have a range of delicacies and have a full packed cultural programme with members. But the main attraction is the live concert by Arko Mukhaerjee, a famed urban folk artist and world music researcher who sings in 15 languages of the world. This year Puja is also being hosted by Lusaka Bengali Community Zambia Foundation in Zambia, Guadalaraja Durga Puja in Mexico, Utrecht Sarbojonin Utsav Committee (USUC) in Netherlands and Houston Durga Bari Society in Texas to name a few.

Kajal Dave with her sons Shardool Dave and Tathagat Dave celebrating Navratri in Copenhagen, Denmark

Karamsad Samaj Navratri Celebration

Surrey Gujarati Hindu Society Navratri celebrations

Bob Blackman MP attends the Navratri celebration at Sanatan Hindu Mandir, Wembley

Navratri celebration: Shree Sorathia Prajapati Community UK

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21 - 27 October 2023

Dear Financial Voice Reader, Alpesh Patel OBE

Making the Nation Wealthier Through Patriotic Investment in ISAs and SIPPs Introduction The United Kingdom has a rich history of financial innovation and investment. However, the nation's wealth often lies stagnant in low-yield savings accounts or underperforming funds managed by fund managers who notoriously fail to beat the market. This column aims to present a patriotic investment strategy that could make the nation wealthier: moving more money into Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) and SelfInvested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) focused on global equities. The Underperformance of Fund Managers According to research from Morningstar, UK-domiciled funds delivered an average annualised return of 4.46% over the past five years. However, the investor return was 4.14% a year, indicating that timing the market and fund manager decisions cost investors 7% of their annual returns: Interactive Investor. This underperformance is a compelling reason to consider alternative investment avenues. According to the SPIVA Europe Year-End 2020 Scorecard, 88% of UK active equity funds underperformed their benchmarks over a 10-year period. This underperformance comes at a high cost, both to individual investors and to the nation as a whole. The Power of ISAs and SIPPs ISAs and SIPPs offer tax advantages that can significantly boost long-term returns. By investing in global companies like Costco, Apple, and Microsoft, not only do investors stand to gain more, but they also contribute to the UK's balance of payments, effectively acting as exporters. The Patriotic Angle Investing in global equities through ISAs and SIPPs is not just a smart financial decision; it's a patriotic one. By doing so, UK citizens can contribute to national wealth and even influence global markets subtly. The money that flows into these global companies can be seen as an extension of British financial prowess, echoing the nation's historical role as a global financial hub. The Potential Impact If even a fraction of the UK's stagnant wealth is moved into such investment vehicles, the impact could be enormous. Not only would individual wealth grow, but the nation's financial health would also see a marked improvement. This strategy aligns perfectly with the UK's broader economic goals and can be a cornerstone of a new, patriotic financial era. According to the Office for National Statistics, the total household wealth in the UK was estimated to be £14.6 trillion as of 2018. Even diverting a small fraction of this into ISAs and SIPPs invested in high-performing global stocks could result in billions flowing back into the UK economy. Moreover, this is not just about individual wealth; it's about national prosperity. A wealthier citizenry can contribute more to public services, reduce the burden on social safety nets, and even help to pay down national debt. Conclusion The UK has the opportunity to lead by example, showing how patriotic investing can benefit not just individual citizens but the nation as a whole. By moving away from underperforming fund managers and embracing ISAs and SIPPs focused on global equities, the UK can usher in a new era of financial prosperity. By making this shift, we're not just investing in companies; we're investing in the future of the United Kingdom. It's time to make a patriotic choice for a wealthier nation. This is one reason I launched my Campaign for a Million, to teach a million people how to invest better.

NHS to rope in British start-up The NHS is under pressure to award a £480 million contract for managing the data of millions of patients to a British start-up with noble intentions, rather than a US tech company with ties to espionage. Quantexa, recently valued at over a billion dollars, is vying for a contract to integrate hospital data, a crucial step for improving healthcare and research. However, there are growing concerns among senior doctors regarding potential public backlash, especially considering that Palantir, a software company with strong connections to the

US defense industry, is the leading contender for the contract. Vishal Marria, CEO of Quantexa, advocated for the NHS to choose a British company whose staff have close ties to the healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of keeping UK medical records within a domestically founded platform. He stressed the core values of trust and transparency embedded in his company, stating, "We approach this with genuine intent to support what could be a once-in-a-generation data transformation."

Tata Steel CEO sets 3-year UK plant decarbonisation goal Tata Steel is targeting the completion of its decarbonisation efforts at its UK plant within the next three years, as stated by the company's CEO T V Narendran. As a key element of its decarbonisation strategy, the company will be transitioning from the aging blast furnace (BF) process to a more environmentally friendly low-emission electric arc furnace (EAF) process. “Consultation process

with the unions is going. We also need a number of (other) permissions. Some of the infrastructure needs to be upgraded. There is a lot of work that needs to be done. It has already started. We are hoping that in the next three years we should complete the entire journey,” Narendran said. Narendran's comments were made in response to a question regarding the timeline for the company's decarbonisation plan,

Auditor KPMG hit with ‘record’ £21 mn fine Global auditing specialist KPMG has been fined £21 mn and told to pay a further £5.3 mn in costs for failing to identify the true state of collapsed construction and outsourcing giant Carillion’s finances in the years before its demise. Regulator the Financial Reporting Council said KPMG’s shortcomings stretched over multiple years before Carillion went bust in early 2018 with around £1.5 bn in debt. It said KPMG had lacked “an adequate degree of professional scepticism” in its work with the business. At the time of its demise Carillion had around 420 public sector contracts including building two new hospitals, parts of the HS2 rail network, providing school meals and maintain-

ing sites such as military bases and prisons. In damning decisions, the FRC said KPMG and its former partner Peter Meehan had been “seriously deficient” in the three years leading up to Carillion’s collapse because they had not properly established its true financial position. “KPMG and Meehan failed to respond to numerous indicators that Carillion’s core operations were loss making and that it was reliant on short term and unsustainable measures to support its cash flows,” the FRC said.

which he had previously indicated would require financial support from the UK government. In response to another query, Narendran mentioned that his company is currently in discussions with several European suppliers to procure new plant machinery. Tata Steel and the UK government recently reached an agreement on a joint investment

T V Narendran

plan of £1.25 billion to implement decarbonisation initiatives at the Port Talbot steelmaking facility in Britain. Narendran further noted that out of the £1.25 billion investment, £500 million will be contributed by the UK government.

Ashley's Frasers Group surpasses Kamani's stake in Boohoo In a strategic move, Mike Ashley's Frasers Group has reportedly surpassed Boohoo's founder, Mahmud Kamani, to become the largest single shareholder in the fastfashion retail giant, according to reports. Recent regulatory filings revealed that the Frasers Group had increased its stake in Boohoo to 13.4%, following a series of share purchases over recent months. Previously, it was disclosed in June that Frasers Group had acquired an initial 5% stake in Boohoo. With this latest purchase, Frasers now holds the highest individual stake in Boohoo, surpassing Mahmud Kamani, who maintains a 12.5% stake. When considering the Kamani family's holdings

and Boohoo co-founder Carol Kane's shares, their combined stake totals approximately 25%, giving them a larger share portion, according to the report. This move comes amid a longstanding rivalry between Ashley and Kamani, both self-made millionaires who have consistently sought to expand their business empires through strategic acquisitions.

London court starts trial for GVK unpaid loans A trial commenced in the High Court in London involving six Indian banks seeking to recover unpaid loans totalling an estimated $2 billion, including accrued interest, from GVK Coal Developers (Singapore) Pte Ltd and its affiliated companies.

Judge Dame Clare Moulder presided over the proceedings in the Commercial Court division, hearing the case filed by Bank of Baroda (acting through its Ras Al Khaimah branch), Bank of India (London branch), Canara Bank (London branch),

ICICI Bank Ltd (acting through its Bahrain, Dubai, and Off-Shore Banking branches), Indian Overseas Bank (Corporate Branch, India), and Axis Bank Ltd. The case stems from loan facilities provided to the company in 2011 and 2014, which the banks con-

tend are significantly overdue, with the exception of $83 million from the sale of a Bengaluru airport and certain undisputed amounts. According to court documents, the banks have been pursuing this case at the High Court in London since 2020.

Bank of England warns of stretched global asset valuations The Bank of England cautioned that valuations for certain financial assets, particularly US tech stocks and dollar-denominated corporate bonds, might be overly high. "The overall risk environment continues to be challenging and near-term

growth prospects remain subdued," the BoE's Financial Policy Committee (FPC) said after a quarterly meeting. "Given the impact of higher interest rates, and uncertainties associated with inflation and growth, some risky asset valuations

appear to be stretched," it added. The Financial Policy Committee (FPC) determined that the banks and the broader financial system in the UK continued to display resilience. They opted to maintain the banks' counter-cyclical capital buffer (CCyB) at its current

level of 2%. While some FPC members advocated for an increase in the rate to enhance the banks' resilience, given the low levels of loan losses, the possibility of reducing it was also deliberated, as reported by the Bank of England.

Former Barclays Bank CEO barred from senior UK finance roles Britain's financial regulator announced that it had fined former Barclays CEO Jes Staley £1.8 million and barred him from holding senior financial positions due to misleading statements about his relationship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) revealed

that Staley had "recklessly approved" a letter from Barclays to the FCA, which falsely claimed that he did not have a close connection with Epstein. However, email correspondence showed that Staley considered Epstein one of his "deepest" and "most cherished" friends, leading to the regulatory decision to

prevent him from holding a senior role in the financial industry. Staley, aged 66, was removed from Barclays in 2021 due to his association with Epstein. It's important to note that the FCA's ruling is provisional and Staley has the option to appeal during an upcoming tribunal. Following the

FCA's decision, Barclays indicated that Staley would be ineligible for, or would forfeit, bonuses and share awards amounting to £17.8 million. The bank had previously suspended all of Staley's deferred bonuses and longterm share awards during the regulator's investigation.

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IMF raises India’s FY24 growth forecast to 6.3% The International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised India’s growth projection for the current fiscal year to 6.3%, from 6.1% estimated earlier, on the back of a stronger than expected consumption during the June quarter. The current growth forecast, which is closer to the 6.5% estimate made by the RBI, will help India maintain its position as the fastestgrowing major economy in the world at a time when expectations for China are lower. In contrast to an earlier forecast of 5.2%, China is predicted to grow by 5% this year. The world economy is predicted to develop by 3% this year and 2.9% next year, which is 0.1% slower than the earlier prediction.

“The global economy is limping along, not sprinting… growth is well below historical averages,” Pierre Olivier Gourinchas, IMF’s chief economist, said after releasing the latest World Economic Outlook (WEO). The outlook does not factor in the implications of the conflict in Israel,

TCS to buyback £1.7 bn worth of shares at 15% premium Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has announced a share buyback for £1.7 billion at a price of Rs 4,150 a share on October 11. The buyback price is at a premium of about 15 per cent to the prevailing price. The stock ended 0.44 per cent down at Rs 3,613 on October 11, ahead of the company’s earnings release. The company will be buying up to 4,09,63,855 shares representing 1.12 per cent of the total equity. The buyback size does not include transaction costs, applicable taxes and other incidental and related expenses. This is the fifth share buyback by India’s largest information technology services company in the last six years. The company bought £6.6 billion worth of shares in four such exercises. TCS bought back its shares for the first time in February 2017. It bought shares worth £1.6 billion at an 18 per cent premium to the prevailing price. This was followed by two buybacks of £1.6 billion each in June 2018 and October 2020, at an 18 and 10 per cent

premium, respectively. The last time the IT major bought back shares from holders was in January 2022 at a premium of 17 per cent a piece, buying shares worth £1.8 billion. TCS' 2023 buyback price is lower than the previous buyback price of Rs 4,500. "The buyback is subject to approval of the shareholders by means of a special resolution through a postal ballot," TCS said in an exchange filing. "The public announcement and Letter of Offer setting out the process, timelines and other requisite details will be released in due course in accordance with the Buyback Regulations."

India ready for bigger role in clean energy supply chains, says FM India is ideally positioned to "strengthen and diversify supply chains" for clean energy items, according to finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. China presently dominates this industry as it is the largest producer and exporter of solar and wind power equipment. At the launch of “Partnership for Resilient and Inclusive Supply-chain Enhancement (RISE)”, the FM said that India is in readiness to play a bigger role in the supply chains of clean energy products. The government has already announced PLI in some of these areas. The RISE partnership is an initiative of the World Bank and G7 under Japan’s Presidency for developed & developing countries, to build momentum for enhanced collaboration on diversification of supply chain for clean energy products & tackling climate change. Countries like India, Japan, Australia, and the US are already working together to diversify their supply chains across product categories in an effort to lessen their reliance on China. At a different event held at Marrakech, Morocco, the FM also highlighted India's eagerness to collaborate with the IMF to assist developing nations in facilitating domestic resource mobilisation, as approved by G20 leaders. She also appreciated the IMF’s role with regard to policy work for crypto assets and the related G20 road map for global

coordination within and beyond G20 countries. A high-level discussion on capacity building and the two-pillar solution was organised in conjunction with the fourth G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) meeting in Marrakech. The discussion covered a wide range of topics related to the two-pillar international tax plan, including the broad agenda for capacity building.

which is being watched closely. Asked about India’s growth and inflation projections, which have been revised upwards from 4.9% to 5.5%, the IMF chief economist said, “India is one of the large emerging markets doing better than expected, it’s been doing better for a while. It is one of the growth engines in the world economy. We are revising growth for fiscal year to 6.3%, but not changing next year’s projections. That’s a robust growth number, although there is a little bit of slowdown from last year. Inflation is also pushing up in India. Some of this is related to increased food prices in the country.” The Indian economy is projected to expand 6.3% in 202425 , according to the IMF's forecast.

18% rise in India's direct tax collections Direct tax collection in India up to October 9, 2023, stood at £111 billion, or roughly 18% more than during the same time last year. Direct tax receipts were £96 billion after refunds, a 21.8% increase above net receipts for the same time the previous year. Fifty two and half per cent of the overall budget projections for direct taxes in 2023– 2024 are covered by this collection. Personal income tax (PIT) increase was expected to be 29.53%, but corporate income tax (CIT) growth was estimated to be 7.3%. Nitin Gupta, chairman Central Board of Direct Taxes, said the department was confident of meeting the budget targets for direct taxes set for the current fiscal year as receipts “as on date” were good. The net growth in CIT collection after refund adjustments is 12.4%, and the net growth in PIT collection is 32.5% (PIT only)/31.9% (PIT plus STT). According to the department, refunds totaling £15 billion were issued between April 1, 2023, and October 9, 2023. There were 73 million I-T returns filed for the assessment year 2023–24, of which 72 million were verified. The total number of ITRs processed was estimated at 68 million. Gupta said the tax department was reaching out to assessees through a special call centre whose refunds were held up due to a mismatch and validation issues with the taxpayers’ bank accounts.

India's retail inflation at 3-month low, IIP growth hits 14-month high In September, retail inflation decreased to its lowest level in three months as food prices stabilised, providing muchneeded relief from rising price pressures. In August, industrial production growth reached a 14-month high, driven by a strong manufacturing sector. Retail inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), increased an annual 5% in September, according to data issued by the National Statistical Office (NSO), slower than the 6.8% increase in August and below the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) 6% upper tolerance zone. The food price index decreased from nearly 10% in the previous month to 6.6% this month. Inflation in rural areas was 5.3%, compared to 4.7% in urban areas. Moderation in prices was

largely led by an easing of vegetable and cooking gas prices. Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the government has already taken preemptive measures to restrain food inflation, which is likely to subside price pressures in the market soon. RBI governor Shaktikanta Das said the September retail inflation data was in line with the central bank’s internal assessment and said the sharp spike in the past was a temporary phenomenon. But due to active cooperation, they knew it was a temporary spike and it would moderate in two months. We did not do a knee-jerk reaction and continued with the pause. But they were directly engaged with the government, which undertook certain measures (to cool down prices).

RBI bars BoB from adding app users over onboarding lapses The RBI has directed Bank of Baroda not to add customers to its mobile app following lapses in the onboarding process. The central bank took this measure in response to accusations that some BoB personnel had enrolled consumers for mobile banking using the mobile numbers of strangers in order to reach enrollment goals. The bank has been instructed to take precautions to prevent any disruptions for users of the current app. In terms of active mobile banking users, Bank of Baroda ranks second among public sector banks and third among stateowned financial institutions. “This action is based on certain material supervisory concerns observed in the manner of onboarding of their customers onto this mobile application. Any further onboarding of customers of the bank on the ‘BoB World’ application will be subject to rectification of the deficiencies observed

and strengthening of the related processes by the bank to the satisfaction of RBI,” the regulator said in a statement. “While the bank has already carried out corrective measures to address the concerns of RBI, we have initiated further steps to plug any remaining gaps identified and we will work closely with RBI to address their concerns at the earliest to their satisfaction,” Bank of Baroda said in a statement. The bank said that new customers will have access to other digital channels, including net banking and WhatsApp banking, besides debit cards and ATMs. BoB had said earlier that it has checks in place to ensure the app cannot be linked to a mobile number more than once. The lender had also said that customers need to follow a two-factor authentication process to register or update a mobile number.

Bharti Group to buy out French partner AXA’s stake in JV The French insurer AXA's 49% investment in Bharti AXA Life Insurance Co. will be acquired by Bharti Group, the Indian conglomerate announced, assuming full control of a business that has been managed jointly for nearly two decades. It wasn't immediately obvious if the agreement signifies the French insurer's departure from the nation of South Asia. Bharti said that it was in discussions with other investors to expand the company through alliances or mergers with other businesses. The sector has seen a spate of deals this year as a booming stock market is helping insurers lock in profits from their investments and consolidate their operations in a market dominated by the state-backed Life Insurance Corporation of India. British United Provident Association (BUPA) is set to become the majority owner of Niva Bupa Health Insurance after it struck a deal to buy a

Sunil Bharti Mittal

portion of PE firm True North’s stake in the JV. In an effort to take advantage of the relatively unexplored insurance market in India, the billionaire Burman family is also looking to purchase an additional share in Religare Enterprises for roughly 26%. Bharti’s JV deal, made through its Bharti Life Ventures arm, is expected to close by December this year, subject to regulatory approvals. The company competes with HDFC Life Insurance, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance, SBI Life Insurance and LIC in a market ranked ninth in the world, according to the insurance regulatory body’s latest annual report.

Akasa gets nod to fly to Saudi, Kuwait & Qatar The government has given Akasa airlines flying permissions for three nations - Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar - so that they can start conducting international operations this winter. The airline must wait to launch flights to Dubai, the

top overseas destination for Indian travellers, because all bilateral agreements for Dubai have been used up. Akasa has to apply for being a designated airline from India to the government. Once that status is given, other countries will be informed about the same.

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in brief

Pakistan rounds up Afghan refugees for deportation QUETTA: Both Aamir Muhammad and his neighbours have scarcely left their homes in recent weeks. The terror is evident in his run-down suburb on the outskirts of the Pakistani city of Quetta, where hundreds of Afghan refugees have settled. Like many here, Muhammad, 47, is an illegal refugee who fled Afghanistan after the country fell to the Taliban in 2021. He and 14 family members crossed the border into Quetta out of fear for the harshness of the Taliban government and for the security of her children. Together, they all reside in a small mud hut in terrible poverty in Pakistan, but he is able to obtain employment and food,

and his wife has freedom that she would not have in Afghanistan. However, Muhammad is now afraid that the police may take him from his house. An unexpected declaration was

Bangla PM's daughter in fray for WHO post sparks nepotism debate DHAKA: Greater transparency and oversight in the selection of the WHO's regional directors have been requested in letters from more than 60 global and public health professionals. The letter is set against the backdrop of the election for the position of regional director of South East Asia, which has caused significant controversy due to Bangladesh's nomination of Salma Wazed, the daughter of the current prime minister, as one of the candidates, even though it makes no mention of the current election for the various regional offices. The letter asked for “rigorous validation of the qualifications, competencies and claims of candidates”. As the current director of the office of South East Asia Region (SEARO) Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh’s tenure comes to an end, the two contenders for the post are Salma Wazed and Dr Shambhu Prasad Acharya of Nepal. With a

PhD in public health, Dr Acharya has worked with the WHO for more than 30 years. Wazed specialises in autism and holds a master's degree in psychology. Her title includes an honorary doctorate from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, which she received in March 2023. Wazed’s nomination has sparked charges of nepotism and raised questions about the way candidates are chosen for the post. Critics have pointed out that she does not have “strong technical and public health background and extensive experience in global health” as required by the official criteria for the role. She has refuted these allegations, claiming that for almost a decade she has served as a member of the WHO's Expert Advisory Panel on Mental Health and as a mental health and autism advisor to the director general of the WHO.

issued earlier this month by the Pakistani government, telling any migrants who were staying in the country illegally to leave within 28 days or face arrest and expulsion. Though Afghans were not

mentioned directly, it was clear they are the target of the draconian policy, and thousands have been rounded up and harassed since then. Muhammad says all that awaits him in Afghanistan is death. “Life is not possible there – we won’t get a shelter for our family nor will we have resources to earn there,” he says.“Even if the Pakistani authorities arrest me and send me [to Afghanistan], I will try to come back,” he adds. Brightly painted trucks piled high with household goods wait in a line as men mill about The belongings of Afghan refugees deported from Pakistan wait in trucks to cross the Torkham border last week.

Canada allows entry of Sikh man who sheltered Khalistani militants in India OTTAWA: A Sikh man who housed and fed Khalistani terrorists in India for more than 10 years has been granted entry into Canada, according to a Canadian immigration tribunal. This decision was made because, as reported in the media, he only offered help out of need and out of fear of reprisals. An Indian citizen named Kamaljit Ram was recently declared inadmissible to enter Canada based on claims that he provided a "safe house" and "logistical support" to Khalistani militants, according to Heidi Worsfold, a member of the Immigration and Refugee Board tribunal. However, Worsfold found that the Canadian government lacked sufficient evidence to support this claim. The tribunal's verdict affirms that this Sikh individual, who sheltered and provided sustenance to armed Khalistani militants in India for over a decade, should be permitted entry to Canada due to his primary motivation being necessity and a fear of retaliation, according to the newspaper. The federal government first decided to prevent Ram from entering Canada after he admitted during an interview with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) investigators that he had irregularly housed and fed armed Sikh militants at his farm in India between 1982 and 1992. He also told officers that he supported the ideas promoted by followers of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a Sikh militant and leading figure of the Khalistani movement, for a separate Khalistan state and “other social issues,” according to the report. Worsfold concluded that the government's evaluation of Ram's support for the armed militants at that time was overly harsh, failing to acknowledge that he repeatedly stated that he agreed to host these armed individuals because he "feared the consequences" of being on the opposing side of the group.

Indian origin among young women leaders recognised by Jill Biden WASHINGTON: Gitanjali Rao, a teen, and 14 other young women leaders were recognised by US First Lady Jill Biden for instigating change and paving the way for a better future in their local communities around the country. Marking the International Day of the Girl, 17-year-old Rao was honored at the first-ever “Girls Leading Change” celebration at the White House to recognise the efforts of young women in strengthening the country for generations. “It is my honor to celebrate this exceptional group of 'Girls Leading Change' at the

White House,” Jill Biden, an educator for more than 30 years, said. “These young women are protecting and preserving the earth, writing and sharing stories that change minds, and turning their pain into purpose. Together, they represent the potential of young people across the country, and it is my hope that others can learn from the power of their innovation, strength, and hope,” she said. Rao, a first-year student at MIT, is a scientist and inventor whose ground-breaking lead contamination detection gadget earned her

Taliban to join China’s Belt and Road forum KABUL: The Taliban will attend China’s Belt and Road Forum next week, a spokesman said, underscoring Beijing’s growing official ties with the administration, despite its lack of formal recognition by any government. Taliban officials and ministers have at times travelled to regional meetings, mostly those focussed on Afghanistan, but the Belt and Road Forum is among the highest profile multilateral summits it has been invited to attend. The forum in Beijing marks

the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping’s ambitious global infrastructure and energy initiative, billed as recreating the ancient Silk Road to boost global trade. The Taliban’s acting minister for commerce and industry, Haji Nooruddin Azizi, will travel to Beijing in the coming days, ministry spokesman Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad said in a text message. The impoverished country could offer a wealth of coveted mineral resources.

the EPA Presidential Award and the Discovery Education/3M America's Top Young Scientist title. Her book, "Young Innovator's Guide to STEM," which gives a five-step invention process that is prescribed, is used as a STEM curriculum in some schools throughout the world. “Rao is committed to not only continuing her career as a scientist and inventor, but expanding her STEM education initiative, which has already touched more than 80,000 elementary, middle, and high school students,” the White House release said.

NAWAZ SHARIF TO REACH PAKISTAN ON OCT 21 Former PM Nawaz Sharif will reach Pakistan in a chartered plane from Dubai on October 21, ending his four-year-long self-imposed exile in the UK, according to a media report. The flight carrying Nawaz will have the name “Umeed-ePakistan” which can carry approximately 150 passengers, Geo News reported. “The booking has been made and all arrangements are in place,” the report said. The three-time PM is expected to lead his PML-N party in the general elections likely to be held in January next year.

JOURNALIST DETAINED IN CHINA RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who had been detained in China on national security charges for more than three years, returned home after being released, Australia’s PM Anthony Albanese said. Cheng, 48, was a business anchor for Chinese state television when she was detained in August 2020 for allegedly sharing state secrets with another country. Cheng, who was tried in secret in 2022, arrived in Melbourne and has been reunited with her two children and family. China’s state security ministry, for the first time giving details of the charges against Cheng, said she had pleaded guilty to charges of illegally sending state secrets abroad related to her work for a state media outlet. She had been deported after serving her sentence of two years and 11 months.

IN US, CAR RAMS INTO CHINA CONSULATE; DRIVER SHOT DEAD A car rammed into the Chinese consulate in San Francisco, coming to a stop in the lobby and creating a chaotic scene that ended with police shooting the driver, who later died at the hospital, officials said. Police descended on the consulate building after a report of a vehicle crashing into the building and urged people to avoid the area. Officers entered the lobby of the consulate’s visa office, made contact with the suspect and there was a shooting involving an officer and the driver, police Sgt. Kathryn Winters said. The suspect was pronounced dead at the hospital, police said. Television cameras showed a Honda sedan crashed into the visa office. Winters said they had no reports of other injuries.

CHINA CHASES AWAY PHILIPPINE NAVY SHIP China’s coast guard claimed to have chased away a Philippine navy ship from a disputed shoal in the South China Sea as tensions between the two countries over rich fishing areas escalate. Coast guard spokesman Gan Yu said the Philippine ship had sailed into waters next to the Scarborough Shoal, which China calls Huangyan Island, and ignored “multiple calls” to turn back. “The Chinese coast guard took necessary measures to expel the Philippine ship in accordance with the law, ” Gan said. In Manila, the Philippines’ military chief of staff, Gen Romeo Brawner Jr, said authorities were still looking into the alleged incident but think it was more likely “propaganda from the Chinese” than an actual confrontation.

Afghan quake toll revised to 1,000, fresh tremors cause panic

WOMAN STABS 3 AT US AIRPORT

HERAT: The Taliban administration in Afghanistan reduced the number of people killed by a series of earthquakes to "over 1,000" as people in villages destroyed by the tragedy became alarmed by new tremors. After last week's earthquakes, thousands of people were spending a fourth night outside in the provincial capital of Herat when the most recent earthquake struck at dawn, about 30 km to the north. “It’s horrible, the whole of Herat is terrified,” said 32-year-old Abdul Qudos. “We are so scared that even when we see the trees moving (in the wind), we think it’s another earthquake coming.” Disaster management officials initially put the death toll of the weekend quake at 2,053. But public health minister Qalandar Ebad attributed the confusion to the remoteness of the area and double reporting during the rescue effort. He added that 2,400 people had been injured.According to Herat Regional Hospital's ambulance manager, Abdul Zahir Noorzai, some of the injured were struck by the debris of previously demolished dwellings.

In a shocking incident, a woman from the United States stabbed three people, including a police officer and a cab driver, inside the HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. In the terrifying video, passengers are seen just a few feet away from Damaris Milton, aged 44, as she waved the knife in the direction of a police officer. The outlet stated that police were alerted about a lady "who stood outside the security checkpoint near the airport's south terminal". The woman first attacked her taxi driver when she arrived at the airport. Later, as the police tried to "limit her movement, she attacked an airport clerk and a police lieutenant. She was arrested and taken into custody and an investigation is underway.

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BAPS opens largest Hindu temple with a beautiful ceremony in New Jersey NEW JERSEY: The Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, was officially opened by BAPS, a global spiritual and humanitarian organisation, in a beautiful ceremony that filled hearts with appreciation and love. The largest Hindu mandir in the United States was gifted to the world during this historic occasion, which was attended by hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world. It also marked the unveiling of a magnificent Hindu mandir. BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, a masterpiece of Hindu art, architecture, and culture, is proof of the Indian community's rich legacy and traditions. It acts as a link between the broad American audience and the Asian Indian diaspora by allowing everyone to discover the spiritual and cultural riches that are housed within its holy walls. The great dedication event was amazing to see and was a celebration of dedication, laughter, and love. The joyous atmosphere that filled everyone's hearts was symbolised by the fireworks as they lighted up the night sky. The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham is a symbol of the blending of tradition and modernity, where the echoes of timeless knowledge reverberate in perfect harmony with the lively energy of the present. Seeing the fireworks that go up, Harish Patel, a BAPS volunteer from Washington, DC said, "This moment is going to be etched in stone in my heart forever." Palak Shah, a New Jersey resident said, “I have a flood of emotions right now. The moment we were waiting for year is finally

The Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey

here.” In a world where birthday presents are typically received, the spiritual guru of BAPS, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, chose to give a remarkable gift to

Maryland mentioned, “This mandir is magnificent. We marvel at its immense size. We admire the craftsmanship behind the thousands of carved elephants, peacocks and other sculptures. But

49 feet tall Tapomurti Shri Nilkanth Varni Murti

the world on his 90th birthday. In his blessings, Mahant Swami Maharaj stated, “It was Pramukh Swami Maharaj's divine wish to construct an Akshardham in North America, where people can come and visit, irrespective of race, creed or religion.” In his address to the audience, US Congressman Steny Hoyer of

what I find most extraordinary is the community that built it.” Admiring the dedication of the volunteers and their selfless service, Congressman Hoyer continued, “They did it because they believe in the values this structure represents: equality, liberation, truth, harmony, and most importantly, service to others. The val-

Gaza border remains shut as Israel warns of a ‘long war’ JERUSALEM: With a diplomatic breakthrough increasingly uncertain, the Gaza Strip faces an intensifying humanitarian crisis as more than half a million people fled their homes for the enclave’s south amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes and shortages of critical supplies like water and fuel. Both Israel and Hamas dismissed talk that they had agreed to a ceasefire - humanitarian or otherwise. Israel has vowed to annihilate the Hamas that rules Gaza, after the Oct 7 Hamas assault that killed over 1,300 Israelis. It has put Gaza, home to 2.3 million Palestinians, under a total blockade and pounded it with unprecedented air strikes, and is widely expected to launch a ground assault. Gaza authorities say at least 2,750 people have been killed there, including mainly civilians. Power is out, sanitary water is scarce, and the last fuel for emergency generators could be used up within a day. In a speech to parliament, PM Benjamin Netanyahu said Israelis should prepare for a long battle, and delivered a warning to Tehran and Hezbollah in which he referred to the 2006 war, which displaced a million Lebanese. “ I have a message for Iran and Hezbollah, don’t test us in the north. Don’t make the same mistake you once made. Because today the price you will pay will be much heavier.”

Will demolish Hamas: Netanyahu Palestinians across Gaza were struggling for survival, with hundreds of thousands heeding Israel’s order to evacuate south. Water ran out at UN shelters and doctors warned many could die as entire hospital facilities would be shut down. The toll from Israeli strikes stood at 2,670 so far, the Gaza health ministry said. Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu convened a meeting of the emergency cabinet and vowed to “demolish Hamas” as his military readied for ground attack. There were concerns the situation could escalate into a wider conflict across the region. 2 Israeli officers and 10 nepali student died In a tragic attack carried out by the Palestinian militant group Hamas earlier this month, at least two Israeli women security personnel of Indian descent died, according to community sources. Lieutenant Or Moses, 22, a commander in the Home Front Command, from Ashdod and inspector Kim Dokraker, a Border Police officer in the police’s Central District, were killed in the attack. Ten Nepali citizens were killed in Kibbutz Alumim, the Himalayan republic's embassy in Tel Aviv said. The Kibbutz was hosting 17 students at the time of the attack. India backs Palestine state, but slams Hamas India sought to put its stance on the situation in perspective as it

sought adherence to international humanitarian law and urged the international community to fight terrorism in all of its forms and manifestations amid concerns that there would be additional bloodshed in the Israel-Hamas conflict and reports that Israeli forces may invade Gaza. In a delicate balancing act, as it broke its silence finally, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) reiterated India’s support for a sovereign, independent and viable Palestine state while describing the Hamas assault on Israel that led to the present situation as terrorist attacks. Indian TV actor says cousin, her spouse killed TV actor Madhura Naik, known for her work in ‘Naagin, ‘Uttaran’ and ‘Breathe’, said her cousin, Odaya and her husband were killed by Hamas terrorists. She posted on Instagram that the two were killed right in front of their kids.

The Akshardham temple is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Visitors can learn about Hinduism and Indian culture through the temple's exhibits and programs. Some other facts about temple: It has 40 small Fasnakar style shikhars (spires); has 2 large and 8 small ghummats (domes); has 98 sthambhas (carved pillars); has 66 intricately carved peacock style arches; has 144 carved sacred figures; has 58 decorative ceiling designs; has 34 decorative grills; has 91 elephants with varIdol of Bhagwan Swaminarayan installed at ious musical instruments and the temple flowers; has 44 Ganesh Murtis ues enshrined here are not just portrayed offering devotion to Hindu values, they are human valBhagwan; has 13,499 individual ues.” carved stone pieces; it is 42 feet The temple is spread over 183 tall, 87 feet wide, and 133 feet long. acres and features over 10,000 The temple was built over a statues and carvings. The main period of 12 years by over 12,500

(L-R) Swami Paramatmanandaji (Founder Acharya of Asha Vidya Mandir), John Carney (Governor, State of Delaware), Pujya Ishwarcharandas Swami, HH Mahant Swami Maharaj, Pujya Bhaktipriyadas Swami, Steny Hoyer (US Congressman, Maryland), Andy Kim (US Congressman, New Jersey), Randhir Jaiswal (Consul General of India, New York)

shrine is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a Hindu deity who lived in the 18th and 19th centuries. Other features of the temple include a cultural centre, a multimedia theatre, and a heritage museum. The temple also has a large garden with a variety of plants and flowers.

volunteers from all over the world. The temple is made entirely of marble and limestone. The temple complex includes a main shrine, nine shikhars (spire-like structures), nine pyramidal shikhars, and the largest elliptical dome ever constructed from stone. The main shrine houses a 32-foot-tall statue of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Airstrike at al-Ahli Arab Hospital claims 500 lives GAZA: An Israeli airstrike targeted a densely populated hospital compound in central Gaza, resulting in estimated 500 casualties. This tragic incident, if verified, would mark one of the deadliest Israeli airstrikes since 2008, with victims including both patients and Palestinians seeking refuge inside the hospital. The assault on the al-Ahli Arab Hospital drew swift international condemnation, as distressing images of blazing rooms and overloaded stretchers inundated news outlets and social media platforms. Israel's military has refuted any involvement in the strike, instead attributing it to the Islamic Jihad group.“An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close prox-

imity to the al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit,” a spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces said in a statement.“Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza.” This latest update comes in on Tuesday as US President Joe Biden arrives in Israel the next day. UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak might also visit Israel this week itself.

At least 6 break-ins at Hindu temples in Ontario province ONTARIO: Durham Regional Police reported that at least six burglaries took place at different temples in the area. While three incidents took place this month, three additional temples were targeted in September. According to a press release from Durham Police, there were allegations of multiple break-ins at three temples within its jurisdiction in the early hours of October 8. These have been named as the Hindu Mandir Durham in Oshawa, the Sankat Mochan Mandir in Ajax, and the Devi Mandir in Pickering.

The Devi Mandir was spared from theft from the donation boxes as the priest living in the premises, Girish Khali, pulled the fire alarm which caused the suspect to flee. The three temples in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are the Chintpurni Temple in Brampton, which was targeted on September 9, Rameshwar Mandir in Caledon, robbed on September 18 and the Hindu Heritage Centre in Mississauga, on October 4. The guy behind the the burglaries was described by police as about 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing about 200 pounds.

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India resumes ferry service with Lanka after four decades Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the restoration of ferry service between Nagapattinam port in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka as a significant turning point in the two countries' relationship. Ferry services were once a vital link between the two nations, enabling trade, people movement, and the transportation of products for centuries. However, for security concerns, they were discontinued in the 1980s. The government stated that attempts to bring back ferry services between Tuticorin and Colombo in 2011 had to be shelved due to the lengthier

trip time and lack of commercial feasibility. “We are embarking on a new chapter in the diplomatic and economic relations between India and Sri Lanka. The launch of a ferry service between Nagapattinam and is an Kankesanturai

important milestone in strengthening our relations,” said Modi, adding that the service will bring alive historical and cultural links between the two countries. “Ferry services between India and Sri Lanka will connectivity, enhance

promote trade and reinforce the longstanding bonds between our nations,” he said. Modi and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe had agreed to restart ferry services during the latter’s visit to India in July 2023. Modi recalled that they had jointly adopted a vision document for the economic partnership. “Connectivity is the central theme of this partnership. It is for bringing our countries closer. It enhances trade, tourism and people-to people ties. It creates opportunities for the youth of both countries,” he said.

2016 Pathankot attack handler killed outside Pakistan mosque Three unknown assailants shot and killed top Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) terrorist Shahid Latif as he was reciting prayers in a mosque in Sialkot, Pakistan. Latif was the leader of the fidayeen team who attacked the Pathankot airbase in 2016. Latif, 53, who was on India’s ‘most wanted’ list and also a designated terrorist under UAPA, was shot from point blank range along with his brother at dawn soon after he had offered prayers at the Noor Madina mosque by shooters who had come on a motorbike and mingled with worshippers. Pakistan called the fatal attack on Latif, mirroring recent killings inside

Pakistan of others on India’s ‘wanted’ list, a terrorist act. Security sources verified that in addition to the attack on the Pathankot airbase, Latif alias Bilal, a senior member of the JeM's jihadi cast, had either authored or participated in the preparation of several terror acts, including the Pulwama attack in 2019 on a CRPF convoy. Even the recent Kokernag confrontation, in which two Army soldiers and a policeman died, had been linked by investigators to his fingerprints. This renowned jihadi's murder mirrored other terrorist shootings in

Pakistan. In the Al-Qudus mosque in Rawalkot, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, unidentified gunmen shot and killed high-ranking Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Riyaz Ahmad, also known as Abu Qasim Kashmiri, last month. Also shot at close range while saying Friday prayers was Kashmiri, who was responsible for the January terror incident in J&K's Rajouri district. Wanted terrorist and chief of Khalistan Commando Force, Paramjit Singh Panjwar, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen while he was out for a morning walk near his residence in Lahore in May.

India will bid to host 2036 Olympics, confirms PM Modi Following India's remarkable performance at the Asian Games, where the nation won an unprecedented 107 medals, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India would submit a proposal to host the 2036 Olympic Games, hoping to attract the largest sporting spectacle in the world to the nation. “Indians are very excited about hosting the Olympics Games. India will ldo everything in organising the 2036 Olympics,” Modi said during an address to the IOC Session delegation and a host of other invitees at the Jio World Convention Centre. The PM’s announcement comes after some of his cabinet ministers have, in the recent past, voiced the nation’s interest in hosting the

Narendra Modi

Summer Games. “This is the dream of 1.4 billion Indians. We want to fulfil this dream with your support. We are willing to host the 2029 Youth Olympics. I am sure India will get constant support from the IOC,” Modi said while declaring the 141st Session of the International Olympic

Committee (IOC). Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur indicated that the government would support an Indian Olympic Association (IOA) candidature for the 2036 Olympics in an exclusive chat with the media last December. Although Thakur identified Ahmedabad as a likely contender, Modi omitted to specify a potential host city. Gujarat had already indicated interest in serving as the Olympic host city. They have the necessary facilities, including hotels, hostels, airports, and sports facilities. The state of Gujarat has pledged to host the Olympics as well, according to sports minister, who spoke to the media.

Consecration of Ram Temple likely on 22 Jan

The consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is likely to be held on January 22 while the rituals for the gala event may start from January 17, five days in advance. Mahant Govind Dev Giri, the treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, stated that according to the 'panchang' (almanack), the 'Mrigashira Nakshatra' will begin to exist at 3:52 pm on January 22 and last until 4:58 pm on January 23. What makes the occasion more auspicious is that ‘Amrit Siddhi Yoga’ and ‘Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga’ are also coinciding with this period, said Giri. The occasion is most suited to the ‘Pran Pratistha’ (consecration) ceremony, he added.

The Trust had previously stated that Ram Lalla would ride into Ayodhya in a customised chariot and lead a large parade throughout the city before the consecration ceremony. The event will be run under the direction of Kashi scholars. temple Ayodhya movement fatality victims' relatives will also be invited to the consecration event. Additionally, representatives from well-known temples and monasteries from across the nation as well as experts in politics, arts, sports, and more will be invited. Representatives from Vaishno Devi, Kashi Vishwanath, Badrinath, Kedarnath and other prominent temples will be invited.

CJI to fast-track 250 long-pending cases The sensitive matter of sub-classifying the backwardness of communities within the scheduled caste category for quota redistribution is one of 250 matters that Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud has decided to dust off. These cases have been referred to either seven-judge or nine-judge benches and have been pending for decades. The oldest case among the petitions pending before a nine-judge bench is the one between Mineral Area Development Authority and Steel Authority of India - a batch of 84 petitions are pending since 1999. The set of 40 items associated with the case of the State of UP vs. Jai Bir Singh is the second largest of the 177 matters that must be listed phase-by-phase before nine-judge benches. However, the 73 matters, categorised into six groups and to be heard by seven judge benches, include several important issues - redistribution of quota within SC reservation depending on the backwardness of the communities; reconsideration of the SC’s five judge bench judgment in the Nabam Reba case through which the SC had restrained the Speaker from deciding disqualification petitions against MLAs if a motion for his own removal is pending; and the contentious issue of minority status of Aligarh Muslim University.

Cong releases list of 144 candidates for MP poll Delhi HC upholds arrest of NewsClick founder On the first day of Navratri, Congress unveiled its initial list of 144 candidates for the MP assembly elections, with a nod to numerology. In a mix that is heavily weighted towards youth, 69 of its 96 existing MLAs are running. Sixty five of the nominees were under the age of 50, including PCC president Kamal Nath. There are 19 women, six Muslims, 39 OBC, 30 ST, and 22 SC candidates in addition to the rest. Numerologists claimed "significance" in Congress' 144-strong list, pointing out that the digits total 9, correlating to Navratri and the timing of the announcement. Nearly two

months after the BJP took the lead by revealing a lineup of 136 candidates as of August 17, Congress released its first list of candidates. In Shivraj Singh Chouhan's stronghold of Budhni, the grand old party has fielded actor Vikram Mastal, who portrayed Hanuman in a 2008 TV series. Factional quotas appear to have been ignored, although some of the top leaders had their way in a few seats despite predictions of internal surveys. Two stalwarts former Speaker NP Prajapati and former Union minister Kantilal Bhuria – have been dropped.

Leader of the opposition Dr Govind Singh has been fielded at Lahar in Bhind district, while former BJP MP Bodh Singh Bhagat, who recently joined Congress, will contest the Katangi seat in Balaghat district. With the incumbent MLA Sanjay Shukla of the Congress receiving the nomination against Kailash Vijayvargiya of the BJP, Indore-1 is set to be a nailbiting contest. Another competitive race is anticipated in Jabalpur South, where the incumbent MP and former state BJP president Tarun Bhanot will face off against Tarun Bhanot.

The Delhi High Court upheld the remand and arrest of NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha and HR head Amit Chakravarty, ruling that the remand decision was legally sustainable and that there was no "procedural infirmity" or breach of any laws or constitutional principles in the arrests. Dismissing the petitions of Purkayastha and Chakravarty, Justice Tushar Rao Gedela said there was no mandate to furnish written grounds of arrest under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Both of them had contested their arrest and detention, claiming that they were not informed in writing

of the reason for their arrest at the time of the arrest or even later. Justice Gedela, however, held that the recent Supreme Court ruling on furnishing written grounds of arrest to accused booked under PMLA did not “squarely apply” in a case lodged under UAPA. The anti-terror law only spoke of the accused being “informed” about the reasons for arrest within 24 hours of being apprehended, he added. The judge, however, observed that it would be “advisable” for police to henceforth provide the grounds of arrest in writing to an accused after redacting “sensitive material”. “…The

offences which are alleged, fall within the ambit of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and directly impact the stability, integrity and sovereignty of the country and are of utmost importance since they would affect the national security,” the HC noted in its order. On the grounds that it was issued without their solicitors' presence, the petitioners had also challenged the ensuing remand order, which had placed them in seven days of police custody. Additionally, it was claimed that the trial court's remand order contained a "obvious discrepancy."

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More than 1,000 Indians flown back from Israel Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said between 1,000 and 1,200 Indians have been brought back to India by special flights so far. There are approximately 20,000 Indians in Israel, and all of them have been asked to register themselves with the Indian embassy so that it will be easy to know their locations in case they have to be evacuated, he said. Israel has got embroiled in a major conflict after militant group Hamas attacked it on October 7. "As per one estimation, there are approximately 20,000 Indians in Israel, and in the wake of the ongoing conflict, the Indian embassy there issued an advisory for them to remain cautious. We also told them to register

themselves with the embassy. For those who want to come back, we have arranged special flights to repatriate them to India. Till Monday, five flights have carried 1,000 to 1,200 Indians. We are evacuating those whose living there is risky," the minister said. All those registering with the embassy do not necessarily want to return to India,

he said. "But for us, the registration process is beneficial as we would be able to identify the exact locations of these Indians in Israel. Using GPRS technology, we have mapped the locations where exactly they are in Israel. We know how many Indians are in Tel Aviv, Gaza, and Ashkelon. We know the locations of Indian citizens," the minister added.

Shree Krishna Hospital in Karamsad organises walkathon Shree Krishna Hospital, Karamsad, organised a walkathon on October 8 to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the Bhanubhai and Madhuben Patel Cardiac Centre and to promote heart health in the community. More than 2,500 residents of Anand, Vallabh Vidyanagar, and Karamsad participated in the event organised in an effort to raise awareness of the growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). It tried to establish how walking and physical activity, in addition to a healthy diet & lifestyle can prevent from falling prey to heart ailments. The three km walk was flagged off by Prayaswinbhai Patel, Chairman and Managing Director of Elecon Industry. The participants were from all sections of society, including employees from Elecon Group of Companies, National Dairy Development Board, The Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, Indian Dairy Manufacturing Company Ltd, Vidhya Dairy, The Kaira district Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd (Amul), Anupam Mission, Rotary Club, Anand, Senior Citizen Club, Anand, Vithal Udyog Nagar Industrial Association and Charotar Gas Sahkari Mandli Limited. The walkathon was led by Prayaswinbhai Patel along with Atul Patel (Chairman Charutar Arogya Mandal), Jagrut Bhatt (Hon. Secretary, Charutar Arogya Mandal), Dr Utpala Kharod (Provost, Bhaikaka University), Dr Harish Desai (Registrar, Bhaikaka University), Jyoti Tiwari (Controller Academics), Dr Jitesh Desai (Medical Superintendent, Shree Krishna Hospital), Board of Trustees, doc-

Participants at walkathon

tors, students, NSS unit of the university and staff of Bhaikaka University. The walkathon began from H.M Patel Statue, near Nalini Arvind and T V Patel Arts College, Vallabh Vidhya Nagar to Town Hall Anand. Prayaswinbhai said, "It is an immense feeling when we see people from all walks of life participate in this walkathon to create awareness about healthy lifestyle & heart.” Atul Patel said, “There is an immense awareness gap when it comes to the health of our hearts. As a leading healthcare provider in the Charutar region, we have responsibility to support a healthy heart environment.” At the conclusion, a discussion about heart disease prevention and treatment was organised with professionals from the Bhanubhai and Madhuben Patel Cardiac Centre. senior cardiologist Dr Manish Tiwari, the head of the cardiology division, discussed cardiac surgery, cutting-edge cardiac surgery technologies, and how early detection of heart attack symptoms and prompt treatment can prevent heart attacks.

Rajasthan voting dates revised from 23 to 25 Nov due to wedding rush The Election Commission of India (ECI) stated that the "wedding rush" caused a change to the voting schedule for the Rajasthan Assembly elections. The state will now cast its ballots on November 25, two days after the original election date of November 23. The Election Commission said in a statement that it had received requests to change the elec-

tion date from a number of political parties, including Jodhpur BJP MP PP Chaudhary, social organisations, and several media outlets due to a significant wedding or social event scheduled for that day. The rush to get married could inconvenience a lot of people, create logistical problems, and lower voter turnout in the election, it continued. After taking

into account these arguments and reasons, the Commission made the decision to move the election day from November 23 to 25. According to Chaudhary, over 50,000 weddings are planned for November 23. Votes polled will be counted as scheduled on December 3, along with the four other states that will go to polls next month.

Past govts feared enemy, ignored border areas: PM Modi In his speech to a crowd of almost 60,000 people in the Himalayan town of Pithoragarh, which borders China and Nepal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that "unlike previous governments, development of border areas was on his priority list." In the last nine years, he remarked, "We have built 4,200 km of roads along the borders, 250 new bridges, 22 tunnels and soon trains will be able to reach the border areas." The PM added: “You must be wondering what wrong you have done that villages are getting deserted. You have not done wrong but are suffering due to the

Narendra Modi

wrong policies and decisions of previous governments. They had a strange logic that if they develop border areas, our enemies may penetrate inside the country using these routes. Governments earlier called such areas the last village, we call them the first village. With the change in vision, we are confident of reverse migration. New India

either fears anything, nor does it induce fear in others.” Interestingly, Modi dropped his usual “bhaiyon aur behno” (brothers and sisters) phrase to use “parijan” (family members) while addressing the gather-

ing. Referring to the recent G-20 summit in Delhi, the PM said, “Even in the tough and challenging times across the globe, the voice of Bharat is getting stronger. When we just hosted the G-20, the entire world applauded us and our efforts. You, not I, have made it possible for the nation's image to alter.”

Indo-Pacific Minister strikes smart pacts during India visit Anne-Marie Trevelyan, the UK business innovation. Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Her trip included visits has recently concluded a threeto key institutions, such as day visit to India, during which the National Institute of two new technology initiatives Ocean Technology, where were formalized to enhance the she gained insights into quality of life and address cliIndia's deep-sea programs, Anne-Marie Trevelyan at the National mate change challenges. marine systems, and vessel Institute of Ocean Technology management. Additionally, Trevelyan's visit to Tamil she met with the Secretary of Tamil Nadu's Nadu, in southern India, aimed to strengthen Environment, Forest, and Climate Change bilateral relations between the UK and India department to further discuss the UK's partby focusing on environmental cooperation nership with the state on climate issues, and exploring cutting-edge technologies, parincluding the Climate Compatible Growth ticularly in the realm of climate innovation. Programme. At Anna University's Climate During her visit, the minister announced two Studio, she had the opportunity to review new technology partnerships with India innovative climate modelling systems used for designed to address global sustainability weather forecasting and rainfall prediction. issues and promote collaborative UK-India

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in brief

SOUTH INDIA

KCR unveils poll promises to counter Congress' guarantees HYDERABAD: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) unveiled its own set of promises ahead of the November 30 assembly polls to counter Congress’s “six guarantees”, setting the stage for a competitive electoral race as the party led by CM K Chandrasekhar Rao aims for a third consecutive win in Telangana. The party’s promises include various incentives for farmers and women, with plans to increase the Rythu Bandhu and Aasara pension amounts over time. Key proposals in the BRS manifesto include providing Rs 3,000 a month to poor women, offering LPG cylinder refills at Rs 400, and providing insurance to below poverty line (BPL) families and holders of white ration cards. “Eligible poor women would receive Rs 3,000 as assistance each month under the Soubhagya Laxmi scheme, excluding those who are employed,” KCR said. This is similar to Congress’s Maha Laxmi scheme, which offers women Rs 2,500 a month as aid. BRS also intends to introduce the “KCR Bima-Prati Inti ki Dheema” insurance scheme, set to begin next June. To attract women voters, KCR pledged to provide LPG refills at Rs 400 for each cylinder, in

K Chandrasekhar Rao

contrast to Congress’s promise of Rs 500. Acknowledging the significance of farmers’ support, BRS announced that the Rythu Bandhu amount would be incrementally increased to Rs 16,000 over the next five years, with Rs 12,000 in the first year. Aasara pensioners, a major vote bank for KCR’s party, will also benefit from the proposed increases, with plans to raise the pension to Rs 5,000 over time, starting at Rs 3,000 next year. Congress has promised to increase it from Rs 2,016 to Rs 4,000 if voted to office. Pension for disabled people would also be raised from the current amount of Rs 4,016 to Rs 6,000 a month, BRS said.

JD(S) Karnataka unit chief opposes tie-up with BJP

£4.2 MN RECOVERED FROM BENGALURU HOUSE

BENGALURU: Weeks after JD (S) and BJP announced an electoral tie-up for the coming general elections, Karnataka party unit president CM Ibrahim openly differed with party supremo HD Deve Gowda, claiming rights over the regional party and that he would “never approve of the alliance”. Ibrahim and many other functionaries, mainly those from minority communities, are upset with the party’s decision to join hands with BJP for the 2024 polls. Ibrahim and several other like-minded functionaries met on Monday. He said Gowda was not in favour of an alliance with BJP but he was “helpless” and had to accept it. Ibrahim said: “I’m the president of the party. The alliance cannot happen without my approval. JD(S) is not the preserve of a family. One person cannot make decisions. I have called a meeting of the core committee of the party to decide the next course of action. I will speak to all 19 MLAs personally and persuade them to oppose the alliance.” Sources claimed Ibrahim is in talks with JD(U) chief and Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, and that some state Congress functionaries are also backing him.

More than £4.2 million in cash was found hidden in 22 boxes under a bed at a house in Bengaluru. The cash was recovered following income tax raids on a former woman corporator and her husband. Telangana's Finance Minister Harish Rao has now linked the seizures to election funding in his state. The Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader claimed the money had been collected from builders, gold businesses and contractors in the name of Telangana tax and was part of £150 million being sent in from the neighbouring state to fund the Congress election campaign in the state led by Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao. "They are trying to pump money into Telangana to win the election here. They are even selling tickets. But they won't win here," Harish Rao alleged.

PUNJAB

Punjab, Haryana CMs fail to reach consensus on SYL canal issue CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his Haryana counterpart Manohar Lal Khattar failed to reach a consensus over the contentious Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) canal issue. A crucial meeting over the issue was held between the two CMs in Chandigarh. Mann clearly said that Punjab has no surplus water to share with Haryana. He sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s intervention to provide additional water to Haryana either from the Ganga or the Yamuna river basins to overcome its shortage. Haryana Chief Minister

Khattar categorically ruled out that any initiative to hold next round of talks between the Chief Ministers. Khattar said no consensus was reached at the meeting and they would now meet Union Water Resources Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to apprise him of the meeting. The meeting was held after the Supreme Court recently asked them to meet and find an amicable solution. Before the meeting, Khattar said residents of Haryana have the right over SYL water and he is affirmative that they will definitely get their right. “SYL water is very

important for Haryana. Now it is necessary to fix a timeline in this matter, so that the Manohar Lal Khattar and Bhagwant Mann availability of water according to the order of the to the farmers of Haryana can be government of India dated ensured.” March 24, 1976, 3.5 MAF of water It is well known that despite was allocated to Haryana out of two Supreme Court judgments, the surplus water of the RaviPunjab has not completed the Beas.Due to non-completion of construction of SYL. Instead of the SYL canal, Haryana is using implementing the decisions of only 1.62 MAF of water. Punjab is the apex court, Punjab tried to illegally using about 1.9 MAF of obstruct their implementation by water from Haryana’s share by enacting the Cancellation of not completing the SYL canal in Agreements Act in 2004. its region, an official statement Under the provision of quoting Khattar said. Punjab Reorganization Act, 1966,

WEST BENGAL

TMC MP accused of taking bribes for queries NEW DELHI: Accusing TMC MP Mahua Moitra of taking cash and gifts for asking questions, BJP’s Godda MP Nishikant Dubey has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to constitute an inquiry committee to probe the allegations made against her. Dubey, who has frequently sparred with Moitra, cited a letter from Jai Anant Dehadrai, an advocate, where he claimed that there was “irrefutable evidence” of “bribes” exchanged between her and Darshan Hiranandani, a business tycoon, to ask questions in Parliament. “Since the instant episode is nothing but a re-emergence of ‘cash for query’ by Mahua Moitra, I humbly request your good self to constitute an inquiry committee, by following the past precedent,” Dubey wrote to the speaker in a reference to the disqualification of 10 members of LS in 2005 who had accepted money for raising questions. The MPs were disqualified within 21 days of the sting that exposed them. Dubey also requested that till an inquiry

MP Mahua Moitra

committee submitted its report, Moitra should be suspended from the House. Moitra reacted immediately on X, claiming that she had been targeted for raising alleged favouritism to the Adani group and referring to her own charge about Dubey’s educational qualification. “If Adani group is relying on a dodgy dossier created by dubious Sanghis and circulated by fake degreewallahs to either shut me up or bring me down, I would advise them not to waste their time. Use your lawyers wisely,” she said. She said multiple breaches of privileges were pending against “fake degreewala” and other luminaries. “Welcome any motions against me right after Speaker finishes dealing with those,” she said.

Shah vows to keep fighting corruption in Bengal KOLKATA: Union home minister Amit Shah said that he would “keep coming back to Bengal” to fight against corruption and “bring change” to the state. The minister, who came to Kolkata on a brief visit to inaugurate the Santosh Mitra Square puja, themed on the Ram Mandir, said Bengal had sent a message to the world even before the temple was inaugurated in Ayodhya. “I have not come here to deliver any political speech. This is an occasion when I seek blessings of Goddess Durga. Today, I will pray for a corruption and oppression-free West Bengal,” Shah told the gathering. Shah, who came to the city for Durga Puja after two years, said, “We will inaugurate the Ram Mandir at Ayodhya in January. But I can see the replica of the mandir here. Uttar Kolkata has inaugurated the temple even before that. This is Bengal’s message to the entire world,” Shah said. BJP president J P Nadda is also likely to visit Kolkata during the pujas. Drawing a connection with Lord Ram’s “Akal Bodhan” and Bengal’s “asmita”, Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar said that the untimely worship of Goddess Durga by Lord Ram before he killed Mahishasur paved the way for Akal Bodhan. “Akal Bodhan is celebrated in the most gorgeous way in Bengal. That is how the state connects with Lord Ram. Those who term Ram as an outsider should take a lesson from that,” he said. Shah had earlier asked Bengal BJP politicians to celebrate Durga Puja in a bigger way this year and increase their involvement. BJP has also started promoting puja pandals across the state as well as the achievements of the NDA government over the past nine years.

ED TAKES POSSESSION DMK LEADER A RAJA'S ASSETS The Enforcement Directorate said it has taken possession of 15 immovable properties, including a 45-acre land in Coimbatore worth around £5.5million, as part of a money laundering investigation arising from a disproportionate assets case against former environment and telecom minister and DMK leader A Raja, the main accused in the 2G scam who was acquitted. “Investigation established that the properties, including 45 acres of land at Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, were purchased directly using the proceeds of crime generated by A Raja,” the enforcement agency said. The land was purchased in the name of Kovai Shelters Promoters India Pvt Ltd, which, the agency claimed, is a benami company controlled by Raja, who handled important portfolios during the two UPA governments.

BAN ON DESTINATION WEDDING WITH SIKH HOLY BOOK Five Sikh high priests have prohibited the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib during destination weddings at places like sea beaches and resorts. In a meeting at the Akal Takht secretariat, they disqualified the management of a gurdwara in Bathinda for conducting a same-sex marriage ceremony in the presence of the holy book. Akal Takht jathedar Giani Singh said the secretariat had received numerous complaints against solemnising of “Anand Karaj” at sea beaches and resorts in the presence of the Sikh holy book, which was a violation of maryada (Sikh code of religious conduct). He said that the Sikh high priests had decided to impose a ban on such destination weddings.

ACADEMICS APPEAL AGAINST STUDENT’S SUSPENSION Over 250 academics have written to President Droupadi Murmu protesting a Visva-Bharati student’s suspension over a social media post supporting Amartya Sen in the Nobel laureate’s land row with the varsity. Murmu is also the visitor of the central varsity. The academics have appealed to Murmu to protect the academic career of Somnath Sow, a Dalit PG student. The letter says Sow was suspended without any formal complaint, and the Visva-Bharati authorities did not issue a chargesheet. Sow appeared before a “kangaroo court” on March 24, requesting access to the documents but wasn’t provided any.” Four months later, he received a suspension letter on July 26 from the proctor for the third semester. The loss of the third semester means in effect loss of one academic year,” the letter states.

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Terrorism for whatever reason is against humanity, says PM Modi PM Narendra Modi urged a firm reaction to terrorism and opposed attempts to defend it on one pretext or another. He also cautioned that terrorists had benefited from the international community's ongoing failure to define what defines terrorism. “Now, the world is also realising how big a challenge terrorism is. Wherever terrorism strikes, for whatever reason and in whatever form, it is against humanity. In such a scenario, we all will have to be extremely stringent all the time

interpreted as a rejection of the “root cause” alibi often proferred to support and rationalise acts of terrorism. “This is the time for peace and brotherhood, a time to move together, a time to move forward together. This is the time for growth and well-being. We have to Narendra Modi overcome the global regarding terrorism,” Modi said, trust deficit and move forward on his strong statement also being human-centric thinking,” Modi

India, Italy ink agreement to boost defence cooperation An agreement was reached between India and Italy to encourage cooperation in the areas of defence, security, marine domain awareness, research and development, information sharing, and industrial collaboration, including joint ventures for the development and manufacturing of military systems. This came after defence minister Rajnath Singh held delegation-level talks with his Italian counterpart Guido Crosetto in Rome, where the two sides discussed a host of defence

cooperation issues, including military training, maritime exercises and maritime security. “The focus was on the opportunities in defenceindustrial cooperation. The two ministers discussed the complementary capacities of India and Italy in the defence sector and the possibilities of joint development. Singh suggested fostering the interaction of Indian startups with Italian defence companies,” an official said. Singh was travelling to Italy and France as part of a

two-nation tour to deepen bilateral strategic ties. Together with his French colleague Sebastian Lecornu, he will co-chair the fifth annual IndiaFrance defence discussion in Paris. The purchase of 26 French Rafale-Marine fighter jets and three more Scorpene diesel-electric submarines received preliminary approval, or "acceptance of necessity" (AoN), from the Singh-led defence acquisitions council on July 13, the day before the Modi-Macron summit in Paris.

Some groups working to harm our name, alleges Adani group Amid the allegations that Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra had asked questions in Parliament to target a business entity, the Adani group said some groups and individuals have been “working overtime to harm the company’s name, goodwill and market standing”. “In this particular case, the lawyer’s complaint reveals that this arrangement to besmirch the reputation and interests of the Adani group and our chairman Gautam Adani has been in place since 2018,” the group said in a statement. On Sunday, a lawyer, Jai Anant Dehadrai, had filed a complaint with the CBI alleging an “elaborate criminal conspiracy” by Moitra

and Darshan Hiranandani, CEO of Hiranandani group, for “specifically targeting” Gautam Adani and his group of companies through parliamentary questions. He had also alleged that Moitra had received “bribes and undue favours” from Hiranandani. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking an inquiry against Moitra and demanded her “immediate suspension” from the House. Moitra and the Hiranandani group have denied any wrongdoing. The Adani group said that on October 9, it had issued a media statement and said that “some foreign entities like the OCCRP,

supported by a section of the foreign media, shortsellers and domestic collaborators, have launched a series of attacks against the Adani group with the primary intent of dragging down its market value”. “In fact, these individuals and groups, bound by the common objective of damaging the Adani group, have developed a playbook which is being executed to perfection by a well-oiled and professional machinery working in sync both within India and abroad,” it said, adding that one tactic in their playbook included putting out media reports with “an uncanny ability to appear just before the hearing dates of important cases in India’s courts”.

SC to test power of RS chairman to bench MP Chadha The Supreme Court's decision to examine Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar's authority as the Rajya Sabha chairman in suspending AAP MP Raghav Chadha, who had included the names of six MPs, without their consent, in a proposed select panel to examine the Delhi services bill. Chadha was suspended on August 11, following the Rajya Sabha's approval of a resolution put forth by the leader of the House, Piyush Goyal. Goyal accused Chadha of falsely informing the House that six MPs (Narhari Amin, S Phangnon Konyak,

Sudhanshu Trivedi, Sasmit Patra, M Thambidurai, and S Niranjan Reddy) had agreed to be part of a 19-member select committee responsible for examining the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023. Chadha’s counsel, senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, told a bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra that even if one assumed that the charge of not taking consent of the MPs before including their names in the proposed panel

violated Rule 72 of the Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States, it did not amount to breach of privilege either of the MPs or of Rajya Sabha to warrant his suspension. Dwivedi raised a question regarding whether the Rajya Sabha chairman possessed the authority to suspend Chadha during the interim period by invoking the powers outlined in Rules 256 and 266, especially when the purported violation of Rule 72(2) was still under investigation by the privileges committee.

said. The Prime Minister specifically mentioned the Hamas attack on Israel, which he had previously described as a terrorist act, when speaking during the opening session of the ninth G20 Parliamentary Speakers' Summit (P20) in New Delhi. In his speech, Prime Minister Modi alluded to the December 2001 Islamist attack on Parliament and seemed to express India's resentment that the world had taken so long to acknowledge the anguish it had endured at the

hands of terrorists supported by Pakistan. “As you know, Bharat has been facing cross-border terrorism for decades. Terrorists have killed thousands of innocent people in Bharat, terrorists have also targeted our Parliament. And you will be shocked to know that Parliament was in session at that time. Terrorists had planned to take MPs hostage and to kill them. Bharat has reached here today after dealing with such terrorist incidents,” he said.

Zoho's Radha Vembu is India's richest self-made woman Radha Vembu, a co-founder of Zoho Corp., has surpassed Falguni Nayar, the founder and CEO of the online beauty and fashion shop Nykaa, to become the richest self-made Indian woman at this time. In a report named "India Rich List 2023: 360 One Wealth Hurun" was made available on October 10. According to the article, the 50-year-old businesswoman, whose net worth is estimated to be £3.6 billion, has become the richest selfmade Indian woman. Among the 100 richest people in India, Falguni Nayar came in at number 86 with a net worth of £2.25 billion, while Radha Vembu

Radha Vembu

came in at number 40. Hurun India Rich List 2023 states that Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani topped the list with a total worth of over £80 billion. According to the rich list, Ambani has surpassed Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani. On the other hand, among India’s top five soft-

ware entrepreneurs, Vembu ranked third while HCL’s Shiv Nadar and family topped the list. In addition to Radha Vembu's incredible journey to become India's richest self-made lady, Kaivalya Vohra, the 20-year-old cofounder of the grocery delivery service Zepto, has become the nation's youngest wealthy self-made person. Along with her brothers Sridhar Vembu and Sekar Vembu, Radha Vembu cofounded the software developing company Zoho Corp. in 1996. The company was initially named as AdvenNet but was later renamed to Zoho Corporation.

India, Russia in talks for Modi-Putin meet this year India and Russia are in talks for a summit meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin later this year, according to the sources. “It is being discussed. There are high level discussions going on,” said Indian ambassador to Russia Pavan Kapoor, according to a report by a Russian news agency.

The annual bilateral summit between India and Russia was unable to take place in 2017 due to the attention that the war in Russia and Ukraine received on a global scale. The two leaders did meet at the SCO summit in Samarkand the previous year, where Modi is credited with telling Putin that this isn't the age of war.

Putin skipped the G20 conference in India because, according to the authorities, he was preoccupied with Russia's "special military operation" in Ukraine. Russia was represented by foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in the summit that concluded with a joint declaration that was made possible by a consensus on the Ukraine war.

Ayodhya mosque to be named after Prophet Muhammad Prophet Muhammad and his father Abdullah would be honoured in the proposed mosque that will be built in place of the Babri Masjid, according to a group representing the All India Rabta-e-Masajid (network of mosques) and IndoIslamic Cultural Foundation, four years after the Supreme Court's ruling in the Ayodhya dispute. Set to be the biggest mosque in the country with a capacity to accommodate 9,000 worshippers, Masjid Muhammad Bin Abdullah’s foundation will be laid soon. The first brick for the mosque, to come up on a five-acre site at Daanipur, 25 km from Ayodhya, was gifted at an event in Mumbai. In its verdict on the decades-long dispute, the SC on November 9, 2019

awarded the disputed 2.77acre land to the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust and asked the government to give an alternative 5 acres of land for building a mosque. Senior clerics from various Islamic sects received the first brick during an event where the design was unveiled. The event at Rangsharda Hall in Bandra was attended by the chairman of the UP Sunni Central Waqf Board and the

Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation, Zufar Ahmed Faruqui, the architect Imran Shaikh, the actors Raza Murad and Shahzad Khan, the former chairman of the Maharashtra minority commission and Haji Arafat, as well as the heads and khadims of numerous dargahs across the nation. The event, said Shaikh, was the culmination of months of discussions among top ulema (religious leaders) regarding the name of the mosque. The mosque’s five gates will be named after Prophet Muhammad and the four Caliphs who succeeded him, namely Hazrat Abu Bakar, Hazrat Umar, Hazrat Usman and Hazrat Ali.

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THE ULTIMATE MALDIVES GETAWAY

he Maldives, situated in the Indian Ocean, is celebrated as a tropical paradise, renowned for its exquisite natural beauty and luxurious resorts, making it a highly sought-after destination for tourists. The islands have a total population of 521,021, with approximately 29,000 of these residents being Indians who have chosen to live and work in the Maldives. Around 22,000 of them call Malé, the capital city, their home. From breathtaking beaches to overwater bungalows, coral reefs and marine life, the island offers it all with added privacy and seclusion. This is perhaps why it has become a vacation hotspot, also frequented by celebrities looking to get away from the public eye. Located on North Malé Atoll is Dhawa Ihuru, a unique island retreat offering a harmonious blend of abundant natural beauty, local culture, warm hospitality, stylish comfort, and modern design, making it an ideal destination for the new generation of independent travellers. As part of the Banyan Tree Group, this retreat made its debut in the Maldives in January 2023. Conveniently located just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, this marks the establishment of the second Dhawa property.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru resort. Meanwhile, Dhawa introduces its signature 24/7 social hub, the Nest, where guests can connect with fellow holidaymakers while enjoying delectable refreshments at any time of the day or night. Sea enthusiasts will find their paradise at the water sports centre, offering such as windsurfing, activities wakeboarding, water skiing, and canoeing. Private sailing excursions take guests over the house reef for snorkelling adventures and dining on uninhabited islands. With 30 diving spots at the house reef and an on-

Amidst the picturesque azure waters, Dhawa Ihuru boasts signature vibrant interiors and a selection of laid-back dining venues designed to enhance natural immersion and local flavour connectivity, all set in stunning surroundings.

Enjoy a leisure vacation with an array of activities and attractions Nestled in the North Malé Atoll, Dhawa Ihuru presents a range of all-inclusive packages catering to diverse types of holidaymakers, from gastronomy enthusiasts and wellness seekers to marine adventurers and young families. For example: the innovative Twin Island dine-around concept provides travellers with the opportunity to explore premium dining at the neighbouring

site PADI 5-star Gold Dive Centre, guests can continually explore new dive sites and enhance their diving skills.

For those seeking relaxation after a day in the sun, the 8LEMENTS Spa offers authentic and rejuvenating treatments, including indulgent massages and revitalising body wraps. The resort's Activa facility features a fully equipped 24-hour fitness centre and a yoga room with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, catering to wellness-minded guests looking to stay active during their island getaway. Additionally, the resort offers a versatile meeting space for conferences and teambuilding activities.

Best of accommodations and experiences When it comes to accommodation, the villas at Dhawa Ihuru offer direct beach access and close proximity to the house reef- Beachfront Villa is a modern villa that provides ample outdoor living spaces and an intimate beachfront experience with sweeping views of the island's shoreline. The best time to visit the island is between November and April, avoiding the monsoon season. Accessibility to Dhawa Ihuru is facilitated by regular flights from London to Male. The resort is just a 20minute speedboat ride from Male, and a tourist visa is granted on arrival to travellers of all nationalities. For more information, please visit https://www.dhawa.com/maldives/dhawaihuru

"The Family Tree" -Sairish Hussain

The novel is poignant and deeply moving, delving into the complexities of immigrant experiences in contemporary Britain. At its core, this remarkable debut novel is a compelling exploration of identity, belonging, and the intricate web of family bonds that both nurture and constrain us. Hussain's narrative takes place in the heart of a vibrant, multiracial community in London and introduces us to the Pakistani-born Mirza family. Amjad and his wife,

Yasmeen, who immigrated to the UK in pursuit of a better life for their children, are the central characters of the story. Through vivid and authentic storytelling, the novel unravels the multifaceted challenges faced by the Mirza family, as well as the broader immigrant community they represent. One of the standout features of "The Family Tree" is its ability to capture the immigrant experience with a rare sense of empathy and authenticity. It clarifies the ambivalent identity that many immigrants experience: the yearning to blend into their new country while keeping their cultural background. Hussain masterfully portrays the conflicts and dilemmas faced by her characters as they navigate the fine line between their roots and their aspirations for a brighter future. The character development in the novel is exceptional. Readers who

have gone through or seen comparable circumstances will be able to identify with Amjad and Yasmeen's difficulties in supporting their families while upholding their cultural traditions. The story's emotional depth is extremely moving as it examines generational differences and the struggle between the old and the young. Through the eyes of the Mirza family, readers gain insight into the struggles of adapting to a new culture and the desire to maintain a sense of belonging within their immigrant community. This immigrant angle serves as a powerful lens through which to explore universal themes of love, loss, sacrifice, and the eternal quest for a place to call home. Sairish Hussain's writing style is both evocative and accessible. She seamlessly weaves a tapestry of emotions and experiences, creating a narrative that is engaging and thought-provoking. The

Book

novel's careful Review balancing act between heartfelt triumphs and agonising struggles keeps the reader immersed in the Mirza family's journey. "The Family Tree" is a notable contribution to literature since it vividly depicts the immigrant experience in Britain. Sairish Hussain's debut is a testament to how effective storytelling is at fostering empathy amongst various populations and bridging cultural divides. Whether you are an immigrant yourself or simply seeking a compelling narrative that will touch your heart and open your mind, "The Family Tree" is a mustread. It poignantly captures the experience of immigrants in contemporary Britain and serves as a gentle reminder that no matter where we come from, family, identity, and belonging are the common threads that bind us all.

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Potential new treatment may help alleviate cancer-related illness Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a serious but all-too-common illness that impairs patients' quality of life while they are undergoing therapy. As of right now, there are no effective pharmacological treatments for the collection of symptoms that make up CRF. Researchers at Yale School of Medicine's Yale Cancer Centre discovered in a recent study that the metabolism-targeting medication dichloroacetate (DCA) benefited animals with CRF without interfering with cancer treatments. The results pave the way for future CRF study that might ultimately result in a brand-new patient therapy. Senior author Rachel Perry, who is a member of Yale Cancer Center, said, "This study identifies dichloroacetate, an activator of glucose oxidation, as the first intervention, and particularly the first metabolism-focused intervention, to prevent the whole syndrome of cancer-related fatigue in preclinical models." The evidence points to a number of beneficial outcomes of DCA treatment, including a decrease in oxidative stress in the muscle tissue of tumor-bearing mice. When administered as an adjuvant medication to treat cancer-related fatigue, the researchers claimed DCA could one day revolutionise practise. "We hope that this research will provide the bedrock for future clinical trials using dichloroacetate -- an FDA-approved drug for another indication (lactic acidosis) -- to treat the debilitating syndrome of cancer-related fatigue," said Perry, who is also an assistant professor of medicine (endocrinology) and of cellular and molecular physiology at Yale School of Medicine.

Young people in higher education are at greater risk of depression, anxiety A recent study led by scientists from UCL found that young adults in higher education in England had a somewhat higher risk of depression and anxiety than do those who do not. The research article, which was published in The Lancet Public Health, is the first to show that college students have higher rates of depression and anxiety than their classmates. Lead author Dr. Gemma Lewis (UCL Psychiatry) said, "In recent years in the UK we have seen an increase in mental health problems among young people, so there has been an increased focus on how to support students. Here we have found evidence that students may have a higher risk of depression and anxiety than their peers of the same age who are not in higher education."They added, "The first couple of years of higher education are a crucial time for development, so if we could improve the mental health of young people during this time it could have long term benefits for their health and wellbeing, as well as for their educational achievement and longerterm success."

Add Chia seeds in your diet Abundant sources of vitamins, minerals, and potent antioxidants can be found in chia seeds. These antioxidants include kaempferol, chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and quercetin, among others. These nutrients contribute to a wide range of important health advantages, including enhanced heart and bone health, improved blood sugar control, decreased inflammation, and weight management. Health Views Disclaimer: The information provided is for general knowledge only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Alzheimer's disease linked to health issue we all experience NHS figures stated that there are currently over 900,000 people in the UK who are living with dementia, and that number is rising. Even while persons over 65 are most linked with it, people as young as 30 can get it. A recent study suggests that there may be a connection between illness and stress, a problem that we have all encountered. The study revealed that those with long-term diagnoses of depression or chronic stress are

four times more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, the most common type of dementia.

Black tea may help manage blood sugar levels, reduce diabetes risk New research suggests that by enhancing blood sugar regulation, regular black tea use may help lower the risk and advancement of type 2 diabetes. Researchers from Southeast University in China and the University of Adelaide in Australia found that people who drank black tea on a regular basis had a 47 per cent lower risk of type 2 diabetes and a 53 per cent lower risk of pre-diabetes. Co-lead author Associate Professor Tongzhi Wu from the University of Adelaide and The Hospital Research Foundation Group Mid-Career Fellow said, "The substantial health benefits of tea, including a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, have been reported in several studies over recent years, but the mechanisms underlying these benefits have been unclear." "Our findings hint at the protective effects of habitual tea drinking on blood sugar management via increased glucose excre-

tion in urine, improved insulin resistance and thus better control of blood sugar. These benefits were most pronounced among daily dark tea drinkers." The special method of making dark tea—microbial fermentation—may have positive benefits on metabolic regulation. Through this process, distinct bioactive compounds (such as alkaloids, free amino acids, polyphenols, polysaccharides, and their derivatives) may be produced that have strong antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties, enhance insulin sensitivity and pancreatic beta cell function, and alter the composition of gut bacteria.

Researchers at Sweden's Karolinska Institutet looked at data from 44,447 patients, ages 18 to 65, and tracked them for eight years to see how many of them received a diagnosis of the crippling illness. According to Axel C Carlsson, the study's last author and docent at the Department of Neurobiology,

Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, "the risk is still very small and the causality is unknown, but that said, the finding is important in that it enables us to improve preventative efforts and understand links with the other risk factors for dementia.” "It's very uncommon for people in this age group to develop dementia, so we need to identify all possible risk factors for the disease," Dr Carlsson added, as per the Daily Record.

Living in privately rented homes linked to faster biological ageing Researchers that analysed DNA revealed that living in a privately rented home is connected with double the ageing effect of obesity and half the ageing effect of smoking, suggesting that living in a privately leased home is linked to more fast biological ageing. Researchers from the Universities of Adelaide and Essex concluded that living conditions can "get under the skin" and have a major impact on health in their peer-reviewed study of 1,420 households in the UK. The Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health published their findings. Falling repeatedly into arrears and exposure to pollution were also linked to faster biological ageing – the cumulative damage to the body’s tissues and cells, irrespective of actual age. In participants in the ongoing UK Household Longitudinal Survey, a process known as

methylation was monitored. One of the main processes thought to cause human ageing is methylation. About 5m households live in privately rented accommodation in the UK – a figure that has doubled in the last 20 years. Costs are higher, conditions are worse and tenure is more precarious than in owner-occupied housing or socially rented housing. The study concluded: “Our finding that tenure is associated with faster ageing at nearly half the rate of that associated with current smoking and twice that with obesity suggests that our results may have clinical significance.”

Healthy carbohydrates options for diabetics Diabetes patients need to pay close attention to what they eat. Their recommended daily intake of carbohydrates is 45–60 grams for meals and 15–20 grams for snacks. Depending on your amount of exercise and medicines, the number may change. Since they elevate blood sugar levels, carbohydrates may be a perplexing dietary group for those with diabetes. In her recent Instagram post, nutritionist Karishma Shah said, "Managing diabetes through diet can be a bit of a puzzle, but I'm here to help you piece it

together. I've got some fantastic carb choices that can be a gamechanger for individuals managing diabetes." Quinoa: It is a versatile grain that's a complete protein. It is a

powerhouse of many important nutrients like fibre, folate, iron, magnesium, antioxidants, phosphorous, and zinc. Sweet potato: They are tasty and naturally sweet. They are also a great source of fibre and vitamins. Blood pressure is controlled, weight loss is aided, and digestion is aided by sweet potatoes. They are an excellent method to eat healthy carbs without being concerned about

those surges. Whole grain pasta: Diabetes should not stop you from enjoying pasta once in a while. If you crave pasta, you can go for the whole-grain version. This can also keep your blood sugar levels in check, considering it's comparatively lower on the glycemic index. Berries: They are nature's candy, full of antioxidants and fibre. Whether you toss them into yogurt or eat them alone, they are a delightful treat that won't send your blood sugar on a rollercoaster ride.

Top foods to increase metabolism and speed up weight loss A healthy metabolism ensures that food is properly utilised by your body and that you gain energy from it. When moving slowly, a person is more likely to gain weight as their body cannot burn as many calories and stores fat. Your metabolism slows down for a variety of causes, ranging from ageing to genetics. The best foods to assist increase metabolism are listed below. Soaked almonds: Starting your day with soaked almonds can boost your metabolism. They contain magnesium for energy

and release various enzymes, including lipase, that enhance the process. Protein: People on a highprotein diet may lose more

weight than those without. Protein is an essential nutrient that increases metabolism through the thermic effect of food (TEF). Black pepper: To receive your daily dose of piperine, which has thermogenic qualities, add black pepper to salads, soups, and curries. This implies that it may increase the body's metabolic rate, increasing calorie expenditure. Warm water: Drinking a

warm glass of water every hour can increase your metabolism. Researchers have found that having 500 ml of warm water before a meal increases metabolism by 30 per cent. Cinnamon: Adding a pinch of cinnamon to your green tea can help increase antioxidants, which in turn aids metabolism. Cardamom tea: Having cardamom tea post-lunch can be highly effective in boosting your metabolism. It also improves digestion and aids in the reduction of belly fat.

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Deepika shares first look from 'Singham Again' A

ctress Deepika Padukone has finally unveiled her cop look from the upcoming Rohit Shetty movie 'Singham Again.' Deepika wrote on Instagram, sharing two pictures of herself in uniform and wielding a gun, "Introducing… Shakti Shetty! Singham Again." In one photo, a bloodied Deepika is seen laughing out loud as she puts a revolver inside the mouth of a man whose hair she's seen grabbing with her other hand. Many bodies and car wreckage can be seen around them as a burning building stands in the backdrop. In another photo, Deepika is seen with a pistol close to her face and laughing into the camera. Many celebs have reacted to her look. Actor and husband Ranveer Singh called her "Lady Singham." He wrote, "Aag laga degi (She will burn it down)." He also took to Instagram to share Deepika's posters, writing, "AALI RE AALI… LADY SINGHAM AALI !!!!! (Fire emojis) SHAKTI SHETTY has arrived in the Cop-verse!!!!!" Last year, Rohit Shetty confirmed in an interview that Padukone will be boarding his cop universe with 'Singham Again.' The actor-director duo has previously worked on 2019's action-comedy 'Chennai Express' and recently collaborated for the song 'Current Laga' from Shetty's upcoming venture 'Cirkus.'

Amitabh Bachchan greets fans as he rings in 81st birthday Bobby Deol says he couldn't recognise himself in 'Animal' teaser S A

President honours Waheeda Rehman, Allu Arjun, Alia Bhatt and Kriti Sanon with film awards P

ctor Bobby Deol says he was fortunate to land a part in director Sandeep Reddy Vanga's upcoming 'Animal,' as it gave him an opportunity to act alongside Ranbir Kapoor. Bobby's appearance at the end of the movie teaser garnered much attention. Towards the end of the clip, he features in a chilling, nodialogue scene, leaving the internet impressed. He added, "I was really lucky that I got to be a part of Animal, I have resident Droupadi Murmu presented screen icon Waheeda Rehman with the loved Sandeep's work. prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award and honoured other winners of the 69th He is the only National Film Awards, including popular stars Allu Arjun, Alia Bhatt and Kriti Sanon. director who has The National Film Awards, celebrating the best in cinema for the year 2021, made the same were announced in August. Murmu stated during the ceremony held at Vigyan film twice and succeeded both the times. I want to do different characters and as I have said before, I want to break my image, get challenged and be very uncomfortable as an actor." "I am a big fan of Ranbir Kapoor. If there are two actors I am a big fan of, they are Ranbir and Alia and they are married to each other! So I was really excited to learn that Ranbir would be playing the main lead, and I knew it would be amazing working with him as I have always loved his work. It is an emotional, violent drama with love, romance and hate. Sandeep brings out different elements in characterisations which are so different from other filmmakers," he said. Opening up about his much-talkedBhawan that cinema is not simply a commercial and entertainment industry. about sequence in the teaser, Bobbys said 'Films are the most effective medium to spread awareness and sensitivity. Meaningful even he was shocked to see how menacing films depict the achievements as well as the problems of the society and the country,' the he looked in that shot. The actor recalled president said in her speech. that he hadn't even seen the monitor when 'The film fraternity gives us a vivid introduction to the diverse reality of Indian society they had filmed that particular scene due to through their films. Cinema is both a document of our society and a medium to improve a time crunch. it. Cinema artists are agents of change. They provide information about the country and "When I did that shot, I didn't even see connect citizens,' she added. the monitor. We were in a hurry to finish that The president congratulated Waheeda on getting the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and said that because to her talent and charisma, the actor had attained the highest level in moment. I saw the shot for the first time when the movie business. Waheeda, 85, dedicated the award to her 'dear film industry' and I saw the teaser and I was like, 'What?! This is its various departments. me?!' I am so glad about the response I have got While Arjun won the best actor award for the Telugu film 'Pushpa: The Rise', for this one shot. It just shows that the audience the best actress honour was shared by Alia and Kriti for Hindi films 'Gangubai wants to see me in something different. They want Kathaiwadi' and 'Mimi', respectively. This is the first National Award for all three to know what I am doing in that shot– I can't tell actors. you that, but I am definitely eating something."

cores of admirers waiting to catch a glimpse of Amitabh Bachchan had their wishes fulfilled as the iconic star emerged from his residence, Jalsa, to greet fans on his 81st birthday.

The megastar, who was dressed in a pink and black tracksuit, waved at fans and sometimes folded hands to express his gratitude for their love. His family members, including granddaughters Aaradhya, Navya Naveli Nanda and daughter-in-law Aishwary Bachchan, stood at the entrance of the residence. Amitabh Bachchan also posted a message for his fans on his official blog: “Your blessings my good fortune!” Later in the day, the screen icon greeted his admirers again after returning home from a temple visit. Dressed in kurta-pyjamas, Bachchan stepped outside the gates of Jalsa, which were decorated with flowers, to thank fans for turning up in huge numbers on the occasion of his birthday. His daughter and writer Shweta Bachchan Nanda shared a heartwarming post on her Instagram page. “Happy 81st Papa. Big shoes (and hugs) no one can manage to fill,” Shweta captioned a collage of her pictures with Bachchan. Navya, Shweta’s daughter, wished her grandfather in a post on Instagram Stories. She shared a photo with Bachchan, Aaradhya, brother Agastya and grandmother Jaya Bachchan. “Happy Birthday Nana,” she wrote in the caption.

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Urvashi Rautela loses 24-carat gold Ranbir iPhone during India vs Pak match recalls being 'whacked' by T his school principal A ctor Ranbir Kapoor has often pulled off onscreen pranks played by his characters. He recently revealed he was just as naughty in real life as well. Calling himself a "great copier," he said that while he was never caught cheating in school, there was one incident when he tried to sneak out of an ongoing class, only to get caught by the principal.

he much-awaited and watched India vs Pakistan cricket match ended triumphantly for the Men in Blue. And while fans took to social media to celebrate the success of the team, actor Urvashi Rautela had an unfortunate experience. The actor took to social media to report the loss of her 24-carat gold iPhone at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium during the match. Urvashi wrote to her X account, "Lost my 24 carat real gold i phone at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad! If anyone comes across it, please help. Contact me ASAP!" She also tagged the accounts of Ahmedabad Stadium and Narendra Modi Stadium in the post. While her post came from concern, it attracted several hilarious social media reactions. A user alluded to the viral dialogue from Tiger Shroff's Heropanti and wrote, "Chhoti bacchi ho kya?" Another user said, "Find my device se dhund lo (Find it using Find my device)." Another said, "There are Gold iPhones?" A comment read, "That match was costly." Another read, "My friend found one, I am not sure it's yours or not. will confirm ASAP." "Don't worry... Ahmedabad Police will 100% trace your phone and bring it back... as long as the phone is still serviceable." said another. "First Indian female actress to lose real gold iPhone. Pant give it back to her." wrote another user. On the work front, Urvashi was last seen in 'Inspector Avinash,' which also starred Randeep Hooda, Amit Sial, Abhimanyu Singh and Freddy Daruwala. The show was released on Jio Cinema on May 18.

Hrithik all praise for girlfriend Saba Azar's LFW performance

ctor Hrithik Roshan was left in awe of his girlfriend Saba Azad's performance at the recently held Lakme Fashion Week. He took to social media and posted a video of her singing onstage. He wrote, "That surrender! That's why the shine!" He also posted an adorable heart emoticon in the middle of the video. His comment comes amid trolling of Saba's performance. Most of the negativity came from people comparing the two. However, the actor-singer gave it back and even schooled one of them who asked her, "Are you mad." She responded, "I really must be, to keep waking up everyday in the wake the constant hate being sent my way and thinking maybe today will be a better day and smiling and carrying on - I must be mad cause maybe the world is actually just filled with people such as yourself, who sit behind the safety of their screens adding nothing but hate into the world - that's your legacy, that's what you're gonna leave behind :) chew on that buddy!!"

Salman recalls filming during Covid and dengue In a conversation on Hauser's YouTube channel, Ranbir went down memory lane to remember the incident. He said, "I think I was a great copier so I never got caught copying but I remember this one instance that I was in the seventh grade or eighth grade where I was crawling out of my class while the class was going on and while I was crawling the principle came and stood in front of me and I got the beating of my life, like he really whacked me and I still remember like us thappad ki goonj mere kaano mein abhi bhi sunayi deti hai. I still remember that moment. (The echo of that slap still resounds in my ears.)" The actor is often spotted playing football in Mumbai with his fellow actor-friends when he is not acting. Ranbir said that his love for football started back in school and that his mother, actor Neetu Kapoor, still has the paper cut-out of the first time he scored a goal during a school competition and got a mention in the newspaper. "My true calling was football. So, when I was selected for the football team, I was in the sixth grade and I remember that in our competition I scored a goal, and on the back page of The Times of India, all the interschool scorers' names used to come," recalled the actor. Ranbir will soon be seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's 'Animal,' which stars Anil Kapoor as his onscreen father. The movie highlights the toxic father-son relationship and how it shapes his character in times to come. The film also stars Bobby Deol and Rashmika Mandanna.

Kareena shares stills from Hansal Mehta's 'The Buckingham Murders'

ast week, actor Salman Khan joined the commentary Kareena Kapoor's latest project, 'The Buckingham Murders,' marked section at India vs Pakistan World Cup 2023 match on its premiere at the BFI London Film Festival. The actress shared several Star Sports and opened up about his love for cricket. pictures from the film sets, which feature her as Jasmeet Bhamra, a Also, promoting his upcoming film 'Tiger 3,' he detective and mother who, after losing her own child, must investigate the extended warm wishes to team India. murder of a 10-year-old in Buckinghamshire. Acknowledging the pressure on the Indian She shared a glimpse of her next character with a bunch of new pictures on team, Salman said, her Instagram account. In one of the pictures, she was seen looking out from a "Pressure toh bahot hi glass window, and in another, she was seen with a serious expression, waiting by hoga, you should go the table. A picture also showed her on the set with fog all over the place. out and stadium ke She wrote, "Jas was a character I have been waiting bahar maaro (There to play for the last 23 years, being a huge fan of the must be a lot of detective series genre… watching everything from pressure on the team. Karamchand to Helen Mirren in Prime Suspect to They must go all out Agatha Christie in Hercule Poirot to Kate Winslet in and hit sixes out of Mare of Easttown, I was just dying to be that detective the stadium)." "Full woman. On a 25-page synopsis given to me by Hansal confidence ke saath and Ekta, I started reading it at 1 am, and I knew I had khelo (be confident)." found the woman I wanted to be…" Salman also spoke Kareena further shared how she collaborated with about cricketer director Hansal Mehta and producer Ektaa Kapoor for Shubman Gill. He the "unconventional film." She wrote, "Ekta, Hansal and said, "Shubman should play. I shot the I set off on this journey to make a slightly climax of Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan when I unconventional film, but a film that is with heart, had both COVID-19 and dengue. He is a bit of a smile, and, oh my god, lots of tears... young also. I think he should play." Rohit It played at the British Film Institute last Sharma previously confirmed Shubman's night, and as this film starts its journey... entry in the match. He replaced Ishan in the world of movies... I couldn't be Kishan after missing the first two matches more nervous and excited as an actor due to dengue. and a first-time producer... I feel so At the studio, Salman was joined by odd writing that (laughing face Harbhajan Singh and Mohammad Kaif for emoticon)… but I feel really cool…" the conversation. As Salman promoted his The actor added, "So giving you film, Harbhajan heaped praises on the actor. all a glimpse of this gem we He said, "When there is a match between India made... into the world of Jas and Pakistan, Virat Kohli becomes the Salman Bhamra. I do hope Jas hasn't Khan of the stadium." ended her journey yet, because Besides talking about Tiger and Shubman, the it's been a dream to continue this wonderful yet strong woman actor also took KL Rahul's name when asked about whose grief is beyond his favourite player in the team. In a segment, he measure but stronger referred to Virat Kohli as Chulbul Pandey from his than she knows." film 'Dabangg' and Rohit Sharma as Pawan of 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan.'

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21 - 27 October 2023

Tamannaah says Rajinikanth is the 'most humble person' she has ever met

Mahesh Babu's daughter calls him 'titan of silver screen'

ctor Mahesh Babu's daughter Sitara Ghattamaneni praised him, calling him a "titan of the silver screen." She posted a throwback picture of herself along with her family members over the weekend. In the old photo, Sitara sat between her parents, father Mahesh and mother Namrata Shirodkar. Her brother, Gautam Ghattamaneni, was also seen next to Mahesh. His father, the late actor Krishna, also posed with the family of four.

n an interview, Tamannaah Bhatia opened up about working with superstar Rajinikanth. Recently seen in the Rajinikanth blockbuster 'Jailer,' Tamannaah called him the "most humble person" she has ever met. Talking about her experience of working with the star, she said, "He is the most humble person I have ever met, it's beautiful to see someone who has seen the kind of superstardom he has seen and yet has the same kind of simplicity and innocence and that's really hard to keep intact." The actor shared screen space with Rajinikanth in the dance number' Kaavaalaa,' which was an instant hit with the audience. The 'Kaavaalaa' craze was so huge that it even reached Hiroshi Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan to India, who created a video with Japanese YouTuber Mayo San in which he was seen shaking a leg to the song. Taking to X, he wrote, "Kaavaalaa dance video with Japanese YouTuber Mayo san(@MayoLoveIndia) My Love for Rajinikanth continues … @Rajinikanth #Jailer #rajinifans..Video courtesy: Japanese Youtuber Mayo san and her team." 'Jailer' performed very well at the box office, grossing more than £65 million worldwide. On the work front, Tamannaah has a number of upcoming films with her Malayalam movie 'Bandra,' Tamil film 'Aranmai 4,' and Hindi film 'Vedaa' lined up for release.

Revathy draws connection between emoji culture and casting couch issue

Vijay's 'Leo' dethrones Shah Rukh's 'Pathaan' in UK advance booking

outhern star Revathy recently drew some connections between the current emoji culture and casting couch in the film industry. Calling on the importance of understanding the meaning of various emojis, Revathy pointed out that people, particularly women, should avoid conveying wrong messages.

Namrata opted for a beige outfit for the picture, while Sitara was seen in a beige dress. Mahesh Babu wore a blue shirt and black pants, while Gautam was seen in a grey shirt and denims. Krishna sported a pink shirt and black pants. Sharing the photo, Sitara wrote, "Cinema- a word that holds a very special place in my life and my upbringing. It's just not an industry for me; it's a part of my DNA. My father, a titan of the silver screen, has always been my inspiration, just like how his father was to him. My thathagaru (grandfather), known to the world as the legendary evergreen superstar Krishna (black heart emojis) has had such a profound impact and influence on us all, and I'm so proud and thankful to be a part of this legacy he left behind for my father, my brother, and me (black heart emojis)." She added, "Here is to the magic of cinema and to all of you who love and support my family's cinematic journey. (Clapper board and red heart emojis) #NationalCinemaDay." Reacting to the post, a fan wrote, "Lovely and inspiring family." A comment read, "Beautifully written by a kid! How she expressed the emotions in simple words." A person said, "Blessed you are. That's a great legacy to earn." An Instagram user said, "So sweet star, you have a beautiful family."

Speaking at the ABP Southern Rising Summit 2023, she noted, "When engaging in a professional conversation, do not use emojis. Kids are constantly balancing themselves; it is a very tough period. They are going through a lot more than I have ever been through." She stressed that mobile phones and messaging are the root cause of a lot of issues. Revathy said that people in the past were a bit hesitant to approach others with proposals. "Looking into a person's eyes and telling them, 'I want to be with you know' is not very easy. Nowadays, you say such things over SMS. In the past, it was much more challenging. Nevertheless, there existed a bit of flirting between men and women and that's fine. But, when you go beyond a certain respectable norm, then there has to be consent. Those days we didn't have a term called 'consent'." She further emphasised that the capacity to voice one's thoughts also relied heavily on upbringing. "In my upbringing, I was encouraged to speak up. Yet, during the same period, there were girls and boys who didn't know how to speak up. In the end, it is about your upbringing, the circumstances you were in and the way your parents gave you the strength to stand up on your feet or stand up against others for yourself," she noted.

ne of the year's most anticipated films, Thalapathy Vijay's 'Leo' has already created history ahead of its October 19 release. It has now crossed Shah Rukh Khan's 'Pathaan's advance booking number for day one in the UK.

Trade analyst Taran Adarsh took to his Instagram account to share the report about Leo's epic advance booking numbers. He wrote, "VIJAY – 'LEO': MASSIVE RESPONSE OVERSEAS… #ThalapathyVijay’s latest outing #Leo is REDEFINING HISTORY in the #Overseas market… An aggressive distribution strategy [#UK and #Europe distribution by #AhimsaEntertainment] has set an ALL-TIME RECORD among #Indian films, dethroning #Pathaan in advance ticket sales for *Day 1*." The film's distributor, Ahimsa Entertainment, shared what audiences can expect from 'Leo.' They mentioned in their X amount that the film is "intensely raw and violent." It said, "With strong violence and detailed gory scenes that ended up being more graphic than even we anticipated, it's not for the fainthearted. Although we targeted a 15+ rating for "LEO", the BBFC gave it an 18+, meaning only those aged 18 and up can see it in cinemas. This unfortunately excludes younger students between the ages of 15-17." 'Pathaan,' which starred Shah Rukh Khan, John Abraham and Deepika Padukone, emerged as one of the year's highest-grossing films. It grossed £100 million worldwide. 'Leo' marks Vijay and filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj's reunion after the 2021 blockbuster 'Master.' It will also be released in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada. The movie serves as actor Sanjay Dutt's Tamil debut. The action thriller also stars Trisha, Arjun Sarja, Mansoor Ali Khan, Priya Anand, Mysskin and Gautham Vasudev Menon. Anirudh Ravichander, who composed music for Vijay's hit films like 'Kaththi,' 'Master' and 'Beast,' has given music for the film.

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21 - 27 October 2023

Nick Jonas shares family photos of baby Malti and Priyanka S

Kartik Aaryan likely to appear on 'Koffee With Karan 8' A

ctor Kartik Aaryan is reportedly one of the celebrity guests on an upcoming episode of 'Koffee With Karan 8.' Filmmaker Karan Johar recently confirmed that season eight of the chat show is set to premiere on October 26 on Disney+ Hotstar. According to a report, Kartik is "likely to be seen" on 'Koffee With Karan' again. Additionally, the two might open up about their muchtalked-about fallout during 'Dostana 2.' A media report quoted a source as saying, "There's still no clarity as to who Kartik will come with but he's likely to be seen on the Koffee couch for the second time. The duo has decided on sorting out their differences and the episode might also see them addressing the many reports of their alleged tiff." Kartik made his 'KWK' debut

during the sixth season of the show in 2018 when he appeared with his 'Luka Chuppi' co-star Kriti Sanon. And though he wasn't a part of the last season, his name popped up frequently during the show, and the actor even reacted to it. Kartik and Karan's dynamic has been in the news since Dharma Productions announced the 'Dostana 2' recasting in 2021. He was roped in to play the lead role in the movie with Janhvi Kapoor and Lakshya Lalwani. However, in 2021, the actor was dropped from the project. At that time, Karan's Dharma Productions had issued a statement on Instagram. It read, "Due to professional circumstances, on which we have decided to maintain a dignified silence, we will be recasting Dostana 2, directed by Collin D'Cunha. Please wait for the official announcement soon."

Michael Douglas H reacts to receiving Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award

inger-actor Nick Jonas has been spending plenty of quality time with family recently as he was joined by wife, Priyanka Chopra and daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas for several Jonas Brothers concerts across the US and Canada. He shared a series of photos on Instagram that captured sweet moments from the last concert they all attended together. The pictures were taken backstage at the recent Jonas Brothers show in Nashville, US. One of the pictures shows Nick Jonas by himself as he performs on stage. In two other two snaps, he was seen with Malti. He held her in one of the photos and played with Malti in another as Priyanka had their daughter in her arms. Sharing the black-and-white photos, Nick wrote in his caption, "Bring your family to work day." The post garnered a lot of appreciation and warmth from his fans and social media users. Speaking of Malti, an Instagram user wrote, "She is growing up so fast." Another commented on Nick's

post, "Oh my God her baby crocs!" A fan also wrote, "Arghhhh tooo cuteeeee." A comment also read, "The connection that Nick and Priyanka have with Malti is sublime, it warms the heart! And the little one shined a lot." A day earlier, unseen videos of Malti from the Nashville concert had surfaced online, and fans gushed over how adorable the toddler was. There was a video of Priyanka holding Malti close to the stage as Nick greets them, and an excited Malti almost followed her father on stage. After tying the knot at a grand wedding in Jodhpur in December 2018, Priyanka and Nick announced in January 2022 that they had welcomed their daughter. "We are overjoyed to confirm that we have welcomed a baby via surrogate," they wrote on Instagram at the time, adding, "We respectfully ask for privacy during this special time as we focus on our family. Thank you so much."

Fawad Khan attends Mahira Khan's wedding festivities P

akistani actor Fawad Khan attended Mahira Khan and Salim Karim's wedding festivities at Bourbon in Pakistan a few days ago. Mahira shared a new video from the celebrations, presumably a pre-wedding musical night or sangeet. The new-couple is seen grooving as legendary Pakistani singer Abida Parveen performs on stage. He also kissed her hand. However, the glimpse of Fawad at the function caught the attention of eagleeyed social media users. The actor, who has worked in Bollywood films such as 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' and 'Kapoor and Sons,' wore a white kurta set with a brown shawl and sat with other guests in the audience as Parveen sang 'Tu Jhoom.' Sharing the clip, Mahira wrote, "Anyone who knows me… knows... Abida Parveen.. all my love, all my respect. Alhumdulillah. Shukr. Sabr. Shukr (Gratitude and patience)." A fan commented on her video, "No way Fawad Khan was there!' One more wrote, "I only see Fawad Khan." Another commented, "I just noticed Fawad Khan in the most beautiful pose ever, and I have melted like how."

ollywood actor Michael Douglas will be awarded the prestigious Satyajit Ray Excellence in Film Lifetime Award at the International Film Festival of India. Reacting to the announcement, he said he was "honoured." "Hello India, it's Michael Douglas and I am coming your way. I am honoured to receive Satyajit Ray's Excellence in Film Lifetime Award International Indian Film Festival in Goa. So, Catherine and I will be coming there and also to honour a dear friend as it's his 25th year anniversary in the film business. So, looking for seeing you in November. All of you have a wonderful day," Douglas said. Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur made the announcement last week. Thakur posted on X, "I'm delighted to announce that Michael Douglas, the

Fawad and Mahira, who starred together in 'The Legend of Maula Jatt,' the highest-grossing Pakistani film of all time, will be seen together in Netflix's first Pakistan-themed original 'Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo.' Earlier, Mahira had shared videos and photos from her pre-wedding ceremonies, such as mehendi and haldi. Mahira married businessman Salim on October 1 in an intimate ceremony. She was previously married to Ali Askari. The couple split in 2015. Mahira has a son, Azlan, from her first marriage.

distinguished Hollywood Actor and Producer, will be honoured with the prestigious Satyajit Ray Excellence in Film Lifetime Award at the 54th International Film Festival Goa. His deep love for our country is well known, and we look forward to welcoming him, Catherine Zeta-Jones and their son to the most prominent Film Festival in South Asia to showcase our rich cinematic culture and unique traditions at #IFFI54!! A heartfelt welcome to Bharat and @IFFIGoa." Douglas will be presented with the award at the International Film Festival of India, scheduled to be held in Panjim from November 20-28 this year. The 79-year-old actor has won two Academy Awards, five Golden Globe Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, the Cecil B. DeMille Award, and the AFI Life Achievement Award.

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21 - 27 October 2023

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Australia score over Lanka in World Cup Australia beat Sri Lanka by five wickets in their ICC World Cup match on Monday in Lucknow. Sent in to bowl, Australia dismissed Sri Lanka for 209 in 43.3 overs and then returned to overhaul the target in 35.2 overs, scoring 215 for five in a match that was briefly interrupted by rain. This was Australia’s first win of the ongoing tournament. Opener Mitchell Marsh scored a 51-ball 52 but Australia lost two quick wickets to slip to 81 for three. Marnus Labuschagne (40) and Josh Inglis (58) added 77 runs to revive the chase. Glenn Maxewell (31) and Marcus Stoinis (20) then knocked off the remaining runs. For Sri Lanka, Dilshan Madushanka snapped three wickets. Earlier, openers Pathum Nissanka (61) and Kusal Perera (78) added 125 runs in 22 overs but Sri Lanka suffered a collapse, losing nine wickets for 53 runs. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa showed the way with four wickets, while there were two wickets apiece for Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Afghanistan crush England Defending England crashed to a shock 69-run defeat against Afghanistan in New Delhi on Sunday. Chasing a target of 285, England were bowled out for 215 in

the World Cup so far turned into a 40.3 overs, falling to Afghan spin one-sided anti-climax in magic, which saw Rashid Khan and Ahmedabad on Saturday. Pakistan Mujeeb Ur Rahman get threehave never beaten India in a men's wicket hauls. Meanwhile, Mohammad Nabi picked dĞĂŵ DĂƚĐŚ tŝŶ >ŽƐĞ EZZ WŽŝŶƚƐ two wickets. Harry Brook /ŶĚŝĂ ϯ ϯ Ϭ нϭ͘ϴϮϭ ϲ was England's lone wolf in EĞǁ ĞĂůĂŶĚ ϯ ϯ Ϭ нϭ͘ϲϬϰ ϲ the run chase, but lost his ^ŽƵƚŚ ĨƌŝĐĂ Ϯ Ϯ Ϭ нϮ͘ϯϲϬ ϰ ϯ Ϯ ϭ ͲϬ͘ϭϯϳ ϰ wicket in the 35th over, WĂŬŝƐƚĂŶ ϯ ϭ Ϯ ͲϬ͘Ϭϴϰ Ϯ with his side reeling at ŶŐůĂŶĚ ϯ ϭ Ϯ ͲϬ͘ϲϱϮ Ϯ 169/8. Brook registered 66 ĨŐŚĂŶŝƐƚĂŶ ĂŶŐůĂĚĞƐŚ ϯ ϭ Ϯ ͲϬ͘ϲϵϵ Ϯ off 61 balls. ƵƐƚƌĂůŝĂ ϯ ϭ Ϯ ͲϬ͘ϳϯϰ Ϯ Afghanistan piled a stiff ^ƌŝ >ĂŶŬĂ ϯ Ϭ ϯ Ͳϭ͘ϱϯϮ Ϭ 284 on the board after EĞƚŚĞƌůĂŶĚƐ Ϯ Ϭ Ϯ Ͳϭ͘ϴϬϬ Ϭ being invited by England to 50-over World Cup, but looked to bat first. Afghanistan lost three be laying a platform to challenge quick wickets and were reduced to the hosts when they reached 155-2 122/3 in 18.5 overs. India demolish Pakistan in the cauldron of the world's largest cricket stadium. What India demolished Pakistan as followed was an implosion. the most eagerly awaited contest of

hotels have arrived from Maharashtra, MP and Rajasthan. According to figures gathered between October 11 and 13, as many as 390 foreign nationals have checked into 276 rooms in Ahmedabad. The match has truly transcended borders, with the United Kingdom leading the charge of fans who booked 45 rooms, followed closely by cricket lovers from the United States, who have reserved 34 rooms. People from Nepal, Japan, Algeria, and Singapore, to name just a few, have marked their presence in double digits. Fans from Russia, Ireland, Tanzania, the United Arab Emirates, and many more have

ensured the crowd is a melting pot of cricket fervour. Police say, “Most of the rooms have been booked by cricket lovers. Some of the single rooms are even being occupied by five people.” They add, “Non-resident Indians (NRIs) and foreign nationals do come to Gujarat to enjoy Navratri. However, they are usually from the US, the UK or Australia and are far fewer in numbers. This time, people from countries like Albania, Uzbekistan, American Samoa, Eritrea, Hong Kong, Korea, and Papua New Guinea have booked rooms in the city. We believe they have come down to witness the WC match.”

Harry Chathli appointed Chair of Yorkshire County Cricket Club The board of directors of The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Limited (YCCC or the Club) has appointed Harry Chathli as the new Chair of the Club. He was appointed as Chair following his election as a Non-Executive Director (NED) becoming effective, after members vote at the Club’s recent extraordinary general meeting and the registration by the Financial Conduct Authority of relevant changes to the Club’s rules. Chathli succeeds interim Chair Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, who will continue to serve on the board as a NED. Chathli said: “It’s an honour and privilege to be appointed Chair of one of the most iconic clubs in the cricketing

world and a renowned contributor to English cricket heritage. “Cricket is at an inflexion point with unprecedented growth reaching new audiences who are attracted by the variety of formats. YCCC has played its part in this growth within the men’s cricket and has also been at the forefront of development of women’s cricket in the country. I am also proud of the fact that we are championing disability and LGBTQ+ cricket. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Tanni for her excellent stewardship of the Club through a very challenging period this year. YCCC is an exceptional club and I'm looking forward to working with her, the Board and the management team in bringing some trophies back to the Club.”

World Cup on a pitch that used to be a batters’ nightmare but behaved well. Then, South African bowlers ran riot and at one point of time Australia were reeling at 70 for 6. Pak beat Lanka In an exciting World Cup encounter that saw 689 runs being scored at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Sri Lanka and Pakistan matched their batting might century for century before the latter prevailed with 10 deliveries to spare. If Kusal Mendis (122) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (108) thought they gave the crowd their money’s worth by setting it up nicely at 344/9, they had not reckoned with the Pakistan duo of Abdullah Shafique and Mohammad Rizwan, as Pakistan finished at 345 for four. Shafique (113) who replaced Fakhar Zaman, was unfazed by the fall of early wickets and went about his task methodically. The 23-year-old from Sialkot, who has played more Tests than ODIs, found an able ally in Mohammad Rizwan (134*). The duo kept Pakistan in the hunt with their 176–run partnership for the third wicket in 156 balls and went into overdrive once Shafique reached his first ODI century.

Cricket will return to Olympics after 128 years

India-Pakistan clash draws fans from 57 countries During the World Cup match at on Saturday in Ahmedabad, fans from every corner of the globe have descended here to witness the fiercely anticipated showdown between cricketing giants India and Pakistan at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera. According to the records held by the Union home ministry, a staggering 21,739 hotel rooms have been snapped up in 1,229 hotels in Ahmedabad three days before the match. Almost 38,000 plus cricket lovers from each and every state and Union territory in India have checked into city hotels to witness the faceoff. Apart from Gujaratis, maximum cricket lovers who have checked into city

Captain Babar Azam was bowled by Mohammed Siraj for 50 to begin a collapse of eight wickets for 36 runs, Pakistan spiralling to 191 all out. Siraj was one of five India bowlers to pick up two wickets. The target seemed so unlikely to trouble the powerful India batting line-up. Though Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli were both out for 16, home skipper Rohit Sharma batted magnificently for an 86 that put the result beyond doubt. SA humble mighty Aussies The Kangaroos continue to hop on a hot tin roof. After a six-wicket loss against India in their inaugural match of the World Cup in Chennai, the five-time champions lost again on Thursday, this time against South Africa at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium by 134 runs. With their second humongous victory, the Proteas have jumped to the top of the table; Aussies, with an equal number of defeats, are ninth – just above minnows Afghanistan. This is the first time after 1992 that Australia have lost their first two matches in the World Cup. The fact that Australian fielders dropped five catches hardly helped their cause. After posting a handsome 311/7, thanks to the second successive century by Quinton de Kock (109) in this

Cricket will return to the Olympics at the Los Angeles edition in 2028 after an absence of more than a century, while squash will make its debut on the Games programme. The inclusion of both sports was formalised at the 141st International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session in Mumbai. The two sports have been joined by baseball/softball, flag football and lacrosse after they were proposed by the LA28 Organising Committee (OC) as a “package” for their edition of the Games and were reviewed and supported by the IOC’s Olympic programme commission (OPC) and executive board (EB). Cricket was on the programme for the Olympic Games in Paris in 1900, while lacrosse featured in St Louis 1904 and London 1908. Baseball/ softball have been part of the programme at several editions of the Olympic Games, most recently at Tokyo 2020. Flag football will be making its Olympic debut in LA. “Cricket has evolved. We have always been made aware of the development of cricket in India and beyond by IOC member Nita Ambani. The IOC then had talks with the LA organising panel,” said IOC president Thomas Bach.

“The choice of these five new sports is in line with the American sports culture and will showcase iconic American sports to the world, while bringing international sports to the United States. These sports will make the Olympic Games LA28 unique. Their inclusion will allow the Olympic movement to engage with new athlete and fan communities in the US and globally,” added Bach. Cricket’s addition to the Games programme wasn’t unanimous as two IOC members voted against the proposal while one member abstained. The selection of sports was the result of a thorough process and analysis based on evaluation criteria set out before the process began, including gender equality.

Asiad haul shows India in right direction: PM Modi Hailing the Asian Games Indian contingent as “GOAT” (greatest of all time) with special accolades for the performance of women athletes, PM Narendra Modi last week said India's highest ever medal haul reflected the spirit of new India and was testimony to the fact that India was forging ahead in the right direction. Interacting with the full Asiad contingent at Dhyan Chand Stadium, the PM said allocations for sports since 2014 had been increased three-fold and assured the athletes that funds would never be a constraint. Modi said there was always a hunger for medals but encouragement and resources for athletes were lacking. He also exhorted them to launch a crusades against drug addiction. “You have created history. This is the best performance of India in the Asian Games to date. It is a matter of personal satisfaction that

we are moving in the right direction,” the PM said and recalled the doubts over development of Covid vaccines and said when the country succeeded in saving lives and helping 150 countries, the same feeling of moving in the right direction was experienced. Expressing pride in the contributions made by women athletes, the PM said more than half the medals were bagged by women and it was the women’s cricket team that began the string of successes. “The daughters of India were not ready to settle for anything less than No.1 in the track and field events. This is the spirit and power of new India,” he added. He also congratulated the coaches and trainers and praised the physios and officials for their contributions. He bowed before the parents of all athletes and highlighted the contributions and sacrifices made by the families.