FRIDAY MARCH 28, 2025 INDIA THIS WEEK 1 A W e e k l y N e w s p a p e r Fe a t u r i n g N e w s & Tr e n d s f r o m t h e I n d i a n S u b - C o n t i n e n t P u b l i s h e d f r o m t h e U S C a p i t a l Website: www.indiathisweek.US Vol 34 No: 13 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday March 28, 2025 US Senate confirms Indian-origin Jay Bhattacharya as Director of National Institutes of Health Washington DC [US], March 26 (ANI): The US Senate on Tuesday (local time) confirmed the appointment of Indianorigin Jay Bhattacharya, a professor at Stanford School of Medicine, as Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). According to the official website of the US Senate, Bhattacharya won the vote 53-47 during the first session of the roll call vote in the 119th Congress. According to an earlier nomination statement from US President Donald Trump, Bhattacharya is a professor of health policy at Stanford University, a research associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research, and a senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research, Stanford Freeman Spogli Institute, and the Hoover Institution. He also directs Stanford’s Centre for Demography and Economics of Health and Ageing, and his research emphasises the role of government programs, biomedical innovation, and economics. Jay is a co-author of the Great Barrington Declaration, an alternative to lockdowns proposed in October 2020. His peerreviewed research has been published in economics, statistics, legal, medical, public health, and health policy journals. The statement further added that Bhattacharya and newly appointed US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr will be working together to restore the NIH to a “Gold Standard of Medical Research.” Following his confirmation as the head of the NIH, US Republican Senator from Kentucky Mitch McConnell congratulated Bhattacharya, stating that he would provide “sound leadership” to the institution. “Voted today to confirm Dr Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. With an extensive background in medical research, I expect Dr J Bhattacharya to provide sound leadership at the NIH,” McConnell said, taking to X. Earlier in February, the US Senate voted to confirm Robert F Kennedy Jr, an anti-vaccine activist, as US Health and Human Services Secretary. He was confirmed as US Health and Human Services Secretary with a vote of 5248. (ANI) Earlier in February, the US Senate voted to confirm Robert F Kennedy Jr, an anti-vaccine activist, as US Health and Human Services Secretary. He was confirmed as US Health and Human Services Secretary with a vote of 5248. (ANI) ENDS MARCH 31 TX NXh ES F SPORT RX F SPORT YOUR INVITATION IS READY AND WAITING lexus.com | #Lexus ©2025 Lexus, a Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Boost to ONOE: JPC backs Constitutional amendments, says basic structure won’t be disrupted By Suchitra Mukherjee | New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI): The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) held a crucial meeting on Monday, lasting over five hours. According to BJP MP and JPC Chairperson PP Chaudhary, Former Chief Justice of Delhi High Court DN Patel presented his views, followed by an interactive session with members. In the second session, Attorney General of India R Venkataramani engaged with the members, providing valuable inputs and information. Chaudhary emphasized that ONOE is in the nation’s best interest. The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for April 2. The highly placed sources from JPC, ONOE committee told ANI that D N Patel Delhi high former justice stated regarding ONOE that it ONOE SEE PAGE 6
March 28, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Against all odds: Auto driver’s daughter Roshni Kumari tops Bihar Class 12 exams Hajipur (Bihar) [India], March 25 (ANI): In a heartwarming tale of perseverance and determination, Roshni Kumari, daughter of an auto driver from Bihar’s Vaishali district, has emerged as the state topper in the commerce stream of the Bihar Class 12 board exams. Roshni’s journey to success is a testament to her hard work and family support. Despite facing financial constraints, she enrolled in a government school and pursued her dreams. Her mother’s motivation and teachers’ encouragement played a significant role in her achievement. Speaking about her achievement, Roshni said, “My father is an auto driver. Due to financial constraints, I left my previous school and got myself enrolled in a government school... My mother motivated me a lot. Earlier, I had decided to do CA after the 12th, but looking at our financial condition, I dropped that idea and thought of doing CS. My teachers told me not to worry about money and they will support me...” Roshni’s story inspires students from humble backgrounds, demonstrating that with dedication and support, anyone can achieve their dreams. Antara Khushi secured the second rank in the commerce stream across the state. Expressing her joy, Antara credited her achievement to the unwavering support of her parents and teachers. “I want to dedicate this success to my parents and teachers,” said Antara Khushi, speaking about her accomplishment. She revealed that her preparation involved a disciplined routine, studying 6-8 hours daily on a regular basis, which she intensified to 10-12 hours as the exams approached. “My parents and teachers supported me and motivated me the most,” she added It is noteworthy that this time, in BSEB (Bihar School Examination Board) a total of 12,80,211 students appeared for the intermediate examination, out of which 11,07,330 students have passed, accounting for 86.50 percent New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI): The Finance Bill 2025 was passed, and the tenure of the Joint Parliamentary committee on One Nation One Election was extended in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, as the lower house was adjourned for the day and will meet again on Wednesday at 11 am. As the Finance Bill was passed in the house, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the government has sought to do several things in the legislation as per the aspirations and expectations of people and the goal of making India a developed country by 2047. “This Finance Bill, we have attempted to do several things, which as per as the aspiration and the expectation of the people of India and also the goal that the Prime Minister has given us towards the Viksit Bharat by 2047,” Sitharaman said. She said the bill aims to provide tax certainty. “It rationalises a lot of provisions which are towards ease of doing business and also provides unprecedented tax relief,” she said. The minister talked about the tax relief provided to people in the union budget and the government’s nudge to increase tax mobilisation from those who have foreign assets. She replied to the queries raised by members, including those on the GST. Opposition members participated in the discussion and accused the government of “patchwork solutions” and “flawed GST.” The BJP members lauded the government’s economic performance, saying that the country’s GDP has more than doubled in the last ten years. The Boilers Bill, 2024, was also passed in the Lok Sabha. This bill emphasises Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) and seeks to benefit boiler users, including those in the MSME sector. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal moved for its passage, as the bill had earlier been passed in the Rajya Sabha. The Boilers Act, 1923, was comprehensively amended in 2007 by the Indian Boilers (Amendment) Act, 2007, wherein inspection and certification by independent third-party inspecting authorities was introduced. However, on further examination of the existing Act, a need was felt for its review and incorporation of the decriminalised provisions in accordance with the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023. A c c o r d i n g l y, the existing Act has been reviewed, with obsolete provisions omitted and certain substantive enabling provisions made for the rules and regulations that were not earlier provided. Certain new definitions have also been incorporated, and a few existing definitions have been amended to clarify the provisions of the Bill. For Ease of Doing Business (EoDB), the Bill will benefit boiler users, including those in the MSME sector, as provisions related to the decriminalisation have been incorporated into the bill. Out of the seven offences, criminal penalties are retained for four major offences that may result in loss of life and property to ensure the safety of boilers and personnel dealing with boilers. Provision has been made for fiscal penalties for other offences. For all noncriminal offences, ‘fine’ has been converted into ‘penalty’ to be levied through executive mechanism instead of courts as existed earlier.The bill seeks to enhance safety, of the total candidates. Among them, 5,59,065 are female students, while 5,48,148 are male students. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar congratulated Roshni and all the successful students, highlighting the significant role of female students in securing top positions across all three streams. The Chief Minister highlighted that this year, female students secured top positions across all three streams–Arts, Science, and Commerce. Expressing his happiness over their achievement, he emphasized that not only the students but also their parents deserve appreciation. He described this success as a significant example of women’s empowerment, attributing it to various schemes implemented by the state government to boost confidence among girls, enabling them to excel in every field. CM Kumar also wished all successful students a bright future and commended the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) and the Education Department for publishing the results within a short period. (ANI) as specific provisions have been made to ensure the safety of persons working inside a boiler and provide that boiler repair is undertaken by qualified and competent persons. The Lok Sabha also approved the motion to extend the tenure of the JPC on ‘One Nation, One Election’ upto the first day of the last week of the Monsoon Session, 2025. Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), PP Chaudhary, had moved the motion in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday regarding an extension of time for presenting the report on the “One Nation, One Election” Bills (‘Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024’). The bills under consideration include the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024. (ANI) Nadu) [India], March 25 (ANI): A 68-year-old woman filed a complaint to G-3 Kilpauk Police Station of Chennai and alleged that a group of 20 people entered her house at around 09:45 am on Monday and abused her with obscene words. She demanded the police officials to take necessary actions into the matter, a press release from the DGP office said. Meanwhile, a YouTuber, Suvukku Shankar, who is also the son of petitioner Kamala, Greater Chennai Police and the Commissioner of Police. After that, both officials requested to transfer the aforementioned C.S.R. to another agency for enquiry. The request was accepted by the concerned authority and has been transferred from G-3 Kilpauk Police Station to CBCID for further enquiry. “On 24.03.2025, one Tmt. Kamala, 68, W/o Aachimuthu, Dhamotharamoorthy Street, Kilpauk, preferred Police Station alleging that today (24.03.2025) at around 09.45 Hrs, a group of around 20 people entered into her house, abused her with obscene words, soiled her entire house with sewage waste and criminally intimated her. Hence, she requested appropriate action on the same. Based on the aforesaid complaint, G3 Kilpauk P.S. assigned C.S.R. No.118/2025 and took up for enquiry”, an official press release from DGP office read. Lok Sabha adjourned for the day; Finance Bill and Boilers Bill passed, ONOE JPC’s tenure extended Chennai: Elderly woman alleges 20 people entered her house, abused, allegations againstintimatedatherKilpauk criminally a complaint G-3 Chennai (Tamil levelled
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March 28, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Delhi: US Embassy Files FIR Against Fake Visa and Passport Agents, Crime Branch Begins Probe New Delhi [India], March 21 (ANI): The Delhi Police Crime Branch has registered an FIR against several visa and passport agents, primarily operating from Punjab and Haryana, following a complaint from the US Embassy, according to an official statement. The case was filed on February 27.In the complaint, a representative of the US Embassy in New Delhi highlighted fraudulent activities by visa agents. The complaint stated that these agents, both known and unknown, were involved in submitting false information in US visa applications and providing fake documents to applicants. The agents allegedly attempted to deceive the US Embassy and the US government to obtain visas through fraudulent means. The complaint further stated, “During the period from May to August 2024, our office conducted relevant investigations and compiled a comprehensive list of individuals linked to multiple IP addresses, suspected to be associated with visa consultants, document vendors (educational certificates, bank documents, and employment certificates), passport delivery addresses, and education consultants.” According to the statement, the US Embassy has named more than 30 visa and passport agents, along with passengers who allegedly tried to obtain US visas using fake documents. Specific cases were also highlighted where applicants submitted fraudulent papers. A case has been registered under Sections 318, 336, and 340 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act. The Delhi Police Crime Branch is now investigating the matter, the statement added. Meanwhile, US federal immigration authorities have detained a Georgetown University researcher studying and teaching on a student visa in Virginia, the United States, Politico reported. The detention comes amid the Trump administration’s crackdown on student activists accused of opposing US foreign policy, Politico reported, citing court documents. Masked agents arrested Badar Khan Suri, an Indian national and postdoctoral fellow, outside his home in Arlington’s Rosslyn neighbourhood in Virginia on Monday night, his lawyer said in a lawsuit seeking his immediate release. According to the lawsuit, the agents identified themselves as being with the US Department of Homeland Security and informed Suri that the government had revoked his visa. The petition filed for his release stated that he was placed in deportation proceedings under a provision of immigration law that the US government has also invoked to deport Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student and green card holder who led proPalestinian protests on campus.The provision allows the US Secretary of State to deport non-citizens if their presence is deemed a threat to the country’s foreign policy. Suri’s petition argued that he has no criminal record and has not been charged with any crime, Politico reported. New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI): The recent notification from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, announcing a 24 per cent increase in the salaries, allowances, and pensions of Members of Parliament and former MPs, has given rise to various misconceptions among the public. The slaries of Members of Parliament are adjusted by the Centre every five years based on the Cost Inflation Index, thereby preventing ‘arbitrary increase’ in their remunerations. The notification, issued on March 24, 2024, in ths manner, revises the monthly salary of MPs from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.24 lakh, with effect from April 1, 2023. In 2016, it was Prime Minister Modi’s view that MPs should not decide their pay package and decisions on such matters should either be made by a body similar to the Pay Commission or that it be linked to hikes given to certain posts and ranks from time to time It was based on this strong view of PM that the salary revision mechanism for MPs was changed from a discretionary decision by Parliament to a structured adjustment linked to inflation. The mechanism introduced in 2018 ensures a fair and transparent approach to salary revisions, preventing arbitrary increases and ensuring financial prudence. The Finance Act of 2018 amended the Salaries, Allowances, and Pension of Members of Parliament Act, 1954, to link MPs’ salaries to inflation, specifically using the Cost Inflation Index (CII) published under the Income Tax Act of 1961. Before this amendment, salary revisions were conducted ad hoc and required parliamentary approval each time. The amendment aimed to depoliticise the process and introduce a systematic mechanism for salary adjustments. The last revision before the 2018 amendment took place in 2010, when Parliament passed a bill to increase MPs’ monthly salaries from Rs 16,000 to Rs 50,000. This decision led to significant public criticism, as many perceived it as MPs granting themselves a three-fold pay hike. However, some MPs, including Mulayam Singh Yadav and Lalu Prasad Yadav, argued that the increase was insufficient and demanded at least a five-fold rise in salaries. As per media sources, under the revised mechanism, MPs’ salaries are now automatically adjusted every five years based on the Cost Inflation Index. The base salary in 2018 was set at Rs 1 lakh per month, with additional allowances, including a constituency allowance of Rs 70,000 and a daily allowance of Rs 2,000, along with other benefits such as free housing, travel, and utilities. Now, as per the Cost Inflation Index, MPs will receive a salary of Rs 1.24 lakh per month–a 24 per cent increase over a seven-year period, which translates to an average annual increase of approximately 3.1 per cent, as per sources. This process ensures that salary revisions are objective and transparent, relying on an established economic indicator rather than arbitrary decisions. Consequently, salary adjustments occur systematically without the need for repeated parliamentary debates or political interventions. As an extraordinary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic, the government implemented a 30 per cent salary reduction for MPs and ministers in April 2020 for a duration of one year. This decision was made to supplement the financial resources of the Central government in tackling the pandemic. The temporary reduction was aimed at ensuring that funds were available to support India’s efforts to combat the crisis and provide relief to the public, as per sources. The cut applied to all MPs, including ministers, and remained in place for a year. The criticism surrounding the hike stems largely from misconceptions rather than an understanding of the structured process that governs MPs’ remuneration. Many state governments continue to follow an arbitrary and ad hoc mechanism for deciding their own salaries, granting themselves extraordinarily high hikes. This stands in contrast to the structured, inflationlinked mechanism for MPs’ salaries that Parliament adopted at the urging of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the 2025 Budget presented recently, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah approved a 100 per cent salary hike for himself, effectively doubling the salaries of the Chief Minister, ministers, and MLAs. His salary increased from Rs 75,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh per month, while ministers’ salaries rose from Rs 60,000 to Rs 1.25 lakh MLAs and Members of the Legislative Council (MLCs) saw their salaries double from Rs 40,000 to Rs 80,000. This change is expected to impose an additional financial burden of Rs 62 crore annually on the state exchequer, which is already heavily indebted due to the Congress government’s indiscriminate spending. With allowances included, their total monthly income will now increase from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, resulting in a direct hike of Rs 2 lakh in take-home pay. This change in Karnataka comes at a time when Siddaramaiah’s government has imposed hikes in petrol prices, milk prices, property tax, and water tax, further burdening the poor and the middle class. In June 2024, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) government arbitrarily increased the salaries of the Chief Minister, ministers, and MLAs by up to 50 per cent. In 2023, Arvind Kejriwal approved a massive 136 per cent salary hike for himself, raising his pay to Rs 1.7 lakh per month, while MLAs received a 66 per cent increase, bringing their salaries to Rs 90,000. This increase was implemented arbitrarily, with no justification. More alarmingly, it came after Kejriwal’s 2015 demand for an almost 300 per cent hike in MPs’ salaries was rejected by the Modi government on the grounds that it was exorbitant. In 2023, Mamata Banerjee cited pay disparity with other states as justification for increasing MLAs’ salaries by 50 per cent, raising them from Rs 80,000 to Rs 1.2 lakh, while also granting a 36 per cent hike to the Chief Minister and ministers, bringing their salaries to Rs 1.5 lakh. Instead of addressing the growing development disparity between West Bengal and other states, she focused on the salary disparity between legislators in West Bengal and other states. In 2018, Kerala Chief Minister decided to hike salary of MLAs by almost 66 per cent citing increase in prices of electricity, diesel, and petrol. In 2016, Telangana under CM K Chandrashekara Rao gave MLAs and minister a whopping hike of 163 per cent making them the highest-paid legislators of the country with CM drawing salary of 4.1 lakh per month, ministers getting 3.5 lakh and MLAs getting 2.5 lakh per month Similarly, in 2016, the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh approved a hefty 83 per cent salary hike for its leaders despite the state already grappling with a severe debt crisis. (ANI) MPs’ salaries adjusted every 5 years based on the Cost Inflation Index, Centre’s decision prevents ‘arbitrary increase’
FRIDAY MARCH 28, 2025 5
March 28, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Boost to ONOE: JPC backs Constitutional amendments, says basic structure won’t be disrupted ONOE FROM PAGE 1 would reduce election costs. It may enhance the quality of governance. It would streamline the election cycle. Some of the major challenges would be meeting the logistical demand of EVMs, security, and staffing challenges, which would be taken into consideration. On One Nation One Election, BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahtab said, “Today’s meeting was fruitful, and many issues were discussed in the meeting. The former Chief Justice of Delhi High Court and the Attorney General of India explained the entire issue very well.” One Nation One Election is desirable subject to amendments and precautions. It would not disrupt the basic structure of the Constitution. The federal structure of the Constitution would also not be disrupted. Sources also said that the Attorney General From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- March 14, 2025 LO YOU MIGHT BE A SADIST ! By Rajan George If you revel in causing pain, If you’re gratified in others’ grief If you have no care for others, If you have no forethought that you too are human vulnerale to endure! The pain for others you inflict What befalls you be grevious more! Lo! you might be a ‘Sadist’! If you cry foul when you are vexed But can’t recall your misdeeds, Still whine and gripe, shout and scream Be reminded you are reaping what you have sown mani-fold Truly what only you deserve, Compassion won’t ride your way Lo! you might be a ‘Sadist’! When you hatch a wicked plot To wreck the people and their wealth Of those you hate without a cause, Relish all day without a care, But could not even in your dream, Afford to buy what you destroy, From your estate or by your sweat Lo! you might be a ‘Sadist’ of India R. Venkataramani proposed amendments that would lead to financial benefits and efficiency in governance. He did not see the proposed amendments conflicting with any particular constitutional principles like democracy, citizens’ participation, etc. It is not opposed to the principle of federalism as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The basic structure doctrine would not be violated by bringing in this constitutional amendment. The powers of the Election Commission as envisaged under the proposed constitutional amendments need to be more clearly delineated. It would also enhance greater accountability in governance. He did not substantiate the idea of substantial versus peripheral curtailment of the term of State Legislative Assemblies as envisaged by other experts. The statements provide arguments for and considerations regarding the implementation of the “One Nation One Election” concept, which proposes holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies in India. The statements touch upon potential benefits such as reduced costs, enhanced governance, and streamlined election cycles, while also acknowledging challenges related to logistics, INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online security, and the need for constitutional amendments and precautions. Several MPs, who are members of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on One Nation, One Election, raised concerns about the feasibility of holding simultaneous state assembly and Lok Sabha elections. They questioned how regional and national issues, which are distinct, would be addressed in a unified election process. Specifically, they sought clarity on how regional concerns would be accommodated while maintaining democratic principles, and the role of regional parties in this context. (ANI) New Delhi [India], March 26 (ANI): India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has doubled in size over last ten years, according to the latest data released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The data highlighted that the country’s GDP at current prices was USD 2.1 trillion in 2015 and is expected to reach USD 4.27 trillion by the end of 2025, marking a 100 per cent increase in just ten years. The IMF also highlights that India’s real GDP growth rate for the current year stands at 6.5 per cent, indicating a strong and stable expansion of the economy. Real GDP growth refers to the increase in the value of goods and services produced in the country after adjusting for inflation. India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world At the same time, inflation remains a crucial factor influencing economic conditions. The data stated that the inflation in the country is expected to remain at 4.1 per cent. The inflation rate is now in the central bank of the country RBI’s targeted range of 4 to 6 per cent. Inflation remains a key indicator to watch as it affects purchasing power and the cost of living. The IMF data also highlighted that the GDP per capita, which measures the average income of a citizen based on the total economic output, is estimated at USD 11,940 (or 11.94 thousand international dollars in terms of purchasing power parity). This indicates an improvement in individual prosperity and living standards over the years. However, the data also points out that India’s general government gross debt is currently 82.6 per cent of GDP. This means that the government’s total borrowings are quite high compared to the country’s economic output. A high debt level could pose challenges in managing fiscal policies, but India has continued to maintain its economic momentum despite this and the government is continuously achieving the fiscal targets. The latest IMF figures highlight India’s strong economic resilience, with a sharp rise in GDP, steady real growth, and improving income levels. However, factors like inflation and high public debt remain key areas to monitor in the coming years. (ANI) India’s GDP has doubled to USD 4.2 trn over last ten years: IMF Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST
Yet you forget the harm you’ve left, You wail and shout, demand redress, Ignoring deeds you won’t confess— Know this truth: the seeds you sow, Return in kind, a cruel echo. No mercy rides to ease your way, A wicked sadist—so they say! INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY 7 MARCH 28, 2025 If schemes you hatch to tear apart, The lives and wealth of guiltless hearts, You revel in destruction’s thrill, Yet dream not once to build or fill— Not by toil nor by your name, Only ruin is your claim. A wicked sadist—you remain! MORE Get from your retirement. 1. MORE for your money “Moving was a great decision for me! I feel confident in my future, and with predictable monthly spending. 2. MORE amenities, including a pool, I know that my needs will be taken care of.” fitness center, and restaurants. —Marge V., A community resident 3. MORE peace of mind with additional on-site care should you need it. Discover more great reasons to choose an Erickson Senior Living®-managed community. 1550760 Call 1-888-718-7402 or visit DMVSeniorLiving.com for your free brochure. Parliament passes Disaster Management Amendment Bill, Amit Shah says opposition’s concerns over centralization are misplaced New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI): A bill that seeks to shift the approach to disaster management from reactive to proactive with renewed thrust on prevention, mitigation, and preparedness was passed by Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 was passed after a reply by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who said changes that have taken place in the field of disaster management in the last 10 years have helped India emerge as a national as well as regional and global power. The bill had earlier been passed by the Lok Sabha. It will enable the government to brave calamities with a whole-ofthe-government approach by fostering seamless synergy among agencies. The legislation empowers the NDMA and the SDMA to build databases to foster better preparedness and the swiftest response. Amit Shah rejected the concerns of opposition members that there would be a centralisation of power due to provisions of the bill. He quipped that parties opposed to the BJP will stay in the opposition for the next 15-20 years, and the BJP and its allies will do whatever is to be done. “Some members raised the question of what is the need for the amendment. I want to tell them that if a building is not repaired in time, it collapses...They (Opposition) think that maybe they will come and change it, but nobody’s turn will come for the next 1520 years. Whatever has to be done, we have to do it... The Disaster Management Act was implemented for the first time in 2005,” he said. “Under this, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), SDMA (State Disaster Management Authority) and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) were formed...Now, concerns are being expressed that there will be a centralization of power. If you read the entire Bill carefully, then the biggest responsibility of implementation lies with the District Disaster Management which is under the State Government. Therefore, there is no possibility of harming the federal structure anywhere...,” he added. The bill seeks to build a disaster-resilient India by empowering response forces to shield citizens from any kind of calamity. “We all have to accept that the changes that have taken place in the field of disaster management in the last 10 years have made us emerge as a national as well as regional and global power. This bill is to sustain India’s success story for a long time. No one should misunderstand me, I am not talking about the success story of the government, but the success story of India...,” he said. The bill seeks to strengthen the efficient working of the National Disaster Management Authority and the State Disaster Management Authorities. It seeks to amend Disaster Management Act, 2005 and bring more clarity and convergence in the roles of Authorities and Committees working in the field of disaster management besides providing statutory status to certain pre-Act organisations like the National Crisis Management Committee and the High Level Committee. The bill seeks to empower the National Disaster Management Authority and the State Disaster Management Authorities to prepare the disaster plan at national level and it provides for creation of disaster database at national and state level and make provision for constitution of “Urban Disaster Management Authority” for State Capital and large cities having Municipal Corporation.
March 28, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK “If Hindus are safe, then Muslims are also safe”: UP CM Yogi Adityanath Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 26 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath assured that people from all religions are safe in the state, asserting that as a Yogi, he wishes for everyone’s happiness. The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, speaking to ANI, said that if Hindus are safe, then Muslims are also safe in his state. CM Yogi, highlighting the tolerant nature of Hindus, said that a Muslim family would feel safe among a hundred Hindu families. He, however, questioned the possibility of 50 Hindu families being safe among a hundred Muslim families. “A Muslim family is the safest among a hundred Hindu families. They will have the freedom to practice all their religious deeds. But can 50 Hindus be safe among 100 Muslim families? No. Bangladesh is an example. Before this, Pakistan was an example. What happened in Afghanistan? If there is smoke or someone is being hit, we should be careful before we get hit. That is what needs to be taken care of,” Yogi said, while adding that he treats everyone equally. CM Yogi reiterated that Muslims in Uttar Pradesh are the safest, emphasizing that communal riots in the state have stopped since the BJP came to power in 2017. “In Uttar Pradesh, Muslims are the safest. If Hindus are safe, then they are also safe. If there were riots here in UP before 2017, if Hindu shops were burning, then Muslim shops were also burning. If Hindu houses were burning, then Muslim houses were also burning. And after 2017, the riots stopped,” he added. “I am an ordinary citizen, a citizen of Uttar Aligarh (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 26 (ANI): Muslim Cleric Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain expressed his support for the closure of meat shops during the Navratri festival and said that the Muslim community would have no objection to the move as it respects the sentiments of the Hindu community. Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain said that every religion has its own sentiments and faith and stressed the importance of interfaith respect. Speaking to ANI, Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain said, “Muslims have no objection to the move as it respects the sentiments of the Hindu community. This is a matter of administration. The Muslim community will have no objection to this because every religion has its own sentiments and faith attached to it, and we all must respect it.” “Just as special care is taken of the worship during the days of Navratri, Muslims have also been taught to respect the festivals of their Hindu brothers,” he added. Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, will begin on March 30 and conclude on April 7. The festival marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and culminates with Ram Navami, Lord Ram’s birth anniversary, on the final day. The Muslim Cleric also expressed gratitude and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the BJP’s nationwide outreach program for economically weaker Muslim families ahead of Eid. In a heartfelt statement, Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to distribute ‘Saugat-eModi’ Eid kits to lakhs of underprivileged Muslims. He highlighted how the Prime Minister assessed the conditions of the marginalised Muslim community during the holy month of Ramzan, reaching out to those unable to celebrate Eid with joy. “During the sacred month of Ramzan, Prime Minister Modi ji conducted a survey of the poor, the Pradesh. And I am a Yogi who wishes for everyone’s happiness. I believe in everyone’s support and development,” the UP CM stated. He termed Sanatan Dharma as the most ancient religion in the world while asserting that there are no examples in the world where Hindu rulers, using their own strength, have established dominion over others. “Sanatan Dharma is the most ancient religion and culture in the world. You can guess from its name. Sanatan Dharma followers have not converted others to their faith. But what have they received in return? What did they gain in exchange? There is no example anywhere in the world where Hindu rulers, using their own strength, have established dominion over others. Such instances do not exist. While everyone has this mind- set–‘this belongs to me, and that belongs to someone else’–which is a product of narrow and limited intellect. In contrast, for Sanatan Dharma followers, the whole world is considered a family, guided by this universal feeling,” he said. Speaking about law and order in the state during Ram Navami and Eid, he said, “We sit with the administration from time to time, and we have already prepared an SOP for this. Uttar Pradesh is the first state that, according to the instructions of the Supreme Court, has controlled noise coming from outside its territory or has had it removed and controlled it through this communication.” Referring to violence in West Bengal last year during Ram Navami, he asserted, “If we can do it, then why can’t it be done in Bengal?” Speaking on the “Every religion has sentiments, faith”: Muslim Cleric supports closure of meat shops during Navratri weak, and the suffering members of our community who couldn’t experience the true joy of Eid. This is truly a remarkable initiative. While people from our community also extended their help, it was PM Modi ji who took this extraordinary step,” he said. Husain expressed his deep gratitude, acknowledging that PM Modi not only responded to the physical needs but also understood the emotional and psychological struggles of the people. “PM Modi ji listened to both the words of the stomach and the heart, and for that, I am extremely grateful. This gesture will always be remembered,” he added. (ANI) The exact date of Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 depends on the sighting of the crescent moon on the 29th night of Ramadan. This corresponds to March 29. If the moon is sighted, Eid will be celebrated on March 30. However, if the moon remains unseen, Ramadan will complete 30 days, and Eid will be observed on March 31. tarpaulin used to cover the mosque during Holi in Uttar Pradesh, the CM said that there are strict instructions not to throw colours at the mosque, but colours do not harmy anyone. “If you are playing with colours, it does not harm anyone’s existence. You tell me. It is not like that; there are rallies during Muharram. Doesn’t the shadow of their flag fall on any Hindu house near the temple? Does it make the Hindu house impure? These are strict instructions not to put anything that is not coloured. But even then, if it has fallen, then the administration is cleaning it and repainting it,” Yogi Adityanath said. (ANI) March 26 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has criticised the opposition for spreading misinformation about the BJP’s intentions regarding Masjids and Waqf properties. In an exclusive interview with ANI, UP CM Yogi Adityanath questioned the opposition’s motives, asking how much land they plan to take over in the name of Waqf and what welfare initiatives they have undertaken using Waqf properties. Yogi Adityanath alleged that Waqf properties have been misused for personal gain, with some properties being sold to multiple buyers, leading to disputes.“What will the BJP do by taking over the Masjids? I think they (the Opposition) are trying to mislead. In the name of Wafq, how much land will you take over? Secondly, have they done any welfare in the name of Waqf? You can’t even name one. Look, they have misused that selfishness. It has been sold at any cost. What is the situation today? They have sold one property to many people. Now there’s a dispute because of it.” Yogi Adityanath said.He emphasised that the BJP’s goal is to free Waqf properties from encroachment and misuse and ensure their use for the welfare of the community. The party has been pushing for greater transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf properties, which are meant to serve the Muslim community. Yogi Adityanath voiced his support for the Waqf Amendment, stating that it’s essential for the country’s benefit and the Muslim community. “The JPC has requested that the Waqf Amendment be made a necessity today, and it should move forward in a timely manner. I think it will be for the benefit of the country and also for the benefit of Muslims,” CM Yogi Adityanath said. “What will BJP do by taking over Masjids?”: UP CM Yogi Adityanath slams opposition for spreading misinformation on Waqf Bill New Delhi [India], property for thier personal
Now in Ashburn, VA ❖ Accounting and Bookkeeping Service ❖ Audit, Review, Compilation and Attestation Service ❖ Tax Service ❖ IRS Service ❖ Web Hosting ❖ Business Consultancy ❖ Dedicated Service with Smiling Faces ❖ Experienced and Reliable Staff Year Round ❖ Rely on 24 Years of Experience FRIDAY MARCH 28, 2025 9 Tax Season is around the corner, are you ready ? Balagan Business & Tax Services Balagan Arumugaswamy, CPA, LL.M Tel: (301) 931-1040, (301) 931-1042 Main Office: 12100 Franklin Street Beltsville, MD 20705 (301) 595-4331; (703) 723-4488; (703) 723-4458 Fax: (703) 723-1140; (301) 595-4332 Branch Offices: 44335 Premier Plaza Suite#100, Ashburn, VA 20147 E Mail: balagancpa@msn.com Website: www.balaganfinancials.com Delhi CM Rekha Gupta presents Budget 2025-26 for national capital New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI): The BJPled Delhi government is set to present the Budget 202526, its first Budget in 26 years in the national capital. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who also holds the portfolio of Finance Minister will present the Budget 2025-26 today. Before the presentation of the Budget, the chief minister is set to visit the Hanuman Temple in Connaught Place after which she will head towards Delhi Secretariat for a Cabinet meeting. The Cabinet meetings, which were usually held at the Assembly during the reign of former CM Arvind Kejriwal, will now be held at the Delhi Secretariat. Folliwng the meeting Gupta will proceed to the Vidhan Sabha and present the budget. This Budget Session is significant, as it follows the recent 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly election, which saw the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) return to power after 27 years. Earlier on Monday, a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) was tabled by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta in the Assembly. It highlighted operational inefficiencies and financial losses, leading to criticism of the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. The report evaluates DTC’s key operational and financial aspects, pointing to inefficiencies and areas needing improvement. It examines fleet management, revenue generation, operational sustainability, and adherence to public transport policies. Following the tabling of the CAG report, BJP MLA Harish Khurana slammed the previous AAP government, accusing it of mismanaging the public transport system, which resulted in financial losses and a decline in DTC’s bus fleet. Khurana, in the Delhi Assembly session, pointed out that while AAP had promised 11,000 new buses in 2013-15, the number of DTC buses decreased from 4,344 in 2015 to 3,937. He further alleged that under former Chief Minister Madan Lal Khurana, DTC was profitable, but under AAP, the corporation’s overall losses surged to Rs 8,498.33 crore, increasing by Rs 5,000 crore during AAP’s tenure. Highlighting the revenue decline, he stated that DTC’s operating income dropped from Rs 914 crore when AAP took power to Rs 558 crore. Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], March 24 (ANI): An advocate was allegedly stabbed to death in Maruthi Nagar, Hyderabad, on Monday morning, police said. According to officials, the incident occurred under the jurisdiction of IS Sadan police station. The victim, identified as E Esrayal, was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries during treatment. According to the police, the victim has been identified as E Esrayal. Authorities have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident. “A man brutally stabbed advocate E Esrayal this morning. We have registered a case and are currently investigating the matter,” said an Inspector of IS Sadan police station. Further details are awaited. (ANI) Advocate stabbed to death in Hyderabad, police launch investigation He also alleged financial irregularities, questioning why the AAP government allotted 3.18 lakh square meters of DTC land to private cluster buses without collecting Rs 225 crore in rent. Furthermore, he slammed the administration for failing to procure new buses despite having Rs 223 crore in 2022 for the Delhi Transport Department. Khurana credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s intervention for providing electric buses to Delhi, stating that 1,770 CNG buses had exceeded their operational age but were not replaced by the AAP government. The Delhi Legislative Assembly convened for its Budget Session on Monday, ahead of which CM Gupta prepared the ceremonial ‘Kheer’. The Budget Session is a crucial period in the legislative calendar, during which key financial and policy matters will be discussed and decided upon. The session is tentatively scheduled to run from March 24 to March 28, 2025, with provisions for extension if required. (ANI)
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