Politics News in English

Deccan Herald

Nov 1, 2025, 07:36 AM

Canada-US Trade Talks Halted Amidst Tariff Dispute

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Saturday that he had apologised to President Donald Trump over a political advertisement targeting Americans that had drawn the ire of the US leader. The ad, commissioned by Doug Ford, Ontario's outspoken Conservative premier who is sometimes compared to Trump, uses a snippet of Republican icon and former President Ronald Reagan saying that tariffs cause trade wars and economic disaster. In response, Trump announced that he was increasing tariffs on goods from Canada, and Washington has also halted trade talks with Canada.

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The Free Press Journal

Nov 1, 2025, 07:26 AM

Shailender Dhawan: A Journalist's Legacy Lives On

News of Shailender Dhawan's demise has come as a shock. He was 65. But he himself said he could have continued for many more years. He was closely associated with The Free Press Journal as its editor for almost two decades. He recently relocated to Chandigarh following the retirement of his wife from the Reserve Bank. I told her this morning that his heart was still in Mumbai. She corrected me saying "his heart was in FPJ." Indeed it was. Each afternoon his Man Friday Koli would drive him from his apartment in "Bank House" ensconced behind Mantralaya and drop him at the FPJ House at Nariman Point. Even before stepping into the news room Mr Dhawan, as he was respectfully called by all, would have updated himself with news from all over India and the rest of the world. Before plonking into his chair, for some strange reason he would squeeze a toy placed on the window sill of his cabin and make a noise. The mystery of this daily ritual continues unravelled. I met him first in the ancient TOI building several years ago when he was working for The Economic Times. He was a handsome, clean shaven journo and giggling girls would vie with each other to get his attention. He later sported a beard and a turban, but remained his charming self nevertheless. Extremely soft spoken, he never wore his erudition on the sleeves of his Pathan dress. He had deep insights into issues of politics, economics and Hindi film music. He was justly famous for his headings which brightened up the front page and brought a smile to the lips of readers even as they were sipping their morning cuppa. Once at the evening edit meeting we were discussing the grand victory of Gukesh over his Chinese rival. I remarked that it was the victory of sambar over chowmein. All of us had a good laugh and dispersed. To my most pleasant surprise Mr Dhawan actually made that the headline the following morning and that became a hot topic of discussion in newsrooms across the nation. He was generous to a fault. The pressure of meeting the deadline rarely ruffled him. He was extremely well networked and often his old colleagues would drop in just to say hello and have ginger tea which he would graciously order from Chayos. Good bye Mr Dhawan. May Waheguru keep you blessed wherever you are. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit:https://budgetproperties.in/

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Deccan Herald

Nov 1, 2025, 07:13 AM

Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan Wins Election Amid Violence and Controversy

Tanzania's electoral commission declared on Saturday that President Samia Suluhu Hassan had won, with nearly 98 per cent of the votes, an election that set off violent protests across the country this week. The result hands Hassan, who took power in 2021 after the death in office of her predecessor, a five-year term to govern the East African country of 68 million people. Protests erupted during Wednesday's vote for president and parliament, with some demonstrators tearing down banners of Hassan and setting fire to government buildings and police firing teargas and gunshots, according to witnesses. Demonstrators are angry about the electoral commission's exclusion of Hassan's two biggest challengers from the race and what they described as widespread repression. Tanzania's main opposition party said on Friday hundreds of people had been killed in the protests, while the UN human rights office said credible reports indicated at least 10 people were killed in three cities. The government dismissed the opposition's death toll as "hugely exaggerated" and has rejected criticisms of its human rights record.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 07:08 AM

Khalistani Group Issues Threats After Diljit Dosanjh's Gesture Towards Amitabh Bachchan on KBC

In light of Amitabh Bachchan's appearance with Diljit Dosanjh on KBC, security forces are investigating threats issued by a disbanded Khalistani group. At the same time, Diljit's scheduled performance in Melbourne is feeling the pressure, with the threat level spiking ahead of planned protest demonstrations and a troubling video from the group's chief, fueling fears of possible conflict.After Diljit Dosanjh touchedAmitabh Bachchan's feet during an episode of 'Kaun Banega Crorepati 17', a Khalistani group issued threats to the singer as well as the megastar. The banned group, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), condemned Diljit's gesture towards Big B.Now, central agencies are checking the security assessment for the megastar.Amitabh Bachchan's security is under reviewAccording to the CNN-News18 report, the central agencies are fearing an attempt on Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan. Reportedly, they are reviewing the threats. A source told the publication, "Some threats to Bachchan are under assessment by central agencies, who say that they are in connection with his recent meeting with Dosanjh, according to these sources."Diljit Dosanjh Faces Khalistani Fury: Big B Gesture Sparks Outrage Ahead of Australia Concert ShowDiljit Dosanjh's Melbourne concert faces threatOn the other hand, Australian authorities have stated that they have elevated the Melbourne threat to level 2 ahead of Diljit's concert in the country. This action was taken after calls for shutdown rallies and a direct video message from SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.It was reported that "Sources called this a calibrated influence operation rather than spontaneous outrage."As per the reports, the banned group has been using hashtags to spread and incite violence.They are posting content related to the 1984 riots.According to the earlier report, Melbourne police and intelligence agencies raised concerns over Diljit's AURA 2025 concert, which is scheduled for November 1. The agency reports stated that the group is trying to target the high-profile event.The controversyAs per the group, Diljit insulted the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh violence, which took place after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination. As per the group, at that time, Big B allegedly used the phrase "Khoon Ka Badla Khoon (Blood for Blood)". According to the group, the actor's words "unleashed violence in which over 30,000 Sikh men, women, and children were killed across India."

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 07:04 AM

US National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard Criticizes America's 'Regime Change or Nation Building' Approach Under President Donald Trump

Donald TrumpThe US national intelligence director,Tulsi Gabbard, said on Friday that America’s earlier approach of "regime change or nation building" has ended under President Donald Trump.She made the remarks at the Manama Dialogue, an annual security conference in Bahrain organised by the International Institute for Security Studies.Her comments match statements Trump made earlier this year during a visit to the Middle East.Tulsi Gabbard Admits Wrong US Foreign Policy Fueled The Rise Of ISIS And Islamist Terrorist Groups"For decades, our foreign policy has been trapped in a counterproductive and endless cycle of regime change or nation building,' said Gabbard, a former Congresswoman from Hawaii and US Army National Guard veteran."It was a one-size-fits-all approach, of toppling regimes, trying to impose our system of governance on others, intervene in conflicts that were barely understood and walk away with more enemies than allies."She added, as quoted by AP: "The results: Trillions spent, countless lives lost and in many cases, the creation of greater security threats."Her comments reflect Trump’s own view of the wars that followed the September 11, 2001 attacks. During his first term, Trump reached a deal to withdraw US troops from Afghanistan, which led to a chaotic exit in 2021 under the Biden administration. Trump has also supported Syria’s interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaida fighter who was once held in an American prison in Iraq.However, Gabbard did not mention Trump’s deployment of US warships near South America, airstrikes that killed people on boats suspected of drug trafficking, or his instruction to the CIA to carry out covert operations targeting Venezuela, which raised concerns about a possible invasion and speculation that Trump may attempt to remove its president Nicolas MaduroGabbard said challenges still exist in the Middle East. She noted that the Gaza ceasefire is “fragile” and that Iran continues to be an issue, with the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency reporting recent activity at Iranian nuclear facilities.“The road ahead will not be simple or easy but the president is very committed down this road,” Gabbard said. She attended the forum while a US government shutdown continued.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 07:01 AM

India's Trade Strategy: A Three-Step Plan to Safeguard Interests in US Talks

Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has proposed a three-step strategy to safeguard India's trade interests as discussions with the United States have stepped into the “advanced stage.”The agency has suggested measures like scaling back Russian oil imports, seeking trade parity and resuming talks on fair terms.‘Very Good…’: Trump Drops Major Russian Oil Reveal After Talks With Xi, Lauds IndiaHere’s what GTRI’s 3 step plan says:1. Halting Russian oil imports under sanctionsAccording to the think tank, the first move should be to stop importing oil from Russian companies currently under US sanctions, specifically Rosneft and Lukoil, which together account for 57% of Russia’s crude output.GTRI said that continuing to source crude from these firms exposes India to potential secondary sanctions that could extend and affect critical infrastructure.The note cautioned that more secondary sanctions might be far more damaging than tariffs, as they could disrupt SWIFT access, dollar payments and essential digital systems, potentially paralysing operations across refineries, ports and banks.2. Removal of additional tariffsOnce such imports are halted, the advisory body recommends India to “press Washington to withdraw the punitive 25% "Russian oil" tariff.” Scrapping the tariff would cut India’s duty burden in the US by half, from 50% to 25%, and improve export competitiveness.These additional duties were introduced on July 31 which the US called a "Russian oil" tariff, accusing India of fueling Moscow’s war machine. Since then, India’s overall duty burden in the US market has climbed to 50%, coinciding with a noticeable drop in exports, down 37% between May and September.3. Starting on fair termsOnly after tariffs return to normal levels, GTRI suggested to “restart trade negotiations…only on fair, balanced terms."The organisation said India should push for tariff parity with its other major trade partners by targeting average duties of roughly 15% and securing duty-free access for priority sectors such as textiles, gems and jewellery, and pharmaceuticals.Commerce minister Piyush Goyal has signalled progress on a bilateral trade agreement with the United States, saying that the negotiations have reached an “advanced stage”.The development aligns with US President Donald Trump’s recent hint that a deal with India may be imminent.According to a TOI report, the proposed trade agreement could bring down US tariffs on Indian exports from 50% to 15%. In return, India is expected to scale back purchases of Russian oil and increase energy imports from the United States, along with fulfilling other commitments.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 06:51 AM

Israel's Top Military Lawyer Resigns Amid Leak of Video Showing Alleged Abuse of Palestinian Detainee

Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi (Image: X@/RT_com)Israel’s top military lawyer, Maj Gen Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, resigned on Friday after admitting she had approved the leak of a video showing IDF soldiers allegedly abusing a Palestinian detainee.The footage was reportedly taken at the Sde Teiman detention facility during the Gaza war. Her resignation comes amid a criminal investigation into the leak.Netanyahu Faces ‘Revolt’: Unseen Clips Emerge As ‘Angry’ Israelis Storm Jerusalem Against IDFTomer-Yerushalmi submitted her resignation to IDF chief of staff Eyal Zamir on Friday, telling him she was personally responsible for leaking the video to the media.“I approved the release of material to the media in an attempt to counter the false propaganda directed against the military law enforcement authorities," Tomer-Yerushalmi wrote in her resignation letter, as cited by the Times of Israel.The investigation resulted in criminal charges against five soldiers and sparked widespread outrage. It drew criticism from right-wing politicians and led protesters to storm two military bases after investigators summoned troops for questioning.A week after the break-ins, security footage leaked to Israeli media appeared to show soldiers leading a detainee aside, surrounding him with riot shields, and using a dog to block the view of their actions, as reported by Reuters.The Sde Teiman detention camp, where the footage was taken, holds Hamas militants involved in the October 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war, as well as Palestinians captured during the following months of fighting in Gaza.Rights groups have documented serious abuses of Palestinians held in Israeli custody during the war. The Israeli military says it is investigating dozens of such cases but maintains that the abuse is not systematic, as cited by Reuters.In her resignation letter, Tomer-Yerushalmi described the Sde Teiman detainees as “terrorists of the worst kind,” but mentioned that this “does not detract from the obligation to investigate suspected abuse.”"To my regret, this basic understanding - that there are acts to which even the most vile of detainees must not be subjected - is no longer convincing to all," she said in her letter.Some politicians quickly reacted to Tomer-Yerushalmi’s resignation.Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that anyone who spreads “blood libels against Israeli soldiers” is unfit to wear the IDF uniform.During the Israel-Hamas war, the Sde Teiman detention facility held over 1,000 detainees from Gaza suspected of involvement in terrorist activities. Many were believed to have participated in Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, which killed about 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages being taken, while others were detained during the IDF’s later operations in Gaza, as cited by the Times of IsraelMore than 68,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began, including 211 deaths reported during the ceasefire period.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 06:39 AM

UAE Introduces Electronic Return Document for Golden Visa Holders

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a significant new electronic service forGolden Visa holderswho lose their passport while abroad: an electronic Return Document. This free return permit will be issued within 30 minutes. This move, as published inGulf News, is part of a broader expansion of consular services dedicated to UAE long-term residents under the Golden Visa programme.What the service offersAccording to UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the permit is valid for single-entry into the UAE only, and does not grant travel to other countries. It may be obtained via MoFA’s website or mobile app, using the applicant’s UAE Pass digital ID, and requires attachment of a lost-passport report, Golden Visa details, and a recent passport-style photo. The permit remains valid for seven days from issuance.MoFA emphasises that the emergency service is also extended to family members like spouses and children, provided they are registered as dependents on the Golden Visa holder’s valid UAE residency permit.Consular support package expandedIn collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the UAE has launched a full suite of consular services for Golden Visa holders, unveiled at the GITEX Global 2025 technology summit. These include:24/7 dedicated hotline for Golden Visa holders: +971 2 493 1133.Emergency and crisis assistance abroad: Inclusion in evacuation and repatriation plans, coordination with UAE missions overseas.Repatriation and burial support in case of death abroad, with immediate medical and authority coordination.About theUAE Golden VisaLaunched in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit (valid for 5 or 10 years and renewable) designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents, and outstanding students to live, work, or study in the UAE. Its key features include:No requirement for a local UAE sponsor (unlike standard work visas).Allows holders to change jobs, start businesses or study without visa restrictions tied to an employer.Enables the sponsor to bring family members, including spouse and children of any age, into the UAE.Some categories allow holders to remain abroad for extended periods without affecting residency status.The expansion of consular services for Golden Visa holders highlights the UAE’s strategy to treat long-term residents more like citizens when it comes to abroad-travel risks.From a practical perspective, the new scheme offers tangible support: if a Golden Visa holder loses their passport in a foreign country, they can now apply and return to the UAE quickly via this dedicated route, rather than facing lengthy embassy or consular procedures.MoFA has explicitly clarified that the return permit does not serve as a travel document for transit or onward travel to third countries. It is strictly for re-entry into the UAE.What this means for residents abroadGolden Visa holders travelling internationally should now keep in mind the new service:Maintain digital and physical copies of your Golden Visa credential and passport.In case of damage or loss of passport abroad, visit MoFA’s portal or app and submit required documents.If overseas during a crisis (natural disaster, political unrest, health emergency), the dedicated hotline and embassy coordination may support evacuation or assistance.Family members registered under the Golden Visa benefit from the same support framework.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 06:19 AM

Vice President JD Vance Proves He Can Take a Meme in Stride with Curly Wig Halloween Stunt

Vice President JD Vance proved he can take a meme in stride, posting a photo of himself in a curly wig on Friday — a tongue-in-cheek nod to the viral “bloated, smiling Vance” meme that’s been circulating online.Vance, on Friday, shared on X a photograph of himself wearing a curly brown wig to mimic the viral “fat JD” meme, in which he was depicted as bloated and smiling.Vice President JD Vance Turns Internet Trolls Into Fans With Meta Halloween Stunt | WATCHHe posted the image on his profile as a close-up of his face, with brown locks framing his widened eyes. He later unveiled his fullHalloween costumein a video on Instagram.Vance opened a door and said, “Happy Halloween. And remember to say thank you.” The clip ended with a purple filter over the vice president as he spun in a circle to the theme of “The Twilight Zone.”The “fat JD” meme first appeared online following a contentious meeting in February between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, when Vance stepped in to ask Zelenskyy if he had “ever said ‘thank you’ once?”How netizens reacted?The meme shows Vance with shoulder-length brown curls, widened eyes and an enlarged chin and cheeks, and has since been used to poke fun at the vice president. Ahead of Vance’s Halloween posts, conservative political commentator Benny Johnson on Thursday shared a video on Facebook hinting at the costume.“Yesterday I asked JD Vance point blank what his Halloween costume was going to be because I’ve seen the speculation online and, well, we all want this to happen,” Johnson said, right as a clipped-in photo of the meme appeared. “And JD Vance told me this,” Johnson continued.“‘Stay tuned. The internet is going to love this. The internet is going to love this.’ Ladies and gentlemen, your first meme lord vice president. Get ready.”Elon Musk also commented on the photo with the laughing emoji.A user on X said, "You did it. You actually did it. Thank you sir for saving the republic, the country, and the west."Another user said, "It's official, folks. JD Vance is the Great MAGA Memelord foretold by prophecy."

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 06:07 AM

Kerala Declares Freedom from Extreme Poverty, Opposition Rejects Claim

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan (File Photo)KOCHI:Keralachief ministerPinarayi Vijayanon Saturday declared in the state assembly that Kerala is now free of extreme poverty.The announcement was made during a special session of the assembly held to mark Kerala 'Piravi', the state’s formation day.The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) opposition rejected the claim, calling it “pure fraud,” and boycotted the session in protest.As proceedings began, Leader of the Opposition V. D. Satheesan criticised the declaration, saying the CM’s statement under Rule 300 was “in contempt” of House rules. “We cannot join in that and are completely boycotting the session,” he said, while leading a walkout amid slogans denouncing the government’s claim as “fraud” and “shameful.”Also read- Min: Four-year effort behind extreme poverty eradicationResponding to the allegations, CM Vijayan said the opposition’s comments reflected their own behaviour. “We only say what we can implement. We have implemented what we had said. That is our reply to the opposition leader,” he told the assembly.Extreme poverty is defined by the World Bank as living on less than Rs 180 per person per day. India’s Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index (MPI), on the other hand, considers factors such as nutrition, housing, sanitation, education, and access to basic services.According to NITI Aayog’s 2023 MPI report, only 0.55% of Kerala’s population is multidimensionally poor—the lowest rate in the country.The announcement follows the state’s Extreme Poverty Eradication Project (EPEP), launched in 2021. The initiative began with a ground-level survey conducted by Kudumbashree, in coordination with women’s self-help networks, ASHA-anganwadi workers, and local bodies. The survey identified 64,006 families—roughly 0.2% of the state’s population—living in severe deprivation.Also read-Right to disconnect: Will Kerala change India’s office culture?Individual micro-plans were then created to address each family’s specific challenges, ranging from lack of housing and land to chronic illness, absence of income, and difficulties accessing government benefits due to missing documentation.Government data shows the programme has delivered significant results: 5,422 new houses were built, and 5,522 homes were renovated. Land totalling 28.32 acres was allotted to 439 families.Around 34,672 families earned an additional Rs 77 crore through unskilled labour, while 4,394 families received support for self-employment initiatives.Health interventions included assistive devices for 579 people, organ transplant aid for seven, palliative care for 5,777, and health services for 85,721 people across 29,427 families. Food support included cooked meals for 2,210 families, food kits for 18,438 families, and daily meals for 20,648 families.The project also facilitated 21,263 instances of emergency aid and document assistance.The official declaration will be held at Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium on Kerala Piravi, the state’s formation day. Bollywood and Malayalam actors Mammootty, Mohanlal and Kamal Haasan are expected to attend as special guests, alongside state ministers and the leader of the opposition.

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The Hawk

Nov 1, 2025, 05:54 AM

US Federal Judges Order Trump Administration to Continue Food Assistance Program Amid Government Shutdown

Washington, Nov 1 (IANS) Two US federal judges ordered President Donald Trump’s administration to continue paying benefits under a food assistance programme despite a prolonged government shutdown that has left many agencies without funding. The rulings require the administration to use emergency reserves to finance the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the country’s largest food aid scheme, which helps low-income households buy groceries. The programme supports roughly 42 million Americans, about one in every eight people. The court orders came a day before the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees the programme, had planned to suspend payments because of the funding lapse. The government shutdown, now in its fifth week, has blocked many agencies from operating normally as Congress and the White House remain deadlocked over spending legislation. Judge John J. McConnell of the US District Court in Rhode Island ruled that the administration “must distribute the contingency money as soon as possible” so that benefits can continue in November. Around the same time, Judge Indira Talwani in Massachusetts ordered the government to explain by Monday how it would ensure funding for the program. Several US states and non-profit groups filed lawsuits demanding that the federal government continue issuing payments. Without intervention, millions of families risked losing access to food support from the start of November. Senator Amy Klobuchar, the top Democrat on the Senate committee overseeing agriculture and food programs, said the decision “leaves no excuse to withhold food assistance from Americans.” Speaking about the issue, Trump told reporters that the programme largely served “Democrat” voters. “When you talk about SNAP, you’re talking about largely Democrats, but I’m President. I want to help everybody. I want to help Democrats and Republicans.” SNAP, formerly known as the food stamp program, has been a central part of US welfare policy since the 1960s, providing basic nutrition assistance to low-income families. --IANS scor/rs

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The New Indian Express

Nov 1, 2025, 05:51 AM

India Closes Military Base at Tajikistan's Ayni Airbase, Described as 'Setback' for Strategic Diplomacy

Add TNIE As A Trusted Source NEW DELHI:The Congress on Saturday described India’s decision to wrap up operations at Tajikistan’s Ayni airbase as “yet another setback” for the country’s strategic diplomacy. In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said India had established the Ayni air force base in the early 2000s and had since expanded its infrastructure. “Given its strategic location, India had ambitious plans to expand its presence at Ayni,” he stated. “However, four years ago, India was given a clear message that it must gradually withdraw. It now appears that India has finally closed the base, which was its only overseas military facility,” Ramesh added. “This is, without doubt, yet another setback for our strategic diplomacy,” he remarked. Incidentally, Ayni is located approximately 10 km from Tajikistan’s capital, Dushanbe, which has a remarkable museum, Ramesh noted. One of the museum’s most striking exhibits is the Buddha of Nirvana, believed to be over 1,500 years old. India has concluded its operations at the strategically significant airbase in Ayni following the lapse of a bilateral agreement, according to sources familiar with the matter.

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Financial Express

Nov 1, 2025, 05:45 AM

Lenskart Solutions IPO GMP, Subscription Status Live Updates: Lenskart Seeks to Raise Rs 7,278 Crore Through Fresh Issue and Offer for Sale

Lenskart Solutions IPO GMP, Subscription Status Live Updates:Lenskart Solutions IPO opened for subscription today (October 31). The investors can bid for the IPO in a range of Rs 382 to Rs 402 per equity share. The company will mop up a sum of Rs 7,278.02 crore from the primary markets. The issue is a combination of 5.35 crore fresh shares amounting to Rs 2,150 crore and an offer for sale of 12.76 crore shares aggregating to Rs 5,128.02 crore. Lenskart Solutions will close the IPO subscription on November 04. The allotment for the Lenskart Solutions IPO is expected to be finalised on November 06. The issue is estimated to be listed on BSE and NSE on November 10, as per the tentative schedule. Kotak Mahindra Capital Company, Morgan Stanley India Company, Avendus Capital, Citigroup Global Markets India, Axis Capital, and Intensive Fiscal Services are the book-running lead managers for the IPO, and MUFG Intime India is working as the registrar of the issue. Lenskart Solutions is a technology-focused eyewear company involved in the design, manufacturing, branding, and retail of prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, contact lenses, and accessories. Operating under a direct-to-consumer model, the company offers a broad range of eyewear under its own brands and sub-brands, catering to all age groups and price segments. In FY25, 105 new collections were launched, including collaborations with well-known brands and personalities. As of March 2025, Lenskart operated 2,723 stores globally—2,067 in India and 656 overseas—with 1,757 owned and 310 franchised stores in India. Lenskart Solutions wil close the IPO subscription on November 04. The allotment for the Lenskart Solutions IPO is expected to be finalised on November 06. The issue is estimated to be listed on BSE and NSE on November 10, as per the tentative schedule. Lenskart reported a revenue of Rs 7,009 crore and an EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation) of Rs 971 crore, giving it a margin of around 14% for FY25. The company’s profit after tax (PAT) stood at Rs 297 crore, marking a turnaround from losses in earlier years. Its net worth as of March 31, 2025, stood at Rs 6,176 crore, while total borrowings fell to Rs 335 crore. The anchor list features major domestic mutual funds like SBI Mutual Fund, HDFC Mutual Fund, and ICICI Prudential, along with global giants such as GIC, BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, and T Rowe Price. The IPO is being managed by major investment banks such as Kotak Mahindra Capital, Morgan Stanley, Citigroup, Avendus Capital, and Axis Capital MUFG Intime India is the registrar for the issue. The stock will list on both the NSE and BSE on November 10. The company operates 2,806 stores across India and overseas, serving nearly 12 million customers. Out of this, 2,137 stores are in India, while the rest are spread across Southeast Asia, Japan, and the Middle East. Lenskart Solutions Limited’s IPO saw full subscription on the very first day, with total bids reaching 1.13x as of 5:00 PM on October 31, 2025. The Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIB) category led with 1.42x subscription, while Retail investors followed closely at 1.31x. The Non-Institutional Investor (NII) segment stood at 0.41x—with sub-categories at 0.30x (₹10L+) and 0.63x (₹2L–₹10L). The Employee portion was subscribed 1.10x. Lenskart Solutions Ltd, the tech-driven eyewear brand led by Peyush Bansal, has opened its Rs 7,000-crore IPO for subscription from October 31 to November 4. The issue includes a fresh issue worth Rs 2,150 crore and an offer for sale of up to Rs 5,128 crore. Choice Broking has rated the IPO as “Subscribe for Long Term,” citing the company’s strong growth trajectory, expanding omnichannel network, and leadership in a largely unorganised eyewear market. LSL was awarded “India’s Most Trusted Eyewear Brand of 2025” by TRA Research in FY25. The company’s centralized prescription eyeglasses supply chain and manufacturing allows to manage the supply chain operations and address customer demand for each store location. This drives the core proposition of providing better accessibility to quality eyewear products at affordable prices to a large number of customers, by enabling faster delivery for a large selection of SKUs and thereby eyewear as a ‘fast fashion’ category. They operate a direct-to-consumer model that eliminates multiple layers of intermediaries in the traditional prescription eyeglasses supply chain, enabling to deliver products to customers at an affordable cost and with next day delivery. The company will continue to expand and diversify the brand portfolio and product offerings to address evolving customer needs and enhance customer engagement. Lenskart Solutions IPO has been fully subscribed on Day 1. The total subscription so far is 1.04x. The QIB portion has been subscribed 1.39x NIIs have been subscribed 0.29x The subscription in the retail category has also exceeded 1x at 1.10 times and the subscription in employee category is at 0.94x The IPO is being managed by major investment banks such as Kotak Mahindra Capital, Morgan Stanley, Citigroup, Avendus Capital, and Axis Capital. MUFG Intime India is the registrar for the issue. The stock will list on both the NSE and BSE on November 10. As of 2:00 PM, the Lenskart IPO saw an overall subscription of 0.62 times on the first day of bidding. The retail investor portion was fully subscribed within just a few hours of opening. The qualified institutional buyers (QIB) segment was subscribed 0.68 times, while the non-institutional investor (NII) portion stood at 0.25 times, with the sub-category of bids above Rs 10 lakh at 0.17 times and those between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 10 lakh at 0.43 times. Meanwhile, the employee category saw a subscription of 0.86 times. Lenskart currently operates 2,806 stores across India and overseas, serving nearly 12 million customers. Out of this, 2,137 stores are in India, while the rest are spread across Southeast Asia, Japan, and the Middle East. Interestingly, international operations contribute about 40% of total revenue, and those markets have higher margins (75%) compared to 63% in India, mainly due to premium pricing and higher spending per customer. The funds raised from the fresh issue will be directed toward several business needs, including: - Expanding company-owned retail stores (CoCo). - Meeting lease and rental costs of retail outlets. - Investing in technology and cloud upgrades. - Spending on brand marketing and visibility. - Supporting strategic acquisitions and general corporate purposes. For FY25, Lenskart reported a revenue of Rs 7,009 crore and an EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation) of Rs 971 crore, giving it a margin of around 14%. The company’s profit after tax (PAT) stood at Rs 297 crore, marking a turnaround from losses in earlier years. Its net worth as of March 31, 2025, stood at Rs 6,176 crore, while total borrowings fell to Rs 335 crore. However, a part of the profit came from a one-time accounting gain of about Rs 167 crore related to the Owndays (Japan) acquisition. Excluding this, the company’s pre-tax margins fall below 1.5%. The Lenskart IPO, which opened for subscription at 10 AM today, saw a slow start in early trade. After two hours into bidding on Day 1 so far, the issue was subscribed 0.18 times overall. The retail investor portion was subscribed 0.72 times, while bids from non-institutional investors (NIIs) stood at 0.16 times, as of now. The qualified institutional buyers (QIB) category has not received any bids yet. Before the IPO opened to the public, Lenskart raised Rs 3,268 crore from 147 anchor investors. The anchor list features major domestic mutual funds like SBI Mutual Fund, HDFC Mutual Fund, and ICICI Prudential, along with global giants such as GIC, BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, and T Rowe Price. Several private equity and strategic investors are using the IPO to partially exit their holdings. The list includes global investors such as SoftBank, Kedaara Capital, Temasek, TPG, KKR, Premji Invest, and ChrysCapital. Meanwhile, founders Peyush Bansal, Neha Bansal, Sumeet Kapahi, and Amit Chaudhary will continue to hold a significant stake in the company after the listing. The company has set a price band of Rs 382–Rs 402 per share, with a face value of Rs 2. Investors can apply for a minimum of 37 shares (one lot), which would require about Rs 14,874 at the upper price limit. With a total issue size of nearly Rs 7,278 crore, this is among the largest IPOs of the year. The Lenskart IPO comprises two parts - a fresh issue of Rs 2,150 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) worth Rs 5,128 crore by existing shareholders and promoters. The basis of allotment is likely to be finalised on November 6, while listing on the NSE and BSE is expected on November 10. Also Read:Lenskart IPO opens today: From GMP, valuation to issue details, check 6 critical factors before you subscribe Lenskart sources part of its raw materials and eyewear frames from China, where it also runs a manufacturing joint venture - Boafeng Framekart Technology - in which it holds a 51% stake. Formed in 2018, this JV produces and sells spectacle lenses, frames, and accessories. However, any disruption in the supply of raw materials or finished goods from China due to external factors could impact the company’s operations. “Given its strong growth potential but high valuation and profitability risks, this offering is best suited for investors with a higher risk appetite and a long-term investment horizon. Thus we assign a “Subscribe for Long Term” rating for this issue,” said Choice Broking in its IPO note. The company sources some of its raw materials and frames from China, where it also operates a manufacturing facility via Boafeng Framekart Technology Ltd (JV – company holds 51% stake). The JV was incorporated in 2018 and is engaged in the production and sale of spectacle lenses, frames and accessories. The supply of...

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Economic Times

Nov 1, 2025, 05:05 AM

South Carolina's Nancy Mace: A Career Defined by Controversy and Confrontation

SynopsisNancy Mace, South Carolina's first Republican congresswoman and first female Citadel graduate, has built a political career defined by controversy and confrontation. The 2026 gubernatorial candidate's recent airport altercation with police officers exemplifies a pattern of combative behavior that has marked her tenure in Congress

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The Hawk

Nov 1, 2025, 05:00 AM

South Korea Pledges Proactive Measures to Promote Peace on Korean Peninsula

Gyeongju (South Korea), Nov 1 (IANS) South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Saturday that Seoul will continue taking preemptive measures to ease military tension and build trust with North Korea to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula. Lee made the remarks in a closing ceremony of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit held in the southeastern city of Gyeongju. "Military confrontation, tension, and nuclear issues have constrained stability and cooperation not only on the Korean Peninsula but across the entire Asia-Pacific region," Lee said. "The Republic of Korea seeks to open a new chapter on the Korean Peninsula through peaceful coexistence and co-prosperity, guided by the principle of resolving issues through dialogue," he added, referring to South Korea's official name. He added that South Korea has already taken preemptive steps to ease military tensions and restore trust between the two Koreas, pledging to continue even more proactive measures to advance peace, Yonhap news agency reported. Lee emphasised that peace is the basic foundation of a sustainable future in the Asia-Pacific region, calling for support from APEC members for Seoul's efforts to promote peace. "Peace on the Korean Peninsula is an essential condition for the prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region," he said. "The path toward peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula can be realised with the support and cooperation of all APEC members." In a closing ceremony, Lee formally handed over the APEC chairmanship to Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose country will host next year's summit in the southeastern city of Shenzhen. Meanwhile, leaders of 21 Asian and Pacific Rim nations are to set to wrap up their annual economic forum on Saturday after President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed on a temporary truce on their trade war, generating relief around the world. --IANS int/jk/

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 04:58 AM

Nuapada By-Poll: CM Mohan Charan Majhi and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik Gear Up for Campaign Trail

Former CM Naveen Patnaik ,Chief minister Mohan Charan MajhiBhubaneswar: Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi and leader of opposition and former CMNaveen Patnaikare set to hit the campaign trail in Nuapada next week, as the three major political parties -BJP, BJD, and Congress - intensify efforts ahead of the Nov 11 bypoll.BJP has scheduled roadshows featuring the chief minister across Nuapada, Khariar Road, and Komna on Nov 6 and 7.Meanwhile, BJD is preparing for a public meeting to be addressed by Naveen Patnaik in Komna on Monday, followed by his roadshow across various parts of the assembly segment on Nov 7.Panchayati raj minister Rabi Narayan Naik, who campaigned for BJP candidate Jay Dholakia by leading a march in Kurumpuri panchayat under Komna block on Thursday, claimed that public support for the BJP is overwhelming.Min: BJP isheaded for a landmark winNaik said people recognise the state govt under CM Mohan Charan Majhi as one that delivers on its promises, unlike the previous administration, which he said left Nuapada lagging behind other districts in development. "BJP is headed for a landmark win," Naik said.Deputy leader of opposition and senior BJD MLA Prasanna Acharya countered that Nuapada is witnessing growing disenchantment with the incumbent govt.He emphasised that Naveen Babu remains highly popular among the people, who, he said, miss the developmental initiatives launched during his tenure. "They will teach the BJP a lesson and vote for BJD's Snehangini Chhuria," Acharya said.Echoing similar sentiments, BJD MLA Arun Sahoo described the BJP's 500-day tenure as a complete failure, which he believes will be reflected in the bypoll outcome.Congress leader Lalatendu Mohapatra declared that Congress candidate Ghasiram Majhi is poised to win the Nuapada bypoll. BJP convened a high-level meeting of its key workers in Nuapada on Thursday. State BJP president Manmohan Samal, deputy CM K V Singhdeo, party's regional in-charge Sunil Bansal, state in-charge Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, attended.

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Deccan Herald

Nov 1, 2025, 04:43 AM

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Calls for Vote to Retain Power and Bring Development

Now, that the Bihar Assembly elections are at the doorstep, just five days before the first phase of the polls, that is November 6, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his thoughts in a fresh video message to the people of Bihar. "Dear all, let us together build a new Bihar," he wrote in a video post. He highlighted his government's achievements since 2005 in the message. He emphasised that all the work has been done by his government till date, keeping in mind the people of the state, and not him or his family. Kumar also slammed the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) for its "Jungle Raj", before he took the charge in Bihar. He said, "When we took the charge, being called a Bihari was considered an insult. Since then, we have served you with complete honesty and hard work." He claimed that the work has been done for everyone, without ignoring any religion (Hindu, Muslim), upper castes, backward castes, extremely backward castes, Dalits. "We have worked for all, and not for our families." "Now, being a Bihari is not an insult, but an honour," he added. Furthermore, Bihar's JDU Chief expressed that only NDA can bring back the Bihar's continuous development, while praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government and his role in the development of the state. "With NDA governments at both the Centre and the state, the pace of development has accelerated significantly," he said. He also urged people to vote for the NDA in larger numbers once again, in order to retain power in the government, so that "he could bring more development to the state". "Give us one more chance. We will develop Bihar in such a way that it will be included among the top states. Therefore, please reach your polling booth in maximum numbers and cast your vote," he said. Bihar will vote in two phases on November 6 and 11, in a crucial Assembly election that will decide whether Nitish Kumar-led coalition could retain power or RJD can return to form government.

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Deccan Herald

Nov 1, 2025, 04:43 AM

Telangana CM Accuses BRS and BJP of Secret Alliance, Obstructing Development

Hyderabad: Telangana Chief MinisterA Revanth Reddyon Friday accused the BRS and BJP of maintaining a "bond" and attacked BRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao and Union Minister G Kishan Reddy for spreading "canards" against the Congress government and creating "hurdles" for the development of the state. Launching an election campaign in support of party candidate V Naveen Yadav for the Jubilee Hills assembly bypoll here, Revanth Reddy alleged that Kishan Reddy was stalling development of Hyderabad by obstructing expansion of the Hyderabad Metro Rail project and Musi rejuvenation project. "The BJP leaders maintaining secret relations with BRS and the BJP’s victory in eight Lok Sabha seats (during 2024 polls) was an evidence for it. Did the two Union Ministers (Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar) bring any funds to the state," he asked. He charged that the BJP MPs are canvassing in Jubilee Hills without asking for funds from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for development of Telangana. Stating that the Congress has taken up development projects worth Rs 4,000 crore in Secunderabad Cantonment after the party won the by-election there, the CM appealed to the Jubilee Hills voters to support the Congress candidate Naveen Yadav. "It is high time for development of the constituency and not the sentiment. It will be a historic mistake if the Congress nominee is not voted to win the by-election," he said. Revanth Reddy also hit out at BRS Working President KT Rama Rao for not taking care of Jubilee Hills during his tenure as the Municipal Administration and Urban development minister for 10 years. "The then (BRS) rulers looted the state and never visited Jubilee Hills to address the public grievances," he further alleged. The chief minister also questioned the BJP for raising objections on inducting Congress leader Mohammed Azharuddin as a minister in his Cabinet. "Why is the BJP so upset after Azharuddin is given a ministerial post," he asked. Revanth Reddy said that he will take the responsibility of the development of Jubilee Hills with the support of Azharuddin and Naveen Yadav soon after the by-elections. The high-stakes bypoll to Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency here would take place on November 11, with votes to be counted on November 14. The bypoll is necessitated by the death of BRS MLA Maganti Gopinath in June this year, following a heart attack.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 04:35 AM

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Releases Video Message Ahead of Assembly Elections

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar releases a video message for the voters ahead of assembly electionsNEW DELHI: Bihar chief ministerNitish Kumaron Saturday released a video message for the voters ahead of assembly elections, thanking them for their support to JD(U) since 2005 and urged them to vote in large to ensure victory of NDA candidates.The JD(U) supremo also took a dig at Lalu Prasad Yadav over dynastic politics, saying that "we did nothing for own family."In a video message, Kumar thanked the people of Bihar for supporting him and his party since 2005 and lashed out at the previous government, saying, "The situation of the first system was terrible."Voters From Araria And Jokihat Reveal Poll Mood Ahead Of Bihar Assembly ElectionsFollow Live Updates'Being a Bihari was a matter of insult'"My dear brothers and sisters of Bihar, you have allowed me to serve the people of Bihar since 2005. We want to tell you that the situation in which we got Bihar at that time, being a Bihari, was a matter of insult.Since then, we have served you day and night with full honesty and hard work," the Bihar CM said in the video message.He added that his party, since coming into power worked on different issues ranging from education to health, agriculture, youth and more to improve the situation of the state.'We have not done anything for our family': Nitish's dig at Lalu"You know that the situation of the first system was very bad. First of all, the work was done to rectify it. Along with that, education, health, roads, electricity, drinking water, agriculture, and for the youth, the situation of employment was greatly improved," he said.Also read- Bihar polls: Is Lalu trying to insulate son from opposition's 'jungle raj' attack? Not seen in RJD posters or in publicHe further attacked Lalu for doing nothing during his term as CM of Bihar and also hit out at him over dynastic politics."The previous government did not do any work for women. We have now made women so strong that they are no longer dependent on anyone and can do all the work for their families and children. We want to tell you that we have developed all the classes of society from the beginning. Whether you are a Hindu, a Muslim, an upper caste, a backward, a very backward, a Dalit, a Mahadalit, we have worked for everyone.We have not done anything for our family.Now, being a Bihari is not a matter of insult, but a matter of respect," he added.Bihar CM urges people to vote in large numbersThe Bihar CM further said that with the support of PM Modi speed of development in the state has increased a lot.Also read- Bihar elections 2025: PM Modi waves 'gamcha' during Muzaffarpur visit - watch"Therefore, I request you to make the candidates of NDA victorious in the elections this time. Give us one more chance. After this, more work will be done, which will develop Bihar so much that it will be included among the top states. Therefore, on November 6 and November 11, you should reach your voting centres and vote as much as possible. Jai Hind. Jai Bihar," he added.

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Siasat News✓

Nov 1, 2025, 04:31 AM

Telangana Chief Minister Accuses BRS and BJP of Joining Hands Against Congress in Jubilee Hills By-election

Hyderabad: Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy has alleged a strong understanding between the BRS and BJP, specifically in the context of the Jubilee Hills bypoll,, comparing it to a “Fevicol-like bond”, and accused K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), KT Rama Rao (KTR), and Kishan Reddy of obstructing Telangana’s progress. Launching the Congress campaign for the Jubilee Hills by-election from Vengal Rao Nagar, the chief minister conducted a roadshow at Vengal Rao Nagar and Somajiguda, where a large number of people turned out to welcome him enthusiastically. Revanth Reddy said both BRS and BJP have joined hands to prevent Congress from winning in Jubilee Hills. He urged voters to elect Congress candidate Naveen Yadav for the all-around development of the constituency, adding that the previous BRS MLA had “ignored” the area for the past 10 years. Dismissing claims of a sympathy wave for BRS, Revanth reminded that when P. Janardhan Reddy passed away in 2007, both BRS and BJP had fielded candidates against Congress, while Chandrababu Naidu’s party refrained from contesting. He asserted that there is no wave in favor of BRS this time and that the people want real development. The chief minister said projects worth over Rs 200 crore have been sanctioned for Jubilee Hills in the last three months. He identified Union Minister Kishan Reddy as the “main obstacle” to the Musi Riverfront project and Hyderabad’s progress, saying that as Secunderabad MP, he “never cared to address the problems of Jubilee Hills.” Revanth also criticised KT Rama Rao (KTR), questioning why the BRS leader, despite holding the post of Municipal Administration Minister for ten years, “had failed to focus on Jubilee Hills’ development.” He further remarked that both the BJP and the BRS were criticising the Congress government for including a Muslim in the state cabinet. “Why should they object to including Mohammad Azharuddin in the cabinet, who once captained India in cricket?” Revanth asked. He warned that voting for BRS would endanger all the welfare schemes launched by the Congress government for the poor, alleging that BRS wants these initiatives to be discontinued. Revanth expressed confidence that just as the Congress candidate won in the Cantonment constituency, Naveen Yadav would win in Jubilee Hills too. Listing government welfare programs, the chief minister instructed Azharuddin and Naveen Yadav to ensure the development of the area and extend all possible help to the poor. To attract Andhra-origin voters, Revanth announced plans to install statues of the late NT Rama Rao (NTR) at Ameerpet and Vengal Rao Nagar. He also promised welfare initiatives for film industry workers and their families. Telangana PCC President Mahesh Kumar Goud, Ministers Nageshwar Rao, D. Sridhar Babu and Mohammad Azharuddin, and Congress candidate Naveen Yadav also addressed the gathering.

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Deccan Herald

Nov 1, 2025, 04:31 AM

Kerala Chief Minister Declares State Free of Extreme Poverty Amid Opposition Controversy

Thiruvananthapuram:KeralaChief MinisterPinarayi Vijayanon Saturday declared in the assembly that the state was free of extreme poverty. Vijayan made the announcement in a special session of the House convened on the occasion of Kerala 'Piravi' or formation day. The Congress-led UDF opposition termed as "pure fraud" the state government's claim and boycotted the session in protest. As the special Assembly session commenced, Leader of Opposition in the state assembly V D Satheesan said that the CM's statement via rule 300 was "pure fraud" and in "contempt" of House rules. "So, we cannot join in that and are completely boycotting the session," Satheesan said. The opposition then walked out of the House shouting slogans that the claim was a "fraud" and that it was "shameful". Responding to the opposition allegation, the CM said the UDF was referring to its own behaviour when they say "fraud". "We only say what we can implement. We have implemented what we had said. That is our reply to the opposition leader," he said.

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Business Standard

Nov 1, 2025, 04:13 AM

Xi Jinping Warns Against Aligning with US on Supply Chains at Apec Summit

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday cautioned global leaders against aligning with the United States in efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains, according to a report by The New York Times.In his opening speech on the final day of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit, Xi said, “Apec economies should oppose protectionism, resist unilateral bullying, and prevent the world from returning to the law of the jungle.”The Chinese president called for stronger industrial supply chains, subtly criticising Western attempts to move production away from China. He added that China would “join hands, not let go,” and focus on “extending chains, not breaking them.”Xi’s remarks came as China remained the only superpower present at the summit after US President Donald Trump left South Korea a day earlier.Gaps in China’s call for unityWhile Xi called for greater unity, Beijing’s recent actions have undercut its message. Earlier this month, China proposed broad new export controls on rare earth metals, a move that could give it substantial leverage over countries dependent on these materials.Also ReadXi, Carney, meeting in South Korea, try to rebuild China-Canada relationsXi vows to defend free trade at APEC summit as Trump skips meetingApec leaders open summit after Trump-Xi move to ease trade tensionsXi refutes Trump's claim that China had no role in Thai-Cambodia peace dealTrump drops China tariffs from 57% to 47% after meeting Xi in South KoreaAlthough Beijing claimed the measures were a response to US trade restrictions, the proposal raised concerns among nations reliant on China for rare earth supplies. China accounts for about 90 per cent of the world’s rare earth production, essential for semiconductors, batteries, and aircraft manufacturing.Trump calls Xi a 'great leader' after tariff rollbackXi’s comments followed a meeting with US President Donald Trump, which appeared to signal a slight thaw in bilateral tensions. After the meeting, the US reduced tariffs on Chinese goods from 57 per cent to 47 per cent, while Xi agreed to curb the export of chemicals used to make fentanyl, a synthetic opioid driving a major public health crisis in the US.Both leaders were seen engaging in candid discussion, with Trump calling Xi “a great leader” but “a tough negotiator.”The meeting suggested improving ties between Washington and Beijing, which had recently soured following reports that China could expand export curbs on key materials like rare earth minerals. The escalation had prompted Trump to threaten additional tariffs of up to 100 per cent, starting November 1.

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DD News✓

Nov 1, 2025, 04:10 AM

Tanzania's Opposition Claims Hundreds Killed in Election Protests; UN Calls for Investigation

Tanzania’s main opposition party said on Friday hundreds of people had been killed in protests over elections this week, as the U.N. secretary-general called for an investigation into allegations of excessive use of force. The U.N. human rights office said credible reports indicated at least 10 people were killed in protests in three cities, the first public estimate of any fatalities by an international body since Wednesday’s vote. The foreign ministers of Britain, Canada and Norway issued a joint statement expressing concern over the situation and urging the Tanzanian authorities to act with maximum restraint and to respect the right of assembly and of free expression. Speaking to Reuters in some of the government’s first public comments on the unrest, Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo said the opposition’s death toll was “hugely exaggerated” but that the authorities had not yet tabulated casualties. He denied that security officers had used excessive force. Reuters could not independently verify the casualty figures. Protesters have taken to the streets since Wednesday, angered by the exclusion of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s two biggest challengers from the race and what they described as widespread repression. Witnesses have said police fired tear gas and gunshots to break up some demonstrations. Police have imposed an overnight nationwide curfew over the past two nights after government offices and other buildings were set ablaze. Internet access has been disrupted since Wednesday. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called “for a thorough and impartial investigation into all allegations of excessive use of force” and deplored the loss of life. Partial election results announced on Thursday and Friday showed Hassan winning commanding majorities across the country, and complete results were expected in the coming hours. HEAVY SECURITY PRESENCE The unrest presents a test for Hassan, who won praise after taking office in 2021 for easing repression but has more recently faced criticism from opposition parties and activists after a series of arrests and alleged abductions of opponents. Hassan has denied allegations of widespread rights abuses. She said last year she had ordered an investigation into reports of abductions, but no official findings have been released. Soldiers and police patrolled the streets of the commercial capital Dar es Salaam on Friday, preventing people from moving around without a valid reason. John Kitoka – a spokesperson for the CHADEMA party which was barred from the election for refusing to sign a code of conduct and had its leader arrested for treason in April – said the party had documented about 700 deaths since Wednesday based on accounts from health workers. He said protests continued on Friday in several cities, although they had waned in some due to the heavy security. “We are calling for the protests to continue until our demands for electoral reforms are met,” Kitoka told Reuters. GOVERNMENT SAYS VIOLENCE LIMITED Foreign Affairs Minister Kombo said there had only been a “very few small pockets of incidents during the election period” and that the violence was caused by criminal elements. “Most Tanzanians are so much disappointed with what has happened and they are calling for their government to end this impunity,” he said. U.N. human rights spokesperson Seif Magango told reporters there were credible reports of at least 10 people killed in Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga and Morogoro. One Dar es Salaam resident, who asked not to be named for safety reasons, told Reuters a family member had been shot dead outside a hospital when he was mistaken for a protester. A police spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment. (Reuters)

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Financial Express

Nov 1, 2025, 04:06 AM

Congress Announces Major Reshuffle in Delhi Unit Ahead of MCD By-Elections

TheCongresson Friday announced a major organisational reshuffle in itsDelhiunit, appointing six new District Congress Committee (DCC) Presidents while also naming senior observers and ward in-charges for the upcoming Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) by-elections. According to an official release issued by AICC General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal, Congress PresidentMallikarjun Khargehas approved the appointments with immediate effect. The newly appointed Congress’ Delhi unit District Presidents include Mahender Bhaskar (Karol Bagh); Mohammad Usman (Chandni Chowk); Rajesh Yadav (Najafgarh); Sumit Sharma (Krishna Nagar); Virender Sharma (Mehrauli), and Mohinder Mangla (New Delhi). Political analysts believe that the fresh appointments are aimed towards strengthening the grand old party’s district-level leadership in the national capital ahead of the crucial MCD bypoll. The statement further mentioned the appointment of Senior Observers and Ward Incharges for 12 wards across Delhi, indicating the party’s structured approach to the upcoming local electoral exercise. For the Chandni Chowk ward (No. 74), Rajesh Lilothia has been appointed Senior Observer with Sharanjeet Sharma as Ward In-charge, while Haroon Yusuf and Jagjivan Sharma will oversee Chandni Mahal (No. 76). Hari Shankar Gupta and Satender Sharma will manage Shalimar Bagh-B (No. 56), and C.P. Mittal and Praveen Bhugra will handle Ashok Vihar (No. 65). In East Delhi’s Vinod Nagar (No. 198), Anil Chaudhary has been named Senior Observer, with Mujeeb Rehman as Ward In-charge. Vijay Lochav and Charanjeet Rai will look after Naraina (No. 139), while Abhishek Dutt and Neetu Verma Soni will manage Greater Kailash (No. 173). The list also includes Jag Pravesh and Gopal Thakur for Mundka (No. 35), Kamal Kant Sharma and Rajesh Yadav for Dwarka-B (No. 120), and Krishna Tirath with J.P. Panwar for Dichau Kalan (No. 128). For South Delhi wards, Hassan Ahmed and Chanderkant Giri will oversee Sangam Vihar-A (No. 163), while Jitender Kochar and Jai Prakash have been assigned Dakshin Puri (No. 164). The appointments come as the party seeks to revitalise its ground-level presence in Delhi. According to sources, the new organisational structure is expected to streamline coordination between district units and the Pradesh Congress Committee during the forthcoming by-elections.

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NorthEast Now

Nov 1, 2025, 04:00 AM

MNF Leader Launches Scathing Attack on Ruling ZPM, Predicts No Chance of Winning Next Assembly Elections

Aizawl:Mizoram’s main opposition,Mizo National Front (MNF)leader and former minister Lalruatkima, on Friday launched a scathing attack on the rulingZoram People’s Movement (ZPM), saying it has no prospect of winning the next assembly elections in 2028.Addressing a party workers’ meet of MNF’s Serlui South block at Buhchangphai village in Kolasib district, Lalruatkima alleged that people are not satisfied with the rule of ZPM and that the party has lost its influence.He said the ZPM government raised taxes and collected cess for road construction, but the condition of the roads has not improved.“ZPM is in the ICU and on its dying bed. People were dissatisfied and worried during the two years of its rule. ZPM has no prospect of winning the next assembly polls in 2028,” the former Rural Development Minister said.Hitting out at the Congress, he said the party’s influence has dwindled in Mizoram because it has declined in Delhi and other parts of the country.Lalruatkima expressed confidence that the MNF will win the upcoming assembly bypoll for the Dampa seat.“MNF is the only contender most likely to win the bypoll. The ruling ZPM has chosen the wrong candidate, and people have no faith in the Congress. There is no other party that will win both theDampa bypolland the assembly polls in 2028,” he said.Polling for the Dampa bypoll will be held on November 11, where 20,790 voters, including 10,185 female voters, are eligible to exercise their franchise to decide the fate of five candidates. Counting of votes will be held on November 14.The ruling ZPM has fielded Mizo singer and preacher Vanlalsailova; the main opposition MNF has nominated party senior vice president and former Health Minister R. Lalthangliana; and Congress has fielded party vice president and former Transport Minister John Rotluangliana.The BJP has nominated Lalhmingthanga, who recently joined the party, while former Chief Minister Brig. T Sailo’s party, the People’s Conference, has fielded its vice president K. Zahmingthanga.The Dampa bypoll was necessitated by the death of incumbent MNF MLA Lalrintluanga Sailo on July 21.Related

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The New Indian Express

Nov 1, 2025, 03:49 AM

West Bengal's Voter Roll Revision Sparks Anxiety Among Matua Community

Add TNIE As A Trusted Source KOLKATA:As West Bengal braces for a fresh voter roll revision, panic, anger, and suspicion are rippling through the Matua heartland, leaving both the BJP and TMC cornered in their most crucial refugee bastion amid fears of mass disenfranchisement under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). For the Matuas, a Hindu refugee community with a decisive presence in over 40 assembly seats across the border districts of North 24 Parganas, Nadia, and parts of South 24 Parganas, the Election Commission's decision to conduct the first SIR since 2002 to remove duplicate, deceased, and ineligible voters has revived anxieties over identity and citizenship. Those not on the 2002 voter list must now furnish documents to prove eligibility. Thousands of Matuas have migrated from Bangladesh over decades, often without proper documentation, unsettling not only the community but also the TMC and BJP, long locked in a tug-of-war for their support. Union minister and Bongaon MP Shantanu Thakur, the BJP's most prominent Matua face, attempted to reassure them, saying, “There is no need to worry if names of refugee Matuas are deleted. They will get Indian citizenship under the CAA.”

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 03:41 AM

Russia's Use of INF-Banned Cruise Missile Against Ukraine Raises Tensions

AP file photoRussia has, in recent months, used a cruise missile against Ukraine that led US President Donald Trump to withdraw from a key nuclear arms control pact with Moscow back in 2019.The 9M729 missile, reportedly developed in secret, prompted the United States to withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty during Donald Trump’s first term.Putin 'BOMBS' Ukraine With Russia's 9M729 Cruise Missile; Is This Why Trump Ordered Nuclear Tests?Signed in 1987 by-then US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev near the end of the Cold War, the INF Treaty banned all ground-launched missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers.The agreement aimed to reduce the concentration of potentially nuclear-armed weapons deployed by Russia and Nato across Europe, as cited by the Kyiv Independent.Russia has launched the 9M729 missile at Ukraine 23 times since August and had previously fired it twice in 2022, a senior Ukrainian official said, as cited by Reuters.What is the 9M729?Washington has accused Russia of violating the treaty by developing the 9M729 missile, which it says can travel well beyond the 500 km (310 miles) limit, a claim that Moscow has denied.According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies’ Missile Threat project, the missile is capable of carrying either a nuclear or conventional warhead and has a range of up to 2,500 km. One such missile fired by Russia on October 5 flew more than 1,200 km before striking Ukraine, a military official said, as cited by Reuters."Russia's use of the INF-banned 9M729 against Ukraine in the past months demonstrates (President Vladimir) Putin's disrespect to the United States and President Trump's diplomatic efforts to end Russia's war against Ukraine," Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's foreign minister, said in written remarks to Reuters.Images from the aftermath of a Russian strike on October 5 showed debris from a residential building hit in the Ukrainian village of Lapaiivka, where four people were killed.The village lies more than 600 km from Russian territory, and the fragments included two missile parts, one of them a tube with wiring, both marked 9M729, as reported by Reuters.Meanwhile, Russia has tested its nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile last week and announced on Wednesday that it had also conducted a test of its nuclear-powered Poseidon torpedo.Trump on Friday also reaffirmed plans to resume nuclear testing, days after announcing that he had instructed the Pentagon to restart weapons tests.

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AIR News✓

Nov 1, 2025, 03:35 AM

US Lawmakers Urge Trump to Reconsider H1-B Visa Proclamation Amid Concerns Over US-India Ties

US lawmakers have urged President Donald Trump to reconsider his proclamation on H1-B visas, including the USD 100,000 fee, asserting that Indian nationals are central to American leadership in IT and AI, and the restrictions will negatively impact US-India ties. US Representative Jimmy Panetta, along with Members of Congress Ami Bera, Salud Carbajal and Julie Johnson, wrote to President Trump on the issue. The lawmakers expressed concern over President Trump’s ‘Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers’ proclamation on the H1-B visa programme that imposes a USD 100,000 fee on new petitions amid other restrictions. They urged him to reconsider his 19th of September proclamation in light of the decision’s potentially negative impacts on the US-India relationship. They stressed that many of America’s most successful companies were founded or led by former H-1B holders, who drive new businesses and job creation and keep the United States at the forefront of technological progress.

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Business Standard

Nov 1, 2025, 03:23 AM

Trump Calls for Senate Rule Change to End Shutdown, But Republican Leaders Reject Proposal

Back from a week abroad, President Donald Trump threw himself into the shutdown debate, calling on the Senate to scrap the filibuster and reopen the government, an idea swiftly rejected Friday by Republican leaders who have long opposed such a move.Trump pushed his Republican Party to get rid of the Senate rule that requires 60 votes to overcome objections and gives the minority Democrats a check on GOP power.In the chamber that's currently split, 53-47, Democrats have had enough votes to keep the government closed while they demand an extension of health care subsidies. Neither party has seriously wanted to nuke the rule.THE CHOICE IS CLEAR INITIATE THE NUCLEAR OPTION,' GET RID OF THE FILIBUSTER, Trump said in a late night social media post Thursday.Trump's sudden decision to assert himself into the shutdown now in its 31st day bringing the highly charged demand to end the filibuster is certain to set the Senate on edge. It could spur senators toward their own compromise or send the chamber spiralling toward a new sense of crisis.Also ReadSeveral arrested in Michigan in Halloween weekend attack plot: FBI directorUS strategy of regime change over, focus now on stability: Tulsi GabbardBest of BS Opinion: The night, the noise, and the need for balanceKing Charles destroys his brother over Epstein scandal, America dithersUS cancels Trump-Putin Budapest meeting over Russia's 'maximalist' demandsRepublican leaders responded quickly, and unequivocally, setting themselves at odds with Trump, the president few have dared to counter.Senate Majority Leader John Thune has repeatedly said he is not considering changing the rules to end the shutdown, arguing that it is vital to the institution of the Senate and has allowed them to halt Democratic policies when they are in the minority.The leader's position on the importance of the legislative filibuster is unchanged, Thune spokesman Ryan Wrasse said Friday.A spokeswoman for Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, the No. 2 Republican, said his position opposing a filibuster change also remains unchanged. And former GOP leader Mitch McConnell, who firmly opposed Trump's filibuster pleas in his first term, remains in the Senate.House Speaker Mike Johnson also defended the filibuster Friday, while conceding it's not my call, from his chamber across the Capitol.The safeguard in the Senate has always been the filibuster, Johnson said, adding that Trump's comments are the president's anger at the situation.Broad GOP support for filibusterEven if Thune wanted to change the filibuster, he would not currently have the votes to do so in the divided Senate.The filibuster forces us to find common ground in the Senate, Republican Sen. John Curtis of Utah posted on X Friday morning, responding to Trump's comments and echoing the sentiments of many of his Senate Republican colleagues. Power changes hands, but principles shouldn't. I'm a firm no on eliminating it.Debate has swirled around the legislative filibuster for years. Many Democrats pushed to eliminate it when they had full power in Washington, as the Republicans do now, four years ago. But they ultimately didn't have the votes after enough Democratic senators opposed the move, predicting such an action would come back to haunt them.Little progress on shutdownTrump's demand comes as he has declined to engage with Democratic leaders on ways to end the shutdown, on track to becoming the longest in history.He said in his post that he gave a great deal of thought to his choice on his flight home from Asia and that one question that kept coming up during his trip was why powerful Republicans allow the Democrats to shut down parts of the government.But later Friday he did not mention the filibuster again as he spoke to reporters departing Washington and arriving in Florida for a weekend at his Mar-a-Lago home.While quiet talks are underway, particularly among bipartisan senators, Trump has not been seriously involved. Democrats refuse to vote to reopen the government until Republicans negotiate an extension to the health care subsidies. The Republicans say they won't negotiate until the government is reopened.From coast to coast, fallout from the dysfunction of the shuttered federal government is hitting home. SNAP food aid is scheduled to shut off. Flights are being delayed with holiday travel around the corner. Workers are going without paychecks.And Americans are getting a first glimpse of the skyrocketing health care insurance costs that are at the centre of the stalemate.People are stressing, said Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, as food options in her state grow scarce.We are well past time to have this behind us.Money for military, but not food aidThe White House has moved money around to ensure the military is paid, but refuses to tap funds for food aid. In fact, Trump's big, beautiful bill signed into law this summer, delivered the most substantial cut ever to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programme, known as SNAP, projected to result in some 2.4 million people off the programme.Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said Friday the agency cannot release contingency funds to keep SNAP running, an issue now facing a legal challenge in court.We are holding food over the heads of poor people so that we can take away their health care, said Rev. Ryan Stoess during a prayer with religious leaders at the US Capitol.God help us, he said, when the cruelty is the point.Deadlines shift to next weekThe House remains closed under Johnson with no plans to resume the session, and senators left for the weekend and are due back Monday.The next inflection point comes after Tuesday's off-year elections the New York City mayor's race, as well as elections in Virginia and New Jersey that will determine those states' governors. Many expect that once those winners and losers are declared, and the Democrats and Republicans assess their political standing with the voters, they might be ready to hunker down for a deal.If the shutdown continues into next week, it would surpass the 35-day lapse that ended in 2019, during Trump's first term, over his demands to build the US-Mexico border wall.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 03:20 AM

US Representative Nancy Mace Confronts Airport Security Over Special Treatment

Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) on Friday reportedly cursed at police officers and Transportation Security Administration personnel at Charleston International Airport, calling them “f***ing incompetent” and demanding treatment she believed befitted a member of Congress, according to an incident report.The episode took place this week when officers from the Charleston County Aviation Authority Police Department arrived at the ticketing curb at 6.30 am and, finding no sign of the congresswoman, located her around 7 am at a trusted traveller checkpoint.The report says Mace began shouting at officers, insisting “this is no way to treat a US representative” as she was escorted to her gate.“The entire walk to gate B-8 she was cursing and complaining and often doing the same into her phone,” an officer wrote.“After standing in the vicinity of B-8 for several minutes with her continuing her tirade, she finally boarded the aircraft.”Nancy Mace refutes claims, calls it 'fake'Mace called the reports fake news. On X, Mace shared a video of her arrival and challenged media accounts, writing “for the FAKE NEWS: This is the entrance ALL Members of Congress use at the airport. Are you going to write that Senators Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott use the same entrance or no? Or no?”A spokesperson for Mace, Cameron Morabito, told Newsweek via email, “Apparently, simply arriving at an airport now makes headlines if you’re leading the race for Governor.We are forced to take the Congresswoman’s safety extremely seriously. After the world watched Charlie Kirk’s assassination, the threats against her have only intensified. Our security procedures are based solely on legitimate safety concerns, and any attempt to politicise this reality is both dangerous and reckless.”Mace also criticised The Post & Courier of Charleston, accusing the paper of getting the story “wrong” and asserting, “Once again, The Post and Courier gets it wrong.All federally elected officials including Senators Scott and Graham use the same Crew Member Access Point at airports. That’s the federal security protocol. Maybe check your facts next time.”She further accused her fellow gubernatorial candidate Alan Wilson of “spying on me at the airport” and wrote, “I wish Alan Wilson spent as much time prosecuting p*dophiles as he does spying on me at the airport.”The episode also comes as airport security and TSA personnel face heightened pressure amid the ongoing govt shutdown, which has strained staffing and operations.It remains unclear whether TSA or airport police will take any disciplinary action related to the confrontation. According to a Trafalgar Group poll published earlier this month, Mace trailed Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette in the South Carolina gubernatorial primary with 15.8 percent to Evette’s 19.9 percent.Attorney General Alan Wilson secured 12.4 percent, Representative Ralph Norman 9.3 percent and State Senator Josh Kimbrell 1.3 percent. More than 40 percent of voters remained undecided. TSA supervisor Johnny Lynch told Fits News he planned to file a report with his superiors about Mace’s “unacceptable behaviour.”

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The Hawk

Nov 1, 2025, 03:14 AM

South Korean President Urges APEC Members to Embrace AI-Driven Inclusive Growth

Gyeongju (South Korea), Nov 1 (IANS) South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Saturday urged the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies to embrace big changes driven by artificial intelligence (AI) as an opportunity to contribute to inclusive economic growth. Lee introduced South Korea's initiative, titled "AI-Based Society for All," during the Retreat Session of the APEC summit in the southeastern city of Gyeongju. "The Republic of Korea envisions a global AI society where people around the world can equally enjoy the benefits of technological progress, and will steadily implement policies to realise this core vision," Lee said in his remarks, referring to South Korea's official name. "We should turn the great transformation brought by AI into an opportunity." Lee said South Korea is pursuing an "AI transformation" at the national level and fostering an ecosystem for AI innovation. "We will expand infrastructure, such as large-scale data centers, and carry out regulatory reforms to create an environment where global companies can innovate freely," he said. He also called for collective efforts to address the challenges posed by a low birth rate and an aging population, proposing a joint framework for APEC members. "Demographic changes pose serious challenges that affect all areas of society, ranging from economic growth and the labor market to education and welfare, and cannot be resolved through partial or isolated measures," he said. To respond to major waves of AI and demographic change, he said South Korea is focusing on the cultural and creative industries as a new growth engine, Yonhap news agency reported. During the session, the leaders are set to adopt the "Gyeongju Declaration," which encapsulates the outcomes of this year's discussions, along with two documents on AI and demographic challenges, the office said. Lee will then formally hand over the APEC chairmanship to Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose country will host next year's summit. Following a group photo session, Lee is scheduled to hold a press conference in his capacity as APEC chair to brief on this year's main outcomes. --IANS int/jk/

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 03:02 AM

The Forbidden Garden of Leningrad: A True Story of Science, Sacrifice, and Survival

How political ideology and violence can lay waste to scientific achievement, and the resilience and resolve of scientists committed to their mission despite persecution, war and starvation, is the storySimon Parkintells inThe Forbidden Garden of Leningrad: A True Story of Science and Sacrifice in aCity Under Siege. When ace explorerbotanist Vavilov, who pledged his life “to preserve seeds for future use in agriculture, research and conservation” took charge of the Plant Institute in 1921 in what was then Petrograd, his predecessor had a collection of nearly 14,000 varieties of wheat, barley, oat, rye, other seeds and plants.Vavilov vowed to build a “treasury of all known crops”. Thereafter, the aim was to produce resilient supercops thatcould end famines.But at the Plant Institute, Vavilov and his team found storage tins of seeds open and empty. Specimens had been eaten by famished staff or looters – famines were frequent. So, their work began from scratch – travelling the world especially for rare seeds, tubers, roots and bulbs to bring to the seed bank to be sorted, catalogued and stored.By 1933, in the city renamed Leningrad, and Stalin in power, the botanists had collected 148,000 seeds and tubers from across the world. Trouble began when a former student argued Vavilov’s seed bank was a waste of resources, genetic engineering a pseudoscience. He promised Stalin quick-fix solutions for the food production crisis. It was in step with Stalin’s attacks on the intellectual elite. Parkin says, “Stalin approved of the idea that plants, like workers, could be transformed by an act of political will.” Picked up by secret police NKVD in 1940, Vavilov starved to death in the Gulag in 1943.His team had little idea of Vavilov’s whereabouts. They continued to work. When Germany invaded in 1941, Moscow removed trainloads of the city’s treasures – art, scientific archives, books, even zoo animals but ignored the seed bank. What were the botanists to do? So it was that when the 872-day siege of Leningrad began, botanists guarded samples – 120 tonnes of seeds, including 6,000 varieties of potato, stored in packets in dozens of rooms – from shelling, rodents and frost.Hitler had decided Leningrad “was to be starved into submission”. Food stocks were shelled, hunger became “the defining sensation in the city”. The siege, writes Parkin, “wiped out urbanite sentimentality towards animals. Researchers at the Physiological Institute ate Pavlov’s renowned dogs… police their service dogs.” Botanists stood guard, “the only people…faced with this ultimate and fundamental dilemma: to save a collection built to eradicate collective famine, or to use the collection to save themselves.” Between June 1, 1941 and Jan 1, 1942, 10 botanists died of starvation.A potato expert survivor would say later, that starvation meant it was “unbearably difficult to get up every morning…move your hands and feet”, but not eating the collection wasn’t hard at all. “It was impossible to eat your life’s work, the life’s work of your friends and colleagues.”Even after, when stories of war courage were told of Leningrad every day, how was Moscow to handle Vavilov, the brilliant botanist the state killed and the sacrifices of the Plant Institute botanists? It’s what science faces in times of authoritarian politics. By 1967, “a hundred million acres of Russian agricultural land had been planted with seeds derived from the Institute’s collection.” The botanists’ sacrifice ensured Russia’s future.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 02:49 AM

Shannon Watts' Post on JD Vance's Divorce Sparks Controversy and Debate

Erika Kirk was seen placing her hands gently on JD Vance’s head during the embrace. (Image Credit: X)Shannon Watts is one of those people whose public persona suddenly jumps into the spotlight even if you’ve never heard of them before and once you dig, you find a pretty full chapter and verse.Born in 1971 in Rochester, New York, she graduated from the University of Missouri. Early in her career she worked in communications for the Missouri House and for former governor Mel Carnahan.Watts' recent post on X about JD Vance has generated huge public interest and disagreements too. "Vance announces divorce, marries Charlie Kirk’s widow by the end of 2026," she posted. Her post has received over 9 million views.Watt's post is a reply to a post with two images of Vance and Charlie Kirk's widow and Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk. "The hand on his head though.... Embarrassing for JD's wife," the photos, where Kirk is seen cosying up with Vance, have been captioned.The divorce chatter kicked up right after. Vance made headlines at a TPUSA event, saying he “hoped” his wife, Usha, would eventually convert to Christianity. That comment definitely raised some eyebrows, especially since people are already speculating that Vance might run for president in 2028 as the next big MAGA hopeful.Some folks online think Usha’s Hindu faith could become a sticking point if he does step into the national spotlight.However, Vance cleared later that Usha had no plans to convert.Shannon Watts is a powerhouse activist and the founder of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, one of the biggest grassroots movements pushing for stronger gun safety laws in the U.S. She started the group in 2012, right after the tragic Sandy Hook school shooting, when she was just a mom furious and heartbroken about the lack of change.What began as a simple Facebook post quickly exploded into a national movement with chapters in every state.Before becoming a full-time activist, Shannon worked in corporate communications for big companies like Monsanto and General Electric, but she completely shifted gears to focus on activism and advocacy. She’s known for her fearless, straight-talking style and for holding politicians and the gun lobby accountable.Watts has also written a book, “Fight Like a Mother,” which dives into her journey from stay-at-home mom to national advocate. Beyond the movement, she’s a huge believer in the power of women, especially moms, to drive social and political change. Whether she’s rallying people online, speaking on national TV, or organizing protests, Shannon Watts has become one of the most recognizable and relentless voices in the fight for gun reform.

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Deccan Herald

Nov 1, 2025, 02:42 AM

US Air Traffic Controller Shortages Worsen Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

Washington: Nearly 50 per cent of the 30 busiest US airports are grappling with shortages of air traffic controllers, the Federal Aviation Administration said on Friday, leading to flight delays nationwide as a federal government shutdown hit its 31st day. The absence of controllers is by far the most widespread since the shutdown began, with one of the worst-hit regions being New York, where 80 per cent of air traffic controllers were out, the regulator said. It delayed flights at airports in Austin, Newark and Nashville as air traffic control staffing problems snarl flights. At least nine FAA facilities reported staffing problems earlier in the day, with the regulator saying it was likely to delay flights later at airports in the Houston and Dallas area. Flight delays were averaging 61 minutes at Nashville, 50 minutes at Austin and 101 minutes at Newark. By 12:30 a.m. ET, Aviation tracking site FlightAware showed, 2,200 US flights had been delayed and 300 canceled. US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he expected more flight delays in the next few days. "Coming into this weekend and then the week after, I think you are going to see even more disruptions in the airspace," Duffy said on Fox News' "America's Newsroom." On Thursday, air traffic control staffing shortages snarled flights at Orlando, Dallas/Fort Worth and Washington, D.C., when FlightAware data showed 7,300 flights delayed and 1,250 canceled across the United States. The shutdown has forced 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration officers to work without pay. Delta Air Lines, United, Southwest Airlines and American Airlines have all called on Congress to quickly pass a stop-gap funding bill to let the government reopen amid talks on disputes over healthcare policy. The shutdown has led to flight delays due to air traffic controller absences and affected thousands of flights, the Transportation Department said. The shutdown began on October 1 and continued since as a federal funding bill has stalled in Congress. Republican lawmakers want to pass a "clean" funding measure with no strings attached, while Democrats have demanded talks on extending health-care subsidies set to expire at year-end. Airlines have repeatedly urged an end to the shutdown, citing aviation safety risks. The shutdown has exacerbated existing staffing shortages, threatening to cause widespread disruptions similar to those that helped end a 35-day government shutdown in 2019. The FAA is about 3,500 air traffic controllers short of targeted staffing levels and many had been working mandatory overtime and six-day weeks even before the shutdown.

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Nov 1, 2025, 02:36 AM

UN Security Council Backs Morocco's Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara Amid Protests and Dismay

Morocco considers Western Sahara its territory, while the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, seeks to establish an independent state called the Sahrawi Republic. The UN Security Council voted Friday in favor of a resolution brought forward by the United States supportingMorocco's autonomy plan for Western Saharaas the "most feasible" solution forthe disputed territory. Thousands of people gathered in the streets of Moroccan cities to celebrate the vote. They carried flags and chanted patriotic slogans. However, neighboringAlgeria, which did not participate in the vote, has expressed dismay over the decision. The Western Sahara is a mineral-rich former Spanish colony that is largely controlled byMorocco. However, the vast territory has also been claimed for decades by the pro-independence Polisario Front, which is supported by Algeria. Morocco considers the area its own while the Polisario Front seeks to establish an independent state called the Sahrawi Republic. "We urge all parties to use the coming weeks to come to the table and engage in serious discussions," US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz told the council following the vote. "We believe regional peace is possible this year, and we will make every effort to facilitate progress." Russia, China and Pakistan abstained, while Algeria did not participate in the vote. The remaining 11 council members voted in favor of the resolution, which also renewed for one year the mandate of the UN peacekeeping force in Western Sahara, known as MINURSO. "The final decision on the future cannot, must not, belong to anyone other than the people under colonial domination," Algeria's UN Ambassador Amar Bendjama told the council after the vote. "This text ignores the proposals of the Polisario Front ... They are a party to the conflict, and their opinion must be heard." Meanwhile, Polisario Front representative Sidi Omar stated that the resolution does not imply any recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. The Polisario Front subsequently issued a statement saying that they would not participate in "any peace process or negotiations based on proposals that aim to legitimize the Moroccan military occupation." Edited by: Dmytro Hubenko

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The New Indian Express

Nov 1, 2025, 02:07 AM

Buddhist Relics Exhibition and Village Renaming in Uttar Pradesh

Add TNIE As A Trusted Source The sacred relics of Lord Buddha will be exhibited at Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, Sarnath, from November 3 to 5. The event coincides with the 94th anniversary of the Vihar, located at the site where the Buddha gave his first sermon, the Dharmachakra Pravartana. The ceremony will be organised by Maha Bodhi Society of India, Sarnath Centre, in collaboration with the Venerable Vietnamese Sangha and devotees from Hanoi as their support has made the exposition possible. The relics kept beneath the golden Buddha statue inside the shrine will be displayed, drawing monks, devotees, and pilgrims. Renaming spree now reaches village level After renaming districts, railway stations and cities, the UP government is now renaming villages. CM Yogi Adityanath’s decision to rechristen Mustafabad village in Lakhimpur Kheri district as ‘Kabir Dham’ has brought the archlights back on BJP’s move of blending religio-cultural identity with electoral calculus. In 2024, BJP’s two-term MP and former Union minister Ajay Mishra Teni lost the Kheri Lok Sabha seat to SP. Mustafabad village with a population of around 3,000 people is home to a holy site dedicated to 15th-century Sufi ideologue Kabir Das.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 02:04 AM

D66 Wins Dutch Election: Centrist Party Seeks Coalition Amid Uncertainty

Centrist D66 clinch close win in Netherlands election, Rob Jetten to be youngest Dutch PMCentrist D66 clinch close win in Netherlands election, Rob Jetten to be youngest Dutch PM12AMSTERDAM: The centrist D66 party has won the closely fought Dutch general election, according to the projections, which indicated that Geert Wilders' Freedom Party (PVV) are not able to bridge the narrow vote gap, France 24 reported, citing local news agency ANP.The result positions D66 leader Rob Jetten to become the youngest Prime Minister of the European Union's fifth-largest economy, though extended coalition negotiations are expected before a new government takes shape.As reported by France 24, ANP's projections show Jetten holding a slim lead of 15,155 votes over Wilders, with just one constituency and overseas postal ballots yet to be counted. The postal votes, currently being tallied in The Hague, are not expected to be fully announced until Monday evening.Historically, overseas voters have tended to support centrist and left-leaning parties. In the previous 2023 election, D66 led PVV by about 3,000 postal votes.On Tuesday, senior lawmakers will meet in parliament to appoint a "scout" -- a negotiator responsible for exploring potential coalition alignments. The leader of the largest party traditionally nominates the scout and spearheads the process of coalition building, which could extend over several months, France 24 reported.Caretaker Prime Minister Dick Schoof will remain in office until a new government is formed. "I expect I will still be PM at Christmas," Schoof remarked earlier on Friday.All major parties have ruled out cooperation with Wilders, who previously withdrew his PVV from the last coalition during a dispute over immigration policy. If confirmed as the election winner, Jetten will need to assemble a coalition commanding at least 76 seats in the 150-member parliament.His most likely coalition path points toward a "grand alliance" with the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) holding 18 seats, the liberal People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) with 22, and the left-wing Green/Labour bloc with 20. D66 currently holds 26 seats.However, uncertainty remains over whether VVD and Green/Labour can cooperate. VVD leader Dilan Yesilgoz had stated before the election that working with Green/Labour "would not work," expressing preference for a centre-right partnership.The Green/Labour bloc will elect a new leader on Monday following the resignation of former EU vice-president Frans Timmermans, a move that could potentially ease coalition talks, France 24 reported.While Wilders' support has weakened, other far-right parties saw gains. The nationalist Forum for Democracy (FvD), which advocates leaving the EU's Schengen free-movement system, more than doubled its representation to seven seats from three. However, Wilders has dismissed the idea of cooperating with FvD.

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Financial Express

Nov 1, 2025, 01:59 AM

White House Restricts Journalist Access to West Wing Offices

A newWhite Houserule issued Friday restricts the ability of credentialed journalists to freely access the offices of press secretary Karoline Leavitt and other top communications officials in the West Wing, near the Oval Office. The new memorandum from the National Security Council bans journalists from accessing Room 140, also known as “Upper Press,” without a prior appointment, citing the need to protect potentially sensitive material. It said the change would take effect immediately. The White House move follows restrictions put in place earlier this month for reporters at the Department of Defense, a move that prompted dozens of journalists to vacate their offices in thePentagonand return their credentials. The National Security Council said the change was made to protect sensitive material now being routinely handled by White House communications officials as a result of changes to the council. “In order to protect such material, and maintain coordination between National Security Council Staff and White House Communications Staff, members of the press are no longer permitted to access Room 140 without prior approval in the form of an appointment with an authorized White House Staff Member,” the memo said. Previously, credentialed White House journalists could access Room 140, which is a short hallway from the Oval Office, on short notice to speak with Leavitt, her deputy Steven Cheung and other senior officials. “Some reporters have been caught secretly recording video and audio of our offices, along with pictures of sensitive info, without permission,” Cheung wrote in a post on X, adding that some reporters wandered into restricted areas, or eavesdropped on private, closed-door meetings. “Cabinet Secretaries routinely come into our office for private meetings, only to be ambushed by reporters waiting outside our doors,” Cheung wrote. Journalists can still access another area where lower-level White House spokespeople have desks, the council memo said. The White House Correspondents’ Association, which represents journalists covering the White House, said the new restrictions would hinder reporters’ ability to question officials, ensure transparency and hold government accountable. “The White House Correspondents’ Association unequivocally opposes any effort to limit journalists from areas within the communications operations of the White House that have long been open for newsgathering, including the press secretary’s office,” said Weijia Jiang, current president of the group. The administration of former President Bill Clinton announced a similar step in 1993, but later rescinded the measures after a storm of criticism. The Trump administration months ago removed Reuters, the Associated Press and Bloomberg News from the permanent “pool” of reporters covering the president, although it allows those outlets to participate on a sporadic basis. Friday’s announcement comes weeks after the crackdown on press access by the Defense Department, which now requires news outlets to sign a new policy or lose access to press credentials and Pentagon workspaces. At least 30 news organizations, including Reuters, declined to agree to the Pentagon restrictions, citing a threat to press freedoms and their ability to conduct independent newsgathering. The Pentagon policy requires journalists to acknowledge new rules on press access, including that they could be branded security risks and have their Pentagon press badges revoked if they ask department employees to disclose classified and some types of unclassified information.

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Economic Times

Nov 1, 2025, 01:59 AM

Trump Rejects Resuming Trade Talks with Canada Amid Dispute Over Anti-Tariff Ad

SynopsisUS President Donald Trump has flatly rejected resuming trade talks with Canada. This comes after a dispute over an anti-tariff advertisement. Trump stated that while he likes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Canada's actions were wrong. Discussions will not resume, despite Carney's apology for the commercial. The breakdown of talks marks a significant shift in relations between the two allies.

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Economic Times

Nov 1, 2025, 01:47 AM

Trump Designates Nigeria 'Country of Particular Concern' Over Religious Freedom

SynopsisPresident Trump has designated Nigeria a country of particular concern regarding religious freedom. This move opens the door for potential sanctions against the West African nation. The Nigerian government rejects these claims. Analysts suggest many victims of armed groups are Muslims. Trump vows to protect Christians globally. This designation follows previous actions and could impact US-Nigeria relations.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 01:36 AM

FBI Foils Potential ISIS-Inspired Attack in Michigan Ahead of Halloween

A potential ISIS-inspired attack in Michigan was foiled just hours before Halloween, after FBI arrested multiple suspects allegedly plotting a “pumpkin day” assault, reports CNN.The operation was carried out early Friday, preventing what director Kash Patel described as a “violent attack” planned for the holiday weekend.Trump Hails Kash Patel's FBI For Foiling Michigan ‘Terrorist Attack’ | ‘CATCHING THEM BEFORE’FBI swoops in after 'pumpkin day' clueThe plan was uncovered after months of online surveillance of a chatroom where several men allegedly discussed carrying out an ISIS-inspired attack in US. According to officials, an undercover FBI operative had been inserted into the group during the early stages of planning.The suspects had recently gone to a shooting range armed with AK-47s and other weapons, practising tactical reloads and firing dozens of rounds. That was when investigators intercepted a spooky reference to “pumpkin day” — believed to be a coded term for Halloween. This led the FBI to act immediately.“This morning the FBI thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend,” FBI Director Kash Patel said on X.“Thanks to the men and women of FBI and law enforcement everywhere standing guard 24/7 and crushing our mission to defend the homeland.”Possible connection to ISISRaids were conducted in the Detroit suburbs, where heavily armed FBI and Michigan State Police teams stormed at least three homes. Investigators seized several legally owned firearms, computers and mobile devices as part of their operation.“This all relates to an investigation that started months ago into people who were communicating online with each other here in the United States … but also talking to people overseas, possibly connected to ISIS,” according to CNN’s chief law enforcement analyst John Miller, citing briefings from officials.At least two suspects have been arrested, while three others are being questioned. Among them, one was identified as a 16-year-old juvenile. The group had allegedly debated the timing of their attack, with some members pushing to strike on Halloween, while others argued they needed more time to prepare.Political reactionGovernor Gretchen Whitmer said she had been briefed on the arrests and thanked authorities for their swift action.“This morning, I was briefed by Director Patel on the thwarted potential terrorist attack in our state,” Whitmer posted on X. “As details continue to develop, I am grateful for the swift action of the FBI and MSP protecting Michiganders.”The FBI’s Detroit field office confirmed operations in Dearborn and Inkster, saying, “There is no current threat to public safety.” The Dearborn Police Department also reassured residents that there was “no threat to the community.”Investigators are now probing any links between the arrested individuals and 19-year-old former Michigan Army National Guardsman Ammar Said, who was detained in May for plotting an ISIS-inspired attack on a US Army facility in Warren, Michigan.Officials described the Michigan cell as “home-grown radicals” with possible overseas connections, and credited close surveillance and quick coordination for preventing what could have been a Halloween tragedy.

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Deccan Herald

Nov 1, 2025, 01:25 AM

White House Restricts Journalist Access to West Wing Offices

Washington: A new White House rule issued Friday restricts the ability of credentialed journalists to freely access the offices of press secretary Karoline Leavitt and other top communications officials in the West Wing, near the Oval Office. The new memorandum from the National Security Council bans journalists from accessing Room 140, also known as "Upper Press," without a prior appointment, citing the need to protect potentially sensitive material. It said the change would take effect immediately. The White House move follows restrictions put in place earlier this month for reporters at the Department of Defense, a move that prompted dozens of journalists to vacate their offices in the Pentagon and return their credentials. The National Security Council said the change was made to protect sensitive material now being routinely handled by White House communications officials as a result of changes to the council. "In order to protect such material, and maintain coordination between National Security Council Staff and White House Communications Staff, members of the press are no longer permitted to access Room 140 without prior approval in the form of an appointment with an authorized White House Staff Member," the memo said. Previously, credentialed White House journalists could access Room 140, which is a short hallway from the Oval Office, on short notice to speak with Leavitt, her deputy Steven Cheung and other senior officials. "Some reporters have been caught secretly recording video and audio of our offices, along with pictures of sensitive info, without permission," Cheung wrote in a post on X, adding that some reporters wandered into restricted areas, or eavesdropped on private, closed-door meetings. "Cabinet Secretaries routinely come into our office for private meetings, only to be ambushed by reporters waiting outside our doors," Cheung wrote. Journalists can still access another area where lower-level White House spokespeople have desks, the council memo said. The White House Correspondents’ Association, which represents journalists covering the White House, said the new restrictions would hinder reporters' ability to question officials, ensure transparency and hold government accountable. "The White House Correspondents' Association unequivocally opposes any effort to limit journalists from areas within the communications operations of the White House that have long been open for newsgathering, including the press secretary’s office," said Weijia Jiang, current president of the group. The administration of former President Bill Clinton announced a similar step in 1993, but later rescinded the measures after a storm of criticism. The Trump administration months ago removed Reuters, the Associated Press and Bloomberg News from the permanent "pool" of reporters covering the president, although it allows those outlets to participate on a sporadic basis. Friday's announcement comes weeks after the crackdown on press access by the Defense Department, which now requires news outlets to sign a new policy or lose access to press credentials and Pentagon workspaces. At least 30 news organizations, including Reuters, declined to agree to the Pentagon restrictions, citing a threat to press freedoms and their ability to conduct independent newsgathering. The Pentagon policy requires journalists to acknowledge new rules on press access, including that they could be branded security risks and have their Pentagon press badges revoked if they ask department employees to disclose classified and some types of unclassified information.

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Economic Times

Nov 1, 2025, 01:18 AM

Trump Urges SNAP Recipients to Pressure Senate Democrats to Reopen Government

SynopsisPresident Donald Trump stated government lawyers believe his administration lacks legal authority to fund SNAP benefits during the government shutdown. Trump posted Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's office number, urging SNAP recipients to contact Senate Democrats about reopening the government and restoring food assistance funding

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Financial Express

Nov 1, 2025, 01:17 AM

Trump Gives Exclusive Interview to CBS After Settling Lawsuit Over '60 Minutes' Editing

CBS News said that U.S. PresidentDonald Trumpsat down with CBS anchor Norah O’Donnell for an exclusive interview for “60 Minutes” on Friday afternoon, the first with the network after his lawsuit against it. O’Donnell interviewed Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, a spokesperson for the network said. It will be aired on Sunday. Semafor had earlier reported on the interview. In July, CBS-parentParamount Skydance, then Paramount, agreed to pay $16 million to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump over his claim that CBS deceptively edited a “60 Minutes” interview with his Democratic presidential opponent Kamala Harris last year. CBS also appointed a new ombudsman who had previously run the Hudson Institute, a conservative think-tank. Paramount Skydance named Bari Weiss editor-in-chief of CBS News earlier this month, as part of a deal to acquire the Free Press, the center-right online news outlet she founded. David Ellison, the son of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, took over the CBS network and other Paramount properties earlier this year when his company Skydance Media merged with Paramount Global in an $8.4 billion deal.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 01:12 AM

RJD Complains to EC Over Bihar Govt's Cash Transfers During Election Period

NEW DELHI: RJD's Rajya Sabha MP and national spokesperson Manoj Kumar Jha has written to EC lodging a complaint about violation of the model code of conduct by Bihar govt through direct cash transfer of Rs 10,000 to beneficiaries of Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana.Registering strong protest over the move, Jha, in his complaint addressed to EC, said that cash transfers under the scheme were made by state government on October 17, 24 and 31.RJD Leader Shahnawaz Alam On Fight Against Brother Sarfaraz In Jokihat | Battle For BiharHe also stated that the next proposed date of disbursement is November 7, which will be three days before the second phase of polling in Bihar. He said the action constitutes "a clear and deliberate" breach of the model code provisions that came into effect on October 6, following announcement of the Bihar assembly election schedule.Jha asked EC to take "immediate and strong action" not only to remedy this specific violation but also to "send a clear message that the constitutional mandate for free and fair elections will be upheld at all costs". The RJD functionary also urged the poll panel to give a written acknowledgement of the complaint and "timely information" on action taken.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 01:11 AM

JD Vance's Hope for Wife's Conversion Sparks Controversy Over Religious Freedom

JD Vance was at the center of a major controversy after he said he hopes that his Hindu wife would one day convert to Christianity.AsVice President JD Vanceaddressed the row over his statement about his wife Usha Vance's religion and made it clear that it was her faith that helped him reconnect with his own religion, the Hindu American Foundation asked the VP why he never thought of engaging with Hinduism as well.The organization said that, given the present anti-Hindu sentiment online, his public acknowledgement of the positive impact of Hinduism on him would be more reasonable.Accused of throwing his wife's religion under the bus, JD Vance said it's disgusting to interpret his statement in this way. JD Vance said Usha Vance is not a Christian and has no plans to convert but like many people in an interfaith marriage or an interfaith relationship, he hopes that she may one day see things as he does."Regardless, I'll continue to love and support her and talk to her about faith and life and everything else, because she's my wife," Vance said, adding that Usha is the most amazing blessing in his life and she encouraged him to re-engage with his faith.Indian-origin Woman Confronts JD Vance On Wife Usha’s Faith And Trump’s Immigration CrackdownIn 2019, JD Vance was baptized, years after his marriage to Usha Vance. Before that, he was an agnostic, as he called himself. He said Usha was also an agnostic when they first met.Vance defended his hope to see his wife converted and called it a Christian belief. "Yes, Christians have beliefs. And yes, those beliefs have many consequences, one of which is that we want to share them with other people. That is a completely normal thing, and anyone who's telling you otherwise has an agenda," Vance said.But the religion controversy did not end with Vance's statement. The Hindu American Foundation expected him to engage with Hinduism."If you did you may well learn that Hinduism doesn’t share the need to wish your spouse comes around to see things as you do in terms of religion. Hinduism is inherently inclusive and pluralistic in this way. We do not seek to convert anyone. We embrace the idea that there are multiple ways of conceiving of the Divine. Yet, there remains a compulsion, from some religious communities, to convert us to another way of thinking, that goes beyond mere dialog and sharing of differing opinions," the foundation said.HAF countered the belief that the path of salvation is only through Christ and asked if Hindus in America do not have religious freedom. "Some of the most vocal voices in your base seem to not actually believe religious freedom — one of the core concepts this nation was founded upon, as you well know — should extend to Hindus," it said.

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Economic Times

Nov 1, 2025, 01:11 AM

US Government Shutdown Enters 31st Day Amid Filibuster Debate

SynopsisPresident Donald Trump has urged the Senate to abolish the filibuster to end the ongoing government shutdown. However, Republican leaders have firmly rejected this proposal, stating their commitment to the legislative filibuster. The shutdown, now in its 31st day, continues with no clear resolution in sight as both parties remain at an impasse over healthcare subsidies and government funding.

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Financial Express

Nov 1, 2025, 01:04 AM

US Judge Blocks Trump's Executive Order Requiring Voter ID

A federal judge on Friday permanently blocked part of an executive order from Republican U.S. PresidentDonald Trump, ruling that the president cannot require voters to show passports or similar documents as proof ofcitizenshipbefore voting. Several lawsuits have challenged the president’s March 25 executive order, a sweeping order aimed at overhauling federal elections, and courts had already temporarily blocked it from going into effect. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly in Washington, D.C., was the first to reach a final ruling against the executive order. Kollar-Kotelly permanently blocked the part of the executive order that would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote. The judge had previously declined to block the part of the executive order that would bar states from counting mail-in ballots received after Election Day. The ruling came in response to lawsuits by groups including the Democratic National Committee, the League of United Latin American Citizens and the League of Women Voters Education Fund. The American Civil Liberties Union, which represents the League of Women Voters in the case, said on Friday that Americans without up-to-date passports should not be required to purchase new documents in order to exercise their rights. “While we celebrate this victory, we remain vigilant and will keep fighting to ensure every eligible voter can make their voice heard without interference or intimidation,” ACLU’s Sophia Lin Lakin said. “No president can sidestep the Constitution to make it harder to vote.” TheWhite Housedid not immediately respond to a request for comment. The executive order had called on a non-partisan federal election body to modify a standardized national voter registration form to require a document such as a passport proving citizenship. Kollar-Kotelly found that part of the order was illegal because the U.S. Constitution gives states, not the president, the power to oversee elections. Trump has long questioned the U.S. electoral system and continues to falsely claim that his 2020 loss to Democratic President Joe Biden was the result of widespread fraud. Trump and his Republican allies also have made baseless claims about widespread voting by non-citizens, which is illegal and rarely occurs.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 12:56 AM

Congress Demands Ban on RSS Citing Sardar Patel's 1948 Decision, BJP Hits Back

RSS volunteers (left); Mallikarjun Kharge (right)NEW DELHI: AsCongresspresident MallikarjunKhargecalled for a ban onRSSciting the decision of the then home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel,BJPhit back recalling comments of both Patel andMahatma Gandhipraising RSS and accusing Kharge of using the language of fundamentalist Muslim organisations like PFI.Kharge said RSS should be proscribed because it is endangering national unity, underlining Patel banning the right-wing organisation in 1948 after its functionaries "celebrated and distributed sweets" in the wake of the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. He accused PM Narendra Modi of disrespecting the "iron man" by removing in 2024 the ban on govt employees from joining RSS, and by removing chapters on Gandhi, Godse, RSS and 2002 Gujarat riots from three NCERT books.Congress Chief Kharge Demands Ban On RSS Citing Sardar Patel's 1948 Letter, BJP Hits BackHe said, "My personal view is that RSS should be banned. If Modi & Amit Shah eulogise the ills that Patel put out in public (before banning RSS), then it should be banned. The problems of law & order are because of RSS & BJP."BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi said Patel had described RSS as an organisation of patriots days before Gandhi's assassination in Jan 1948 & echoed a similar view in a letter to its then chief M S Golwalkar in Nov 1948."Kharge said Patel wrote to Golwalkar and Shyama Prasad Mukherjee about the decision to ban RSS. "RSS speeches are full of communal poison... which led to Gandhi's killing. RSS people rejoiced and distributed sweets... We have no other option but to ban RSS," he said, adding, "These are Patel's words. But those who killed Gandhi and think ill of Gandhi, they are telling us that Congress does not remember Patel. The two Gujarat netas (Modi and Shah) say this.They must tell what they did for the country."Another BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said the Kapur Commission, which had probed the conspiracy behind Gandhi's killing, had absolved RSS and that the Supreme Court's verdict on similar lines is also in public domain. He said several Congress leaders, including Indira Gandhi, have spoken positively of RSS and noted that Pranab Mukherjee was also full of praise for it after he as the then President of India visited its headquarters.

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Times of India

Nov 1, 2025, 12:50 AM

Drone Scares Hit Berlin Airport Amid Wider European Incidents

Flights were suspended for almost two hours at Berlin Brandenburg Airport on Friday after sightings of unidentified drones, the latest in a series of similar scares across Europe, an airport spokesman told AFP.Take-offs and landings were suspended between 8:08 pm (1908 GMT) and 9:58 pm and a "whole series of flights" were diverted to other German cities during the closure, the spokesman said.Berlin’s ban on night flights was also relaxed to mitigate the impact on flight operations, he added.‘19 Flights Cancelled, 3000 affected’: Drone Scare At Munich Airport Amid Russia Tensions“We assume that the danger has been averted for the time being,” the spokesman said.Police in Brandenburg state confirmed they had received a report of a drone sighting and said a patrol car and a helicopter had been deployed.The patrol car had spotted a drone but its pilot had not been identified, a spokesman said.The drone incursions over Germany are more serious, with swarms of unknown drones sighted over critical infrastructure as well as military facilities. German leaders had repeatedly raised the alarm about a growing drone threat after a series of sightings of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at airports as well as sensitive military sites this year.Airports in Denmark, Norway and Poland had also recently suspended flights due to unidentified drones, while Romania and Estonia had pointed the finger at Russia, which had brushed off the allegations. Germany – a major NATO backer of Ukraine in its fight against Russia – had similarly blamed Moscow.Multiple UAV sightings had been reported in recent months over military bases, industrial sites and other critical infrastructure in Germany.In early October, drones spotted over the southern city of Munich twice shut down the city’s airport, grounding thousands of passengers after their flights were cancelled or re-routed.Interior minister Alexander Dobrindt had called for Germany to “find new responses to this hybrid threat” – including greater capabilities to detect, assess and potentially shoot down drones.

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