As the nation observes Shaheed Diwas on March 23, we honor the supreme sacrifice of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, who were executed by the British in 1931. Their bravery and patriotism continue to inspire generations and their sacrifices played a significant role in India's fight for independence. Let us pay tribute to these heroes on Shaheed Diwas and remember their valiant efforts towards our freedom.
In response to a written query, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha that the government's Fact Check Unit (FCU) identified 1,575 fake news stories from 2022 to March 19 this year. The FCU, set up in 2019, also received over 25,000 queries and identified 338 fake news stories in 2022. The report highlights the efforts of the government in countering the spread of misinformation.
On Friday, tensions rose in the eastern part of Kathmandu as pro-monarchy protesters clashed with security personnel, leaving two people dead. The curfew imposed in the area has been lifted on Saturday as calm returns to the city. At least 105 people have been arrested for their involvement in the violent demonstration, as protesters demand the reinstatement of the monarchy and a Hindu kingdom. Durga Prasai, the leader of the agitation and the main culprit behind the violence, is currently at large.
A group of unidentified individuals vandalized an idol of Lord Shani Dev in the Mirhachi area of Uttar Pradesh's Etah district, causing tension among locals. This was the second such incident to occur within a week, with the idol's head, hands, and mace being damaged. The village head has filed a complaint and police officials are investigating the matter. Authorities have assured locals that measures have been taken to maintain peace in the village.
In light of the state government's concern over the spread of false or misleading news related to its functioning, the Maharashtra government has issued guidelines for its departments to respond promptly to such reports. The move comes after the establishment of a media monitoring centre to keep track of news coverage. The directive aims to improve the government's image and address citizen concerns more efficiently, while opposition parties have criticized the decision to merge municipal corporations in Jaipur.
A three-member committee in Ahmedabad has started the process of acquiring 650 acres of land for the development of Sardar Patel Sports Enclave and Olympic Village. The plan includes relocation of three ashrams, including one belonging to rape convict Asaram Bapu. The proposal has caused controversy, with opposition parties demanding the withdrawal of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and calling for the implementation of the Sachar Committee's recommendations to improve the socio-economic conditions of Muslims in India.
At the first general council meeting of Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), actor and party leader Vijay launched a scathing attack against the Centre and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government in Tamil Nadu. Vijay accused the BJP-led Centre of trying to reduce the state's power, and warned PM Narendra Modi to "handle Tamil Nadu carefully". He also criticized the DMK for creating obstacles for TVK's functioning and declared that the upcoming assembly polls in 2026 will be a two-party fight between TVK and DMK. The party passed several resolutions, including urging the Centre to withdraw the controversial Waqf Bill and finding lasting solutions for challenges faced by fishermen.
In a strong opposition to the proposed Waqf bill, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board has urged all Muslims in the country to wear black armbands during Friday prayers as a sign of peaceful protest. This appeal comes ahead of the highly anticipated 2025 Delhi Assembly Elections and the Union Budget announcement, showing the board's determination to make their voices heard. With this move, the community hopes to bring attention to their concerns and urge the government to reconsider their decision.
Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, has written a letter to the Governor requesting the deployment of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in Mothabari, after a large-scale attack on Hindus by miscreants. Adhikari has accused the state government and ruling party of appeasement politics and claimed that the police have failed to contain the violence. He vows to take legal action against the perpetrators and protect the Hindu community.
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee faced tumultuous disruptions during her speech at Oxford University as students questioned her on the RG Kar rape case, Tata's pullout from Bengal, and her stance on Hindus. Banerjee defended herself, pointing out that Tata has already started a project in Kharagpur while also urging the students to not make the event a political platform. She also addressed the Jadavpur University incident and advised the protesters to focus on strengthening their party in Bengal. The Chief Minister reminded them to not disrespect their country by insulting her and her role as a representative.
In a recent interview, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about the Godhra train burning incident that occurred in 2002, which left 59 people dead. He described it as a tragedy of unimaginable magnitude and equated it to the global outcry after 9/11. He also hinted that the riots in Gujarat during that time were linked to the tense and volatile situation after the Godhra incident. PM Modi shared his memories of that day, saying they were in the Assembly for a budget session when the tragic news came in.