As India commemorates the 61st anniversary of the passing of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, he is remembered as a revered figure and a trailblazer in the fight against social injustice. After overcoming numerous barriers, Ambedkar rose to become the first law minister of independent India and was instrumental in crafting the country's now-famous constitution. His legacy continues to inspire millions as the driving force behind the Dalit Buddhist movement and his contributions to Indian society.
After a two-year stint as the Chief Justice of India, Dr. Justice Chandrachud leaves behind a mixed legacy in the face of daunting challenges. Overcoming obstacles posed by the ruling government's majoritarian ideology, he made notable strides in protecting constitutional values, especially in cases regarding women's rights, adultery, and same-sex relations. However, his tenure has also been marred by failures in mitigating a growing mistrust in the judiciary and addressing the imbalance of power between the executive and independent institutions. With an unparalleled erudition in law and a deep understanding of history and society, Chandrachud's judgments were marked by a unique style, making them a delightful read.
The US-based organisation, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has organised a car rally in Auckland to demand a separate state for Sikhs within India. This has raised concerns for New Zealand-India relations and prompted the government to respond, stating that they support peaceful and lawful initiatives. The SFJ, which has been banned by India for its alleged terrorist links, plans to hold a non-official and non-binding "referendum" in Auckland on 17 November to advocate for the creation of an independent homeland for Sikhs in India.
Savitri Jindal, the richest woman in India according to Forbes, has announced her support for the Bharatiya Janata Party in the Haryana assembly elections. This comes as a major boost for the BJP, who also gained two Independent MLA's in their favor. Jindal, who represents Hisar, had previously been a part of the Congress government but left to join the BJP with her son Naveen. With her support, the BJP now has a majority in the state assembly and can continue their reign in Haryana.
In a surprising turn of events, India's richest woman Savitri Jindal and two other Independent MLAs have agreed to support BJP in forming the government in Haryana after the party won the elections with a huge majority. Jindal, who won from Hisar, along with Devender Kadyan and Rajesh Joon, agreed to support BJP after meeting with party leaders. This has helped BJP reach a tally of 51 seats and secure a hat-trick of wins in the state, defeating anti-incumbency and Congress' comeback attempt. This decision has also brought Jindal back into the political spotlight, with her being listed as the richest woman in India by Forbes with a net worth of USD 29.1 billion.
Savitri Jindal, the head of the Jindal Group, has won the Hisar Assembly seat for the third time as an independent candidate, defeating her BJP and Congress rivals. Her immense personal wealth, estimated at Rs 3.65 lakh crore, makes her not only the richest woman in India but also the fifth-richest individual in the country. Her leadership of the Jindal Group has earned her international recognition and she is now thanking the people of Hisar for their continued support.
The STAIRS Foundation, recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, launched its 'One Maharashtra One Goal' programme with the aim of promoting grassroots sports and developing young athletes in the state. This initiative, a part of the larger 'One India One Goal' movement, is headed by Independent MLC Satyajeet Tambe, who envisions Maharashtra as the top performing Olympic and sports state in India in the coming decade. With district-level matches beginning in September 2024 and brand ambassadors soon to be announced, this programme strives to create a supportive environment for inclusive participation and excellence in sports.
On August 29th, 2024, India will be celebrating National Sports Day to honour the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, one of the greatest field hockey players in the history of the game. Despite India not being an independent nation during most of his playing years, he managed to win three Olympic gold medals in the 1928, 1932, and 1936 games. While he lived most of his life in obscurity, his legacy lives on as the government of India uses this day to promote sports and fitness, with various schemes and programs being launched. This day also serves as a reminder to celebrate the achievements of Indian athletes and to strive for excellence in the sporting sphere.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Honorary Secretary Jay Shah has been unanimously elected as the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council, for a two-year term starting in 2024. As the youngest person to hold this prestigious position, Shah has promised to lead the global governing body of cricket with strong and transparent leadership, steering the sport into a brighter future. His appointment marks a new era for the ICC, with the BCCI's dominance in world cricket now reflected in the governing body's top brass.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the election of Mr. Jay Shah as the Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). This prestigious position, which reflects the unanimous support and confidence of the ICC's Member Boards, was won by Mr. Shah unopposed. It is a great honor for the BCCI to have one of their own leading the world of cricket.