Month: April 2026

US President Donald Trump has amplified a provocative critique of birthright citizenship by sharing a video of prominent conservative author and radio host Michael Savage, who claimed the current legal system allows immigrants to exploit American laws by arriving in the “ninth month of their pregnancy”.

In the footage, Savage argued that such practices create a loophole where “a baby here becomes an instant citizen, and then they bring the entire family in from China or India or some other hellhole on the planet.”

The footage, originally aired on the Newsmax series The Savage Nation, was highlighted by the “Commentary Donald J. Trump Posts From Truth Social” account, which serves as a platform dedicated to reposting the President’s social media activity.

In the clip, Savage expressed deep frustration with the judicial process, stating, “Today’s brief, abbreviated discussion will be about the arguments that I just listened to before the Supreme Court about birthright citizenship. I was somewhat incensed by listening to the arguments because all I heard was legalese being bandied back and forth.”

Focusing his criticism on the legal representation involved, Savage remarked that “the person bringing the arguments in favour of flooding America with illegal aliens to change the demographics forever was a Chinese American who looks to me like the classic ACLU attorney. Very smart, very evil, and very devious.”

Extending his attack to the American Civil Liberties Union, he asserted, “The ACLU is the head of the snake. They have been forever, and there they were again trying to turn America into a cesspool.”

Savage argued that the matter transcends technicalities, claiming that “these arguments should not be conducted in the abstract of a courtroom. This is really not about law. This is about public opinion.”

While acknowledging the difficulty of reform, he noted, “I could start arguing about the Constitution itself, and I’ll run into a stone wall with you. We can’t modify the Constitution because it’s written in stone, and if we do, they’ll take away our First and Second amendment, which is what they would do.”

The author further highlighted what he views as the obsolescence of current legal interpretations, pointing out that “the Constitution was written before air travel, needless to say, before television, before the internet, before radio.”

Lamenting the state of national identity, Savage claimed that “English is not spoken here anymore” and alleged a lack of loyalty among modern immigrants.

Drawing a contrast with the past, he remarked, “No, they’re not like the European Americans of today and their ancestors. The Irish integrated, the Italians integrated, the Polish integrated, the Lithuanians, the Romanians, the Russians. They all integrated and became Americans in the melting pot.”

Savage stated that the traditional concept of assimilation has failed, noting, “The idea of the melting pot is long over. It is now just a cash in pot. We’ve gone from the melting pot to the chamber pot.”

He described the reliance on judicial oversight as “ludicrous,” instead advocating for a direct democratic approach. “I put up a poll on my social channels where I said, birthright citizenship should be subjected to a national vote. Not put in the hands of lawyers,” he added. (ANI)

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi on Thursday exercised her franchise at a polling station in St. Ebba’s Higher Secondary School in Chennai amid the ongoing polling for Tamil Nadu assembly elections.

The Thoothukkudi MP was accompanied by her mother.

Addressing reporters here, Kanimozhi expressed confidence that the DMK will continue its reign in Tamil Nadu, after securing a “remarkable victory” in the ongoing assembly elections.

“The people will definitely take a clear decision. After meeting the people continuously, I firmly believe that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) rule will continue, and the Chief Minister’s governance will persist. I don’t want to get into specific numbers, but the DMK alliance will certainly achieve a remarkable victory. Once all the votes are counted, the truth will be evident to everyone. History will repeat itself. I believe voter turnout will definitely increase, and people across Tamil Nadu are enthusiastic about voting, wanting the DMK rule to continue,” she said.

“Our performance over five years, good governance, and schemes reaching the people have all contributed. The DMK alliance partners are fighters for the state’s rights, language, and culture, and they work to ensure a better future for the next generation. That is the narrative of this election,” she added.

The DMK MP further reflected on the performance of the DMK government in Tamil Nadu, assuring a better future for the state. She criticised the opposition parties and said that any allegations made on a voting day are “just politics.”

“Regarding other parties, they will continue to raise issues, but any government will ensure there are enough facilities for voters. The DMK is very confident that people will vote them back to power. Why would any government indulge in creating problems? If they want to make false accusations repeatedly, especially on a voting day, that’s just politics,” Kanimozhi said.

She also motivated the electorate to exercise their franchise, stating, “Come and vote. Think for a moment about what is good for the country, who will protect our rights, our language, and the future of our children, and then cast your vote.”

Earlier this monrning, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said that Tamil Nadu will win as he exercised his right to vote at the polling station in Chennai, urging people to do the same.

“Just like I exercised my right, everyone must fulfil their democratic duty, it is important…Tamil Nadu will win,” he said.

Along with CM Stalin, his wife Durga Stalin, Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin and other family members cast a vote at a polling station in Chennai.

Udhayanidhi Stalin’s wife Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi said, “Just come out and vote. I have been doing this for the last 25 years. My son is voting for the first time.”

Meanwhile, the voter turnout in Tamil Nadu was recorded at 17.69 per cent at 9 am on Thursday. Tiruppur district recorded the highest turnout with 20.38% voting, while Chennai district registered a turnout of 16.51%, and Erode recorded 19.55% turnout.

Polling for the Assembly elections began in Tamil Nadu and 152 constituencies in West Bengal amid tight security on Thursday. The voting will conclude at 6:00 pm today. The counting of votes will take place on May 4.

The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which includes the Congress, DMDK and VCK, and the National Democratic Alliance led by AIADMK with BJP and PMK as allies.

With the DMK banking on its Dravidian 2.0 model, the AIADMK-led NDA is fighting for a comeback. Actor-turned-politician Vijay is also set to make his electoral debut with his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which could turn the contest into a three-way fight. (ANI)

Police in Punjab have formally urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) to block public access to an upcoming documentary series titled ‘Lawrence of Punjab’, scheduled for an April 27 release on OTT platform ZEE5.

In an official communication sent by Special Director General of Police (Cyber Crime), V. Neeraja, the state police raised serious concerns over the content of the documentary, which reportedly chronicles the life and criminal trajectory of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. The series is said to include dramatised portrayals and real-life references to high-profile crimes, including the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala and other violent incidents.

According to the letter, authorities fear that the documentary may “glorify and simplify organised crime,” potentially influencing young audiences by normalising or romanticising criminal activities. The police also warned that such content could undermine ongoing law enforcement efforts and disturb public order in the state.

The request has been made under Section 69A(1) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, along with relevant provisions of the IT (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public) Rules, 2009. The Punjab Police have specifically asked for directions to ZEE5 to refrain from streaming the documentary and to remove access to its trailer globally.

The communication further cites previous observations by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which had taken suo motu cognisance of interviews of Lawrence Bishnoi allegedly recorded inside jail premises. The court had noted that such content could promote criminal activity and adversely impact ongoing trials, directing authorities to remove similar material from digital platforms.

Officials highlighted that internet-based content has a far wider reach and greater impact due to its audio-visual nature, making it more accessible and influential, especially among impressionable viewers.

The move comes amid growing scrutiny of crime-based content on digital platforms, particularly those perceived to sensationalise or glorify criminal figures. The Ministry is yet to respond to the request. (ANI)

The high-voltage battle for West Bengal reaches its first critical crescendo tomorrow, April 23, 2026, as 152 constituencies across the state go to the polls in Phase 1.

With over 3.22 crore voters eligible to cast their ballots, the day marks the beginning of a decisive chapter in the contest between the incumbent Trinamool Congress (TMC) and a resurgent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The final 48 hours of the campaign have been characterised by sharp personal attacks, landmark manifesto promises, and a record-breaking enforcement drive by the Election Commission.

The battle between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has turned into a high-stakes showdown. The remaining 142 seats will go to the polls on April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.

The political temperature soared on Wednesday as the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) locked horns in a no-holds-barred exchange of accusations, promises, and sharp rhetoric.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah led the BJP’s final push with multiple rallies and roadshows, sharpening his attack on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on multiple fronts–law and order, corruption, infiltration, and governance.

“Both Love Jihad and Land Jihad will come to an end… farmers will get Rs 9,000… women and unemployed youth will get Rs 3,000 per month,” he promised, outlining a sweeping welfare and governance agenda.

Shah also sharpened his attack on the TMC’s governance model. “Mamata Banerjee is involved in scams worth Rs 10,000 crore… don’t fear the goons… BJP is going to form the government, and the goons will be sent behind bars,” he said.

Raising national security concerns, he added, “The infiltrators are taking away jobs… the BJP will free this country from infiltrators.”

In Dum Dum and other rallies, Shah went further, alleging a “syndicate raj” and promising its end. “If you need cement, bricks or sand, you have to pay the syndicate… after May 5, they will flee Bengal,” he said, while also asserting, “the BJP will not allow Babri Masjid to be built in Bengal.”

He also targeted Congress leadership, reacting strongly to Mallikarjun Kharge’s remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “The man who devoted his life to ending terrorism is being called a terrorist… the public will settle the account,” Shah said, adding that Congress would struggle electorally across states.

Shah also held a massive roadshow in the Sonarpur Dakshin Assembly constituency of South 24 Parganas district amid tight security.

The Trinamool Congress countered sharply, accusing BJP leaders of disrespecting Bengal’s cultural icons. TMC slammed Shah for allegedly mispronouncing poet Satyendranath Dutta’s name.

In a strongly worded response, the TMC said, “How illiterate can one be about the land they seek to govern? Those who cannot name Bengal’s icons correctly have no business claiming to be Bengal’s guardians.”

The party doubled down on its “Bohiragoto” (outsider) narrative, asserting, “They were, they are, and they will forever remain Bangla-Birodhi Bohiragotos.”

Adding to the tension, the TMC earlier in the day filed a complaint accusing the BJP of running “special trains” from Surat to Bengal, allegedly offering free travel and food to influence voters.

Calling it a violation of electoral law, TMC MP Derek O’Brien said it amounted to “bribery, undue influence and illegal transport of voters,” demanding strict action.

BJP National President Nitin Nabin accused TMC leaders of disrespecting the national song, saying, “Vande Mataram has an unbreakable bond with the BJP and the people of the country… The people of West Bengal will reject those who insult it.” He further added, “This time, the people of West Bengal are fighting the election… against the TMC’s hooliganism, anarchy, and corruption.”

Joining the campaign trail, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath invoked Bengal’s cultural identity while attacking the ruling party.

“This is the land that gave the nation its national anthem and national song… but today, this identity is being insulted,” he said, alleging that TMC had replaced cultural symbols with political imagery. He also compared Bengal’s law and order situation with pre-2017 Uttar Pradesh, claiming “today there is Ram Rajya in UP.”

BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia also targeted Mamata Banerjee, stating, “She has become synonymous with jungle raj… If she has even a shred of shame left, she should resign.”

Meanwhile, Opposition leaders struck a different tone. Congress leader Sachin Pilot said, “The people of Bengal desire change… development that should have taken place has not materialised.”

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal expressed support for Mamata Banerjee, calling the election “one of the most difficult battles for Indian democracy.”

Amid the heated political battle, the Election Commission stepped up enforcement, seizing over Rs 1,000 crore worth of cash, liquor, drugs, and freebies across West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.

The poll body reiterated its focus on clean elections, stating it aims to ensure “violence-free, intimidation-free and inducement-free elections.”

To ensure strict vigilance, over 5,011 Flying Squad Teams and 5,363 Static Surveillance Teams have been deployed, conducting surprise checks and responding to complaints within 100 minutes.

Strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct is underway, with agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Income Tax Department, and police working in coordination.

The Chief Electoral Officer has also imposed strict restrictions on motorcycle movement and rallies, including a ban on motorcycle rallies and limits on vehicle movement during night hours (6 PM-6 AM), to prevent intimidation and unlawful mobilisation

Officials said these steps are meant to “maintain a calm and conducive atmosphere for voters.”

The EC has emphasised that misuse of money power, inducements, and state machinery will be dealt with firmly, while also cautioning officials to avoid harassment of ordinary citizens during checks.

In the run-up to polling, several constituencies across West Bengal have emerged as direct face-offs between major parties, reflecting both past electoral trends and current political shifts.

In Bhabanipur, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (TMC) is locked in a high-profile contest against BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari, who had defeated her in Nandigram in 2021 by a narrow margin of around 1,956 votes, making both seats symbolically and politically crucial. In Nandigram, the BJP has again fielded Adhikari, while the TMC has nominated Pabitra Kar, setting up another intense contest rooted in the constituency’s history of the 2007 land movement.

In Kharagpur Sadar, BJP’s Dilip Ghosh, a prominent party face who previously held the seat, is contesting against TMC’s Pradip Sarkar, in a constituency known for shifting loyalties over the years. Meanwhile, Asansol Dakshin sees BJP’s Agnimitra Paul in a multi-cornered contest against TMC’s Tapas Banerjee and other candidates, after the BJP had gained ground in the industrial belts in the last election.

In Murshidabad, BJP’s Gouri Sankar Ghosh and TMC’s Shaoni Singha Roy are once again facing off after a closely fought 2021 contest decided by just over 2,400 votes, making it one of the tightest battlegrounds. In Mathabhanga, former Union minister Nishith Pramanik is contesting for the BJP, while TMC has fielded its own strong candidate, reflecting the party’s push in North Bengal.

Baharampur features Congress heavyweight Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury attempting a comeback after a previous electoral setback, while in Siliguri, BJP’s Shankar Ghosh is taking on the TMC-backed local leadership, indicating a direct BJP-TMC fight in urban North Bengal. In Darjeeling, TMC has fielded a retired educator against BJP’s Noman Rai, highlighting the party’s strategy to counter BJP’s influence in the hills.

Other notable constituencies include Dum Dum Uttar, where TMC minister Chandrima Bhattacharya is contesting, Tollyganj with Aroop Biswas for TMC, Kolkata Port with Firhad Hakim, and Ballygunge with Babul Supriyo, all representing key urban strongholds for the ruling party. BJP, on the other hand, has fielded leaders like Dilip Ghosh, Suvendu Adhikari, and Nishith Pramanik across regions to expand its footprint.

Beyond these, constituencies such as Chanchal, Nowda, Rejinagar, Maldaha, and Jadavpur are witnessing multi-cornered contests involving TMC, BJP, Congress, and Left parties, reflecting the fragmented opposition space and localised issues shaping voter choices.

Overall, while TMC dominated the 2021 Assembly elections with over 200 seats and nearly 48.5% vote share, BJP’s rise to 77 seats has turned many of these constituencies into direct and closely contested battlegrounds in 2026, where even small vote swings could alter outcomes significantly.

Coming to the manifestos, the BJP’s “Sankalp Patra,” themed “Sonar Bangla,” promises one crore jobs, Rs 3,000 monthly assistance to women and youth, Rs 9,000 for farmers, 33% reservation for women, and action against infiltration.

Amit Shah, while unveiling the manifesto, said the vision is to take Bengal “from despair to development.”

However, TMC leaders dismissed it as “a recycled catalogue of jumlas and deception,” questioning the BJP’s track record. Mamata Banerjee termed it a “report card of failed assurances,” urging voters to remain vigilant.

Meanwhile, one of the biggest issues shaping the election is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, which has led to the deletion of over 60 lakh to 90 lakh names, reducing the voter base from around 7.66 crore to 7.04 crore.

The process, conducted under judicial supervision, has sparked fierce political debate. The TMC has alleged voter suppression, while the BJP has defended it as a necessary clean-up of bogus entries.

As West Bengal heads into the first phase of voting, the contest is between claims of “Sonar Bangla” and charges of “outsider politics”.

The state is set to witness a high-voltage contest between the incumbent Trinamool Congress, which is seeking a fourth consecutive term, and the BJP, which is aiming to form the government after a strong showing in the previous elections.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is aiming for a fourth consecutive term, while the BJP, which secured 77 seats in the previous election, is making a renewed push to form the government in the state.

Now all eyes are on the ballot boxes as Bengal prepares to script its next political chapter. (ANI)

Actor Fardeen Khan has had the opportunity to experience a father’s first dance with his daughter Diani.

In an adorable Instagram post, Fardeen shared a video from what appears to be a party, where he joined his daughter for a beautiful dance. The father-daughter duo seemed joyous as they matched steps to a party song.

Fardeen poured out his emotions on watching his daughter growing up and finally having the first dance, which the actor described as a “privilege”.

“They say a father’s first dance with his daughter is a privilege unlike any other — and a few days ago I finally understood why. Twelve years of watching my little sunshine grow, and somehow she’s still my little girl, twirling in my arms — and I hope she always remains so. This one’s mine to keep forever,” he wrote.

The video instantly sparked reactions from Fardeen Khan’s friends and family members, with people adoring the father and daughter.

Actors like Manisha Koirala, Bobby Deol, Dia Mirza, Rahul Dev, and Tara Sharma showed love in the comment section.

Sussanne Khan commented, “Omggggggggod far this is preciousssssss…. Love uuuuu both to the moon,” while Zayed Khan added, “Supeeeeeerrrrrrbbbbbb!!!”

Fardeen married veteran actor Mumtaz’s daughter Natasha in December 2005. The couple are also parents to a son, Azarius Fardeen Khan (2017).

On the work front for Fardeen Khan, he was recently seen in Akshay Kumar starrer ‘Housefull 5’.

Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, the film stars Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, Nana Patekar, Jackie Shroff, Ranjeet, Johny Lever, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri, Chunky Panday, Dino Morea, Sonam Bajwa and Soundarya Sharma. (ANI)

China on Wednesday dismissed US President Donald Trump’s claim that a vessel intercepted by US forces in the Strait of Hormuz may have been carrying a “gift from China” to Tehran, reiterating that it has always complied with its international obligations.

Responding to a question on Trump’s comments during a regular press conference here, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that Beijing has repeatedly clarified its position on the matter and emphasised its record as a responsible global power.

“China has made clear its position more than once. Let me reiterate that as a responsible major country, China has always been a role model in performing its due international obligations,” the spokesperson said.

Earlier on Tuesday, Trump claimed that American forces intercepted a vessel allegedly carrying materials from China intended for Iran, describing the shipment as a “gift”.

Speaking in an interview on CNBC Squawk Box, Trump said the United States had recently seized a ship carrying unspecified items, suggesting it may have originated from China and was bound for Iran.

“We caught a ship yesterday that had some things on it which wasn’t very nice – a gift from China, perhaps. I don’t know,” Trump said.

“I was a little surprised, because I have a very good relationship and I thought I had an understanding with President Xi, but that’s all right. That’s the way war goes, right?” the US President added.

China had earlier denied reports that it assisted Iran in countering US and Israeli forces during the recent hostilities in West Asia.

Last week, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China slammed media reports saying that China is providing military aid to Iran.

According to spokesperson Lin Jian, the reports are “fabricated”, and any measure taken by the US against China based on the reports will come with severe countermeasures from Beijing.

“Media reports accusing China of providing military support to Iran are purely fabricated. If the U.S. goes ahead with tariff hikes on China on the basis of these accusations, China will respond with countermeasures,” the spokespersons said.

In the same press briefing, Guo also responded to questions regarding the US announcement of an extended ceasefire with Iran. He said the situation in the region remained at a “critical stage” and stressed the importance of preventing a renewed escalation.

“The pressing priority is to prevent by all means a relapse in fighting. China supports relevant parties in continuing the political and diplomatic effort to resolve disputes with the aim of realising a full and lasting ceasefire and keeping the Middle East and Gulf region peaceful and stable,” he said.

Guo further stated that China is prepared to engage constructively with the international community, referencing the “four-point proposition” put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“China stands ready to act in the spirit of the four-point proposition put forward by President Xi Jinping and work with the international community to play an active and constructive role to this end,” he added.

Trump on Tuesday announced the extension of the ceasefire with Iran, citing the need to allow Tehran’s leadership more time to formulate a unified proposal for negotiations and further claiming that the Iranian government was “seriously fractured.”

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed concerns over internal divisions within Iran’s government and appeals from international stakeholders. He also stated that the US military would remain on alert while maintaining a blockade until further diplomatic progress is made. (ANI)

Actor Shilpa Shetty marked Earth Day 2026 with a reflective social media post on Wednesday, encouraging followers to reconnect with nature through a simple grounding practice.

Sharing a video on Instagram, the actor was seen walking barefoot on the grass in the backyard of her residence.

In the clip, Shetty appears relaxed and mindful, taking slow steps across the lawn.

Accompanying the video, she wrote a caption in which she highlighted the importance of reconnecting with the Earth.

“On Earth Day and every day, a gentle reminder to ‘ground yourself’ bare feet on the earth, letting her energy heal and restore you… reconnect with nature, the sun on your skin, soil beneath your feet, birds chirping, waves whispering, and the breeze brushing your face… because when you touch the Earth, you remember who you truly are,” she wrote.

Known for promoting yoga, clean eating, and mindfulness, Shilpa Shetty frequently uses her platform to share wellness tips with her fans.

Earth Day 2026 falls on April 22 and marks the 56th anniversary of the global environmental movement, which began in 1970.

This year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” underscores the role of community-driven efforts in environmental conservation.

On the professional front, Shilpa Shetty was last seen as a judge on the dance reality show ‘Super Dancer Chapter 5’. She is set to appear next in the upcoming project ‘KD: The Devil’, where she will play a key role. (ANI)

India’s telecommunications sector expanded by 9.28 million subscribers in March 2026, bringing the total number of telephone users in the country to 1,330.58 million.

According to the latest data released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), the industry maintained a monthly growth rate of 0.70 per cent. The wireless segment remained the primary engine of this growth, contributing 9.02 million new connections, while wireline services added 0.25 million subscribers during the same period.

The broadband sector reached a significant milestone, with the total subscriber base climbing to 1,065.88 million. This segment, which includes both wired and wireless connections, saw an addition of 6.83 million users over the previous month.

Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. continued to lead the broadband market with 523.44 million subscribers, followed by Bharti Airtel Ltd. with 368.84 million and Vodafone Idea Ltd. with 128.91 million.

“As per the information received from 1520 operators for the month of March 2026, the total number of broadband subscribers increased from 1059.05 million at the end of February 2026 to 1065.88 million at the end of March 2026 with a monthly growth rate of 0.65%,” the TRAI report stated.

Geographical data showed that urban areas accounted for 778.79 million of the total telephone subscribers, while rural areas reached 551.79 million.

In the wireless segment specifically, rural growth slightly outpaced urban expansion on a percentage basis. Rural wireless subscriptions grew at a rate of 0.74 per cent, adding 4.04 million users, whereas urban wireless subscriptions increased by 0.68 per cent with 4.98 million additions.

“The number of wireless (mobile + Fixed Wireless Access) subscribers increased from 1273.31 million at the end of February 2026 to 1282.33 million at the end of March 2026, thereby registering a monthly growth rate of 0.71%,” the report noted regarding the wireless sector’s performance.

The market remained highly concentrated among the top five broadband service providers, who collectively held a 98.60 per cent market share. Beyond the top three private players, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. (BSNL) held 27.37 million broadband subscribers, while Atria Convergence Technologies Ltd. recorded 2.40 million. In terms of overall wireless mobile subscriptions, the dominance of the private sector remained clear.

“At the end of March 2026, the private access service providers held 92.64% of the market share in terms of wireless (mobile) subscribers, whereas PSU access service providers viz. BSNL and MTNL together held a market share of 7.36%,” the TRAI reported.

The overall tele-density in the country rose to 93.26 per cent by the end of March. Urban tele-density stood at 151.47 per cent, reflecting a high concentration of devices per individual in cities, while rural tele-density was recorded at 60.46 per cent. Without including M2M cellular mobile connections, the national tele-density was adjusted to 84.57 per cent. (ANI)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led state government, asserting that once the BJP comes to power, issues like “Love Jihad” and “Land Jihad” brewing in the state under “TMC ruling” would come to an end.

Addressing a public meeting in Saptagram, Shah also said that farmers and state government employees will benefit from the schemes which will be put in place by the BJP after coming to power.

“Both Love Jihad and Land Jihad will come to an end. Government employees will get the benefits of the 7th Pay Commission and DA. Farmers will be given Rs 9,000 instead of Rs 6,000 under the Kisan Samman Nidhi. Pensions for widows, senior citizens, and the disabled will be set at Rs 2,000. The BJP will also work to free us from the syndicate,” he said.

Referring to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s “terrorist remark”, Shah said, “Kharge ji says that Modi ji is a terrorist. Kharge sahab, shame on you, the man who devoted his entire life to ending terrorism, you call him a terrorist. The public will settle the full account.”

Once again raking up the infiltration issue, Shah said, “Modi ji has freed this country from terrorism and Naxalism. Today I say as I go, the BJP will also free this country from infiltrators.”

He further raised the issue of border fencing, alleging delays from the state government.

“The BSF needs 600 acres of land to build the fence. Mamata Didi is not giving it. I promise you that if you form a BJP government, we will get the job done of handing over the entire land to the BSF for building the fence within 45 days,” Shah said.

“The infiltrators are taking away jobs, consuming resources meant for the poor, and threatening the internal security of the country,” he added.

Shah also accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of corruption. “Mamata Banerjee is involved in a slew of scams worth Rs 10,000 crore. They believe that nothing will happen to them. On 5th May, BJP will form the government, and Didi will have to return the money she devoured through various scams,” he said.

Attacking the ruling Trinamool Congress, Shah further said, “Don’t fear the goons of Mamata. Vote with confidence. BJP is going to form the government, and the goons of Mamata will be sent behind bars.”

He also criticised the state government on women’s safety, stating, “Mamata Didi says that mothers should not step out of their homes after 7 PM. You form a BJP government, strengthening Modi’s hands. Even at night, a little girl should be able to go out on her scooter, and no thug should have the courage to even glance up at her.”

On welfare promises, Shah said, “Elect the BJP government, and I assure you 33% reservation in government jobs for women. Unemployed youths will be credited Rs 3000 per month in account. Women, too, will get Rs 3000 per month in their account. In the entire Bengal, women will be able to travel free in the government buses.”

In Balikukhari, Shah reiterated his attack on the ruling party, saying, “Mamata Banerjee is going, lotus is coming… On the 29th, vote to drive out the infiltrators from Bengal… Mamata Banerjee brings in the infiltrators herself. But on the 5th, our BJP’s promise is not just Bengal, but across the whole of India, we will handpick and drive out the infiltrators.”

The polling for the 294-member Assembly in West Bengal will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.

As per the Election Commission of India (ECI), the first phase covers 152 Assembly constituencies, while the second phase includes 142 seats.

The state is set to witness a high-voltage contest between the incumbent Trinamool Congress, which is seeking a fourth consecutive term, and the BJP, which is aiming to form the government after a strong showing in the previous elections.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is aiming for a fourth consecutive term, while the BJP, which secured 77 seats in the previous election, is making a renewed push to form the government in the state. (ANI)

Veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan and his wife Pinkie Roshan celebrated 55 years of marriage, with the director sharing a heartfelt note for her on social media.

Roshan took to Instagram and posted a series of pictures with Pinkie Roshan. Along with the photos, he wrote, “We fought our way through 55 years of marriage, and we’re still standing stronger than the Eiffel tower Happy anniversary to us.”

Soon after he shared the post, fans and friends chimed in the comment section to congratulate the couple. Actor Anupam Kher wrote, “Happy Anniversary to both of you. Love and prayers always,” while their daughter Sunaina added, “My heartbeats”

Take a look

The couple got married in 1971. Pinkie Roshan is the daughter of filmmaker J. Om Prakash. They are parents to two children, Sunaina Roshan and actor Hrithik Roshan.

Rakesh Roshan first made his mark as an actor and appeared in many films during the 1970s and 1980s. He later became one of Hindi cinema’s successful filmmakers. His directorial work includes Khudgarz, Khoon Bhari Maang, Kishen Kanhaiya, Karan Arjun, Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, Koi… Mil Gaya and the Krrish franchise.

Meanwhile, the Roshan family continues to stay busy with new projects. His son, actor Hrithik Roshan is all set to mark his directorial debut with ‘Krrish 4.’ The superhero film is being backed by Yash Raj Films in association with Rakesh Roshan. Hrithik will also act in the film while handling directing duties.

Apart from that, Hrithik is also entering the OTT space as a producer with Storm, a thriller set in Mumbai. The project is being made for Prime Video. The first look of the project was unveiled at the Prime Video 2026 Release Slate event held in Mumbai recently. (ANI)