Month: April 2026

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday paid tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar on his birth anniversary, describing him as a visionary who gave India its “moral and Constitutional soul” and urging citizens to defend the values enshrined in the Constitution.

In a post on X, Kharge said, “On the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Dr B. R. Ambedkar, we bow with deep reverence to the visionary who gave India its moral and Constitutional soul. Babasaheb was not just the architect of the Constitution of India, but a relentless warrior for Liberty, Equality, Fraternity and Justice, values that define the very idea of India.”

Saying that with the Constitution being under a “conspiratorial attack”, there is all the more need to defend the principles he enshrined in India’s supreme founding document.

“Today, when the Constitution faces a conspiratorial attack, his words and warnings echo with renewed urgency. This is a moment that calls for courage and conviction. We must not merely remember him, we must rise to defend every principle he enshrined, to protect every right he secured, and to uphold every value he lived and fought for,” Kharge wrote.

In a separate post, Kharge also extended greetings on multiple regional festivals, including Baisakhi, Bohag Bihu, Puthandu, Poila Baisakh, Biju and Maha Bishuba Pana Sankranti. “Our warm wishes on the joyous occasions… These festivals bring with them renewed hope, optimism and the spirit of fresh beginnings. May these celebrations fill every home with joy, usher in prosperity, and strengthen the bonds of unity and amity among all,” he said.

Dr BR Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb, was the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a key figure in India’s social reform movement. Born into a Dalit Mahar family, he dedicated his life to securing equal rights for marginalised communities and promoting social justice.

Ambedkar served as independent India’s first Law and Justice Minister and was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1990 for his contributions to the nation. (ANI)

Singer-songwriter Billie Eilish has teamed up with acclaimed filmmaker James Cameron for a new 3D concert film titled ‘Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour’ (Live in 3D), which is set to release on May 8, according to People.

The newly released trailer offers a behind-the-scenes look at Eilish’s sold-out world tour and her collaboration with Cameron, who serves as co-director on the project.

“It’s your show. It’s your creative vision. This is going to blow people’s minds,” Cameron says in the opening of the trailer.

The trailer shows the duo working closely together, including scenes of them wearing 3D glasses and discussing creative decisions for the film. In one moment, Eilish asks, “So how does that even work, just out of curiosity?” to which Cameron responds, “We’re going to have to play some games, but we’ll make it look great,” according to People.

The film aims to take audiences beyond the stage, offering immersive access to Eilish’s performances and behind-the-scenes moments from her global tour. It also highlights her close connection with fans, whom she refers to as “friends.”

“The day of a show, for me, just feels like any day at all. I just feel like I’m going to hang out with my friends,” Eilish says in the trailer, adding, “I want to feel like it’s me and them.”

“You love them?” Cameron asks later in the trailer, to which Eilish replies, “I love them.”

The “Birds of a Feather” singer later declares, “I want to be the artist that I would want to be a fan of,” according to People.

The singer also reveals a personal tour tradition of maintaining a “puppy room” at each venue, allowing her crew to spend time with rescue dogs amid the demands of touring. Cameron is seen engaging with the idea, saying, “I’m doing this on my next movie for sure,” according to People.

Describing the project, the official synopsis states that the film brings an “innovative new concert experience to the big screen from one of the most celebrated and successful artists of her generation,” according to People.

Eilish later shared the trailer on Instagram, writing, “It’s almost HEREEEEE,” building anticipation among fans worldwide, according to People. (ANI)

A film chronicling the life and legacy of Indian saint Neem Karoli Baba is in the works.

On Monday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami unveiled the promo and poster of the film titled ‘Shree Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj’.

The Chief Minister noted that the divine life of Neem Karoli Baba continues to inspire millions of people even today.

At the unveiling of the film’s poster, Yoga Guru Swami Ramdev, Swami Chidanand Saraswati, film director Sharad Singh Thakur, and artists were present.

The project features acclaimed actors including Subhod Bhave, Hiten Tejwani, Mohit Gupta.

A few weeks ago, Hiten took to Instagram and shared the film’s poster.

“Poster of our film Shree Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj was released in Lucknow today . With the blessings of Maharaj ji and love of all of you, we hope that you guys will love this film and shower your love on our film. A blissful moment for our whole team and me. Gratitude,” he wrote.

The movie is directed by Sharad Singh Thakur.

Baba Neem Karori Dham, Kainchi, is located on the Nainital-Almora road in Uttarakhand. (ANI)

Legendary singer Asha Bhosle was cremated with full state honours on Monday at the Shivaji Park Crematorium in Mumbai, where a large gathering of mourners came together to pay their final respects to the iconic voice that enthralled generations for more than eight decades.

Wrapped in the tricolour, the mortal remains of Asha Bhosle, fondly known as “Asha Tai,” were consigned to flames following a traditional gun salute by the Mumbai Police.

The city witnessed an emotional day as fans, political leaders, and members of the film and music industry came together to pay their last respects to the melody queen.

Her last rites were performed by her son Anand.

The legendary vocalist was also given a musical tribute by singers Shaan and Sudesh Bhosale.

Several well-known faces from the film world arrived to pay floral tributes to the legendary singer. Actors Vicky Kaushal, Aamir Khan, Vivek Oberoi, Padmini Kolapuri and Jackie Shroff were among those seen at Shivaji Park.

Apart from the film industry, several senior political leaders were also present at the crematorium. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde attended the funeral and paid floral tributes to the iconic singer.

NCP-SCP MP Supriya Sule, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, Rashmi Thackeray, and Aaditya Thackeray also visited to offer their respects.

Actors Ranveer Singh and Riteish Deshmukh also visited her residence earlier in the day to offer condolences. Veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan also paid tribute to the singer whose songs defined generations of Hindi cinema.

Her mortal remains were earlier kept at her residence for public homage, draped in the Tricolour. Long queues of admirers were seen outside the home, with many offering flowers, folding hands in prayer, and remembering the singer through tears.

Among other dignitaries who paid tribute were Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and state minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha.

Music composer Uttam Singh remembered Asha Bhosle not just as a great artist but as a warm-hearted human being. Recalling an old memory, he shared how she once cooked food for his team late at night after a recording session.

“It was around 1:30 at night. As we were about to leave, she saw us and asked us to wait. Within minutes, she went inside, cooked chicken and rice herself, and insisted we eat before leaving. She was that kind of person,” he said.

Soon after the news of her death broke on Sunday, tributes poured in from across the country. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, for whom she sang the much-loved song ‘Zara Sa Jhoom Loon Main’ from the classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, remembered her as a timeless voice of Indian cinema.

In his message, Shah Rukh Khan wrote, “It’s truly sad to learn about Asha Tai’s passing. Her voice has been one of the pillars of Indian cinema and will continue to resonate across the world for centuries to come.”

Widely regarded as one of the most versatile singers in Indian music, Asha Bhosle’s repertoire spanned classical compositions, ghazals, cabaret songs, and contemporary pop. She holds a Guinness World Record for the most studio recordings and, along with her sister Lata Mangeshkar, helped define the golden era of Hindi film music.

Born to classical singer and theatre actor Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar, she began her musical journey at a young age and went on to build an unparalleled legacy.

Her collaborations with composer RD Burman, whom she later married, remain among the most celebrated in Indian cinema. Her iconic hits include Piya Tu Ab To Aaja and the rebellious Dum Maro Dum. Her versatile range also spans the soulful ghazal Dil Cheez Kya Hai, playful classics like Chura Liya Hai Tumne, and the timeless dance anthem Yeh Mera Dil. (ANI)

Former Australian cricketer Brett Lee has offered a heartfelt tribute to music icon Asha Bhosle, revisiting the days when he collaborated with her for a duet, ‘You’re the One’.

Taking to his Instagram handle, Brett Lee shared a series of pictures with the late singer and paid homage.

“I had the pleasure of writing and recording You’re the One for Me with Asha Bhosle back in 2006. It’s something I’ll always be incredibly grateful for. What stayed with me most wasn’t just her extraordinary talent, but how kind and humble she was. For someone who had achieved so much in her life, she carried herself with such warmth and generosity,” he wrote.

Extending his support for Asha Bhosle’s family and friends, the former seamer added, “My thoughts are with her family and friends at this time. I feel very fortunate to have shared even a small moment with someone so special. There’s no doubt her legacy will live on for generations to come.”

The song titled ‘You’re the One for Me’ from the album Asha and Friends featured former Australian cricketer Brett Lee crooning Hindi lines alongside India’s melody queen Asha Bhosle. In the track, he could be heard singing, “Haan, main tumhara hu, tumhara hi rahunga,” delighting music and cricket lovers.

In his autobiography, ‘My Life’, Brett Lee described Asha Bhosle as the Aretha Franklin of Indian music.

The music video was shot in 2006, when Brett Lee was in India for the Champions Trophy. During his visit, he was approached by a music label as part of an ambitious compilation project that brought together international artists for the album Asha and Friends.

Asha Bhosle breathed her last on Sunday. She was 92. Doctor Prateet Samdani of Breach Candy Hospital confirmed that the veteran singer had been dealing with multiple health issues and died due to organ failure.

Her final rites are scheduled to take place at Shivaji Park with full state honours, today. Political leaders and members of the entertainment industry gathered to pay their respects. (ANI)

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday assured residents that both domestic and commercial LPG supplies in the capital remain stable, adequate and under control, with no shortage of LPG or any other fuel. She urged people not to be influenced by rumours or panic, and to remain calm.

Sharing an update on domestic LPG, the Chief Minister said that on April 12, a total of 1,11,766 bookings were recorded, while the three Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) delivered 1,30,094 cylinders, well above the number of bookings, according to the CMO.

This indicates that pending backlogs are being cleared efficiently and the supply chain remains robust. The average delivery time has improved to 3.87 days from 4.24 days earlier, ensuring timely doorstep delivery, as stated in the release.

On the commercial side, Delhi has been allocated 6,480 LPG cylinders (19 kg equivalent) per day. In comparison, the average daily offtake over the past week has been only 4,268 cylinders, including 5 kg Free Trade LPG cylinders, clearly showing that supply is exceeding demand. The Chief Minister appealed to all commercial LPG consumers, particularly users of 5 kg cylinders, to avoid unnecessary concern or stockpiling. She reiterated that the distribution system across the city is functioning smoothly and that adequate stock is available at all times.

To facilitate access, a dedicated control room of the Food and Civil Supplies Department is operational. Commercial consumers facing any difficulty in obtaining LPG cylinders can contact 011-23379836 or 8383824659 between 9:00 am and 7:00 pm on any day of the week.

The government has also encouraged consumers and institutions to opt for Piped Natural Gas (PNG) wherever available, as it provides a reliable and continuous fuel supply. Bulk users such as hospitals and educational institutions have been advised to shift to PNG at the earliest to enhance efficiency, safety and supply reliability.

Additionally, consumers are being encouraged to consider electric or induction cooking as a medium to long-term alternative to ensure uninterrupted energy access. CM Gupta reiterated that the Delhi government is closely monitoring the situation on a daily basis and remains fully committed to ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply across the capital. (ANI)

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday hit out at the BJP government over the violent protest by employees of a company in Noida Phase 2, alleging that “injustice has reached its peak” in the state.

Reacting to the protest incidents, Yadav told reporters, “Injustice has reached its peak under the BJP government. All kinds of injustice are happening. Injustice is happening economically. Injustice is being inflicted by increasing inflation. Injustice is being done by rising unemployment. What we saw today in Noida–workers have been demanding their rights on a large scale.”

He further held the administration and the state government responsible for the situation.

“The entire responsibility lies with the administration and the government,” he said.

Raising concerns over wage disparities, the Samajwadi Party chief added, “When workers’ salaries were increased in other states, why hasn’t the government provided relief in Uttar Pradesh?”

The workers from Hosiery Complex in Phase 2 of Uttar Pradesh’s Noida have been protesting while demanding increased wages. Today, the protest turned violent with the protesters allegedly vandalising vehicles and properties, pelting stones during an altercation with the police.

A large number of workers of a company had gathered in protest, pressing their demands for a salary increase. A car was also torched amid the protest.

Heavy police deployment was made at the protest site to bring the situation under control.

On Sunday, the District Magistrate of Noida, Medha Roopam, held a meeting with Principal Secretary (Labour) and Labour Commissioner of the state to discuss protection of workers’ interests, double payment for overtime, bonus, and workplace safety.

“An important meeting was held in the Noida Authority to maintain industrial peace, in which the Principal Secretary (Labour) and Labour Commissioner, UP, participated virtually and discussed topics including the protection of workers’ interests, double payment for overtime, bonus, weekly holidays, and workplace safety,” the DM wrote on X. (ANI)

“I am not questioning the integrity of the court, but I have a real and reasonable apprehension that I may not get a fair hearing”, with this, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal opened his arguments before the Delhi High Court on Monday, pressing for recusal of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma in the CBI’s excise policy case.

Appearing in person, Kejriwal built his case around the principle that even a reasonable apprehension of bias is sufficient in law to seek recusal. He told the Court that his plea is based on ten specific grounds and insisted that the issue lies in perception, not proof of actual bias.

Central to his submissions was the argument that earlier observations of the Court in related matters had been “so strong” that they appeared to carry the weight of final findings. He referred to multiple previous cases, including those of the co-accused, to argue that such observations now cast a shadow on the present proceedings. “The question is whether those earlier views continue to weigh in the mind of the court,” he submitted.

Kejriwal contrasted these observations with the trial court’s discharge order, which came after months of day-to-day hearings and held that no offence, bribery or proceeds of crime were established, while also questioning the reliability of approver statements. He argued that the High Court’s interim intervention, particularly the March 9 order passed without hearing all parties, had the effect of undermining those findings. “What was the urgency for such an order?” he asked, adding that it created a serious doubt in his mind.

He further contended that discharge orders are not to be stayed lightly, citing Supreme Court precedent, and argued that the partial stay granted in his case effectively diluted the trial court’s conclusions. He also raised concerns over the pace of proceedings, stating that his matter was being heard at an unusually fast rate compared to other criminal revisions, both involving opposition leaders.

Seeking parity, Kejriwal referred to instances where recusal had been accepted on the basis of apprehension alone. “I am only asking for the same standard,” he said, adding that his apprehensions are on “stronger footing.”

Throughout his submissions, Kejriwal maintained that his plea is limited and procedural in nature, stressing that the recusal issue is “between the court and the party” and not a matter for the prosecuting agency.

The Court, however, indicated that it would confine the hearing strictly to the recusal application and the grounds raised, observing that issues relating to the merits of the trial court’s order would be considered separately.

Opposing the plea, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), through Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, termed the application “frivolous, vexatious and baseless,” arguing that it is founded on conjectures and aimed at undermining the institution of the judiciary. He submitted that dissatisfaction with interim observations cannot justify recusal and warned that such practices would lead to “bench hunting.”

The CBI maintained that interim observations are tentative and cannot be construed as biased. It defended the March 9 order, stating that courts are empowered to pass interim directions based on available material and legal questions, even without examining the entire trial court record at that stage.

The agency also argued that service of notice through counsel is legally valid and that proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) continue unless there is a final acquittal in the predicate offence. It further denied any undue haste in the proceedings, citing the need for expeditious adjudication in cases involving public representatives. Concluding its submissions, the CBI urged the Court to dismiss the plea with costs, calling it an abuse of process.

The High Court is currently hearing the CBI’s challenge to the trial court’s discharge of Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, and others in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 case. Earlier, the Chief Justice had declined a request for transfer of the matter, leaving the question of recusal to be decided by the concerned bench.

The case pertains to alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22, which remains under investigation by central agencies, with several AAP leaders named as accused.

Meanwhile, on Monday, former Delhi CM and AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal arrived at the Delhi High Court for a hearing on his recusal petition. He filed his recusal petition before Justice Swarn Kanta Sharma.

Declining to comment on the case outside the courtroom, Kejriwal, while talking to the reporters, said, “I will speak only before the Court. Matter is sub-judice.” (ANI)

A stream of political leaders, film personalities and admirers gathered in Mumbai on Monday to pay their last respects to legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle, whose mortal remains were placed for public homage at her residence, draped in the Tricolour.

The veteran singer passed away on Sunday at the age of 92 at Breach Candy Hospital, bringing to a close an extraordinary career that spanned more than eight decades.

Among those who paid tribute were NCP-SCP MP Supriya Sule and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, accompanied by Rashmi Thackeray and Aaditya Thackeray.

Actor Riteish Deshmukh also visited the residence to offer his respects.

Veteran actor and filmmaker Rakesh Roshan also visited Asha Bhosle’s residence to pay his last tribute to the iconic singer.

The Governor of Maharashtra, Jishnu Dev Varma, and the state’s Minister for Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, were among other dignitaries who paid tribute to the revered artist.

Visuals from the residence showed a steady flow of visitors, including family members, members of the film fraternity, officials and fans, all gathering to honour one of India’s most iconic voices.

Her final rites are scheduled to be conducted with full state honours at 4 pm today at Shivaji Park in Mumbai.

Widely regarded as one of the most versatile singers in Indian music, Asha Bhosle’s repertoire spanned classical compositions, ghazals, cabaret songs and contemporary pop. She held a Guinness World Record for the most studio recordings and, along with her sister Lata Mangeshkar, helped define the golden era of Hindi film music.

Born to classical singer and theatre actor Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar, she began her musical journey at a young age and went on to build an unparalleled legacy.

Her collaborations with composer RD Burman, whom she later married, remain among the most celebrated in Indian cinema.

Her iconic hits include “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja” and the rebellious “Dum Maro Dum”. Her versatile range spans the soulful ghazal “Dil Cheez Kya Hai” to playful classics like “Chura Liya Hai Tumne” and the timeless dance anthem “Yeh Mera Dil”. (ANI)

Keralam health minister Veena George on Monday termed the death of RL Nithin Raj, a student of Ancharakandy Dental College in Kannur district, as “shocking and deeply painful” and assured that strict legal action will be taken against those responsible.

“Alongside the police investigation, the Keralam University of Health Sciences has also initiated an inquiry committee. All necessary legal action will be firmly ensured,” George said.

“The depth of grief and loss faced by the family is immense. Caste-based abuse and harassment must not be allowed in campuses or anywhere in Kerala under any circumstances,” the minister said in a post on social media.

Alleging lapses in the police investigation, activists of the Keralam Students Union (KSU) today organised a protest march to the Anjarakandy Dental College. Visuals from the campus showed KSU activists who staged a sit-in protest being forcibly removed by the police.

Congress MP K Suresh termed the incident as an “institutional murder.”

“The suicide of BDS student Nithin Raj at a private medical college in Kannur is a serious matter. It is an institutional murder. The harassment and caste-based discrimination faced by a Dalit student in Keralam have tarnished the dignity of the state. This incident is a challenge to the Constitution,” the Congress leader said.

According to police, the BDS student was found critically injured near the medical college block after falling from the building on the afternoon of April 10 in a case of suspected suicide. Though he was rushed to the medical college hospital and given treatment, he later succumbed to his injuries.

As per information given by the Public Relations Department of the Keralam Government, the Chakkarakkal police have registered a case and added charges of abetment to suicide under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and invoked provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in the existing FIR.

The FIR was lodged based on the complaint given by the father of the deceased.

A special investigation team (SIT) headed by Kannur Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Hari Prasad has been formed to conduct a detailed investigation.

The Kannur Police said there could be a possible link to a loan app as the deceased had availed a loan from a mobile application during the December-January period and had since been receiving repeated calls from the lenders. The loan agency had also contacted a teacher at his college regarding the repayment, and the teacher reportedly received multiple calls in connection with the dues.

Additionally, there are voice recordings attributed to Nithin Raj, which he sent to his friends, in which he alleges casteist abuse, humiliation, and threats by a faculty member.

Another FIR has been registered at the Cyber Police Station.

The Keralam State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) on April 12 directed the Kannur City Police Commissioner P Nidhinraj to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations raised by the family of Nithin Raj, a native of Uzhamalackal in Thiruvananthapuram, on his death and submit a detailed report within a week.

SHRC Judicial Member K Baijunath registered a suo motu case in the matter based on media reports, citing the gravity of the allegations.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor had on Sunday in a X post said that “Audio recordings now reveal what his family has long alleged — relentless verbal abuse, casteist slurs, threats, and deliberate academic sabotage by faculty. A bright young life, extinguished by a toxic campus.”

Tharoor said the death is “chillingly reminiscent of the death of Sidharthan, another young student from Thiruvananthapuram.” “I had visited his grieving family after his tragic passing. In his case, it was student goons who drove him to his end, while a callous management looked the other way. Different perpetrators, same criminal institutional failure,” he said.

“Nithin’s family alleges he was mocked for his caste, his skin colour, his financial background. His internal marks were allegedly slashed as punishment. His mother’s surgery was ridiculed in class. And when he finally dared to stand up for himself, a system that should have protected him failed him catastrophically,” Tharoor detailed.

According to reports, two teachers of the medical college in Kannur have been suspended and an inquiry ordered.

Tharror in his post said, “The suspension of two faculty members is a start — but nowhere near enough. I demand a thorough criminal investigation and full accountability across the college administration.” (ANI)