Maharashtra Was Epicentre Of Anti-Muslim Rioting In 2024, “Cow Belt” The Second – CSSS Report
New Age Islam News Bureau
26January 2025
Location of Maharashtra in India. Credit: Wikipedia Commons
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• Maharashtra Was Epicentre Of Anti-Muslim Rioting In 2024, “Cow Belt” The Second – CSSS Report
• Islamic Arts Biennale With Islamic Arts From Over 30 Prestigious Institutions The World Over Opens In Saudi Arabia
• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Warns Of Potential ‘Bin Laden-Level’ Bounty On Taliban Leaders
• Won't Allow Sheikh Hasina's Awami League In Bangladesh Polls: Yunus' Aide
• Unacceptable To Use Grooming Gang Scandal To Smear All Muslims – UK’s Major Muslim Organisations
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India
• Uttar Pradesh CM YogiAdityanath: Muslim Leaders Should Hand Over Varanasi, Mathura, Sambhal Disputed Sites To Hindus
• Twist In Saif Stabbing Case? Accused's Fingerprints Do Not Match With Those At Actor's House: Report
• 'Rs 25 lakh in 4 hours': Saif Ali Khan's cashless treatment raises brows
• Govt honours GK Executive Editor Arif Shafi Wani with State Award as ‘Outstanding Environmentalist’
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Arab World
• Rare Vatican artifacts on show at Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
• Saudi minister emphasizes Islamic unity at Khair Ummah conference in Bangkok
• Italian Prime Minister Meloni begins official visit to Saudi Arabia
• Saudi and French artists strengthen cultural ties through art
• Diriyah Storytelling Festival to celebrate literature, creativity
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North America
• Donald Trump Calls On Jordan And Egypt To Accept Palestinian Refugees To 'Clean-Out' Gaza
• JD Vance breaks tie to confirm Pete Hegseth as defence secretary
• Donald Trump lifts Biden's hold, approves 2,000-pound bomb shipment to Israel
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South Asia
• Afghanistan’s Envoy In France: Taliban Halts Consular Services In Bid For Embassy Control
• Flights for over 40,000 Afghan citizens to US put on hold: Reuters
• Police: Three from Bangladesh detained in Rajkot for staying illegally
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Europe
• Seven Mosques And Schools Vandalised With Islamophobic Graffiti In London
• The four factors which could drive a recession in the UK - and if it could hit
• Musk urges Germans to ‘stop focusing on past guilt’ as tens of thousands take to streets to protest far-right AfD
• Slain tattoo artist’s family angry at killer’s appeal bid: ‘In an ideal world he would get the death penalty’
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Pakistan
• 30 Terrorists Killed, 8 Hurt In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Operations: ISPR
• ‘Pakistan must continue to preserve and strengthen its nuclear capability’
• Pakistan Navy talks growing maritime partnership with Iran ahead of AMAN-25 exercise
• PTI files plea against 26th Amendment
• Imran alleges flaws, bias in £190m graft case verdict
• Mediation dubbed solution to prolonged litigation, Justice Shah tells LHC Bar
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Mideast
• Iran’s Supreme Leader Forced To Wear Flak Jacket As Fears Of Existential Threat Grow
• Is Hamas planning something big after ceasefire with Israel? US on alert over Iran’s…
• Trump says Iran deal would be 'really nice', bucking comments from hawks
• Gandhi Peace Prize awarded to Iran for advocacy of Palestinian rights
• Iraq, Iran exchange remains of Gulf War soldiers
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Southeast Asia
• Filipino Palace Declares January 27 A Muslim Holiday For Isra Wal Mi'raj, Ascension Of The Prophet Muhammad
• King, PM Anwar spend rainy Sunday morning with breakfast at NasiLemakBurungHantu
• Prabowo’s state visit to Malaysia set to boost bilateral relations and Asean stability, envoy says
• As Malaysia Hosts China’s First CNY Celebration Abroad, PM Anwar Affirms Strong Bilateral Ties
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Africa
• Drone attack on hospital kills 67 in Sudan's Darfur
• Tinubu has proven us wrong on Muslim-Muslim ticket —Northern CAN
• K1 De Ultimate stands firm, refuses to apologise for comments on Islamic clerics
• Yusuf, Shettima celebrate Tijjaniyya’s role in fostering peace among Muslims
• Agege mosque shut down over leadership crisis
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/maharashtra-muslim-rioting-epicentre/d/134436
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Maharashtra Was Epicentre Of Anti-Muslim Rioting In 2024, “Cow Belt” The Second – CSSS Report
By P. K. Balachandran
January 26, 2025
Location of Maharashtra in India. Credit: Wikipedia Commons
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India’s Western States, particularly Maharashtra, had emerged as the “epicentre” of communal rioting in India in 2024, according to an all-India study done by the Mumbai-based Centre for Study of Society and Secularism (CSSS).
India, as whole, witnessed 59 communal riots in 2024, a significant rise compared to 32 riots in 2023, an 84% increase. These incidents resulted in 13 deaths—10 Muslims and 3 Hindus, the study states.
The “cow belt” comprising Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and others like Gujarat and Bihar, saw a higher number of communal riots along with Maharashtra. But, as per tradition, the southern states of India reported a far lesser number of communal riots. The same is the case with the state of West Bengal. There has been no change in this regional pattern.
Since 2022, there had been a spike in communal riots in Maharashtra, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. In 2024, Maharashtra had 12 riots, Gujarat 5, Madhya Pradesh 5, and Rajasthan 3. With 25 communal riots, these states accounted for 42% of the total cases of communal rioting in 2024.
Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana reported 13 communal riots – 22% of the total. Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Odisha, saw 13 riots or 22% of the total cases.
Karnataka and Telangana in the South reported seven communal riots constituting 12% of the total. The North Eastern region reported only one riot, and that was in Tripura. However, Manipur had been having continuous ethnic and religious rioting. But this was not Hindu-Muslim rioting. In India the term communal rioting applies only to Hindu-Muslim riots. Most communal riots are between Hindus and-Muslims.
The CSSS’s study was based on reports from prominent newspapers- the Mumbai editions of The Times of India, The Hindu, Indian Express, Sahafat (Urdu), and Inquilab (Urdu).
Most communal riots were triggered during religious festivals, especially religious processions. There were four riots during the Pran Pratishthan ceremony at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya in January, seven during Saraswati Puja idol immersion ceremonies, four during Ganesh festivals, and two during Bakr Eid.
The spike in the number of communal riots in India in 2024 may be partly attributed to the general elections that were held in April/ May, 2024. Similarly, riots occurred when important States held assembly elections. Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand had elections in 2024. Hate speeches with communal overtones were used to polarize communities on religious lines. But a part of the spike could be attributed to the ecosystem of impunity that was promoted by governments specially those of the Bharaiya Janata Party (BJP) ruled States.
Out of the 59 communal riots in 2024, 49 took place in States where the BJP was ruling either on its own, or in coalition with other parties. Coalition partners included Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) and National Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) in Maharashtra and Janata Dal in Bihar.
Seven out of 59 communal riots took place in States ruled by the Indian National Congress (INC) while three took place in West Bengal, where the Trinamool Congress was in power.
This data can be interpreted to mean that the BJP-ruled States took little or no action to deter communal violence and religious polarization. State authorities had used bulldozers to fatten houses or shops of Muslims as punishment for allegedly breaking the law. The non BJP ruled states had desisted from such actions and that deterred communal riots.
In the recent years, riots have been spontaneous events with no pre-planning, unlike in the past. According to the study, this is because anti-Muslim feeling is already embedded in communities and a small spark can trigger a riot. Even arguments on personal mundane issues between individuals from two different religious groups, had triggered riots.
Communal riots in 2024 were marked by the bold assertion of Hindu right-wing power in public spaces. Processions deliberately passed through Muslim-majority neighbourhoods with loud music and provocative slogans. Numerous right-wing Hindu groups were emerging at the grassroots level, and to gain popularity and influence, they organized processions or protests in front of mosques and in Muslim neighbourhoods, aiming to provoke or humiliate the community.
Recent communal riots point to three trends, the study says. The first is the domination or hegemony of public spaces by Hindu right-wing groups. The second is implication of Muslims in serious criminal cases, and the third a trend of meting out collective punishment to Muslims by the demolition of their properties, like houses and mosques.
Domination involves provoking and humiliating the Muslim community by Hindu right-wing groups. Retaliation from the Muslim community was used as a pretext to disproportionately arrest Muslims or invoke the severest provisions of the law. Even when Hindu right-wing groups marched aggressively in Muslim-majority areas and vandalized their property, a large number of Muslims were named by the police. These were charged with serious offenses, and investigations were handed over to the National Investigating Agency (NIA), linking them to terrorism.
In January in Mumbai, government demolished 15 properties belonging to Muslims in Haidary Chowk on Mira Road after communal riots took place. In Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, known for arbitrary demolitions, the state demolished 11 houses of Muslims after communal riots took place during Muharram procession on 18th July.
The year 2024 witnessed six communal riots over places of worship, triggered by Hindu right-wing fringe groups alleging that the mosques and dargahs were illegal or that they were built on Hindu place of worship. The total number of lives lost in such cases was ten (nine of Muslims and one Hindu). Nearly all the arrested were Muslims.It is notable that most of these conflicts were in the Northern states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.
India witnessed 13 incidents of mob lynching in 2024. These ncidents resulted in 11 deaths: one Hindu, one Christian, and nine Muslims. This is a decline from 21 incidents of mob lynching recorded in the year 2023. But the persistence of such attacks remains a concern. The decline in the number of incidents of mob lynching may be attributed to a ruling of the Supreme Court on this matter.
MOther cases of lynching had to do with accusations of interfaith relationships, targeting Muslims. Maharashtra accounted for three lynching cases long with Uttar Pradesh. Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, and Haryana each reported two incidents. Karnataka recorded one.
Seven out of thirteen, that is over 50% of the cases, could be attributed to cow slaughter. On June 7, 2024, Chand Miyan (23) and Guddu Khan (35) from Uttar Pradesh were lynched by cow vigilantes near the temple town Arang, in Chhattisgarh, while transporting buffaloes. Saddam Qureshi, the third victim, survived with critical injuries.
On August 28, 2024, Munyar boarded a train from Chalisgaon in Jalgaon district to visit his daughter who lives in Kalyan. Munyar was travelling alone in a general compartment where over a dozen men began to harass him. The goons slapped and kicked him on his face constantly, asking him to show what he was carrying in his bag. Munyar was begging with folded hands to spare him as the assaulters threatened to call the Bajrang Dal to chop his body into pieces. The police filed a case but it didn’t include section 307- attempt to murder.
Accusations of interfaith romance or relationships, termed as ‘love jihad’ has been used to foment communal tensions and target people. A 19 year old Muslim student of Savitribai Phule Pune University was attacked by five persons who accused the student of “love jihad”. According to the police, the attack took place on 8th April when the male student was accompanying two female students on the campus. They started questioning the student and asked him to show his Aadhaar card. Upon seeing the student’s Muslim man, the assailants attacked him. The police registered FIR against unidentified persons.
Source: Www.Eurasiareview.Com
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Islamic Arts Biennale With Islamic Arts From Over 30 Prestigious Institutions The World OverOpens In Saudi Arabia
by Vandana Kalra
January 26, 2025
The largest known inlaid Mamluk brass bowl, 1351-54 CE. (Express Photo)
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Inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, the canopied roofs of the Western Hajj Terminal at the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah might have accommodated thousands of pilgrims on their voyage to Hajj and Umrah, since it opened in the 1980s, but recently, it has been turned into a cultural site for Islamic arts.
Venue for the 4-month-long Islamic Arts Biennale, which opened on January 25, spread over one lakh square metre space are artefacts and objects of Islamic arts from over 30 prestigious institutions the world over: the Louvre Museum in Paris to Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Vatican Apostolic Library in Vatican City, and from across Saudi Arabia, including the King Abdulaziz Complex for Endowment Libraries in Madinah and objects from Makkah and Madinah. Though several artefacts with origins in India in the display, the sole Indian institution is the Jagdish and Kamla Mittal Museum of Indian Art from Hyderabad.
“This is the world’s only biennale dedicated to the arts of the Islamic civilisation, both historic and contemporary,” noted Aya Al-Bakree, CEO, Diriyah Biennale Foundation (DBF) that organises the exhibition. She said the programming intends to cement the Biennale as a global platform for cultural exchange and a reference point for new research in the field. The DBF is chaired by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Culture Prince Badr Bin Abdullah Bin Farhan Al Saud. The event recorded a footfall of over six lakh visitors in its first edition in 2023. The organisers believe that the numbers will multiply with this edition. So as viewers began trooping in on the inaugural day, several encountered the artistic directors: Amin Jaffer, director of The Al Thani Collection; Julian Raby, former lecturer in Islamic art and architecture at the University of Oxford and former director of National Museum of Asian Art at the Smithsonian Institution; and author and historian Abdul Rahman Azzam. Saudi artist MuhannadShono, who represented the country at the 2022 Venice Biennale, is the contemporary art curator, also responsible for new commissions, bringing together artists such as France-born Louis Guillaume, Imran Qureshi from Pakistan, and Asim Waqif from India, among others.
Coming together under the umbrella of the overarching theme “And All That Is In Between”, inspired by a recurring verse in the Quran, the display is neatly divided into seven broad components, with the commencement made with Al Bidaya (The Beginning) that invites viewers to contemplate the sacred through artefacts from Makkah and Madina, including the first-ever display of the full Kiswah — the sacred cloth that drapes the Kaaba — outside Makkah. Also on view, among others, is a staircase with baroque-inspired motifs gifted to the Kaaba by Nawab Muhammad Munawwar Khan Bahadur of Arcot in the 1820s.
The chapter AlMadar (The Orbit) presents objects of Islamic arts representing celestial navigation, mapping of oceans and rivers, and mathematical calculations in Muslim cultures. The many firsts in the gallery include a 1221 CE astrolabe with the oldest complete geared mechanism in the world.
If under AlMathala (The Canopy) artists have created commissioned works in the outdoors to respond to the theme of the garden in Islamic civilisation, the section AlMuqtani (Homage) displays works of Islamic art from the private collections of Sheikh Hamad bin Abdullah Al Thani and Rifaat Sheikh El Ard.
Housed in adjacent buildings are sections dedicated to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Suspended from the high-walled ceilings here are 1861 CE metal-thread embroidered curtains for the Hujrah screen, and 16th century CE candlesticks that once adorned the Prophet’s house in Madinah, including some with the wax still present. The glimpse into the past extends to the earliest documentary on Hajj. Shot by Georgio Eduardo Alberto Krugers, a cameraperson and director in the Dutch East Indies, the 1928 film follows the Hajj journey of Indonesian pilgrims from their departure from TanjungPriok in North Jakarta to the conclusion of their journey in the Haramain.
The end also gives directions for new beginnings, as tradition meets contemporary in a Musalla designed as a communal and modular space for prayer by the winners of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize it also proposes a more sustainable future, with the contemplations extending to an ecological approach with its use of waste from local date palm trees and textiles treated with natural dyes.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Warns Of Potential ‘Bin Laden-Level’ Bounty On Taliban Leaders
by Siyar Sirat
26-01-2026
WASHINGTON — Secretary of State Marco Rubio, just four days into his tenure, issued a pointed warning to the Taliban, suggesting that the United States may impose a bounty on their senior leadership exceeding the one placed on Osama bin Laden.
“Just hearing the Taliban is holding more American hostages than has been reported. If this is true, we will have to immediately place a VERY BIG bounty on their top leaders, maybe even bigger than the one we had on Bin Laden,” Rubio wrote on X.
The remarks follow reports that the Taliban are holding more American citizens in Afghanistan. While official U.S. accounts have previously mentioned three detainees — Ryan Corbett, Golzman, and Mahmood Shah Habibi — emerging information suggests the actual number could be higher, possibly up to seven.
Taliban have denied imprisoning Habibi, though a relative claimed in an interview with Amu TV that he was handed over to al-Qaeda. This allegation has not been independently verified.
Corbett and McKenty were released from Taliban custody in a prisoner exchange in the first days of Trump’s administration last week. The two were swapped for Khan Mohammad, a Taliban figure held by U.S. forces for nearly two decades. Mohammad, captured in Nangarhar Province, had been convicted on terrorism and drug trafficking charges and was serving a life sentence in the United States before his release.
Source: Amu.Tv
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Won't allow Sheikh Hasina's Awami League in Bangladesh polls: Yunus' aide
Jan 26, 2025
DHAKA: Bangladesh's deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League would not be allowed to participate in elections, a key adviser of Muhammad Yunus' interim govt said on Saturday.
"The elections will be contested among pro-Bangladesh groups only," said Mahfuz Alam, a top leader of the Anti-Discrimination Movement, which spearheaded the mass uprising that toppled Hasina's Awami League regime and forced her to flee the country on Aug 5 last year.
Addressing a street rally at central Chandpur district, Alam said only former prime minister Khaleda Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Jamaat-e-Islam and other "pro-Bangladesh" groups would carry on their politics in the country. He added that either of these "will establish future governance through a fair electoral process".
"But Awami League's rehabilitation will not be allowed in this country," said Alam, a de facto minister without portfolio. Alam said no election would take place until "minimum reforms" were implemented and institutions, allegedly destroyed by the "fascist Hasina govt," were restructured.
Source: Www.India.Com
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Unacceptable To Use Grooming Gang Scandal To Smear All Muslims – UK’s Major Muslim Organisations
January 25, 2025
THE MUSLIM COUNCIL OF BRITAIN HAS ELECTED A NEW LEADER (ALAMY/PA)
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Using the issue of grooming gangs to misrepresent an entire faith is unacceptable, the newly elected leader of one of the UK’s major Muslim organisations has said.
The organisation, established in 1998, describes itself as the UK’s largest Muslim umbrella organisation, with more than 500 members, but successive political administrations have followed a policy of non-engagement.
They were restored the following year after the MCB stated its opposition to violence, but more recently both the Conservative and Labour administrations have refused any official engagement.
In his manifesto, Dr Akhter noted that international Muslim groups with which he was in contact during the pandemic did not know about the “fact that the Government did not speak to us”.
He has vowed to “transform the structure, strategy, funding and culture” of the MCB, and for the organisation to be a “unifying force” in the Muslim community.
In his inaugural address, Dr Akhter spoke about the issues facing British Muslims, including recent spikes in Islamophobia on social media.
“We must sidestep the culture wars that force us into a corner and label everyone who criticises us as racist or Islamophobic,” he said.
“But using the heinous acts of a few to misrepresent an entire faith and an ethnicity is also unacceptable. We will act against both injustices.”
He had faced a vote on Saturday against Dr Muhammad Adrees to become the new secretary-general, and both men had been criticised in a think tank report for some of their previously aired views.
In a letter published in the Telegraph, in response to the contents of the Policy Exchange report, he wrote: “Being British is a cultural and national identity while being Muslim is a matter of faith – these are not mutually exclusive, nor are they in conflict.”
The same think tank report said Dr Adrees, a consultant physician in the NHS, had voiced support for the regime in Iran, but he said he does “not endorse the Iranian state regime nor do I have any affiliation with them”.
Outgoing secretary-general Zara Mohammed made history when she was chosen to lead the MCB in 2021, becoming the first woman and youngest person to take on the role, at the age of just 29.
Labour minister Alex Norris confirmed to Parliament in August that the Government’s policy not to engage remained unchanged and that there were no plans for ministers to meet the MCB.
They said: “The Government engages regularly with faith communities to foster strong working relationships and we are exploring a more integrated and cohesive approach to tackling racial and religious hatred, including Islamophobia.
Source: Www.Atandard.Co.Uk
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India
Uttar Pradesh CM YogiAdityanath: Muslim Leaders Should Hand Over Varanasi, Mathura, Sambhal Disputed Sites To Hindus
By: Nivedita Dash
Jan 26, 2025
Prayagraj, UP: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has appealed to Muslim leaders to "show large-heartedness and hand over the disputed sites in Varanasi, Mathura, and Sambhal to the Hindu community."
At the 'Pranaam India' special show at the Mahakumbh Mela site in Prayagraj, Yogi Adityanath was asked why he did not accept the offer of Muslim leaders who wanted to give their Waqf land for holding the Mahakumbh.
The Chief Minister replied, "We are already organising the Mahakumbh. We do not need their large-heartedness (dariyadili) in Prayagraj. Muslim leaders should show their large-heartedness in handing over the disputed sites in Varanasi, Mathura, and Sambhal to the Hindus".
The Gyanvapi Masjid in Varanasi, Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura, and the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, said to have been built after demolishing the Shri Hari Vishnu temple, are contentious issues presently before different law courts.
Asked why the ASI survey of the mosque in Sambhal was done in a hurry, Yogi replied, "Shubh kaaryameinderinahinhonichahiye (There should be no delay while doing an auspicious work). During excavations, old wells and forts have been found. Apart from Hindu puranas (scriptures), even the Ain-i-Akbari written by Mughal emperor Akbar's court chronicler Abul Fazal mentions there was a Hari Mandal temple in Sambhal, which was a Vishnu temple."
Source: Www.Indiatvnews.Com
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Twist In Saif Stabbing Case? Accused's Fingerprints Do Not Match With Those At Actor's House: Report
By :AsheshMallick
January 26, 2025
In a massive development in the Saif Ali Khan’s attack case, the fingerprints found at the actor’s residence do not match the samples of Shariful Islam Shehzad, a Bangladeshi national who was arrested for allegedly attacking Saif at his residence on January 16, according to a report.
The revelation was made by the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) which submitted negative reports on the fingerprint samples of Shariful, giving a setback to the Mumbai Police amid buzz on social media that the wrong individual has been arrested, mid-day reported.
Shariful was nabbed from Thane after a massive 3-day manhunt by the Mumbai Police and Crime Branch whose around 40 teams were assigned the job.
Source: Www.News18.Com
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'Rs 25 lakh in 4 hours': Saif Ali Khan's cashless treatment raises brows
Jan 26, 2025
MUMBAI: The 14,000-member Association of Medical Consultants (AMC) wrote to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) to complain about the "quick" sanction of Rs 25 lakh for cashless treatment of actor Saif Ali Khan at Lilavati Hospital, Bandra, last week.
This showed "preferential treatment" for a celebrity when compared to the benefits available to common policyholders, said the AMC letter.
A senior surgeon claimed that the sanction of Rs 25 lakh for Khan's cashless claim came within four hours of the hospital applying for it. "Such a huge sanction and at that speed are rarely seen in the healthcare industry," said the doctor, adding that most individual policyholders would get an initial sanction of Rs 50,000. Another doctor said insurance clearances take a long time in medico-legal cases. "The ‘delay, deny and deduct' complaint against US insurance companies holds true here as well," he said.
Khan's insurance claim, according to the AMC letter, "highlights a troubling trend where celebrities and high-profile individuals and patients with corporate policies receive favourable terms and higher cashless treatment limits, while ordinary citizens struggle with insufficient coverage and low reimbursement rates." Such practices create an unfair disparity and undermine principle of equitable healthcare access, it said.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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Govt honours GK Executive Editor Arif Shafi Wani with State Award as ‘Outstanding Environmentalist’
January 26, 2025
Srinagar, Jan 26: Arif Shafi Wani, the Executive Editor of Greater Kashmir—the leading English Daily of Jammu and Kashmir, has been awarded the prestigious State Award as Outstanding Environmentalist by the Jammu and Kashmir Government on the occasion of Republic Day.
Arif has been working with Greater Kashmir for the past over two decades. He has done Masters in Mass Communication and Journalism from Media Education Research Centre (MERC) Kashmir University. He has also done Bachelors in Commerce. He specialises in covering environment issues confronting Jammu and Kashmir. He is an alumni of Tyndale Biscoe School.
He is the first journalist in Kashmir to launch a sustained campaign for over a decade on conservation of Dal Lake and other water bodies in Kashmir which have been marred by extensive pollution and encroachment. He has extensively highlighted impacts of climate change besides factors contributing to rapid melting of glaciers, deterioration of wetlands, vandalisation of karewas and illegal riverbed mining.
Source: Www.Greaterkashmir.Com
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Arab World
Rare Vatican artifacts on show at Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
Jasmine Bager
January 25, 2025
JEDDAH: A six-meter map of the Nile believed to be more than 300 years old has left its home in the Vatican archives for the first time to become the centerpiece of the second Islamic Arts Biennale launched in Jeddah on Saturday.
Visitors to Jeddah’s Western Hajj Terminal, the biennale venue, can see the map along with 10 other artifacts from the Vatican Library.
The historic chart, drawn with watercolor ink on Venetian paper and depicting historic sites along the Nile, has been dated to around 1685.
The map underwent restoration by the Vatican before making the journey to Jeddah. It is displayed alongside a sister map of the Arabian Gulf from the National Library of Qatar.
Both maps are believed to have been acquired in the 1700s in Constantinople by Giuseppe Alemanni, a Lebanese librarian who later became the Vatican Library’s prefect.
Zani attended the biennale’s opening ceremony and later told Arab News that the artifacts highlight a rich history of cultural exchange and shared knowledge.
The 2025 biennale’s theme, “And all that is in between,” draws from the Qur’anic verse “And God created the Heavens and the Earth and all that is in between.”
The Vatican Library is also showcasing several works from its collections in “The Art of Numbers” display at Al-Madar section of the biennale.
The section examines the role of numbers in collective history, exploring their origins in natural calculations and applications across Islamic culture, mathematics, architecture, music, design, celestial and terrestrial mapping, ocean navigation, trade and geometric patterns in Qur’anic decoration.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2587819/saudi-arabia
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Saudi minister emphasizes Islamic unity at Khair Ummah conference in Bangkok
Arab News
January 25, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Islamic Minister Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh inaugurated the third Khair Ummah conference of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Bangkok on Saturday.
The event was attended by Thai National Assembly President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, along with several ministers, muftis, and leaders of Islamic universities, centers, and associations.
Al-Asheikh emphasized that the conference aimed to strengthen Islamic unity and adherence to the truth, promoting solidarity that upholds Islamic identity, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
“This situation calls for a real response from scholars and researchers to clarify the right religious stance against sedition and to reinforce the core principles of the Islamic faith,” Al-Asheikh said.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2587803/saudi-arabia
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Italian Prime Minister Meloni begins official visit to Saudi Arabia
Arab News
January 25, 2025
JEDDAH: Italian Prime Minister GiorgiaMeloni began an official visit to Saudi Arabia on Saturday.
Meloni arrived in Jeddah where she was met at the airport by the Deputy Governor of Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz among other officials, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Saudi Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman met with Italy’s Minister of Energy and Environment Gilberto PichettoFratinon on Jan. 14 to sign the memorandum of understanding.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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Saudi and French artists strengthen cultural ties through art
Afhsan Aziz
January 25, 2025
JEDDAH: The Consulate General of France in Jeddah recently hosted a reception at the French Residence to celebrate friendship and cultural collaboration between Saudi and French artists.
The event coincided with the opening week of the second Islamic Arts Biennale. Esteemed guests included Jack Lang, president of the Institut du Monde Arabe (The Arab World Institute) and former French minister of culture, along with artists and key partners involved in the biennale.
The consul general of France in Jeddah, Mohammed Nehad, spoke to Arab News about the importance of the biennale as a cornerstone of cultural collaboration: “The Biennale of Islamic Art is a pivotal moment for France. We are deeply committed to building bridges between Saudi and French artists. This event allows us to bring these creative minds together, fostering a unique dialogue.
“With the participation of Mr. Lang, a cultural visionary, and renowned institutions like the Louvre and Centre Pompidou present, this gathering underscores our dedication to expanding cooperation.”
He also highlighted initiatives, including plans to organize a major exhibition in Paris dedicated to Al-Balad, Jeddah’s historic district.
“It’s our dream to showcase the rich heritage of Al-Balad in Paris,” he said. “We’ve already hosted Saudi artists in France, with some present during this biennale, and facilitated French artists’ residencies in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the Asir region. This cultural exchange enriches both nations and strengthens the bond between us.”
Speaking further on the cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia, Nehad added: “I am inspired by the energy and creativity of Saudi artists, and encouraged by the progress made. Having served in Saudi Arabia during different terms, I’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation, with institutions and artists now more connected globally. It’s an honor to support and be part of this incredible cultural renaissance.”
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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Diriyah Storytelling Festival to celebrate literature, creativity
Arab News
January 25, 2025
RIYADH: The Diriyah Storytelling Festival, a vibrant event for literature lovers, will begin on Jan. 30.
The event will take place across three key locations in Diriyah: Bujairi Terrace, Bab Samhan Hotel and Al-Dhawihra Farm, offering distinctive experiences.
The festival provides opportunities to interact with experts and explore the art of storytelling through exhibitions, storytelling nights and discussion sessions.
Workshops will cover topics such as writing, storytelling, music production, screen design, book cover creation and adapting novels into animated series, films or dramas.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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North America
Donald Trump calls on Jordan and Egypt to accept Palestinian refugees to 'clean-out' Gaza
Jan 26, 2025
US President Trump pushed for increased acceptance of Palestinian refugees from Gaza by Arab nations, including Jordan and Egypt, so that they can "clean out" war-torn area of Gaza.
During a 20-minute question-and-answer session on Saturday with reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump revealed that he discussed this vision with King Abdullah II of Jordan earlier in the day and plans to speak with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi on Sunday. "I'd like him to take people. I'd like Egypt to take people," said Trump. "You're talking about, probably a million and a half people, and we just clean out that whole thing and say, 'You know it's, over'."
Trump mentioned that he complimented Jordan for successfully accepting Palestinian refugees and told the king, "I'd love for you to take on more, cause I'm looking at the whole Gaza Strip right now, and it's a mess. It's a real mess."
He added that such a mass movement of Palestinians "could be temporary or long term," noting that the area encompassing Gaza has experienced "many, many conflicts" over centuries.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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JD Vance breaks tie to confirm Pete Hegseth as defense secretary
Jan 26, 2025
WASHINGTON: The US Senate narrowly confirmed Pete Hegseth as defense secretary on Friday after he survived a bruising struggle with Democrats who decried the Trump nominee as unqualified and unfit to oversee the country's 1.3 million active duty troops and the Pentagon's nearly $850 billion budget.
Vice President JD Vance had to cast a tiebreaking vote to confirm Hegseth, after three Republicans - senators Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky - joined all Democrats in opposition. The final vote, 51-50, was the smallest margin for a defense secretary's confirmation since the position was created in 1947.
Hegseth, a military veteran and former Fox News host, has vowed to bring his self-described "warrior" ethos to the defense department, which he says has been made weak by "woke" generals and diversity programmes. Republican leaders embraced that outlook as they cheered his confirmation. "Peace through strength is back under President Trump and Hegseth," said senator Roger Wicker.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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Donald Trump lifts Biden's hold, approves 2,000-pound bomb shipment to Israel
Jan 26, 2025
US President Donald Trump lifted the restrictions imposed by former President Joe Biden on sending 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, removing a measure aimed at reducing civilian casualties during Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Trump on Saturday posted on Truth Social, stating that, "A lot of things that were ordered and paid for by Israel, but have not been sent by Biden, are now on their way!"
Speaking about the bombs on Air Force One, Trump stated, "They've been waiting for them for a long time. You know, they've been in storage for a long time and we released them today to Israel."
Biden had delayed the delivery of these large bombs in May to prevent Israel from carrying out a full-scale assault on Rafah, a city in southern Gaza, the Associated Press reported.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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South Asia
Afghanistan’s Envoy in France: Taliban halts consular services in bid for Embassy control
By Fidel Rahmati
January 26, 2025
Homayoun Azizi, Afghanistan’s ambassador to France, stated that the Taliban are attempting to pressure the embassy by cutting consular services in their bid to gain control of it.
In an interview with the voice of Azadi, Azizi criticized the Taliban for using the challenges faced by Afghan refugees abroad as a “political tool.” He emphasized that consular services are a fundamental right for citizens and should not be tied to political ideologies.
Azizi added that the Taliban do not recognize consular services provided by the Afghan embassy in France. He explained that the group uses such tactics as leverage to push for the acceptance of their authority.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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Flights for over 40,000 Afghan citizens to US put on hold: Reuters
By Fidel Rahmati
January 26, 2025
Trump mandated a 90-day suspension of U.S. foreign aid, impacting humanitarian efforts and delaying the evacuation of Afghan nationals who worked with the U.S. government during the 20-year war.
The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) reported that since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, the U.S. has provided around $21 billion to Afghanistan, covering humanitarian aid, refugee resettlement, and frozen asset repayments.
Shawn VanDiver, a veteran assisting in Afghan refugee evacuations, stated he believes the suspension of flights was an unintentional mistake, expressing hope for visa exemptions for eligible Afghans.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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Police: Three from Bangladesh detained in Rajkot for staying illegally
January 26, 2025
Three Bangladesh nationals were detained in Rajkot for allegedly staying in India illegally, a police official said on Saturday.
Two persons were detained from a rented accommodation in Rangpar on a tip-off by the Rajkot police’s special operations group (SOG) on Friday, while a woman was detained on Saturday for helping the duo, he said.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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Europe
Seven mosques and schools vandalised with Islamophobic graffiti in London
Josh Salisbury
26-01-2025
Anti-Muslim graffiti has been daubed on seven London buildings this month, including mosques, schools and community centres.
Police said they were treating the incidents, which occurred between January 6 and January 23 at locations in east and south London, as hate crimes.
Officers said they were investigating whether the incidents are linked by scanning CCTV amid reports they were being fuelled by an anti-Muslim group online offering £100 for the graffiti attacks.
Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell, who is in charge of policing London this weekend, said: “We understand that Muslim communities will be feeling particularly concerned for their safety following this series of shocking hate crimes.
Source: Www.Standard.Co.Uk
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The four factors which could drive a recession in the UK - and if it could hit
Christian Oliver
January 26, 2025
The UK economy has barely grown in almost a year and remains smaller than in March, Government borrowing costs have risen to their highest level since 2008, and it appears “stagflation” may resurface despite Government plans to boost growth and tackle inflation.
Labour’s economic plan has got off to a rocky start, with the prospect of official figures next month showing little to no growth in its first six months of government.
The Bank of England has also pencilled in no growth again for the fourth quarter, following zero expansion in the previous three months.
While November’s data showed a return to growth for the first time since August, the UK’s gross domestic product (GDP) staggered to a level which offered little respite to Chancellor Rachel Reeves when the figures were announced earlier this month.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimated the UK economy grew in November by 0.1 per cent after falling by 0.1 per cent in both September and October.
But November’s paltry growth means the economy would need to expand by at least 0.1 per cent when December’s figures are released just to avoid contracting overall in the final quarter of the year.
Source: Inews.Co.Uk
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Musk urges Germans to ‘stop focusing on past guilt’ as tens of thousands take to streets to protest far-right AfD
By Josef Al Shemary
26 January 2025
Musk addressed 4,500 people at Germany’s Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) election campaign event in Halle in eastern Germany on Saturday, endorsing the party for the second time in two weeks.
Speaking via video link, he told the crowd to ‘be proud of German culture’ and ‘stop focusing on past guilt’, in an apparent reference to the Holocaust and WWII.
“It’s good to be proud of German culture, German values, and not to lose that in some sort of multiculturalism that dilutes everything,” Musk said.
The world’s richest man came under scrutiny on Monday, when he made a gesture that many compared to a Nazi salute at a Trump inauguration event.
Source: Www.Lbc.Co.Uk
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Slain tattoo artist’s family angry at killer’s appeal bid: ‘In an ideal world he would get the death penalty’
John Toner
26 January 2025
The grieving family of a “loving, gentle and talented” tattoo artist stabbed to death in public have spoken of their anger at his crazed killer’s appeal.
Aidan Mann (28) was chased down Church Street in Downpatrick and knifed 14 times by his neighbour Barry Donnelly (38) in January 2022.
Source: Www.Delfasttelegraph.Uk
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Pakistan
30 Terrorists Killed, 8 Hurt In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Operations: ISPR
Ibrahim Shinwari
January 26, 2025
PESHAWAR / KHYBER: A total of 30 terrorists, including two ringleaders, were killed and eight others injured in separate security operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Saturday, according to the military’s media wing.
In a separate development, four police personnel, who had been abducted from South Waziristan Upper three days ago, have been safely recovered.
A statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) read that security forces carried out an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in LakkiMarwat district on the reported presence of terrorists. The forces effectively engaged their location and killed 18 of them while six others were injured during the exchange of fire, it added.
The military’s media wing said that the third encounter took place in the Bagh area of Khyber. Security forces neutralised four terrorists, including their ringleaders Azizur Rehman alias Qari Ismail and Mukhlis. Their two accomplices were wounded in the operation.
They had remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area against the security forces as well as the killing of innocent civilians, the ISPR said.
“A sanitisation operation is being conducted to eliminate any other Khwarij found in the [Khyber] area, as the security forces are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country,” the ISPR stated.
Source: www.Dawn.Com
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‘Pakistan must continue to preserve and strengthen its nuclear capability’
Peerzada Salman
January 26, 2025
KARACHI: National Command Authority (NCA) Adviser retired Lieutenant General Khalid Ahmed Kidwai has stressed the need for preserving and strengthening the country’s nuclear capability.
Speaking at a seminar here on Saturday, he said when the former USSR collapsed, Ukraine gave up almost 2,000 nuclear weapons and the consequences are there for everyone to see. The lesson: “Pakistan must continue to preserve and strengthen its nuclear capability against all potential threats.”
He said while Pakistan’s nuclear deterrence capability has been a cornerstone of the country’s national security for the past many decades, of late it has assumed even greater significance in the challenging geopolitical and economic environment.
Giving an overview of the emerging strategic environment, he highlighted six important events that took place in the last six years in and around Pakistan in order to get a feel of the challenges that the country faces.
Gen Kidwai said the first event was the Balakot-Rajouri exchange of strategic airstrikes in 2019 between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), consequent to India’s aggressive politico-military posture. The two-day skirmish did not turn out too well for India. While the IAF failed to achieve its objective of striking the alleged terrorist camps in Balakot, the skirmish resulted in the downing of two IAF aircraft by the PAF and the capture of an IAF pilot, Wing Commander Abhinandan. It sent strong signals of deterrence to India. Pakistan’s nuclear deterrence worked, India’s irresponsible conduct as a nuclear power stood exposed before the world, he said.
Source: www.Dawn.Com
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Pakistan Navy talks growing maritime partnership with Iran ahead of AMAN-25 exercise
Politics
January 25, 2025
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Iranian news agency IRNA in Islamabad, Admiral Naveed Ashraf emphasized the long-standing and constructive relationship between Pakistan and Iran’s naval forces. He also indicated his eagerness to further expand and enhance this partnership.
During the official visit of General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, to Islamabad, Pakistan extended a formal invitation to Iran for the AMAN-25 exercise.
Admiral Ashraf noted that Pakistan values the contributions made by the Iranian Navy in fostering stronger regional maritime cooperation. “We have much to learn from each other’s maritime experiences. As we look ahead to AMAN-25, the Pakistan Navy is eager to engage in deeper collaboration with Iran, especially through more focused bilateral and multilateral exercises,” Admiral Ashraf stated.
“As neighboring nations, we share a strong bond, and our mutual stance on maritime threats and challenges remains unwavering,” he added.
Admiral Ashraf highlighted his visit to Iran in 2021 and the reciprocal visit by Iran's naval commander to Pakistan in the summer of 2023. “The current level of cooperation between our naval forces is commendable, and I am optimistic that it will continue to grow,” he said.
Source: Www.Tehrantimes.com
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PTI files plea against 26th Amendment
Nasir Iqbal
January 26, 2025
ISLAMABAD: As an eight-judge constitutional bench, headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan, is set to commence hearing of challenges to the 26th Amendment from Monday, the PTI also instituted a petition seeking court declaration that the amendment violates salient features of the Constitution and affects the judiciary’s independence.
Several petitioners, including high court bar associations, requested the Supreme Court to constitute a full court to hear the matter instead of the constitutional bench established under the 26th Amendment.
In it petition filed through Advocate Sameer Khosa, the PTI has pleaded that the process by which the amendment was enacted contravenes Articles 63A, 238 and 239 particularly due to the absence of a fully constituted parliament, illegal inclusion of votes of defecting members of parliament and procedural irregularities that undermined the legitimacy of its passage.
The court was requested to declare specifically Sections 7, 9 10, 12, 14, 17, 21 and 27 of the 26th Amendment unconstitutional and in direct conflict with salient features of the Constitution and therefore void ab initio.
Besides, the apex court was asked to declare both SC (Practice and Procedure) Act 2024 and SC (Number of Judges) (Amendment) Act 2024 unconstitutional, void ab initio and of no legal effect, as they originate from the unconstitutional tweak to achieve unconstitutional designs.
Likewise, the court was also asked to restrain the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) as reconstituted under the purportedly amended Article 175-A through the 26th Amendment from convening, undertaking any actions making appointments or exercising any authority conferred by the amendment.
Source: www.Dawn.Com
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Imran alleges flaws, bias in £190m graft case verdict
Malik Asad
January 26, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister Imran Khan has raised multiple objections to the verdict that convicted him in the £190 million corruption case, citing significant procedural flaws, mishandling of evidence and allegations of political victimisation by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).
The appeal calls for his conviction and 14-year sentence to be overturned, emphasising the lack of credible evidence and procedural lapses.
Mr Khan’s legal team, headed by Barrister Salman Safdar, highlighted critical points in the appeal, including the findings of the UK Court of Appeal’s judgement dated Nov 26, 2021.
The judgement, delivered by Lady Justice Nicola Davies, Lord Justice Nugee and Lord Justice Snowden, clarified that the funds at the centre of the controversy were neither proceeds of crime nor linked to any illegal activity.
Source: www.Dawn.Com
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Mediation dubbed solution to prolonged litigation, Justice Shah tells LHC Bar
January 26, 2025
LAHORE: Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, the senior puisne judge of the Supreme Court, on Saturday says the people who are fed up with prolonged litigation can find solution to their problems at the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) system.
“Arbitration and mediation should be encouraged as adopting such systems has become essential,” he asserted speaking at a conference on ADR organised at the Lahore High Court Bar Association.
Justice Shah said with the new ADR law, the traditional courts would step aside and alternative methods would have to be adopted to resolve the people’s issues. He highlighted that there were currently only 13 judges for a million people, which showed the judges shortage and the challenges inherent in the judicial system.
Source: www.Dawn.Com
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Mideast
Iran’s supreme leader forced to wear flak jacket as fears of existential threat grow
25 January 2025
Iran has ordered its proxy forces across the Middle East to exercise caution as the Islamic Republic fears an existential threat following Donald Trump’s return to the White House, The Telegraph has learned.
Commanders have also been instructed to maintain defensive positions while avoiding any actions that could be interpreted as aggressive by US forces or regional allies.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s 85-year-old supreme leader, even appeared to be wearing a flak jacket at the funeral of two judges who were gunned down in Tehran last weekend – reportedly over fear of attacks.
With his robes bulging at unusual angles, Khamenei was pictured this week standing over the coffins of the men said to have been assassinated inside the supreme court by an “infiltrator”.
“Forces and allies in the region have been instructed to act with caution as [the regime] feels an existential threat with Trump’s return,” one senior Iranian official told The Telegraph from Tehran.
“In Iraq and Yemen, forces have been told not to target any American assets, and if they do, they are explicitly warned against using Iranian weapons,” the official added.
The clerical regime has been significantly weakened by Israel’s attacks on Hezbollah and the fall of key ally Bashar al-Assad in Syria in recent months of war in the Middle East.
Its threat to Israel through Hamas and Hezbollah has been cut off, and it has also lost Syria as a weapons smuggling route for its proxies.
“The fall of Assad has intensified fears [in the regime],” the official said. “There are now fears they may not be able to hold onto the country after witnessing what happened to Assad, which no one here expected.”
Source: Www.Telegraph.Co.Uk
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Is Hamas planning something big after ceasefire with Israel? US on alert over Iran’s…
By Joy Pillai
January 26, 2025
Israel-Hamas War: After the ceasefire agreement, the 15-month-long war between Israel and Hamas seems to have come to an end, bringing a semblance of peace to West Asia. Following the agreement, Tel Aviv has begun releasing Hamas and Palestinian prisoners, while the militant group Hamas has reciprocated by freeing Israeli hostages. Amid all this, a shocking revelation from a United States intelligence report has cast doubts over the recent peace agreement.
According to the report, the Palestinian militant group has recruited 10,000 to 15,000 fighters since the war started. These recruits are largely unmarried and untrained. Interestingly, sources indicate that nearly the same number of Hamas fighters were killed during the conflict.
Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State under President Biden, confirmed Hamas’s recruitment efforts. Earlier, he warned about the militant group’s ability to replenish its ranks despite the challenges it faced.
Source: Www.India.Com
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Trump says Iran deal would be 'really nice', bucking comments from hawks
Oliver Mizzi
25 January, 2025
US President Donald Trump has indicated he would like to resolve tensions with Iran through diplomacy after pre-inauguration speculation that he would reinstate a maximum pressure campaign against Iran.
The expected campaign, dubbed 'Maximum Pressure 2.0', was a key subject of speculation in US media, which cited Trump transition team insiders.
Source: Www.Newarab.Com
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Gandhi Peace Prize awarded to Iran for advocacy of Palestinian rights
January 25, 2025
The award was presented to Iran during a conference in New Delhi, the capital of India, on Saturday. The event brought together diplomats, cultural figures, and peace advocates from various countries, highlighting the importance of international cooperation for peace and justice in the region.
As the Israeli regime continues its genocidal campaign in Gaza, Iran’s consistent support for Palestinian rights and its stance against occupation have earned it global recognition.
During the conference, the organizers underlined the urgent need for serious action from international organizations to prevent further violence and genocide.
They stressed that peace could only be achieved through greater cooperation at both the political and cultural levels. The conference also explored the deep historical connections between India and West Asian region, emphasizing the importance of strengthening these bonds to foster peace in the region.
Source: Www.Tehrantimes.Com
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Iraq, Iran exchange remains of Gulf War soldiers
2025-01-26
Shafaq News/ On Sunday, Iraq and Iran exchanged the remains of soldiers who went missing during the First Gulf War (1980–1988) at the Shalamcheh border crossing, as part of ongoing efforts to honor the victims of the devastating conflict.
Hassan Al-Najjar, a representative of the Basra local government, stated to Shafaq News, “Under a memorandum of understanding between Iraq and Iran, the remains of war casualties were exchanged. The Iranian side received the remains of 41 soldiers, 16 of whom were identified.”
He added, “Iraq received the remains of 21 soldiers, including one identified body. DNA testing will be conducted on the unidentified remains to facilitate their return to families.”
Source: Shafaq.Com
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Southeast Asia
Filipino Palace Declares January 27 A Muslim Holiday For Isra Wal Mi'raj, Ascension Of The Prophet Muhammad
By GMA Integrated News
January 26, 2025
Malacañang has confirmed that January 27, 2025, Monday, will be a holiday for Muslims in observance of the Isra Wal Mi’raj or the Night Journey and Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said Sunday that the holiday will be observed specifically in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), as well as other Muslim areas in the country.
"Muslims in other areas where it is not observed as a holiday such as [the National Capital Region] are excused from reporting for work,” he added.
Source: Www.Gmanetwork.Com
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King, PM Anwar spend rainy Sunday morning with breakfast at NasiLemakBurungHantu
By Malay Mail
26 Jan 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 — His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim has this morning enjoyed his breakfast with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
According to his Facebok page, Sultan Ibrahim and Anwar ate at a NasiLemakBurungHantu branch at Semua House in Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Prabowo’s state visit to Malaysia set to boost bilateral relations and Asean stability, envoy says
26 Jan 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 — Indonesian President PrabowoSubianto’s first official state visit next week marks a pivotal moment for strengthening Indonesia-Malaysia bilateral ties and fostering Asean’s stability and security, said Indonesia’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Datuk Hermono.
He stated that the visit serves to bolster all aspects of diplomatic ties between Indonesia and Malaysia, two strong nations within the Asean region.
“It is hoped that this visit will expedite the resolution of several pending issues, including border disputes,” he said when contacted by Bernama.
Commenting on Asean, Hermono expressed his view that the main challenge facing the organisation today is maintaining Asean Centrality to navigate political dynamics and safeguard regional stability and security.
“In this context, the strengthening ties between Indonesia and Malaysia are undoubtedly crucial for upholding Asean Centrality,” he added.
Prabowo, who is currently on a state visit to India, stated via his X account on Thursday that he will next visit Malaysia at the invitation of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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As Malaysia hosts China’s first CNY celebration abroad, PM Anwar affirms strong bilateral ties
By ZafSeraj
26 Jan 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 — Anyone who glanced skyward near Kuala Lumpur City Centre last night would have witnessed a drone formation resembling a snake floating in the air.
Symbolising the Year of the Snake, this light show marked the start of Malaysia and China’s Chinese New Year celebration — which was also the superpower’s first celebration abroad.
Gracing the event last night with China’s Minister of Culture and Tourism Sun Yeli, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his speech quoted poet Lu You from the Song Dynasty in Mandarin to describe the two nations’ friendship.
“Meaning, after traversing mountains and rivers that seemed endless, we have come to a bright village amid the shade of willows and flowers,” Anwar said.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Africa
Drone attack on hospital kills 67 in Sudan's Darfur
Jan 26, 2025
PORT SUDAN: A drone attack on one of the last functioning hospitals in El-Fasher in Sudan's Darfur region has killed 67 people and injured dozens, local activists and a medical source said Saturday, updating an earlier toll.
"Thirty-seven of those injured in the drone strike yesterday died today, bringing the number of victims up to 67," the source told AFP, requesting anonymity for fear of retaliation.
Since April 2023, the Sudanese army has been at war with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who have seized nearly the entire vast western region of Darfur.
Since May they have besieged El-Fasher, the state capital of North Darfur, but have not managed to claim the city where army-aligned militias have repeatedly pushed them back.
Last week, the RSF issued an ultimatum demanding army forces and allies leave the city by Wednesday afternoon in advance of an expected offensive.
Local activists have reported intermittent fighting since, including repeated artillery fire from the RSF on the famine-hit Abu Shouk displacement camp.
On Friday morning alone, heavy shelling killed eight people in the camp, according to civil society group the Darfur General Coordination of Camps for the Displaced and Refugees.
The United Nations has voiced alarm, calling on both parties to ensure the protection of the city's civilian population -- some two million people.
Between December 9 and January 14, Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab observed three advanced drones at the RSF-controlled Nyala Airport, some 200 kilometres (124 miles) south.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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Tinubu has proven us wrong on Muslim-Muslim ticket —Northern CAN
By Ripples Nigeria
January 26, 2025
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has expressed its pleasant surprise at what it refers to as the inclusive governance exhibited by President Bola Tinubu despite running a Muslim-Muslim ticket where he and Vice President KashimShetimma are of the same faith.
Chairman of the Northern CAN, Reverend Yakubu Pam, who gave this thumps up to Tinubu in an interview with journalists after a meeting of its National Executive Committee in Kaduna on Saturday, lauded the inclusive governance of the current administration which he said has been brought to bear irrespective of ethno-religious differences which has overshadowed the Muslim-Muslim ticket of the Presidency.
Pam said though it would have been good to have a Christian as the number two citizen for balancing between the two major religions in the country, Tinubu’s appointment of Christians into key government positions has shown that he has respect for other religions.
Source: Www.ripplesnigeria.Com
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K1 De Ultimate stands firm, refuses to apologise for comments on Islamic clerics
by YewandeFasan
January 26, 2025
Fuji musician, King WasiuAyinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has refused to apologise for a controversial remark he made about Islamic clerics (Alfas) during his late mother’s Fidau prayer.
The statement, which sparked widespread criticism, was perceived by many as implying that some Alfas attend religious events for financial gain.
Sheikh Faruq Onikijipa, who delivered a sermon at the event, addressed K1’s comments, offering corrections and urging him to apologise to the clerics.
Source: Thenationonlineng.Net
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Yusuf, Shettima celebrate Tijjaniyya’s role in fostering peace among Muslims
By Nana Ismail
January 26, 2025
Vice President KashimShettima has commended the Tijjaniyya Islamic sect for its role in fostering unity within the Muslim community in Nigeria.
He made the remarks during the 2025 Maulud celebration in honor of Sheikh Ibrahim Niass, the spiritual leader of the Tijjaniyya sect, held at Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
In a statement issued by SanusiBatureDawakinTofa, spokesperson for the Kano State Governor, the Vice President, represented by AlhajiBabaganaFannami, praised the sect for its steadfast commitment to the authentic teachings of Islam over the past century.
Source: Dailypost.Ng
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Agege mosque shut down over leadership crisis
January 26, 2025
by Ibrahim Adam
A popular mosque, MosalasiAlhaja in Agege, Lagos State, has been sealed off by the Agege Local Government Council, following a leadership dispute triggered by the demise of the Chief Imam, Sheikh Habib Abdulmajid.
The Executive Chairman of the local government, GaniyuEgunjobi announced the decision in a statement yesterday, citing concerns over potential threats to public peace and order.
“The directive to seal off the mosque takes immediate effect and is necessary to avert conflict arising from the rivalry within the Hausa community in the area,” Egunjobi said.
Source: Thenationonlineng.Net
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/maharashtra-muslim-rioting-epicentre/d/134436