Mosques In Four UP Districts Covered With Tarpaulin To Protect From Holi Colours; 18 UP Districts Delayed The Time Of Friday Prayers
New Age Islam News Bureau
14 March 2025
• Mosques In Four UP Districts Covered With Tarpaulin To Protect From Holi Colours; 18 UP Districts Delayed The Time Of Friday Prayers
• Malaysia Fatwa Committee Declares Ahle Sunna Wal Jama’ah The Country’s Official Mazhab
• Saudi Grand Mufti Rules Against Posting Prayers And Preaching In Mosques On Social Media ; Calls on Imams To Avoid Hypocrisy
• Uzbekistan: Parents Face Punishment For Their Children’s Religious Education Before The Age Of 18
• Hindu Community Celebrates HoliAt Krishna Temple In Rawalpindi
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India
• Kerala Mosque Opened Its Doors To Thousands Of Women Devotees Who Arrived For The Annual AttukalPongala Festival, Church Offered Butter Milk
• Sambhal Police Gears Up With 250 CCTVs And Drones To Ensure Safe Holi
• ‘Tarpaulin Hijab’ To Urging Muslims To Stay Indoors, What’s Behind BJP’s Holi Narrative
• Congress Targets Yogi Adityanath For Backing Police Officer Who ‘Advised’ Muslims To Be Indoors On Holi
• Some 'bigots' have converted Holi celebrations into source of fear for minorities: Mehbooba Mufti
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Southeast Asia
• Senior citizen fined RM100 for bomb hoax at Penang airport check-in counter
• Terror trial of Ulu Tiram police station attacker’s family to start October
• AliffSyukri told to enter defence in case of controversial Raya video
• Malaysiakini reporter claims trial to bribery charge over alleged RM20,000 solicitation from Pakistani
• PM wants grassroots leaders to help dispel misinformation bogging down Putrajaya
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Arab world
• Muslims urged not to be extravagant during holy month of Ramadan
• Makkah Lanterns Festival returns for the eighth year as part of Ramadan activities
• Holi: Many Indian expats in Dubai postpone colourful celebrations due to Ramadan 2025
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Europe
• Crowds Gather For Hindu And Muslim Festivals at Leicester, England
• Revival of the Darb al-Ahmar Trail: A trip to the Ramadan of Cairo between the past and the present
• Scottish MP marks sixth anniversary of Chch terror attacks
• Diocese of Carlisle to create 90 ‘new Christian communities’ across Cumbria
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Pakistan
• Baloch Attack: Pak Points Finger At Afghanistan, Says 'We Have Evidence'
• Two relief trains start lifting coaches derailed in Balochistan terror attack
• Imran assails transfer of judges to IHC
• Barbs fly even as NA resolves unity against terror
• Police tighten security outside detention centre for Afghan refugees in Rawalpindi
• Civil, military leaders must put their heads together: PM
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Mideast
• Syrian Leader Signs Constitution That Puts The Country Under An Islamist Group’s Rule For 5 Years
• ‘No Impunity’: Israel Strikes Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Damascus
• Israel targets what it says was an Islamic Jihad command centre in Damascus
• UN experts accuse Israel of sexual violence and 'genocidal acts' in Gaza
• US Mideast envoy proposes 50-day ceasefire extension in Gaza: Reports
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South Asia
• UN Chief António Guterres Visits Bangladesh To Assess State Of Rohingya
• India, Bangladesh Conduct Naval Exercise Amid Diplomatic Chill
• Torkham border dispute talks collapse as Afghanistan walks out
• WFP concerned as 47 Trucks remain stranded at Torkham Border in Pakistan
• UN: Opium prices in Afghanistan skyrocket to $750 per Kg
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North America
• How Donald Trump Conned Muslims and Palestinian Americans
• Trump Officials say Immigration Detention Centres are Full
• Indosat Enhances Network Capacity to Support Increased Demand During Ramadan
• City attorney says Muslim Minneapolis City Council members can’t host iftar in a city building
• Ramadan And The Best Charity – OpEd
• A difficult era for American Jews, including in Utah
• The pandemic and Pope Francis
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Africa
• Ramadan: Care For The Less Privileged, Customs CG Urges Muslims
• A Libyan Town Comes Together to Make a Beloved Ramadan Dish
• Another Miyetti Allah vigilante member assassinated in Kwara
• Muslims lament hike in fruit prices, seek review
• Church Times Train-A-Priest (TAP) Fund Africa continues
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/mosques-friday-prayers-holi-colours/d/134874
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Mosques In Four UP Districts Covered With Tarpaulin To Protect From Holi Colours; 18 UP Districts Delayed The Time Of Friday Prayers
March 13, 2025
The Uttar Pradesh police have gone on a high alert on Thursday on the eve of the festival of Holi coinciding with the Juma congregation of Ramadan in anticipation of any untoward incident.
The police administration in UP is gearing up to deal with any situation that threatens to vitiate the communal atmosphere in the state. In 18 districts of the state, the time of Friday prayers has been changed or delayed to accommodate the Holi celebrations.
According to reports, in four districts – Bareilly, Sambhal, Shahjahanpur, and Aligarh – mosques have been covered with tarpaulin for protection from colour. In Bareilly alone, the report says, 109 mosques have been covered with tarpaulin where Ram Barat procession was taken out on Thursday amid tight security cover.
The mosques falling on the route of the Ram Barat were guarded by around 5,000 policemen. In Shahjahanpur, 67 mosques have been covered with tarpaulin and the police are conducting a flag march in sensitive areas for the procession of Lat Saheb to be held tomorrow. More than 1000 police personnel have been outsourced from other districts. At the same time, 10 mosques have been covered in Sambhal, three in Aligarh.
A report from Shahjahanpur said additional security has been ensured for tomorrow’s Lat Saheb’s procession where people throw shoes on a symbolic Lat Saheb, who sits on a buffalo cart.
Two processions of Lat Saheb are taken out in Shahjahanpur, which are called small and big laatsaheb. Kotwal gives a salute to Lat Saheb. After this, the procession enters the Sadar Bazar police station area via Roshanganj, BeriChowki, Anta Square. The procession ends at Baba Vishwanath Temple.
Around 67 mosques and mausoleums on the route of the procession of Lat Saheb have been covered with tarpaulin so that they do not get disfigured by colours and gulal.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere in Sambhal is already sensitive with a police force deployed outside the Jama Masjid. Around 10 mosques have been covered with the tarpaulin in the city. A police team is patrolling in sensitive areas. All are being appealed to celebrate the festival in a peaceful manner while Maulana Aftab of Jama Masjid has extended the time of namaz to 2 pm.
SP K K Bishnoi of Sambhal said, “The police team has been deployed at the place where the Holi procession will come out. A total of 49 susceptible sites have been marked. Any type of force will not be tolerated. If a person forcibly spray gulal or do indecency with someone, he should immediately report to the police post”.
Source: Www.Thestatesman.Com
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Malaysia Fatwa Committee Declares Ahle Sunna Wal Jama’ahThe Country’s Official Mazhab
13-03- 2025
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan – BERNAMApix
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KUALA LUMPUR: The Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia (MKI Fatwa Committee) has decided that Ahli Sunnah Waljamaah is the country’s official mazhab (school of thought within Islamic jurisprudence) from a legal standpoint.Malaysian job opportunities
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the decision was made during the committee meeting held on October 21 and 22 last year.
“The government has taken several key measures to strengthen the Ahli SunahWaljamaah approach, which emphasises moderation and seeks to minimise divisions among Muslims.
“The government remains committed to the unity agenda among Muslims in the country while also focusing on strengthening adherence to Ahli SunahWaljamaah and discouraging extremism stemming from differing views and ideologies,” he said during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara today.
He was replying to a question from Senator Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof regarding the efforts of the MADANI government in addressing ideological differences that could affect Muslim unity.
Zulkifli said the MKI Fatwa Committee had previously determined, in its meeting on May 5, 1996, that all Muslims in Malaysia should follow the teachings of Islam based on Ahli SunahWaljamaah in matters of creed, jurisprudence, and ethics.Malaysian job opportunities
According to him, among the government’s initiatives is the enhancement of the role of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) in collaboration with state Islamic institutions to ensure that the administration and governance of Islam align with Ahli SunahWaljamaah principles.
“Efforts to coordinate and standardise fatwas, including syariah laws, are also carried out systematically in cooperation with state religious authorities.
“The MKI Fatwa Committee serves as an essential platform for addressing ideological differences. The committee meets at least three times a year to coordinate and standardise fatwas, ensuring they serve as a reference at both national and state levels,” he said.
He added that Friday sermons are also used as a means of reminding and advising Muslims to uphold moderation, harmony, peace, and unity while emphasising proper etiquette in handling differences.
Additionally, he said the government carries out various activities and programmes using both practical and verbal dakwah approaches to promote and strengthen the understanding of Islam.
“The government continues to enhance educational and knowledge-based programmes, including takmir sessions in mosques and suraus nationwide, forum perdanaehwal Islam, MADANI knowledge assemblies, hadis study sessions, and more,” he said.
Replying to a supplementary question from Senator DatinRosSuryatiAlang on whether the government would issue guidelines for speakers, Zulkifli said each state has a tauliah (accreditation) committee to monitor, regulate, and approve preaching applications.
Source: Thesun.My
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Saudi Grand Mufti Rules Against Posting Prayers And Preaching In Mosques On Social Media ; Calls on Imams To Avoid Hypocrisy
March 13, 2025
Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Sheikh
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RIYADH — Saudi Grand Mufti and Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Sheikh called on imams and preachers to be sincere and avoid hypocrisy and showing off. He cited filming and posting prayers and preaching in mosques during the holy month of Ramadan on social media and channels as an example of incompatibility with sincerity.
The Grand Mufti said this in a religious edict (fatwa) in response to a question about the decision taken by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance to ban filming and posting prayers and lectures on social media. “This issue was a serious one before the decision of the ministry to ban filming and posting prayers and lectures on social media as part of the measures to ensure avoiding errors that may occur,” he said while noting that there is the issue of sincerity, which is a condition for the acceptance of any act of worship. “There are two conditions to accept any work. They are sincerity to God, and that the work is in accordance with the spirit of the Holy Qur’an and the Prophet’s Sunnah,” he said.
Al-Sheikh also drew attention to the Saying of the Prophet (peace be upon him): “The thing I fear most for you is minor polytheism. They said: What is minor polytheism, O Messenger of Allah? He said: Hypocrisy.”
The Grand Mufti explained in the fatwa that filming prayers, sermons and lectures or any acts of worship has rulings that differ according to the intention and purpose of the filming. He cited the Saying of the Prophet: “Whoever listens, Allah will listen to him, and whoever shows off, Allah will show off with him.”
Al-Sheikh emphasized that sincerity is important and that any action that is done without seeking Allah’s pleasure will be returned to its doer. He underlined the need to think and reflect before finding himself bankrupt on the Day of Judgment.
Source: Saudigazette.Com
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Uzbekistan: Parents Face Punishment For Their Children’s Religious Education Before The Age Of 18
March 14, 2025
Schoolchildren playing with their teacher at Navoi Square in Andijan, Uzbekistan. Photo Credit: xomidov, Pexels
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On 21 February, a new law came into force introducing fines of over one month’s average wages or up to 15 days in jail for parents who allow their children to receive “illegal” religious education before the age of 18. Existing laws target those who teach religion to under-18s, not parents. Many Muslims expressed concern about the law before it was adopted. An official at the regime-appointed Ombudsperson’s Office refused to put Forum 18 through to her, adding: “unfortunately we cannot give any information since it is all confidential”.
On 20 February, President ShavkatMirziyoyev signed a law allegedly “aimed at further strengthening the protection of the rights of the child”. The Law bans and introduces punishments for parents or guardians who allow their children to receive “illegal” religious education before the age of 18. The Law came into force the following day on its official publication.
Existing laws target those who teach religion to under-18s, not the parents or guardians targeted by the new Law. However, parents and guardians who facilitate their children’s religious education have long been targeted by regime oppression (see below).
The new Law comes as the police again target children who attend night prayers at mosques during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began at the end of February (see forthcoming F18News article).
The new amendments to existing laws impose fines of over one month’s average wages or jail terms of up to 15 days on parents or guardians who allow or arrange “illegal” religious education for their under-18-year-olds. The fines specified in the adopted version of the Law had been reduced from those proposed in the draft version in 2024 (see below).
Asked why Uzbekistan adopted Laws prohibiting children from practice of their religion or punishing parents for arranging religious education for their children unauthorised by the State, AbdurahimKadyrov, Expert of the State Religious Affairs Committee, declined to comment. “You need to talk to the Oliy Majlis [Parliament] about it, and not to us” (see below).
Muzaffar Khusanov of the General Section of the Presidential Administration refused to answer questions on the new law and punishments. “We are not specialists in religious issues. You should call the Muslim Board,” he told Forum 18 (see below).
Senator Malika Kodyrhanova from the Committee on Youth and Women refused to explain why Parliament had adopted the new law and punishments. “I think you should talk to other Senators who were responsible for this Law,” she told Forum 18 (see below).
An official at the office of the regime-appointed Ombudsperson FeruzaEshmatova refused to put Forum 18 through to her, adding: “unfortunately we cannot give any information since it is all confidential” (see below).
On 14 August 2024, the Legislative Chamber (lower chamber) of the non-freely-elected parliament, the Oliy Majlis, adopted the then draft law. The Senate (upper chamber) approved the law on 16 August 2024 (see below).
The Interior Ministry claimed earlier that the draft Law would prevent children from falling under the influence of terrorist groups. The regime has often made allegations of alleged “terrorism” (typically against devout Muslims) without any credible evidence. Interior Ministry officials refused to answer Forum 18’s questions about the planned amendments (see below).
Many of the people the regime rules without ever being elected freely and fairly do not agree with the regime. For example, when the regime introduced more repressive measures in its 2021 Religion Law, individuals told Forum 18 that they would among other changes like to see an end to the ban on teaching religion privately, an end to the ban on private teaching of Islam to children or opening new madrassahs [religious schools] (see below).
The Legislative Chamber published the text of the then draft Law to “further strengthen the rights of children” on its website on 26 June 2024 for public discussion lasting just a week. Comments were almost universally hostile. “I’m against it,” one typical comment read. “Parents should decide how to educate and raise their children .. this draft Law limits the people’s choice and desire. Legal religious education for our children!” (see below)
Another comment included the remark: “What kind of parents are parents if they do not give religious education to their children?”
Many also expressed concern on social media that the draft new Law would further restrict freedom of religion or belief. “What we found is that religious radicalism and fanaticism are on the rise! If it is on the rise, shouldn’t religion be taught more deeply? Can bans work?” the writer Alisher Nazar commented. Stressing what he regards as the importance of religion in life, he noted: “how can I not become a Muslim before the age of 18? How can I call myself a Muslim if I don’t know anything about Islam until this age? The most important features in human life: manners, honour, modesty, chastity are not formed until the age of 18?” (see below).
The Law on the introduction of additions and amendments to some legislative acts aimed at further strengthening the protection of the rights of the child came into force on 21 February 2025.
An addition to Article 47 of the Administrative Code (“Non-fulfilment of the obligations for the upbringing and education of children”) specifies punishments of a fine of 5 to 10 base units for parents or guardians who allow their children to receive “illegal” religious education. Repeat “offences” within a year face a fine of 10 to 15 base units or a short-term jail term of up to 15 days. Parents or guardians also face punishment for sending their children to unregistered religious education establishments.
An addition to Article 23 (“Guarantee of the right of the child to education”) of the 2008 Law on Guarantees of the Rights of the Child reads: “Illegal involvement of a child in the process of religious education by parents or their guardians, that is, at the discretion of unregistered or unlicensed organisations or individuals who do not have special religious education and carry out religious education without the permission of the central governing body of religious organisations in Uzbekistan, is not allowed or to transfer them for education there.”
On 25 June 2024, the Legislative Chamber (lower chamber) of the non-freely-elected parliament, the Oliy Majlis, adopted in the first reading a draft law to allegedly “further strengthen the rights of children”. The draft Law banned and introduced punishments for parents or guardians who allow their children to receive “illegal” religious education before the age of 18. the Legislative Chamber adopted the draft law on 14 August 2024.
No election in Uzbekistan has ever been found to be free and fair by Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) election observers.
Existing laws target those who teach religion to under-18s, not the parents or guardians targeted by the draft Law. However, parents and guardians who facilitated their children’s religious education have long been targeted by regime oppression. This includes being warned by the State Security Service (SSS) and ordinary police of unspecified consequences if they teach Islam to their children, or any of their children wear the hijab.
The Interior Ministry claimed that the draft Law would prevent children from falling under the influence of terrorist groups. A Deputy Interior Minister RamazonAshrapov, who presented the draft Law to the Legislative Chamber in June 2024, argued that the number of groups engaged in religious education without a licence “increases day by day” and that the number of people falling under the influence of terrorist organisations is increasing.
Officials in the office of Deputy Interior Minister Ashrapov would not put Forum 18 through to him in July 2024 and would not answer any questions on the draft Law.
The regime has often made allegations of alleged “terrorism” (typically against devout Muslims) without any credible evidence. A symptom of this attitude is the long-standing involvement of police “Struggle with Extremism and Terrorism Department” officers in human rights violations against people of all beliefs.
The Senate, the upper chamber of the non-freely elected parliament, approved the new Law on 16 August 2024, according to its website. The Senate then sent the Law to the President for signature.
The hearing heard that between 2021 and 2023, 2,457 administrative cases had been brought to punish those who teach religion without state permission. “No one can guarantee that a child will not become a victim of religious extremist ideas as a result of receiving religious education in some unregistered, informal centres and from persons engaged in illegal religious activities,” the Senate website declared.
“Moreover,” the Senate website added, “during such illegal education, various serious crimes are committed against children. Restricting the child’s freedom of movement, keeping them in buildings and premises that do not meet sanitary and hygienic requirements, causing them physical suffering or moral pressure, and even turning them into a victim of sexual violence are clear confirmation of this.”
On 20 February 2025, President ShavkatMirziyoyev signed the Law. It came into force the following day on its official publication.
The regime’s new restrictions violate its legally-binding international human rights law obligations. As Article 18 (“Freedom of Thought, Conscience or Religion”) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) states, “The States Parties to the present Covenant undertake to have respect for the liberty of parents and, when applicable, legal guardians to ensure the religious and moral education of their children in conformity with their own convictions.”
The United Nations Human Rights Committee’s General Comment 22 on ICCPR Article 18 notes: “The freedom from coercion to have or to adopt a religion or belief and the liberty of parents and guardians to ensure religious and moral education cannot be restricted.”
Several people Forum 18 spoke to in late February and early March expressed concern about the new punishments on parents for arranging a religious education for their children. All asked that they not be identified for fear of state reprisals.
“The authorities are tightening the screws harder and harder,” a Muslim from Tashkent complained to Forum 18. “What is most interesting is that this Law will punish ‘illegal religious education’ but at the same time there is no legal religious education for children in Uzbekistan except for a few children selected by the authorities. That’s the paradox.” The Muslim added that they know other Muslims who “have left the country for this particular reason”.
“People are tired of this regime,” another Muslim complained to Forum 18. “But they are afraid to complain about their situation, including about the state religious policies.”
“The authorities need at first to open or allow the opening of many licensed Islamic schools for children as the demand is great,” a third Muslim complained to Forum 18. “They can then demand that citizens attend licensed schools.” The Muslim added that the Law “will now force parents secretly to send their children abroad for religious education”.
“Millions of Uzbeks have left for Russia, Turkey and other countries as labour migrants,” a fourth Muslim explained. “Many took their children with them, and some of these parents send them to private individuals or Islamic courses arranged in the countries of their residence. The parents do so to safeguard their children from the corrupt influence of gangs or crime or other negative influences.”
These parents will “also get in trouble with the Uzbek authorities if found to have done so,” the Muslim explained. “The government wants total control of children and their education.”
Khusanov wrote down the questions, then refused to put Forum 18 through to any Presidential Administration officials. “We are not specialists in religious issues. You should call the Muslim Board,” he responded. He then declined to talk further.
AbdurahimKadyrov, Expert of the State Religious Affairs Committee, adamantly defended the actions of the Police expelling children from mosques during Ramadan (see forthcoming F18News article). “These children are under 18 and are not allowed to participate in religious activity under the Law,” he told Forum 18 on 7 March. Asked why Uzbekistan adopted Laws prohibiting children from practice of their religion or punishing parents for arranging religious education for their children unauthorised by the State, he declined to comment. “You need to talk to the Oliy Majlis [Parliament] about it, and not to us.”
Senators of the OliyMajilis (Parliament) were reluctant to talk to Forum 18. Asked about the new Law, officials from Parliament’s General Section referred Forum 18 on 12 March to Senator Gulnara Marufova. Marufova’s assistant (who did not give her name), who answered the phone the same day, told Forum 18 that she is “busy” and that it should talk to Senator Malika Kodyrhanova from the Committee on Youth and Women. “They were responsible for that Law,” the official said.
Forum 18 wanted to ask FeruzaEshmatova, the regime-appointed Oliy Majlis Human Rights Commissioner or Ombudsperson, why Uzbekistan adopted a law to punish parents who arrange for their children to have religious education. However, the official who answered the phone at her office on 12 March (who refused to give her name) refused to put Forum 18 to Eshmatova or any other officials. “They are all either out of the office or busy,” was her response. “I remember you called one month ago but unfortunately we cannot give any information since it is all confidential.”
The Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) has found that the Human Rights Commissioner does not comply with the Paris Principles for national human rights institutions, as among other problems it is not independent of the regime.
Teaching religion without state permission has long been banned. Religion teachers require written permission from the headquarters of a religious community that has state permission to exist. The Religion Law bans religious education without state permission, and the regime uses a wide range of tools to target this exercise of freedom of religion and belief.
For example, mosques and non-Muslim places of worship have had surveillance cameras controlled by the regime to be installed. The police are interested, among other things, in whether any under-18-year-olds and their parents are present at meetings for worship. “The surveillance cameras make it easy to find the parents and to punish them,” one community commented.
Mosques have been raided and those who teach boys and adult men how to read the Koran and pray have been jailed. Increased restrictions across the country on under-18s being taught Islam and attending mosques have also been implemented.
Many of the people the regime rules without ever being elected freely and fairly do not agree with the regime. For example, when the regime introduced more repressive measures in its 2021 Religion Law, individuals told Forum 18 that they would among other changes like to see an end to the ban on teaching religion privately, an end to the ban on private teaching of Islam to children or opening new madrassahs [religious schools].
The Legislative Chamber published the text of the draft Law to “further strengthen the rights of children” on its website on 26 June 2024, giving just one week for public discussion. By the closing period of 2 July 2024, 6,490 comments had been submitted. Comments were almost universally hostile.
“I’m against it,” one typical comment read. “Parents should decide how to educate and raise their children. The state should deal only with the elimination of the factors that threaten it. And this draft Law limits the people’s choice and desire. Legal religious education for our children!”
Many also expressed concern on social media that the draft new Law would further restrict the freedom of religion or belief enshrined in the Constitution.
“What we found is that religious radicalism and fanaticism are on the rise! If it is on the rise, shouldn’t religion be taught more deeply? Can bans work?” the writer Alisher Nazar commented on Facebook.
Stressing what he regards as the importance of religion in life, Nazar noted: “how can I not become a Muslim before the age of 18? How can I call myself a Muslim if I don’t know anything about Islam until this age? The most important features in human life: manners, honour, modesty, chastity are not formed until the age of 18?”
Mubashshir Ahmad (AlisherTursunov), a human rights defender and religious blogger now in exile in Istanbul, called for an example to be taken from Turkey’s experience. “Schoolchildren are on vacation in Turkey now. That’s why they are widely involved in ‘Summer Koran courses’. Believe me, Turkish children are more modern and ambitious than our children,” he wrote on Facebook. “Therefore, it is far from extremism and radicalism.”
Tursunov was the founder of Azon.uz, which had an online television and radio channel, as well as pages on social media, covering news and comment from a Muslim perspective. On 21 June 2021 journalists and editors from Azon.uz and Kun.uz were fined for publishing articles on religious themes without Religious Affairs Committee permission. Azon.uz abruptly closed without explanation and deleted all its online platforms in August 2023. Tursunov is wanted in Uzbekistan on criminal charges and has been added to Russia’s wanted list.
“The law does not specify what constitutes giving one’s children over to illegal religious education,” a human rights defender told Forum 18 from Tashkent in July 2024. “They say that under the new draft Law it would be possible to punish even parents who teach their own children religion at home. This would violate the Constitution, as under the Constitution parents have the right to educate their children in accordance with their religion.”
When Forum 18 pointed out in July 2024 the many negative comments about the draft Law on the parliamentary website, RakhmatjonUmarov of the Legislative Chamber’s Information Department conceded that many were negative. “We are aware of the comments. We will study and discuss them.”
Source: Www.Eurasiareview.Com
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Hindu Community Celebrates HoliAt Krishna TempleIn Rawalpindi
Aamir Yasin
March 14, 2025
RAWALPINDI: The Hindu community on Thursday celebrated Holi, the festival of colours. More than 50 families gathered at Krishna Temple in Saddar and Priest Jai Ram led the religious rituals of the day.
Young and old alike came out and splashed colours on each other. The function started with prayers (Pooja) of Krishna, Ram, Durga and Hanuman. The celebrations were followed by distribution of sweets and fruits.
Before the function, the Hindu community prayed for the prosperity of the country and countrymen. They prayed that the festival of colours may bring peace, prosperity and brotherhood.
“Though breaking of an earthen pot full of milk and cream is associated with the birthday of Lord Krishna, this time we hanged the earthen pot full of colours as Lord Krishna also celebrated the Holi this way,” said Sardar Heera, chairman of Pakistan Hindu-Sikh Social Welfare Council, while talking to Dawn.
He said the Hindu community living in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad arrived at Krishna Mandir to celebrate Holi. Throwing colours on each other was to celebrate the spring season and end differences within the community.
Priest Jai Ram explained that Hindus celebrated Holi, which is one of the biggest festivals in the Hindu calendar. He said Holi symbolised the victory of good over evil, and colours were thrown at each other as a sign of celebration and victory of God.
He said there was a Raja namely Hiranyakashipu in Multan who presented himself as god before the people. However, his son Prahad refused to admit him as a god. He said Prahad was a staunch devotee of Vishnu. The Raja asked his sister Holika, who was believed to have been gifted with the power that she would not burn when she wore her clock, to carry Prahad into the great fire lit for the purpose. However, Holika was burnt and Prahad escaped due to the blessings of Hindu god Vishnu.
Due to this great escape, the Hindus throughout the world celebrate Holi. Jai Ram said the tradition of playing with colours on Holi draws its roots from a legend of Radha and the Hindu god Krishna as both also celebrated this festival.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1897695/hindu-community-celebrates-holi-in-rawalpindi
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India
Kerala Mosque Opened Its Doors To Thousands Of Women Devotees Who Arrived For The Annual AttukalPongalaFestival, Church Offered Butter Milk
By: Deepthi Rao
Mar 14, 2025
In a heart warming display of communal harmony, the Manakkad Juma Masjid in Kerala's capital, Thiruvananthapuram, opened its doors to thousands of women devotees who arrived for the annual AttukalPongala festival on Thursday.
The mosque provided essential facilities, including parking, accommodation for drivers, drinking water, and separate toilets for women.
"Besides that, separate toilets for women and drinking water facilities were also made available for the devotees. One of the rooms was also converted for use by the police personnel who would be on duty during the festival," said a mosque representative.
He emphasised that these facilities are offered every year and expressed regret that food could not be provided in the morning due to ongoing Ramadan fasting. "We provided food yesterday evening when we broke the fast for the day," he said.
Source: Www.Indiatoday.In
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Sambhal Police Gears Up With 250 CCTVs And Drones To Ensure Safe Holi
ManasiKamble: March 14, 2025
Lucknow: While the city of Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh is celebrating Holi, the police are ensuring that everything remains calm. As Holi approaches on Friday, officials have implemented robust security measures to ensure there are no issues.
More than 250 CCTV cameras and drones are utilized to monitor activities closely to observe events throughout the town. High-ranking police officials are responsible for overseeing the situation, and they have indicated that anyone creating disturbances will be addressed swiftly.
Particular focus is being directed towards the paths where Holi celebrations will occur. To prevent any issues, numerous mosques have been draped with tarpaulins. Quick Response Teams (QRTs) are patrolling the streets as well, closely monitoring various regions.
Sambhal has been organized into six zones and 29 sectors. Every sector is overseen by a magistrate-level official, tasked with maintaining law and order. This meticulous preparation seeks to guarantee that all goes well.
To enhance the police visibility, six companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) along with two companies of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been dispatched. These teams are positioned in locations with a greater likelihood of issues, allowing them to respond promptly if an event occurs.
Should any disturbances or altercations arise, these teams will quickly respond to the situation to regain control. Authorities have cautioned that anyone attempting to disturb the peace will encounter severe legal consequences. Residents are urged to observe Holi in a peaceful and amicable manner.
Officials are advising the public to disregard rumors and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the police. This enables them to remain aware of any possible issues.
In past years, comparable robust security measures have been implemented during festivals, aiding in ensuring everyone’s safety. This year, the administration is putting in effort to ensure that the festivities take place smoothly and without any issues. They desire for everyone to celebrate Holi carefree.
Source: Www.freepressjournal.in
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‘Tarpaulin Hijab’ To Urging Muslims To Stay Indoors, What’s Behind BJP’s Holi Narrative
Shanker Arnimesh
13 March, 2025
New Delhi: From calls to Muslims to stay indoors to urging people to wear “tarpaulin hijab”, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders are in overdrive this Holi.
This has sparked controversy from Uttar Pradesh—where assembly elections are two years away—to Bihar, which faces polls in just six months. This year, Holi falls both on a Friday and in the holy month of Ramzan.
It started in UP’s Sambhal, dubbed the “new Ayodhya” by some, where Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary urged Muslims to stay indoors for Friday prayers on Holi to ensure “uninterrupted” celebrations.
“Holi is a special festival and comes only once in year while Friday comes 52 times a year,” Chaudhary, a wrestler-turned-police officer also known as a ‘super cop’, told the media after a peace committee meeting.
He added: “If the people of the Muslim community feel that the colours of Holi will corrupt their religion, then they should not leave their homes on that day. If any miscreant is found doing anything wrong on Holi, then he will not be spared. We will not let peace and order deteriorate in Sambhal.”
Source: Www.Theprint.In
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Congress targets Yogi Adityanath for backing police officer who ‘advised’ Muslims to be indoors on Holi
March 14, 2025
Targeting UP CM Yogi Adityanath for backing Sambhal DSP Anuj Chaudhary, who “advised” Muslims to stay indoors during Holi, the Congress Thursday said “it is highly condemnable for an elected chief minister to promote the street-side thinking of a police officer”.
Congress media and publicity department chairman Pawan Khera, in a statement, said Holi is not a festival of “any one colour but a festival of every colour and love”, which has always been celebrated with enthusiasm .
“…it is highly condemnable for an elected CM to promote the street-side thinking of a police officer. Those who promote communal animosity in the name of Holi and Friday probably do not know that in the last 25 years, Holi and Jumma have come together six times and have been celebrated peacefully, but such extremist thinking has been seen for the first time,” Khera said.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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Some 'bigots' have converted Holi celebrations into source of fear for minorities: Mehbooba Mufti
14.03.25
People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti Friday said some "bigots" have converted Holi celebrations into a "source of fear" for minorities with the "approval of those in power".
In a post on X on Friday, Mehbooba said, "Holi for me has always symbolised India's Ganga-Jamuna Tehzeeb. I fondly remember eagerly awaiting the festival & celebrating it with my Hindu friends with immense joy & enthusiasm.
"However some bigots have now converted this celebration into a source of fear for minorities with the approval of those in power. It's time to wake up India. Wishing everyone a Happy Holi!" Mufti said on X.
Source: Telegraphindia.Com
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Southeast Asia
Senior citizen fined RM100 for bomb hoax at Penang airport check-in counter
By Malay Mail
14 Mar 2025
BALIK PULAU, March 14 — A senior citizen who falsely claimed his friend had a bomb in his bag has been fined RM100.
According to The Star, 64-year-old Ng KokYeow pleaded guilty to insulting behaviour intended to disrupt public peace. He admitted to the charge immediately after it was read before Magistrate Chia Huey Ting on Friday.
According to the charge sheet, Ng informed a Malaysia Airlines employee at the Penang International Airport check-in counter in Bayan Lepas that his friend’s bag contained a bomb. The incident occurred around 10.30pm on March 11.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Terror trial of Ulu Tiram police station attacker’s family to start October
14 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 14 — The High Court today set an eight-day trial, beginning Oct 22, for three family members of the suspect in the Ulu Tiram Police Station attack in Johor, who are facing terrorism-related charges.
Judge Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid set the dates, after both deputy public prosecutor Mohamad Mustaffa P. Kunyalam and defence lawyer Fatima Zulaikha Ahmad Bashri, representing the suspect’s mother, RosnaJantan, 60, and sisters FarhahSobrinaRadin Imran, 24, and Mariah Radin Imran, 20, agreed on the schedule.
Earlier, Mohamad Mustaffa said that the prosecution would call 15 witnesses, including the Sessions Court judge, investigating officers, and members of the public.
On Sept 30 last year, Rosna pleaded not guilty to a charge of failing to provide information related to terrorist ideology, at a house in Kampung Sungai Tiram, Johor Bahru, between April 2017 and May 17, 2023.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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AliffSyukri told to enter defence in case of controversial Raya video
14 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 15 — The Sepang Sessions Court has ordered Datuk Seri AliffSyukriKamarzaman to enter his defence on four charges related to uploading indecent videos during Aidilfitri nearly three years ago.
According to SinarHarian, Judge Ahmad Fuad Othman ruled that the prosecution had successfully established a prima facie case, warranting the continuation of the trial.
“More than just eating in public during Ramadan, uploading inappropriate videos in the holy month is also disrespectful,” the judge was quoted as saying.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Malaysiakini reporter claims trial to bribery charge over alleged RM20,000 solicitation from Pakistani
By Kenneth Tee
14 Mar 2025
SHAH ALAM, March 14 — A reporter has claimed trial at the Sessions Court here after he was charged with soliciting RM20,000 in bribes from a Pakistani national.
B Nantha Kumar from Malaysiakini pleaded not guilty when the charge under Section 16(a)(A) of the MACC Act 2009 was read out to him.
Under the sole charge, Nantha Kumar was accused of soliciting RM20,000 in exchange for not uploading or publishing any news articles on an alleged foreign worker cartel syndicate involving Pakistanis on the news website.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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PM wants grassroots leaders to help dispel misinformation bogging down Putrajaya
14 Mar 2025
SHAH ALAM, March 14 — Community leaders must assist in explaining the policies and achievements of the MADANI Government to the people, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
He also urged them not to entertain negative perceptions spread by certain parties, including the opposition, against the government.
Anwar said too much time would be wasted responding to baseless accusations, which would not resolve anything compared to highlighting the government’s many successes, such as the SumbanganTunai Rahmah (STR) aid initiative, civil servant salary increases and other benefits now enjoyed by a large segment of society.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Arab world
Muslims urged not to be extravagant during holy month of Ramadan
14 Mar 2025
Doha: Ramadan is a time for kindness and being free from bad habits, a good chance to adopt a better lifestyle.
The Peninsula visited the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd Al Wahhab Mosque, the Qatar State Grand Mosque, and spoke to Muhammad Suleiman Al Suqaitri, Imam of a mosque and preacher at the Ministry of Awqaf.
Al Suqaitri stressed that the moderation of Islam is that the month of Ramadan represents an opportunity for healthy eating without extravagance, unlike what some fasting people do, who make the holy month an opportunity for craving and fullness. This explains the insatiable appetite for buying, storing, and racing for grocery stores at the beginning of the month.
Source: Thepeninsulaqatar.Com
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Makkah Lanterns Festival returns for the eighth year as part of Ramadan activities
March 14, 2025
RIYADH — The Makkah Lanterns Festival has returned for its eighth season, bringing Ramadan-themed activities, shopping, and entertainment to the city.
Organized by the Makkah Chamber of Commerce, the festival runs from Ramadan 12 to 23 at the Makkah Chamber for Exhibitions and Events Center. Visitors can explore live performances, a children's entertainment area, a marketplace, and a bazaar featuring local artisans and small businesses. Food stalls, cafés, and designated seating areas offer spaces for families to gather.
The festival aims to highlight local culture while also providing a platform for small and medium-sized businesses.
Source: Saudigazette.Com.Sa
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Holi: Many Indian expats in Dubai postpone colourful celebrations due to Ramadan 2025
SajilaSaseendran
March 14, 2025
Dubai: Holi, the Indian festival of colours that celebrates the onset of the spring season, falls today, March 14, this year. However, thousands of Indian expats will be celebrating the festival only after Ramadan to respect the culture and traditions associated with the holy month.
Many Indian expatriates community members, especially Hindu families, would be marking the festival with prayers and special dishes. However, many are refraining from the colour play — throwing colourful powders at each other — the most prominent highlight of community celebrations of Holi.
While some small-scale events to mark the day are taking place today and during the weekend, a few events in Dubai, where participants sing, dance and play with colours, will be held after Ramadan.
Sunil Grover, whose company organises one such annual celebration in Zabeel Park, said the event has been scheduled for April 1. Colour play, live DJ party, dance performances and food stall are essential parts of these celebrations.
Source: Gulfnews.Com
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Europe
Crowds Gather For Hindu And Muslim Festivals at Leicester, England
Ellis Maddison
14-03-2025
The city's first ever mass Iftar, which is the name of the meal eaten at sunset each evening during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, took place just after 18:00 GMT on Thursday.
"For me, every hurdle that I've had in terms of getting this done, has been made easy. It's just the spirit of Ramadan that's coming through," he said.
Two lines of people sat across from each other on a city street with a blue carpet between them and each person eating from a prepared meal bag.
Source: Www.Bbc.com
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Revival of the Darb al-Ahmar Trail | A trip to the Ramadan of Cairo between the past and the present
March 13, 2025
The procession begins at the castle, led by men carrying torches and sticks, performing rhythmic movements. Among them, musicians add to the spectacle, some astride camels, others on donkeys, beating drums or playing wind instruments. Together, they make their way through Cairo’s narrow streets, proclaiming to the people the arrival of the crescent moon and the first night of Ramadan.
A few centuries later, in the same place known as Bab al-Wazir, a loud voice echoes from the television: “Tomorrow is the first day of Ramadan.” Muhammad Ali decorates his restaurant, serving foul and taamia, and sets up tables in front of the Um Sultan Shaaban Mosque and school, where the procession passes that day. He prepares for his first Suhoor and the start of his busiest, most cherished season.
Unlike other restaurants in the area, his stands out. Nestled along the Darb al-Ahmar tourist trail, it sits at the crossroads of historic landmarks and traditional craft markets. The Darb al-Ahmar project, an initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, with funding from the European Union, has focused on restoring its mosques and revitalizing its shops.
For an approximate distance of 2 kilometers, the trail draws visitors to other worlds, featuring these days, in every corner, rituals of Ramadan as they were centuries ago.
“O followers of the best of God’s creation! Fast, fast!” The teams chant loudly, roaming every corner of Cairo to announce the arrival of Ramadan. Once news of the crescent sighting reaches the judge, mosques glow with lights, and lanterns are hung at their entrances and above their minarets.
The streets come alive as people gather, staying up late and singing in the alleys of Cairo’s Fatimid wall—a structure built in three phases. First, its founder, Jawhar al-Siqali, commander of the Fatimid armies, constructed it with mud bricks. Later, Badr al-Din al-Jamali, vizier of the Fatimid caliph al-MustansirBillah, reinforced it. Finally, during the time of Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi, it was extended from the citadel to Fustat, enclosing the entire capital.
A large part of the Salah al-Din wall remains, from which the electric “Golf Cars” provided by the tourist trail project are now taking visitors to various stops.
The car winds through the overlapping roads, and from inside, Leonardo watches the brown signs affixed to the chalky walls, marking the stops he is meant to take in the Darb al-Ahmar neighborhood, the historic city’s north-south axis. Just as the processions of sultans and popular festivals once moved from the citadel to the markets and palaces, Leonardo and his companions now follow the same route, tracing a path intentionally designed along the footsteps of those past processions.
Source: South.Euneighbours.Eu
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Scottish MP marks sixth anniversary of Chch terror attacks
Midday Report
14 March 2025
14-03-2025
A practising public surgeon in the National Health Service, he said it was his time on placement in Wellington that galvanised his ambition to pursue a career public health.
Speaking to RNZ, Ahmed said in the days, months and years after the 2019 attacks, he felt "a true sense" that New Zealand politics wanted to involve everyone.
With the increasingly polarised and sometimes inward-looking nationalism emerging from some countries in the past two to three years, it was easy to lose sight of that sense of belonging, Ahmed said.
Source: Www.Rnz.Co.Nz
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Diocese of Carlisle to create 90 ‘new Christian communities’ across Cumbria
by Madeleine Davies
14 March 2025
THE diocese of Carlisle has been awarded £6.8 million by the Strategic Mission and Ministry Investment (SMMI) Board for plans that include the creation of almost 90 “new Christian communities” across Cumbria over the next five years.
A press release issued on Monday said that there would be “a particular focus on helping local established churches to plant new Christian congregations in Barrow, Carlisle and in rural Derwent Deanery”, and investment in training more than 200 new leaders. Extra support would be offered to help under-25s to “spiritually flourish, grow in faith and become adult disciples”.
The latest award follows a grant of almost £600,000 agreed by the SMMI Board last year, some of which will be used to fund a new church-planting lead post in the diocese. Church-plants were “in the preparatory phase”, a diocesan spokesman said.
There are plans to support the growth of the church-plant St Aidan’s, Cumbria, which meets at St Bridget’s, Bridekirk. Part of the Binsey Benefice, it launched at the end of last year to serving the towns and rural communities around the A66 corridor in the northern Lake District, with a particular focus on those not currently engaging with the Church. It currently has a 3 p.m. Sunday service and has a children and families minister funded by the Norwegian Mission Society, a diocesan partner.
The almost 90 new Christian communities comprise five church-plants or revitalisations, 55 youth-, children-, and family-focused new worshipping communities (NWCs), and 29 other NWCs. The diocese’s reference to “new Christian communities” rather than Fresh Expressions follows a broader shift in language documented in a report by Cranmer Hall last year, New Things (News, 16 August 2024).
Source: Www.Churchtimes.Co.Uk
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Pakistan
Baloch attack: Pak points finger at Afghanistan, says 'We have evidence'
Mar 13 2025
Pakistan accused India of sponsoring terrorism on Thursday without directly implicating it in the Balochistan train attack that killed 21 passengers.
Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan at the weekly press briefing was asked several questions about the deadly attack on Tuesday, which led to a hostage situation lasting for more than 24 hours.
Terrorists were in direct communications with Afghanistan-based planners throughout the incident, he said, adding that Pakistan has repeatedly asked Afghanistan to deny the use of its soil for terrorist groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) for their attacks against Pakistan.
We urge Afghanistan to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers, of this reprehensible act of terrorism accountable and cooperate with the government of Pakistan to bring all those who are concerned with this attack, including the real sponsors of terrorism to justice, he said.
When asked about any change of policy because India was blamed in the past for any activity by the BLA, while this time finger was pointed towards Afghanistan, the spokesman said there was no change in the policy.
Source: Www.Business-Standard.com
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Two relief trains start lifting coaches derailed in Balochistan terror attack
Khalid Hasnain
March 14, 2025
LAHORE: As a major operation to rescue passengers and crew of the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express has been accomplished by the security forces, Pakistan Railways (PR) on Thursday launched a relief operation to lift the derailed coaches of the train and clear the track after necessary repair and maintenance.
On the other hand, the PR has confirmed martyrdom of its two officials by the terrorists, stating that the families of the deceased staffers and the passengers would be compensated under the insurance cover and the prime minister’s package, according to PR’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amir Ali Baloch.
“The PR’s field formations concerned (Quetta and Sibbi railway stations) have arranged two relief trains having heavy cranes and other equipment. Both trains are currently at the incident site and busy in the relief operation to lift the coaches derailed due to blast by the terrorists on the track. The engineering officials reached at the site through the relief trains have also started repair of the track,” Mr Baloch said while talking to Dawn.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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Imran assails transfer of judges to IHC
Malik Asad+
March 14, 2025
ISLAMABAD: PTI founder Imran Khan has filed a constitutional petition in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, challenging the transfer of judges from other provinces to the Islamabad High Court (IHC).
The petition, filed under Article 184(3) of the Constitution, alleged the transfers were a deliberate attempt to undermine judicial independence and manipulate the judiciary for political gains.
The petition, submitted by Mr Khan’s legal team, raised serious concerns over the transfer of three judges from provincial high courts to the IHC in February.
The transferred judges included justices Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar, Khadim Hussain Soomro and Muhammad Asif from Lahore, Sindh and Balochistan high courts, respectively.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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Barbs fly even as NA resolves unity against terror
Iftikhar A. Khan
March 14, 2025
ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly on Thursday witnessed a heated exchange between lawmakers of the ruling PML-N and the opposition PTI, as the House unanimously adopted a resolution calling for national unity against terrorism and extremism.
The resolution, tabled by Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, condemned the recent hijacking of the Jaffar Express train in Balochistan and all forms of terrorism that endanger citizens’ lives. The House vowed to take “every possible measure to eliminate terrorism” and pledged that no terrorist activity would go unchecked.
It affirmed that “no group, no individual and no ideology that seeks to undermine our nation’s peace, prosperity and sovereignty will be allowed to spread fear, hatred or violence within the territorial limits of the country”.
The National Assembly also committed to “working relentlessly to root out terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, ensuring that those who attempt to destabilise the country face the full force of the law”.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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Police tighten security outside detention centre for Afghan refugees in Rawalpindi
Mohammad Asghar
March 14, 2025
RAWALPINDI: As operations to round up Afghan nationals seeking refuge in Pakistan continue across the district, the police have stepped up security outside a detention centre for Afghan refugees near Golra Mor.
The government has officially set a deadline of March 31 for Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders to leave Pakistan voluntarily. However, the process of detaining Afghan nationals, particularly those who do not have documentation, residing in Rawalpindi and Islamabad has been underway.
The Afghans, who are being detained in Rawalpindi, are held at a camp near Golra Mor. Such Afghans, who have proof of residence or cards up to the given period, are being released with an order that they cannot stay within the limits of Rawalpindi or Islamabad. Those without proof are being immediately deported back to Afghanistan.
The Rawalpindi police have also formulated a ‘regular security plan’ for the GolraMor camp, where a team of 40 officials headed by an SP has been deployed. The police have been deployed around the detention centre round the clock to ensure security, and the road in front of the detention centre has been declared a ‘red zone’ (highly sensitive area).
The police personnel deployed at the camp have been performing duties in three shifts, and CCTV cameras have also been installed to monitor the camp besides barbed wire and lighting arrangements. Complete details and records of every Afghan resident found in the camp are being compiled, while the use of mobile phones inside the camp has also been banned.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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Civil, military leaders must put their heads together: PM
March 14, 2025
QUETTA: A day after security forces ended the hostage crisis which led to the deaths of almost two dozen people in Balochistan’s Bolan region, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for national unity to eradicate terrorism from all parts of the country.
PM Shehbaz, who visited Quetta along with members of his cabinet to attend a high-level security moot at the CM’s Secretariat, told a press conference that 339 passengers were rescued, while 33 terrorists were killed in the rescue operation.
He said there was a need for Pakistan’s entire political leadership to sit with the military leadership to discuss the challenges that the country was facing.
“One challenge, in my view, is that there should have been complete unity on this, but unfortunately, there is a gap.” He emphasised the need to achieve consensus and vowed to provide security forces with the resources needed to fight terrorism.
“National unity and solidarity are needed more than ever. We will continue our politics, but on the crucial issue of saving the country from terrorism, we must stand as one,” he said. The premier said he would call a meeting for consultations to decide the next course of action.
Speaking about the Bolan attack, the prime minister said that while they had managed to save the lives of citizens in the recent incident, the nation could ill-afford a similar event again.
“For that, we must all play our role,” he said, referring to federal and provincial authorities. The prime minister asserted that the entire country could not prosper and develop if Balochistan’s pace of development did not catch up with other provinces.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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Mideast
Syrian leader signs constitution that puts the country under an Islamist group’s rule for 5 years
By GhaithAlsayed
March 13, 2025
DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Syria’s interim president on Thursday signed a temporary constitution that leaves the country under Islamist rule while promising to protect the rights of all Syrians for five years during a transitional phase.
The nation’s interim rulers have struggled to exert their authority across much of Syria since the Islamist former insurgent group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, led a lightning insurgency that overthrew longtime President Bashar Assad in December.
Former HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa is now the country’s interim president — a decision that was announced after a meeting of the armed groups that took part in the offensive against Assad. At the same meeting, the groups agreed to repeal the country’s old constitution and said a new one would be drafted.
While many were happy to see an end to the Assad family’s dictatorial rule of more than 50 years in the war-torn country, religious and ethnic minorities have been skeptical of the new Islamist leaders and reluctant to allow Damascus under its new authorities to assert control of their areas.
Abdulhamid Al-Awak, one of the seven members of the committee al-Sharaa tasked to draft the temporary constitution, told a news conference Thursday that it would maintain some provisions from the previous one, including the stipulation that the head of state has to be a Muslim, and Islamic law is the main source of jurisprudence.
But Al-Awak, a constitutional law expert who teaches at MardinArtuklu University in Turkey, also said that the temporary constitution includes provisions that enshrine freedom of expression and the media.
The constitution will “balance between social security and freedom” during Syria’s shaky political situation, he said, and will set up an “absolute and rigid separation” between legislative, executive and judicial authorities.
The text of the temporary constitution, published late Thursday, sets up a People’s Committee which will serve as an interim parliament until a permanent constitution is adopted and elections held. Two thirds of its members will be appointed by a committee selected by the interim president and one third by al-Sharaa himself.
The document says the state is “committed to combatting all forms of violent extremism while respecting rights and freedoms” and that “citizens are equal before the law in rights and duties, without discrimination based on race, religion, gender or lineage.” It stipulates that the army is a “professional national institution” and arms outside of its control are prohibited and designates “glorifying the former Assad regime” as a crime.
A new committee to draft a permanent constitution will be formed, but it’s unclear if it will be more inclusive of Syria’s political, religious and ethnic groups.
Al-Sharaa on Monday reached a landmark pact with the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led authorities in northeastern Syria, including a ceasefire and a merging of their armed forces with the central government’s security agencies.
The deal came after government forces and allied groups crushed an insurgency launched last week by gunmen loyal to Assad. Rights groups say that hundreds of civilians — mostly from the Alawite minority sect to which Assad belongs — were killed in retaliatory attacks by factions in the counteroffensive.
Source: Www.Baptistpress.Com
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‘No Impunity’: Israel Strikes Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Damascus
14-03-2025
Daylight Sortie Over Syrian Capital: The Israeli Air Force struck a Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) command center in Damascus on March 13. The site, located in the Dummar suburb of the Syrian capital, was being used to plan attacks against Israel and entrench the Palestinian terrorist group in Syrian territory, according to the IDF. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned the transitional government in Syria against fostering such ties. “Anywhere that terror groups organize against Israel, the extremist Islamist leader Jolani will find air force jets hovering above,” Katz said, using the nom de guerre of Syrian transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa.
‘Thousands’ of Hamas, PIJ Operatives: The IDF’s latest strike in Damascus came after Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar warned on March 10 that “there are thousands of Hamas and [Palestinian] Islamic Jihad activists in Syria, and they want to set our border on fire and create another front against Israel.” Sa’ar added that Israel is “determined to prevent any recurrence of the events of October 7th in all sectors,” including Syria.
Indefinite Stay on Syrian Hermon: While leading a March 11 press tour of the Syrian Hermon, which the IDF seized along with the buffer zone east of the Golan Heights following the December 2024 ouster of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Katz said the deployment could last “for an unlimited amount of time.” Katz explained that the IDF’s objectives are to enforce the demilitarization of southern Syria for Sharaa “to see the IDF watching him” and to be ready to deal with “any of his threats or those of his jihadist friends.”
“Recently, Israel stood alone in the West, warning against the rush to reengage with the Syrian regime. That caution proved more than justified when regime loyalists carried out brutal massacres against Syrian minorities. Israel is also right to target Palestinian terror groups like Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which for decades found safe haven under Assad’s rule — united by their shared Iranian patronage and deep-seated hostility toward Israel.” — Mark Dubowitz, CEO
Source: Www.fdd.org
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Israel targets what it says was an Islamic Jihad command center in Damascus
March 13, 2025
By Jane Arraf
DAMASCUS — An Israeli airstrike targeted an apartment building in a residential neighborhood in the Syrian capital on Thursday, aiming at what Israel said was a Palestinian militant "command center."
Neighbors in the building in the upscale Dumarneighborhood said the apartment had been vacant for several years. A Syrian housekeeper in an apartment next door was seriously injured in the attack.
"It's unacceptable that whenever they want to attack someone, they attack a residential area," said Mohammad Hourani, a 40-year-old businessman, standing in his sister's damaged apartment next door to the flat gutted by an airstrike. "We are asking the president for a full investigation."
He said the housekeeper, who was hanging laundry on the balcony at the time, had been seriously injured and taken to the hospital with a head wound.
Israel carried out a wave of airstrikes on Syrian military bases and weapons dumps after the fall of the regime of Bashar al-Assad in December, saying the attacks were to prevent weapons getting into the hands of extremist groups. But strikes on the capital itself have been rare since the rebel movement that toppled Assad took power in December.
Source: Www.Npr.Org/2025
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UN experts accuse Israel of sexual violence and 'genocidal acts' in Gaza
David Gritten
14-03-2025
UN experts have accused Israel of increasingly using sexual and gender-based violence against Palestinians and carrying out "genocidal acts" through the systematic destruction of maternal and reproductive healthcare facilities.
A report commissioned by the UN Human Rights Council documents alleged violations, including rape, in Gaza and the occupied West Bank since Hamas's 7 October 2023 attack on Israel triggered the Gaza war.
It also says the destruction of maternity wards in Gaza and embryos at a fertility clinic could indicate a strategy to prevent births among a particular group - one of the legal definitions of genocide.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded angrily, calling the Human Rights Council "an antisemitic, rotten, terrorist-supporting and irrelevant body".
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory was established by the UN Human Rights Council in 2021 to investigate all alleged violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.
The three-member commission said its new report was based on testimony from victims and witnesses of sexual and reproductive violence, some of whom spoke during two days of public hearings held in Geneva earlier this week, as well as verified photos and video footage, and information from civil society and women's rights organisations.
Source: Www.Bbc.Com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyr154314vo
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US Mideast envoy proposes 50-day ceasefire extension in Gaza: Reports
By Said Amori
13.03.2025
US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff has put forward an updated proposal to extend the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip by 50 days, The Jerusalem Post reported Thursday.
“A new outline for an updated hostage-ceasefire proposal is on the table,” after Witkoff's visit to Qatar, said the newspaper, citing an unnamed source.
Under the plan, “Hamas would release around five living hostages as well as the bodies of dead hostages. In exchange, Israel would allow a 50-day ceasefire, starting from March 1,” it said.
Separately, the American news website Axios, citing four unnamed sources, said Witkoff pitched the updated proposal Wednesday in the Qatari capital and it includes the resumption of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Source: Www.Aa.com.tr
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South Asia
UN chief António Guterres visits Bangladesh to assess state of Rohingya
March 14, 2025
UN Secretary-General António Guterres is on a four-day visit to assess the situation of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh as fears mount of serious aid cuts following Washington’s decision to shut down USAID operations.
Bangladesh’s interim government — which came to power last August — hopes the visit will boost international efforts to mobilise aid for the Rohingya refugees.
A letter from the World Food Program earlier this month said cuts to food rations could take effect from next month at Cox’s Bazar, home to dozens of camps housing Rohingya refugees. The WFP said the food rations could be reduced to $6, from the current $12.50 per month — unless adequate funding is secured.
Source: Www.The Hindu.com
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India, Bangladesh conduct naval exercise amid diplomatic chill
Mar 13, 2025
NEW DELHI: Diplomatic ties between India and Bangladesh may have nose-dived since Sheikh Hasina’s ouster last year, but the military relationship continues as before. The navies from the two countries have just concluded a combat exercise and coordinated patrol in the Bay of Bengal this week.The bilateral 'Bongosagar’ exercise, in which Indian destroyer INS Ranvir and Bangladeshi frigate BNS Abu Ubaidah took part, facilitated “collaborative responses to shared maritime challenges” and enhanced interoperability between the two navies, an officer said on Thursday.
The latest edition of the annual exercise, which began in 2019, involved a range of complex operations encompassing surface firing, tactical manoeuvres, underway replenishment, communication drills, and VBSS (visit, board, search and seizure) operations.
“The exercise provided a wonderful opportunity for both navies to develop closer links in tactical planning, coordination and information sharing for undertaking seamless maritime operations,” the official said.
Source: Www.The Hindu.com
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Torkham border dispute talks collapse as Afghanistan walks out
Mar 14, 2025
Islamabad [Pakistan], March 14 (ANI): Talks between Afghan and Pakistani jirgas to resolve the 19-day Torkham border dispute collapsed after the Afghan delegation walked out, accusing Pakistan of not taking the talks seriously, Geo News reported, citing sources.
According to sources, the dispute between Afghanistan and Pakistan started nearly three weeks back when Afghan forces began making structures in Pakistani territory near the Torkham border, Geo News reported, citing The News.
Pakistan raised objections over the construction of structures by Afghan forces, leading to increasing tensions and the suspension of trade and cross-border movement. The closure of the border has disrupted businesses and impacted travellers on both sides.
Four days ago, Pakistan and Afghanistan established jirgas, comprising tribal elders, businessmen, and officials, to address the issue. During the first meeting held two days ago, the two delegations agreed to a ceasefire and further talks to address the construction and restore border operations.
Source: Www.Tribuneindia.com
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WFP concerned as 47 Trucks remain stranded at Torkham Border in Pakistan
By Fidel Rahmati
March 13, 2025
The World Food Program (WFP) in Afghanistan has expressed concern over the continued closure of the Torkham border crossing. The agency reported that at least 47 trucks carrying United Nations food supplies are stranded on the other side of the Torkham border in Peshawar, Pakistan.
On Wednesday, March 12, the WFP issued a statement saying that if the Torkham crossing is reopened, it would allow the resumption of food shipments from the agency’s warehouse in Peshawar by mid-March.
The report further stated that the trucks, which are carrying 1,200 tons of humanitarian aid, primarily food, have been stuck at the Torkham border. Many of these trucks have been waiting for weeks to cross.
Source: Www.khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/wfp-concerned-as-47-trucks-remain-stranded-at-torkham-border-in-pakistan/
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UN: Opium prices in Afghanistan skyrocket to $750 per Kg
By Fidel Rahmati
March 13, 2025
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has reported a significant rise in the price of opium, reaching $750 per kilogram in 2024, ten times more than in 2022. Despite a reduction in production, high prices continue to benefit major drug traffickers.
According to the UN, the reduction in drug production following the Taliban’s ban on opium led to a decrease in heroin and opium trafficking, with seizures of these substances dropping by about 50% since 2021.
The UNODC stated that the high price per kilogram still generates large profits, mainly benefiting high-level traders and exporters within organized criminal groups.
Source: Www.khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/un-reports-opium-prices-in-afghanistan-skyrocket-to-750-per-kg/
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North America
How Donald Trump Conned Muslims and Palestinian Americans
March 14, 2025
It was not long after the 2024 election that Arab Americans and Muslims who had voted for Donald Trump realized they had been had.
An election poll conducted by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) showed that Vice President Kamala Harris won a measly 20 percent of Muslim votes, while former President Donald Trump narrowly beat out Harris with 21 percent. The big winner among Muslim voters was Green Party candidate Jill Stein who came away with a whopping 53 percent of Muslims’ votes.
The reason: Gaza. The Biden Administration’s unqualified support for Israel’s genocidal war on the people of Gaza was a slap in the faces of Muslim and Arab American voters. Kamala Harris also lost votes due to several incidents where the Harris campaign seemed to go out of its way to alienate Muslim and Arab American voters.
Green Party candidate Jill Stein, who was unequivocally opposed to US support for Israel, called for a ceasefire in Gaza and an embargo on US arms shipments to Israel. Harris ought to have done the same.
Donald Trump??? The Donald Trump who in 2017, in one of his first acts as president, had instituted a Muslim travel ban??? That Donald Trump???
Source: Www.Counterpunch.Org
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https://www.counterpunch.org/2025/03/14/how-donald-trump-conned-muslims-and-palestinian-americans/
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Trump Officials say Immigration Detention Centers are Full
By Fidel Rahmati
March 13, 2025
The U.S. immigration detention centers for illegal immigrants are at full capacity, housing 47,600 detainees. According to Reuters, this was stated by a senior official from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a call with reporters on Wednesday.
The official, who chose to remain anonymous, stated that ICE, in collaboration with the Department of Defense and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, is working to increase the detention facilities’ capacity to manage the growing number of detainees.
Currently, ICE’s budget has been allocated to house 41,500 migrants, but the Trump administration plans to expand this capacity further. The goal is to ensure enough space to handle the increasing number of detainees due to tighter immigration policies.
Tom Homan, a senior official in the Trump administration, stated that the U.S. needs at least 100,000 detention beds to enforce its deportation policy effectively. This would significantly increase the detention capacity to accommodate the anticipated surge in migrants.
Source: Www.khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/trump-officials-say-immigration-detention-centers-are-full/
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Indosat Enhances Network Capacity to Support Increased Demand During Ramadan
Ray Sharma
March 14, 2025
IndosatOoredoo Hutchison (Indosat or IOH) is committed to ensuring seamless communications for its customers during the holy month of Ramadan and Idulfitri 1446H, allowing them to stay connected when returning home to see their families and loved ones across Indonesia during this blessed period.
To guarantee a superior network experience, Indosat has launched the Reliable Network Quest to monitor network performance and enhance capacity and coverage in high-traffic areas. This initiative ensures customers can enjoy a stable and robust connection wherever they are in Indonesia. The quest covers two primary routes: Jakarta–Lampung–Palembang and Jakarta–Yogyakarta–Malang, focusing on strategic corridors crucial for homecoming travelers.
With increased mobility during Ramadan and Idulfitri, the demand for stable connectivity for calls, messaging, and internet access is expected to rise significantly.
Source: Www.Thefastmode.Org
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City attorney says Muslim Minneapolis City Council members can’t host iftar in a city building
By Deena Winter
March 14, 2025
Several Muslim Minneapolis City Council members say they’re disappointed that the city attorney has put the brakes on their plan to hold an iftar Friday in a city building using city funds.
Council Vice President Aisha Chughtai and Aurin Chowdhury, Jamal Osman and Jeremiah Ellison — the council’s four Muslim members — had planned to host the iftar in the Public Service Building in downtown Minneapolis.
In a letter to the more than 100 people who had signed up to attend the meal, Chughtai, Chowdhury and Osman called the event an “interfaith gathering.”
They said they were “profoundly disappointed” after City Attorney Kristyn Anderson and City Operations Officer Margaret Anderson Kelliher told them this week that they were not allowed to host the meal in a city-owned building or use city resources to pay for it.
Source: Www.startribune.com
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https://www.startribune.com/minneapolis-city-council-muslim-iftar-cancelled/601235431
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Ramadan And The Best Charity – OpEd
March 14, 2025
By Rabbi Allen S. Maller
Prophet Muhammad was asked: “Which charity is best?” He responded “Charity given during Ramadan.” Jami` at-Tirmidhi 663 – Book 7, Hadith 47 – Vol. 2, Book 2, Hadith 663
During the COVID-19 pandemic, churches had fewer people in the pews, more money in the collection plate and (thank God), less conflict within their congregation than they had in 2020.
Those are among the findings of a report from the Hartford Institute for Religion Research, part of a five-year study of the impact of the pandemic on America’s Churches, Synagogues, Mosques and Temples.
The report drew from surveys for 4,809 congregations from 58 denominational groups, including an oversampling of 20 smaller denominations, as part of the Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations study.
Half of churches reported decline, while a third reported growth which is similar to the pattern at the beginning of the pandemic, according to the report.
Giving at congregations went up by about 42% over the past three years, from a median of $120,000 in 2020 to $170,000 in 2023. Even adjusting for inflation, this still represents a remarkable increase of over 25% since 2020 according to the report.
Giving to religious groups — including congregations and other faith-based charities — grew by 5.2% in 2022, according to the Giving USA report. Those religious donations made up 27% of all giving to charity.
Most American Jews support Israel, especially when Israel is under attack, so funding to help Israelis wounded during the war against Hamas has grown exponentially. The Jewish Federations of North America, an umbrella group, has raised almost $850 million since the war began, and private foundations have topped that with at least $1 billion in aid, according to Alliance, a British philanthropy newsletter.
Religion was the only sector in the Giving USA report where giving went up. I believe that in the next two decades will see a major religious revival.
The first major sign of this revival is the National Catholic Educational Association said that nationwide US enrollment in Catholic schools increased by 62,000 to about 1.68 million students, marking the first increase in two decades and the largest jump it has recorded in at least five decades. And a new survey says 95% of congregants plan to give the same or more in 2024 (only 10% feel they did enough last year) according to the 2024 Giving in Faith report.
A second sign from the UK is the Liberal Jewish movement experiencing a surge in conversions to Judaism with community leaders saying the pandemic has made people reflect more on faith. Some of the new applicants are motivated by traditional reasons, such as a Jewish marriage partner. But many have little previous Jewish connections.
Liberal Judaism reports that 139 people registered to go through its conversion process in 2021. The number is double the 2019 total of 70 and a significant rise on the 93 registering in 2020. About half had some Jewish ancestry, half had none at all.
The same doubling is found in Los Angeles where On October 31, 2023 Benjamin Wright, the Associate Director of the Introduction to Judaism Program told me that the annual number of conversions in the 10-years pre-pandemic averaged 300; and rose to 650 for July 2022-June 2023. This only applies to conversions of students that use the AJU Community Mikvah. The actual number is higher but locally about one-third of students are converting.
In my 65 years as a Reform Rabbi I have helped hundreds of non-religious people to become Jewish through conversion to Reform Judaism. Among them were many ex-Evangelicals and Protestant fundamentalists who rejected the following six beliefs and replaced them with Judaism.
1 They heard fundamentalists claim that there is only one way (our way) to attain Heaven or Nirvana. Judaism teaches many paths that can lead ethical people to God’s peace.
2 They heard fundamentalists claim that the afterlife is more important than life in this world of suffering, sorrow and sin. Judaism teaches that one hour of repentance and good deeds in this world is better than the whole afterlife.
3 They heard fundamentalists claim that sacred scriptures must be read and believed. Judaism teaches that sacred scriptures must be studied and understood.
4 They heard fundamentalists claim that sacred scripture must be taken literally. Judaism teaches that every verse of scripture has 70 different interpretations.
5 They heard fundamentalists claim that questioning undermines true faith. Judaism teaches that the youngest child should ask at least four questions.
6 They heard fundamentalists claim that religious truth must be universal and absolute. Judaism teaches that our covenant is unique to us. Others have their truths.
Amos, a farmer-turned-prophet, preached during a time of surging national optimism: “Look, the days are coming…when I will send a famine through the land; not a famine of bread or a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord. People will stagger from sea to sea and roam from north to east seeking the word of the LORD, but they will not find it.” (Amos 8:11-12)
Of teens and young adults who say they are affiliated with an organized religion, 52% say they have little or no trust in organized religion according to the “State of Religion and Young People” study which surveyed more than 10,000 Americans ages 13 to 25 about their involvement in, and feelings about, religion.
The study also found that 60% of teens and young adults who are not involved with an organized religion described themselves as at least slightly spiritual; 19% said they attend religious gatherings at least once a month, and 12% of unaffiliated young people have become more religious in the last 5 years.
Source: Www.Eurasiareview.Com
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https://www.eurasiareview.com/14032025-ramadan-and-the-best-charity-oped/
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A difficult era for American Jews, including in Utah
By Sydney Jezik
March 13, 2025
Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt struck a troubling contrast in his recent State of Hate address, that he titled, “Never is Now.”
While Greenblatt thanked God for a possible end to the Israel-Hamas war, he also highlighted the deep, growing sense of fear experienced by American Jews.
“The ground beneath us has profoundly shifted since (Oct. 7),” he said. “We are in a new era. One (researcher has said) that the ‘golden age’ of American Jewry is over.”
A survey out from the American Jewish Committee in February found that a majority (56%) of American Jews report that they have changed their behavior due to the rise in antisemitism since Oct. 7, 2023.
Source: Www.Deseret.Com
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https://www.deseret.com/faith/2025/03/13/acj-report-on-antisemitism-behavior/
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The pandemic and Pope Francis
By Peter Wolfgang
Mar 13, 2025
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The pandemic began five years ago today. For me, at least. And by “pandemic,” I really mean the lockdown. I think that is what most of us mean when we talk about that era.
At the close of business on Thursday March 12, 2020 Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont issued “Executive Order #7,” forbidding gatherings of 250 or more people. My organization, Family Institute of Connecticut, huddled with the Connecticut Catholic Conference and the March for Life all the next day and finally, on Friday the 13th, we sent out simultaneous messages cancelling what would have been the first Connecticut March for Life.
It was finally held in 2022 and every subsequent year. Next Wednesday, March 19th at noon at the state capitol in Hartford, will be for the fourth CT March for Life. I hope you will join us.
Source: Www.Catholicculture.Org
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https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/pandemic-and-pope-francis/
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Africa
Ramadan: Care for the less privileged, Customs CG urges Muslims
14th March 2025
The Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, AdewaleAdeniyi, has called on Muslims to use the Ramadan period to support and empower the less privileged in the society.
Adeniyi made the call on Thursday evening in Abuja at the Al-Habibiyya Mosque breaking of fast (Iftar) and daily feeding of about 2, 500 fasting Muslims and less privileged.
He described the initiative as a reflection of Islamic teachings on caring for the less privileged, while calling on other organisations to emulate the laudable gesture.
“This is an injunction of Almighty Allah. This is what we should do during fasting; care for those that are less privileged through programmes like this.
“We should have more of these in different parts of the country because many people are fasting and wondering how they will break their fast.
Source: Punchng.Com
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https://punchng.com/ramadan-care-for-the-less-privileged-customs-cg-urges-muslims/
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A Libyan Town Comes Together to Make a Beloved Ramadan Dish
14 March 2025
Every year during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, a Libyan town comes together to prepare — and share — one of their all-time favorite dishes: bazin.
In Tajoura, just east of Libya's capital of Tripoli, it's the perfect food for iftar, the evening meal when Muslims break the dawn-to-dusk fasting of Ramadan.
Savory and rich, bazin is usually made of unleavened barley flour and served with a rich stew full of vegetables and — hopefully — mutton. If those aren't available, which they often haven't been in the past decade and a half due to Libya's violence and turmoil, a simple tomato sauce will do.
Volunteers prepare Bazin, traditional Libyan dough bread made of barley or whole wheat flour and often served with stew in Tajoura, east of Libya's capital Tripoli, Tuesday, March 11, 2025, during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. (AP)
Preparing it is a joint effort, and Tajoura residents of all ages are eager to help with roles from making the bread, handing it out to the poor or donating ingredients to the community.
Typically, the men of Tajoura volunteer to make the bread in a makeshift communal kitchen, using long wooden sticks to stir the barley flour water in large pots to make the dough.
Source: English.Aawsat.Com
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https://english.aawsat.com/culture/5121810-hong-kong-museum-puts-picasso-cross-cultural-dialogue
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Another Miyetti Allah vigilante member assassinated in Kwara
March 13, 2025
By Abdulrazaq Adebayo
Another member of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Kwara State chapter, identified as Dabe, has been assassinated by unknown assailants.
Dabe, a vigilante member, was allegedly assassinated by unknown gunmen on Tuesday night at Kanbi town on Ilorin-Jebba highway, Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State.
He was the second victim of assassins’ bullet in two weeks, an insider in the association informed DAILY POST on Wednesday in Ilorin.
Source: Dailypost.Ng
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https://dailypost.ng/2025/03/13/another-miyetti-allah-vigilante-member-assassinated-in-kwara/
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Muslims lament hike in fruit prices, seek review
14 March 2025
Muslim faithfuls are groaning under the high cost of fruit in the market as they called for price review. According to them, the usual practice of breaking the Ramadan fast with fruits is fast becoming a luxury because of the hike in prices of fruit.
A survey by The Guardian revealed that prices of fruits have surged between 200 and 300 per cent in less than six months. For instance, a pineapple fruit, which was sold for N500 in 2024 has skyrocketed to N1,500 and N2,000.
One apple which normally goes for N200 is now N500, while a bunch of bananas which were sold between N500 and N700 last year, now go for between N1,200 and N1,300.
Similarly, one orange is sold for between N100 and N200 against N50. Speaking with The Guardian, AlhajiIdowuAminu, lamented that many Muslims have boycotted fruits due to a hike in price and focus on filling their belly with whatever food they can afford.
He said: “We read that foodstuffs are getting cheaper, but it’s a farce. Imagine a civil servant on a N100,000 salary and needs to stock up the house; how much can N100,000 afford the person? Rice is still high, so what is left for a worker earning that amount?
Source: Guardian.Ng
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https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/muslims-lament-hike-in-fruit-prices-seek-review/
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Church Times Train-A-Priest (TAP) Fund Africa continues
14 March 2025
WE KNOW that our readers have many claims on their generosity, but we ask them to consider donating this Lent to TAP Africa, the extension of the annual Church Times Train-A-Priest (TAP) Fund.
A large legacy a few years ago means that TAP grants are available to any English ordinands who experience financial difficulties. (These are disbursed by the Ministry Division.) Thus we are able, for the fifth year running, to turn our attention to ordinands in Africa, many of whom lack the basic support for themselves and their families that is available in wealthier countries.
Source: Www.Churchtimes.Co.Uk
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/mosques-friday-prayers-holi-colours/d/134874