Status of Policing in India Report finds unprecedented rise in Islamophobia
New Age Islam News Bureau
1 April 2025
A citizen holds a placard during a peace vigil organized by citizens against what they say is rise in hate crimes and violence against Muslims in the country, in New Delhi, India, April 16, 2022. (Reuters Photo)
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· Status of Policing in India Report finds unprecedented rise in Islamophobia
· Zardari asks Sindh ministers, lawmakers to resolve public issues on priority basis
· Trump says ‘real pain is yet to come’ for Houthis, Iran
· Unity in diversity among global pilgrims celebrating Eid in Makkah
· Minister addresses concerns over government engagement with those accused of extremism
· Bodies of three missing US soldiers found in Lithuania
· PDP Governors Urge Peaceful Coexistence Among Nigerians
· Al-Falah USJ 9 Mosque opens doors to those affected by Putra Heights fire
· Several hurt, vehicles torched as BNP, Jamaat clash in Rajshahi
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India
· AIMIM leader Jaleel demands UAPA against Beed mosque blast culprits
· UP anger at bar on namaz on road: Protesters accuse government of bias
· Jaipur: Hindu men shower flowers on Muslims celebrating Eid, call for unity
· Mumbai: 10 booked for assaulting group carrying saffron flags near mosque
· ATS team lands in Beed to investigate mosque blast case
· Ghost Of Aurangzeb Comes Back To Haunt Nagpur
· Governor set to put 4% Muslim quota bill under legal microscope
· PUCL condemns communal violence in Nagpur, seeks impartial inquiry
· Supreme Court dismisses challenge to Allahabad high court’s Sambhal mosque order
· UCC will prevent crimes like Shraddha Walkar murder: Uttarakhand CM
· HistoriCity: Rajasthan’s Bayana houses a neglected gem, India’s oldest Idgah
· Lost rite: Editorial on how the public iftaar has become a thing of the past
· Eid sermons across Kol preach message of peace, love and unity
· Amid strict vigil, Eid-ul-Fitr namaz offered peacefully in Uttar Pradesh
· Opposition misleading Muslims on Waqf Bill: Rijiju
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Pakistan
· Maternal uncles among four who raped, killed minor girl in Bahawalpur
· Deportation plan comes under international scrutiny
· Sit-in will continue until our women reach home after being released: BNP’s Mengal
· Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry visits UK, discusses bilateral issues
· CM Murad wants key interchange completed within three months
· Makeshift mechanical rides banned on Eid
· Sahiwal PTI activist held over posts against COAS, state organs
· ASWJ worker shot dead in Karachi’s Quaidabad targeted attack
· President, PM emphasise lessons of gratitude, compassion on Eidul Fitr
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Mideast
· Three killed in Israeli strike targeting Hezbollah militant in Beirut
· At least 322 children reportedly killed in Gaza in 10 days: UN
· US says new Syria government ‘positive step’ but too early for sanctions relief
· International Quds Day: A Philosophy of Existence
· Gas explosion leaves 13 casualties at Uzbek mosque
· IRGC General Warns US in Reprisal for Trump’s Threat
· Leader says 'strong blow' will ensue any vicious act by US or Israel
· Yemen’s Houthis claim they shot down another American drone as US strikes pound country
· New Syrian Cabinet ‘won’t be able to satisfy everyone’
· Devastated Lebanon village marks Eid among its dead
· Syrians rejoice during first Eid after Assad’s fall
· Israeli finance minister Smotrich resigns from post as minister in government
· Can Lebanon’s new central bank governor break the cycle of economic crisis?
· The "Massaharji" Journey from Ramadan to Eid al-Fitr
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Arab World
· Worry-free worship: Children’s clubs lighten pilgrims’ load
· Taif governor receives officials for Eid Al-Fitr
· Saudi project clears 607 Houthi mines in Yemen
· Saudi Arabia launches Hajj packages for domestic pilgrims via Nusuk app
· Kingdom extends aid to global communities
· Historic market in Madinah fuels local economy
· New technology to purify drinking water will be expanded in Saudi Arabia
· Rare Kaaba interior coverings showcased at Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
· Haramain High-Speed Railway transports over 1.2 million passengers during Ramadan
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Europe
· At least five killed in explosion at Spanish mine
· Girl, 11, missing in Thames in east London
· UK braces for new US tariffs – media
· Britain’s State Broadcaster Just Aired an Eid Ceremony for the First Time.
· Worshippers at London mosque mark end of Ramadan
· Over 700 Muslims meet at John Smith's Stadium in Huddersfield to celebrate Eid
· 'Je suis Marine': European rightwingers react to Le Pen ban
· Le Pen attacks ban from running for public office as 'political decision'
· Single parents hit hardest by 'awful April' bill rises
· University student targeted by Trump leaves the US
· Historic Hamza Bey Mosque in Thessaloniki is Being Restored
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North America
· Ohio group gathers personal letters to connect with Muslims in prison for Eid
· US deports more alleged gang members to El Salvador
· Markets mixed as investors brace for Trump tariffs
· Le Pen conviction ‘a very big deal’ – Trump
· Gov. Abbott directs Texas Rangers to investigate Plano Islamic center's proposed development
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Africa
· Anambra Muslim leaders preach peace, endorse Soludo’s re-election bid
· State of emergency: We will emerge stronger – Fubara to Rivers peopleMarch 31, 2025By
· 2025 Hajj: Nigeria Faces Accommodation Crisis In Makkah
· Egyptian inmates’ ordeal in Sudan prisons
· Two killed in attack on Sudan refugee camp: medical source
· Olawepo-Hashim Salutes Muslim Faithful At Eid-el-Fitri
· Rivers: Fubara vows stronger comeback, urges peace
· Eid-el-Fitr: Low-key celebrations as Nigerians lament hardship
· Yobe urges civil servants to support govt policies
· I Could Not Bring Myself To Watch The Full Video – Northern Actress Fumes Over Edo Massacre, Calls For Justice
· Tension, Fear Engulf UromiAs Residents Abandon Homes Amid Police Crackdown
· House Of Representatives Fails To Secure Arrest Of NIMC Director-General
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Southeast Asia
· Donate surplus Aidilfitri food to help others and protect the environment
· Trader killed, 14 injured in head-on crash on rural road near Kluang
· Soldier who allegedly punched woman driver in Seremban accident released on police bail
· Gas pipeline blaze: Selangor govt activates relief centre at Putra Heights mosque
· Putra Heights gas pipeline blaze: PM Anwar urges state gov’t, relevant agencies to provide assistance
· 10 held over scuffle at firecracker sales site in Sungai Ara
· Report on fatal Titiwangsa LRT accident submitted to MOT, APAD
· Sultan Nazrin arrives at Indera Mulia Stadium to grace Perak state level Aidilfitri celebration
· Gas pipeline inferno: Anwar urges state govt, agencies to provide immediate aid
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SouthAsia
· Fakhrul hails ‘free and joyful’ Eid, hopes for restoration of democracy
· Islamic Emirate Urges Voluntary Return of Afghan Refugees Amid Deportation Concerns
· Narail freedom fighter killed in clash on Eid Day
· No Eid festivities for 2,500 tea workers in Sylhet
· Massive Protests Erupt in Egypt Against Palestinian Eviction Plan
· Pakistan begins forced deportation of Afghan migrants after March 31 deadline ends
· NPP’s volte-face from its own pledge on PTA
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/status-policing-india-report-islamophobia/d/135029
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Status of Policing in India Report finds unprecedented rise in Islamophobia
March 31, 2025
A citizen holds a placard during a peace vigil organized by citizens against what they say is rise in hate crimes and violence against Muslims in the country, in New Delhi, India, April 16, 2022. (Reuters Photo)
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The report comes after a survey of around 8,276 police personnel around 17 states and a Union Territory and interviews with several judges, lawyers and doctors.
The report sheds light on a shocking acceptance of violence around 22% of police personnel agree that the police can be violent towards suspects of serious offences. One third of police personnel, which makes up 28%, believe that the criminal justice system is too weak and slow. These personnel give preference for extra judicial measures over due process reveals the shocking report highlighting the concerning number of police officials accepting extrajudicial measures as a justified action.
The study also unveils discrepancies and omission of custodial deaths from the official data. The National Crime Records Bureau NCRB reported 76 custodial deaths, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) reported 90 and the National Campaign Against Torture (NCRB) listed around 111 cases. While NCAT data suggest that nearly 46% of the custodial deaths in 2020 where allegedly due to torture the NCRB data however, associates only one death in police custody due to physical assault in the same year. These discrepancies were highlighted in the report stating that there is no consistent and reliable official source on custodial deaths in the country.
The concerning rise of Islamophobia among police
The report also reveals a shocking increase in Islamophobia within the police. It highlights that a bigger proportion of police personnel believe that Muslims are naturally criminals and hold similar biases; however, Sikh policemen do not hold such views.
In the national capital, police personnel believe that Muslims are naturally prone to committing criminal offences for the most part. It mentions the harsh cows slaughter laws and punishments in states like Gujarat Odissa, Rajasthan and Maharashtra noting that police officials in the states showed their support for mob punishments in these cases.
It undermines that Muslims are more prone to torture for reasons like prejudices and the identification of Muslims as “marginalized.”
While the findings of the report suggest that a significant portion of police personnel have prejudices against Muslims a considerable percentage within them also believe that Muslims can get justice to a great extent; however, they report that such perceptions by the police due to already existing opinions about Muslims may not be the reality. When interviewed, many officers said that there is a need for more training in human rights, techniques for interrogation grounded on evidence and curbing the torture.
From questioning the data on custodial deaths to over incarceration of Muslims, the report raises serious questions on the functioning of the criminal justice system.
Other findings of the report
Majority of police officials believe that the public complaints against the police are “false and frivolous.”
The interviews with lawyers, judges and doctors bring out the challenges in ensuring accountability. The findings say that there are manipulated postmortem reports, collusion between police and few defence lawyers and lack of support for doctors who expose signs of torture.
In conclusion the report gives the strong message and calls for emboldening law enforcement for a greater commitment within the justice system. It suggests steps to be taken for improvement like more interaction between judicial Magistrate and arrested individuals alongside proper medical examinations while individuals are in custody. On custodial deaths, it calls for systematic and accurate data collection.
Source:muslimmirror.com
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https://muslimmirror.com/status-of-policing-policing-in-india-report-finds-rise-in-islamophobia-denial-of-justice-and-arbitrary-measures-taken-by-police/
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Zardari asks Sindh ministers, lawmakers to resolve public issues on priority basis
March 31, 2025
NAWABSHAH: A number of delegations comprising ministers, lawmakers and other Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders called on the party’s co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari at Zardari House in Nawabshah on Sunday and discussed with him the ongoing development schemes of their respective areas.
Mr Zardari, who is also the head of state, arrived in his home town on Saturday evening to celebrate the Eidul Fitr with his family members, other close relatives and fellow tribesmen. Party sources said that Mr Zardari will stay in Nawabshah for three days.
On his arrival, Mr Zardari was welcomed by Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Sindh Minister for Prisons Ali Hassan Zardari, MPAs Ghulam Qadir Chandio and Chaudhry Javed Iqbal Arain and other party leaders at Nawabshah airport.
During his meetings with visiting party leaders, ministers and lawmakers, Mr Zardari received a briefing on the pace of work on various development schemes of public interest. He asked them to ensure completion of these schemes on time and resolution of people’s issues at their doorsteps on a priority basis.
Mr Zardari is expected to visit his ancestral graveyard, Ballu Ja Quba, as usual during Eid days to offer fateha and shower rose petals on the graves of his relatives.
MNA Faryal Talpur, who heads PPP’s women wing, was present at the meetings.
Housing schemes for flood-hit people
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Sunday visited Allah WarayoSolangi, Soni Faqirani and Malook Khuhro villages in Ratodero and Naudero towns to inspect the ongoing construction of housing schemes for flood-hit people.
The schemes have been undertaken by Sindh Peoples Housing For Flood-Affectees.
Sindh Rural Support Organisation’s Dittal Kalhoro and Larkana Deputy Commissioner Sharjeel Noor Channa briefed him about the schemes and the work completed so far.
He was informed that out of 224 houses planned to be built in Allah WarayoSolangi village, 88 had already been constructed. Bilawal sat with the women from the affected families and inquired about the issues pertaining to their houses. He said the process of granting proprietary rights of these houses would be started after the Eid.
Regarding the housing scheme of Soni Faqirani village of Ratodero town, received a briefing and was informed that out of the planned 32 houses, 24 had been completed. Bilawal handed over papers of the proprietary rights of four houses to four the allottee women.
Speaking to the rain-hit families, he said PPP had promised construction of new houses and the very process was under way at a fast pace. “These houses would turn out to be your valuable assets in future,” he told the allottees. He said PPP aimed to economically empower the poor.
In village Malook Khuhro of Loond Union Council, Bilawal was informed that out of 114 sanctioned houses, around 70 were ready to be handed over to the allottees. He was briefed that under the scheme, 122,500 houses would be built for marooned people in Larkana district alone.
Bilwal noted that the Sindh government had undertaken the biggest ever housing project of for the people rendered homeless after the unprecedented rainfall and flooding in 2022.
During the visit, the PPP chairman was presented the gifts of Sindhi Ajrak and Cap.
Iftar reception
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Saturday evening attended an Iftar reception hosted for him by MPA Suhail Anwar Siyal in Anwarabad village.
PPP Sindh President Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, MNA Khursheed Junejo, MPA Jamil Soomro, Agha Siraj Durrani, MPAs Imtiaz Shaikh, Adil Altaf Unnar, Sardar Khan Chandio (chieftain of his tribe), Aijaz Jakhrani, QamarudinGopang (chairman district council Qambar-Shahdadkot), Safdar Mithani, Larkana Mayor Anwar Luhar, Aijaz Leghari (chairman district council Larkana) and PPP Larkana district general secretary Khair Mohammad Shaikh and large number of local residents also attended the reception.
Eid prayers
President Asif Ali Zardar and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari will offer Namaz-i-Eid in GarhiKhuhda Bakhsh Bhutto, according to Imran Hassan Jatoi, the information secretary of PPP’s Larkana district chapter.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1901384/zardari-asks-sindh-ministers-lawmakers-to-resolve-public-issues-on-priority-basis
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Trump says ‘real pain is yet to come’ for Houthis, Iran
April 01, 2025
This satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC shows four B-2 stealth bombers parked at Camp Thunder Cove in Diego Garcia on Saturday, March 29, 2025, as a U.S. airstrike campaign continues against Yemen's Houthi rebels. (AP)
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WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump vowed Monday that strikes on Yemen’s Houthis will continue until they are no longer a threat to shipping, warning the rebels and their Iranian backers of “real pain” to come.
“The choice for the Houthis is clear: Stop shooting at US ships, and we will stop shooting at you. Otherwise, we have only just begun, and the real pain is yet to come, for both the Houthis and their sponsors in Iran,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform.
Shortly after Trump’s threat, Yemeni rebel media said two US strikes Monday hit the island of Kamaran, off the Hodeida coast.
Houthi-held parts of Yemen have faced near daily attacks since the US launched a military offensive on March 15 to stop them threatening vessels in key maritime routes. The first day alone, US officials said they killed senior Houthi leaders, while the rebels’ health ministry said 53 people were killed.
Since then, rebels have announced the continued targeting of US military ships and Israel.
In his post Monday, Trump added that the Houthis had been “decimated” by “relentless” strikes since March 15, saying that US forces “hit them every day and night — Harder and harder.”
Trump’s threat comes as his administration battles a scandal over the accidental leaking of a secret text chat by senior security officials on the Yemen strikes.
It also comes amid a sharpening of Trump’s rhetoric toward Tehran, with the president threatening that “there will be bombing” if Iran does not reach a deal on its nuclear program.
The Houthis began targeting shipping after the start of the Gaza war, claiming solidarity with Palestinians.
Houthi attacks have prevented ships from passing through the Suez Canal, a vital route that normally carries about 12 percent of world shipping traffic. Ongoing attacks are forcing many companies into a costly detour around the tip of southern Africa.
“Our attacks will continue until they are no longer a threat to Freedom of Navigation,” Trump said.
The rising rhetoric from the Trump administration comes as it copes with the phone text scandal.
The Atlantic magazine revealed last week that its editor — a well-known US journalist — was accidentally included in a chat on the commercially available Signal app where top officials were discussing the Yemen air strikes.
The officials, including Trump’s National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, discussed details of air strike timings and intelligence — unaware that the highly sensitive information was being simultaneously read by a member of the media.
Trump has rejected calls to sack Waltz or Hegseth and branded the scandal a “witch hunt.”
“This case has been closed here at the White House as far as we are concerned,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Monday.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2595515/middle-east
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Unity in diversity among global pilgrims celebrating Eid in Makkah
TAREQ AL-THAQAFI
March 31, 2025
Volunteers distributed gifts and sweets to pilgrims and children at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and provided meals to those in need. (SPA/Supplied)
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MAKKAH: An atmosphere of love, diversity, and joy permeates the sacred precincts of the Grand Mosque as pilgrims from across the globe converge to experience Eid in this unique spiritual setting.
The first day of Eid commenced with dawn prayers at the mosque, where throngs of worshippers in white ihram garments — symbolizing unity and detachment from worldly matters — gathered in devotion.
Pilgrims exchanged warm congratulations and prayers, asking Allah to accept their worship and bless them in the coming year.
Following the Eid prayer, jubilation spread throughout Makkah’s streets, which teemed with pilgrims expressing their happiness through prayers and greetings in numerous languages.
This vibrant display embodied the rich cultural diversity that characterizes the Grand Mosque, creating an atmosphere of profound spiritual tranquility.
Many pilgrims took the opportunity to complete their Umrah rituals or circumambulate the Kaaba.
The celebrations included both religious observances and social activities. After prayers and circumambulation, some pilgrims visited other sacred sites like Jabal Al-Noor (Mountain of Light) and the Cave of Hira, while others explored Makkah’s bustling markets to purchase gifts and souvenirs.
These marketplaces pulsed with energy as worshippers bought prayer beads, copies of the Qur’an, oud, and traditional Makkah sweets.
Nasser Bukhari, a clothing merchant in the central district, observed that pilgrims proudly wear attire traditional to their homelands, transforming the Grand Mosque into a living canvas of Islamic diversity.
Some don white jalabiyya dresses, while others appear in vibrantly colored, embroidered traditional garments.
Women often choose colorful abayas adorned with intricate patterns reflecting their cultural heritage, with some combining traditional dress with abayas as a celebration of the joyous occasion.
The city’s hotels and restaurants thrive during Eid, offering special celebratory meals. Visitors gather around breakfast tables laden with dates, maamoul cookies, and Saudi coffee, while others seek out popular local dishes.
Traditional Makkan confections such as laddu, mushabbak, zalabiya, and debyaza are abundant, as pilgrims of all nationalities unite as one family bound by faith.
The humanitarian spirit of Eid is evident throughout the city, with volunteers distributing gifts and sweets to children and providing meals to those in need, while some pilgrims visit hospitals and orphanages bearing gifts and assistance.
As night falls, the illuminated Grand Mosque creates a breathtaking spectacle. Pilgrims continue their devotions or stroll through the mosque’s courtyards, savoring the atmosphere.
Yahya Noor, a Syrian physician, described the Eid celebrations in the city: “Here in Makkah, Eid extends beyond congratulations and festive foods to encompass charitable works and solidarity.
“Witnessing volunteers distribute gifts and meals to the needy made me feel part of a vast Islamic community that genuinely cares for its members.
“The organization is impeccable, with the flow of millions of pilgrims proceeding smoothly and efficiently,” he continued.
“When I entered the Grand Mosque at Eid dawn, I was moved to tears. Seeing the illuminated Kaaba surrounded by reverent worshippers made me truly appreciate this sacred place’s magnificence.
“The exchange of blessings and the atmosphere of love made me feel as though I were among family.”
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2595491/saudi-arabia
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Minister addresses concerns over government engagement with those accused of extremism
By LEE HARPIN
March 31, 2025
Nick Timothy MP (Screenshot from YouTube)
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A senior minister has addressed concerns over government engagement with individuals and groups accused of links with Islamist extremism.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis told MPs on Monday that the Labour government takes tackling extremism “incredibly seriously” but added it would not allow the matter to be used as a “political football.”
Jarvis also confirmed that a long-standing non-engagement policy with the Muslim Council of Britain, over concerns the organisation is not sufficiently representative and some of its former officials have made favourable remarks about extremists in the past, was still in operation, as it has been since 2009.
Tory MP Nick Timothy raised doubts about the government’s commitment to responsible engagement after citing instances at which the Prime Minister and other ministers have met with individuals or groups accused of Islamist extremism.
The MP for West Suffolk highlighted in the Commons the decision of Communities minister Jim McMahon to attend an iftar event last week organised by the European Islamic Centre.
Timothy told MPs that the organisation has links with the UK Islamic Mission – set up in 1962 by members of Jamaat e Islaami, to promote the party and the teachings of its founder, Abul Ala Maududi.
In a further post on X, the MP said Maududi is “a key Islamist ideologue.” He added:”And Jamaat e Islaami in South Asia is comparable to the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and beyond.”
Also in the Commons on Monday, Timothy noted Minister for Social Security Stephen Timms decision to attend an Muslim Council of Britain event in January, despite the government long-standing policy of non-engagement with the organisation.
Downing Street confirmed at the time that Timms had “been reminded of his duty to uphold collective responsibility.”
The MP also then raised a greeting given by the PM to the Imam Adam Kelwick at a recent Downing Street reception, claiming the preacher had urged congregants to “pray for victory” over Israel after the October 7 Hamas attacks.
“Why is the government so keen to spend time with, and lend legitimacy to organisations and people it says it opposes?” asked Timothy.
Responding, Jarvis, the Security Ministersaid:”We are not…. all ministers including the Prime Minister take these matters incredibly seriously, and we always engage in the most responsible way.”
Jarvis added he repeatedly reiterated the government’s non-engagement policy with the MCB.”
He continued:”We will tackle extremism wherever we find it.
“This government takes these matters incredibly seriously.
“We will never allow them to be used as a political football.”
Source:jewishnews.co.uk
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https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/minister-addresses-concerns-over-government-engagement-with-those-accused-of-extremism/
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Bodies of three missing US soldiers found in Lithuania
April 1, 2025
The bodies of three US soldiers, missing for six days, have been found in a muddy swamp near the Lithuanian city of Pabradė, where they were taking part in military drills, the US Army has confirmed.
Rescue teams are still searching for a fourth soldier.
"The soldiers we have lost in this tragedy were not just soldiers - they were a part of our family... But the search isn't finished until everyone is home", said Maj Gen Christopher Norrie in a statement issued by US Army Europe and Africa.
The complex search and rescue mission has included the US Army and Navy, plus Lithuanian and Polish Armed Forces in an effort that has required "tremendous resources", the statement said.
The four soldiers went missing on the morning of 25 March while carrying out an exercise in their M88A2 Hercules - a large armoured vehicle that is designed to recover damaged tanks and other vehicles from battlefields.
They were "conducting a mission to repair and tow an immobilised tactical vehicle" when they went missing, the statement said.
The soldiers' vehicle was found submerged in a bog near the border with Belarus early on 26 March. Pulling it out of the mud was a difficult mission.
US Navy divers were brought in to hook cables onto the sunken vehicle, and had to manoeuvre "through thick layers of mud, clay, and sediment with zero visibility", the statement said.
Those cables were then connected to another two M88A2 Hercules, which also started to slide into the bog, leading to several bulldozers being called on.
Other heavy construction equipment including excavators and sluice and slurry pumps were brought in, as well as technical experts and "several hundred tons of gravel and earth", the US Army said.
On Sunday, soldiers, military commanders and Lithuania's defence minister attended a mass that was held in the capital city, Vilnius.
"Lithuania mourns together with the American nation," the country's President Gitanas Nausėda wrote on X.
"Please accept my heartfelt condolences, as well as those of the Lithuanian people, to you, the loved ones of those who lost their lives, and all the people of the United States of America," he said, addressing US President Donald Trump.
Lithuania, a Nato and EU member, is the base for more than 1,000 American troops stationed on rotation.
The identities of the four soldiers, who were assigned to the 1st Armoured Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, have been withheld until their next of kin are informed.
They had been deployed to Lithuania as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve - a response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Their home base is Fort Stewart, in the US state of Georgia.
The US Army and Lithuanian authorities are investigating the cause of the accident.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8rgdl5x738o
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PDP Governors Urge Peaceful Coexistence Among Nigerians
By Leadership News
April 01, 2025
The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF) has urged Nigerians to continue to coexist peacefully.
The forum made the appeal in a congratulatory message to the Muslim Ummah on the completion of their month-long Ramadan fast which culminated in the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The governors tasked Nigerians to get involved in the process of peace building in order to get the country to work for the good of all citizens.
The director general of the forum, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, in a statement, said the completion of the month-long Ramadan fast which heralded and culminated in the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, provided a period for Muslims to reflect on the lessons of tolerance, love and sacrifice that the celebration typifies.
The statement added, “The Forum felicitates with Muslims from across the world for the dawn of another Eid-il-fitr, and pray that the Almighty Allah would accept their worship and keep them all alive and healthy to witness many more.
“And though the Ramadan season is over, we urge all Muslim faithful to continue to practise the lessons taught by the Holy Month by remaining pious and close to Allah and denying themselves in total submission to His will, not forgetting that as one of the key pillars of Islam, the Ramadan was important for developing the virtues of self-renunciation in every true Muslim.
“The Forum equally calls on all Nigerians to continue to live together harmoniously, coexist peaceful and dedicate this period of celebration to remain relentless in their prayers and support for its leaders, peace, security and unity of our dear country; even as we advocate that all Nigerians should get involved in the process of peace building in order to get the country to work for the good of all citizens,” the forum stated.
Source:leadership.ng
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Al-Falah USJ 9 Mosque opens doors to those affected by Putra Heights fire
Bernama
01-04- 2025
SHAH ALAM: Al-Falah USJ 9 Mosque in Subang Jaya near here has been opened to those affected by the gas pipeline fire in Jalan Putra Harmoni, Putra Heights.
In a post on the mosque’s Facebook account, it said that it remains open to individuals or families in need of temporary shelter or a place to rest.
“We at Al-Falah USJ 9 Mosque would like to inform that the mosque is now open to all those affected by the fire incident in the Putra Heights area and its surroundings.
“We stand with you during this challenging time. May Allah SWT ease all matters and protect everyone involved. Please contact the mosque representative at 03-80116949 or come directly to the mosque if you need any assistance,“ the post read.
Selangor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Wan Razali Wan Ismail said the fire involved a leak in a gas pipeline, approximately 500 metres long.
Source:thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/al-falah-usj-9-mosque-opens-doors-to-those-affected-by-putra-heights-fire-HN13877761
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Several hurt, vehicles torched as BNP, Jamaat clash in Rajshahi
Mar 31, 2025
Several people have been injured in a clash between activists of BNP and Jamaat in Bausa union of Rajshahi's Bagha upazila centring an earlier dispute.
The conflict erupted over allegations of irregularities in the distribution of Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) cards.
According to locals, earlier on March 20, Jamaat-e-Islami organised a human chain to protest the alleged fraud in the allocation of VGD cards. BNP men at the time allegedly attempted to obstruct the protest, leading to a confrontation between the two groups.
The tensions of that incident, escalated into violent clashes on Sunday.
Five motorcycles and a van were set on fire during the clash, while four shops were vandalised.
Among the injured are Rajib Ahmed, senior vice-president of the Bausa union unit of Chhatra Dal, and Saurav Ahmed, secretary of the union's Ward 1 Chhatra Shibir. Rajib was admitted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, while Saurav received treatment at Bagha Upazila Health Complex.
According to the witnesses, the violence began when Chhatra Dal activists allegedly attacked Shibir men. In retaliation, Shibir activists later assaulted BNP men. Following these incidents, BNP supporters allegedly ransacked shops and torched vehicles belonging to Jamaat sympathisers.
Meanwhile, Bagha upazila Jamaat-e-Islami held a press conference today condemning the recent attacks on its leaders and activists by individuals associated with the local BNP.
At the press conference, the local Jamaat leaders alleged that their peaceful protest against corruption in the union parishad was violently disrupted on March 20 under the leadership of president of BNP's Bagha unit Md Rejaul.
Following a police-mediated resolution on March 23, Jamaat claimed that BNP-backed attackers again targeted their members, including an attempted murder of a student leader on March 30.
Additionally, they reported attacks on their activists' homes and businesses, leading to injuries and financial losses. Jamaat demanded justice and urged authorities to take action against those responsible.
Contacted, BNP leader Rejaul, claimed that Rajib was having tea after iftar when a group of Shibir activists launched an unprovoked attack on him.
"Rajib is currently undergoing treatment at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital in a critical condition. No legal action has been taken yet. We will proceed once Rajib recovers," he said.
Bagha Police Station Officer-in-Charge AFM Asaduzzaman said a case has been filed by Jamaat regarding the incidents.
No arrests have been made yet. Police are investigating the matter to bring those responsible to justice, he added.
Source:thedailystar.net
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India
AIMIM leader Jaleel demands UAPA against Beed mosque blast culprits
March 31, 2025
Imtiaz Jaleel, a former Member of Parliament and AIMIM leader, called for the invocation of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against two individuals arrested in connection with a blast at a mosque in Maharashtra’s Beed district.
The blast occurred in the early hours of Sunday, just before the Gudi Padwa and Ramzan Eid celebrations, in Ardha Masla village, located in Georai tehsil. Fortunately, no one was injured in the explosion, though the internal structure of the mosque was damaged.
The two accused, Vijay Rama Gavhane (22) and Sriram Ashok Sagde (24), were arrested within hours of the incident. They are accused of attempting to plant gelatin sticks and cause a blast at the religious site. Jaleel, speaking to reporters after Eid prayers in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, demanded that the UAPA be invoked against them.
He pointed out a perceived disparity in how the law is applied, noting that if a Muslim individual is involved in even a minor incident, his property is demolished, but when a religious structure is targeted using explosives, the UAPA is not applied. He insisted that the law should be applied equally to everyone, regardless of their background.
The AIMIM leader also expressed appreciation for the police’s swift response in arresting the accused but reiterated the need for stronger legal measures, particularly the application of the UAPA, to deter such incidents in the future. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that perpetrators are punished strictly to prevent recurrence of such acts.
In addition to his remarks on the Beed mosque explosion, Jaleel criticized the demolition of the house of the accused involved in the violence in Nagpur. He questioned the fairness of demolishing the accused’s family home, arguing that it was unjust to punish the family members for the actions of one individual. He also questioned the role of local administration, which, according to him, had failed to take action on what was now being labeled as an encroachment.
An official from the Beed police confirmed that the two arrested individuals had been remanded to police custody until April 3. Jaleel’s demands reflect his concern for equal application of the law and his desire for tougher measures to tackle acts of violence targeting religious institutions. — With Agencies Inputs
Source:muslimmirror.com
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UP anger at bar on namaz on road: Protesters accuse government of bias
Piyush Srivastava
01.04.25
Over 500 people took to the streets near Shahi Eidgah in Meerut on Eid against the Yogi Adityanath government’s decision to ban namaz on roads.
The protesters, carrying posters and placards, alleged that the directive was biased against Muslims.
“Kya sirf Muslim sadko par namaz padhtehai? (Do only Muslims use the roads to offer namaz?)” a placard read.
“Hindu sadak par Holi khelte hain (Hindus play Holi on the roads),” read another.
“Kanwariyesadak par nikalte hain (Kanwariyas walk on the roads),” another poster said.
“Ramnavami yatra sadak par nikaltihai (Ramnavami processions are taken out on the roads),” the writing on a placard said, while another one stated: “Diwali kepatakhesadak par jalate hain (Firecrackers are burst on the roads in Diwali).”
The Uttar Pradesh government had banned namaz on roads in 2019 and instructed police to enforce the order on Eid this year strictly.
Ayush Vikram Singh, superintendent of police of Meerut city, said: “We are following instructions. We have deployed force to ensure that nothing untoward happens here. There is peace all over.”
“People often reach the mosques late and sit on the road to offer namaz. We prevented any such thing,” the officer added.
Some Hindutva groups have decided to complain against the Muslim protesters to the chief minister.
“It is a decision taken by the chief minister and the community must follow it instead of reminding us how we celebrate our festivals. Their protest was against the Hindus. We are going to file a complaint against them with the chief minister,” said Sachin Sirohi, secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Suraksha Sangathan.
About 130km north of Meerut, Muslims in Saharanpur offered namaz at several places wearing black armbands to protest against the Narendra Modi government’s decision to amend the waqf rules.
The Union cabinet recently approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, incorporating the changes recommended by the joint parliamentary committee, paving the way for it to be tabled in Parliament for discussion and passage.
In Moradabad, some youths chanted anti-government slogans near the Eidgah on Monday when police barricades prevented them from reaching the shrine in time to offer namaz. However, the police later made way for the devotees, and the chief of the mosque conducted a second session of namaz.
Satpal Antil, senior superintendent of police of Moradabad, said: “Everything happened here peacefully. There was no problem as people cooperated with the police.”
Source:telegraphindia.com
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Jaipur: Hindu men shower flowers on Muslims celebrating Eid, call for unity
March 31, 2025
In Jaipur, Rajasthan, a group of Hindu men participated in the Eid al-Fitr celebrations by showering Muslims with flowers, a powerful symbol of solidarity and communal harmony.
The gesture, which occurred at the Eidgah on Delhi Road, was organized by the Hindu-Muslim Unity Committee, reflecting the spirit of unity between the two religious communities.
Videos from the event captured the heartwarming moment of Hindu men distributing flowers to the Muslim attendees, who had gathered to offer their Eid prayers.
The prayers were led by Khalid Usmani, the Chief Qazi of Rajasthan, and attended by thousands of Muslims. This act of kindness and brotherhood comes at a time when there has been a rising Hindu right-wing campaign that has targeted India’s Muslim minority, stirring tensions between the communities.
The flower shower during Eid serves as a timely reminder of the importance of mutual respect and understanding amidst such challenges. The event was seen as a hopeful sign of the strength of unity and peace, with people from different religious backgrounds coming together in celebration of a shared commitment to harmony.
Source:muslimmirror.com
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Mumbai: 10 booked for assaulting group carrying saffron flags near mosque
April 1, 2025
Ten people were booked Sunday for allegedly assaulting a group of nine persons carrying saffron flags near a mosque at Pathanwadi area in Malad (East). After verification three of them were arrested late Sunday night.
According to a complaint by a Sakinaka resident, Rajkumar Choubey (37), who runs a mobile repairing store, the incident happened Sunday when he and his friends were going to attend a function at another friend’s place in Malad East.
While Choubey and his brother-in-law were travelling on a bike, his seven friends followed them in an autorickshaw carrying saffron flags, police said.
On the way, Choubey said, he received a call from one of his friends travelling in the autorickshaw, Ganesh Maurya.
“From Maurya’s voice, it seemed he was in trouble,” Choubey said in the complaint adding that he heard over the phone a man saying “hit them all”.
Choubey and his brother-in-law went back and found a crowd assaulting Maurya and others near a mosque, the FIR said.
In the complaint, Choubey alleged that he, his brother-in-law and his friends were assaulted by a group of men who also made communal remarks.
After police were informed, a team reached at the spot and brought the situation under control.
A police officer said that there were allegations of people wearing saffron and holding saffron flags while passing by the mosque chanting slogans like ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and it triggered a clash between them and the crowd present there after prayer offering. However, the other group claimed they were beaten up brutally with bamboo for just holding saffron flags while returning to their homes from the Gudipadwa procession. Some people were also putting efforts to save the fight.
“We detained five people and after scanning the CCTV footage established that three were involved in the violence, hence they were arrested. We are probing the matter from all angles,” said a senior police officer.
Based on the complaint, Kurar police in North Mumbai have booked 10-people, and arrested three of them on charges of unlawful assembly, assault as member of an unlawful assembly and causing grievous hurt.
A video of the incident has surfaced on social media which was shared by Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam alleging that police did not make any arrest due to pressure from an Uddhav Sena MLA.
Source:indianexpress.com
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ATS team lands in Beed to investigate mosque blast case
By Shrinivas Deshpande
Apr 01, 2025
PUNE A team from the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrived in the Beed district late on Sunday to investigate a possible terrorist angle in the recent mosque blast case. The incident took place in Ardhamsla village, raising concerns over security and communal harmony in the region.
According to authorities, the explosion occurred inside a mosque, causing damage to the structure and creating panic among residents. While no casualties have been reported, the nature of the blast has prompted a high-level probe.
The ATS team, along with forensic experts, is conducting a thorough investigation, collecting evidence and questioning witnesses to determine the cause of the explosion. Local law enforcement agencies are also assisting in the probe.
On Sunday, the arrested accused, Vijay Gavhane (22) and Shriram Sagade, were produced in the local court, and they were granted police custody for five days.
According to the Beed Police, ATS officials also questioned the accused duo and collected details about the bank accounts of the accused and began their parallel investigation. Officially, the case is handled by the local Crime Branch.
Meanwhile, after the blast on Sunday, Ardhamsla villagers showed harmony. On Sunday evening, villagers organised an iftar party at Mecca Mosque where the blast was conducted, and which was attended by all community members.
On Monday, Muslim community members organised ‘Eid namaz’, which is a ritual of Muslims during their Ramadan Eid celebrations at Mecca mosque where the blast was conducted. After the ‘Eid namaz’, Muslim community leaders thanked police officers for maintaining law and order in the village after the blast.
Blast part of Mahayuti’s motive to cause unrest: Cong
Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal on Monday alleged that a blast at a religious structure in Beed could be part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance’s motive to foment communal unrest in the state.
He alleged that the British-era policy of “divide and rule” is being adopted, and the politics of communalism is being spread in progressive Maharashtra.
“Unity in diversity is the hallmark of India and its people. Maharashtra Dharma is innately progressive, but it is facing the crisis of communalism,” Sapkal told reporters in Buldhana. The Congress leader said, “I hope the better sense prevails. The ruling alliance wants to keep Maharashtra turbulent, and the Beed Mosque blast could be part of that motive”.
Sapkal said the law-and-order situation is on the decline in Maharashtra, and criminals are roaming freely.
“In several cases, criminals are not found. The law-and-order situation is worrisome,’ he charged.
According to police, Maharashtra witnessed 823 incidents of communal unrest since January this year, including the violence in Nagpur, with demands for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb and the spreading of distorted facts on social media fomenting fresh trouble.
Source:hindustantimes.com
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Ghost Of Aurangzeb Comes Back To Haunt Nagpur
1 April 2025
When activists of the Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) torched an effigy of Aurangzeb on Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji’s birth anniversary in ‘Orange City’ Nagpur, the green cloth that wrapped it couldn’t go unnoticed.
On March 17, while the Vicky Kaushal-starrer Chhaava was still running to packed houses a month, with its depiction of the last years of Shivaji’s eldest son Sambhaji Maharaj and his execution by Aurangzeb, an arch-enemy of the Maratha empire, the activists had gathered beside the towering Shivaji statue at Shivaji Chowk demanding the removal of the 17th-century Mughal ruler’s grave at Khuladabad town in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, some 500 km away. Hindutva organisations and top BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Nitesh Rane, a minister in his cabinet, had already raised the same demand in the weeks following Chhaava’s February 14 release.
Hours after the effigy was burned, a mob of Muslim men descended on the residential areas around Shivaji Chowk in the evening, pelting stones at houses, damaging the parked cars and setting motorbikes on fire. Word had gone around that the green cloth wrapping the effigy that was burnt at the demonstration was a chador with Quranic verses on it. The ensuing clashes in the adjoining neighbourhoods of Bhaldarpura, Hansapuri and Tilak Road left one Muslim man dead, and 33 policemen, including three senior officers and a lady constable, grievously injured.
“It was on hearing that the burnt green cloth had verses from the Quran that a large crowd of Muslims came in the evening to protest near the Shivaji statue,” says Shafiq Ahmed, a resident of Bhaldarpura, one of the main sites where curfew is imposed. “As Muslims, we don’t mind the burning of Aurangzeb’s effigy or demands for the removal of his grave.”
Standing a few meters from the Shivaji statue in his Bhaldarpura neighbourhood, 42-year-old Sunny Davdharia says, “March 17 will be remembered as khatarnak (dangerous) in Nagpur’s history. Never had we seen anything so frightening. Hindus and Muslims had lived peacefully on opposite sides of the street for decades. What happened that day was shameful. Stones were hurled at our houses. The rioters were not our local Muslim brothers. They were outsiders.”
According to police officers and eyewitnesses, Minority Democratic Party leader Fahim Khan led a protest march to the Ganesh Peth police station demanding action against Bajrang Dal and the VHP for hurting the sentiments of Muslims. A large group of people raising slogans glorifying Aurangzeb arrived at the Shivaji statue, Muslims leaving the two local mosques after evening prayers also arrived in the street, leading to confusion. “After the evening prayers in the mosques, the maulanas appealed on the loudspeakers asking the namazis to disperse quietly,” recalls Mukhtar Ahmed, who offered namaz that day at the Tajao Raja masjid opposite the Shivaji statue. Over the next two hours, Muslim men armed with sticks, stones and knives went on a rampage, pelting stones at vehicles and houses of mostly Hindu families.
“They smashed the windows in front of our eyes,” says Pushpa Bansode, three of whose family’s cars were damaged. “We were too scared to step out until the mob left.” A few steps away the burnt remains of a car at the entrance to Ram Galli and seven cars with their windows smashed parked outside the row of houses stand as reminders of that fateful evening. “From 8.04 to 8.25 pm, we can see people in our lane carrying petrol bombs and sharp objects, attacking our two cars,” says 16-year-old Harsh Dahikar, showing the CCTV footage.
Four days later, it’s an unusually quiet Friday afternoon at the otherwise bustling marketplace surrounding the Shivaji statue, now guarded by a security cordon of makeshift ropes, metal gates and the watchful eyes of police personnel. The statue is right in front of the Jumma Darwaza, an early 18th-century stone arch that is all that remains of a wall around Chand Sultan Shah’s fortress in Mahal, the oldest and central part of the city.
Chand Sultan belonged to the Rajgond dynasty of indigenous Adivasis who had embraced Islam and ruled from nearby Deoghar until he shifted the capital to Nagpur. The gateway he built became a symbol of resistance in 1857 after the British hanged the bodies of nine freedom fighters, including eight Muslims, as a grim warning against rebellion. In the 1960s, after the formation of Maharashtra during the reorganisation of states on linguistic lines, the arch was renamed Gandhi Gate as a tribute to the martyrs.
Just a short distance away are the headquarters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Hedgewar Smruti Mandir, a memorial dedicated to the pioneers of the RSS—Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar—in Reshimbagh, along with the defunct historic office of the Hindu Mahasabha, which was established by Madan Mohan Malviya as a Hindu pressure group within the Indian National Congress a decade before the RSS was founded in 1925.
The syncretic fusion of Hindu and Islamic culture in the backyard of the Hindu-nationalist Sangh’s home ground of Mahal had given Nagpur a reputation as a secular and peaceful town. Muslim families in the lanes and neighbourhoods surrounding the RSS offices claim they never feared the Sangh or its activists.
“Muslims know that Sangh is peaceful and would never harm them,” says RSS activist Amol Pusadkar. “Hindus and Muslims have lived together in the Mahal area and the Sangh has never been involved in riots. Our marches pass through Muslim-dominated neighbourhoods, but there has never been a problem,” he adds.
In the past 100 years, Nagpur has witnessed major Hindu-Muslim strife only twice. Before the violence in 1992 following the pulling down of the Babri mosque in Ayodhya, there had been three days of rioting in 1927 when Muslims refused to allow the procession of goddess Mahalaxmi during the Navratri festival after Hedgewar led a Ganpati procession with drums and music in front of a mosque in Mahal.
Following the violence of March 17, the BJP-led state government ordered a massive crackdown based on incriminating evidence captured in several CCTV cameras. CM Devendra Fadnavis said the pattern in which the violence unfolded showed that the action was “pre-planned” by Muslims. The fact that a Muslim-led mob carried out violence so close to the Sangh headquarters as well as the residences of Union minister Nitin Gadkari and Fadnavis, political observers suggest, provoked the BJP to unleash a form of “collective punishment” against Muslims.
The opposition Congress and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) slammed Fadnavis, who also controls the home department, for alleging a conspiracy after failing to prevent the riot in his hometown. In fact, BJP leaders have suggested that a “larger conspiracy” involving external forces such as Bangladeshi and Pakistani elements could not be ruled out.
Nagpur-based veteran RSS scholar Dilip Deodhar says the violence was the handiwork of non-local extremist forces who tried to organise a large-scale riot. “The local Muslims were not involved as most of them support the BJP’s Gadkari and Fadnavis. A handful of people came at lightning speed and disappeared after a short time. The Congress has been trying to provoke Muslims against Hindus. This time they succeeded,” Deodhar alleges.
During his first visit to his hometown after the clash, a furious Fadnavis vowed to make rioters pay for the damage they caused to property. “In Maharashtra, we take action our way. Where a bulldozer is needed, it will be used. Any wrongdoing will be crushed, and no one will be spared,” he said in a media interaction.
While nine Hindu activists were arrested for hurting religious sentiments and released on bail on the same day, the Nagpur police has so far rounded up at least 114 Muslim men, including juveniles and key accused Fahim Khan, whose house was razed to the ground by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation. The Bombay High Court stayed the demolition of the property of another accused and lashed out against the “high-handedness”. Thirteen FIRs, including four complaints related to sharing inflammatory content on social media, have been lodged in different parts of the city.
As all the riot accused are Muslims, many from the community accuse the authorities of bias and demand a fair investigation. “Most of the accused are innocent bystanders who came out of their houses to see the chaos or left the mosques after evening prayers,” says activist-advocate Asif Qureshi, who has formed a lawyers’ collective to represent the accused.
On March 21, police raided Sabir Khan’s house in Ganjipeth and detained his four nephews aged 17 and another aged 16 on charges of stone pelting. Recalling the evening of March 17, Khan says he was returning home with his brothers and nephews after closing their fabrication shop when they saw people running helter-skelter. “We ran towards our house, and two Hindu friends of our children also came with us out of fear. In a few minutes, several policemen tried to break into our house,” Sabir said. The police suspected stone pelters were hiding in the two-storeyed house. “We said there were no rioters in the house, but they threw tear-gas canisters into the house as we held on to the metal gate. As we feared they would break the gate, someone threw cold water on them from our top floor and they left,” Shaista Khan says.
Nafisa Begum and her husband Shaikh Feroz, a vegetable vendor, say their sons Shaikh Fayyaz (32) and Shaikh Aifaz (29) were arrested on March 19 from their house in Bengali Panja, a Muslim-dominated area of Bhaldarpura, when the family was hosting the 10th-day funeral ceremony of a dead relative.
Standing outside the Ganesh Peth police station and holding the blood-stained shirt Fayyaz wore that day, Nafisa says, “They had been fasting for Roza all day when the police thrashed them and took them away. I just want to check if they are fine and hope they got some food to break their fast.” She claims her sons were attending to their vegetable business during the stone pelting and did not participate in any violence.
The list of accused also includes the names of the Muslims who reportedly filed an FIR against the VHP and Bajrang Dal for hurting religious sentiments. Saif Ali Khan (28) from the Vathoda neighbourhood, who had filed a complaint at the Ganesh Peth police station against the burning of the cloth with holy verses, was among those arrested by the police.
Rajendra Singal, the commissioner of police, denies any bias or political pressure. “Our priority is to keep the peace so people can celebrate the festivities in the coming days,” he says. Advocate Qureshi, however, questions the lack of swift action by the police against the VHP and Bajrang Dal members. “Why did the police not arrest them when they were burning the effigy in the green cloth? Why are the police not investigating the root cause of the violence?” he asks. Mufti Mujtaba Sharif Khan from Darul Uloom Amjadiah, an Islamic religious body, says the issue of the desecration of the holy chadar has been sidelined. “No one is talking about the hurting of our sentiments,” he says.
The VHP and Bajrang Dal, however, claim the activists burned only a green piece of saree used to wrap the effigy. “We do not intentionally hurt any religion and treat all religions with equal respect,” says Amol Thackeray, Nagpur head of the VHP who was at the demonstration. “If any video shows the burning of a sacred cloth, then it is fabricated,” he adds.
According to Neha Dhabade, executive director of the Centre for Study of Society and Secularism (CSSS), the state action flouting laws and disproportionately targeting the minority with mass detentions and “bulldozer justice” resembles the “authoritarian” enforcement practices in BJP-ruled states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Assam. “This disturbing pattern of collective punishment in the name of riots, dividing and polarising the minorities, particularly Muslims, was earlier not seen in Maharashtra,” she says.
Dhabade, who studied communal disturbances across the country in the latest CSSS report titled ‘Hegemony and Demolitions: The Tale of Communal Riots in India in 2024’, found Maharashtra to be the epicentre of communal violence. Among the 59 cases across the country, Maharashtra accounted for the maximum with 12, mostly disturbances triggered during religious festivals or processions.
“The riots in Nagpur fit this pattern,” says Dhabade, noting that Fadnavis led from the front in warning of dire consequences against the minorities. “There is a competition among the chief ministers of the BJP-ruled states to outdo each other. The bar is set high with UP CM Yogi Adityanath’s bulldozer justice and Maharashtra has unfortunately emulated this extreme model in handling communal incidents.”
According to Dhabade, the Nagpur riot sent a larger message across the country that the state will deal with Muslims using authoritarian, even unconstitutional, mechanisms. “Hatred has its dividends. Polarisation helps electorally. Riots like these effectively lead to a breakdown of social agreements between the two communities, and we will see the same in Nagpur,” she says.
Citing her several field visits in riot-affected areas, Dhabade says the “theatre and nature of communal violence” has changed in the past decade. Unlike earlier, when major riots occurred in the aftermath of national events or tragedies—the 1947 Partition, the 1984 Delhi riots after Indira Gandhi’s assassination or the 1992 demolition of Babri mosque—riots now flare up over religious procession, festivals and small interpersonal disputes. Dhabade notes three major changes: the frequency of riot-like situations has increased; there are more small and sporadic incidents; and these incidents are taking place in new areas with no history of sectarian violence.
“These ‘blow hot, blow cold’ incidents that flare up for a few hours and are contained in a short span are effective in deepening polarisation, criminalisation and humiliation of Muslims,” she says. “This strategy helps in consolidation of the majority Hindu community and the othering of the Muslim minority. Now you don’t need threats of economic boycott of Muslims, changing of the Constitution or even elaborate planning of social engineering to cause large-scale riots. Such incidents are effective in depriving minorities and reinforcing their status as second-class citizens. Repeated occurrences of communal disturbance around the year strengthen majoritarian assertiveness and enable Hindutva ideology to take root in different parts of villages, towns and cities. Such polarisation is crucial for dismantling Maharashtra’s progressive and reformist political thought. The Phule-Shahu-Ambedkar ideologies, which challenged the upper-caste Brahminical hegemony and reinstated dignity to Dalit Bahujans, are embraced by both Hindus and Muslims, and deeply rooted in the socio-cultural fabric of the state’s hinterland.”
According to Dhabade, the BJP has achieved polarisation by keeping the communal cauldron boiling and creating fissures between communities. “It ultimately helps the party in consolidating Hindu votes and marginalising the minority,” she says.
The coming days will be challenging as Nagpur is poised to be on high alert with a series of back-to-back festivities, including Eid on March 31, Ram Navami on April 6 and Hanuman Jayanti on April 14. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the Gudi Padwa celebration on March 30, marking the Hindu New Year, where he will share the stage with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in their first public appearance together in the city. Authorities are tight-lipped about whether Modi will visit the areas affected by the recent unrest, but police have confirmed that all security arrangements are in place. The developments in Nagpur—whether the city retreats in peace and follows restraint or gives in to sectarian passions—will be closely watched.
Source:outlookindia.com
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Governor set to put 4% Muslim quota bill under legal microscope
Mar 31, 2025
Bengaluru: A fresh political showdown between the govt and Raj Bhavan is on the horizon, this time over the contentious Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to provide 4% reservation for Muslims in govt contracts.
The govt is yet to send the bill to governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot for his assent but Raj Bhavan has already initiated consultations with its legal team, following a petition by the opposition BJP-JD(S) combine which urged him to reject the bill.
Officials confirmed that the bill, which was passed in both Houses of the legislature on March 21, is awaiting the signature of legislative council chairman Basavaraj Horatti. "He is expected to send it any moment, and the govt is likely to forward it to the governor by Tuesday," an official said.
BJP, which strongly opposed the bill on grounds that religion-based quotas violate the Constitution, has made it a key theme for its upcoming JanakroshaYatre, a month-long statewide agitation starting April 7 in Mysuru. "This Congress govt has been blatant in formulating policies that favour the Muslim community," said BJP state president BY Vijayendra, after a meeting to finalise strategy for the protest. "The budget was not only aimed at appealing to its minority vote bank but excludes majority Hindus. While our party has resisted this at the national level, we will take the fight to every nook and corner of the state."
However, HK Patil, law and parliamentary affairs minister, defended the bill, saying, "BJP is trying to make it a case of religion. But reservation for Muslims is not based on religion; it is under the OBC category."
Muslims in Karnataka are clubbed under OBC category 2B and had enjoyed 4% reservation for decades. But the previous BJP govt, led by Basavaraj Bommai, scrapped this quota and redistributed it among Lingayats and Vokkaligas. However, the Supreme Court stayed the BJP govt's decision and reinstated the quota.
CM Siddaramaiah, in his budget speech, reintroduced 4% reservation for Muslims in civil contracts, drawing strong criticism from BJP, which raised the issue even in Parliament. The controversy intensified after deputy CM DK Shivakumar reportedly claimed the govt would amend the Constitution to ensure Muslim quota. But Shivakumar flatly denied saying this.
The KTPP (Amendment) Bill was among 28 legislations passed in the budget session. However, it was cleared amid protests over the honeytrap allegations involving minister KN Rajanna. While the govt is yet to send 15 of the 28 bills to the governor for his assent, it is taking extra precautions to ensure The KTPP (Amendment) Bill withstands legal scrutiny. A source close to Raj Bhavan said, "While the govt is yet to submit the bill, the governor will take a call after thorough deliberations with the legal team."
Source:indiatimes.com
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PUCL condemns communal violence in Nagpur, seeks impartial inquiry
March 31, 2025
PURNIMA SAH
The People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), Maharashtra has strongly condemned the communal violence that took place in Nagpur on March 17, and the developments that followed.
In a press statement, the PUCL said the violence was preceded by communal tensions created across the State with hate speeches and calls to violence by political leaders, Ministers and extremist groups, including the Bajrang Dal and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), over the issue of the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad.
“PUCL Maharashtra condemns the communal and inciteful statements made by various Hindu extremist forces and seeks an independent and impartial inquiry into the circumstances that led to the communal violence and death of Irfan Ansari, and the flaring of communal tensions and feeling of enmity between communities,” Shiraz Prabhu, president, PUCL, said.
The violence claimed the life of 38-year-old Ansari, reportedly found on the roadside by the police, the statement added. He succumbed to grievous injuries in a hospital on March 22. His family has demanded justice, and action against the people who reportedly attacked him, Mr. Prabhu said.
“We express serious concern over the selective police crackdown on Muslims and the spate of arrests that have taken place in the aftermath of the violence which broke out in Nagpur city. Fahim Shamim Khan, leader of the Minority Democratic Party, booked for sedition and named by the police as a mastermind of the riots, is among the over 100 people arrested, mostly Muslims. Local Muslims of the area have accused the police of arbitrary arrests, and bias against the community,” he added.
Nagpur violence: Man injured in March 17 violence dies in hospital
The PUCL demanded the Maharashtra government pay compensation to Ansari’s family. All those responsible for instigating riots and participating in violence must be tried and punished according to the law of the land. Justice must not only be done, it must also be seen to be done, the PUCL’s statement read.
“Selective and targeted actions in violation of the rule of law must not be undertaken. All illegal detentions and arbitrary arrests along with combing operations across the city meant to terrorise minorities must be stopped,” Sandhya Gokhale, general secretary, PUCL said.
“There should be a complete halt on punitive demolitions of the homes of the accused and no demolitions should be conducted without following due process of law and without conducting fair and proper trial. The government should compensate Jehrunnisa, mother of Fahim Shamim Khan, whose house was demolished illegally,” Ms. Gokhale said.
The rights body has said that the government must investigate why no steps, preventive or punitive, were taken by the police to stop the attempts to communalise the environment, and in particular why the rally was not stopped in spite of denial of permission to Rahul Narnaware, joint secretary of the Bajrang Dal, and why the police did not stop the group from burning the chadar on March 17, and take prompt action with respect to it.
“Strict action must be taken against all such police officers and those in command and in charge of maintaining public order in Nagpur, who abdicated their duty or were involved in arbitrary and biased actions. Immediate action must be initiated against Minister of Ports Development of Maharashtra, Nitish Rane, Telangana BJP MLA T. Raja Singh and other political leaders for giving hate speeches and inciting violence,” the statement said.
On the Hindi film Chhaava, the PUCL has expressed grave concern over the manner in which divisive agendas were sought to be spread by commercial movies, which by the government’s own admission contributed to the violence in Nagpur, the statement said. “PUCL further cautions elected representatives, including heads of States, to refrain from commenting on such movies that are liable to be misconstrued and misused to incite communal violence. Any attempts to stoke communal fires must be dealt with swiftly and severely,” Ms. Gokhale said.
Source:thehindu.com
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Supreme Court dismisses challenge to Allahabad high court’s Sambhal mosque order
By Utkarsh Anand
Apr 01, 2025
The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a plea challenging the permission granted by the Allahabad high court to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to whitewash the Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal from the outside and install decorative lighting, provided no tampering was done to the structure.
A bench, comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, refused to interfere with the high court’s decision, emphasising that no prejudice had been caused. “...we are not going to entertain this,” said the bench, dismissing petitioner Satish Kumar Aggarwal’s plea. The court underscored that such matters did not warrant its intervention, particularly after the high court examined all the facts.
Aggarwal’s petition challenged the March 12 order, arguing that allowing whitewashing could amount to altering the characteristics of the “disputed” structure. On Tuesday, his lawyer said the high court should not have issued any directives in light of the Supreme Court’s December 2024 order, restraining courts across India from passing effective orders in cases concerning the religious character of structures. The Supreme Court was unconvinced and summarily dismissed the plea.
The dispute in the matter stems from a claim that the Mughal-era mosque was built after demolishing the historic Harihar Temple. Violence erupted during a trial court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid on November 24, 2024, and left four people dead.
On November 29, 2024, the Supreme Court intervened to restrain the trial court from proceeding in the matter and directed the mosque management committee to approach the high court. The apex court instructed the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure peace and explore resolution through community mediation under Section 43 of the Mediation Act. It placed the survey report under wraps, prohibiting authorities from acting upon or publicising it until the high court adjudicated the matter.
On March 12, Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal of the high court formed a panel comprising ASI officials, a scientific expert, and a local administration representative to oversee the whitewashing and ensure no structural damage. The court issued the directive on a request by the mosque management committee, which agreed to reimburse ASI for the cost of the whitewashing.
Justice Agarwal expressed concern over ASI counsel’s argument that the mosque management committee was conducting painting activities for years, allegedly damaging the exterior. He questioned why the ASI had not intervened earlier if it believed such actions were harmful.
In February, the Uttar Pradesh Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted a charge sheet exceeding 4,000 pages in six out of the 12 cases related to the violence, which erupted during ASI’s survey. It said 80 individuals have been arrested, while 79 remain at large, bringing the total number of accused to 159. The document said weapons recovered from the site of the violence and other locations had origins in countries such as the UK, USA, Germany, and Czechoslovakia.
The Uttar Pradesh government constituted a three-member panel, led by former Allahabad high court judge Devendra Kumar Arora, to investigate the violence.
The dispute over the Shahi Jama Masjid dates back to November 19, 2024, when a suit was filed alleging that the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple. The plaintiffs sought permission for Hindu worship at the site, leading to a local trial court ordering a survey, which was conducted with photography and videography. The mosque management committee said that the survey was conducted ex parte, without prior notice, and alleged undue haste in the proceedings.
The controversy surrounding the Shahi Jama Masjid is part of a broader trend of disputes over religious sites. The Supreme Court’s December 12, 2024, directive restrained courts across the country from entertaining fresh suits or ordering surveys to determine whether temple structures lay beneath existing mosques.
These legal battles are being examined in the context of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which freezes the religious character of places of worship as they stood on August 15, 1947, except for the Ayodhya-Babri dispute, which was pending in courts at that time.
Hindu litigants argue that such laws infringe upon their fundamental rights to reclaim places of worship allegedly altered during historical invasions. Muslim groups and some political parties, including Congress, insist that the 1991 Act is crucial for maintaining communal harmony and upholding India’s secular framework.
Source:hindustantimes.com
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UCC will prevent crimes like Shraddha Walkar murder: Uttarakhand CM
April 1, 2025
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday, March 31, said implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) would prevent crimes like the Shraddha Walkar murder case in Delhi. He said a provision of the law mandates disclosure of live-in relationships to families.
In May 2022, 25-year-old Shraddha Walkar was allegedly murdered by her live-in partner Aftab, who sawed her body into pieces and stored it in a refrigerator for almost three weeks, before disposing of them over several days. Claiming that many Muslim women expressed gratitude to the BJP government after the implementation of the UCC, he reiterated his commitment to making Uttarakhand a model state and assured the effective enforcement of the new law.
He said the UCC’s impact would not remain confined to Uttarakhand but would gradually extend across the country. Clarifying that the UCC is not against any religion or community, he said the law would resolve inheritance disputes and contribute to women’s empowerment. He emphasised the principle of ‘One Nation, One Law’ and said the UCC aligns with India’s constitutional framework and the development trajectory envisioned under Prime Minister Modi.
Dhami highlighted that several long-awaited reforms, such as the abrogation of Article 370, the construction of the Ram temple, the enactment of the Citizenship Amendment Act and the triple talaq ban, have materialised after 2014. On the roadmap for the UCC, Dhami recalled that the BJP had promised its implementation in Uttarakhand during the 2022 assembly elections. Breaking a longstanding trend of alternating governments, people re-elected the BJP in the state, enabling the fulfilment of this pledge.
Addressing concerns of the critics of UCC, he said those rejecting the Constitution’s provisions and governance structures were “anti-system and anti-Constitution elements” who did not respect Dr B R Ambedkar’s vision. He reaffirmed the BJP’s commitment to the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas’.
He said Uttarakhand’s UCC was formulated after consulting with over 2.36 lakh people, engaging with all political parties, religious organisations and various communities, including tribal representatives., Rewrite it in four hundred words
Source:muslimmirror.com
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HistoriCity: Rajasthan’s Bayana houses a neglected gem, India’s oldest Idgah
By Valay Singh
Every Eid, Muslims throng to various mosques and Idgahs to mark the festival. For many in the subcontinent, the word Idgah (place for festivals) is synonymous with Premchand’s short story of the same name. ‘Idgah’ remains one of the most poignant portrayals of Eid and the bonhomie between different communities in the subcontinent. In the midst of the village gearing up to visit the local Idgah for Eid prayers, the story shows that Hindus and Muslims share a common culture.
Idgahs are a common sight in villages and towns and date back at least 800 years in north India and even longer in Kerala and Sindh (now in Pakistan). Built for special congregations particularly during festivals, they are also sites for intermixing between diverse sections of Muslims as well as those from other religions through the setting up of small fairs and temporary markets. The oldest Idgah of India, which is in Bayana, today stands forgotten—waiting for preservation.
The celebrated Jama Masjids of Delhi and Agra remain icons of Mughal architecture and are thronged by devotees and tourists alike. It is inside the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Delhi–Agra–Fatehpur Sikri that Bayana, a historic town, lies. The town has sprawling fort that is braving both the ASI’s neglect and the vicissitudes of time and nature. The conquest of Bayana (a Persian version of ‘Bhayana’) took place in the early Sultanate period around the 12th and 13th centuries. Situated along the general route towards Gwalior and the Deccan, the older name of the fort was Vijayamandargarh or the Fort of the Temple of Victory.
When the Moroccan traveller Ibn Battuta visited Bayana in the 14th century, during the reign of Sultan Mohammad bin Tughlaq, he described it as a thriving urban centre: “The first stage that we arrived was Tilbat, which was two leagues and a third from the capital Delhi, from there we travelled to Au and to Helau and then to Bayana. It is a great city and has fine buildings and attractive bazaars, and its Jami mosque is one of the finest mosques, with walls and ceilings all of stone”, Batuta wrote in his memoirs, the Rihlah.
Bayana’s prominence didn’t last too long and it appears to have faded once the centre of power moved to Agra in the third decade of the 16th century, following the ascension of Akbar to the Mughal throne. Before that Agra and Sikri were small villages under the territory of Bayana whose glory peaked between Timur’s invasion in 1398 and the rise of Mughal power.
Bayana’s connection to political power in medieval north India survived through its red sandstone, which was used in the building of Akbar’s capital in Fatehpur Sikri. Its influence on architecture goes beyond just providing raw materials.
Now a part of the expanding town of Bayana, in a nondescript field, stands a nearly 800-year-old Idgah, one of the oldest such extant structures in India. The Bayana Idgah is a 60-metre- long wall containing a central mihrab and four small niches on either side, with a tower at both ends of the wall. The Idgah was likely built during the reign of Baha-al-din Tughrul (1195–1210), a Turkic slave of Ghurid conqueror Muhammad bin Sam who after pacifying the region of Bharatpur-Bayana made Tughrul the local governor.
Tughrul seems to have been a popular overlord and constructed several religious buildings, including the Jami masjid (now known as Ukha masjid), another Idgah and the Chaurasi Khamba (84-pillared) mosque at Kaman, a nearby village.
The 13th century chronicler Mihaji Siraj recorded Tughrul in edifying terms. “Malik Baha al-din Tughrul was of handsome disposition, very just and kind to the needy or strangers (gharEbnawaz). He was a slave of long-standing of the victorious sultan Muizz al-din Muhammad bin Sam who had brought him up and given him a good education. The fortress of Tahangar was in the territory of Bhayana and was part of the realm of the rai. When the sultan conquered it, he gave it to Baha al-din Tughrul who made that territory prosperous. Merchants and men of distinction from different parts of Hindustan and Khurasan joined him and he gave all of them houses and resources which were to be their own property, and for this reason they settled near him. As he and his army found the fort of Tahangar unsuitable, he built the town of Sultankot in the territory of Bhayana, and here he made his abode. Baha al-din Tughrul was extremely benevolent and in the region of Bhayana numerous beneficial monuments of his have remained.”
Mehrdad and Natalie Shokoohy wrote in their seminal work, Bayana: The Sources of Mughal Architecture, “The Idgah has the characteristics of an early Indo-Islamic building, including a corbelled dome and corbelled arches, distinctive of the first two decades of the conquest. True arches and domes were built in Bayana as early as 1320 and it would be unlikely for craftsmen to abandon a new and successfully used technique for a less-advanced one when constructing a sizeable building. The Idgah must therefore date from the time when Bahaʾ al-din Tughrul’sSultankot was at the earliest stage of its development and a quickly-built structure was essential for the army of the Faithful. If so, the ʿIdgah would be one of the first of the buildings mentioned by Minhaj-i Siraj to have been constructed by Bahaʾ al-din in Bayana, and the earliest of its kind still standing”.
HistoriCity is a column by author Valay Singh that narrates the story of a city that is in the news, by going back to its documented history, mythology and archaeological digs. The views expressed are personal.
Source:hindustantimes.com
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Lost rite: Editorial on how the public iftaar has become a thing of the past
01.04.25
Another rite has near-evaporated from public life and political convention, quite unnoticed, and become what is called the new normal. The practice of the public iftaar, or the inter-community breaking of the daily Ramzan fast at sundown, has become more a memory, less a present-day reality. The public iftaar has been allowed to lapse and become a thing of the past. There was a time, not very long ago, that the Ramzan month would overflow with iftaar invitations; public and political leaders across distinctions of caste or creed would compete to host guests and guests, in turn, would feel obliged to float from one iftaar to another on the same evening. Iftaars were a joyous confluence that celebrated India’s treasured ethos of plurality and secularism. Iftaars were more than just an occasion to end the daily fast Muslims keep during the holy month of Ramzan; they represented a cultural rite of commemoration across faiths and ideologies. It was, in fact, a uniquely Indian rite; as many Hindus would host public iftaars as Muslims.
Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, was, in all likelihood, the most prominent Indian leader to have initiated the tradition post-Independence. It was an act of demonstrating social camaraderie with India’s largest minority, emphasising India’s diversity and interfaith traditions. India was newly independent. It was also newly partitioned, a bitter and bloodied divide along religious lines that sundered the subcontinent, created Pakistan and, yet, left the majority of Muslims on the mainland investing faith in the pledge of a secular nation. At the time Nehru began to host public iftaars as prime minister of India, it would also have been an essential and demonstrable act of succour and security for the minority. Public iftaars survived Nehru and survived well. They actually flourished and became a political and public fashion. The most bitter foes would find on the iftaar stage an occasion to convene under a convivial canopy. What has happened to the heritage of the iftaar is nothing short of unfortunate. The convention has been pointedly shunned by the authors of ‘New India’, public men who would earlier rejoice in hosting iftaar soirees have been proactively discouraged, the vibrant air of inter-community concord has been wiped off Ramzan evenings. What was a bridge is fast gaining the shape of another divide, and that, bluntly put, is no good.
Source:telegraphindia.com
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Eid sermons across Kol preach message of peace, love and unity
Mar 31, 2025
Kolkata: From registering their protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 to standing up against hatemongers, Eid prayers across Kolkata on Monday touched upon all contemporary issues. Clerics repeatedly stressed "brotherhood, unity, and peace" among all religious believers.
Qari Fazlur Rahman, who led the Eid prayers on Red Road, Kolkata's biggest congregation, strongly registered his disagreement with the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 in his speech. "Muslims do not support it. Using this bill, they want to snatch our property," he said. He also urged people to stand up against those who spread hatred.
Speaking to TOI later, the senior Muslim cleric said, "In Bengal, it has always been a tradition to participate in each other's festivals. At times like these, when there are a few people, especially post-2014, who are trying to spread hatred in the name of religion across the country, the message of "aman (peace) and bhaichara (brotherhood)" becomes extremely important. In the face of hatred, which tries to break the Hindu-Muslim unity, each person needs to stand up for peace and love. It is important to stand against people who run their shops of hate. Before 2014, people of the two communities lived peacefully together." He added that "everyone is equal" and "aman" are core values of Islam.
The Nakhoda Mosque Imam, Md Shafique Qasmi, also spoke out against hate. The cleric, who now presides over the prayers at the 99-year-old mosque — Bengal's largest — said, "Today's message is to maintain peace, unity, and brotherhood. Before India's independence, the British tried to break this unity by making Indians fight amongst each other over religion. Now, their followers are doing the same. People should oppose it. The message today for the people is to not pay heed to divisive politics and to maintain peace and unity."
"It is our responsibility to maintain love among communities, and each locality will have to ensure the same. This message of peace and unity is extremely important in the times when police have become uncontrollable, and people of a particular religion are being targeted. In the face of divisive politics, it has become extremely important for everyone to keep love in their heart and stand against politicians who spew hate," Maulana Qasmi added.
Source:indiatimes.com
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Amid strict vigil, Eid-ul-Fitr namaz offered peacefully in Uttar Pradesh
April 01, 2025
MAYANK KUMAR
Eid-ul-Fitr namaz was held at over 31,500 locations in Uttar Pradesh on Monday (March 31, 2025) amid tight security arrangements, and a ban on the offering of namaz on roads.
Special security measures, including deployment of the Provincial Armed Constabulary, and Rapid Action Force, and surveillance with CCTV cameras, were in place across sensitive districts of Sambhal, Meerut, Aligarh, Bareilly, Moradabad, Saharanpur, and Bahraich.
In Sambhal, senior district officials inspected idgahs and mosques to check security arrangements, and gave directions to police personnel on duty. Sambhal’s Lok Sabha MP, Zia-ur-Rehman Barq, offered namaz at the Shahi Jama Masjid.
At Mathura’s Shahi Idgah mosque, prayers were offered in the presence of a large police force, with the District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police keeping a close eye on the proceedings.
In Meerut, two Muslim groups pelted stones and fired against each other after namaz at Siwalkhas town, resulting in injuries to at least four people. “In Siwalkhas, two individuals, Najim and Jahid, had an altercation over some issue yesterday. Today, after namaz, both sides clashed by pelting stones, and information has been received on firing. Some people are injured in the clash. We have detained three people. We are taking necessary action as per the law,” Rakesh Kumar Mishra, Superintendent of Police, Meerut Dehat, said.
In Moradabad, some devotees protested in front of the police against intense security checks on the way to the Eidgah.
U.P. Director General of Police Prashant Kumar said prayers had been conducted peacefully, in accordance with the administration’s expectations. “Eid prayers were successfully conducted across Uttar Pradesh today. Prayers were offered at over 31,500 locations. As per the administration’s expectations, and the appeal of religious leaders, people performed namaz at designated places peacefully,” Mr. Kumar said.
The police monitored social media and increased foot patrolling in sensitive areas across the State.
Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the administration had deliberately stopped his convoy of cars to delay his arrival at the Lucknow Eidgah. “They kept my ‘carcade’ held up for half an hour. When I asked for the reasons behind the delay, no official had any answers. Later on, only my vehicle was allowed. Is it a dictatorship or some emergency? Today, the country’s Constitution is at the greatest risk,” the SP leader said.
In Saharanpur, people could be seen waving the flag of Palestine in support of the people there.
Days before the festival, the U.P. government had issued directives stating religious activities should not obstruct roads, sensitive areas should be identified, and additional police personnel deployed accordingly. The government also sought increased foot patrolling and an active response system.
Source:thehindu.com
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Opposition misleading Muslims on Waqf Bill: Rijiju
March 31, 2025
Ishita MishraISHITA MISHRA
Amid countrywide protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday (March 31, 2025) slammed the Opposition parties for allegedly misleading people from the Muslim community on the Bill.
Mr. Rijiju’s statement came ahead of the Union government’s proposed plan to table the Bill in Parliament on April 2. Sources in the government said that it is hopeful that the Bill will be passed. Government managers have reached out to allies to drum up support.
“Some people are saying that the Waqf Amendment Bill is unconstitutional. Waqf rules, its provisions have been in existence since before Independence. If the Waqf Act has been in existence since before Independence, then how can it be illegal,” he asked.
The Minister said that the Opposition parties are misleading ‘innocent Muslims’ by telling them that the government will ‘snatch’ their graveyards and mosques. He added that the Opposition’s ‘propaganda’ is harmful for the country.
“I would like to request everyone to please identify those leaders who are lying. These are the people who misguided the country during CAA. They had said that CAA was brought in to snatch the rights of Muslims,” he said.
The Minister, while extending Eid wishes, added that he is “proud” to say that minorities are the “safest” in India and enjoy the “best” rights of freedom.
Urging political parties to participate in the debate on the Bill in Parliament, Mr. Rijiju said that the legislative process has undergone a record number of consultations and deliberations over the Waqf Bill. He welcomed the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council asking MPs from the State to back the Bill.
“It is the duty of those in politics to care for and address problems and challenges faced by our people. For example, hundreds of families in Munambam, Kerala, have suffered and continue to seek a solution to protect their properties and homes. This act is not against any community – that is propaganda being spread to poison minds of some,” Mr Rijiju said. He too asked MPs from Kerala to support the Bill in the interest of all people and refrain from ‘appeasement politics’.
The Central government, on July 28, 2024, had tabled the Bill in Parliament proposing the inclusion of non-Muslims and Muslim women on the Waqf boards. The amendment proposes to strip the boards of powers to declare a property as ‘waqf’. In August, a 31-member Joint Parliamentary Committee was set up to review the Bill.
Source:thehindu.com
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Pakistan
Maternal uncles among four who raped, killed minor girl in Bahawalpur
March 31, 2025
BAHAWALPUR: Four suspects who raped and killed an 11-year-old girl on March 24 were her relatives, with two of them her maternal uncles.
Sadar police SDPO Agha Fasihuddin told media on Sunday the culprits were traced by police teams with the help of geo fencing, using latest technology.
The SDPO said a special investigation team, constituted by DPO Asad Sarfraz Khan, immediately cordoned off the crime scene with the help of officials of the Crime Scene Unit and Punjab Forensic Agency and a search operation of adjacent 50 houses was carried out.
The data of each family member of these cordoned-off houses was collected and they were interrogated. Out of the family members of 50 houses, 25 members were short-listed. After the interrogation of 25 family members of different houses, 15 suspects were picked up and their DNA tests were sent to Lahore.
During DNA process, the interrogation of these suspects in police custody continued and after the receipt of DNA results, four suspects were identified and were arrested. Now, they will be produced before a court for their physical remand. Dawn learnt that after their DNA tests results, the suspects in their initial statement before the investigation officer (IO) confessed to committing the crime.
According to their confessional statement, the four said they raped the eleven–year- old girl and then murdered her in the sun flower fields to hide their gruesome act.
The girl had gone out of the house to fetch water from a nearby hand-pump in Basti Baqirpur in the suburbs of Bahawalpur city.
The Sadar police registered the case on the complaint of victim’s mother. Her postmortem examination’s initial report had also confirmed the rape.
Meanwhile, DPO Asad Sarfraz Khan says strict security measures have been taken on the occasion of Eidul Fitr as 1400 personnel would be deployed around 400 Eid congregations across the district.
Source:dawn.com
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Deportation plan comes under international scrutiny
Monitoring Desk
March 31, 2025
WITH Pakistan all set to enforce its Afghan deportation policy from April 1, its phased plan to expel all documented and undocumented refugees has increasingly come under scrutiny in the international media, with several foreign media outlets pointing out the grave risks faced by the refugees, particularly the women, upon return.
By March 31, Pakistan plans to deport Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders, followed by the deportation of documented Afghans (those who have PoR) who — for now — have been allowed to stay in the country till June.
In its article, the UK-based Guardian termed the deportation policy ‘draconian’, saying that as many as “60 female activists and human rights defenders, who fled persecution after they spoke out for women’s rights and education or attended protests”, are also facing the threat of deportation to the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.
Similarly, Australia’s ABC News, Al Jazeera, and CNN also pointed out the risks faced by these asylum seekers back home, particularly the women who do not abide by the hardline version of Islam imposed by the interim Afghanistan government.
According to The Guardian, one such refugee is Alim, who was forced to flee Afghanistan in December 2022 due to her activism. “If they send me back to Afghanistan, it only means death,” she told The Guardian.
Similar is the tale of four young girls, who aspire to be musicians, shared by Al Jazeera titled: ‘Four Afghan girl guitarists escaped the Taliban. Will they be forced back?’
All four were supposed to fly in the first week of Feb, but the Trump order dashed their hopes. Afraid of going back to Afghanistan, one of the girls, Yasmine, recalled a traumatic encounter with a Taliban soldier in a bazaar.
“I wasn’t wearing a mask and the Taliban pointed a gun at me asking me to wear it right there and then,” she says, referring to a face veil. “It was really hard, especially for women in Afghanistan,” she told Al Jazeera.
Amina, a rights activist, told ABC about her escape from Afghanistan where she used to advocate for equal rights for women.
Before she fled, she spoke on a radio programme in Jalalabad about equal rights. ‘The next day, I was bombarded with phone calls, told I had committed blasphemy and should be punished’, ABC quoted her as saying. It said that days after the interview, her husband was attacked, forcing him to flee to Pakistan as well.
Besides women and rights activists, another group which is particularly vulnerable to Taliban violence is those who worked with the US forces, but have now been seemingly abandoned by their ally. Touheed Khan told CNN that “in his time in the air force, ‘eight to 10’ of his colleagues were killed in ‘targeted explosions and shootings’ by the Taliban.”
But in its coverage, the Financial Times attempted to dig out the motive behind this expulsion drive. It quoted an anonymous diplomat who claimed that “declining international assistance was a significant point” in the move to increase deportations.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1901457/deportation-plan-comes-under-international-scrutiny
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Sit-in will continue until our women reach home after being released: BNP’s Mengal
Abdullah Zehri
April 1, 2025
BNP-M President Sardar Akhtar Mengal said on Monday that his party’s sit-in demanding the release of arrested Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders will continue until “our women are released and reach their homes.”
Mengal had announced a “long march” from Wadh to Quetta to protest the arrests of BYC chief organiser Dr Mahrang Baloch and other leaders as well as police crackdowns on a sit-in. However, the Quetta administration had denied the party permission for the rally.
On Saturday evening, a provincial government delegation comprising Zahoor Ahmed Buledi, Bakht Muhammad Kakar and Sardar Noor Ahmed Bangulzai met Mengal and other BNP-M leaders at the party’s sit-in site in Mastung but could not convince Mengal to end the sit-in, which continued.
Addressing the protesters today, Mengal said, “The sit-in will be written in history and will continue until our women reach home after being released.”
“Let’s promise that until we take our imprisoned women home, it will be forbidden for us to go home,” he said.
On the first day of Eidul Fitr, Eid prayers were offered at Lakpas, in which protesters, as well as people from Mastung and nearby areas also participated.
“Yesterday, the government came with its butterfly-shaped drone and took pictures of our sit-in to prove how small the sit-in was. But today, I ask them to bring their big butterfly (helicopter) and see how many participants we have,” Mengal said.
BNP central leader and former senator Sana Baloch told Dawn.com that BNP-M or BYC are not a campaigning party or organisation.
“They are raising their voice for their rights in a democratic manner. Rana Sanaullah says that Sardar Akhtar Mengal’s speeches are promoting extremism in Balochistan, which is very sad.
“When the PML-N leaders talked about respecting the vote, the leadership including Sanaullah were put under arrest and today those same PML-N leaders are telling us that our speeches and statements are promoting extremism.”
Baloch added, “It is not our statements and speeches but the government’s policies that are causing extremism, due to which Pakistan’s relations with neighboring countries are not good today and due to these policies, the people of Mastung are offering Eid prayers on the highways today.”
Baloch said that if the report of the commission headed by Mengal had been implemented on the instructions of the Islamabad High Court, the situation would not have deteriorated so much today and further deterioration would have been avoided.
On the fourth day of the ongoing protest sit-in at Lakpas area of Mastung, BNP Awami chief and member of Balochistan Assembly Mir Asad Baloch, National Party leader Sardar Kamal Khan Bangulzai, Prince Muhammad Baloch, son of the Khan of Kalat, and other political leaders also expressed solidarity with the sit-in protesters.
Marchers and motorists from different political parties had started their journey to Quetta from Mengal’s native town of Wadh at around 9am on Friday.
On Saturday, after the BNP-M claimed that over 250 of its activists were detained as its march was met with police action near Mastung, Mengal and other party workers also survived a suicide bombing.
Addressing the sit-in on Saturday, Mengal had said: “The government delegation spoke to us about cooperation and finding a way.
“We told them that they must find a way and let us go to Quetta.”
Mengal elaborated: “The government delegation asked us if we wanted to hold a rally, to which we said that if we wanted to hold a rally, we would have done it in Khuzdar.
“We told the government our only demand is to release the women,” Mengal said. “We told them that we will march towards Quetta, demanding the release of our women.”
Source:dawn.com
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Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry visits UK, discusses bilateral issues
March 31, 2025
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, during his state visit to the United Kingdom, attended a dinner on Sunday hosted by UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper in honour of visiting ministers and discussed a range of bilateral issues.
Pakistan and the UK share a longstanding relationship characterised by historical ties, trade, and a significant Pakistani diaspora in the UK. In 2024, Pakistan was the kingdom’s 51st largest trade partner, while the UK ranked as Pakistan’s third-largest, following China and the United States. The UK also stands as the third-largest source of remittance inflows to Pakistan, trailing only Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
During the event, Chaudhry held discussions with Cooper on various bilateral matters, focusing on strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
Today, the minister is set to hold key meetings with the UK Home Secretary and interior ministers from other countries, where topics such as effective border management, prevention of illegal immigration, and enhancing bilateral relations will be discussed in detail.
“Pakistan is committed to strengthening global cooperation on effective border management and addressing the challenges of illegal immigration,” Chaudhry stated.
He reiterated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi have emphasised strict measures for border security and immigration control to ensure national stability and security.
Last month, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb had also expressed the desire to work for more robust relations with the UK during an engagement with the British Parliamentary Undersecretary of State for the Middle East, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Hamish Falconer, in Portugal.
The two sides had also discussed matters of mutual interest, including investment opportunities in Pakistan in energy, minerals, and infrastructure sectors.
Source:dawn.com
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CM Murad wants key interchange completed within three months
March 31, 2025
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah has directed the authorities to complete the Jam Sadiq Interchange of the Malir Expressway, renamed as Shahrah-i-Bhutto, within three months.
During a visit to the expressway, he reviewed the construction progress of the project and said: “The completion of this interchange will provide a separate route for DHA and Korangi traffic on Bhutto Highway.”
Mr Shah also instructed officials to expedite work on the Korangi Causeway Bridge, emphasising its early completion to alleviate traffic congestion in the area.
The CM also called for early opening of Quaidabad Interchange of the Bhutto Highway, directing the authorities to hasten the final preparations.
CM visits under-construction
Indus Hospital
The CM also visited the under-construction Indus Hospital, established by the Sindh government in collaboration with Indus Hospital & Health Networks (IHHN) at Korangi Crossing. The project is likely to be inaugurated shortly.
Murad Ali Shah visited different facilities of the hospital, including adult wards, operation theatres, surgical ICUs, family medicine clinics, consultant clinics etc.
IHHN President Dr Abdul Bari Khan told the CM that in the first phase, a 90-bed emergency department had been launched, with plans for the hospital to expand up to 1,380 beds in the near future.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah visited the hospital and received a briefing on the project. During the visit, CM Murad Ali Shah stated that the Korangi Indus Hospital would be the third major healthcare facility in Karachi, following the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) and Civil Hospital Karachi. “This hospital will provide free treatment to patients,” said the CM.
Dr Bari highlighted that the Korangi Indus Hospital would operate as a paperless facility and feature specialised wards for neurosciences and adult oncology. “This project would not have been possible without the support of the Sindh chief minister,” Dr Bari acknowledged.
CM Murad Ali Shah also announced that a separate mother and child block would be constructed at Badin Hospital, to managed by the IHHN. “The Indus network is providing top-quality healthcare services, and we are committed to enhancing medical facilities across Sindh,” the CM added.
The CM emphasised his vision to promote nursing as a vital profession to inspire more young people to pursue careers in this field.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1901389
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Makeshift mechanical rides banned on Eid
March 31, 2025
LAHORE: The Punjab home department has banned the operations of temporary mechanical rides installed during Eid holidays, fairs, festivals and other seasonal events for a short period of time at any location of Punjab on the eve of Eidul Fitr.
The home department has written to all the deputy commissioners to ban temporary mechanical rides as a large number of people, including children are expected to visit amusement parks, open places, gaming zones, play areas, halls etc., for enjoying mechanical rides during the Eidul Fitr holidays.
The home department has desired that mechanical rides installed on permanent basis at different parks, theme parks, play areas, etc. are allowed to operate subject to the provision of fitness certificate by the owners/operators of mechanical rides to their respective deputy commissioners “verifying that each rides has undergone the necessary inspections and meet all regulatory standards for the safety, protection of public”.
Source:dawn.com
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Sahiwal PTI activist held over posts against COAS, state organs
March 31, 2025
SAHIWAL: A Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) youth activist was booked and arrested under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act-2016 (Peca) for allegedly posting “disgraceful and illegal remarks” about state security institutions and the chief of army staff (COAS) on popular social media platform.
The suspect, identified as Iftikhar Ahmed, son of Muhammad Bota, a permanent resident of Village 73/4-R, Tehsil Sahiwal, was nominated in first information report under Sections 189 and 500 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and Sections 18 and 20 of the Peca 2016 on the complaint of Soor Shah Sub-Inspector Muhammad Afzal.
According to reports, Iftikhar Ahmed posted seven offensive posts from his Facebook account (@Ranaiffimadni targeting the army chief and state security institutions. These posts were made on various dates — Feb 25, and March 12, 14, 19, 22, and 25, 2025.
The FIR states SI Afzal encountered the social media posts during his mobile duty at Gamber Mor, Noor Shah. The posts were also corroborated by constables Ali Raza and Abdur Rouf, as well as driver Rashid, on March 28.
The case was subsequently transferred to Inspector Shahid Nazir, District Investigation Branch (DIB), Civil Lines Police Station, Sahiwal.
Nazir, talking to Dawn, confirmed that the suspect was apprehended on Saturday night and is currently in police custody. The local village sources said Iftikhar works as salesman to earn his living.
HASH: Saddar and Chak Badian police, Pakpattan, arrested two drugs traffickers including a woman and recovered 13 kg hashish in two separate raids on the eve of Eid.
Chak Badian police on a tip-off stopped a car near Amar Singh locality but car driver accelerated the speed.
Later, the driver identified as Nadeem stopped the car and hid himself in fields. Police searched and arrested Nadeem with 10 kg hashish.
Police claimed that Nadeem was involved in inter-district drug smuggling gang.
In another incident, a lady constable Farwa Mustafa on a tip-off followed and later searched a woman shopper. Police found 3 kg hashish packed in three packets.
The women was identified as Musrat, a resident of Faridnagar. Police booked both traffickers under Section 9 (1)3c, The Control of Narcotics Substance Act 1999.
Certifications were announced for the police constables.
Source:dawn.com
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ASWJ worker shot dead in Karachi’s Quaidabad targeted attack
March 31, 2025
KARACHI: A local leader of the outlawed Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ) was shot dead and his father was injured in a suspected targeted attack in Landhi on Sunday evening, police and the party officials.
Quaidabad SHO Rana Khushi Mohammed said that Qari Abdul Rehman and his father, Gul Rehman, were present at their shop in Sherpao Colony when assailants riding on a motorbike arrived there. One of them got off the bike, opened fire on the duo and rode away with his accomplice.
They suffered critical bullet wounds and were taken to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, where Qari Rehman was pronounced dead. His father was admitted for treatment.
The officer said that the deceased was associated with the banned ASWJ and it appeared to be a targeted attack.
ASWJ spokesperson Umar Muawia told Dawn Qari Rehman was the president of the party’s local chapter. He said it was an act of terrorism and demanded that killers be arrested forthwith.
Rangers man shot dead by robbers
A Pakistan Rangers man was shot dead by robbers in Sohrab Goth on Sunday afternoon, police said.
They said that Zaheerudin, 22, was shot and killed at Fateh Mohammed Goth near Abdullah Masood Masjid when he resisted a robbery bid.
He suffered multiple bullet wounds in the chest and thigh and was taken to the Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.
A police spokesperson said in a statement that the victim belonged to the paramilitary force and came to his home on leave.
25 rescued as fire erupts in residential building Over two dozen people, including women and children, were rescued when a fire broke out in the basement of a residential building in Gulistan-i-Jauhar, spreading up to 9th floor on late Saturday night.
A Rescue-1122 official told Dawn that the fire erupted in the basement of Palm Residency in Block-3-A due to some short circuit. It spread upto ninth floor of the building through the corridor.
As smoke spread in the apartment, the firefighters rescued 25 people including women and children.
The official added that four fire tenders managed to control the blaze after hectic efforts lasting for several hours.
Couple, granddaughter die in accident A man, his wife and their granddaughter were killed in a traffic accident on Mai Kolachi Road late on Saturday night, police said on Sunday.
DIG-South Syed Asad Raza told Dawn that the couple, along with their infant granddaughter, were riding a motorcycle when a rashly-driven car hit them near Mai Kolachi phatak. Receiving critical injuries, they were transported to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre where Abdul Sattar, 62, and his wife Amna, 50, were pronounced as dead on arrival, said police surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed.
Their granddaughter succumbed to injuries during treatment at the neurosurgery ward, added Dr Syed.
The police have arrested the driver, identified as Danish Zia, and impounded the car.
Quoting witnesses, DIG Raza said the accident appeared to be an outcome of speeding and negligent driving.
Source:dawn.com
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President, PM emphasise lessons of gratitude, compassion on Eidul Fitr
March 31, 2025
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended their heartfelt greetings to the nation on the occasion of Eidul Fitr, state-run Radio Pakistan reported on Monday.
In their separate messages, they emphasised that this day teaches lessons of joy, gratitude, brotherhood, and compassion.
President Zardari said Eidul Fitr teaches the importance of unity and solidarity, encouraging everyone to support one another and contribute to steering Pakistan toward progress and prosperity.
He also prayed for the people of Indian-held Kashmir, pleading Allah Almighty to grant them freedom and bless them with the joy of Eid soon.
Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz highlighted that Pakistan currently faced threats from both internal and external enemies.
He stressed the need to avoid all forms of extremism, hatred, and sectarianism. To ensure the nation’s integrity and stability, he called for unity and vigilance to prevent any conspiracy from succeeding.
The premier said the government was making every effort to achieve economic recovery, maintain peace and order, and ensure social stability.
He commended the sacrifices of the armed forces of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and extended solidarity to the bereaved families of the martyrs.
He also prayed for the martyrs of the Jaffar Express hijacking incident.
PM Shehbaz further encouraged people to remember their oppressed brothers and sisters of Palestine and Indian-held Kashmir, who are engaged in their struggle for freedom.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for them and urged the international community to act swiftly to halt human rights violations and deliver justice to these innocent Muslims.
The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee said on Sunday, after sighting the moon for the Islamic month of Shawwal, that Pakistan would mark the first day of Eidul Fitr on Monday (today).
In a message posted last evening, PM Shehbaz expressed his felicitations for Eidul Fitr and the conclusion of Ramazan, which he noted as “a time in which Allah Almighty granted us the honor and privilege of fasting, prayer, and spiritual renewal.”
“On this blessed day, I pray that Allah continues to bless our nation with lasting security, stability, and prosperity, and grants peace and tranquility to the Islamic world and all of humanity,” he said in a post on X.
“Eid Mubarak, and may the year ahead brings abundant joy, health and lasting happiness.”
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1901475/president-pm-emphasise-lessons-of-gratitude-compassion-on-eidul-fitr
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Mideast
Three killed in Israeli strike targeting Hezbollah militant in Beirut
April 01, 2025
BEIRUT: At least three people were killed and seven wounded in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburbs early on Tuesday, the Lebanese health ministry said, further testing a shaky four-month ceasefire between Israel and the Iran-aligned group.
The Israeli military said in a statement that it attacked a Hezbollah militant “who had recently directed Hamas operatives and assisted them.”
There was no immediate statement from Hezbollah on the identity of the target.
Israel resumed a ground and air campaign in the Gaza enclave last month, demanding that Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, lay down its arms.
The strike in Beirut appeared to have damaged the upper three floors of a building in the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital, a Hezbollah stronghold known as the Dahiyeh, a Reuters reporter at the scene said, with the balconies of those floors blown out. The glass on the floors below was intact, indicating a target strike. Ambulances were at the scene to recover casualties.
There was no evacuation warning issued for the area ahead of the strike, and families fled in the aftermath to other parts of Beirut, according to witnesses.
The November truce halted the year-long conflict and mandated that southern Lebanon be free of Hezbollah fighters and weapons, that Lebanese troops deploy to the area and that Israeli ground troops withdraw from the zone. But each side accuses the other of not entirely living up to those terms.
The US-brokered ceasefire has looked increasingly flimsy lately. Israel delayed a promised troop withdrawal in January and said in March that it had intercepted rockets fired from Lebanon, which led it to bombard targets in Beirut’s southern suburbs and southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah has denied any involvement in the rocket firings.
The US State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the latest attack.
The war in Gaza has killed more than 50,000 Palestinians, according to Palestinian health authorities. The campaign began on Oct. 7, 2023 when Hamas militants stormed across the border, and Israel said the militants killed more than 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took some 250 people into captivity in Gaza.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2595520/middle-east
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At least 322 children reportedly killed in Gaza in 10 days: UN
March 31, 2025
UNITED NATIONS: Israel’s renewed offensive in Gaza has reportedly left at least 322 children dead and 609 wounded in the Palestinian territory in the past 10 days, UNICEF said Monday.
The figures include children who were reportedly killed or wounded when the surgical department of Al Nasser Hospital, in southern Gaza, was hit in an attack on March 23, the UN children’s agency said in a statement.
UNICEF said most of these children were displaced, and sheltering in makeshift tents or damaged homes.
Ending a nearly two-month ceasefire in the war with Hamas, Israel resumed intense bombing of Gaza on March 18 and then launched a new ground offensive.
“The ceasefire in Gaza provided a desperately needed lifeline for Gaza’s children and hope for a path to recovery,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
“But children have again been plunged into a cycle of deadly violence and deprivation.”
Russell added: “All parties must adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect children.”
The UNICEF statement said that after nearly 18 months of war, more than 15,000 children have reportedly been killed, over 34,000 reportedly injured, and nearly one million children have been displaced repeatedly and denied basic services.
UNICEF called for an end to hostilities and for Israel to end its ban on humanitarian aid entering Gaza, which has been in force since March 2.
It also said children who are sick or wounded should be evacuated to receive medical attention.
“Food, safe water, shelter, and medical care have become increasingly scarce. Without these essential supplies, malnutrition, diseases and other preventable conditions will likely surge, leading to an increase in preventable child deaths,” UNICEF said.
“The world must not stand by and allow the killing and suffering of children to continue,” it added.
Source:arabnews.com
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US says new Syria government ‘positive step’ but too early for sanctions relief
March 31, 2025
WASHINGTON: The United States on Monday called the formation of a new Syrian government a positive step, but said it would not ease sanctions until it has verified progress on priorities including acting against “terrorism.”
Syria’s interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa on Saturday named a new government that is mostly Sunni Muslim, a sharp change following the overthrow of longtime ruler Bashar Assad, a member of the Alawite minority.
“We recognize the struggles of the Syrian people who have suffered decades under despotic rule and oppression of the Assad regime, and we hope this announcement represents a positive step for an inclusive and representative Syria,” State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters.
“However, Syria’s interim authorities should fully renounce and suppress terrorism, exclude foreign terrorist fighters from any official roles (and) prevent Iran and its proxies from exploiting Syrian territory,” Bruce said.
She also called on the interim authorities to “take meaningful steps to verifiably destroy Assad’s chemical weapons, assist in the recovery of US and other citizens who have been disappeared in Syria, and ensure the security and freedoms of Syria’s religious and ethnic minorities.”
On sanctions, “any adjustment to US policy toward Syria’s interim authorities will be contingent on all of those steps being taken,” she said.
The European Union has spoken of moving toward easing some Syria sanctions, while Britain and Canada have already lifted some measures.
Source:arabnews.com
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International Quds Day: A Philosophy of Existence
By: Najah Mohammed Ali
Apr 1, 2025
Here is the full text of Najah Mohammed Ali's note on the International Quds Day:
International Quds Day is not just a day dedicated to Jerusalem. It is a day when the oppressed confront the arrogant, a day when free nations stand against the tyrannical powers. It is a day to warn all oppressive forces that Islam is no longer under their control and will not submit to their evil dominance. It is a day of Islam’s revival, a day to rekindle Islamic values, and beyond that, a day of humanity—because the issue of Palestine is a humanitarian one, not merely a national matter concerning a land called Palestine.
On August 7, 1979 (16 Mordad 1358 in the Persian calendar), just five months after the glorious victory of the Islamic Revolution in Iran, Imam Khomeini (may God bless his soul) wisely called upon Muslims and all the free people of the world to designate the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan as “Quds Day”—a day on which Muslims and freedom-seekers would declare their solidarity in supporting “the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.”
Imam Khomeini (may God have mercy on him) said about Quds Day:
“Quds Day is not just a day for Palestine; it is a day for Islam. Quds Day is a global day, not just a day for Jerusalem. It is a day when the oppressed confront the arrogant.”
Imam Khomeini’s visionary decision to establish International Quds Day created an opportunity to showcase the unity and will of the Islamic Ummah, along with other free nations, in resolving the Palestinian issue and eliminating the cancerous tumor of the Zionist regime—an ultimate priority for the Islamic world. This strategic decision, made after 31 years of intense rivalry and struggle, emphasized that the ideal of liberating Jerusalem is an undeniable historical necessity, forming a bridge between the past, present, and future of the Muslim world.
The occupation of Palestine was the beginning of a grand scheme aimed at instilling a sense of humiliation within the Islamic Ummah. As a result, the major Zionist project sought to undermine Muslim capabilities. However, Palestinian resistance and the stance of certain Islamic nations prevented this plan from fully materializing. With the emergence of the Islamic Revolution in Iran, the Zionists and their supporters were struck with panic. Soon after, the Islamic resistance in Palestine and southern Lebanon emerged, injecting fresh blood into the veins of the Islamic world, heralding the return of the Ummah to its rightful position. Then, the free Yemenis entered the battlefield with astonishing stances that reshaped many of the parameters of the struggle.
On the occasion of Quds Day, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, stated:
“Quds Day is, in the truest sense, an Islamic and global day; it is a day when the Iranian nation, alongside other ambitious nations—which, fortunately, have multiplied today—can shout the word of truth that the arrogant powers have sought to suppress.”
For decades, they have tried to erase the issue of Palestine from the global conscience. For over seventy-seven years, they have attempted to wipe Palestine off the world map. In this, they have seen some success. However, the Islamic Revolution struck them hard. The establishment of the Islamic Republic, the declaration of Quds Day, and the transformation of the usurping regime’s embassy into the Embassy of Palestine in Tehran served as a warning bell for the global powers that played a role in the creation of the Zionist entity.
Fortunately, this movement toward the liberation of Quds and Palestine is growing stronger every day. However, Quds Day must be regarded as a day of unity and convergence for the Islamic Ummah—a day to confront the Zionist regime’s arrogant and expansionist efforts to sow discord, create sinister alliances, incite international conflicts, and fuel sectarian divisions within Islam.
Unfortunately, in recent years, part of the global arrogance and Zionist conspiracy to erase the Palestinian cause has materialized, aided by the ignorance and betrayal of some reactionary Arab rulers.
In this reality, it is crucial to highlight that certain Arab leaders are actively working to bury the Palestinian cause, endorsing a project that aims to liquidate it altogether—turning it into a mere “Israeli issue” or a border dispute between the Zionist entity and its neighboring states, particularly those in the resistance front.
Instead of standing against the main enemies of the Ummah—the Zionist regime and the United States—and alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people, these Arab rulers have instead played their role in suppressing resistance fighters, tearing apart their own countries, and fueling destruction in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon, Afghanistan, and other Islamic nations.
Regarding these efforts to erase Palestine from global consciousness, Ayatollah Khamenei stated:
“For many years, they have tried to make us forget the issue of Quds. But Quds Day is an arrow to the heart of this conspiracy. It is a step toward thwarting this heinous plot, in which global arrogance, Zionism, and their accomplices and collaborators have united to completely erase the Palestinian cause from memory.”
Yet, on Quds Day, where truth resounds despite conspiratorial silence, the Iranian people took to the streets in their millions, their voices roaring with conviction, their hearts beating with resolve, affirming that Jerusalem is not just a city—it is a cause of existence, a battle for justice, and a symbol for all the oppressed worldwide.
From Tehran to Mashhad, from Isfahan to Ahvaz, Palestinian flags were raised high, embracing the banners of resistance, painting a picture of the Ummah’s defiance against the Zionist project, which knows only the language of aggression.
In the Iranian capital, hundreds of thousands of people poured into the streets from multiple directions, each carrying a story of struggle, each flag fluttering in honor of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Palestine. The destination was the University of Tehran, where hundreds of thousands gathered, their faces shining with faith, believing that resistance is not just a choice but an inevitable destiny. Before the Friday sermon commenced, Zeinab Nasrallah, daughter of the living martyr in the conscience of the Ummah, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, ignited hearts with her words, emphasizing that Palestine is not alone and that Quds Day is not just an occasion—it is a renewed pledge that the occupier will vanish.
Indeed, in over 900 Iranian cities, the scene was the same: chants shaking the ground beneath the Zionists’ feet, cries reminding the world that occupation is a crime, and that nations will never forget the martyrs of Gaza, nor will they forgive the innocent bloodshed without accountability. These marches were not just demonstrations; they were a clear message: Jerusalem is not for sale, and it never will be.
Quds Day is a day when history is written with the ink of dignity, a day when the free declare that Palestine will remain despite all conspiracies and betrayals. The Zionist occupation, no matter how deeply it entrenches itself, is doomed to collapse—just as all fortresses of oppression have crumbled throughout history.
And that is why International Quds Day is the philosophy of Palestine’s existence and the means to keep its cause alive until God’s promise is fulfilled.
Source:mehrnews.com
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https://en.mehrnews.com/news/230078/International-Quds-Day-A-Philosophy-of-Existence
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Gas explosion leaves 13 casualties at Uzbek mosque
2025-03-31
Shafaq News/ On Monday, three people were killed and 10 others injured after a gas explosion struck a mosque in Uzbekistan, the country’s Emergency Ministry announced.
In a statement published on Telegram, the ministry said the blast occurred in the bathhouse of a mosque in the Andijan region, eastern Uzbekistan, confirming that an investigation is underway into the incident, which took place during the Eid al-Fitr holiday.
Source:shafaq.com
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https://shafaq.com/en/World/Gas-explosion-leaves-13-casualties-at-Uzbek-mosque
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IRGC General Warns US in Reprisal for Trump’s Threat
March, 31, 2025
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps Aerospace Force warned that thousands of American military forces across the region are potential targets after the US president threatened Iran with bombing.
People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones, Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh said on the sidelines of the Eid al-Fitr prayer in Tehran on Monday.
He was responding to US President Donald Trump who has threatened Iran with bombings and secondary tariffs.
“The Americans have at least ten bases around Iran in the region, which accommodate some 50,000 forces. This means they are sitting inside a glass room,” the IRGC general cautioned.
In remarks at the sermons of the Eid prayer on Monday, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei warned the US and the Israeli regime that if they commit any vicious acts, they will definitely receive a strong reciprocal blow from Iran.
“First, if any hostile act is committed from outside —though the likelihood is not high— it will undoubtedly be met with a strong counterstrike. Second, if the enemy, as in previous years, seeks to incite internal sedition, the nation will respond decisively to the instigators, just as it has in the past,” the Leader stated.
Source:tasnimnews.com
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https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2025/03/31/3283919/irgc-general-warns-us-in-reprisal-for-trump-s-threat
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Leader says 'strong blow' will ensue any vicious act by US or Israel
March 31, 2025
After the prayers, Ayatollah Khamenei, in his first sermon, congratulated the Iranian nation and the Islamic Ummah on the blessed occasion of Eid al-Fitr. He described this year’s Ramadan as a month of spiritual growth, coupled with political efforts and a display of faith-driven movement by the nation.
He described this holy month of fasting as one of the greatest divine blessings, a manifestation of monotheism, and a God-given opportunity for His servants to attain piety, draw closer to Him, purify their souls, and renew their spiritual lives.
“Fasting, communion with the Quran, the Nights of Qadr, invocations, supplications, and prayers are precious and human-transforming opportunities of the holy month of Ramadan,” he noted.
Ayatollah Khamenei praised the enthusiastic and meaningful participation of the people in International Quds Day rallies on the last Friday of Ramadan. He said that this great movement by the nation carried various messages for those around the world who needed to understand and recognize the Iranian people, and these messages have indeed reached their intended audience.
In his second sermon, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution said the continuation of the Zionist regime’s genocide and massacre of children in Gaza and Lebanon deeply saddened the Islamic Ummah during Ramadan. He stated that these crimes were committed under the ongoing support and assistance of the United States to the “criminal gang” that is occupying Palestine.
He further described the Zionist regime as a proxy force of colonial powers in the region, adding, “Westerners repeatedly accuse the brave nations and courageous youth of the region of acting as proxies, but it is entirely clear that the only proxy force in the region is the corrupt regime that, through warmongering, genocide, and aggression against other countries, is continuing and completing the plans of those powers that interfered in this region after World War II.”
Ayatollah Khamenei referred to the anti-terrorism claims of colonialists that rule the world through wealth and media, saying, “These very powers, who label nations’ defending of their rights and homeland as terrorism and crime, either turn a blind eye to the blatant acts of genocide and terrorism by the Zionists or actively support them.”
Elsewhere in his sermon, the Leader pointed to the assassinations of figures such as Abu Jihad, Fathi Shaqaqi, Ahmed Yassin, and Imad Mughniyeh in various countries by the Zionist regime, as well as the multiple assassinations of Iraqi scientists in operations carried out by this regime. He stated, “The United States and a number of Western countries defend these blatant acts of terrorism, while the rest of the world merely watches in silence.”
He strongly condemned the total disregard of self-proclaimed human rights advocates for the martyrdom of nearly 20,000 Palestinian children in less than two years. He stated, “Of course, nations around the world, including in Europe and the United States, protest and rally against the Zionists and the US to the extent that they are aware of these crimes.”
Ayatollah Khamenei added, “This criminal, wicked, and malevolent Zionist group must be eliminated from Palestine and the region, and by the grace and power of God, this will happen. Efforts in this regard are a religious, moral, and human duty for all of humanity.”
Highlighting the Islamic Republic’s consistent stance on regional issues, the Leader said, “Our positions remain unchanged, and the enmity of the United States and the Zionist regime is just as it has always been.”
At the end of his second sermon, Ayatollah Khamenei addressed two key points regarding recent US threats. “First, if any hostile act is committed from outside, though the likelihood is not high, it will undoubtedly be met with a strong counterstrike. Second, if the enemy, as in previous years, seeks to incite internal sedition, the nation will respond decisively to the instigators, just as it has in the past.”
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Yemen’s Houthis claim they shot down another American drone as US strikes pound country
April 01, 2025
DUBAI: Yemen’s Houthi militia claimed Tuesday that they shot down another American MQ-9 Reaper drone, even as the US kept up its campaign of intense airstrikes targeting the group.
The reported shootdown over Yemen’s contested Marib governorate came as airstrikes hit around Sanaa, the country’s militia-held capital, and Saada, a stronghold for the Houthis.
US President Donald Trump issued a new warning to both the Houthis and their main benefactor, Iran, describing the group as having “been decimated” by the campaign of strikes that began March 15.
“Many of their Fighters and Leaders are no longer with us,” Trump wrote on his social media website Truth Social. “We hit them every day and night — Harder and harder. Their capabilities that threaten Shipping and the Region are rapidly being destroyed. Our attacks will continue until they are no longer a threat to Freedom of Navigation.”
He added: “The choice for the Houthis is clear: Stop shooting at US ships, and we will stop shooting at you. Otherwise, we have only just begun, and the real pain is yet to come, for both the Houthis and their sponsors in Iran.”
Houthis claim they downed another US drone
The militia claimed to have felled a drone in Marib governorate, home to oil and gas fields still under the control of allies to Yemen’s exiled central government. Footage released on social media showed flames in the night, with a Yemeni man claiming a drone had been shot down.
Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, a Houthi military spokesman, separately claimed downing the MQ-9 drone in a prerecorded video message.
Saree described the militia targeting the drone with “a suitable locally manufactured missile.” The Houthis have surface-to-air missiles — such as the Iranian missile known as the 358 — capable of downing aircraft.
Iran denies arming the militia, though Tehran-manufactured weaponry has been found on the battlefield and in sea shipments heading to Yemen for the Shiite Houthi militia despite a United Nations arms embargo.
The US military acknowledged to The Associated Press being aware of reports of the downing of a Reaper, but declined to comment further.
General Atomics Reapers, which cost around $30 million apiece, can fly at altitudes over 40,000 feet (12,100 meters) and remain in the air for over 30 hours. The aircraft have been flown by both the US military and the CIA for years over Afghanistan, Iraq and now Yemen.
The Houthis claim they’ve shot down 20 MQ-9s over the country over the years, with 16 downed during the militia’ campaign over the Israel-Hamas war. The US military hasn’t acknowledged the total number of the drones it has lost there.
Intense US bombings began March 15
An Associated Press review has found the new American operation against the Houthis under Trump appears more extensive than those under former President Joe Biden, as the US moves from solely targeting launch sites to firing at ranking personnel as well as dropping bombs in cities.
The new campaign of airstrikes, which the Houthis now say have killed at least 61 people, started after the militia threatened to begin targeting “Israeli” ships again over Israel blocking aid entering the Gaza Strip. The militia have loosely defined what constitutes an Israeli ship, meaning many vessels could be targeted.
The Houthis targeted over 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones, sinking two vessels and killing four sailors from November 2023 until January of this year. They also launched attacks targeting American warships, though none has been hit so far.
The attacks greatly raised the Houthis’ profile as they faced economic problems and launched a crackdown targeting dissent and aid workers at home amid Yemen’s decade-long stalemated war, which has torn apart the Arab world’s poorest nation.
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New Syrian Cabinet ‘won’t be able to satisfy everyone’
April 01, 2025
DAMASCUS: The new transitional government in the Syrian Arab Republic would aim for consensus in rebuilding the war-torn country but would “not be able to satisfy everyone,” interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa said on Monday
The transitional 23-member Cabinet was named at the weekend, more than three months after Sharaa’s forces led an offensive that toppled dictator Bashar Assad. The new authorities were seeking to reunite and rebuild the country and its institutions after nearly 14 years of civil war, Sharaa told a gathering at the presidential palace broadcast on Syrian television after Eid Al-Fitr prayers.
“A new history is being written for Syria ... we are all writing it,” he said.
Sharaa said ministers had been chosen for competence and expertise, “without ideological or political orientations.” The government’s composition took into consideration “the diversity of Syrian society” while rejecting a quota system for religious or ethnic minorities, instead opting for “participation,” he said.
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Devastated Lebanon village marks Eid among its dead
April 01, 2025
AÏTAROUN, Lebanon: In the war-devastated southern Lebanese village of Aitaroun on Monday, residents marked the Muslim holiday of Eid Al-Fitr among their dead.
Relatives crowded the village’s cemeteries to pray for the more than 100 residents, including fighters from Hezbollah, killed during the war between the militant group and Israel that ended with a fragile ceasefire in November.
“We defied the entire world by being here in Aitaroun to celebrate Eid with our martyrs,” Siham Ftouni said near the grave of her son, a rescuer with an Islamic health organization affiliated with Hezbollah.
“Their blood permitted us to come back to our village,” she said.
During the war, Lebanese state media reported that Israeli troops used explosives in Aitaroun and two nearby villages to blow up houses. The town square is heavily damaged.
Few people have returned to live or to reopen businesses.
The story is the same in other villages in southern Lebanon.
In Aitaroun, more than 90 of the village’s dead — including some who died from natural causes — were buried only a month ago when Israeli troops pulled out.
Under the ceasefire, Israel had 60 days to withdraw its troops from southern Lebanon, but it did not pull most of them back until February 18 after the initial deadline was extended.
On Monday, beneath yellow Hezbollah flags, Ftouni and other women clad in black let their grief pour out.
A young girl sat near the grave of a woman, holding her photo surrounded by flowers.
Other pictures, of infants and young men in military uniform, lay on top of graves, and the sound of funeral orations triggered tears.
Some visitors handed out sweets and other foods to mourners who came from further away.
“This year, Eid is different from the years before,” said Salim Sayyed, 60, a farmer originally from Aitaroun. “Aitaroun, which lost more than 120 martyrs including many women and children, is living a sad Eid.”
He added: “The will to live will remain stronger than death.”
The war saw the killing of Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah and other commanders, and the group’s military infrastructure was devastated. Yet it continues to proclaim victory after more than a year of conflict that escalated to full-blown war and killed more than 4,000 people in Lebanon.
Despite the ceasefire deal, Israeli troops remain inside Lebanon at five points it deems strategic.
Both Hezbollah and Israel have accused each other of truce violations.
Israel has regularly carried out often-deadly air raids in south and east Lebanon since the ceasefire, striking what it says are Hezbollah military targets that violated the agreement.
On Friday Israel bombed southern Beirut for the first time since the truce after rockets were fired toward its territory.
Imad Hijazi, 55, a taxi driver, said the security uncertainty was no deterrent to those wanting to spend Eid beside the graves of their loved ones.
“The sadness was immense. Everyone was shaken by the loss of loved ones. I lost 23 members of my family in an Israeli strike,” Hijazi said.
“I was ashamed to convey Eid greetings to my relatives or my friends.”
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Syrians rejoice during first Eid after Assad’s fall
April 01, 2025
DAMASCUS: Eid Al-Fitr in Syria was charged with newfound joy this year, as thousands freely celebrated the holiday for the first time after the fall of Bashar Assad.
From the early morning hours, crowds of men, women and children flocked to pray at Damascus’s historic Umayyad Mosque in the Old City.
“This is the first time we truly feel the joy of Eid, after getting rid of Assad’s tyrannical regime,” Fatima Othman told AFP.
Following prayer, worshippers exchanged Eid greetings while street vendors sold colorful balloons and toys to children posing for photos with their parents.
“Our celebration is doubled after Assad’s fall,” said Ghassan Youssef, a resident of the capital.
A few kilometers (miles) away, on the slopes of Mount Qasyun overlooking Damascus — a site previously off-limits to Syrians until Assad was deposed on December 8 — a few thousand people gathered at Unknown Soldier Square for an open-air prayer.
Among them were members of the security forces and the army, dressed in uniform and armed. The road leading to the square was packed, according to an AFP photographer.
Some worshippers distributed sweets to celebrate, while the three-star Syrian flag, adopted by the new authorities, waved in the air.
Under the previous government, access to the Unknown Soldier monument was typically restricted to Assad and his close associates, who would lay wreaths there during national ceremonies.
The memorial, where a giant screen broadcast the Eid prayer, is near the presidential palace.
There, interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa prayed alongside Syria’s new mufti Osama Al-Rifai and several cabinet ministers in the presence of a large crowd.
He later delivered a speech emphasising the country faced “a long and arduous road to reconstruction but possesses all the resources needed to recover.”
This came two days after the formation of a new government, which faces daunting challenges in a country devastated by 14 years of civil war.
Wael Hamamiya, who had been in Sweden since the early days of the conflict, returned to Damascus to celebrate Eid with his family.
“This is my first Eid here in nearly 15 years. I truly feel the celebration in its full meaning,” he told AFP, beaming.
“Everyone who has come is over the moon. This is the celebration of celebrations!“
The occasion was more somber for some Syrians, who were able to visit the graves of loved ones that had been off-limits during Assad reign, especially in former opposition strongholds.
At Al-Rawda Cafe in Damascus, 36-year-old Amer Hallaq chatted with friends after returning from exile in Berlin where he ended up after dodging compulsory military service in 2014.
“For years, I thought I’d never see my family again or celebrate Eid with them,” Hallaq said.
“The joy of liberation and victory is immense, but there’s still a lot of work ahead. This is only the beginning of the road.”
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Israeli finance minister Smotrich resigns from post as minister in government
March 31, 2025
JERUSALEM: Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich resigned from his post as minister on Monday in a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
A spokesperson for Smotrich said the move was a protest against nationalist-religious Jewish Power party head Itamar Ben Gvir’s request for more ministerial positions upon Ben Gvir’s return to the government.
The resignation is not likely to collapse Netanyahu’s coalition. The government passed its 2025 budget in Israel’s parliament last week.
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Can Lebanon’s new central bank governor break the cycle of economic crisis?
ANAN TELLO
March 31, 2025
LONDON: As Lebanon faces up to its broken finances, neglected infrastructure and postwar reconstruction, the appointment of Karim Souaid as the new central bank governor marks an important step toward economic recovery.
On March 27, after weeks of government wrangling, 17 of the cabinet’s 24 ministers voted to name asset manager Souaid as governor of Banque du Liban, the country’s National News Agency reported.
Souaid replaces interim governor Wassim Mansouri, who led the central bank after Riad Salameh’s controversial 30-year tenure ended in 2023 — almost a year before his arrest on embezzlement, money laundering and fraud charges tied to financial commissions.
The choice of candidate was critical for both domestic and international stakeholders, as the role is key to enacting the financial reforms required by donors, including the International Monetary Fund, in exchange for a bailout.
Souaid’s appointment comes with high expectations. His priorities include restarting talks with the IMF, negotiating sovereign debt restructuring and rebuilding foreign exchange reserves.
Nafez Zouk, a sovereign analyst at Aviva Investors, told Arab News that the new central bank chief “needs to be able to demonstrate some commitment to the IMF’s approach for restructuring the banking sector.”
Souaid brings extensive experience in privatization, banking regulations and structuring large-scale economic transitions. He is also the founder and managing partner of the Bahrain-based private investment firm Growthgate Equity Partners.
However, his success as central bank chief will depend on international support, as Western nations and financial institutions have linked aid to sweeping economic reforms, including banking sector restructuring.
Last year, the EU pledged €1 billion ($1.08 billion) to help Lebanon curb refugee flows to Europe. Half was paid in August, while the rest is contingent on “some conditions,” EU Commissioner Dubravka Suica said during a February visit.
“The main precondition is the restructure of the banking sector ... and a good agreement with the International Monetary Fund,” she said after meeting Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.
However, critics have raised concerns about Souaid’s ties to Lebanon’s financial elite and members of the entrenched ruling class, fearing that his policies might favor the banking sector over broader economic reform, local media reported.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has also expressed reservations about Souaid’s appointment, saying the central bank chief “must adhere, from today, to the financial policy of our reformist government… on negotiating a new program with the IMF, restructuring the banks and presenting a comprehensive plan” to preserve depositors’ rights.
Before Souaid’s appointment, Aoun and Salam were unable to reach a consensus on a candidate, according to local media reports. The president therefore insisted on putting the matter to a Cabinet vote.
Echoing the prime minister’s apprehensions is Nasser Saidi, a former Lebanese economy minister and central bank vice governor, who raised concerns about the selection process for the new central bank chief, warning that powerful interest groups may have too much influence.
He told the Financial Times that the decision carried serious consequences for Lebanon’s economic future, saying that one of Souaid’s biggest challenges will be convincing the world to trust the nation’s banking system enough to risk investing in its recovery.
“The stakes are too high: You cannot have the same people responsible for the biggest crisis Lebanon has ever been through also trying to restructure the banking sector,” said Saidi, who served as first vice governor of the Banque du Liban for two consecutive terms.
“How are we going to convince the rest of the world that it can trust Lebanon’s banking system, and provide the country with the funding it needs to rebuild (after the war)?”
Last month, the IMF welcomed Lebanon’s request for support in tackling its protracted economic crisis. In February, after meeting with the newly appointed finance minister, Yassine Jaber, the international lender showed openness to a new loan agreement.
Lebanon’s economy has been in a state of turmoil since it suffered a financial crash in late 2019, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Beirut port blast of August 2020 and the 14-month Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
The national currency has lost more than 90 percent of its value and food prices have soared almost tenfold since May 2019. Citizens have struggled to access their savings since banks imposed strict withdrawal limits, effectively trapping deposits.
Lebanon’s prolonged crisis, triggered by widespread corruption and excessive spending by the ruling elite, has driven the country from upper-middle-income to lower-middle-income status, with gross domestic product per capita falling 36.5 percent from 2019 to 2021.
The World Bank ranks the economic collapse among the worst globally since the mid-19th century.
The Israel-Hezbollah war, which began Oct. 8, 2023, and concluded with a fragile ceasefire in November 2024, is estimated to have caused $3.4 billion in damage to Lebanese infrastructure, with economic losses of up to $5.1 billion.
Combined, these figures total 40 percent of Lebanon’s GDP.
The IMF has outlined key conditions for government action. These include addressing weak governance and implementing a fiscal strategy that combines debt restructuring with reforms to restore credibility, predictability and transparency in the fiscal framework.
It has also urged Lebanon to pursue a comprehensive financial sector restructuring, acknowledge losses at private banks and the central bank, and protect smaller depositors. Additionally, it calls for the establishment of a credible monetary and exchange rate system.
Lebanese economist Saidi said that the IMF “quite correctly and wisely” demanded comprehensive economic reforms.
In a March 14 interview with BBC’s “World Business Report,” he said that the government must address fiscal and debt sustainability, restructure public debt, and overhaul the banking and financial sector.
But hurdles remain. Saidi added that while Lebanon “has a government today that I think is willing to undertake reforms, that does not mean that parliament will go along.”
Lebanon also needs political and judicial reform, including an “independent judiciary,” he added.
Nevertheless, Saidi told the BBC that Lebanon, for the first time, has “a team that inspires confidence” and has formed a cabinet that secured parliament’s backing.
Despite this positive step, Lebanon must still address structural failures in its public institutions, rooted in decades of opacity, fragmented authority and weak accountability.
Zouk of Aviva Investors believes another big challenge to reforming the financial sector will be “the large resistance from banks and their shareholders.
“Without some degree of accountability and transparency, I struggle to see how the rest of the reform agenda can be implemented,” he said.
There are “several proposals being circulated that would run counter to the IMF and would far from restore credibility and trust to the Lebanese financial sector.”
Saidi highlighted the broader challenges Lebanon faces, cautioning that without financing for reconstruction, achieving socioeconomic and political stability will remain elusive.
“If you don’t have financing for reconstruction, you’re not going to have socioeconomic stability, let alone political stability,” he said.
“There has to be a willingness by all parties to go along with the reforms,” he added, highlighting that this is where external support is crucial, particularly from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, France, Europe and the US.
Saidi said that support must go beyond helping bring the new government to power — it must include assistance, especially in terms of security.
In March, Reuters cited five sources saying the US was engaging with Lebanon’s new government on selecting the central bank governor to combat corruption and prevent the Iran-backed Hezbollah from exploiting the banking system for illicit financing.
A US official who met the candidates before Souaid’s appointment told the news agency that the US was making its guidance on candidates’ qualifications clear to the Lebanese government.
“The guidelines are: No Hezbollah and nobody who has been caught up in corruption. This is essential from an economic perspective,” the official said.
The move, according to Reuters, highlights the US administration’s continued focus on weakening Hezbollah. The group has seen its political and military clout diminished by Israel, which decimated its leadership, drained its finances and depleted its once formidable arsenal.
Firas Modad, a Middle East analyst and founder of Modad Geopolitics, told Arab News that he believes US approval was a prerequisite for selecting the next Banque du Liban governor.
“The next governor is irrelevant,” he said a few days before Souaid’s appointment. “He will need to be approved by the Americans, and the Lebanese system will not appoint someone that the Americans do not approve of.”
Modad added that Lebanon faces a stark choice: “Normalization with Israel or civil war.” This decision will “determine whether there is a chance to rebuild the financial system and recover some money for the bondholders and smaller depositors.”
On March 22, the Israeli military mounted airstrikes on Lebanon amid renewed violence in Gaza and Yemen. A “second wave” targeted sites in southern and eastern Lebanon, according to the Israeli military.
Israel claimed that the attacks targeted “Hezbollah command centers, infrastructure sites, terrorists, rocket launchers and a weapons storage facility.” It marked the deadliest escalation since the ceasefire in late November.
Washington is pushing Lebanon’s new government to disarm Hezbollah and address longstanding issues with Israel, including border demarcation and the release of Lebanese captives through enhanced diplomatic talks.
Hezbollah, meanwhile, has rejected calls to disarm as long as Israel continues to occupy Lebanese territory.
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The "Massaharji" Journey from Ramadan to Eid al-Fitr
2025-03-31
Shafaq News/ As the holy month of Ramadan begins, long-standing traditions and social customs take center stage in Iraq, one of which is the practice of “Massaharji."
The Massaharji, typically a group of young men aged between 15 to 20, although sometimes older, play a key role in Ramadan nights. From the first day of Ramadan, they wake up residents in their communities for the pre-dawn meal, known as "suhoor," using the loud sounds of drums and tambourines. This tradition is especially prevalent in popular neighborhoods and rural areas.
Hussein Al-Jubouri, leader of one such Massaharji group from the Al-Hindiya district in Karbala province, spoke to Shafaq News Agency, explaining, "We work throughout the month of Ramadan to awaken people, preserving these inherited Ramadan customs."
Al-Jubouri added, "The joy of this work comes from being eagerly awaited by children, who join us with drums and tambourines from the beginning of Ramadan until the morning of Eid al-Fitr."
He further explained that the tradition takes on a different tone on Eid morning, as the drumming no longer serves the purpose of waking people for suhoor.
Instead, the Massaharji visit homes to offer greetings and receive small gifts from the families in their community. The total amount of money collected typically ranges from 100,000 to 150,000 Iraqi dinars.
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Arab World
Worry-free worship: Children’s clubs lighten pilgrims’ load
TAREQ AL-THAQAFI
March 31, 2025
MAKKAH: With more pilgrims making the journey to Makkah, a Children’s Club initiative is offering a secure, fun space for youngsters, freeing parents to focus on their rituals.
Childcare centers offering top-notch childcare services are available at the Two Holy Mosques, as well as hotels near the Grand Mosque.
Razan Dahlawi, an adviser to the chairman of the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques and a key figure overseeing the childcare centers, told Arab News: “The authority established several childcare centers during the holy month of Ramadan this year.
“They operate 24/7 and seek to provide safe childcare services in an enriching environment by utilizing educational and recreational programs that develop children’s capabilities and promote good values.”
According to the authority, children can enjoy a packed schedule, with Qur’an and Athkar lessons, storytelling that informs and sparks imagination, sensory and creative activities, and healthy meals.
These seasonal childcare centers are found in the third Saudi expansion (areas 12-15), facing gates 100 to 104. They welcome boys aged from 18 months to 6 years and girls from 18 months of age to 9 years.
A specialized team of counselors oversees the centers, which include a dining area, a space for visual displays, educational models depicting the landmarks of the Two Holy Mosques and the process of performing the religious duties, as well as private sleeping rooms.
Hotels near the Grand Mosque are stepping up, too, enhancing their own childcare offerings to ensure a level of service that matches their prime location.
Abdullah Hazzazi, assistant front office manager at Dar Al-Tawhid Hotel, said that the Children’s Club “creates a secure and comfortable environment for children, allowing parents to perform Umrah without worrying about their little ones.”
Entertainment and learning are combined under the supervision of childcare professionals, he added.
“The club features entertainment, educational activities, and games that contribute to their development and art workshops suitable for all ages, while also providing healthy meals and comprehensive medical care.
“We make sure to update parents regularly on their children’s well-being, so they can perform the rites with peace of mind,” Hazzazi said.
Hadeel Al-Harbi, Shaza Makkah Hotel’s children’s club manager, said that children are welcomed for up to two hours at a time, with the service free for hotel guests.
“We are keen to offer a variety of activities suitable for different age groups, including educational games, art workshops and entertaining activities that help develop children’s skills and make use of their time there,” she said.
Al-Harbi said that she would encourage all pilgrims to take advantage of the service.
“The club is an ideal solution for families seeking to comfortably and safely perform their rites,” she said.
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Taif governor receives officials for Eid Al-Fitr
March 31, 2025
TAIF: Taif Gov. Prince Saud bin Nahar received Eid Al-Fitr well-wishers, including dignitaries, military leaders, directors of government departments, sheikhs, and a group of citizens.
Prince Saud conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
He noted the great efforts and services provided by the Kingdom to the millions of visitors and pilgrims from within the country and around the world who visit the Two Holy Mosques during the holy month of Ramadan.
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Saudi project clears 607 Houthi mines in Yemen
March 31, 2025
RIYADH: Members of Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam removed 607 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week.
The total included 561 unexploded ordnances, 21 anti-personnel mines, 20 anti-tank mines and five explosive devices, according to a recent report.
Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the initiative’s managing director, said a total of 486,108 mines had been cleared since its inception in 2018.
The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.
The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.
The initiative trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.
Teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate safe movement for civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
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Saudi Arabia launches Hajj packages for domestic pilgrims via Nusuk app
RASHID HASSAN
March 31, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched this year’s Hajj packages for citizens and residents of the Kingdom, now available for booking through the Nusuk app and its dedicated electronic portal.
In line with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expanding access to the annual pilgrimage, the ministry has launched Hajj packages with priority booking for first-time pilgrims, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
According to the ministry, pilgrims must have completed the mandatory meningitis vaccination to access packages, with appointments available through the Sehhaty app.
The Nusuk platform offers a user-friendly experience, allowing pilgrims to browse and book packages with various payment options.
The Nusuk app also enables pilgrims to purchase essential Hajj items, including ihram clothing and personal necessities, as well as book flight tickets within their packages, streamlining the entire pilgrimage journey.
Welcoming the announcement, Arif Anwar, an Alkhobar resident, told Arab News: “It’s great news, I was waiting for it. Now I will make the booking via Nusuk for me and my family, and (we are) looking forward to it as priority will be given to individuals who have not previously performed this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage, to allow more Muslims to fulfil this one of the five pillars of Islam in a spiritually inclusive and accessible environment.”
Abdulrahman Qahtani, a Jeddah native, said: "It was awaited. I am keen to perform Hajj this year, and by fulfilling the requirements mentioned by the ministry, I will now apply via Nusuk to perform this one of the five key pillars of Islam."
Wissam Dekmak, a Lebanese resident in Riyadh, said: "It is exciting for all residents to hear this announcement, allowing us to plan and book Hajj well in advance. We can now easily reserve packages through the Nusuk app and portal. It is an amazing initiative that simplifies the process and prioritizes those who haven't yet experienced Hajj."
Packages are accessible through the electronic portal at masar.nusuk.sa/individuals/local-pilgrims.
"We offer pilgrims a variety of Hajj packages provided by authorized service provider companies, ensuring a seamless Hajj experience," according to Nusuk portal.
The Hajj package starts at SR8,092 ($2,157) for the Al-Diyafah camp in Mina with shared accommodation. The second package is offered at SR10,366 with an upgraded camp providing high-quality service.
The third package costs SR13,150 for the six towers in Mina, located near the Jamarat bridge. The fourth package, Kidana Al-Wadi Towers, is valued at SR12,537, offering luxurious accommodation in modern towers with advanced facilities and meals.
The launch is part of a wider digital transformation of the Hajj experience, with the Nusuk platform serving as a comprehensive digital companion.
The ministry receives pilgrims’ inquiries via the Pilgrims’ Care Center at 1966 (available 24/7) or the beneficiary care account on X (@MOHU_Care).
Source:arabnews.com
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Kingdom extends aid to global communities
March 31, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has delivered thousands of food packages to some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
In Somalia, KSrelief provided 138 tonnes of dates to the World Food Programme, benefiting 200,000 people.
The agency also distributed 5,500 bags of rice in the Benadir region, reaching 33,000 people as part of its Eid Al-Fitr Zakat project, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting those in need during the holiday.
Meanwhile, KSrelief distributed aid to multiple countries. In Lebanon, 660 food parcels were provided to displaced Syrians and Palestinian refugees, benefiting 3,300 people.
In Sudan, 600 food packages were delivered to the New Hayya Locality of Red Sea State, aiding 4,164 vulnerable people.
In the Syrian Arab Republic, the Saudi aid agency distributed 7,600 cartons of dates in Aleppo, 5,307 in Homs and 1,554 in Zamalka.
Additional distributions in Idlib and Aleppo governorates included 4,016 food parcels and hygiene kits, assisting 12,048 people.
In Mali, KSrelief delivered 800 food packages in Segou, supporting 4,010 of the most vulnerable people.
Source:arabnews.com
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Historic market in Madinah fuels local economy
March 31, 2025
RIYADH: Madinah’s central market is a key shopping destination, supplying thousands of stores and acting as a logistics hub with hundreds of trucks delivering local and imported goods.
This vibrant hub continues Madinah’s long-standing commercial heritage, dating back to the time of Prophet Muhammad, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Madinah has historically been a thriving commercial center, hosting famous markets offering textiles, gold, dates, and other goods for residents, pilgrims, and Umrah performers.
Covering 160,000 square meters, the market meets the city’s growing needs, housing more than 1,100 shops, storage yards for agricultural products, cold storage spaces, and areas for displaying fruits and vegetables.
It also includes parking for refrigerator trucks, ensuring efficient handling and display of fresh produce, SPA reported.
This infrastructure allows the central market to circulate large quantities of fruits and vegetables, maintaining competitive prices under the Madinah municipality’s supervision.
Source:arabnews.com
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New technology to purify drinking water will be expanded in Saudi Arabia
March 31, 2025
RIYADH: New technology to purify drinking water using an electrical charge will be expanded in Saudi Arabia after an agreement to increase its use over the next four years.
The capacitive deionization technology will be used to treat around 3,500 cubic meters of water per day and provide clean drinking water.
Stockholm Water Technology has signed an agreement with Saudi company DRC-ChemTec to implement the technology over the next four years.
The Swedish company has also put forward a proposal to use the technology to treat wastewater in the Kingdom so that it can be used for agriculture.
The company said in a statement that this proposal includes a plan to remove micropollutants such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals from treated wastewater.
By passing an electrical current through water, the technology removes contaminants without the need for membrane filters or chemical treatment.
Currently, Saudi Arabia primarily uses two forms of desalination to provide clean drinking water: thermal desalination and reverse osmosis.
Thermal desalination uses fossil fuels to heat and evaporate seawater and collect the clean condensation, while reverse osmosis passes water through a filter-like membrane to remove contaminants.
Capacitive deionization has the potential to minimize waste and reduce energy consumption in water purification.
“Saudi Arabia’s water treatment market is at the forefront of sustainable practices, driven by the urgent need for clean, safe water across industries and a growing focus on water recycling and reuse,” said Karthik Laxman, CEO of Stockholm Water Technology, in a statement.
Husam Aljarba, strategic business development director at DRC-ChemTec, added: “DRC foresees strong growth in the residential and industrial segments, where the flexibility of SWT water treatment systems will provide unique value to customers.”
The Swedish company will supply 1,750 of its systems and will initially focus on providing drinking water. It will then expand into industrial and municipal wastewater treatment.
DRC-ChemTec will install and service the technology and manufacture associated parts, strengthening local production capacity.
Desalination accounts for around 75 percent of Saudi Arabia’s water supply, with the Kingdom producing more than 13.2 million cubic meters per day.
Source:arabnews.com
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Rare Kaaba interior coverings showcased at Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
March 31, 2025
JEDDAH — The Islamic Arts Biennale showcasing two rare masterpieces from the Kaaba’s interior kiswa, offering a remarkable window into the rich heritage of Islamic craftsmanship and its deep spiritual symbolism.
The Biennale currently underway at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah under the theme “And all that is in between”.
Unlike the well-known exterior kiswa woven, these two inner coverings once adorned the columns and walls inside the Holy Kaaba.
They are part of a centuries-old tradition in which the interior was also draped with elaborately designed textiles, particularly during the accession of new rulers.
From the 10th century AH (16th century AD), the interior kiswa extended beyond the walls to include the Kaaba's three columns. Ottoman records refer to them as “Hannan, Mannan, Dayyan,” names that became part of the decorative tradition in later centuries.
The two displayed coverings are noted for their unique design, differing from their outer counterparts in both form and style.
They feature intricate geometric patterns in ivory or yellow set against a red backdrop, with narrow bands inscribed with verse 144 from Surat Al-Baqarah, which commands Muslims to face the Kaaba in prayer.
One of the pieces on display, believed to have been woven in the Turkish city of Bursa during the 12th to 13th centuries AH (18th–19th centuries AD), is part of the collection at the National Museum of Asian Art. Its presence at the Biennale underscores the global appreciation for Islamic artistic heritage.
Source:saudigazette.com.sa
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https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/650576/SAUDI-ARABIA/Rare-Kaaba-interior-coverings-showcased-at-Islamic-Arts-Biennale-in-Jeddah
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Haramain High-Speed Railway transports over 1.2 million passengers during Ramadan
March 31, 2025
JEDDAH — The Haramain High-Speed Railway transported more than 1.2 million passengers during the holy month of Ramadan 1446 AH, marking a 21% increase compared to the previous year, Acting President of the Transport General Authority (TGA) Dr. Rumaih Al-Rumaih announced on Sunday.
Dr. Al-Rumaih confirmed the success of the Kingdom’s integrated transport operational plans for the Ramadan season, which reflected high performance across multiple sectors — including railways, public buses, ride-hailing services, delivery apps, and postal logistics.
“During Ramadan, we provided integrated transport services that met the significant increase in demand, achieving record figures that reflect the sector's readiness and operational efficiency,” he said.
“We prioritized coordination between public and private sector partners to ensure smooth mobility and enhance the quality of experience for all beneficiaries.”
Public transport buses carried over 10 million passengers within cities during Ramadan, with Makkah and Madinah accounting for 34% of the total.
The ride-hailing sector also saw notable growth, with more than 7.8 million trips completed — an 81% surge compared to last year. Car rental contracts exceeded 400,000, marking a 26% rise.
In the logistics sector, over 20 million delivery orders were fulfilled via mobile apps, with Makkah and Madinah representing 32.8% of the total.
Additionally, more than 26 million shipments and postal parcels were delivered through 72 licensed companies — an 18% increase year-on-year.
Dr. Al-Rumaih reiterated the TGA’s ongoing regulatory and supervisory efforts aimed at enhancing transport service quality and operational efficiency in line with Saudi Arabia’s national strategy for transport and logistics.
He also praised the role of government agencies and private sector partners, whose joint efforts contributed to the implementation of the Kingdom’s Ramadan mobility plans and improved the experience of Umrah performers and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques.
Source:saudigazette.com.sa
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Europe
At least five killed in explosion at Spanish mine
March 31, 2025
At least five people have died in an explosion at a mine in northern Spain, officials say.
The blast happened at the Cerredo mine in Degaña, Asturias, some 450km (278 miles) north-west of Madrid around 09:30 (07:30 GMT) on Monday.
Emergency services said they had been called about a "problem with a machine" at the mine. Ambulances, fire and rescue services were sent.
At least four other people were injured. Two more were initially reported missing but were accounted for by early afternoon, officials said.
The five victims were all residents of Spain's north-western province of León and aged between 32 and 54, the Spanish government's delegation in Asturias said.
The injured were taken to local hospitals for treatment.
The mining rescue brigade also deployed its canine unit.
Local media, citing an Asturian spokesperson, reported that workers had been at the mine under a permit to extract minerals to produce graphite.
According to ABC España, the site had been a major mine before its closure in 2018, and had since been intermittently used by private companies to extract the mineral anthracite.
It is not yet known how many people were at the mine at the time of the explosion.
President of Asturias Adrián Barbón ordered two days of mourning in the region.
The region's civil protection plan, designed to control emergencies, was activated at its lowest level. This indicates a localised situation that may be controlled by available resources.
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez sent his condolences to the families of the victims.
"I wish a speedy recovery to those injured," he wrote on X.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9dj1dx0y78o
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Girl, 11, missing in Thames in east London
April 1, 2025
An 11-year-old girl is missing after she went into the River Thames in east London, police have said.
Metropolitan Police were called to reports the girl had entered the river close to Bargehouse Causeway in North Woolwich, at about 13:15 BST.
A "large scale" search was launched - but it was scaled down a few hours later, with London Ambulance Service (LAS) and London Fire Brigade (LFB) saying the police were now in charge of the operation.
It is believed the girl and some friends were on a slipway by the waterside before the girl went into the water.
Neighbours tried to help after some youngsters raised the alarm.
One woman who lives nearby got a lifeguard ring and ran over - but she said she couldn't find the girl.
"I found her clothes - socks, shoes and jacket and a mobile phone and gave them to the police.
"There was a little boy with her and he said he tried to hold her hand to pull her out but her hand slipped.
"It was terrible."
The LFB, which used its drone team and fire boat, said search operations for firefighters concluded at about 15:50 BST, when "responsibility for the incident was left with the police".
Also in attendance were HM Coastguard, the RNLI, the London Ambulance Service, including a hazardous area response team, and the Metropolitan Police Service.
Source:bbc.com
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UK braces for new US tariffs – media
31 Mar, 2025
The UK is preparing for a new wave of US trade tariffs that could be imposed this week, several media outlets reported on Monday, citing Downing Street.
Few details about the potential tariffs have been made public so far, but they could cut the size of the British economy by 1%, Reuters has reported, citing estimates by Britain's Office for Budget Responsibility. A tax hike is also possible in the fall because of the new trade restrictions, according to The Guardian.
US President Donald Trump is expected to announce the new measures on Wednesday as part of what he calls “Liberation Day.” The Trump administration maintains it seeks to slash the $1.2 trillion trade deficit by raising tariffs on global goods and counteracting non-tariff barriers created by other nations.
“We have been actively preparing for all eventualities ahead of the expected announcement from President Trump this week, which (we) would expect the UK to be impacted alongside other countries,” a spokesman for the British prime minister, Keir Starmer, told journalists on Monday.
London is currently seeking to strike a trade deal with Washington, which would exempt it from further rounds of trade barriers but the agreement is unlikely to be reached in the coming days, The Guardian reported, citing sources.
“This is an unpredictable situation and an unpredictable administration,” a British official told the paper. “We’re having to plan for every scenario.” People familiar with the matter also told the media outlet that London would not immediately respond to the US tariffs in order not to jeopardize the talks that are expected to continue regardless of any new tariffs imposed.
Talks between London and Washington would “continue at pace this week,” Starmer said following a phone call with Trump on Sunday night. The UK prime minister called it a part of “productive negotiations,” adding that the sides agreed to “stay in touch” in the coming days.
Last week, Trump announced his plans to introduce a 25% tariff on car imports that would hit British automakers such as Bentley and Aston Martin. A 25% tariff on steel imports that has already been imposed by the US president has prompted the UK’s sole remaining producer of virgin steel to consider closing its only remaining plant in the country.
Source:.rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/business/615060-uk-new-us-tariffs/
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Britain’s State Broadcaster Just Aired an Eid Ceremony for the First Time.
April 1, 2025
❓What Happened: The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) broadcasted a live Eid service from a mosque on British terrestrial TV for the first time.👥 Who’s Involved: The BBC host Jason Mohammad, Firecracker Scotland, Amplify Consulting, Daisy Scalchi, and Aaqil Ahmed.
📍 Where & When: Bradford Central Mosque, during the morning of Eid.💬 Key Quote: Daisy Scalchi stated, “This feels like it is absolutely the right moment to be doing something loudly and proudly, celebrating this key moment in the calendar.”⚠️ Impact: This marks a historic broadcast, as Islam continues to gain cultural dominance despite widespread anti-mass migration protests, sometimes aimed against mosques, last year.
IN FULL:
The BBC, funded by a compulsory television license, has made history by airing a live Eid service from a mosque on British terrestrial television for the first time. The program, Eid Live, was broadcast from Bradford Central Mosque. The city’s demographics have been transformed by Islamic immigration in recent decades.The broadcast was part of the BBC’s ongoing Faith and Hope season, designed to promote “inclusive” programming. As part of the celebration, an additional show, Celebrity Eid, will bring together prominent Muslim figures and non-Muslims later in the day.DaisyScalchi, responsible for religious content commissioning at the BBC, expressed surprise that such a broadcast had not occurred earlier. The initiative is part of a broader BBC effort to enhance religious output, and Scalchi highlighted collaborations with departments like BBC Children’s and BBC Sounds to enrich their religious programming. Firecracker Scotland, in collaboration with Amplify Consulting, is producing the Eid content.Bradford is currently being celebrated as the UK City of Culture—a controversial decision, with Bradford having been a hotbed for so-called “grooming gangs,” comprised primarily of Muslim men who drug, rape, and pimp mostly white working-class girls.Image by Time Green.
Source:thenationalpulse.com
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https://thenationalpulse.com/2025/03/31/bbc-broadcasts-first-live-eid-ceremony-in-british-tv-history/
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Worshippers at London mosque mark end of Ramadan
April 1, 2025
Members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim gathered together at Baitul Futuh Mosque for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations as the month of Ramadan came to an end.
The mosque in south-west London is thought to be the largest in Britain with a capacity for 13,000 worshippers.
It was completed in 2003 at a cost of £15m, entirely from donations of Ahmadi Muslims.
Source:bbc.com
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Over 700 Muslims meet at John Smith's Stadium in Huddersfield to celebrate Eid
31 MAR 2025
Hundreds of Muslims gathered at Huddersfield's John Smith's Stadium to celebrate Eid al-Fitr - the 'festival of breaking the fast' - which follows the end of Ramadan.
Around 700 members of Huddersfield's Ahmadiyya Muslim Association gathered in a room at the stadium from 9.30 this morning for a day of spiritual reflection and community bonding. Eid al-Fitr takes place the day after the new moon is seen at the end of the month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
Fatihulhaq, the external affairs secretary for the Association, said: "Eid al-Fitr is not only a celebration following the blessed month of Ramadan but also a reminder of the countless blessings Allah bestows upon us.
"It teaches us the virtues of self-discipline, charity, and compassion - guidance we embraced during Ramadan and will carry throughout the year."
Special prayers were offered for world peace and stability, as well as for those suffering from wars, conflicts, and disasters.
The celebration was enriched by the distribution of sweets, including chocolates, to all attendees, while food parcels were donated to the less fortunate.
A spokesman for the Association said that, under the motto Love for all, Hatred for None, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association had reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, community cohesion, and the values of compassion and charity.
Source:examinerlive.co.uk
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https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/news/west-yorkshire-news/over-700-muslims-meet-john-31319570
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'Je suis Marine': European rightwingers react to Le Pen ban
April 1, 2025
Marine Le Pen is an icon of France's nationalist right: one of the country's best-known and most popular political figures - with her France First, anti-woke, anti-migration agenda.
Far-right leaders, currently growing in support across much of Europe, view her as 'one of the gang' - even if they don't see eye to eye on every issue.
Many of these leaders took to social media on Monday, after Le Pen was banned from running for political office for five years having been accused, alongside others, of embezzling over $4m (£3.1m) of EU funds for use in France by her National Rally party.
For them, this was an opportunity, not simply to show support for Le Pen but to use her case to highlight what they see as their common cause – a struggle against a politically traditional mainstream, that seeks to muzzle or undermine their nationalist agenda.
But for Le Pen, this could be the death knell of her long-cherished ambition to become French president. She'd been riding high in the polls ahead of the next election, scheduled in two years' time.
She and her political associates insist they're innocent. They're appealing against the verdict.
In a flamboyant show of solidarity on Monday, Hungary's controversial Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, declared in a post on X in French "Je suis Marine" ("I am Marine").
Populist Geert Wilders, the leader of the Netherlands' largest political party, posted on X he was sure Le Pen would win her appeal and that she would be France's next president.
Italy's hard-line deputy prime minister, Matteo Salvini, also took to social media: "We are not intimidated... full speed ahead, my friend!".
"Those who fear the judgment of voters often seek reassurance from the courts. In Paris, they have condemned Marine Le Pen and would like to remove her from political life", he wrote.
France's courts deny they are politicised. They say their job is to serve justice.
But a suspicion that the court was biased - determined to block the political success of self-declared voice-of-the-people Le Pen - was echoed by supporters in and outside France on Monday.
From Russia, even the Kremlin chimed in. Dmitry Peskov, spokesman for President Vladimir Putin, displayed a sudden interest in democracy, declaring that "Marine Le Pen's situation constitutes a violation of democratic norms".
In a number of European countries, national legal systems appear caught in the middle in a new era of deep divisions and suspicions in society - leading to a tug of war between populist politicians and their detractors - each accusing the other of using the judiciary to protect their own political interests. France, Romania and Hungary are recent examples.
As is the United States.
Donald Trump declared the Le Pen conviction a "very important matter."
Speaking at a White House signing ceremony on Monday, Trump added: "[Le Pen] was banned for five years and she was the leading candidate."
"That sounds like this country, that sounds very much like this country."
When he faced a number of legal challenges ahead of the US presidential election in November, Trump attacked all those involved in the lawsuits against him, as well as the media whose investigative work on him he again called "illegal" last month.
But now he's back in the White House, he's been accused by critics of trying to use the courts to enact revenge on political opponents.
His legal woes clearly didn't harm his political fortunes though.
Back in France, it is possible that - whatever happens to Le Pen politically - her party will benefit and grow in popularity from all the media attention surrounding Monday's sentencing, the appeal case that will follow and a sense of defiance amongst a big chunk of voters at a French Establishment they believe is trying to stifle the will of the people - robbing them of their popular choice for president.
Source:bbc.com
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Le Pen attacks ban from running for public office as 'political decision'
April 1, 2025
Marine Le Pen has criticised a court ruling that bans her from running for public office as a "political decision" and says she will appeal.
The French far-right politician was found guilty on Monday of embezzling EU funds and she was barred from standing in an election for five years, with immediate effect.
The decision means that, unless she can get her sentence overturned before the 2027 presidential election, Le Pen will likely not be able to stand.
"I'm not going to let myself be eliminated like this," Le Pen told French TV station TF1. She will appeal against the verdict "as soon as possible" she said, with "whatever legal avenues I can."
Le Pen has been given a four-year prison sentence, of which two will be suspended. The other two can be spent with an electronic tag rather than in custody.
She has also been handed a €100,000 (£82,635) fine.
"Millions of French people are outraged" she said, claiming that judges have "implemented measures that are reserved for authoritarian regimes."
Le Pen added that she was "scandalised, indignant, but this indignation, this feeling of injustice, is an additional push to the fight that I fight for them [the voters]."
But the appeal process may take a long time.
The appeals trial would probably not happen for another year, and a verdict would come several months after that.
Preparing a presidential campaign under these circumstances could prove complicated.
The 2027 election would have been her fourth attempt, and the one offering the greatest chance of victory.
Jordan Bardella, the 29-year-old president of the National Rally (RN), said on Monday that Le Pen's sentencing was a "democratic scandal".
Bardella also called for a "popular, peaceful mobilisation".
He then posted a link to an online petition which says a "dictatorship of judges... wished to prevent French people from expressing themselves."
"Let's show those who want to circumvent democracy that the will of the people is stronger!", the petition reads.
At the start of the reading of the verdict, the judge, Bénédicte de Perthuis, said Le Pen had been at the "heart of the system" which saw the embezzlement of €2.9m worth of European funds.
Two dozen RN figures were also found guilty and the party was ordered to pay a €2m fine, with half the amount suspended.
Le Pen was accused, along with more than 20 other senior party figures, of hiring assistants who worked on her RN party affairs rather than for the European Parliament which paid them.
During the trial last year, Le Pen denied she had committed "the slightest irregularity".
Before the sentence was issued on Monday, she stormed out of the court, alongside other defendants and headed to the RN's Paris headquarters, where the party held a "crisis meeting".
At the weekend, Le Pen had told media that while she was "not nervous", the judges had "the power of life or death over the [political] movement."
Shortly before her sentencing, Le Pen received messages of support from the Kremlin, as well as European allies such as Hungary's Viktor Orban and Italy's Matteo Salvini.
But some of Le Pen's opponents have also stated they disapprove of the judge's decision.
Media reported that centrist Prime Minister François Bayrou was "troubled" by the ruling against Marine Le Pen, although he did not intend to make a public statement on the matter.
"The choice to dismiss an elected official should only belong to the people," said Jean-Luc Mélenchon of the far-left France Unbowed (LFI).
And Laurent Wauquiez, of the right-wing Republicans, said that the decision would "weigh very heavily on the functioning of our democracy".
"It's undoubtedly not the route that should have been taken."
The reading of the verdict, which started shortly after 10:00 (09:00 BST), took nearly three hours.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyq40yz70qo
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Single parents hit hardest by 'awful April' bill rises
April 1, 2025
A series of essential household bills are rising at the start of April, with warnings that single parents are among the hardest hit.
Water bills, energy prices and council tax are all going up in what has been dubbed "awful April", although the minimum wage is also increasing.
The charity Citizens Advice said the finances of millions of people on the lowest incomes were "already stretched to breaking point".
Many single parents in particular would struggle because a greater proportion of their money was taken up by essential spending, it said.
Laura Roan, a single mother of two daughters from Cardiff, said: "Without my own mum helping, there would be some days when I would not have any electric."
The 41-year-old, who works part-time in Asda, is using emergency credit on her energy meter and regularly dips into her overdraft.
"I got paid last Friday and it has all gone. I just live day to day."
She said her five-year-old daughter Prudence brought her joy and often took her mind off the financial challenges they faced.
Those challenges are increasing as a host of price rises kick in. The costs of a TV licence, car tax, and broadband and phone bills are among those going up in cost.
Among the changes:
Water bills for households are going up in England and Wales by £10 more per month on average, although it varies considerably by supplier, and by almost 10% in Scotland
The annual energy bill for a household in England, Wales and Scotland on a variable tariff and using a typical amount of gas and electricity is going up by £111 a year to £1,849
Council tax bills in England are generally going up by 4.99%, with bills in Wales rising by about 4.5% to 9.5%, and in Scotland by at least 8%
"After years of cost-of-living pressures, households across the country are about to feel the extra shock of rising essential bills," said Dame Clare Moriarty, chief executive of Citizens Advice.
"For those on the lowest incomes, these unavoidable costs are already eating away at their finances, leaving their budgets stretched beyond breaking point."
The charity said households in the lowest 10% for income were already spending around two fifths (41%) of their earnings - after housing - on water, energy, broadband and car insurance bills. That was a considerably bigger proportion than those on higher incomes.
Single-adult households, and particularly those with children, were more likely than others to be spending 20% or more of their post-housing income on these bills, leaving them more exposed to price shocks, it said.
John Paine is a single dad with three autistic children aged between five and eight. He said he had £100 left over at the end of the month when all the bills were paid.
"It goes quickly," he said, with a school trip, a picnic or a day out usually taking up a big chunk of that spending money. "It means we do not go out very much," he said.
Official figures show that a fifth of families do not have any savings, leaving them at risk.
Dozens of people have got in touch via Your Voice, Your BBC News to tell us of their experiences.
Among them is Bradley Bayton-Harvey, who lives with his partner Ange in Dudley. They have three girls, including three-year-old Darcie-Mai. Both have full-time jobs with the NHS.
"We both work nearly 200 hours a month, and it is still a stretch. We're rejiggling finances again and again," he said.
"If we can try to get any additional shifts in our rest days to get that extra income, it's frustrating because those rest days should be family time.
"You shouldn't have to turn around to your kids and say that you can't afford to go on holiday."
Any silver lining?
Benefits and the state pension are going up in a week's time. Wages have also been rising at a faster pace than the rate of inflation, and the start of April also brings an increase in the minimum wage. It means:
The minimum wage for over-21s, known officially as the National Living Wage, has now risen by 6.7%, from £11.44 to £12.21 an hour. For someone working full time, or a 37.5-hour week, that equates to £23,873.60 a year, up from £22,368.06
For 18 to 20-year-olds, the minimum wage has gone up from £8.60 to £10 an hour. This means someone on a 37.5-hour week would earn £19,552 a year, up from £16,815. However only a minority of people in this age group do work full time
Apprentices are now being paid £7.55 an hour, up from £6.40. That means their annual wage is going up to £14,762 from £12,513
In addition, experts say there are ways to cut costs to keep household bills as low as possible.
"Our research shows that switching providers if you're out of contract can slash broadband, pay TV and mobile bills by up to £235," said Emily Seymour, from the consumer group Which?.
"It's also worth checking if you're eligible for any council tax reductions or exemptions and could save money by installing a water meter."
Some of the UK's biggest banks have also said they would pro-actively contact customers they believed were struggling financially to offer assistance.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly1vwd57y2o
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University student targeted by Trump leaves the US
April 1, 2025
A Cornell University graduate student who had his US visa revoked due to protest activities against Israel has chosen to leave the US rather than be deported.
Momodou Taal, who is a joint citizen of the UK and The Gambia, had his student visa revoked due to his on-campus protest activities last year as the Israel-Gaza war raged.
Mr Taal previously sued to block his deportation, but on Monday posted on X that he had chosen to leave the country "free and with my head held high". It comes after a judge denied his request to delay his deportation.
The Trump administration is cracking down on international students who have been active in protests against Israel on university campuses.
Mr Taal is at least the second international student to opt to leave the US after being targeted for removal by the US Department of Homeland Security. The Trump administration identifies these cases as "self-deportations".
"Given what we have seen across the United States, I have lost faith that a favourable ruling from the courts would guarantee my personal safety and ability to express my beliefs," Mr Taal posted on X on Monday.
"I have lost faith I could walk the streets without being abducted. Weighing up these options. I took the decision to leave on my own terms."
Mr Taal was suspended twice by Cornell, an Ivy League school in upstate New York, due to protest activities. On the day of the Hamas attack against Israel in 2023, he posted: "Glory to the Resistance."
"We are in solidarity with the armed resistance in Palestine from the river to the sea," he later told a crowd of protesters, according to The Cornell Daily Sun newspaper.
At least 300 university students had their student visas revoked due to involvement in pro-Palestinian protests, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week.
Trump officials said the Immigration and Nationality Act allows the State Department to deport non-citizens who are "adversarial to the foreign policy and national security interests" of the US.
The arrests are a part of Trump's pledge to combat what the administration has classified as antisemitism, which was written into an executive order in January.
Critics have decried the deportations as a violation of free speech.
Another student who chose to flee the US, Indian scholar Ranjani Srinivasan, told CNN that she wants to clear her name.
"I'm not a terrorist sympathizer," she told CNN, adding: "I'm literally just a random student."
She added that she hopes to re-enroll at Columbia University, which was the epicentre of student protests last year, and finish her PhD programme.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c934y9kv07eo
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Historic Hamza Bey Mosque in Thessaloniki is Being Restored
By Tasos Kokkinidis
March 31, 2025
The impressive Hamza Bey Mosque, otherwise known as the Alcazar, will be ready to be handed over to the city of Thessaloniki in the first half of 2026, Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said after a visit and inspection of the restoration work being carried out on the monument on Monday.
Mendoni was briefed on the complex and demanding project, given that the monument has been subjected to significant wear and tear and changes through interventions at various periods in time.
After inspecting the project, Mendoni stated: “This demonstrates the importance we attach to the monuments and the centuries-old history of Thessaloniki, which are gradually being returned to the citizens, repaired and enhanced, offering a completely different image of the city.”
The Hamza Bey Mosque, in the city center, at the intersection of Egnatia and Venizelou streets, in the immediate vicinity of the northern entrance of the Metropolitan Railway station, is the oldest Islamic house of prayer in Thessaloniki.
History of the Hamza Bey Mosque in Thessaloniki
It was built in 1467 by the daughter of the military commander Hamza Bey. It was one of the first mosques constructed after the Ottoman conquest of Thessaloniki in 1430, making it an important symbol of the city’s transformation.
The mosque was rebuilt and expanded in 1620, incorporating a large central dome and an arcade with smaller domes, a typical feature of Ottoman religious architecture. During the 20th century, after Thessaloniki became part of Greece in 1912, the mosque was no longer used for religious purposes.
It was converted into a cinema called the Alcazar, which is how many locals came to know it.
Over the years, it suffered from neglect, partial demolitions, and modifications that altered its original form.
The Mosque has been protected under archaeological law as a historical and archaeological monument since 1926.
“The restoration of the Alcazar is progressing according to schedule. Its restoration will give the city another emblematic monument. Our goal is to complete the project and return the monument to the city within the first half of 2026,” Mendoni added.
According to the announcement of the Ministry of Culture, the project is progressing well and rapidly, both to the interior and exterior of the monument, including work to protect its structural integrity and to preserve its interior decorative elements.
Several Mosques stand in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, under Ottoman rule from 1430 to 1912, retains several important Ottoman-era buildings, despite many being repurposed or demolished over time.
Yeni Mosque, built for the city’s Donmeh (Jewish converts to Islam) in 1902, is one of the last Ottoman mosques constructed in Thessaloniki. Last year, hundreds of faithful gathered at the Yeni Mosque for the Eid Muslim prayers after its opening for the first time in more than 100 years in Greece.
Other Mosques in Thessaloniki include the Alaca Imaret Mosque (15th century), commissioned by İshak Paşa, which also served as a soup kitchen (imaret). And the small mosque, Hortacı Süleyman Efendi Mosque (16th century) located in the Ladadika district of the Greek city.
Source:greekreporter.com
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https://greekreporter.com/2025/03/31/historic-hamza-bey-mosque-thessaloniki-restored/
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North America
Ohio group gathers personal letters to connect with Muslims in prison for Eid
Reina Coulibaly
March 31, 2025
(RNS) — Muslims in North America are celebrating Eid al-Adha, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Around the world, people celebrate by donning their best attire, gathering for prayers and exchanging gifts.
For incarcerated Muslims, though, the holiday looks drastically different. While some can celebrate with other Muslims in their facility, many observe the holiday in isolation.
Earlier this month, Eid Letters to Incarcerated Muslims, an Ohio grassroots project that for the past five years has facilitated an annual Eid al-Adha letter-writing campaign for incarcerated Muslims in the state, hosted a webinar about its efforts.
The project aims to connect with incarcerated Muslims and sees advocacy for prison abolishment as an important part of practicing the Islamic faith, according to the group. To volunteers and leaders, letter writing is a form of advocacy work foundational to their spiritual and political commitments.
One of ELIM’s core organizers, Mariam Khan, sees the group’s work as a form of worship that follows in the example of the Prophet Muhammad.
“When I read about the Sunnah (the Prophet Muhammad’s recorded practices) and life of the Prophet, I see him as a community organizer, someone giving the clothes off his back and the money in his pocket to the most needy,” Khan said. “I want to create an Islamic practice that centers around action, around material change through our faith. That extends to our incarcerated brothers and sisters.”
This year, ELIM volunteers gathered nearly 350 letters through community partnerships and writing events, like the annual webinar. The letters are being distributed to 230 men in two Ohio facilities: Lebanon Correctional Institution and the Ohio State Penitentiary. The recipients were identified through a “fasting roll call,” or a list of people who requested fasting accommodations provided to ELIM by facilities’ chaplains and other intermediaries.
ELIM is one of several faith-based groups across the country reaching those inside prisons through letter writing and resource distribution. Volunteer-run groups like the Philadelphia Muslim Freedom Fund, Sacramento Letters to Incarcerated Muslims and nonprofits like Believers Bail Out share a similar mission, also ultimately seeking prison abolishment. They run independently and focus on their respective locales.
Zumana Noor, a core leader for the Philadelphia Muslim Freedom Fund, said the group’s work is rooted in solidarity, not charity.
“It’s our duty as Muslims to support our brothers and sisters in need, including those behind bars,” Noor said. “That’s really the center of what we do. It’s about compassion, about giving back.”
Noor also noted the often intangible impact of such outreach.
“When the system sees that someone is being cared for, that there are people checking in and mailing letters, they’re less likely to pull stuff with them,” Noor said. “They know there are people on the outside who will speak up.”
Kenza Kamal, one of ELIM’s founding members, emphasized that incarcerated Muslims have much to offer.
“The folks inside are highly learned,” Kamal said. “They study and know things that many of us on the outside have not had the focus, discipline or the pressure to learn.”
For ELIM organizers, letter writing is a way to connect with incarcerated people and send a message of hope for the future, with ending incarceration being the ultimate goal.
“Abolition isn’t separate from Islam,” said Ridha Nazir, a newer ELIM organizer. “It teaches us to stand with the oppressed and to never lose sight of justice and to act with mercy. When we write these letters for incarcerated Muslims, we’re doing more than just sending words on a page. We’re extending solidarity, we’re extending care, we’re extending the spiritual connection.”
Moreover, Nazir said, the prison system “is designed to isolate, and disappear people,” to which Islam stands in contrast.
“For us, letter writing is an act of worship,” Nazir said.
However, the Ohio campaign has at least one new obstacle. A new policy from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, effective Feb. 1, mandates all incoming letters be copied or scanned into an electronic format for delivery and the originals destroyed after 30 days. Inmates can no longer receive original — often handwritten — letters from ELIM.
Fardowsa Dahir, another ELIM organizer, said new restrictions seem to be implemented every year in the state. And, much communication getting into the facilities relies on one person, like an amenable imam or chaplain, Khan added.
“When that person stops communicating with us, that’s the end of our lifeline to administer and organize this project,” Khan said.
The new mail policy also affects the emotional weight of the letters, Nazir said, as the scanning process strips away some of the personal and spiritual intimacy that handwritten letters offer.
“We always want to work in the way of the Prophet (Muhammad), and we’re following the example he set,” Nazir said. “He never turned his back on those who are isolated or imprisoned or struggling. And so, we remember the Quranic verses that tell us to speak truth, to show up and to not be complicit to injustice through silence.”
Source:religionnews.com
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https://religionnews.com/2025/03/31/ohio-group-gathers-personal-letters-to-connect-with-muslims-in-prison-for-eid/
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US deports more alleged gang members to El Salvador
April 1, 2025
The Trump administration has deported 17 more alleged gang members to El Salvador, the US state department has said, despite legal battles over removing people to the Central American country's supermax prison.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the group included members of the Tren de Aragua and MS-13 gangs.
Salvadoran government officials told the BBC they included a mix of Venezuelans and Salvadorans.
Earlier this month a court ordered a halt to deportations carried out under the Alien Enemies Act, a 1798 law previously used only in wartime. However, US media, citing administration sources, reported that the recent deportations were made under general immigration laws.
In a statement, Rubio said the group included "murderers and rapists", but did not provide names or details of the alleged crimes or of any convictions.
In a post on X, El Salvador President Nayib Bukele shared a dramatically edited video showing shackled men being loaded off a plane and their heads being shaved before they were put into prison cells.
"All individuals are confirmed murderers and high-profile offenders, including six child rapists," he wrote. "This operation is another step in the fight against terrorism and organized crime."
President Trump reposted the message, blamed the administration of his predecessor Joe Biden for allowing the deportees into the US and thanked Bukele for "giving them such a wonderful place to live".
El Salvador has agreed to take in deportees in exchange for $6m (£4.6m).
Family members of some of those who were previously sent to the maximum security prison have denied they have any gang ties.
After Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act to remove more than 100 Venezuelans from the US earlier this month, groups including the American Civil Liberties Union filed a legal challenge alleging the administration had illegally denied the immigrants due process.
In a hearing on 15 March, James Boasberg, the top federal judge in Washington DC, imposed a temporary restraining order on the use of the law and ordered deportation flights that were in the air to be turned around.
But the deportations proceeded. The next hearing in the case will be held on Thursday.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c33zve3254no
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Markets mixed as investors brace for Trump tariffs
April 1, 2025
Shares in the US have bounced back, despite tariff fears hitting stocks in Asia and Europe after US President Donald Trump suggested that he was planning import taxes that could hit "all countries".
Trump's comments came as he prepares to unveil a massive slate of import taxes on Wednesday, in what he has called America's "Liberation Day".
These will come on top of Trump's recent import taxes on aluminium, steel and cars, along with increased levies on all goods from China.
The tougher stance from Trump has increased nervousness about a trade war hitting the global economy.
Trump has offered conflicting signals about the scope of the expected tariffs, which have helped drive steep declines in the US stock market over the last month.
Last week, he had raised the possibility that many countries could receive "breaks". But over the weekend, he appeared to be leaning toward a more wide-ranging plan.
"You'd start with all countries," Trump told reporters on Air Force One on Sunday. "Essentially all of the countries that we're talking about."
The UK has said it expects to be affected by US tariffs and is not ruling out retaliating.
The prime minister's official spokesman has said talks on an economic deal between the two countries have been "constructive", but are likely to last beyond Wednesday.
Other jurisdictions, such as the European Union and Canada, have already said that they are preparing a range of retaliatory trade measures.
Concerns about the impact of the measures have unsettled markets and reignited fears of a recession in the US.
In the US, the S&P 500 share index of the largest firms has fallen almost 10% since mid-February, making March the worst month for the index in years.
The Nasdaq is down more than 10%, its worst quarter since 2022.
With significant uncertainty remaining about the 2 April announcement, shares in the US opened lower but ultimately held their ground on Monday.
The Dow closed up 1%, while the S&P ended up 0.5% and the Nasdaq slipped just 0.1%.
Earlier on Monday, Japan's Nikkei 225 benchmark share index closed more than 4% lower, while the Kospi in South Korea ended down 3%.
In the UK, the FTSE 100 index fell nearly 0.9%, while Germany's Dax index closed down nearly 1.3% and France's Cac 40 fell roughly 1.6%.
Gold, which is often seen as a safer investment when the economic backdrop is unstable, rose to another record high, hitting $3,128.06 an ounce.
Shanti Kelemen, chief investment officer at M&G Wealth, told the BBC there could be "quite a lot of uncertainty" for a while given that previous tariff announcements have seen a lot of changes subsequently.
Japan, which is a big player in exports, is among those countries most at risk from the changes, Ms Keleman said.
"They have a lot of automakers and also a very big presence in the semiconductor market, something that hasn't really been targeted yet but that could change," she noted.
3 million US jobs?
Trump sees tariffs - which are taxes imports - as a bargaining chip to get better trade terms, while also raising money and protecting the American economy from unfair competition.
A White House fact sheet published last week also suggested that a 10% tariff on every import could create nearly three million US jobs.
Trump trade adviser Peter Navarro has estimated that all the planned tariffs could raise $600bn annually, about a fifth of the value of total goods imports into the US.
Many firms have said they expect the cost of the new tax to be passed onto customers in the form of higher prices.
But that could lead to lower sales and fuel inflation in the US, a problem Trump had pledged on the campaign to tackle.
Conversely, if companies decide to absorb the cost, it will hit their profits.
Will Butler-Adams is chief executive of Brompton Bicycle, which makes folding bikes and relies on the US for about 10% of its sales.
Brompton's products are not facing additional taxes yet.
But Mr Butler-Adams said tariffs would make his bikes less competitive and force him to re-think his presence in the US.
"We won't continue to invest in the same way that we are now," he said. "We may even shrink; in the extreme, we might pull out."
Mr Butler-Adams said it had been hard to figure out the impact of tariffs that have already gone into effect, which require detailed accounting of how much steel in each item comes from outside the US.
"The reality is we don't [know] actually and the people who are on the borders importing goods into the US don't actually entirely understand how some of these tariffs might be put in," Mr Butler-Adams said.
TikTok sale
Separately, Trump said a deal with TikTok's Chinese owner ByteDance to sell the app would be agreed before a deadline on Saturday.
He set the 5 April deadline in January for the short video platform to find a non-Chinese buyer or face a ban in the US on national security grounds.
It had been due to take effect that month to comply with a law passed under the Biden administration.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czjny8kee1zo
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Le Pen conviction ‘a very big deal’ – Trump
1 Apr, 2025
US President Donald Trump has said the criminal prosecution of French opposition leader Marine Le Pen reminds him of his own legal battles under the administration of former President Joe Biden.
On Monday, Le Pen, the former leader of the conservative National Rally (RN) party, was sentenced to four years in prison, two of which will be suspended, and was barred from holding public office for five years. The embezzlement conviction effectively bars her from the 2027 presidential race.
Asked by reporters in the Oval Office about the verdict, Trump replied, “That’s a very big deal.”
“I know all about it, and a lot of people thought she wasn’t going to be convicted of anything,” he said.
“But she was banned [from] running for five years, and she’s the leading candidate. That sounds very much like this country.”
Trump has often claimed that the court cases and investigations into his activities were part of a politically motivated “witch hunt” led by the Biden administration and the Democrats.
US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce has said the prosecution of Le Pen is “particularly concerning, given the aggressive and corrupt lawfare waged against President Trump here in the United States.”
According to the prosecutors, Le Pen siphoned off EU funds intended for her staff’s work in the European Parliament to fund the activities of her party in France. She denied any wrongdoing and called the verdict “a fatal day for our democracy.”
Le Pen’s party holds the highest number of seats in the National Assembly. According to an Ifop poll published in Le Journal du Dimanche on Sunday, 34-37% of those surveyed said they plan to vote for Le Pen in 2027 – over 10 points more than her nearest rival, former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe. Le Pen ran for president three times, finishing second in 2017 and 2022.
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/615066-trump-comments-le-pen/
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Gov. Abbott directs Texas Rangers to investigate Plano Islamic center's proposed development
March 31, 2025
PLANO, Texas - A proposed Muslim-centric housing development in Collin County referred to as EPIC City is under scrutiny from some of the state's biggest leaders.
On Monday, Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Rangers to open a criminal investigation into the East Plano Islamic Center.
The announcement comes after Abbott recently posted on social media that EPIC’s proposed 402-acre community near Josephine, Texas, had "serious legal issues."
Hundreds of people in Collin County came to the Collin County Commissioner's Court meeting to weigh in on the proposal.
What is EPIC City?
EPIC City is a planned development near Josephine, Texas, about 40 miles northeast of Dallas.
According to the development’s website, it will feature a new mosque, single- and multifamily homes, a community college, schools, businesses, a school and parks.
The land was purchased by Community Capital Partners, a for-profit entity.
In a promotional video, CCP says the intent is to put Islam at the forefront of the project.
EPIC City has drawn the attention of Governor Greg Abbott, Attorney General Ken Paxton and other Texas leaders.
The governor directed the Texas Rangers to investigate the East Plano Islamic Center for potential criminal activities on Monday, but did not go into detail about any specific violations they plan to look into.
This isn’t the first time the development and EPIC have been in the crosshairs of lawmakers. Last week, the Governor announced a dozen state agencies are investigating conduct by EPIC and other affiliated entities.
Last month, Abbott posted on social media that "Sharia law is not allowed in Texas."
Sharia refers to the laws and guiding principles for the daily lives of Muslim people based on the religion’s holy book, the Quran, and the teachings of the prophet Muhammed.
Republican Rep. Jeff Leach called on Paxton to investigate the development over fears that EPIC City might impose some form of Sharia law on the community.
Leach cited a 2017 Texas law that prohibits the enforcement of legal codes that conflict with the Constitution.
"Thank you [Ken Paxton], [Greg Abbott] for joining me and [Candy Noble] and [Jared Patterson] (and many others) and for taking action to protect the fundamental rights of all Texans!," Leach said.
In Abbott’s post he also expressed concern that EPIC City would become a "no-go zone" or an area that wouldn’t allow non-Muslims to enter.
EPIC City’s website calls the development a "space where everyone feels welcome, safe and empowered to grow."
"EPIC City has been meticulously designed to be more than just a residential area," the website states. "It is a thriving ecosystem that cultivates growth, fosters meaningful connections, and ensures prosperity for all who call EPIC City home."
The Texas state securities board, workforce commission, funeral service commission, and attorney general also have open investigations.
What they're saying:
"A dozen state agencies are investigating it, the attorney general will look into it, and legislators are considering laws to restrict it, as well as laws to prevent foreign adversaries from buying land in Texas," Abbott said.
Also on Tuesday, Attorney General Ken Paxton said his office would investigate Community Capital Partners, LP for potential violations of Texas Consumer Protection Laws.
"Under my watch, there will be zero tolerance for any person or entity that breaks Texas law," Paxton said. "My office has an open and ongoing investigation into EPIC City, which has raised a number of concerns, and this CID will help ensure that any potential violation of state law is uncovered."
"Here in Texas, we uphold the rule of law," Abbott said. "The group behind the proposed East Plano Islamic Center compound in Collin County is knowingly breaking state law in many ways, including by operating a funeral home without a license. This is a crime, and it will not be tolerated. Texas will continue to defend our communities from any threats posed by EPIC City."
The funeral commission’s letter said it would make a criminal referral to the Collin County District Attorney’s Office.
Collin County Commission meeting
Hundreds of people showed up to hear a discussion about EPIC City on Monday. Several raised concerns about a community geared to a particular religious group.
County staff explained that the county has limited powers compared to a city and does not have zoning powers.
There was no decision to be made by the Collin County Commissioners on Monday.
Community Capital Partners has not yet submitted an application for the development.
What they're saying:
"I have very grave concerns about the EPIC City project. First of all, under the Civil Rights Act of 1866 all citizens of the United States have the same right to purchase, lease, sell, hold and convey real estate. Under the Civil Rights Act of 1968, known as the Fair Housing Act, Congress passed a law prohibiting discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin or religion," said real estate agent Brandon Burder.
"This is not about one faith versus another. This is about rejecting segregation in any form. No group should ever have the power to claim an entire neighborhood for themselves," said resident Susan Allen.
"Governor Abbott and Attorney General [Ken] Paxton's actions are blatant misuses of power against communities striving for a better life," said Darrell Evans.
Source:fox4news.com
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https://www.fox4news.com/news/texas-rangers-abbott-epic
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Africa
Anambra Muslim leaders preach peace, endorse Soludo’s re-election bid
March 31, 2025
By Joe Chukindi
Muslim leaders in Onitsha, Anambra State have used the opportunity of the Eid-el-Fitr celebration to preach peace and mutual co-existence among Nigerians of all faith.
The Kabiyesi of Yoruba in Onitsha, Alhaji Abraham Zubairu, made the call while addressing some members of the Muslim community at the Eid praying ground in Onitsha on Monday.
Zubairu who is also the Chairman, Anambra State Muslim Council advised his Muslim brothers to work for the re-election of the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo in the November 8, 2025 governorship election.
He stated that the Muslim community since the emergence of Soludo as the governor of Anambra State, has witnessed many qualities of a dynamic leader, which one of them is “peaceful co-existence” between them and their host community as well as the government.
He said: “For all Muslim faithful, we thank God for being alive to witness this year’s sallah, and we pray that this celebration will not be the end. We shall have cause to continue to celebrate.”
“We use the opportunity of the Eid-el-Fitr celebration to call for mutual co-existence. People should do well to tolerate people of other religions as we are all one.
“The governor of Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has done well in ensuring our safety in Anambra State. Since he came on board he has been working tirelessly to develop the state.
“We pray that God will protect the governor and continue to give him more wisdom as he pilots the affairs of the state. We also pray for Ndi Anambra for continue prosperity and peaceful coexistence in the state.
“There have been massive road constructions and other infrastructural developments in the state since Prof. Chukwuma Soludo took over as governor, therefore the Muslim community would re-elect the governor to continue his good works in the state, I pray for Anambra State.
Earlier, the Chief Imam of Yoruba Central Mosque Onitsha, Alhaji Shuaibu Eletu, praised the relationship between the Moslem Community with the State government, describing Soludo as a leader sent by God to Anambra people.
“We are happy over the cordial and harmonious relationship that has existed between the state government and the Muslim community in the state.
“Since we have been living in this state, our leaders have never entered the Government House, but Soludo always invite all the Moslems from different parts of the state in Nnewi zone, Awka zone and Onitsha zone to the government house during sallah and gave them a warm reception,” he added.
Source:dailypost.ng
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https://dailypost.ng/2025/03/31/anambra-muslim-leaders-preach-peace-endorse-soludos-re-election-bid/
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State of emergency: We will emerge stronger – Fubara to Rivers peopleMarch 31, 2025By
March 31, 2025
Suspended Rivers State Governor, SiminalayiFubara, has reassured residents that the ongoing political crisis will ultimately make them stronger, not weaker.
He made this remark while hosting Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic groups, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, at his private residence in Port Harcourt as part of the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
Speaking to the delegation, Fubara encouraged them and his supporters to remain steadfast and trust in God’s plan, saying, “This season represents love, sharing, and sacrifice. You have come to share in our pain and have made great sacrifices through your prayers.
“As Christians, we believe everything happens for a purpose, and I strongly believe this situation is guiding us toward a greater one.”
Fubara admitted the crisis may be disheartening but suggested it could be guided by higher forces.
According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to justice and equality, emphasizing his vision for a society free from oppression.
He assured the Muslims that their pending requests would be addressed after the political situation stabilizes.
Urging patience and perseverance, he drew a biblical analogy saying, “If God could be patient with Noah, allowing even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains essential in our struggle.”
He warned against those inciting violence through provocative acts, urging his supporters and Rivers people to reject elements seeking to destabilize the state.
“Their goal is to create problems and deny people their livelihoods.
“We will not allow that. We will continue to operate peacefully and respect constituted authority to ensure Rivers remains a model for others in Nigeria.”
Representing the Muslim Ummah, Alhaji Nasir AwhelebeUhor expressed unwavering support for Governor SiminalayiFubara, assuring him of their prayers and solidarity amid the ongoing political crisis.
Uhor highlighted that the majority of Muslims in Rivers State stand with Fubara because of his commitment to inclusive governance.
Unlike the previous administration, which declared Rivers a 100% Christian state, he praised Fubara for acknowledging the state’s Christian majority while fostering religious inclusivity.
He encouraged the governor to remain resolute, emphasizing that challenges like these are consistent with Islamic teachings, where believers are tested through wealth, power and authority.
He further urged President Bola Tinubu to reassess the emergency rule in Rivers State and reinstate Fubara’s full authority, arguing that the governor has continued to lead effectively despite the political turmoil.
Source:dailypost.ng
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https://dailypost.ng/2025/03/31/state-of-emergency-we-will-emerge-stronger-fubara-to-rivers-people/
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2025 Hajj: Nigeria Faces Accommodation Crisis In Makkah
March 31, 2025
By Ikenna Ngere
Nigeria is grappling with accommodation difficulties in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, ahead of the 2025 Hajj due to the failure to enter housing details for pilgrims under the state quota into the Saudi electronic Nusuk platform.
Reports from The Nation indicate that officials from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards (SMPWB) are now scrambling to secure alternative accommodations, having lost premium reservations to other countries.
Many of these states, particularly from the Northwest, Northeast, North-central, and South, have been displaced from the high-quality hotels they had occupied for years.
Securing accommodation is a prerequisite for obtaining a Hajj visa via the Nusuk platform.
According to a source at the Nigerian Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the situation could have resulted in Nigerian pilgrims missing this year’s Hajj, but Saudi authorities extended the accommodation deadline by ten days.
“Luckily, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had extended the accommodation deadline from March 25 to April 4,” a Hajj official in Saudi Arabia stated.
To meet the new deadline, Nigerian officials must urgently secure fresh accommodations and upload the details onto the platform.
Failure to do so means pilgrims from affected states will be unable to obtain visas and, consequently, miss the 2025 Hajj.
Allegations of Mismanagement
Many stakeholders are blaming NAHCON for the accommodation crisis. Findings reveal that while NAHCON had initially advertised and shortlisted accommodation providers, the commission failed to make the required advance payments to secure these reservations.
This allowed other countries to take over the previously booked accommodations.
A NAHCON staff member disclosed that states were unaware they had lost their accommodations until close to the March 25 deadline. “The NAHCON ICT team only realized late that most of the booked houses were no longer available, leading to this last-minute scramble,” the staffer explained.
As a result, states are now securing whatever accommodations remain, regardless of location, service quality, or price.
“States pilgrim boards are now scavenging for houses from NAHCON’s non-accredited service providers just to meet up with the new deadline. Nobody is talking about quality or standard anymore. The key word now is availability,” a NAHCON official remarked.
It has also emerged that NAHCON introduced a new list of housing providers who were not previously accredited.
The commission set a uniform benchmark of SR3,000 per pilgrim bed space, a move some insiders criticize as morally questionable since accommodation prices typically vary based on proximity to the Holy Mosque and service quality.
With time running out, some states have resorted to booking accommodations that cost far less than SR3,000, fearing that failing to secure any lodging would mean their pilgrims cannot participate in the Hajj.
“I don’t have any option now. I just need houses for my pilgrims. Without securing a hotel for them, my pilgrims won’t come to the 2025 Hajj. That is our dilemma now. Nobody is talking about quality. Our concern is availability,” a state pilgrims’ board official from the Southwest lamented.
Some NAHCON officials have also been accused of exploiting the situation, using the crisis as an opportunity to profit from desperate state officials.
“Accommodation agents are having a field day, capitalizing on the desperation of Nigerian state officials. Some well-connected NAHCON staff are also using this as a conduit to siphon funds,” an insider alleged.
Possible Backlash from Pilgrims
There are growing concerns that Nigerian pilgrims may protest the accommodation arrangements once they arrive in Makkah, given the lower standards of lodging being secured at the last minute.
“The Makkah accommodations are central to Hajj because pilgrims spend more than 80 percent of their days there,” a commission official warned.
Allegations have also surfaced that NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, used all available funds to pay two Masha’ir service providers instead of securing accommodations.
Reports claim he made full payments to MashariqAldhahabiah for 35,000 pilgrims and Ekram Aldyf for 25,000 pilgrims, despite Nigeria only booking 52,000 pilgrims for Masha’ir services.
Observers are questioning why NAHCON paid for 60,000 pilgrims when the official quota is lower.
Meanwhile, the chairman is currently in Saudi Arabia with about 50 staff members, though critics claim they have no defined roles in resolving the crisis.
Some insiders allege that certain staff members are manipulating the situation for personal gain. “It is a kind of a rat race. Everyone is scavenging for a carcass to feast on,” an official alleged.
NAHCON’s Response
In a statement on Sunday, Professor Usman dismissed concerns of any impending crisis and assured that preparations for a smooth 2025 Hajj are in place.
He called for cooperation from all stakeholders, emphasizing that he has been engaging with key players, including tour operators, Saudi service providers, state pilgrims’ boards, and health officials, to ensure seamless operations.
Source:naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/31/2025-hajj-nigeria-faces-accommodation-crisis-in-makkah/
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Egyptian inmates’ ordeal in Sudan prisons
April 01, 2025
CAIRO: Prisoners held by the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan spoke on Monday of their ordeal in paramilitary detention centers.
Arrested two months after the country’s civil war began in April 2023, Egyptian traders suspected of spying for the regular army were stripped, tortured and starved, and watched as other inmates died from cholera and malaria.
“You couldn’t go two weeks without falling sick,” said Emad Mouawad, 44, who was held at the notorious Soba prison in southern Khartoum after paramilitary forces raided his home in the city.
At night, swarms of insects crawled over the prisoners. “There was nothing that made you feel human,” he said.
Ahmed Aziz, who was detained with Mouawad, said: “They would bring us hot water mixed with wheat flour. Just sticky, tasteless paste.” Water was either polluted from a well or muddy from the Nile. “If you were sick, you just waited for death,” Aziz said.
Another trader, Mohamed Shaaban, 43, said: “They stripped us naked as the day we were born. Then they beat us, insulted and degraded us.”
Back home in Egypt, the former prisoners are struggling to recover physically and mentally. “We have to try to turn the page and move on,” Shaaban said. “We have to try and forget.”
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2595525/middle-east
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Two killed in attack on Sudan refugee camp: medical source
April 01, 2025
KHARTOUM: At least two people were killed in an attack on a refugee camp in Sudan’s North Darfur state, a medical source told AFP late Monday, blaming the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The source at the Saudi hospital in the state capital, El-Fasher, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the attack on the Abu Shouk refugee camp also left seven wounded.
A volunteer aid group in El-Fasher had earlier reported “intense bombardments” at the camp and explosive drones flying over the city.
The RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has been battling the military, led by Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, since April 2023.
The war has created what the United Nations describes as the world’s worst hunger and displacement crises. More than 12 million people have been uprooted, tens of thousands killed, and a UN-backed assessment declared famine in parts of the country.
While the military has reclaimed the capital Khartoum in recent days, Africa’s third-largest country remains essentially divided in two.
The army holds sway in the east and north, while the RSF controls most of the vast Darfur region in the west and parts of the south.
El-Fasher is the only regional state capital the RSF has not conquered, despite besieging the city for months.
On Monday night, the paramilitaries announced they had killed scores of soldiers and driven the army out of the Khor Al-Daleb region of South Kordofan state, near areas controlled by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, which has entered into an alliance with the RSF.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2595514/middle-east
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Olawepo-Hashim Salutes Muslim Faithful At Eid-el-Fitri
April 01, 2025
Former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, commended the Muslim faithful on their devotion, perseverance and commitment to the month-long supplication to God.
He stated this while congratulating Nigeria’s Muslim faithful as the country marks the end of Ramadan.
The Eid Mubarak marks the end of the annual fast by Muslims all over the world to end the month-long supplication to God for forgiveness and blessings.
In a message on his Facebook page, Olawepo-Hashim remarked that “as we mark the completion of Ramadan and celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, “I join millions of Nigerians and the global community in congratulating you on this joyous occasion.”
According to him, “Ramadan has been a period of spiritual rejuvenation, self-reflection, and sacrifice.
“Your devotion, perseverance, and commitment to your faith are a testament to the values that bind us together as a people.”
The frontline politician added that “as we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr let us remember the lessons of Ramadan: compassion, forgiveness, and the pursuit of peace.
“May these values continue to guide us as we strive to build a more just and equitable society.”
Olawepo-Hashim therefore urged “all Muslim faithful and wishes them a joyous Eid-el-Fitr celebration filled with love, laughter, and time with family and friends.”
Source:leadership.ng
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https://leadership.ng/olawepo-hashim-salutes-muslim-faithful-at-eid-el-fitri/
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Rivers: Fubara vows stronger comeback, urges peace
1st April 2025
Dennis Naku
The suspended Governor of Rivers State, SiminalayiFubara, has assured residents that the ongoing political crisis in the state will ultimately strengthen the people rather than weaken them.
While encouraging his supporters to remain steadfast, Fubara expressed the optimism that “we will emerge stronger.”
According to a statement on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the suspended governor spoke when he received Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic-based groups, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, who paid him a Sallah visit at his private residence in Port Harcourt.
Addressing the delegation, Fubara urged them and his supporters to trust in God’s process, saying: “This season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice. You have come to share in our pain and have made a great sacrifice through your prayers.
“As Christians, we believe that everything happens for a purpose, and I strongly believe that this situation is leading us toward a greater purpose.”
He acknowledged that the current political crisis in the state might leave many feeling depressed, but emphasised that supernatural forces may be at play beyond human understanding.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to justice and equality, stressing that his administration envisioned a society where no one is oppressed.
He stated, “We believe in egalitarianism, and if our beliefs bring us some pain, so be it. The most important thing is that we stand on the side of truth and righteousness.”
The suspended governor regretted that he was unable to formally reach out to the Muslim Ummah during their celebrations but promised that the relationship between religious groups and the government would be strengthened once the current uncertainties are resolved.
He also assured the leaders that their pending requests would be addressed after the end of the political crisis.
Urging patience and perseverance, Fubara drew an analogy from religious history, saying, “If God could be patient with Noah to allow even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains an essential virtue in our struggle.”
He, however, urged his supporters not to play into the hands of those who want to engineer violence in the state by fanning provocative acts.
“Their goal is to create problems and deny people their means of livelihood. We will not allow that. We will continue to operate peacefully and respect constituted authority to ensure that our state remains a model for others in Nigeria,” he stressed.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the Muslim Ummah, Alhaji Nasir AwhelebeUhor declared their solidarity for the suspended governor, assuring him of their prayers and support as he navigates the state’s current political challenges.
Uhor stated that the majority of Muslims in Rivers State stood with Governor Fubara due to his inclusive approach to governance and his recognition of the Islamic faith.
According to the Muslim leader, unlike the previous administration that declared Rivers a hundred per cent Christian state, Fubara, upon assuming office, acknowledged the state as Christian-majority while allowing room for inclusiveness.
Encouraging the governor to remain steadfast, Uhor reminded him of the Islamic belief that Allah rewards patience.
He said the present challenges aligned with the teachings of Islam, where the Creator tests His people through wealth, power, and authority.
However, the Muslim leader called on President Bola Tinubu to review the emergency rule in Rivers State and restore Governor Fubara’s full authority, emphasising that the governor had been performing effectively despite the crisis.
During the visit, prayers were offered for Fubara, his family, Rivers State, and Nigeria as a whole.
CSOs to sue administrator
Meanwhile, Transition Monitoring Group and Civil Society Organisations in Rivers State said they have concluded arrangements to drag the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd,) to court over what they term unlawful spending of the state’s funds.
The two groups also called on the Sole Administrator to immediately discontinue spending the state’s funds without an approved budget.
The TMG and the CSO disclosed this at a joint news briefing in Port Harcourt on Monday, insisting that Ibas had no legal backing to temper with the state’s funds.
Speaking on their behalf, the Coordinator of TMG in Rivers State, Nathaniel Akporuvweku, called for immediate action against the constitutional breach in the declaration of a state of emergency in the oil-rich state.
“Since the declaration of the state of emergency, there has been widespread condemnation from Nigerians across various sectors, including civil society groups, institutions, and the Nigerian Bar Association.
“In light of these developments, the appointment of Vice Admiral lbok Ete lbas (retd.) as the sole administrator of Rivers State raises further concerns.
“We urge the Sole Administrator to adopt a neutral and apolitical approach in performing his duties to avoid exacerbating tensions and undermining the peace process in both Rivers State and the broader federation.”
Akporuvweku argued that the Sole Administrator does not have any constitutional backing to spend any money from the state fund, pointing out that the body would have no option but to seek redress in court over his illegal actions.
“We condemned the unauthorised spending of Rivers money. We are saying no, that the sole administrator cannot continue to spend money Rivers unauthorised.
“Approaching the court is a legal mechanism when issues like this happen. It is part of it. We can go to court to stop him from this part of his taking that is against the constitution. That is a remedy,” he said.
Also, an activist and leader of the “Conscience of the Ogoni People’, Gani Topba, has threatened a defamation suit against the immediate past Head of the Rivers State Head of Service, Dr George Nweke over the allegations against GovernorFubara.
Nweke had addressed a press conference last Friday, alleging that the suspended governor ordered the bombing of the state House of Assembly in 2023.
But Topba, on Monday, described the allegation as false, demanding an apology from Nweke within seven days or be ready to face a defamation suit.
The activist, who spoke to newsmen in Port Harcourt on Monday, said, “I will drag the former Head of Service to court on this because he cannot malign the image of my governor and I will allow it to go like that.
“I will sue him for defamation of character because I’m very sure that the governor has nothing to do with cultism. I will sue him and I”m using this medium to give him seven days to apologise to the governor and to Nigerians that he lied against the governor.”
He described the suspended governor as a peaceful man who has nothing to do with cultism or militancy as alleged by Nweke, even as he challenged Nweke to an open debate.
Oil communities’ appeal
Meanwhile, host communities of the Trans Niger Pipeline from three states and stakeholders have commended Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, the surveillance company responsible for securing the TNP for its services since the firm was contracted by the Federal Government.
The host communities are from Rivers, Imo and Abia states.
The stakeholders noted that since the takeover of protection of the pipelines by PINL, the TNP trunk line has witnessed improved production running into billions of dollars for the country.
They also said the line has recorded zero infractions except for the recent weeks following the impeachment move against Fubara by the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting, the Community Relations Consultant of PINL, Dr AkposMezeh, said the engagement was for the host communities and the company to review how they had fared on the security of the pipeline and seek ways of improvement.
He commended the communities for the harmonious relationship enjoyed since the company started operations.
“The communities are critical stakeholders in our business. We all know that pipeline surveillance is intelligence driven and how do we get reliable intelligence?
“It’s from the communities and so far, the support of the communities has been wonderful and we think that there is no better way to appreciate the effort than to organise a forum like this, where we can collectively review how far we have gone,” he stated.
The Paramount Ruler of Eleme Kingdom in Rivers State, Dr Philip Obele, noted that beyond pipeline surveillance, carrying out corporate social responsibility programmes and creating employment by PINL, there was a need for the communities to get fair treatment from the Federal Government.
The monarch lamented that most oil companies operating in the areas did not engage their youths which most times led to pipeline vandalism and illegal oil-bunkering.
“What the PINL is doing today is commendable. But beyond the surveillance job, you must consider permanent employment for the people, especially the youth.
“Again in the area of CSR, the communities deserve more than what they are getting from the Federal Government.
“We deserve increased opportunities, provision of social amenities and skills to better the lives of the host communities,” he said.
The President of the Movement For the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta, Kennedy West, said PINL had saved the country billions of dollars through its surveillance activities.
He, however, called on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to speak on its plans for host communities in the region.
The Paramount Ruler of Tai Kingdom, King Samuel Nnee, also commended PINL for the engagement and noted that his domain had recorded zero infractions in the pipelines because of continuous engagement with youths.
He, however, said there was a need for more participation of the locals in oil exploration.
“I want to say that Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited has done well in regard to pipeline surveillance and protection.
“But the time has come when locals should control the oils in their communities and that is the position of Ogoni people.
“So we are asking that the Federal Government should give us our lines to run it, let us exploit the oils and pay benefits to our people,” he said.
Chief Patricia Ogbonaya praised the company for allowing host communities to express their views as she advised that the company should look into suggestions from the forum.
Source:punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/rivers-fubara-vows-stronger-comeback-urges-peace/
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Eid-el-Fitr: Low-key celebrations as Nigerians lament hardship
1st April 2025
Wale Akinselure, Godwin Isenyo, Chima Azubuike, Maiharaji Altine, Animasahun Salman, Isah Ojo and Bola Bamigbola
Many Muslims had a low-key Eid-el-Fitr celebration following the growing cost of living, which made it difficult for many to celebrate in their usual style.
The surge in the prices of food, fuel, and transportation, along with ongoing security concerns, significantly affected the festive spirit across several parts of the country.
In the northern part of the country, Muslims called for prayers to end the insecurity, hardship, and economic challenges facing the country.
However, there was a low turnout of Muslim worshippers during this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in Zamfara State due to the economic hardship that has ravaged the country.
The usual heavy vehicular traffic going to the Eid praying grounds to observe Sallah prayers were absent this year as only few people could afford to drive their vehicles around town.
Similarly, very few people were able to buy new clothes or even cook good food for their families for the celebration.
The usual presentation of Sallah gifts (popularly known as goron Sallah) to loved ones had also reduced drastically.
A resident of Gusau town, Mainasara Mohammed, told The PUNCH that he did not buy new clothes for his wives and children due to the economic predicament.
He admitted that it was the first time that he would deny his children new dresses during Sallah celebrations.
“For the first time in my life, I could not buy new clothes for my family,” Mohammed lamented.
Also, Senator Lawal Usman, representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, enjoined all faithful in his constituency, Kaduna and all over Nigeria to use the occasion of the Sallah to pray for an end to the perennial insecurity, hardship, and economic challenges confronting the country.
“I urge all Muslims to use this occasion to pray for peace, security, and prosperity in our country. We must come together to pray for an end to the challenges facing us as a nation,” Usman said.
However, the economic challenges facing the country made it difficult for many Muslims to celebrate the festival with the usual fanfare.
“Last year’s celebrations were more elaborate; this year, many Muslims have had to scale down their celebrations due to the economic challenges. However, we remain grateful to Allah for the blessings we have received,” Malam Abdullahi, a resident of Kaduna, told The PUNCH.
Despite the challenges, Muslim groups in the state have emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence, love, justice, fairness, equity, peaceful coexistence with others, tolerance, honesty, and dedication to duty.
“As Muslims, we must continue to uphold the values of compassion, kindness, and generosity. We must also strive to promote peace, understanding, and harmony in our communities,” Sheikh Abdulwahab Abdulkadir, an Islamic scholar in Kaduna, stated.
The Gombe State Chairman of the Coalition of Northern Groups, Mohammed Deba, said there was no visible difference between this year’s Ramadan and last year’s.
He said, “This is the same as last year (2024). This is because of the situation on ground. Since this government emerged, no human development and everything remained the same. The level of poverty has remained unabated. However, many are getting used to the hardship already.”
In Sokoto, a Muslim group named Liberty Progressive Association commended Muslims in the state for peaceful conduct during the celebration.
The group, made up of young Muslim professionals in the state, said despite the hardship, the celebrators enjoyed a peaceful Eid-el-Fitr.
The chairman of the group, Mallam Jamiu Afolabi, said, “This year’s celebration was okay even though there was no money, but residents of the state were able to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner.
“Compare this to some years back, when things were bad, with many accidents recorded, but thank God it was fine this year.
“We also commend the state government for making things easier with the prompt payment of salary in addition to the numerous support given to workers during the Ramadan period.”
Residents of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, witnessed a calm and relaxed atmosphere during the celebration.
Some residents who spoke with The PUNCH in Maiduguri said that while the security situation had significantly improved, the economic situation remained the only barrier to the Sallah celebrations in this state.
“Just like everywhere, Borno is calm this period. Though we had a memorable Sallah celebration, but you can’t compare it with previous years,” a resident, Kida Abdulsalam, said.
“It has been about cutting cost. However, I must commend the security agencies for the peace we are currently enjoying.”
Similarly, Hassan Fatima, another resident, noted that families struggled to make ends meet.
“In this period, who spends anyhow? They prioritise food and what children will wear. Thank God we were not shamed. The Aallah came at a time when the economy is biting everyone hard, food prices are at an all-time high,” she said
South-West
Major roads across Osun State on Monday experienced light traffic as residents observed the Eid-el-Fitri holidays with their loved ones in the state.
Many hitherto busy routes, especially within Osogbo, the state capital, experienced light traffic, while a similar situation also played out in other major roads across the state.
In Ota Efun and Igbona markets, both located within the Osogbo metropolis, many shops did not open for business.
Our correspondent, who observed traffic situation in Ota-Efun-Igbona route, Olaiya-Oke Baale route, Gbongan/Osogbo road and Oke Fia-Dele Yes Sir area, noted that few mini-buses that were operational contended with a reduced number of commuters.
A mini-bus operator, who identified himself simply as Peter, said the economic situation in the country played a major role in the fewer number of commuters on the road.
Source:punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/eid-el-fitr-low-key-celebrations-as-nigerians-lament-hardship/
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Yobe urges civil servants to support govt policies
1st April 2025
Ahmed Amshi
The Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has reminded civil servants in the state on the need to rededicate themselves to their duties and services.
The governor also reiterated the need for them to stay faithful and loyal to the policies and programmes of the Mai Mala Buni administration.
This reminder was reechoed when the state government hosted top government officials, clerics, politicians, and business leaders to a reception (walima) marking the end of the Eid el-Fitr festivities at the Government House, Damaturu, on Saturday.
Represented by his deputy, Idi Barde Gubana, Governor Buni expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the peaceful and healthy celebration.
Gubana, who explained to the array of distinguished guests at the occasion that Governor Buni is currently in Saudi Arabia, performing the lesser Hajj and praying for Nigeria and Yobe State’s peace and success, urged the residents to stay committed to the government’s policies.
He seized the occasion to “remind civil servants in the state on the need to dedicate themselves to their duties and services while also staying faithful and loyal to the state government.”
Earlier, in his own remarks, the Chief Imam of Yobe Mosque and Islamic Center, Ustas Hudu Mohammad Yusuf, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful Eid el-Fitr celebration and highlighted the significance of the sallah festivities.
The event which concluded with prayers for Yobe state’s peace and progress, equally saw the attendees pray for the continued development of Nigeria as a whole before the dignitaries exchanged the routine “Eid Mubarak, Barka da Sallah,” greetings.
Source:punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/yobe-urges-civil-servants-to-support-govt-policies/
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I Could Not Bring Myself To Watch The Full Video – Northern Actress Fumes Over Edo Massacre, Calls For Justice
March 31, 2025
By Justina Otio
Popular Kannywood actress, Rahama Sadau, has condemned the brutal murder of some Northern travellers in Uromi, Edo State.
Sadau accused the authorities of failing to carry out due diligence in its investigation, adding that they could have intervened to stop the killings, which she believes took time to carry out.
She demanded justice for the victims, adding that the North would not forget the tragic incident.
Speaking via her X handle, she wrote, “I am angry. I couldn’t bring myself to watch the full video of the massacre in Edo State… Allah ya isa!!! Allah ya isa!!! Allah ya isa!!! What have we become as humans, please? Wallahi, zuciyatazafitakeyi… Where were the authorities when that happened? I’m sure it took them time to carry out such a brutal act. Justice must be served!! #TheNorthRemembers.”
Meanwhile, Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested the suspended Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin, in connection with the gruesome lynching of travellers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, on March 27.
Naija News reports that this arrest comes shortly after Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, announced Ibadin’s suspension, promising swift justice for those behind the tragic incident.
Sources allege that Ibadin, a native of Uromi, may have been aware of the operations of unauthorized vigilante groups in the area but failed to act.
His alleged silence and inaction have sparked growing concerns that he may have either ignored or indirectly supported the activities of the rogue elements.
Governor Okpebholo, taking a tough stance on the matter, had earlier instructed security agencies to spare no effort in hunting down all those connected to the killings. He stressed: “No one is above the law.”
A high-ranking official, who requested anonymity, confirmed to Vanguard that Ibadin was apprehended by the DSS as part of a broader investigation into the killings.
The source added that the state government is determined to ensure justice is served, warning that all perpetrators will be held accountable under the law.
Source:naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/31/i-could-not-bring-myself-to-watch-the-full-video-northern-actress-fumes-over-edo-massacre-calls-for-justice/
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Tension, Fear Engulf UromiAs Residents Abandon Homes Amid Police Crackdown
April 1, 2025
Several communities around Old Ilushi Road, Opere, and Good Will Junction in Uromi, Edo State, have been deserted as residents flee over fears of reprisals and arrests.
Naija News understands that this follows the lynching of 16 travellers by a mob last Thursday.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, who was in Kano State on Monday, condemned the killings and promised justice for the victims. He disclosed that 14 suspects arrested in connection with the incident will be transferred to Abuja for further investigation. The governor also visited the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North), during his trip.
Meanwhile, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called for the establishment of an independent judicial panel to thoroughly investigate the tragedy.
Vanguard learned that many Uromi residents have stopped going to their farms and are seeking refuge in nearby towns. Fear of indiscriminate arrests and possible retaliation has gripped the community, especially among the youth, many of whom are fleeing.
A resident identified as Monday recounted the events leading to the mob attack. “The vigilante group received a tip-off from communities along Old Ilushi Road that the travellers had weapons in their vehicle. When they got to Uromi, the vigilantes asked them to step down, but they refused. One of them brought out a knife, and that triggered the alarm,” he said.
“Though no one is justifying the killings, those involved in the mob action have now fled, while innocent people are being arrested. On Saturday, police arrested a man on a GLK motorcycle near Opere Secondary School during a wedding ceremony. He claimed he had no idea what happened the previous day,” he added.
According to him, the area remains largely empty, with only a few motorcycles moving around. “Around noon on Monday, more arrests were made. People are living in fear. This place has been terrorized by kidnappers, many believed to be herders and hunters from the north,” he added.
He also recounted a recent kidnapping incident: “A young lady was abducted right in front of her home on March 30. As of 2 p.m. today, her abductors still haven’t made contact.”
Most residents who spoke with Vanguard on condition of anonymity claimed that while they do not condone mob justice, the victims were suspected kidnappers, not hunters as widely reported.
Another resident, Mr. Akhere, said: “No one supports mob justice, but these men were not hunters. Real hunters go with dogs. Our vigilantes have been tracking these suspected kidnappers. On that day, they boarded a truck near Ubiaja with guns and large amounts of cash. The mistake was not handing them over to the police. People here are frustrated; they’ve lost loved ones, they’ve suffered. The government has been slow to act.”
Peter, another local, said his cousin—who is part of the town’s security effort—had to flee when he returned and saw the wave of arrests. “Even though he wasn’t involved, he knew he might be targeted. Others have also left, fearing retaliation. We heard that there was panic in Ekpoma earlier today,” he said.
Ekpoma in Panic Over Invasion Rumour
In nearby Ekpoma, there was chaos at the local market on Monday following rumors that Fulani herders were planning an attack. The false alarm caused motorists to make sudden U-turns and traders to flee. However, security personnel quickly intervened to calm the situation.
For some, the recent violence is just a symptom of long-standing pain. Jenny Osajie, 30, recalled how her brother was kidnapped and murdered after the family failed to raise a ₦5 million ransom.
“They boldly called us to pick up his dead body, and we found it exactly where they said. I’m a Christian, so I’ve left it to God. But the anger is real. We’ve been crying to the government for years—why did they only act now? Is it because of who the victims were?” she questioned.
Source:naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2025/04/01/tension-fear-engulf-uromi-as-residents-abandon-homes-amid-police-crackdown/
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House Of Representatives Fails To Secure Arrest Of NIMC Director-General
April 1, 2025
By Enioluwa Adeniyi
There are growing concerns that the House of Representatives has yet to secure the arrest of the Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Abisoye Coker-Odusote, for her failure to appear before the chamber in relation to an ongoing investigation.
On February 12, 2025, the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions, chaired by Mike Etaba, threatened to issue an arrest warrant for Coker-Odusote after her alleged breach of a software development license agreement with Truid Limited.
Coker-Odusote, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in 2023, reportedly ignored the committee’s invitation for a hearing scheduled for March 13, 2025.
Naija News reports that the committee had been probing an agreement where Truid Limited financed, developed, and deployed a tokenisation system for NIMC without any financial contribution from the commission.
In return, Truid Limited was to recover its investment through service provider patronage, with proceeds shared based on a predetermined ratio.
E.R. Opara, counsel for Truid Limited, claimed that the agreement was meant to run for 10 years, starting from the deployment of the software in 2021.
However, Opara accused Coker-Odusote of attempting to terminate the agreement shortly after her appointment, which led to the ongoing dispute.
Etaba, expressing frustration with Coker-Odusote’s defiance, had warned that the committee would seek an arrest warrant if she failed to attend the hearing on March 13.
He said, “If she fails to show up at the next hearing of this case, we will have no option other than to ask the Inspector-General of Police to bring her.”
He further added, “How can an official of government treat constituted authority with such levity? We can no longer condone such an attitude.”
More than two weeks after the scheduled hearing on March 13, The Cable revealed that Coker-Odusote still has not honoured the invitation. It appears that the committee has not yet managed to secure a warrant for her arrest.
The NIMC tokenisation system, launched on December 22, 2021, was introduced by the federal government to enhance the privacy and security of personally identifiable information during verification transactions.
The solution was also intended to reduce the illegal retrieval, usage, transfer, and storage of National Identity Number (NIN) data.
In September 2021, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, announced the approval of ₦25 billion by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to upgrade and replace NIMC’s identity infrastructure.
Source:naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/04/01/house-of-representatives-fails-to-secure-arrest-of-nimc-director-general/
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Southeast Asia
Donate surplus Aidilfitri food to help others and protect the environment
Bernama
01-04- 2025
SEREMBAN: The Syawal festivities bring joy and an array of delicious dishes, yet, all too often, perfectly good leftovers are discarded, instead of being shared or saved.
Sadly, we often overlook that this wasted surplus could bring joy to those in need, creating priceless moments of happiness in their hearts.
Beyond preventing waste, initiatives like sharing perfectly good leftovers with those in need can also help reduce landfill waste, said Negeri Sembilan Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) director Cairul Hisham Jalaluddin.
“Based on a study of waste composition in Negeri Sembilan this year, food waste - particularly surplus food - accounts for 29 to 30 per cent of landfill waste, compared with other solid waste.
“This not only results in financial losses, but also harms the environment. It is crucial to continuously educate families on the importance of proper waste management,” he told Bernama recently.
He said that SWCorp has implemented several initiatives, including the ‘HargaiMakananElakkanPembaziran’ (Value Food, Avoid Waste) campaign, which aims to raise public awareness of the importance of redirecting surplus food to those in need.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi reportedly said that, according to statistics, Malaysia disposes of 8.3 million tonnes of food waste annually - equivalent to each individual contributing around 260 kilogrammes per year, with 24 per cent of it still fit for consumption.Travel packages to Malaysia
Meanwhile, Cairul Hisham added that the environmental impact during Syawal could be minimised by reducing the use of single-use packaging and opting for recyclable materials, such as glass or aluminium containers.
He emphasised the need for the public to provide separate bins for organic waste, recyclables, and general waste. Additionally, ensuring proper disposal of food and kitchen waste can help reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills.
He said the amount of waste sent to landfills in the state during Syawal 2023 was 28,993.94 tonnes per month, rising to 32,413.96 tonnes last year - an 11.8 per cent increase.
“So, there is a possibility of another rise in waste disposal during this year’s Aidilfitri celebrations if proper waste management measures are not in place,” he cautioned.
Meanwhile, he added that his team would intensify operations to uphold public cleanliness throughout the festive period, with 18 enforcement personnel deployed during Aidilfitri.
Negeri Sembilan Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) director Cairul Hisham Jalaluddin. Bernamapix
Source:thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/donate-surplus-aidilfitri-food-to-help-others-and-protect-the-environment-FN13876715
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Trader killed, 14 injured in head-on crash on rural road near Kluang
01 Apr 2025
KLUANG, April 1 — A trader was killed while 14 others were injured when the cars they were travelling in collided at KM 25 of Jalan Renggam-Layang-Layang here yesterday.
Kluang police chief ACP Bahrin Mohd Noh said the deceased was identified as 29-year-old Muhammad Amiruddin Kamalruzaman and that the crash, which occurred at about 8 pm, involved a Honda City car and a Honda Stream multi-purpose vehicle.
He said a 35-year-old woman was driving the Honda Stream, with eight passengers on board, aged between three and 21, while the Honda City was driven by Muhammad Amiruddin, with five passengers on board, aged between one and 60.
“From our investigations, we found that the Honda Stream was heading from Renggam towards Layang-Layang while the Honda City was coming from the opposite direction,” he said in a statement today.
Bahrin said the Honda Stream was believed to have lost control and entered the opposite lane, resulting in a head-on collision with the Honda City.
He added that Muhammad Amirudin, who suffered serious injuries to his face and head, died while receiving treatment at the Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom Hospital (HEBHK), Kluang while the Honda Stream driver, who also suffered injuries to his face and body, is receiving treatment at the same hospital.
The other passengers, who injured their heads and bodies, were referred to the HEBHK.
Meanwhile, the Renggam Fire and Rescue Station operations commander, PBK I Abdul Rahim Razali said the Honda Stream driver was pinned in his vehicle and had to be rescued using special equipment.
“The other victims had been rescued by members of the public. A total of 10 firefighters from the Renggam and Layang-Layang stations were involved in the rescue operation,” he added. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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Soldier who allegedly punched woman driver in Seremban accident released on police bail
By Malay Mail
31 Mar 2025
PETALING JAYA, March 31 — A soldier who allegedly punched a woman driver following an accident in Seremban has been released on police bail, according to Berita Harian.
Seremban police chief Hatta Che Din said the 35-year-old suspect, who was arrested yesterday, was freed after providing his statement.
“Bukit Aman has taken over the case because the suspect is a public servant,” he was quoted as saying.
A video of the incident, which went viral on TikTok, showed the man confronting the woman in her car before punching her twice.
Hatta previously said the accident occurred along Jalan Persiaran Senawang 4 when the woman driver was unable to avoid the suspect’s wife, 34, and seven-year-old daughter, who had suddenly crossed the road.
Enraged after the accident, the suspect allegedly punched the 28-year-old driver while she was still in her car seat.
The attack left the woman with bruises on her right ribs and swelling on the back of her head. Her car also sustained damage.
The case is being investigated under Section 323 and Section 427 of the Penal Code, as well as Rule 10 of the Road Traffic Rules 1959.
Source:malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/31/soldier-who-allegedly-punched-woman-driver-in-seremban-accident-released-on-police-bail/171488
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Gas pipeline blaze: Selangor govt activates relief centre at Putra Heights mosque
Bernama
01-04- 2025
SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government has activated a relief centre at Putra Heights Mosque to accommodate residents affected by a fire caused by a burst gas pipeline in Jalan Putra Harmoni, Putra Heights today.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the fire department is currently working to control the blaze and has ordered the evacuation of residents in the surrounding area.
“The District Disaster Management Unit has activated the relief centre at Putra Heights Mosque to temporarily house those affected until the situation is under control,” he said in a post on X.
Meanwhile, Selangor Disaster Management Committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi said in a statement that several houses in Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru were also affected by the fire, though the exact number has yet to be determined.
“There are also victims trapped inside the houses, and rescue efforts are ongoing.
“Those who have been rescued have been taken to the relief centre, while several burn victims are awaiting ambulances for medical treatment. For now, the mosque is assisting the victims,” he said.
Source:thesun.my
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Putra Heights gas pipeline blaze: PM Anwar urges state gov’t, relevant agencies to provide assistance
Bernama
01-04- 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the Selangor government and the relevant agencies to provide appropriate assistance to those affected by this morning’s gas pipeline blaze in Jalan Putra Harmoni, Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, Selangor.
Anwar also prayed that all matters of the personnel involved in the operation would be facilitated.
“Praying for the smooth facilitation of all matters for the personnel involved in Putra Heights,” the Prime Minister posted on Facebook today.
So far, Selangor deputy police chief DCP Mohd Zaini Abu Hassan said a total of 112 individuals and 49 houses were impacted by a gas pipeline fire.
He added that the 112 injured victims involved residents of Taman Harmoni and Kampung Kuala Kuala Sungai Baharu.
“Among them, 63 individuals were sent to hospitals in Cyberjaya, Serdang and Putrajaya for further treatment, due to burns, respiratory issues and other injuries.
“The remaining 49 victims received initial treatment at the Sri Maha Kaliamman temple in Subang Jaya,” he told a press conference at the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Special Operations Centre here today.Travel packages to Malaysia
Source:thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/putra-heights-gas-pipeline-blaze-pm-anwar-urges-state-gov-t-relevant-agencies-to-provide-assistance-ON13878314
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10 held over scuffle at firecracker sales site in Sungai Ara
Bernama
01-04- 2025
GEORGE TOWN: Police have arrested 10 men involved in a scuffle at a firecracker sales site in Sungai Ara, Bayan Lepas, near here, last night.
Barat Daya police chief ACP Sazalee Adam said the incident stemmed from a dispute over the firecracker sales site between two premises selling firecrackers in the area.
“A team from the Criminal Investigation Division of the Barat Daya district police headquarters, along with the Bayan Lepas Police Station, rushed to the scene after receiving information about the fight, around 10.15 last night.
“The police were able to resolve the case swiftly, following the arrest of 10 men, aged between 15 and 41, who are believed to have been involved in the scuffle,” he said in a statement, today.
Sazalee added that all the suspects have been remanded for three days, until April 3, and the case is being investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code.
He also urged the public not to make any speculation which could threaten public order.
Earlier, several images depicting the fight involving a group of men went viral on social media.
Source:thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/10-held-over-scuffle-at-firecracker-sales-site-in-sungai-ara-HN13877981
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Report on fatal Titiwangsa LRT accident submitted to MOT, APAD
Bernama
31-03- 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: The report on the fatal incident involving a visually impaired man who was run over by a train after falling onto the Titiwangsa Light Rail Transit (LRT) tracks on Feb 22 has been submitted to the Ministry of Transport (MOT) and the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD).
Prasarana Malaysia Berhad president and group chief executive officer Mohd Azharuddin Mat Sah said the report was prepared by a committee established to investigate the tragedy and recommend improvements to prevent similar incidents.Malaysian history books
He added that the number of auxiliary police and operational staff at platforms has been increased, particularly at stations frequently used by persons with disabilities.
“As a mid-term solution, we plan to collaborate with the authorities to install sensors on platforms, if feasible, to alert us when someone steps beyond the designated safety zone.
“For the long term, we will begin installing platform screen doors, similar to those at MRT stations,” he told reporters after meeting Rapid KL personnel on duty for Hari Raya Aidilfitri at the Pasar Seni Bus and Rail Hub today.
Mohd Azharuddin said that 3,730 staff, including those from bus and rail operations, were on duty today to ensure smooth operations as commuters took advantage of the public holiday to visit family and explore the city.
He added that Prasarana will adjust service frequencies and staffing to over 5,000 personnel when city dwellers return from their hometowns after the holiday.
Asked about the cybersecurity threat that affected specific computer systems at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on March 23, he said Prasarana remains vigilant on the matter, working closely with the National Cyber Security Agency.
He said Transport Minister Anthony Loke has also instructed the company to ensure its cybersecurity systems remain at the optimum level.
Meanwhile, KLCC LRT station manager Mohamad Fauzi Abdul Manap, 47, shared his experience of working during the festive season.
Fauzi, who hails from Ipoh, Perak, admitted that it is difficult to be away from family during Hari Raya, but he is committed to his responsibilities.
“Of course, it’s sad not being able to celebrate with my family or return to my hometown. I can only see photos of the celebration on WhatsApp... But over time, you get used to it.
“Duty comes first. As a station manager, I have to ensure smooth operations and the proper functioning of all equipment.
“One of the challenges of working at stations like KLCC, Pasar Seni, and Masjid Jamek during Hari Raya is handling the surge of foreign visitors. Many of them can’t read, or they are unfamiliar with using the LRT system,” he said.
Source:thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/report-on-fatal-titiwangsa-lrt-accident-submitted-to-mot-apad-EN13875472
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Sultan Nazrin arrives at Indera Mulia Stadium to grace Perak state level Aidilfitri celebration
Bernama
31-03- 2025
IPOH: The Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah and the Raja Permaisuri of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim graced the Perak State Level Hari Raya Aidilfitri Celebration Ceremony 2025 at the Indera Mulia Stadium here today.
The royal couple who arrived at 3.05 pm were greeted by Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, state exco and several dignitaries.
Also arriving to grace the ceremony were the Raja Muda of Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa and Raja Di Hilir Raja Iskandar Dzurkarnain Sultan Idris A’fifullah Shah.
Also present was Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
At the event, Sultan Nazrin and Tuanku Zara also presented duitraya donations to the residents of orphanages, namely Vision Home, Anning Orphan & Poor Home Management Organisation, Darussalam Orphanage Welfare Organisation and Sultan Abdul Aziz Kuala Kangsar Children’s Home.
About 20,000 multiracial people enlivened the celebration and enjoyed various dishes prepared including satay, kebab, nasi himpit, kuetiau, ketupat, lemang, rendang, laksa, apamlenggang and drinks.
Earlier, Saarani in his speech said every Malaysian has a responsibility to unite and reconcile.
“Each of us has a responsibility to rekindle the spirit of unity, so that it is not left dark by the fire of hostility,“ he said.
He said the festive season is a time to reconnect the heart to rekindle the spirit of belonging.
This is because he said that in recent times, the community has often been faced with various incidents and episodes that have shaken the spirit of unity.
“Even more unfortunate, every issue that arises is no longer talked about according to the wisdom of scholarly narratives, but rather is responded to with emotion and prejudice according to religious and racial narratives.
“So much so, polemics and debates that arise often trigger prejudices and doubts. One after another, hate narratives are fostered so that people are easily suspicious of each other.
“More worryingly, these voices of hatred are welcomed by the younger generation who do not have time to feel the beauty of true unity, and without hesitation speak hostile language,“ he said.
Source:thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/sultan-nazrin-arrives-at-indera-mulia-stadium-to-grace-perak-state-level-aidilfitri-celebration-EN13875414
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Gas pipeline inferno: Anwar urges state govt, agencies to provide immediate aid
01 Apr 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the Selangor government and the relevant agencies to provide appropriate assistance to those affected by this morning’s gas pipeline blaze in Jalan Putra Harmoni, Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, Selangor.
Anwar also prayed that all matters of the personnel involved in the operation would be facilitated.
“Praying for the smooth facilitation of all matters for the personnel involved in Putra Heights,” the Prime Minister posted on Facebook today.
So far, Selangor deputy police chief DCP Mohd Zaini Abu Hassan said a total of 112 individuals and 49 houses were impacted by a gas pipeline fire.
He added that the 112 injured victims involved residents of Taman Harmoni and Kampung Kuala Kuala Sungai Baharu.
“Among them, 63 individuals were sent to hospitals in Cyberjaya, Serdang and Putrajaya for further treatment, due to burns, respiratory issues and other injuries.
“The remaining 49 victims received initial treatment at the Sri Maha Kaliamman temple in Subang Jaya,” he told a press conference at the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Special Operations Centre here today. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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SouthAsia
Fakhrul hails ‘free and joyful’ Eid, hopes for restoration of democracy
Mar 31, 2025
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the people are celebrating this year's Eid in a joyful and free environment— a stark contrast to what he described as 15 years of oppressive rule under the Awami League's "fascist government."
Speaking to the media after paying homage to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr today, he expressed hope that the interim government would restore democracy and the people's right to vote, fulfilling its promises to the nation.
"There is a significant difference between this year's Eid and the celebrations of the past 15 years. This time, we are celebrating in a free, joyful atmosphere," Fakhrul said.
He added that for the last 15 years, the people have fought for democracy, voting rights, food security, and human rights.
Fakhrul further said BNP leaders and activists prayed on Eid day for the success of this struggle and the restoration of democracy.
"On this day, we hope that all those in positions of responsibility will succeed in their duties, particularly the interim government, which must fulfil its commitments to the people," he added.
He also mentioned that BNP leaders and workers had renewed their pledge to uphold their commitments to the public.
"We prayed for the well-being of all Bangladeshis and also for the swift recovery of our leader, Begum Khaleda Zia, as well as the immediate return of our acting chairman, Tarique Rahman," he said.
Earlier, Fakhrul, along with BNP leaders and activists, paid tribute to Ziaur Rahman by placing a wreath at his grave in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka.
Among those present were BNP Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, and Nazrul Islam Khan, alongside senior leaders Ahmed Azam Khan, Amanullah Aman, Mahbub Uddin Khokon, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Habib-Un-Nabi Khan Sohel, Syed Emran Saleh Prince, Mir Sarfat Ali Sapu, Rafiqul Islam, Saiful Alam Nirab, Mir Newaz Ali, Aminul Haque, and over a thousand activists from BNP and its affiliated organisations.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/fakhrul-hails-free-and-joyful-eid-hopes-restoration-democracy-3861271
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Islamic Emirate Urges Voluntary Return of Afghan Refugees Amid Deportation Concerns
2025-04-01
KABUL(BNA): The Islamic Emirate has reiterated its call for the voluntary return of Afghan migrants as the celebration of Eid al-Fitr already began. This appeal comes in light of increasing deportations of Afghan refugees from neighboring countries, mainly Iran and Pakistan.
In recent months, both Iran and Pakistan have stepped up efforts to deport Afghan refugees. Notably, Pakistan has announced a renewed crackdown, stating that it will deport individuals without legal residence permits, even as valid cardholders face uncertainty.
Mawlavi Abdul Kabir, the country’s Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, has urged neighboring countries to halt these deportations and allow Afghans to return home voluntarily. He emphasized the importance of humane treatment for refugees, especially in light of reports of mistreatment of Afghans by border nations, including instances where individuals holding legal visas were also deported.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/islamic-emirate-urges-voluntary-return-of-afghan-refugees-amid-deportation-concerns/
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Narail freedom fighter killed in clash on Eid Day
Apr 1, 2025
A freedom fighter was hacked to death during a clash between two rival groups in Lohagara upazila of Narail on Eid day, said police.
The deceased, Akbar Hossain Sheikh, 77, was a resident of LahuriaPaschimpara in the upazila, said Md Ashiqur Rahman, officer-in-charge (OC) of Lohagara Police Station.
According to locals, there had been a longstanding dispute between the Bachchu group and the Milton Jamadar group over establishing dominance in the area.
The clash erupted around 4:00pm on Monday following an altercation between their supporters. Both groups, armed with local weapons, attacked each other.
During the clash, Akbar, a follower of the Bachchu group, was hacked by members of the rival group.
He sustained critical injuries and later succumbed while undergoing treatment at Mohammadpur Hospital in Magura, the OC added.
Upon receiving the information, police recovered the body and sent it to Magura Sadar Hospital for an autopsy.
As of 12:00pm today, no case has been filed regarding the incident.
However, the correspondent could not reach any leader of both groups for comment in this regard.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/crime-justice/news/narail-freedom-fighter-killed-clash-eid-day-3861556
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No Eid festivities for 2,500 tea workers in Sylhet
Mar 31, 2025
Nazma Akhter, a widow who works at Kalagul Tea Garden in Sylhet, has been struggling to make ends meet for her family of six as she has not been paid for the past three months.
Nazma Akhter, a widow working at the Kalagul Tea Garden in Sylhet, has been struggling to support her family of six as she has not been paid for the past three months.
Nazma Akhter, a widow working at Kalagul Tea Garden in Sylhet, has been struggling to support her family of six as she has not been paid for the past three months.
The family's sole breadwinner, Nazma has been forced to take loans and purchase essentials on credit. However, with the debt piling up and the shopkeepers no longer willing to extend her credit, she now finds herself in dire straits.
"I have not been paid for three months and also didn't receive an Eid bonus. I couldn't buy new clothes for my children. We are robbed of our smiles on this day," Nazma said.
Abdul Qadir, another worker at the tea garden, echoed her.
At least 70 Muslim tea workers' families and around 400 Hindu workers' families in the garden have been enduring misery without receiving their wages or rations for three months. Eid bonuses were also not disbursed.
As a result, many families have been pushed to the brink, with no clear solution in sight.
"It is a daily struggle to ensure two handfuls of rice for all eight members of my family," said Fatema Begum, 45, a worker at Kalagul Tea Garden and the sole wage-earner in the family.
"While children from neighbouring tea gardens are enjoying the Eid festivities, mine are at home, disheartened, while I am still wondering how to feed them for the day," she added.
Raju Goala, organising secretary of the Bangladesh Tea Workers' Union, said that over 2,500 workers from several tea gardens owned by Burjan Tea Company -- including Burjan, Charagang, and Kalagul -- are facing severe financial hardship.
"The workers are struggling to get food for their families. Burjan Tea Company owes them more than three months of unpaid salaries, rations, and Eid bonuses. While the workers are protesting, the company's general manager is nowhere to be found," he added.
So far, the company's response has been less than reassuring. They have repeatedly stated that the wages would be paid soon, but months have passed, and the workers are still waiting to be paid," Goala said.
Sohag Chhatri, a tea workers' leader, said, "The company used to pay us weekly, but for the past 15 consecutive weeks, there has been no payment or rations. The company's hospital has no medicine, and we still haven't received our festival bonuses for this year or last."
The workers have written letters to the deputy commissioner of Sylhet and the Divisional Labour Office, urging the authorities to intervene and ensure that the company pays their dues, but no action has been taken yet.
Sanjay Kanta Das, adviser to the Bangladesh Tea Workers' Federation, called on the government to intervene and address the issue immediately, warning that the workers would have no choice but to take to the streets if the matter is not resolved soon.
When contacted, Md Kamruzzaman, manager of Burjan Tea Garden Company, said the company had applied for a bank loan to pay the overdue wages and rations.
"The tea garden has been operating at a loss and now relies on loans from the bank to continue operating. Once we receive the loan, the arrears will be settled," he added.Mohammad Sher Mahbub Murad, deputy commissioner of Sylhet, said they have reached out to the company over the issue and hope that the company will pay the workers promptly once the loan is approved.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/no-eid-festivities-2500-tea-workers-sylhet-3861316
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Massive Protests Erupt in Egypt Against Palestinian Eviction Plan
2025-04-01
KABUL(BNA): On Monday, hundreds of thousands of Egyptians took to the streets in a powerful display of solidarity with the Palestinian people following Eid prayers. The protests were sparked by widespread concerns over plans to relocate Palestinians, particularly those in Gaza, and were characterized by chants of support for the Palestinian cause and condemnation of Israeli actions.
Demonstrators gathered in cities across the country, raising Palestinian flags and voicing their opposition to displacement efforts. Many protesters expressed their support for a reconstruction plan for Gaza proposed by Arab countries, emphasizing the need for increased humanitarian aid to the region.
The protests reflected a strong alignment with the Egyptian political leadership’s stance on the Palestinian issue, as demonstrators rallied to support the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people. Participants called for an acceleration of aid delivery and reiterated their commitment to resisting any plans aimed at displacing Palestinians.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/massive-protests-erupt-in-egypt-against-palestinian-eviction-plan/
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Pakistan begins forced deportation of Afghan migrants after March 31 deadline ends
By Fidel Rahmati
April 1, 2025
Pakistan has started deporting Afghan migrants after the March 31 deadline, with no extension granted for voluntary departure.
The Pakistani government has begun deporting Afghans living in the country without legal documents, starting today, Tuesday, April 1st, after the deadline for voluntary departure expired.
Pakistani media reports that after the expiration of this deadline, the process of deporting Afghan migrants has formally begun. Despite widespread concerns, international organizations and human rights groups had urged the government to extend this deadline.
Geo News reported on Tuesday, April 1st, that officials in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province confirmed the operation to expel Afghan migrants will proceed without extending the previous deadline.
From the morning of Tuesday, April 1, reports from major cities in Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Islamabad, indicated the start of security forces’ operations to identify and detain illegal migrants.
Illegal Afghan migrants, after being arrested, are transferred to temporary centers and then deported through border crossings to Afghanistan. Eyewitnesses report that police and security forces are conducting patrols in areas with large migrant populations and carrying out house-to-house inspections.
The United Nations, through the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has repeatedly warned about the humanitarian consequences of these deportations.
These organizations have assessed that many Afghan migrants, who fled to Pakistan after the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, face serious risks such as harassment, insecurity, and lack of basic necessities if returned to their home country.
Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have also criticized the forced deportations, arguing they violate international laws, particularly the principle of “Non-Refoulement.” Amnesty has called on Pakistan to halt this process.
The international community, including humanitarian organizations, is calling for an immediate stop to these deportations due to the potential human rights violations. The situation remains tense as thousands of vulnerable migrants face the risk of being sent back to uncertain and dangerous conditions in Afghanistan.
Source:khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/pakistan-begins-forced-deportation-of-afghan-migrants-after-march-31-deadline-ends/
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NPP’s volte-face from its own pledge on PTA
1 April 2025
The notorious Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act are probably the most misused laws in Sri Lanka by the law enforcement authorities, in most cases pacifying the politicians in power.
The PTA has been misused against hundreds of Tamil youth, accusing them of involving in separatist activities. Some Tamil youth arrested under this law have been in prisons not for years but decades. Namal Rajapaksa, in 2021 when he was a minister told parliament that some of the Tamil detainees who had been arrested under the PTA have been in remand prisons for longer than his age (35 years then), with no charges having been filed against them.
What a crime! Yet, even his government was not moved by his revelation. No detainee so languishing in jails were released at least on bail, while the leaders of the LTTE who ordered or supplied arms and ammunition to brutally kill tens of thousands of civilians outside the war theatre enjoyed or are still enjoying the luxuries of the free world with state patronage. It was these government leaders who are strengthening the separatist tendencies within the Tamil community by this kind of arrogance.
The ICCPR which was meant for the protection of the minorities in various countries in the world was once used here against a writer for writing a controversial short-story. It was also used against an innocent rural woman falsely accusing her of wearing an attire with a Buddhist symbol printed on it. The Muslim woman from Hasalaka who was arrested in the month of Ramadan which is holy to Muslims was later acquitted by the court, yet she had to undergo a lot of sufferings, especially for her being pregnant at the time of the arrest.
The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), the steering group in the current National People’s Power (NPP) government also seem to be going back on its decade long promise against the use of the PTA. The government used it first against the suspects who were accused to have conspired to harm the Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay in the Eastern Province in October last year.
Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath stated then that in spite of their party being committed to replace the PTA with a new terrorism related law in par with the international standards, his government had to use the existing law until then. The JVP leaders seem to have forgotten their own contention that the country has so many laws that could address terrorism, other than the draconian PTA.
In a latest incident police have arrested a 22-year-old Muslim youth for pasting a pro-Palestinian sticker on a wall of a shopping mall in Slave Island in Colombo. Police defended the arrest by saying in a statement that “he was taken into custody due to concerns over his radical views and because he is considered a person who shows a tendency to engage in some form of terrorist activity.” However, the statement also relates the arrest to the arrival of tourists in the near future. Whatever the reason may be, the question remains as to how the police under a government that campaigned for the abrogation of the PTA use the same oppressive law against a single individual who does not seem to have links with any terrorist group.
Sri Lanka has given an undertaking to the international community, especially the UNHRC and the European Union to repeal or replace the PTA with a new law in line with international standards. Accordingly, the so-called Yahapalana Government presented the “Counter Terrorism Bill” followed by the last government drafting the “Anti-Terrorism Bill,” interestingly under the guidance of Ranil Wickremesinghe, in the first occasion as the Prime Minister and later as the President. However, local as well as international human rights organisations including the UNHRC rejected them as being more ruthless than the existing PTA.
The government which is surviving on a bailout package offered by the IMF has to remember that the European Parliament on June 10, 2021 has threatened to withdraw the GSP + concessions awarded to Sri Lanka unless the country takes some positive steps towards PTA and those who had been arrested under it including Shani Abeysekara, the current Director of the Criminal Intelligence Analysis and Prevention Division. If the government is not concerned about its own moral responsibility, it, at least has to take these external threats into account.
Source:dailymirror.lk
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