<p>The US dollar’s position as the world's main reserve currency is slowly being undermined, with several countries shedding their holdings of US Treasury securities, once considered the safest asset. Amid this, economist Peter Schiff warned that the US economy is on the brink of “the biggest economic crisis of our lifetimes,” citing the rise in gold and silver as other factors. What really is the situation with the US dollar? Let's dive in.</p><h2>Peter Schiff's warning on US economy</h2><p>Schiff warned that the fall in treasury holdings and rise in gold and silver prices could send consumer prices, bond yields, and unemployment soaring in the US.</p><p>Some of his predictions could be alarmist and should be taken with a pinch of salt, as Schiff is a well-known gold advocate and frequent critic of US monetary policy. Schiff's forecasts are not new; he has been discussing hyperinflation, gold price surges, and imminent dollar destruction for 15 years, most of which did not happen within his predicted timeframe or scale.</p><h2>Gold and silver prices are indeed rising</h2><p>Gold and silver prices fluctuate daily, and both reached record or near-record highs in recent years, with gold around $2,600–$2,700 per ounce in late 2025, and silver above $30–$35 per ounce. Geopolitical uncertainties, Federal Reserve activity, and inflation hedging are among the reasons.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-finance-the-dollar-hovers-near-two-month-lows-1765890227661/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-finance-the-dollar-hovers-near-two-month-lows-1765890227661/embed</a></p><h2>US Treasuries is a sign of trust in the dollar but who is trimming holdings?</h2><p>As the world’s primary reserve currency, the dollar is roughly 60 per cent of global reserves. Demand for US Treasuries remains strong. But foreign holdings of US Treasury securities - including bills, notes, and bonds - have slowly been declining, as tracked by the US Treasury Department’s Treasury International Capital (TIC) system.&nbsp;</p><p>Total foreign holdings currently exceed $9 trillion, with the largest holders being Japan (around $1.1–1.2 trillion), followed by the UK (around $800–900 billion), and China (around $750–800 billion). Net inflows in recent months are primarily driven by private investors and some official institutions.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/how-the-us-government-shutdown-will-affect-gold-dollar-bond-yield-1759309150735">How the US government shutdown will affect gold, dollar, bond yield</a></p><p>China has been the most notable long-term reducer of US Treasury holdings, after peaking at around $1.3 trillion in the early 2010s. Its holdings have fallen to roughly $750–760 billion. Diversification into gold and other currencies is part of China’s effort to reduce reliance on dollar assets amid geopolitical tensions.&nbsp;</p><p>Russia’s holdings fell sharply after 2022 due to sanctions following the Ukraine invasion, declining to under $2 billion from tens of billions before 2022.</p><p>Saudi Arabia and some other oil exporters have occasionally reduced holdings for short-term capital needs and diversification. Switzerland, Germany, and Norway have also trimmed US Treasury holdings in recent months, as have smaller holders like Brazil and Vietnam.</p><p>These reductions have not led to broader sell-offs, at least for now.</p><p>In fact, Japan has increased its holdings to record levels of around $1.15 trillion as of 2025. The UK has risen to the second-largest holder of US Treasuries, surpassing China this year, with around $850–865 billion currently.</p><h2>India is reducing its US Treasury holdings&nbsp;</h2><p>India has gradually reduced its US Treasury securities over the past year as part of a broader diversification strategy by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Factors include US trade policies, diversification trends, and a preference for gold as a hedge against dollar volatility and inflation.</p><p>Concerns over US fiscal debt, credit rating issues, and rising yields have also contributed. India's US treasury holdings had peaked in 2024 at $247 billion, but fell to around $220 billion by year-end.</p><p>Yet, India remains among the top 20 foreign holders of US Treasuries.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-rupee-slips-to-all-time-low-of-90-72-against-us-dollar-trump-tariffs-fpis-stock-market-news-indian-markets-investing-us-economy-1765804328339">Indian rupee slips to all-time low of 90.72 against US dollar</a></p><h2>India is increasing its gold reserves</h2><p>The RBI has simultaneously increased gold reserves, adding dozens of tonnes in 2025, bringing total reserves to over 880 metric tonnes. Gold now accounts for roughly 14–15 per cent of the RBI’s reserves. Overall, India’s total foreign exchange reserves have remained robust at around $690–700 billion, adequate to cover a large share of imports and external liabilities.</p><p>Unlike Japan and the UK, India and other BRICS nations have trimmed exposure, often in response to global uncertainties.</p><p>India's foreign currency assets usually constitute about 80–85 per cent of total reserves, mostly in US dollar-denominated assets such as US Treasury securities, deposits, and sovereign bonds.</p>

US dollar may be facing a slow decline as the world's reserve currency, while gold and silver prices surge. Countries, including India have trimmed US Treasury holdings. But is it a gloom and doom scenario or a strategic shift? Find out


The US dollar’s position as the world's main reserve currency is slowly being undermined, with several countries shedding their holdings of US Treasury securities, once considered the safest asset. Amid this, economist Peter Schiff warned that the US economy is on the brink of “the biggest economic crisis of our lifetimes,” citing the rise in gold and silver as other factors. What really is the situation with the US dollar? Let's dive in. Peter Schiff's warning on US economy Schiff warned that the fall in treasury holdings and rise in gold and silver prices could send consumer prices, bond yields, and unemployment soaring in the US. Some of his predictions could be alarmist and should be taken with a pinch of salt, as Schiff is a well-known gold advocate and frequent critic of US monetary policy. Schiff's forecasts are not new; he has been discussing hyperinflation, gold price surges, and imminent dollar destruction for 15 years, most of which did not happen within his predicted timeframe or scale. Gold and silver prices are indeed rising Gold and silver prices fluctuate daily, and both reached record or near-record highs in recent years, with gold around $2,600–$2,700 per ounce in late 2025, and silver above $30–$35 per ounce. Geopolitical uncertainties, Federal Reserve activity, and inflation hedging are among the reasons. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-finance-the-dollar-hovers-near-two-month-lows-1765890227661/embed US Treasuries is a sign of trust in the dollar but who is trimming holdings? As the world’s primary reserve currency, the dollar is roughly 60 per cent of global reserves. Demand for US Treasuries remains strong. But foreign holdings of US Treasury securities - including bills, notes, and bonds - have slowly been declining, as tracked by the US Treasury Department’s Treasury International Capital (TIC) system. Total foreign holdings currently exceed $9 trillion, with the largest holders being Japan (around $1.1–1.2 trillion), followed by the UK (around $800–900 billion), and China (around $750–800 billion). Net inflows in recent months are primarily driven by private investors and some official institutions. Also read: How the US government shutdown will affect gold, dollar, bond yield China has been the most notable long-term reducer of US Treasury holdings, after peaking at around $1.3 trillion in the early 2010s. Its holdings have fallen to roughly $750–760 billion. Diversification into gold and other currencies is part of China’s effort to reduce reliance on dollar assets amid geopolitical tensions. Russia’s holdings fell sharply after 2022 due to sanctions following the Ukraine invasion, declining to under $2 billion from tens of billions before 2022. Saudi Arabia and some other oil exporters have occasionally reduced holdings for short-term capital needs and diversification. Switzerland, Germany, and Norway have also trimmed US Treasury holdings in recent months, as have smaller holders like Brazil and Vietnam. These reductions have not led to broader sell-offs, at least for now. In fact, Japan has increased its holdings to record levels of around $1.15 trillion as of 2025. The UK has risen to the second-largest holder of US Treasuries, surpassing China this year, with around $850–865 billion currently. India is reducing its US Treasury holdings India has gradually reduced its US Treasury securities over the past year as part of a broader diversification strategy by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Factors include US trade policies, diversification trends, and a preference for gold as a hedge against dollar volatility and inflation. Concerns over US fiscal debt, credit rating issues, and rising yields have also contributed. India's US treasury holdings had peaked in 2024 at $247 billion, but fell to around $220 billion by year-end. Yet, India remains among the top 20 foreign holders of US Treasuries. Also read: Indian rupee slips to all-time low of 90.72 against US dollar India is increasing its gold reserves The RBI has simultaneously increased gold reserves, adding dozens of tonnes in 2025, bringing total reserves to over 880 metric tonnes. Gold now accounts for roughly 14–15 per cent of the RBI’s reserves. Overall, India’s total foreign exchange reserves have remained robust at around $690–700 billion, adequate to cover a large share of imports and external liabilities. Unlike Japan and the UK, India and other BRICS nations have trimmed exposure, often in response to global uncertainties. India's foreign currency assets usually constitute about 80–85 per cent of total reserves, mostly in US dollar-denominated assets such as US Treasury securities, deposits, and sovereign bonds.

<p>US dollar may be facing a slow decline as the world's reserve currency, while gold and silver prices surge. Countries, including India, have trimmed US Treasury holdings. But is it a gloom and doom scenario or a strategic shift? Find out here<br>&nbsp;</p>

Is US dollar dying slowly? This economist thinks so as gold, silver surge, countries including India trim US Treasury holdings

<p>The US has said that Europe is unfairly targeting American companies with its digital tax rules and is preparing retaliation, according to multiple reports. &nbsp;Nearly half of OECD member states from Europe have implemented or proposed digital services taxes (DSTs). Compliance costs and penalties have increased significantly for US firms due to these laws and regulations. Ths US is now viewing fines against its tech firms as de facto tariffs on digital services and preparing to retaliate. Here is what you should know.</p><h2>What is digital tax?</h2><p>The EU collectively and some of its member states individually impose taxes on revenue earned by large tech firms from advertising, marketplaces and user data. The EU also has the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act that regulate how Big Tech firms operate, compete, and moderate content in the region. The DMA and DSA regulate gatekeepers and content moderation. The US has argued that these ar e trade barriers, disproportionately affecting American firms rather than European competitors.</p><p>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/potus-s-end-of-year-performance-report-card-trump-s-approval-rating-slips-to-39-1765939497912"> POTUS's end-of-year performance report card: Trump's approval rating slips to 39%</a></p><h2>How does digital tax affect American tech companies?</h2><p>Tech giants like Google, Meta, Amazon, Apple, and X face the major brunt of EU investigations and fines. Recent fines include €2.95 billion on Google, €500 mn on Apple, €200 mn on Meta, and €140 mn on X, as per European Commission records.</p><p>Besides financial penalties, most are facing ongoing legal cases and higher compliance costs. American officials say digital taxes reduce revenues earned by these companies in Europe and limit market access, undermining US competitiveness.&nbsp;</p><p>The Trump administration is painting these as equivalent to tariffs on digital services.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-goods-exports-rise-in-november-trump-s-tariff-gamble-backfired-1765897464938/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-goods-exports-rise-in-november-trump-s-tariff-gamble-backfired-1765897464938/embed</a></p><h2>Digital tax in EU: How will US retaliate?</h2><p>The Office of the US Trade Representative warned that it would use all available trade tools if the EU continues its policies. Countermeasures include fees or restrictions on European service providers operating in the United States, such as Spotify. Some European firms in consulting, logistics, software and manufacturing could also be potential targets. Specific companies like Accenture, Siemens, DHL could feel the heat. Possible tariffs and other trade actions would take place against countries adopting digital taxes on US firms.&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-introduce-resolution-to-end-trump-s-tariffs-on-india-1765597979819">US lawmakers introduce resolution to end Trump's tariffs on India</a></p><h2>US is trying to pressure Europe to roll back or modify tech regulations</h2><p>The dispute has increased US–EU trade tensions, even amid ongoing negotiations over broader economic cooperation and to address Trump tariffs. The EU and specific nations in the bloc argue that digital laws apply equally to all companies and refuse to weaken them. Similar threats from Trump administration had led Canada to rescind its DST in June.</p>

After the Trump tariff war, the US and European Union appear poised for another clash, this time over digital taxes and tech rules. The US has warned of fees and restrictions on European firms in response to EU action against US tech firms.


The US has said that Europe is unfairly targeting American companies with its digital tax rules and is preparing retaliation, according to multiple reports. Nearly half of OECD member states from Europe have implemented or proposed digital services taxes (DSTs). Compliance costs and penalties have increased significantly for US firms due to these laws and regulations. Ths US is now viewing fines against its tech firms as de facto tariffs on digital services and preparing to retaliate. Here is what you should know. What is digital tax? The EU collectively and some of its member states individually impose taxes on revenue earned by large tech firms from advertising, marketplaces and user data. The EU also has the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act that regulate how Big Tech firms operate, compete, and moderate content in the region. The DMA and DSA regulate gatekeepers and content moderation. The US has argued that these ar e trade barriers, disproportionately affecting American firms rather than European competitors. Also read: POTUS's end-of-year performance report card: Trump's approval rating slips to 39% How does digital tax affect American tech companies? Tech giants like Google, Meta, Amazon, Apple, and X face the major brunt of EU investigations and fines. Recent fines include €2.95 billion on Google, €500 mn on Apple, €200 mn on Meta, and €140 mn on X, as per European Commission records. Besides financial penalties, most are facing ongoing legal cases and higher compliance costs. American officials say digital taxes reduce revenues earned by these companies in Europe and limit market access, undermining US competitiveness. The Trump administration is painting these as equivalent to tariffs on digital services. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-goods-exports-rise-in-november-trump-s-tariff-gamble-backfired-1765897464938/embed Digital tax in EU: How will US retaliate? The Office of the US Trade Representative warned that it would use all available trade tools if the EU continues its policies. Countermeasures include fees or restrictions on European service providers operating in the United States, such as Spotify. Some European firms in consulting, logistics, software and manufacturing could also be potential targets. Specific companies like Accenture, Siemens, DHL could feel the heat. Possible tariffs and other trade actions would take place against countries adopting digital taxes on US firms. Also read: US lawmakers introduce resolution to end Trump's tariffs on India US is trying to pressure Europe to roll back or modify tech regulations The dispute has increased US–EU trade tensions, even amid ongoing negotiations over broader economic cooperation and to address Trump tariffs. The EU and specific nations in the bloc argue that digital laws apply equally to all companies and refuse to weaken them. Similar threats from Trump administration had led Canada to rescind its DST in June.

<p>After the Trump tariff war, the US and European Union appear poised for another clash, this time over digital taxes and tech rules. The US has warned of fees and restrictions on European companies in response to EU action against US tech firms.<br>&nbsp;</p>

After the Trump tariff war, digital tax on US tech firms is emerging as new conflict area with Europe. What is US threatening?

<p>Like it or hate it, AI has been firmly embedded in daily life in 2025, and the controversies surrounding it have become ubiquitous. From an allegedly antisemitic AI chatbot, to millions of pages of pirated books used to train large language models, to an AI model destroying its own database, there were major AI-related controversies almost every month. Here is a roundup of the most notable ones.</p><h2>AI robocalls in US election to Grok giving “antisemitic” answers</h2><p>The year started with allegations that AI-generated robocalls were used to influence voters during the US presidential election that was won by Donald Trump. The calls reportedly mimicked public figures’ voices and allegedly spread misinformation.&nbsp;</p><p>Political controversy was not limited to elections. In July, xAI’s Grok faced heavy criticism after a system prompt change reportedly encouraged “politically incorrect” responses. These included answers widely described as antisemitic, violent and offensive.</p><h2>Ransomware powered by AI models?</h2><p>In August, a controversial ransomware prototype was uncovered. PromptLock, identified by security researchers, was an AI-powered ransomware ‘proof of concept’ that demonstrated how locally run language models could be used to dynamically generate attack logic and even automate extortion. Although not deployed at scale, the ransomware that could be automated via AI was alarming for cybersecurity experts.</p><h2>Pirated books and a 1.5 billion dollar settlement</h2><p>AI startup Anthropic agreed to a 1.5 billion dollar settlement in a class-action lawsuit over the use of pirated content from books for training its language models. A group of authors had alleged large-scale copyright infringement. The settlement was among the largest to date related to AI training data.</p><h2>AI hits Hollywood workers, as Disney embraces Sora</h2><p>Trade unions and creatives in Hollywood reacted angrily after legacy media company Disney entered into a deal with AI startup OpenAI that would allow AI-generated videos of Disney characters via Sora model. Critics argued the partnership could undermine creative jobs and devalue Disney’s intellectual property through mass production of fan-generated “AI slop”.&nbsp;</p><p>The backlash came even as Disney almost simultaneously issued a cease-and-desist order to Google, accusing it of large-scale copyright infringement in AI training.</p><h2>Political and diplomatic deepfakes grow, AI agents sabotage their own systems</h2><p>Political and diplomatic deepfakes continued to proliferate throughout the year, complicating global relations and public trust. Meanwhile Replit's own AI coding agent deleted parts of its production databases during an automated operation.&nbsp;</p><p>This was not the only ‘system failure’. Grok AI reportedly publicised more than 300,000 conversations that users thought were private.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/open-ai-plans-1-4-tn-spend-on-computing-power-1764589595110/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/open-ai-plans-1-4-tn-spend-on-computing-power-1764589595110/embed</a></p><h2>Legacy industry's epic fail: Rehiring humans after AI bungled</h2><p>Several legacy industries experimented with AI but quietly reversed course. Financial institutions were among them, with Klarna acknowledging it had to rehire human customer service staff after its AI chatbot rollout led to higher call volumes, customer frustration and lower resolution rates, despite earlier claims of efficiency gains.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/yearender-2025-the-year-of-ai-humanoid-robots-agntic-ai-competition-and-policy-reform-what-did-you-miss-1765864185978">YEARENDER: 2025 , the year of AI - Humanoid robots, Agntic AI, competition and policy reform - What did you miss?</a></p><h2>The harms of AI: Lawsuits and human cost</h2><p>Multiple lawsuits alleged that AI systems encouraged self-harm and suicidal ideation among teenagers. Parents accused companies like OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, of exposing children to harmful advice and emotionally manipulative interactions. Ethical data use, job displacement, and environmental damage - particularly the energy demand and carbon footprint of large data centres - were also hotly debated.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-is-expanding-the-frontier-of-what-is-possible-says-microsoft-ceo-satya-nadella-1765638706782">AI is expanding the ‘frontier of what is possible’, says Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella</a></p><h2>AI regulation multiplied too: Taming the machines over deepfake and sexual content</h2><p>The year saw more than 1,000 AI-related bills introduced across states in the US, reflecting a shift towards decentralised regulation.&nbsp;</p><p>Several states moved to restrict or prohibit independent AI-driven medical diagnoses without human oversight. At the federal level, President Trump issued an executive order rescinding a number of earlier safety-focused AI rules, instead prioritising innovation and reducing regulatory barriers.&nbsp;</p><p>In Europe, the European Union’s AI Act provisions for general-purpose models came into effect in August.</p><p>Deepfake laws also proliferated in the US, with states enacting 68 new statutes, most of them focused on non-consensual sexual content and impersonation.</p>

The year 2025 exposed AI’s legal, ethical and social risks; from election robocalls to antisemitic chatbots, ransomware, pirated content for training and Hollywood backlash. Regulation struggled to keep pace with the mindboggling pace of AI developments. Here is a roundup


Like it or hate it, AI has been firmly embedded in daily life in 2025, and the controversies surrounding it have become ubiquitous. From an allegedly antisemitic AI chatbot, to millions of pages of pirated books used to train large language models, to an AI model destroying its own database, there were major AI-related controversies almost every month. Here is a roundup of the most notable ones. AI robocalls in US election to Grok giving “antisemitic” answers The year started with allegations that AI-generated robocalls were used to influence voters during the US presidential election that was won by Donald Trump. The calls reportedly mimicked public figures’ voices and allegedly spread misinformation. Political controversy was not limited to elections. In July, xAI’s Grok faced heavy criticism after a system prompt change reportedly encouraged “politically incorrect” responses. These included answers widely described as antisemitic, violent and offensive. Ransomware powered by AI models? In August, a controversial ransomware prototype was uncovered. PromptLock, identified by security researchers, was an AI-powered ransomware ‘proof of concept’ that demonstrated how locally run language models could be used to dynamically generate attack logic and even automate extortion. Although not deployed at scale, the ransomware that could be automated via AI was alarming for cybersecurity experts. Pirated books and a 1.5 billion dollar settlement AI startup Anthropic agreed to a 1.5 billion dollar settlement in a class-action lawsuit over the use of pirated content from books for training its language models. A group of authors had alleged large-scale copyright infringement. The settlement was among the largest to date related to AI training data. AI hits Hollywood workers, as Disney embraces Sora Trade unions and creatives in Hollywood reacted angrily after legacy media company Disney entered into a deal with AI startup OpenAI that would allow AI-generated videos of Disney characters via Sora model. Critics argued the partnership could undermine creative jobs and devalue Disney’s intellectual property through mass production of fan-generated “AI slop”. The backlash came even as Disney almost simultaneously issued a cease-and-desist order to Google, accusing it of large-scale copyright infringement in AI training. Political and diplomatic deepfakes grow, AI agents sabotage their own systems Political and diplomatic deepfakes continued to proliferate throughout the year, complicating global relations and public trust. Meanwhile Replit's own AI coding agent deleted parts of its production databases during an automated operation. This was not the only ‘system failure’. Grok AI reportedly publicised more than 300,000 conversations that users thought were private. https://www.wionews.com/videos/open-ai-plans-1-4-tn-spend-on-computing-power-1764589595110/embed Legacy industry's epic fail: Rehiring humans after AI bungled Several legacy industries experimented with AI but quietly reversed course. Financial institutions were among them, with Klarna acknowledging it had to rehire human customer service staff after its AI chatbot rollout led to higher call volumes, customer frustration and lower resolution rates, despite earlier claims of efficiency gains. Also read: YEARENDER: 2025 , the year of AI - Humanoid robots, Agntic AI, competition and policy reform - What did you miss? The harms of AI: Lawsuits and human cost Multiple lawsuits alleged that AI systems encouraged self-harm and suicidal ideation among teenagers. Parents accused companies like OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, of exposing children to harmful advice and emotionally manipulative interactions. Ethical data use, job displacement, and environmental damage - particularly the energy demand and carbon footprint of large data centres - were also hotly debated. Also read: AI is expanding the ‘frontier of what is possible’, says Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella AI regulation multiplied too: Taming the machines over deepfake and sexual content The year saw more than 1,000 AI-related bills introduced across states in the US, reflecting a shift towards decentralised regulation. Several states moved to restrict or prohibit independent AI-driven medical diagnoses without human oversight. At the federal level, President Trump issued an executive order rescinding a number of earlier safety-focused AI rules, instead prioritising innovation and reducing regulatory barriers. In Europe, the European Union’s AI Act provisions for general-purpose models came into effect in August. Deepfake laws also proliferated in the US, with states enacting 68 new statutes, most of them focused on non-consensual sexual content and impersonation.

<p>The year 2025 exposed AI’s legal, ethical and social risks; from election robocalls to antisemitic chatbots, ransomware, pirated content for training and Hollywood backlash. Regulation struggled to keep pace with the mindboggling pace of AI developments. Here is a recap</p>

YEARENDER 2025: Biggest AI controversies, from robocall elections to ‘antisemitic’ Grok, ransomware and deepfake

<p>After the Bondi Beach terror shooting, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday (Dec 15) vowed to push for harsher gun laws. Sunday's attack by father–son duo Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram targeted a Jewish Hanukkah festival event, leaving at least 16 people dead, including Sajid, and injuring another 42. While Albanese wants the gun laws tightened, Australia still has one of the world’s strictest gun restrictions. Here is more about it.</p><h2>What Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said about Bondi Beach shooting</h2><p>Condemning the attack as an “act of pure evil” and “antisemitic terrorism”, and a deliberate attack on Jewish Australians, Albanese called an emergency cabinet meeting on Monday, pushing for tougher gun laws. The proposals include limits on the number of firearms per licence and periodic reviews, and time limits on licences. It has been mooted that licences should not be issued in perpetuity. There is also a move for greater checks, noting that “people’s circumstances can change”, such as radicalisation, which appears to be behind the Bondi Beach attack.</p><p>Albanese said his government “is prepared to take whatever action is necessary”, including reforms for gun law uniformity across states.</p><p>New South Wales Premier Chris Minns questioned why non-farmers need high-powered weapons.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bondi-beach-terror-attack-pat-cummins-urge-people-to-donate-blood-as-australia-england-pay-tribute-to-victims-1765778811267">Bondi Beach terror attack: Captain Cummins urge people to donate blood as Ashes rivals pay tribute to victims</a></p><h2>Australian gun laws were tightened after shocking 1996 massacre</h2><p>Australia tightened its gun laws after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, in which a lone gunman in Tasmania killed 35 people and injured 23 in an attack using semi-automatic weapons. The then Prime Minister John Howard implemented the National Firearms Agreement, which banned semi-automatic rifles as well as pump-action shotguns.<br>Licences for guns were made mandatory, with only those with a “genuine reason” allowed to possess them, such as for farming or sport shooting. As per this law, unlike the US, self-defence is not a valid reason for applying for a gun. Registration is required for all firearms. A 28-day cooling-off period is required for any fresh purchases.&nbsp;</p><p>Over the years, Australia has held several government-run large-scale buybacks, in which more than 700,000 firearms were secured.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bondi-beach-terror-attack-what-is-hanukkah-why-is-the-jewish-festival-being-targeted-1765776194458">Bondi Beach terror attack: What is Hanukkah? Why is the Jewish festival being targeted?</a></p><h2>Australian gun reforms helped reduce firearm deaths</h2><p>Australia has very low gun homicide, with around 33 gun-linked killings recorded nationally in 2023–2024. The gun reforms effectively ended mass shootings, defined as more than four deaths excluding the perpetrator, till the Bondi Beach attack.&nbsp;</p><p>But registered firearm numbers are rising. Gun possession is on the rise, with more than 4 million registered firearms in circulation. This is higher per capita than pre-1996 levels, prompting doubts about the efficacy of enforcement and state-level variations. Sajid Akram, the 50-year-old behind the Bondi Beach attack with his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, is a legal owner of six firearms, according to police.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sydney-terror-attack-police-raid-home-of-pakistani-muslim-man-suspected-of-bondi-beach-shooting-1765731829767/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/sydney-terror-attack-police-raid-home-of-pakistani-muslim-man-suspected-of-bondi-beach-shooting-1765731829767/embed</a></p><h2>Mass shootings are rare in Australia</h2><p>Prior to 1996, there were 13 mass shootings in 18 years, but almost no such incidents since Port Arthur.</p><p>Smaller incidents were recorded, including the Darwin shooting of 2019, which killed four people, and the 2022 Wieambilla shooting, in which six were killed, including police.</p><p>In fact, the most shocking shooting associated with an Australian happened in neighbouring New Zealand, when Brenton Tarrant went on a rampage targeting Christchurch mosques on 15 March 2019. The Australian citizen, who killed 51 people and injured 40 at two mosques, had legally obtained firearms in New Zealand, which at the time had laxer laws on gun ownership. After Christchurch, New Zealand banned all semi-automatics and tightened its laws.</p><h2>Bondi Beach shooting ended a nearly 30-year track record on gun violence</h2><p>The Bondi Beach attack is Australia’s deadliest shooting since Port Arthur 1996. The attackers opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Archer Park. The victims included a rabbi and a 10-year-old girl, in an incident being probed as an antisemitic terrorist act.</p>

After the Bondi Beach terror shooting, PM Anthony Albanese vowed tougher gun laws despite Australia’s strict regime. Gun possession has increased, prompting debate over enforcement. Here is what you should know about Australia's gun laws

After the Bondi Beach terror shooting, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday (Dec 15) vowed to push for harsher gun laws. Sunday's attack by father–son duo Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram targeted a Jewish Hanukkah festival event, leaving at least 16 people dead, including Sajid, and injuring another 42. While Albanese wants the gun laws tightened, Australia still has one of the world’s strictest gun restrictions. Here is more about it. What Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said about Bondi Beach shooting Condemning the attack as an “act of pure evil” and “antisemitic terrorism”, and a deliberate attack on Jewish Australians, Albanese called an emergency cabinet meeting on Monday, pushing for tougher gun laws. The proposals include limits on the number of firearms per licence and periodic reviews, and time limits on licences. It has been mooted that licences should not be issued in perpetuity. There is also a move for greater checks, noting that “people’s circumstances can change”, such as radicalisation, which appears to be behind the Bondi Beach attack. Albanese said his government “is prepared to take whatever action is necessary”, including reforms for gun law uniformity across states. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns questioned why non-farmers need high-powered weapons. Also read: Bondi Beach terror attack: Captain Cummins urge people to donate blood as Ashes rivals pay tribute to victims Australian gun laws were tightened after shocking 1996 massacre Australia tightened its gun laws after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, in which a lone gunman in Tasmania killed 35 people and injured 23 in an attack using semi-automatic weapons. The then Prime Minister John Howard implemented the National Firearms Agreement, which banned semi-automatic rifles as well as pump-action shotguns. Licences for guns were made mandatory, with only those with a “genuine reason” allowed to possess them, such as for farming or sport shooting. As per this law, unlike the US, self-defence is not a valid reason for applying for a gun. Registration is required for all firearms. A 28-day cooling-off period is required for any fresh purchases. Over the years, Australia has held several government-run large-scale buybacks, in which more than 700,000 firearms were secured. Also read: Bondi Beach terror attack: What is Hanukkah? Why is the Jewish festival being targeted? Australian gun reforms helped reduce firearm deaths Australia has very low gun homicide, with around 33 gun-linked killings recorded nationally in 2023–2024. The gun reforms effectively ended mass shootings, defined as more than four deaths excluding the perpetrator, till the Bondi Beach attack. But registered firearm numbers are rising. Gun possession is on the rise, with more than 4 million registered firearms in circulation. This is higher per capita than pre-1996 levels, prompting doubts about the efficacy of enforcement and state-level variations. Sajid Akram, the 50-year-old behind the Bondi Beach attack with his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, is a legal owner of six firearms, according to police. https://www.wionews.com/videos/sydney-terror-attack-police-raid-home-of-pakistani-muslim-man-suspected-of-bondi-beach-shooting-1765731829767/embed Mass shootings are rare in Australia Prior to 1996, there were 13 mass shootings in 18 years, but almost no such incidents since Port Arthur. Smaller incidents were recorded, including the Darwin shooting of 2019, which killed four people, and the 2022 Wieambilla shooting, in which six were killed, including police. In fact, the most shocking shooting associated with an Australian happened in neighbouring New Zealand, when Brenton Tarrant went on a rampage targeting Christchurch mosques on 15 March 2019. The Australian citizen, who killed 51 people and injured 40 at two mosques, had legally obtained firearms in New Zealand, which at the time had laxer laws on gun ownership. After Christchurch, New Zealand banned all semi-automatics and tightened its laws. Bondi Beach shooting ended a nearly 30-year track record on gun violence The Bondi Beach attack is Australia’s deadliest shooting since Port Arthur 1996. The attackers opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Archer Park. The victims included a rabbi and a 10-year-old girl, in an incident being probed as an antisemitic terrorist act.

<p>After the Bondi Beach terror shooting, PM Anthony Albanese vowed tougher gun laws despite Australia’s strict regime. Gun possession has increased, prompting debate over enforcement. Here is what you should know about Australia's gun laws</p>

After Bondi Beach shooting, PM Albanese vows gun law reforms, but Australia has one of the toughest firearms restrictions. What went wrong?

<p>The father-and-son duo Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram unleashed mayhem on Bondi Beach in Australia’s Sydney in a gun attack on the occasion of Hanukkah that left at least 16 people dead, including Sajid, and injured 42 others. An improvised explosive device was reportedly found in a car associated with the attack, meaning the planned damage may have been bigger. The shooting on Sunday (Dec 14) is probably the largest attack targeting the Jewish festival in recent memory. It is being investigated as a terrorist incident with a motive of antisemitism. What is Hanukkah? Why is it symbolic for antisemites as a target for hate crimes?</p><h2>Hanukkah, the festival of lights of Jews</h2><p>Hanukkah or Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, lasts for eight days in the Jewish calendar, typically falling in November or December, close to the Christmas holidays. The festival marks the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the second century BC. The temple was rededicated after the Maccabean Revolt by the Jews against the Seleucid Empire, which had banned Jewish practices and desecrated the Temple.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bondi-beach-shooting-civilian-disarms-gunman-during-sydney-attack-1765772342051/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bondi-beach-shooting-civilian-disarms-gunman-during-sydney-attack-1765772342051/embed</a></p><h2>The miracle of the oil at Hanukkah</h2><p>The main myth behind the eight-day celebration has to do with the “miracle of the oil that burned for eight days”. When the Maccabees reclaimed and purified the Second Temple, the purified oil to light the holy menorah — the seven-branched candelabrum — was expected to last for only one day, but it burned bright for eight days. Therefore, Hanukkah lasts for eight days, when Jews light the nine-branched menorah, also known as a chanukiah, one extra candle each night, plus a helper candle. Other activities during the festival include reciting blessings, playing the dreidel, and eating oil-fried foods like latkes or potato pancakes and sufganiyot or jelly doughnuts.</p><p>Symbolising the victory of light over darkness, the Hanukkah festival marks religious freedom and Jewish resilience amid adversity.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/father-and-son-behind-bondi-beach-attack-that-targeted-the-jewish-community-1765756840634">Father and son behind Bondi Beach attack that ‘targeted the Jewish community’</a></p><h2>Hanukkah is a regular target of antisemitic attacks</h2><p>The reason for the targeting of Hanukkah is that events of the festival are often held in the open, with public menorah lightings and gatherings. These are highly visible symbols of Jewish identity and pride. The celebrations are encouraged and promoted by Chabad and other Jewish organisations to publicise the miracle of the oil. The open nature of these celebrations makes Hanukkah a vulnerable target for antisemitic attacks, targeting its core message of Jewish victory over assimilation and oppression.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistani-nationals-links-to-islamic-state-what-we-know-about-bondi-beach-shooters-sajid-and-naveed-akram-1765765119824">Pakistani nationals, links to Islamic State: What we know about Bondi beach shooters Sajid and Naveed Akram</a></p><h2>Hanukkah attacks part of a rise in global antisemitism</h2><p>Antisemitic incidents have grown particularly since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, which led to the Gaza war. There have been several vandalism incidents, disruptions of events, and violent assaults.&nbsp;</p><p>On 28 December 2019 in New York, a man wielding a machete attacked a Hanukkah celebration at a rabbi’s home in Monsey, New York, stabbing five people and killing one.</p><p>Numerous vandalisations and disruptions have occurred: menorahs have been smashed, events interrupted by protesters shouting slurs, or graffiti near displays. Public menorahs have been toppled or defaced in the US, Canada and Europe, mostly by those with anti-Israel sentiment that conflated Judaism with Zionism.</p><h2>The Bondi Beach attack targeted a public Hanukkah celebration</h2><p>The Bondi Beach attack targeted a “Chanukah by the Sea” event, organised by Chabad of Bondi. The event was being attended by around 1,000 people for menorah lighting and festivities when the attackers started shooting indiscriminately at the crowd, leaving a rabbi and a child among the dead.</p><p>The Bondi Beach attack is Australia’s deadliest shooting in decades, prompting increased security at Hanukkah events worldwide.</p>

Bondi Beach terror attack targeted a public Hanukkah celebration. The choice was symbolic: Hanukkah represents victory of light over darkness. The Australian shooting is part of rising global antisemitism 


The father-and-son duo Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram unleashed mayhem on Bondi Beach in Australia’s Sydney in a gun attack on the occasion of Hanukkah that left at least 16 people dead, including Sajid, and injured 42 others. An improvised explosive device was reportedly found in a car associated with the attack, meaning the planned damage may have been bigger. The shooting on Sunday (Dec 14) is probably the largest attack targeting the Jewish festival in recent memory. It is being investigated as a terrorist incident with a motive of antisemitism. What is Hanukkah? Why is it symbolic for antisemites as a target for hate crimes? Hanukkah, the festival of lights of Jews Hanukkah or Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, lasts for eight days in the Jewish calendar, typically falling in November or December, close to the Christmas holidays. The festival marks the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the second century BC. The temple was rededicated after the Maccabean Revolt by the Jews against the Seleucid Empire, which had banned Jewish practices and desecrated the Temple. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bondi-beach-shooting-civilian-disarms-gunman-during-sydney-attack-1765772342051/embed The miracle of the oil at Hanukkah The main myth behind the eight-day celebration has to do with the “miracle of the oil that burned for eight days”. When the Maccabees reclaimed and purified the Second Temple, the purified oil to light the holy menorah — the seven-branched candelabrum — was expected to last for only one day, but it burned bright for eight days. Therefore, Hanukkah lasts for eight days, when Jews light the nine-branched menorah, also known as a chanukiah, one extra candle each night, plus a helper candle. Other activities during the festival include reciting blessings, playing the dreidel, and eating oil-fried foods like latkes or potato pancakes and sufganiyot or jelly doughnuts. Symbolising the victory of light over darkness, the Hanukkah festival marks religious freedom and Jewish resilience amid adversity. Also read: Father and son behind Bondi Beach attack that ‘targeted the Jewish community’ Hanukkah is a regular target of antisemitic attacks The reason for the targeting of Hanukkah is that events of the festival are often held in the open, with public menorah lightings and gatherings. These are highly visible symbols of Jewish identity and pride. The celebrations are encouraged and promoted by Chabad and other Jewish organisations to publicise the miracle of the oil. The open nature of these celebrations makes Hanukkah a vulnerable target for antisemitic attacks, targeting its core message of Jewish victory over assimilation and oppression. Also read: Pakistani nationals, links to Islamic State: What we know about Bondi beach shooters Sajid and Naveed Akram Hanukkah attacks part of a rise in global antisemitism Antisemitic incidents have grown particularly since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, which led to the Gaza war. There have been several vandalism incidents, disruptions of events, and violent assaults. On 28 December 2019 in New York, a man wielding a machete attacked a Hanukkah celebration at a rabbi’s home in Monsey, New York, stabbing five people and killing one. Numerous vandalisations and disruptions have occurred: menorahs have been smashed, events interrupted by protesters shouting slurs, or graffiti near displays. Public menorahs have been toppled or defaced in the US, Canada and Europe, mostly by those with anti-Israel sentiment that conflated Judaism with Zionism. The Bondi Beach attack targeted a public Hanukkah celebration The Bondi Beach attack targeted a “Chanukah by the Sea” event, organised by Chabad of Bondi. The event was being attended by around 1,000 people for menorah lighting and festivities when the attackers started shooting indiscriminately at the crowd, leaving a rabbi and a child among the dead. The Bondi Beach attack is Australia’s deadliest shooting in decades, prompting increased security at Hanukkah events worldwide.

<p>Bondi Beach terror attack targeted a public Hanukkah celebration. The choice was symbolic: Hanukkah represents victory of light over darkness. The Australian shooting is part of rising global antisemitism</p>

Bondi Beach terror attack: What is Hanukkah? Why is the Jewish festival being targeted?

<p>If you are not a Rajinikanth fan, close this page now. Or maybe not; after reading this, you might also become a fan of the South Indian superstar. As someone who learned the Tamil language only to be able to better understand Rajinikanth films, my reasons for loving him are probably different from yours. On his 75th birthday, I am asking the same question that both friends and family asked me over three decades: Why do I love Rajinikanth?</p><h2>I became a Rajinikanth fan from <i>Thalapathi</i></h2><p>For me, the start of watching Rajini films was not from one of the typical "Tamil padam" drivel that milked his stardom from the late 1970s onwards. It was from <i>Thalapathi</i>, the 1991 thriller directed by veteran Mani Ratnam, a retelling of the Karna story from the Indian epic Mahabharata. I was 15. Rajinikanth was 41, already in the middle phase of his career and at the peak of his stardom, even as his hairline was receding. <i>Thalapathi</i> went on to become a classic of Tamil cinema, proven again by the fact that Gen Z audiences were dancing in theatres when the film re-released a few months ago. From 1991 onwards, I became interested not only in Rajinikanth’s filmography, but also in the Rajinikanth story, while catching up on his older movies and lining up for the new ones.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/happy-birthday-rajinikanth-from-a-bus-conductor-to-superstar-journey-of-thalaiva-in-pics-1765513102523">Happy birthday Rajinikanth: From a bus conductor to superstar - journey of Thalaiva | In pics</a></p><h2>The unlikely superstar: How Rajinikanth represented the dark-skinned masses</h2><p>Rajinikanth has been candid that his stardom as an unlikely occurrence, often cracking self-deprecating jokes about his dark skin, face, and looks, even admitting that he had only a fixed set of mannerisms and styles that he repeated in most films. But if you look at how he appears on screen, he was above the average Tamil or south Indian: Dressing like no Tamil would, from leather vests to boots to stylish suits. To the average Tamil and South Indian, Rajinikanth became what was possible: He was their aspirational superstar. Skin colour, scars, and marks on the face didn’t matter as long as he exuded confidence and screen presence. To fans like me, he taught us to dream beyond our circumstances, without knowing he was doing so.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/rajinikanth-birthday-pm-modi-kamal-haasan-and-others-wish-the-actor-1765521802147">75 years of a remarkable life! PM Modi, Kamal Haasan and others wish Rajinikanth on his birthday</a></p><h2>Rajinikanth was always the class warrior</h2><p>Most of the films of Rajinikanth, irrespective of the specific storyline, had an underlying subtext: a hero who is rejected by the system, fights back, and becomes victorious, through strategy and street fights. The Rajini character always stayed with the people who were seated in the front rows of his theatres. He was a mass hero, even though the classes liked him too. His was a masculinity and heroism both overstated and down to earth, with at least one song in most of his films referring to the Tamil people as 'Gods' who made him rule as their matinee demigod.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajnikanth-announces-sequel-to-1999-blockbuster-padayappa-original-film-to-re-release-on-his-75th-birthday-1765285444638">Rajnikanth announces sequel to 1999 blockbuster Padayappa; original film to re-release on his 75th birthday</a></p><h2>Rajinikanth, the Muhammad Ali of Tamil cinema: It was not always a bed of roses</h2><p>Many of Rajinikanth’s films flopped, even forcing him to spend money from his own pocket to recoup losses for producers and distributors. He was written off several times after failures, which include <i>Baba</i> (2002), <i>Kuselan </i>(2008), <i>Lingaa</i> (2014), <i>Darbar </i>(2020), and <i>Annaatthe</i> (2021). But he was like boxing’s Muhammad Ali, willing to take the punches and still stand up for another round. While Rajini continues to get the "initial" – the first few days of run ensured by his fan following – the rest of a film’s success depends on whether it appeals to a wider audience. And Rajini was always accepting of the people's verdict.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thalaivar-marks-50-years-in-cinema-with-padayappa-re-release-1765521255319/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/thalaivar-marks-50-years-in-cinema-with-padayappa-re-release-1765521255319/embed</a></p><h2>Rajinikanth’s legacy is a truly pan-India story</h2><p>Rajinikanth’s is a truly pan-Indian story and a true testament to what he said in his Dadasaheb Phalke Award acceptance speech in 2021: "Miracles do happen."</p><p>He was born Shivaji Rao Gaikwad on 12 December 1950 in Bangalore (now Bengaluru) to a Marathi family. Who would have thought that a boy with roots in the western Maharastra state, raised in the state of Karnataka, would rule as the longstanding superstar of another southern state Tamil Nadu, for nearly 50 years? Contrast that with the North vs South debate raging in Indian cinema in the past few years. Tamils first embraced M. G. Ramachandran, who had roots in Kerala, as their mass star, and continued that with Rajinikanth. Recently, politically motivated rhetoric has tried to argue that Rajinikanth is not "Tamil enough", but that hasn’t dissuaded anyone who knows his legacy.&nbsp;<br>In the mid-2010s, Rajinikanth suddenly became more famous in the north, though he had acted in Hindi films, including major hits like <i>Hum </i>in the past. But this fame was also tinged with north-south racism, with social media memes showing him with superpowers and placing him inside the usual South Indian stereotypes. As his films got dubbed in Hindi, some of them performed even better than Bollywood releases. Particularly since <i>Sivaji: The Boss </i>and <i>Enthiran</i>, his films began releasing pan-India. That growth only accelerated when OTT releases became available in multiple languages, which partly explains the success of his recent major hit, <i>Jailer </i>(2023).</p><h2>Rajini’s attractive off-screen persona: Down to earth, no wig, no make-up, speaking from the heart</h2><p>Though there was a tinge of bravado, and even arrogance, during public appearances during earlier parts of his stardom, Rajinikanth maintained a down-to-earth persona in later years. He never hid his poor origins. I have watched more Rajinikanth speeches than his films. At these public events, he often narrated his story of going from a bus conductor of Bangalore Transport Service, to friends collecting funds to send him to Madras Film Institute in 1973, to wanting to achieve growth and responding to slights in real life.&nbsp;<br>At his peak, Rajini started going partially bald in the 1990s. That would have been devastating for an actor known for stylishly flicking his mane in every film. But he embraced his reality and appeared in public without a wig, or much make-up. His interactions with both his fan base who call him 'Thalaivar' or leader, as well as the media, have almost always been polite, bordering on shy, as opposed to many of his peers and juniors in indian cinema, south or north.</p><h2>Rajinikanth’s time-tested appeal comes from his willingness to change and adapt</h2><p>Even in the 1990s, Rajini played roles of people much older than his own age at the time. In <i>Annamalai</i>, <i>Pedarayudu</i>, <i>Valli</i>, and <i>Padayappa</i>, he transitioned from young to middle-aged or elderly characters. He was always willing to collaborate with projects in other languages, from Hindi to Telugu to Kannada, even doing smaller or side roles (though interestingly, he never acted in a Malayalam film).&nbsp;<br>That's probably because he started small, playing a rake in <i>Apoorva Raagangal </i>(1975), having been introduced to cinema by the legendary director K Balachander. And in an industry known for star rivalries, he maintained a long friendship with the star of his first film, Kamal Hassan, the other superstar of Tamil cinema.</p><p>Rajini has also been willing to work with young directors of each era, from Shankar (<i>Enthiran</i>, <i>Sivaji the Boss</i>) to Nelson (<i>Jailer</i>). And in Nelson’s telling, he always addresses the director as "sir".</p><h2>An 'addict' who still has a clean image: Rajini has been open about his vices</h2><p>Rajinikanth has openly talked about his bad habits – cigarettes (though flipping them stylishly is his hallmark in many films) - and alcohol. Rajini has a spiritual side, often talking about his gurus and inspirations like Raghavendra Swamy, Ramana Maharshi, and Mahavatar Babaji, and paying homage in the 2002 film <i>Baba</i>. He has engaged in self-reflection and self-reform as much as he addressed social and political issues, from the Kaveri water row, to the famous clashes with the late Jayalalithaa, a fellow actress, AIADMK leader and former Tamil Nadu chief minister.</p><h2>Rajini clicks because he keeps it real, off-screen</h2><p>Rajinikanth, as I mentioned, has not always been a success story. &nbsp;Some of his films bombed at the box office even recently. He attempted to wade into politics twice, trying to mobilise his massive fan clubs. But both times, Rajinikanth failed. He was open about it and accepted his failures.<br>His health has not always been perfect, and he has never hidden that from the people.</p><p>Balachander saw something intense in Rajini's eyes. To this day, his fans - like me - see something too, in spite of his advancing age.<br>These are among the reasons why I like Rajinikanth. What about you?</p>

Rajinikanth fans are celebrating his 75th birthday. Here is a personal reflection on why the Tamil superstar inspires different fans differently, from masses to classes, from south to north of India.

If you are not a Rajinikanth fan, close this page now. Or maybe not; after reading this, you might also become a fan of the South Indian superstar. As someone who learned the Tamil language only to be able to better understand Rajinikanth films, my reasons for loving him are probably different from yours. On his 75th birthday, I am asking the same question that both friends and family asked me over three decades: Why do I love Rajinikanth? I became a Rajinikanth fan from Thalapathi For me, the start of watching Rajini films was not from one of the typical "Tamil padam" drivel that milked his stardom from the late 1970s onwards. It was from Thalapathi, the 1991 thriller directed by veteran Mani Ratnam, a retelling of the Karna story from the Indian epic Mahabharata. I was 15. Rajinikanth was 41, already in the middle phase of his career and at the peak of his stardom, even as his hairline was receding. Thalapathi went on to become a classic of Tamil cinema, proven again by the fact that Gen Z audiences were dancing in theatres when the film re-released a few months ago. From 1991 onwards, I became interested not only in Rajinikanth’s filmography, but also in the Rajinikanth story, while catching up on his older movies and lining up for the new ones. Also read: Happy birthday Rajinikanth: From a bus conductor to superstar - journey of Thalaiva | In pics The unlikely superstar: How Rajinikanth represented the dark-skinned masses Rajinikanth has been candid that his stardom as an unlikely occurrence, often cracking self-deprecating jokes about his dark skin, face, and looks, even admitting that he had only a fixed set of mannerisms and styles that he repeated in most films. But if you look at how he appears on screen, he was above the average Tamil or south Indian: Dressing like no Tamil would, from leather vests to boots to stylish suits. To the average Tamil and South Indian, Rajinikanth became what was possible: He was their aspirational superstar. Skin colour, scars, and marks on the face didn’t matter as long as he exuded confidence and screen presence. To fans like me, he taught us to dream beyond our circumstances, without knowing he was doing so. Also read: 75 years of a remarkable life! PM Modi, Kamal Haasan and others wish Rajinikanth on his birthday Rajinikanth was always the class warrior Most of the films of Rajinikanth, irrespective of the specific storyline, had an underlying subtext: a hero who is rejected by the system, fights back, and becomes victorious, through strategy and street fights. The Rajini character always stayed with the people who were seated in the front rows of his theatres. He was a mass hero, even though the classes liked him too. His was a masculinity and heroism both overstated and down to earth, with at least one song in most of his films referring to the Tamil people as 'Gods' who made him rule as their matinee demigod. Also read: Rajnikanth announces sequel to 1999 blockbuster Padayappa; original film to re-release on his 75th birthday Rajinikanth, the Muhammad Ali of Tamil cinema: It was not always a bed of roses Many of Rajinikanth’s films flopped, even forcing him to spend money from his own pocket to recoup losses for producers and distributors. He was written off several times after failures, which include Baba (2002), Kuselan (2008), Lingaa (2014), Darbar (2020), and Annaatthe (2021). But he was like boxing’s Muhammad Ali, willing to take the punches and still stand up for another round. While Rajini continues to get the "initial" – the first few days of run ensured by his fan following – the rest of a film’s success depends on whether it appeals to a wider audience. And Rajini was always accepting of the people's verdict. https://www.wionews.com/videos/thalaivar-marks-50-years-in-cinema-with-padayappa-re-release-1765521255319/embed Rajinikanth’s legacy is a truly pan-India story Rajinikanth’s is a truly pan-Indian story and a true testament to what he said in his Dadasaheb Phalke Award acceptance speech in 2021: "Miracles do happen." He was born Shivaji Rao Gaikwad on 12 December 1950 in Bangalore (now Bengaluru) to a Marathi family. Who would have thought that a boy with roots in the western Maharastra state, raised in the state of Karnataka, would rule as the longstanding superstar of another southern state Tamil Nadu, for nearly 50 years? Contrast that with the North vs South debate raging in Indian cinema in the past few years. Tamils first embraced M. G. Ramachandran, who had roots in Kerala, as their mass star, and continued that with Rajinikanth. Recently, politically motivated rhetoric has tried to argue that Rajinikanth is not "Tamil enough", but that hasn’t dissuaded anyone who knows his legacy. In the mid-2010s, Rajinikanth suddenly became more famous in the north, though he had acted in Hindi films, including major hits like Hum in the past. But this fame was also tinged with north-south racism, with social media memes showing him with superpowers and placing him inside the usual South Indian stereotypes. As his films got dubbed in Hindi, some of them performed even better than Bollywood releases. Particularly since Sivaji: The Boss and Enthiran, his films began releasing pan-India. That growth only accelerated when OTT releases became available in multiple languages, which partly explains the success of his recent major hit, Jailer (2023). Rajini’s attractive off-screen persona: Down to earth, no wig, no make-up, speaking from the heart Though there was a tinge of bravado, and even arrogance, during public appearances during earlier parts of his stardom, Rajinikanth maintained a down-to-earth persona in later years. He never hid his poor origins. I have watched more Rajinikanth speeches than his films. At these public events, he often narrated his story of going from a bus conductor of Bangalore Transport Service, to friends collecting funds to send him to Madras Film Institute in 1973, to wanting to achieve growth and responding to slights in real life. At his peak, Rajini started going partially bald in the 1990s. That would have been devastating for an actor known for stylishly flicking his mane in every film. But he embraced his reality and appeared in public without a wig, or much make-up. His interactions with both his fan base who call him 'Thalaivar' or leader, as well as the media, have almost always been polite, bordering on shy, as opposed to many of his peers and juniors in indian cinema, south or north. Rajinikanth’s time-tested appeal comes from his willingness to change and adapt Even in the 1990s, Rajini played roles of people much older than his own age at the time. In Annamalai, Pedarayudu, Valli, and Padayappa, he transitioned from young to middle-aged or elderly characters. He was always willing to collaborate with projects in other languages, from Hindi to Telugu to Kannada, even doing smaller or side roles (though interestingly, he never acted in a Malayalam film). That's probably because he started small, playing a rake in Apoorva Raagangal (1975), having been introduced to cinema by the legendary director K Balachander. And in an industry known for star rivalries, he maintained a long friendship with the star of his first film, Kamal Hassan, the other superstar of Tamil cinema. Rajini has also been willing to work with young directors of each era, from Shankar (Enthiran, Sivaji the Boss) to Nelson (Jailer). And in Nelson’s telling, he always addresses the director as "sir". An 'addict' who still has a clean image: Rajini has been open about his vices Rajinikanth has openly talked about his bad habits – cigarettes (though flipping them stylishly is his hallmark in many films) - and alcohol. Rajini has a spiritual side, often talking about his gurus and inspirations like Raghavendra Swamy, Ramana Maharshi, and Mahavatar Babaji, and paying homage in the 2002 film Baba. He has engaged in self-reflection and self-reform as much as he addressed social and political issues, from the Kaveri water row, to the famous clashes with the late Jayalalithaa, a fellow actress, AIADMK leader and former Tamil Nadu chief minister. Rajini clicks because he keeps it real, off-screen Rajinikanth, as I mentioned, has not always been a success story. Some of his films bombed at the box office even recently. He attempted to wade into politics twice, trying to mobilise his massive fan clubs. But both times, Rajinikanth failed. He was open about it and accepted his failures. His health has not always been perfect, and he has never hidden that from the people. Balachander saw something intense in Rajini's eyes. To this day, his fans - like me - see something too, in spite of his advancing age. These are among the reasons why I like Rajinikanth. What about you?

<p>Rajinikanth fans are celebrating his 75th birthday. Here is a personal reflection on why the Tamil superstar inspires different fans differently, from the masses to the classes, from south to north of India.</p>

Why I love Rajinikanth is different from why you love Rajinikanth: A lifelong fan dissects his star craze for ‘Thalaivar'

<p>US President Donald Trump is planning to direct federal agencies to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act in an executive order that could come as early as next week, reports said. The White House has not confirmed it, but reports citing officials said the decision is almost certain. What will change?</p><h2>What marijuana’s classification from Schedule I to Schedule III would mean</h2><p>Since 1970, marijuana has been classified as a Schedule I drug, placing it alongside heroin and LSD as having a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. But several states have allowed adult recreational use of marijuana, as well as its medical use, mainly as a pain killer. Trump’s order, reportedly, would move it to Schedule III, which also includes ketamine, anabolic steroids, and Tylenol with codeine.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-green-light-for-medical-marijuana-in-thai-legislative-overhaul-760536/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-green-light-for-medical-marijuana-in-thai-legislative-overhaul-760536/embed</a></p><h2>Rescheduling would acknowledge marijuana’s medical value</h2><p>Trump's order, if it happens, would acknowledge the medical use of marijuana with a moderate to low dependence risk. The federal order could affect state laws that still criminalise the recreational use of cannabis. Rescheduling would reduce federal barriers to research and allow clinical trials with fewer restrictions. It could also create a boom in cannabis businesses by allowing them normal tax deductions, rather than being restricted under IRS Section 280E, which affects companies negatively.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cannabis-alcohol-study-california-sober-brown-university-1763730680027">Does cannabis help with alcoholism? Researchers found surprising results</a></p><h2>Regulated cannabis sector is already valued at 32 billion dollars</h2><p>The Schedule III status could help businesses engaged in both the recreational and medical use of cannabis. Note that growing cannabis is still an underground business in several parts of the US and remains a punishable offence. The rescheduling would mean that banks and other financial institutions can work with cannabis businesses, subject to relevant legislation.</p><h2>Will rescheduling legalise or decriminalise recreational marijuana nationally?</h2><p>This is unlikely as the Trump order would not be able to authorise adult-use cannabis in nearly half of the 50 states where it remains prohibited. The order would not permit interstate marijuana commerce or remove federal penalties for possession or use outside a medical context. State-licensed dispensaries of medical marijuana might not get federal protection to operate, either.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-planning-to-reclassify-marijuana-as-less-dangerous-drug-on-donor-firms-demand-report-1754749698482">Trump planning to reclassify marijuana as less dangerous drug: Report</a></p><h2>What is the status of marijuana in the US?</h2><p>Despite its widely known use in both recreation and medicine, America has had a conflicted relationship with the herb. Adult recreational use is allowed in 24 states besides the District of Columbia. Forty states allow medical marijuana. In some states, it is still a civil offence to possess marijuana beyond statutory limits. States like Idaho and Kansas continue to prohibit all marijuana use, medical or recreational.</p><h2>Will rescheduling override state policies on marijuana?</h2><p>It is highly unlikely, as states that permit recreational cannabis would continue operating under state authority. Eventually, the US Congress would have to pass legislation for nationwide changes to take effect.</p><h2>How the marijuana status kept changing</h2><p>In 2022, Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden directed federal agencies to review marijuana’s classification. In 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services recommended moving the drug to Schedule III, and the Drug Enforcement Administration proposed the change in 2024. Trump is basically acting on these recommendations.</p><h2>Reactions to reports of Trump order on marijuana</h2><p>Cannabis stocks rose up to 15 per cent on reports of Trump’s plans to finalise rescheduling.<br>Schedule III classification would be significant for taxation and research purposes. But critics warn about health concerns, including youth mental health risks and impaired driving leading to accidents.</p>

Trump is likely to issue an order to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. This would be the biggest federal shift on hemp in 50 years. What will change, and what won't?

US President Donald Trump is planning to direct federal agencies to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act in an executive order that could come as early as next week, reports said. The White House has not confirmed it, but reports citing officials said the decision is almost certain. What will change? What marijuana’s classification from Schedule I to Schedule III would mean Since 1970, marijuana has been classified as a Schedule I drug, placing it alongside heroin and LSD as having a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. But several states have allowed adult recreational use of marijuana, as well as its medical use, mainly as a pain killer. Trump’s order, reportedly, would move it to Schedule III, which also includes ketamine, anabolic steroids, and Tylenol with codeine. https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-green-light-for-medical-marijuana-in-thai-legislative-overhaul-760536/embed Rescheduling would acknowledge marijuana’s medical value Trump's order, if it happens, would acknowledge the medical use of marijuana with a moderate to low dependence risk. The federal order could affect state laws that still criminalise the recreational use of cannabis. Rescheduling would reduce federal barriers to research and allow clinical trials with fewer restrictions. It could also create a boom in cannabis businesses by allowing them normal tax deductions, rather than being restricted under IRS Section 280E, which affects companies negatively. Also read: Does cannabis help with alcoholism? Researchers found surprising results Regulated cannabis sector is already valued at 32 billion dollars The Schedule III status could help businesses engaged in both the recreational and medical use of cannabis. Note that growing cannabis is still an underground business in several parts of the US and remains a punishable offence. The rescheduling would mean that banks and other financial institutions can work with cannabis businesses, subject to relevant legislation. Will rescheduling legalise or decriminalise recreational marijuana nationally? This is unlikely as the Trump order would not be able to authorise adult-use cannabis in nearly half of the 50 states where it remains prohibited. The order would not permit interstate marijuana commerce or remove federal penalties for possession or use outside a medical context. State-licensed dispensaries of medical marijuana might not get federal protection to operate, either. Also read: Trump planning to reclassify marijuana as less dangerous drug: Report What is the status of marijuana in the US? Despite its widely known use in both recreation and medicine, America has had a conflicted relationship with the herb. Adult recreational use is allowed in 24 states besides the District of Columbia. Forty states allow medical marijuana. In some states, it is still a civil offence to possess marijuana beyond statutory limits. States like Idaho and Kansas continue to prohibit all marijuana use, medical or recreational. Will rescheduling override state policies on marijuana? It is highly unlikely, as states that permit recreational cannabis would continue operating under state authority. Eventually, the US Congress would have to pass legislation for nationwide changes to take effect. How the marijuana status kept changing In 2022, Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden directed federal agencies to review marijuana’s classification. In 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services recommended moving the drug to Schedule III, and the Drug Enforcement Administration proposed the change in 2024. Trump is basically acting on these recommendations. Reactions to reports of Trump order on marijuana Cannabis stocks rose up to 15 per cent on reports of Trump’s plans to finalise rescheduling. Schedule III classification would be significant for taxation and research purposes. But critics warn about health concerns, including youth mental health risks and impaired driving leading to accidents.

<p>Trump is likely to issue an order to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. This would be the biggest federal shift on hemp in 50 years. What will change, and what won't?</p>

Trump order on marijuana will reclassify it for first time in 50 years, say reports. What will change?

<p>Akshaye Khanna and his aura are getting lots of love from a new generation of audiences, many of whom probably don’t know he has been around in Bollywood for nearly three decades. The son of legendary actor Vinod Khanna started his career in 1997 but took several breaks and sabbaticals, as his flops and early baldness became burdens. Here is a snapshot of his career before the current hype surrounding his portrayal of a Pakistani gangster in the Ranveer Singh-starrer <i>Dhurandhar.</i></p><h2>Khanna has acted in around 40 films&nbsp;</h2><p>Since his 1997 debut as the hero of <i>Himalaya Putra</i>, Khanna has worked across thrillers, dramas, and comedies. The winner of two Filmfare Awards (Best Male Debut for <i>Border</i> in 1997 and Best Supporting Actor for <i>Dil Chahta Hai</i> in 2001), he also earned several nominations for roles ranging from negative to supporting characters. His filmography shows phases of high output and deliberate breaks as he prioritised quality over quantity. His major “comeback” was in early 2025 with <i>Chhaava</i>, in which he was almost unrecognisable under heavy make-up while portraying the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. He ended the year with another bang, playing Pakistani gangster Rehman Dakait in <i>Dhurandhar</i>.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/akshaye-khanna-s-peak-aura-dhurandhar-star-s-net-worth-unmatched-legacy-and-masterclass-performance-as-rehman-dakait-1765283073330">Akshaye Khanna's peak aura: Dhurandhar star's net worth, unmatched legacy and masterclass performance as Rehman Dakait</a></p><h2>But why was Akshaye Khanna absent from Bollywood for so long? Phases of career</h2><p>Khanna saw a mid-career dip when several of his films did not work at the box office. He took intentional breaks before returning to mature, character-driven roles. His debut phase was explosive, with nine films, particularly establishing him through <i>Border </i>and <i>Taal</i>. While he had no releases in 2000, Khanna reached the peak of his versatility between 2001 and 2008, featuring in 15 films including multi-starrer hits like <i>Dil Chahta Hai</i>, <i>Race</i>, and <i>Humraaz</i>. This period saw him slowly move away from only lead roles, instead taking on supporting and antagonist characters.</p><p>Becoming selective, he had a gap year in 2005. But his mid-career dip in 2009–2012 came with the flop of most of his eight films including <i>Shortkut</i> and <i>Gali Gali Chor Hai</i>.</p><p>Akshaye went into a major four-year sabbatical in 2013–2015, which he later described as “traumatic”.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/viral-how-akshaye-khanna-scored-a-bobby-deol-style-jamal-kodu-moment-with-dhurandhar-s-fa9la-1765357599406">Viral | How Akshaye Khanna scored a Bobby Deol-style Jamal Kodu moment with Dhurandhar's FA9LA</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Between 2016 and 2022 he did only eight films but began gaining attention again for his performances, particularly in<i> Mom</i>, <i>Drishyam 2</i>, and <i>Section 375</i>, though there were no releases in 2018.</p><p>Khanna again went into a two-year hiatus in 2023–2024, preferring only quality projects. The back-to-back critical and commercial successes of <i>Chhaava</i> and <i>Dhurandhar</i> have effectively positioned him as the real Bollywood superstar of 2025, although not in traditional lead roles.</p><h2>What did Akshaye Khanna say about not getting work?</h2><p>In the initial gap years, Khanna framed the breaks as deliberate choices rather than failures. But in later interviews, he spoke candidly about the emotional toll of these breaks, even as he refused to engage in constant hustle. On his 2013–2015 break after flops, he said, “Who wants to sit at home? I love to be on set.”</p><p>Khanna, who is not married, always preferred a low-key life, away from Mumbai. He is known for living quietly on Alibaug island, away from Mumbai’s glam set.</p><p>He generally avoided chasing lead roles, once saying, “If I didn’t become Shah Rukh Khan, does that mean I’m not a star?”</p><h2>Premature balding: A bane that affected Khanna</h2><p>Khanna has been open about the trauma caused by premature balding. He began losing his hair at around the age of 19. In Hollywood, being bald is not an issue — think Bruce Willis, Jason Statham, Vin Diesel, and Dwayne Johnson. But in a glamour-obsessed Bollywood, that was not the case.</p><p>Khanna has said his baldness was a profoundly challenging experience that tested his mental resilience and self-image, not just a physical change but an emotional and professional hurdle.&nbsp;</p><p>“It was like a pianist losing his fingers,” he said in an interview in 2020. “Till you come to terms with it… It’s devastating, heartbreaking. It can mentally kill you. It did affect my self-confidence a lot as a young actor. It did affect me more than I would like to admit.”</p><p>But he never concealed his baldness with wigs. He never pursued hair transplants, in a way becoming an icon for men facing similar issues.<br>He feared it would cost him a year or two of his career.&nbsp;</p><p>And it did.</p>

Akshaye Khanna is suddenly famous again for his portayal of Rehman Dakait Dhurandhar. But he has been around for nearly 30 years. What had happened to his career?
 

Akshaye Khanna and his aura are getting lots of love from a new generation of audiences, many of whom probably don’t know he has been around in Bollywood for nearly three decades. The son of legendary actor Vinod Khanna started his career in 1997 but took several breaks and sabbaticals, as his flops and early baldness became burdens. Here is a snapshot of his career before the current hype surrounding his portrayal of a Pakistani gangster in the Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar. Khanna has acted in around 40 films Since his 1997 debut as the hero of Himalaya Putra, Khanna has worked across thrillers, dramas, and comedies. The winner of two Filmfare Awards (Best Male Debut for Border in 1997 and Best Supporting Actor for Dil Chahta Hai in 2001), he also earned several nominations for roles ranging from negative to supporting characters. His filmography shows phases of high output and deliberate breaks as he prioritised quality over quantity. His major “comeback” was in early 2025 with Chhaava, in which he was almost unrecognisable under heavy make-up while portraying the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. He ended the year with another bang, playing Pakistani gangster Rehman Dakait in Dhurandhar. Also read: Akshaye Khanna's peak aura: Dhurandhar star's net worth, unmatched legacy and masterclass performance as Rehman Dakait But why was Akshaye Khanna absent from Bollywood for so long? Phases of career Khanna saw a mid-career dip when several of his films did not work at the box office. He took intentional breaks before returning to mature, character-driven roles. His debut phase was explosive, with nine films, particularly establishing him through Border and Taal. While he had no releases in 2000, Khanna reached the peak of his versatility between 2001 and 2008, featuring in 15 films including multi-starrer hits like Dil Chahta Hai, Race, and Humraaz. This period saw him slowly move away from only lead roles, instead taking on supporting and antagonist characters. Becoming selective, he had a gap year in 2005. But his mid-career dip in 2009–2012 came with the flop of most of his eight films including Shortkut and Gali Gali Chor Hai. Akshaye went into a major four-year sabbatical in 2013–2015, which he later described as “traumatic”. Also read: Viral | How Akshaye Khanna scored a Bobby Deol-style Jamal Kodu moment with Dhurandhar's FA9LA Between 2016 and 2022 he did only eight films but began gaining attention again for his performances, particularly in Mom, Drishyam 2, and Section 375, though there were no releases in 2018. Khanna again went into a two-year hiatus in 2023–2024, preferring only quality projects. The back-to-back critical and commercial successes of Chhaava and Dhurandhar have effectively positioned him as the real Bollywood superstar of 2025, although not in traditional lead roles. What did Akshaye Khanna say about not getting work? In the initial gap years, Khanna framed the breaks as deliberate choices rather than failures. But in later interviews, he spoke candidly about the emotional toll of these breaks, even as he refused to engage in constant hustle. On his 2013–2015 break after flops, he said, “Who wants to sit at home? I love to be on set.” Khanna, who is not married, always preferred a low-key life, away from Mumbai. He is known for living quietly on Alibaug island, away from Mumbai’s glam set. He generally avoided chasing lead roles, once saying, “If I didn’t become Shah Rukh Khan, does that mean I’m not a star?” Premature balding: A bane that affected Khanna Khanna has been open about the trauma caused by premature balding. He began losing his hair at around the age of 19. In Hollywood, being bald is not an issue — think Bruce Willis, Jason Statham, Vin Diesel, and Dwayne Johnson. But in a glamour-obsessed Bollywood, that was not the case. Khanna has said his baldness was a profoundly challenging experience that tested his mental resilience and self-image, not just a physical change but an emotional and professional hurdle. “It was like a pianist losing his fingers,” he said in an interview in 2020. “Till you come to terms with it… It’s devastating, heartbreaking. It can mentally kill you. It did affect my self-confidence a lot as a young actor. It did affect me more than I would like to admit.” But he never concealed his baldness with wigs. He never pursued hair transplants, in a way becoming an icon for men facing similar issues. He feared it would cost him a year or two of his career. And it did.

<p>Akshaye Khanna is suddenly famous again for his portayal of Rehman Dakait <i>Dhurandhar</i>. But he has been around for nearly 30 years. What had happened to his career?<br>&nbsp;</p>

Akshaye Khanna is Aura King now, but why did Bollywood shun him before Durandhar, Chhaava success?

<p>US President Donald Trump said the Democratic representative Ilhan Omar “should be thrown the hell out of our country” amid tensions over US immigration policy and the presence of fellow Somali-American communities in her state of Minnesota. This is part of Trump’s longstanding personal attacks on Omar, even as he accused Somali migrants of “destroying” the country through alleged welfare fraud and a failure to assimilate into American society.</p><h2>Alleged fraud by Minnesota’s Somali community</h2><p>There are some 100,000 Somali-Americans in Omar's Minnesota state. Trump’s xenophobic comments came after reports of probes into alleged fraud in Minnesota’s Somali community, such as misuse of taxpayer-funded healthcare programmes, which Trump linked directly to Omar. He is painting it as part of issues with migration from what he termed “s***hole countries” like Somalia.</p><p>The US Justice Department has been conducting probes into fraud in Minnesota’s Medicaid and food assistance programmes by Somali residents, including alleged scams worth 250 million dollars since 2023.</p><p>A Somali refugee and naturalised citizen, Omar has said Trump’s anger stems from his “failing” agenda and efforts to rally his base ahead of mid-term elections in Minnesota. She has been an opponent of ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalis and mass deportations.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-be-here-probably-longer-than-trump-ilhan-omar-says-trump-s-obsession-with-her-is-creepy-1764784747581">'Will be here probably longer than Trump': Ilhan Omar says Trump's obsession with her is ‘creepy’</a></p><h2>This is not the first time that Trump said Omar should leave the US: ‘Married her brother…’</h2><p>Trump has repeatedly claimed that Omar “married her brother” to fraudulently gain US entry and citizenship, calling it undeniable and grounds for denaturalisation. “She supposedly came into our country by marrying her brother... If that’s true, she shouldn’t be a congressman, and we should throw her the hell out,” Trump said.</p><p>The rumours regarding her marriage were fanned by conservative media outlets since 2016, when Omar ran for the state assembly. The FBI, Minnesota Campaign Finance Board, and House Ethics Committee found no evidence after probes. No charges were filed, and Omar has fought these claims as Islamophobic smears.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-married-her-brother-trump-s-fresh-jibe-at-ilhan-omar-who-s-always-wrapped-in-her-swaddling-hijab-1764336478141">'Married her brother': Trump's fresh jibe at Ilhan Omar, who's 'always wrapped in her swaddling hijab'</a></p><h2>What is Ilhan Omar’s immigration status?</h2><p>Ilhan Omar, born to a Muslim family in Somalia in 1982, is a naturalised American citizen.&nbsp;</p><p>She fled the Somali civil war as a child, arriving in the US as a refugee in 1995 after spending time in a refugee camp in Kenya. Omar later became a green card (permanent residency) holder and then a naturalised US citizen in 2000 when she was 17. She has served as the US Representative from Minnesota since 2019. &nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-edition-progressive-democrats-object-to-iron-dome-funding-415693/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-edition-progressive-democrats-object-to-iron-dome-funding-415693/embed</a></p><h2>Can Trump ‘throw out’ Omar from the US? What does the law say?</h2><p>Trump cannot unilaterally deport Omar via executive order, as deportation applies only to non-citizens. The US Constitution’s 14th Amendment guarantees equal protection to all citizens, and the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) does not authorise the president to expel citizens.</p><p>Being a naturalised citizen, Omar has the same constitutional rights and protections as any US-born citizen, including the right to vote and hold elected office (except that of the US president).&nbsp;</p><p>The law protects citizens — including naturalised ones — from deportation under normal circumstances.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-somalis-who-they-are-trump-ilhan-omar-rant-1764834021045">Somali migrants targeted in Trump’s racist and xenophobic rant, claims they ‘Destroyed Minnesota’</a></p><h2>But, there's a narrow legal loophole for revoking citizenship, or denaturalising a naturalised citizen</h2><p>Under INA Section 340 (8 U.S.C. § 1451), the Department of Justice (DOJ) can initiate a civil proceeding in federal court to strip somebody's citizenship if it proves, by “clear, unequivocal, and convincing evidence,” that the person willfully concealed a material fact or made a deliberate misrepresentation during the naturalisation process.&nbsp;</p><p>This could range from fraud in applications or interviews to misrepresentation that directly affected eligibility for citizenship. If the legal move is successful, the person reverts to their prior immigration status, in Omar’s case as a refugee/asylee or permanent resident. &nbsp;This could open the door to deportation if they no longer qualify.</p><p>This process has been extremely rare, with fewer than 100 cases per year, mostly applying to war criminals or terrorists. It can take years to complete, including litigation. It also requires judicial approval, not an executive order from the president.&nbsp;</p><p>In short, Trump could direct the DOJ to pursue it, but the final decision will come from the courts.</p>

Trump has renewed his attacks on Ilhan Omar, saying she should be thrown out of the US. Omar is a naturalised citizen. Can the president deport her?

US President Donald Trump said the Democratic representative Ilhan Omar “should be thrown the hell out of our country” amid tensions over US immigration policy and the presence of fellow Somali-American communities in her state of Minnesota. This is part of Trump’s longstanding personal attacks on Omar, even as he accused Somali migrants of “destroying” the country through alleged welfare fraud and a failure to assimilate into American society. Alleged fraud by Minnesota’s Somali community There are some 100,000 Somali-Americans in Omar's Minnesota state. Trump’s xenophobic comments came after reports of probes into alleged fraud in Minnesota’s Somali community, such as misuse of taxpayer-funded healthcare programmes, which Trump linked directly to Omar. He is painting it as part of issues with migration from what he termed “s***hole countries” like Somalia. The US Justice Department has been conducting probes into fraud in Minnesota’s Medicaid and food assistance programmes by Somali residents, including alleged scams worth 250 million dollars since 2023. A Somali refugee and naturalised citizen, Omar has said Trump’s anger stems from his “failing” agenda and efforts to rally his base ahead of mid-term elections in Minnesota. She has been an opponent of ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalis and mass deportations. Also read: 'Will be here probably longer than Trump': Ilhan Omar says Trump's obsession with her is ‘creepy’ This is not the first time that Trump said Omar should leave the US: ‘Married her brother…’ Trump has repeatedly claimed that Omar “married her brother” to fraudulently gain US entry and citizenship, calling it undeniable and grounds for denaturalisation. “She supposedly came into our country by marrying her brother... If that’s true, she shouldn’t be a congressman, and we should throw her the hell out,” Trump said. The rumours regarding her marriage were fanned by conservative media outlets since 2016, when Omar ran for the state assembly. The FBI, Minnesota Campaign Finance Board, and House Ethics Committee found no evidence after probes. No charges were filed, and Omar has fought these claims as Islamophobic smears. Also read: 'Married her brother': Trump's fresh jibe at Ilhan Omar, who's 'always wrapped in her swaddling hijab' What is Ilhan Omar’s immigration status? Ilhan Omar, born to a Muslim family in Somalia in 1982, is a naturalised American citizen. She fled the Somali civil war as a child, arriving in the US as a refugee in 1995 after spending time in a refugee camp in Kenya. Omar later became a green card (permanent residency) holder and then a naturalised US citizen in 2000 when she was 17. She has served as the US Representative from Minnesota since 2019. https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-edition-progressive-democrats-object-to-iron-dome-funding-415693/embed Can Trump ‘throw out’ Omar from the US? What does the law say? Trump cannot unilaterally deport Omar via executive order, as deportation applies only to non-citizens. The US Constitution’s 14th Amendment guarantees equal protection to all citizens, and the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) does not authorise the president to expel citizens. Being a naturalised citizen, Omar has the same constitutional rights and protections as any US-born citizen, including the right to vote and hold elected office (except that of the US president). The law protects citizens — including naturalised ones — from deportation under normal circumstances. Also read: Somali migrants targeted in Trump’s racist and xenophobic rant, claims they ‘Destroyed Minnesota’ But, there's a narrow legal loophole for revoking citizenship, or denaturalising a naturalised citizen Under INA Section 340 (8 U.S.C. § 1451), the Department of Justice (DOJ) can initiate a civil proceeding in federal court to strip somebody's citizenship if it proves, by “clear, unequivocal, and convincing evidence,” that the person willfully concealed a material fact or made a deliberate misrepresentation during the naturalisation process. This could range from fraud in applications or interviews to misrepresentation that directly affected eligibility for citizenship. If the legal move is successful, the person reverts to their prior immigration status, in Omar’s case as a refugee/asylee or permanent resident. This could open the door to deportation if they no longer qualify. This process has been extremely rare, with fewer than 100 cases per year, mostly applying to war criminals or terrorists. It can take years to complete, including litigation. It also requires judicial approval, not an executive order from the president. In short, Trump could direct the DOJ to pursue it, but the final decision will come from the courts.

<p>Trump has renewed his attacks on Ilhan Omar, saying she should be thrown out of the US. Omar is a naturalised citizen. Can the president deport her?</p>

Trump says Ilhan Omar should be  ‘thrown the hell out’ of the US. What exactly is her immigration status? Can he deport her? What does the law say?

<p>US President Donald Trump's response to Netflix's plans to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery's (WBD) film studios and streaming assets was, "it could be a problem." Now, multiple reports suggest a possible reason: his son-in-law Jared Kushner’s investment firm is involved in the larger, rival bid by Paramount Skydance to acquire the entire WBD company. Larry Ellison, the Oracle founder and a Trump ally, is also part of the Paramount hostile bid, which totals around a $108 billion all-cash offer made directly to WBD shareholders, bypassing its board.</p><h2>What did Trump say about the Netflix-WBD acquisition?</h2><p>Speaking at the Kennedy Center on December 7, two days after Netflix's proposed $72 billion deal for WBD assets, including HBO Max, was announced, Trump said the deal "could be a problem" due to Netflix's dominant market share. With over 300 million subscribers, which he said could "go up a lot" post-merger, the deal might violate antitrust laws that prevent any player from controlling 50 per cent or more of the market. Trump also said he would be "personally involved" in the regulatory review, which is unusual intervention for a president. The Justice Department will also scrutinise the Netflix deal, which, if approved, would close in the third quarter of 2026.</p><p>Already, Hollywood unions like the Writers Guild of America are against the Netflix-WBD deal, citing potential job losses, reduced content diversity, and higher subscription costs.</p><h2>Trump may have a personal interest in WBD deal</h2><p>Larry Ellison is the father of Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison, a Trump ally. The Paramount bid also includes RedBird Capital and Middle Eastern sovereign funds from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. Unlike Netflix’s offer, Paramount’s bid targets WBD’s entire portfolio, including CNN and TNT. Remember how much Trump hates CNN?</p><h2>The Trump son-in-law angle: How is Jared Kushner involved in Paramount bid for WBD?</h2><p>One of the financiers backing Paramount’s proposal is Affinity Partners, Kushner’s private equity firm. Kushner, a former White House advisor, stands to benefit from the bid, raising significant conflict-of-interest concerns given Trump’s public opposition to the Netflix deal.&nbsp;</p><p>Trump has denied discussing the bid with Kushner, stating that neither Netflix nor Paramount are "friends of mine" and that he will do what is right.</p><p>But reportedly, &nbsp;Ellison called Trump after the Netflix announcement to warn that the deal would hurt competition. Trump has a history of intervening in media group decisions for concessions, including approving the Paramount-Skydance merger after CBS fired his critics.</p><h2>WBD is now in a bind: Netflix or Paramount?</h2><p>The company must review the Paramount offer and recommend a course to shareholders within 10 days, while facing a potential $2.8 billion breakup fee to Netflix if it switches suitors. With Trump and his family involved, the legacy media conglomerate faces a highly complicated and politically charged acquisition battle.</p>

Donald Trump has expressed scepticism about Netflix’s $72 billion Warner Bros Discovery deal. It has now emerged that his son-in-law Jared Kushner is one of the people behind Paramount’s $108 billion rival bid. The saga now reeks of conflict-of-interest and antitrust concerns


US President Donald Trump's response to Netflix's plans to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery's (WBD) film studios and streaming assets was, "it could be a problem." Now, multiple reports suggest a possible reason: his son-in-law Jared Kushner’s investment firm is involved in the larger, rival bid by Paramount Skydance to acquire the entire WBD company. Larry Ellison, the Oracle founder and a Trump ally, is also part of the Paramount hostile bid, which totals around a $108 billion all-cash offer made directly to WBD shareholders, bypassing its board. What did Trump say about the Netflix-WBD acquisition? Speaking at the Kennedy Center on December 7, two days after Netflix's proposed $72 billion deal for WBD assets, including HBO Max, was announced, Trump said the deal "could be a problem" due to Netflix's dominant market share. With over 300 million subscribers, which he said could "go up a lot" post-merger, the deal might violate antitrust laws that prevent any player from controlling 50 per cent or more of the market. Trump also said he would be "personally involved" in the regulatory review, which is unusual intervention for a president. The Justice Department will also scrutinise the Netflix deal, which, if approved, would close in the third quarter of 2026. Already, Hollywood unions like the Writers Guild of America are against the Netflix-WBD deal, citing potential job losses, reduced content diversity, and higher subscription costs. Trump may have a personal interest in WBD deal Larry Ellison is the father of Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison, a Trump ally. The Paramount bid also includes RedBird Capital and Middle Eastern sovereign funds from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. Unlike Netflix’s offer, Paramount’s bid targets WBD’s entire portfolio, including CNN and TNT. Remember how much Trump hates CNN? The Trump son-in-law angle: How is Jared Kushner involved in Paramount bid for WBD? One of the financiers backing Paramount’s proposal is Affinity Partners, Kushner’s private equity firm. Kushner, a former White House advisor, stands to benefit from the bid, raising significant conflict-of-interest concerns given Trump’s public opposition to the Netflix deal. Trump has denied discussing the bid with Kushner, stating that neither Netflix nor Paramount are "friends of mine" and that he will do what is right. But reportedly, Ellison called Trump after the Netflix announcement to warn that the deal would hurt competition. Trump has a history of intervening in media group decisions for concessions, including approving the Paramount-Skydance merger after CBS fired his critics. WBD is now in a bind: Netflix or Paramount? The company must review the Paramount offer and recommend a course to shareholders within 10 days, while facing a potential $2.8 billion breakup fee to Netflix if it switches suitors. With Trump and his family involved, the legacy media conglomerate faces a highly complicated and politically charged acquisition battle.

<p>Donald Trump has expressed scepticism about Netflix’s $72 billion Warner Bros Discovery deal. It has now emerged that his son-in-law Jared Kushner is one of the people behind Paramount’s $108 billion rival bid. The saga now reeks of conflict-of-interest and antitrust concerns</p>

Trump opposing Netflix - Warner deal because his son-in-law is involved in rival bid by Paramount?

<p>Paramount Skydance on Monday (Dec 8) made a hostile 108.4-billion-dollar all-cash offer for the whole of the Warner Bros Discovery empire, in a tender that bypassed the WBD board and went directly to shareholders, just days after Netflix announced the acquisition of the film and television studios and streaming assets of the entertainment conglomerate. With the Paramount bid, WBD is now at the centre of a high-stakes contest between Netflix and Paramount, backed by Oracle founder Larry Ellison, days after what appeared to be a near-certain announcement from the streaming giant that it would acquire the prized studio and streaming operations of WBD.&nbsp;</p><h2>Paramount Skydance makes a 30-dollar-per-share proposal</h2><p>Paramount’s proposal has 54 billion dollars in committed debt from major banks, along with equity from RedBird Capital and Ellison-aligned investors, reports said. Paramount argues its offer provides 18 billion dollars more in cash than Netflix’s. It claims that its bid will face less regulatory scrutiny. It noted that Netflix’s US market share, if it merges with WBD’s streaming assets, would exceed 50 per cent and draw antitrust concerns from the Department of Justice.</p><h2>WBD has been looking for suitors</h2><p>Amid falling cable revenues, WBD CEO David Zaslav has been looking to pare losses. Formal bids for WBD emerged in late November, with Netflix aggressively seeking WBD’s studios and streaming assets, including HBO Max, in a deal valued at 72 billion dollars in equity, at 27.75 dollars per share.</p><h2>How is Paramount’s bid different?</h2><p>Paramount seeks to acquire the entire company — Warner Bros studios, HBO Max, CNN, Discovery networks and cable channels. Besides Ellison, Paramount is backed by Middle Eastern financing, and has been positioning itself as the only “full-service” buyer.</p><h2>What is happening with the Netflix–WBD negotiations?</h2><p>The WBD board on 4 December granted Netflix exclusive negotiating rights and accepted a 5-billion-dollar breakup fee. Paramount accused WBD of a “rigged” process and failure to honour fiduciary duties, saying in a &nbsp;letter that Netflix’s bid carried “substantial risks.” Paramount highlighted Netflixs antitrust challenges, reduced theatrical releases and conflicts with cable networks. WBD had earlier dismissed these claims, stating that the sale process with Netflix had been “robust.”</p><h2>Netflix sends midnight letter to subscribers'</h2><p>After announcing that it would purchase WBD’s studio and streaming assets, Netflix sent a “midnight letter” to its 300 million subscribers on 6 December, promising “nothing is changing today,” on subscription pricing and content libraries. It also said theatrical releases would continue, but with shorter windows to transition to streaming in order to “meet audiences quicker.”</p><h2>Netflix is trying hard to win regulators</h2><p>US President Donald Trump has hinted that Netflix’s acquisition of WBD would be “a problem.” Ellison has reportedly lobbied him directly. Amid this, Netflix has intensified lobbying regulators. It has reportedly hired advisers and bankers familiar with Skydance’s own acquisition strategies.</p><h2>What is the future for Warner?</h2><p>WBD acknowledged the Paramount tender, but has not moved away from Netflix’s agreement. WBD has committed to a formal review of Paramount’s offer, which will remain open until 8 January. Labour unions and lawmakers have raised alarm about likely job losses and subscriber price hikes under Netflix. European regulators are also preparing reviews of the merger if it happens. Shareholder rejection, potential lawsuits, regulatory blocks or even no sale at all are possible.</p>

WBD is now at the centre of a high-stakes contest between Netflix and Paramount, backed by Oracle founder Larry Ellison, days after what appeared to be a near-certain announcement

Paramount Skydance on Monday (Dec 8) made a hostile 108.4-billion-dollar all-cash offer for the whole of the Warner Bros Discovery empire, in a tender that bypassed the WBD board and went directly to shareholders, just days after Netflix announced the acquisition of the film and television studios and streaming assets of the entertainment conglomerate. With the Paramount bid, WBD is now at the centre of a high-stakes contest between Netflix and Paramount, backed by Oracle founder Larry Ellison, days after what appeared to be a near-certain announcement from the streaming giant that it would acquire the prized studio and streaming operations of WBD. Paramount Skydance makes a 30-dollar-per-share proposal Paramount’s proposal has 54 billion dollars in committed debt from major banks, along with equity from RedBird Capital and Ellison-aligned investors, reports said. Paramount argues its offer provides 18 billion dollars more in cash than Netflix’s. It claims that its bid will face less regulatory scrutiny. It noted that Netflix’s US market share, if it merges with WBD’s streaming assets, would exceed 50 per cent and draw antitrust concerns from the Department of Justice. WBD has been looking for suitors Amid falling cable revenues, WBD CEO David Zaslav has been looking to pare losses. Formal bids for WBD emerged in late November, with Netflix aggressively seeking WBD’s studios and streaming assets, including HBO Max, in a deal valued at 72 billion dollars in equity, at 27.75 dollars per share. How is Paramount’s bid different? Paramount seeks to acquire the entire company — Warner Bros studios, HBO Max, CNN, Discovery networks and cable channels. Besides Ellison, Paramount is backed by Middle Eastern financing, and has been positioning itself as the only “full-service” buyer. What is happening with the Netflix–WBD negotiations? The WBD board on 4 December granted Netflix exclusive negotiating rights and accepted a 5-billion-dollar breakup fee. Paramount accused WBD of a “rigged” process and failure to honour fiduciary duties, saying in a letter that Netflix’s bid carried “substantial risks.” Paramount highlighted Netflixs antitrust challenges, reduced theatrical releases and conflicts with cable networks. WBD had earlier dismissed these claims, stating that the sale process with Netflix had been “robust.” Netflix sends midnight letter to subscribers' After announcing that it would purchase WBD’s studio and streaming assets, Netflix sent a “midnight letter” to its 300 million subscribers on 6 December, promising “nothing is changing today,” on subscription pricing and content libraries. It also said theatrical releases would continue, but with shorter windows to transition to streaming in order to “meet audiences quicker.” Netflix is trying hard to win regulators US President Donald Trump has hinted that Netflix’s acquisition of WBD would be “a problem.” Ellison has reportedly lobbied him directly. Amid this, Netflix has intensified lobbying regulators. It has reportedly hired advisers and bankers familiar with Skydance’s own acquisition strategies. What is the future for Warner? WBD acknowledged the Paramount tender, but has not moved away from Netflix’s agreement. WBD has committed to a formal review of Paramount’s offer, which will remain open until 8 January. Labour unions and lawmakers have raised alarm about likely job losses and subscriber price hikes under Netflix. European regulators are also preparing reviews of the merger if it happens. Shareholder rejection, potential lawsuits, regulatory blocks or even no sale at all are possible.

<p>WBD is now at the centre of a high-stakes contest between Netflix and Paramount, backed by Oracle founder Larry Ellison, days after what appeared to be a near-certain announcement</p>

Netflix sends 'nothing's changing' letter to subscribers as Paramount makes hostile offer for Warner Bros

<p>While much in the new Netflix docuseries <i>Sean Combs: The Reckoning </i>is already known to those who follow P Diddy’s multiple legal cases, there are some shocking revelations that could change the course of some court hearings and investigations into the jailed hip hop mogul. &nbsp;Executive-produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, the Netflix docuseries presents previously unseen material beyond earlier documentaries and public allegations on Combs, once known as Puff Daddy, who is currently serving a 50-month jail sentence. These include exclusive footage, private journals, LAPD archives, anonymous affidavits, insider testimony, and never-before-aired interviews. Here is a total recap.</p><h2>Never-seen footage from days before Combs’ 2024 arrest</h2><p>Much of the docuseries, released on December 2, is built around candid self-recordings of Combs just prior to his September 2024 arrest. The filmmakers state the footage was obtained lawfully, despite Combs’ lawyers alleging otherwise. In the footage, Combs appears anxious, discussing ongoing probes and lawsuits against him with his lawyers, plans to move large sums of his assets, and allegedly showing discomfort with physical contact with fellow Black individuals during a visit to Harlem, New York.</p><h2>Bad Boy Records cofounder Kirk Burrowes’ private journals from the 1990s</h2><p>Kirk Burrowes presents handwritten journals from his time at Bad Boy Records, documenting alleged internal conflicts. He claims Combs attempted to rewrite Biggie Small’s (Notorious B.I.G) contract after the rapper’s murder— something Burrowes refused, leading to his dismissal. He also alleges Combs billed Biggie’s expensive funeral to the rapper’s own estate.&nbsp;</p><h2>Allegations of abuse toward Combs’ mother, Janice</h2><p>A childhood friend recounts that Combs verbally and physically abused his mother after the 1991 City College crowd-surge tragedy. However, Janice Combs has publicly denied these claims.</p><h2>Alleged 2005 affidavit from Aubrey O'Day concerning her own sexual assault</h2><p>The docuseries shows Aubrey O’Day reading, for the first time, a 2005 affidavit from a witness who claimed she the singer being drugged and sexually assaulted while unconscious. O’Day also presents messages she says were sexually coercive, allegedly sent by Combs during her time in Danity Kane, &nbsp;formed by Combs during his <i>Make the Band</i> reality show, from which O'Day was eventually ousted.</p><h2>Testimony from a sex worker about long-term “freak-off” events with Combs and Cassie Ventura</h2><p>A male sex worker appears before the camera, claiming to have participated for eight years in annual “freak-off” events allegedly organised by Combs and his then-partner Cassie Ventura. His interview includes allegations of drug use, exploitation, semen collection, and witnessing violence.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rapper-sean-diddy-combs-gets-2028-release-date-from-us-authorities-wion-1761637074316/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/rapper-sean-diddy-combs-gets-2028-release-date-from-us-authorities-wion-1761637074316/embed</a></p><h2>Producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones' sex assault claims&nbsp;</h2><p>Jones claims he was never paid for his work on one of Combs’ albums and alleges he captured video evidence of hidden cameras in bathrooms and bedrooms inside Combs’ Florida mansion. He also alleges, on camea, of having been drugged and sexually assaulted during the project, and claims that a shooting on the property was covered up.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/sean-diddy-combs-accuses-netflix-of-using-stolen-footage-in-the-docuseries-50-cent-says-it-s-not-personal-1764680439654">Sean Diddy Combs accuses Netflix of using 'stolen footage' in the docuseries; 50 Cent says 'It’s not personal'</a></p><h2>Allegation that Combs offered a bounty for killing Tupac Shakur and possible links to Biggie’s murder</h2><p>The documentary includes footage of a 2008 police interview with gang member Duane “Keffe D” Davis, who claimed Combs offered a one-million-dollar bounty to kill Tupac Shakur and Suge Knight, the owner of Death Row Records. It also repeats alerady known allegations that Combs pressured Biggie to go to Los Angeles despite security concerns, cancelling a UK trip that Biggie preferred. Combs has consistently denied all such allegations.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/yearender-2025-a-recap-of-the-sean-diddy-combs-case-that-shook-the-entertainment-industry-1765093118035">Yearender 2025: A recap of the Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs case that shook the entertainment industry</a></p><h2>How these revelations may affect legal actions involving Combs</h2><p>The documentary appears to suggest that, despite more than 100 lawsuits over the years, only a small fraction of Combs’ alleged behaviour has reached public view. If more plaintiffs come forward with supporting evidence, there could be additional civil suits and potentially expanded investigations. Combs’ legal team maintains that the documentary is biased and was released to sway public opinion.</p><h2>Potential effect on murder investigations of Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls</h2><p>Detective Greg Kading’s interview and the full airing of Keffe D’s 2008 police testimony could prompt re-interviews of witnesses in the Tupac case, particularly with Keffe D scheduled to stand trial in 2026. While Combs is not expected to face new charges from these materials, the documentary revives allegations that have long circulated in hip-hop scene. The LAPD may also face renewed pressure to revisit the 1997 Biggie Smalls murder investigation. Biggie’s estate could consider civil action based on financial misconduct allegations raised by Burrowes, such as funeral billing and the alleged attempt to rewrite contracts posthumously. A reopened case could lead to new subpoenas targeting former Bad Boy Records insiders.</p><p>Overall, the documentary adds new allegations, clarifications, and contradictions to an already vast and highly contested body of claims surrounding Sean Combs, many of which are still unproven.</p>

Sean Combs: The Reckoning unveils new allegations against P Diddy, including abuse, financial manipulation, and links to past rap murders. The Netflix docuseries  could trigger a new set of legal troubles for the jailed music mogul

While much in the new Netflix docuseries Sean Combs: The Reckoning is already known to those who follow P Diddy’s multiple legal cases, there are some shocking revelations that could change the course of some court hearings and investigations into the jailed hip hop mogul. Executive-produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, the Netflix docuseries presents previously unseen material beyond earlier documentaries and public allegations on Combs, once known as Puff Daddy, who is currently serving a 50-month jail sentence. These include exclusive footage, private journals, LAPD archives, anonymous affidavits, insider testimony, and never-before-aired interviews. Here is a total recap. Never-seen footage from days before Combs’ 2024 arrest Much of the docuseries, released on December 2, is built around candid self-recordings of Combs just prior to his September 2024 arrest. The filmmakers state the footage was obtained lawfully, despite Combs’ lawyers alleging otherwise. In the footage, Combs appears anxious, discussing ongoing probes and lawsuits against him with his lawyers, plans to move large sums of his assets, and allegedly showing discomfort with physical contact with fellow Black individuals during a visit to Harlem, New York. Bad Boy Records cofounder Kirk Burrowes’ private journals from the 1990s Kirk Burrowes presents handwritten journals from his time at Bad Boy Records, documenting alleged internal conflicts. He claims Combs attempted to rewrite Biggie Small’s (Notorious B.I.G) contract after the rapper’s murder— something Burrowes refused, leading to his dismissal. He also alleges Combs billed Biggie’s expensive funeral to the rapper’s own estate. Allegations of abuse toward Combs’ mother, Janice A childhood friend recounts that Combs verbally and physically abused his mother after the 1991 City College crowd-surge tragedy. However, Janice Combs has publicly denied these claims. Alleged 2005 affidavit from Aubrey O'Day concerning her own sexual assault The docuseries shows Aubrey O’Day reading, for the first time, a 2005 affidavit from a witness who claimed she the singer being drugged and sexually assaulted while unconscious. O’Day also presents messages she says were sexually coercive, allegedly sent by Combs during her time in Danity Kane, formed by Combs during his Make the Band reality show, from which O'Day was eventually ousted. Testimony from a sex worker about long-term “freak-off” events with Combs and Cassie Ventura A male sex worker appears before the camera, claiming to have participated for eight years in annual “freak-off” events allegedly organised by Combs and his then-partner Cassie Ventura. His interview includes allegations of drug use, exploitation, semen collection, and witnessing violence. https://www.wionews.com/videos/rapper-sean-diddy-combs-gets-2028-release-date-from-us-authorities-wion-1761637074316/embed Producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones' sex assault claims Jones claims he was never paid for his work on one of Combs’ albums and alleges he captured video evidence of hidden cameras in bathrooms and bedrooms inside Combs’ Florida mansion. He also alleges, on camea, of having been drugged and sexually assaulted during the project, and claims that a shooting on the property was covered up. Also read: Sean Diddy Combs accuses Netflix of using 'stolen footage' in the docuseries; 50 Cent says 'It’s not personal' Allegation that Combs offered a bounty for killing Tupac Shakur and possible links to Biggie’s murder The documentary includes footage of a 2008 police interview with gang member Duane “Keffe D” Davis, who claimed Combs offered a one-million-dollar bounty to kill Tupac Shakur and Suge Knight, the owner of Death Row Records. It also repeats alerady known allegations that Combs pressured Biggie to go to Los Angeles despite security concerns, cancelling a UK trip that Biggie preferred. Combs has consistently denied all such allegations. Also read: Yearender 2025: A recap of the Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs case that shook the entertainment industry How these revelations may affect legal actions involving Combs The documentary appears to suggest that, despite more than 100 lawsuits over the years, only a small fraction of Combs’ alleged behaviour has reached public view. If more plaintiffs come forward with supporting evidence, there could be additional civil suits and potentially expanded investigations. Combs’ legal team maintains that the documentary is biased and was released to sway public opinion. Potential effect on murder investigations of Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls Detective Greg Kading’s interview and the full airing of Keffe D’s 2008 police testimony could prompt re-interviews of witnesses in the Tupac case, particularly with Keffe D scheduled to stand trial in 2026. While Combs is not expected to face new charges from these materials, the documentary revives allegations that have long circulated in hip-hop scene. The LAPD may also face renewed pressure to revisit the 1997 Biggie Smalls murder investigation. Biggie’s estate could consider civil action based on financial misconduct allegations raised by Burrowes, such as funeral billing and the alleged attempt to rewrite contracts posthumously. A reopened case could lead to new subpoenas targeting former Bad Boy Records insiders. Overall, the documentary adds new allegations, clarifications, and contradictions to an already vast and highly contested body of claims surrounding Sean Combs, many of which are still unproven.

<p><i>Sean Combs: The Reckoning </i>unveils new allegations against P Diddy, including abuse, financial manipulation, and links to past rap murders. The Netflix docuseries &nbsp;could trigger a new set of legal troubles for the jailed music mogul</p>

Sean Combs: The Reckoning - Shocking revelations in Netflix docuseries could change course of murder probes of Tupak Shakur, Biggie Smalls, and more

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Vinod Janardhanan

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.