<p>In the past few months, Reza Pahlavi II has emerged from relative political obscurity and publicly called for regime change in Iran. Emboldened by the Trump administration's pressure tactics, the US military build-up in the Middle East, and ongoing anti-regime protests, the exiled crown prince of the former Shah regime has been making all the right noises about a possible return to his home country to lead a transition. But can he really run Iran if the regime of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ousted by the US through force? What kind of domestic support does he have? Here is a deep dive:</p><h2>Difficult to assess Pahlavi's popularity</h2><p>The Islamic Republic has a track record of arresting and punishing supporters of the Shah’s erstwhile regime. This makes it very difficult to gauge how much support monarchists currently enjoy inside Iran. Some online polling, which is often anonymous and relies on VPNs or the dark web, may not be entirely accurate, as only internet-savvy, urban, or more educated individuals are likely to have responded. One of the most cited independent surveys comes from GAMAAN (Group for Analysing and Measuring Attitudes in Iran). The Netherlands-based non-profit organisation uses anonymous online polling.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/about-200-000-gather-as-iran-s-exiled-prince-reza-pahlavi-urges-us-action-at-munich-rally-1771092627847">Who is Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s exiled prince whose call is fuelling anti-Khamenei protests?</a></p><p><br>A June 2024 GAMAAN survey with over 77,000 respondents inside Iran, representing the literate adult population, showed that Reza Pahlavi was the most popular opposition figure. However, even in that survey, only 31 per cent chose him, either as their first or second most preferred leader.</p><p>According to the survey, support for Pahlavi was higher among men (36 per cent), older respondents (34 per cent among those aged over 50), and less-educated groups (33 per cent). There were also regional differences, with the highest levels of support coming from Gilan (42.5 per cent), Alborz (40 per cent), and North Khorasan (38 per cent) provinces.</p><p>Overall, the polling suggests that roughly one-third of respondents support Pahlavi.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-khamenei-s-sons-take-charge-if-iran-s-supreme-leader-is-forced-to-exit-who-are-they-and-what-do-reports-say-iran-us-tensions-news-1769414466602">Will Khamenei’s sons take charge if Iran’s Supreme Leader is forced to exit? Who are they and what do reports say?</a></p><h2>Is there nostalgia for pre-revolutionary Iran?</h2><p>Reza Pahlavi gained some visibility during the anti-hijab protests of 2022–2023 sparked by Mahsa Amini’s death. During the 2025–2026 waves of protests linked to economic crises, currency depreciation, and regional conflicts, Pahlavi gained further prominence by openly calling for strikes, unity, and regime change. Slogans praising the Pahlavi era were heard during some demonstrations.</p><p>Pahlavi has positioned himself as a unifying transitional figure for democracy and does not appear to be insisting on the restoration of the monarchy.</p><p>Some recent protests have included chants expressing pro-monarchy or nationalist sentiments, such as “Reza Shah, bless your soul”.</p><p>But it would be wrong to assume that the younger generation, which has been at the forefront of many protests, is longing for the Shah dynasty, which they have never experienced. Those most likely to feel nostalgic for the pre-1979 era would be individuals who were young at the time of the revolution and are now in their fifties or sixties.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/reza-pahlavi-urges-trump-to-ditch-iran-talks-as-us-envoys-calls-nuclear-deal-difficult-to-impossible-what-s-next-1771139106494">Reza Pahlavi urges Trump to ditch Iran talks as US envoys calls nuclear deal 'difficult to impossible': What's next?</a></p><h2>How popular is Reza Pahlavi inside Iran?</h2><p>Based on available polling data, he is among the most prominent anti-regime figures, but he does not enjoy majority, or universal, support. Most of his supporters belong to secular, nationalist, and older segments of the population.</p><p>His popularity appears lower among younger people and ethnic minorities such as Kurds, Baluch, and Azeris. Some women and those who favour republican or decentralised political models are also less enthusiastic about Pahlavi.</p><h2>The disconnect: Pahlavi has lived his entire adult life outside Iran</h2><p>Since around the age of 18, Reza Pahlavi has lived outside Iran — initially for pilot training and then in exile following the 1979 revolution that ousted his father's dynasty.</p><p>This has limited his ability to build on-the-ground organisational networks. There are no well-established grassroots structures that would make him an obvious choice in the event of regime change. Some critics view him as opportunistic or overly aligned with Western interests.</p><p>Reza Pahlavi has been perceived as pro-US, with recent examples including his strong praise for President Donald Trump’s threats to attack Iran. His meetings with Israeli leaders and US conservative figures have also been criticised in certain quarters.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-iran-regime-protests-reza-pahlavi-claims-role-in-iran-s-democratic-transition-1771127053913/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-iran-regime-protests-reza-pahlavi-claims-role-in-iran-s-democratic-transition-1771127053913/embed</a></p><h2>Regime change in Iran would not be smooth</h2><p>Any collapse of the regime would likely trigger a domino effect of events: mass protests, internal instability, external pressure, or military defections. Opposition groups might struggle to unite immediately. External actors such as the US could play a role in shaping a new government if the current system were completely dismantled.</p><p>Pahlavi has cultivated an image as a potential transitional leader, frequently emphasising secular democracy, free elections, and a framework of “national cooperation”. He has also engaged in post-Islamic Republic planning initiatives, including the 2025 Iran Prosperity Project.</p><p>However, an important question remains: is most of his support largely symbolic, amplified by diaspora communities and Western media?</p><p>He might be able to secure certain advantages, such as international recognition or sanctions relief — but at what cost?</p><p>Pahlavi could serve as a unifying figure in the event of a power vacuum. By his own statements, he is not seeking personal rule. He could potentially act as a ceremonial or interim leader and facilitate a transition to a non-Islamist political system.</p><h2>The odds against Pahlavi becoming Iran’s ruler</h2><p>Pahlavi does not appear to have a formal domestic political network or a ready pool of officials capable of governing a future regime — or at least none have been publicly identified.</p><p>He currently lacks military backing or a loyal institutional base. Obviously, he has no administrative experience inside Iran.</p><p>Iranian opposition groups remain deeply divided, with monarchists, republicans, leftists, ethnic activists, and women’s rights groups each pursuing different agendas. The restoration of the monarchy does not appear to be widely supported, with only around 20–25 per cent explicitly favouring it.</p><p>Pahlavi’s perceived closeness to pro-Israel or Western conservative circles could alienate segments of society wary of foreign influence.</p><p>As mentioned, sudden ouster of the Islamist regime could lead to a fragmented transition. In such circumstances, power might be more likely to fall into the hands of military figures, clerical authorities, or even armed groups formed by former troops and their chiefs.</p><p>An exile such as Pahlavi may not command the same level of institutional leverage — unless a US administration were to actively install him with the backing of American military, intelligence, and bureaucratic structures.</p><p>In short, while Reza Pahlavi has meaningful support as a symbol of change and could play a role in a democratic transition, actually governing Iran in the long term would present significant challenges.</p><p>As a visible figure in the West, he might be well-placed to facilitate elections or national reconciliation efforts.&nbsp;</p><p>However, running Iran would require broader domestic consensus, robust organisational capacity, and the ability to overcome deep societal divisions.</p><p>It remains unclear whether these conditions would be achievable in a post-Islamic Republic scenario. He may ultimately prove more viable as a unifying figurehead than as a guaranteed ruler.</p>

Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent opposition figure amid calls for regime change in Iran and possible US military action. But his domestic support is limited. In case of a forced ouster of the Islamic Republic regime, will deep divisions hamper his ability to be the leader or ruler?

In the past few months, Reza Pahlavi II has emerged from relative political obscurity and publicly called for regime change in Iran. Emboldened by the Trump administration's pressure tactics, the US military build-up in the Middle East, and ongoing anti-regime protests, the exiled crown prince of the former Shah regime has been making all the right noises about a possible return to his home country to lead a transition. But can he really run Iran if the regime of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ousted by the US through force? What kind of domestic support does he have? Here is a deep dive: Difficult to assess Pahlavi's popularity The Islamic Republic has a track record of arresting and punishing supporters of the Shah’s erstwhile regime. This makes it very difficult to gauge how much support monarchists currently enjoy inside Iran. Some online polling, which is often anonymous and relies on VPNs or the dark web, may not be entirely accurate, as only internet-savvy, urban, or more educated individuals are likely to have responded. One of the most cited independent surveys comes from GAMAAN (Group for Analysing and Measuring Attitudes in Iran). The Netherlands-based non-profit organisation uses anonymous online polling. Also read: Who is Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s exiled prince whose call is fuelling anti-Khamenei protests? A June 2024 GAMAAN survey with over 77,000 respondents inside Iran, representing the literate adult population, showed that Reza Pahlavi was the most popular opposition figure. However, even in that survey, only 31 per cent chose him, either as their first or second most preferred leader. According to the survey, support for Pahlavi was higher among men (36 per cent), older respondents (34 per cent among those aged over 50), and less-educated groups (33 per cent). There were also regional differences, with the highest levels of support coming from Gilan (42.5 per cent), Alborz (40 per cent), and North Khorasan (38 per cent) provinces. Overall, the polling suggests that roughly one-third of respondents support Pahlavi. Also read: Will Khamenei’s sons take charge if Iran’s Supreme Leader is forced to exit? Who are they and what do reports say? Is there nostalgia for pre-revolutionary Iran? Reza Pahlavi gained some visibility during the anti-hijab protests of 2022–2023 sparked by Mahsa Amini’s death. During the 2025–2026 waves of protests linked to economic crises, currency depreciation, and regional conflicts, Pahlavi gained further prominence by openly calling for strikes, unity, and regime change. Slogans praising the Pahlavi era were heard during some demonstrations. Pahlavi has positioned himself as a unifying transitional figure for democracy and does not appear to be insisting on the restoration of the monarchy. Some recent protests have included chants expressing pro-monarchy or nationalist sentiments, such as “Reza Shah, bless your soul”. But it would be wrong to assume that the younger generation, which has been at the forefront of many protests, is longing for the Shah dynasty, which they have never experienced. Those most likely to feel nostalgic for the pre-1979 era would be individuals who were young at the time of the revolution and are now in their fifties or sixties. Also read: Reza Pahlavi urges Trump to ditch Iran talks as US envoys calls nuclear deal 'difficult to impossible': What's next? How popular is Reza Pahlavi inside Iran? Based on available polling data, he is among the most prominent anti-regime figures, but he does not enjoy majority, or universal, support. Most of his supporters belong to secular, nationalist, and older segments of the population. His popularity appears lower among younger people and ethnic minorities such as Kurds, Baluch, and Azeris. Some women and those who favour republican or decentralised political models are also less enthusiastic about Pahlavi. The disconnect: Pahlavi has lived his entire adult life outside Iran Since around the age of 18, Reza Pahlavi has lived outside Iran — initially for pilot training and then in exile following the 1979 revolution that ousted his father's dynasty. This has limited his ability to build on-the-ground organisational networks. There are no well-established grassroots structures that would make him an obvious choice in the event of regime change. Some critics view him as opportunistic or overly aligned with Western interests. Reza Pahlavi has been perceived as pro-US, with recent examples including his strong praise for President Donald Trump’s threats to attack Iran. His meetings with Israeli leaders and US conservative figures have also been criticised in certain quarters. https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-iran-regime-protests-reza-pahlavi-claims-role-in-iran-s-democratic-transition-1771127053913/embed Regime change in Iran would not be smooth Any collapse of the regime would likely trigger a domino effect of events: mass protests, internal instability, external pressure, or military defections. Opposition groups might struggle to unite immediately. External actors such as the US could play a role in shaping a new government if the current system were completely dismantled. Pahlavi has cultivated an image as a potential transitional leader, frequently emphasising secular democracy, free elections, and a framework of “national cooperation”. He has also engaged in post-Islamic Republic planning initiatives, including the 2025 Iran Prosperity Project. However, an important question remains: is most of his support largely symbolic, amplified by diaspora communities and Western media? He might be able to secure certain advantages, such as international recognition or sanctions relief — but at what cost? Pahlavi could serve as a unifying figure in the event of a power vacuum. By his own statements, he is not seeking personal rule. He could potentially act as a ceremonial or interim leader and facilitate a transition to a non-Islamist political system. The odds against Pahlavi becoming Iran’s ruler Pahlavi does not appear to have a formal domestic political network or a ready pool of officials capable of governing a future regime — or at least none have been publicly identified. He currently lacks military backing or a loyal institutional base. Obviously, he has no administrative experience inside Iran. Iranian opposition groups remain deeply divided, with monarchists, republicans, leftists, ethnic activists, and women’s rights groups each pursuing different agendas. The restoration of the monarchy does not appear to be widely supported, with only around 20–25 per cent explicitly favouring it. Pahlavi’s perceived closeness to pro-Israel or Western conservative circles could alienate segments of society wary of foreign influence. As mentioned, sudden ouster of the Islamist regime could lead to a fragmented transition. In such circumstances, power might be more likely to fall into the hands of military figures, clerical authorities, or even armed groups formed by former troops and their chiefs. An exile such as Pahlavi may not command the same level of institutional leverage — unless a US administration were to actively install him with the backing of American military, intelligence, and bureaucratic structures. In short, while Reza Pahlavi has meaningful support as a symbol of change and could play a role in a democratic transition, actually governing Iran in the long term would present significant challenges. As a visible figure in the West, he might be well-placed to facilitate elections or national reconciliation efforts. However, running Iran would require broader domestic consensus, robust organisational capacity, and the ability to overcome deep societal divisions. It remains unclear whether these conditions would be achievable in a post-Islamic Republic scenario. He may ultimately prove more viable as a unifying figurehead than as a guaranteed ruler.

<p>Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent opposition figure amid calls for regime change in Iran and possible US military action. But his domestic support is limited. In case of a forced ouster of the Islamic Republic regime, will deep divisions hamper his ability to be the leader or ruler?</p>

Can Reza Pahlavi II really run Iran if the Islamic Republic is ousted by a US military operation?

<p>For the longest time, former Buckingham Palace cop Paul Page made several allegations in the wake of the sordid Jeffrey Epstein saga and the late paedophile-trafficker’s links with now-jailed ex-UK socialite Ghislaine Maxwell and now-arrested ex-UK royal Prince Andrew. In interviews with Lad Bible and other outlets since 2022, Page claimed that Maxwell came several times to meet Andrew at Buckingham Palace, often breezing through otherwise tight security in one of the most tightly secured buildings in the world. Maxwell’s access to Andrew, and the Palace, was such that her name was often kept off security records, as per Page’s claims. In his telling, officers even saw them having a private picnic on the Palace lawn. When he made the claims in various interviews since 2022, Page was not taken seriously. But with the arrest of Andrew — once Prince Andrew and now Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — over alleged misuse of public office linked to Epstein files, the ex-cop’s words appear to have a grain of truth in them. His comments are resurfacing even as British police have questioned former protection officers linked to Andrew as part of the probe into his security arrangements and related allegations.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-ghislaine-maxwell-shadow-commission-9-11-doj-release-1771133803234">Epstein files show that an email dated one week after the 9/11- “Where is the real pilot?”</a></p><h2>What did Paul Page say about Epstein?</h2><p>Page, who served as a Buckingham Palace royal protection officer between around 1998 and 2004, appeared in interviews with 60 Minutes Australia, an ITV documentary titled <i>Ghislaine, Prince Andrew and the Paedophile</i>, and more recently on Lad Bible amid renewed scrutiny of the Epstein files following Andrew’s arrest.</p><p>Page rarely made any direct comments on Epstein, having had no personal sightings of the late sex trafficker on Palace grounds during his tenure. He said he did not personally know what was going on regarding any activities of Andrew on the so-called “paedo island” owned by Epstein.</p><p>Page has focused far more on Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s associate and convicted sex trafficker.</p><h2>What did ex-cop Paul say about Ghislaine Maxwell and Andrew?</h2><p>Page said in the various interviews that there were frequent visits by Maxwell which were unlogged in security records, to meet Prince Andrew, starting around 2001. She entered or exited “at will”, he claimed, sometimes multiple times a day — up to four in one day, as per his colleague.</p><p>She did this while bypassing standard logging protocols, which Page described as a “blatant breach” of security.&nbsp;</p><p>Page said Maxwell basically had a “free pass”, and officers suspected intimacy or romantic involvement between her and Andrew. He also witnessed scenarios such as Andrew and Maxwell having a private picnic on Palace grounds.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghislaine-maxwell-fifth-amendment-2016-deposition-epstein-case-1770893974254">From sealed deposition to prison sentence: Ghislaine Maxwell’s legal strategy</a></p><h2>Andrew: Ex-royal compromised by Epstein and Maxwell?</h2><p>While many details are still hazy, suspicion remains that Andrew may have shared confidential UK trade or investment information with Epstein during his time as a trade envoy in 2010 or earlier. Page reiterated that Maxwell had exceptional access and that officers suspected an intimate or romantic relationship between her and Andrew.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-police-question-andrew-s-former-protection-officers-1771682394346/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-police-question-andrew-s-former-protection-officers-1771682394346/embed</a></p><p>It was Maxwell who introduced Andrew to Epstein, according to widely reported accounts.</p><p>Page's revelations found new life following Andrew’s 19 February arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office tied to the Epstein files.&nbsp;</p><p>Page had mentioned historical lapses in royal vetting that allowed Maxwell, convicted in 2022 for sex trafficking, unfettered access despite her father’s fraud scandal.&nbsp;</p><p>Maxwell’s father was the infamous publisher Robert Maxwell, who defrauded his employees of their pension funds.</p>

Ghislaine Maxwell breezed through Buckingham Palace security to meet the now-ex royal Andrew, according to a former UK cop. Her name was kept off records, he had alleged. There appears to be a grain of truth in these claims, in the wake of Andrew's arrest over Epstein files

For the longest time, former Buckingham Palace cop Paul Page made several allegations in the wake of the sordid Jeffrey Epstein saga and the late paedophile-trafficker’s links with now-jailed ex-UK socialite Ghislaine Maxwell and now-arrested ex-UK royal Prince Andrew. In interviews with Lad Bible and other outlets since 2022, Page claimed that Maxwell came several times to meet Andrew at Buckingham Palace, often breezing through otherwise tight security in one of the most tightly secured buildings in the world. Maxwell’s access to Andrew, and the Palace, was such that her name was often kept off security records, as per Page’s claims. In his telling, officers even saw them having a private picnic on the Palace lawn. When he made the claims in various interviews since 2022, Page was not taken seriously. But with the arrest of Andrew — once Prince Andrew and now Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — over alleged misuse of public office linked to Epstein files, the ex-cop’s words appear to have a grain of truth in them. His comments are resurfacing even as British police have questioned former protection officers linked to Andrew as part of the probe into his security arrangements and related allegations. Also read: Epstein files show that an email dated one week after the 9/11- “Where is the real pilot?” What did Paul Page say about Epstein? Page, who served as a Buckingham Palace royal protection officer between around 1998 and 2004, appeared in interviews with 60 Minutes Australia, an ITV documentary titled Ghislaine, Prince Andrew and the Paedophile, and more recently on Lad Bible amid renewed scrutiny of the Epstein files following Andrew’s arrest. Page rarely made any direct comments on Epstein, having had no personal sightings of the late sex trafficker on Palace grounds during his tenure. He said he did not personally know what was going on regarding any activities of Andrew on the so-called “paedo island” owned by Epstein. Page has focused far more on Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s associate and convicted sex trafficker. What did ex-cop Paul say about Ghislaine Maxwell and Andrew? Page said in the various interviews that there were frequent visits by Maxwell which were unlogged in security records, to meet Prince Andrew, starting around 2001. She entered or exited “at will”, he claimed, sometimes multiple times a day — up to four in one day, as per his colleague. She did this while bypassing standard logging protocols, which Page described as a “blatant breach” of security. Page said Maxwell basically had a “free pass”, and officers suspected intimacy or romantic involvement between her and Andrew. He also witnessed scenarios such as Andrew and Maxwell having a private picnic on Palace grounds. Also read: From sealed deposition to prison sentence: Ghislaine Maxwell’s legal strategy Andrew: Ex-royal compromised by Epstein and Maxwell? While many details are still hazy, suspicion remains that Andrew may have shared confidential UK trade or investment information with Epstein during his time as a trade envoy in 2010 or earlier. Page reiterated that Maxwell had exceptional access and that officers suspected an intimate or romantic relationship between her and Andrew. https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-police-question-andrew-s-former-protection-officers-1771682394346/embed It was Maxwell who introduced Andrew to Epstein, according to widely reported accounts. Page's revelations found new life following Andrew’s 19 February arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office tied to the Epstein files. Page had mentioned historical lapses in royal vetting that allowed Maxwell, convicted in 2022 for sex trafficking, unfettered access despite her father’s fraud scandal. Maxwell’s father was the infamous publisher Robert Maxwell, who defrauded his employees of their pension funds.

<p>Ghislaine Maxwell breezed through Buckingham Palace security to meet the now-ex royal Andrew, according to a former UK cop. Her name was kept off records, he had alleged. There appears to be a grain of truth in these claims, in the wake of Andrew's arrest over Epstein files</p>

Epstein files: 'Ghislaine breezed through Palace security to meet Andrew, name kept off records' -  Ex-cop's  claims take whole new meaning now

<p>The financial services firm Charles Schwab wired nearly $27.7 million on behalf of late paedophile and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein for a “palace in Morocco” just days before his 2019 arrest and alleged suicide, reports said, citing US Justice Department documents. According to the Epstein files cited by the Reuters news agency, the money was wired to a realtor in Morocco in the 10 days before his 2019 arrest.</p><h2>Charles Schwab’s financial nexus with late sex trafficker Epstein</h2><p>According to the Reuters report, Schwab opened three accounts for Epstein’s companies in April 2019, including one for Southern Trust. The account listed Richard Kahn as the authorised individual and Epstein as president and sole beneficial owner. The transactions took place between 26 June and 9 July 2019.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-probe-former-prince-andrew-released-from-custody-1771669779399/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-probe-former-prince-andrew-released-from-custody-1771669779399/embed</a></p><h2>Epstein's dream palace: The three Charles Schwab transactions</h2><p>As per the report, Southern Trust instructed Schwab to wire $12.7 million to buy the Bin Ennakhil palace in Marrakesh, Morocco. The funds were sent to a Julius Baer account in Switzerland held by a realtor, Marc Leon. The transfer was later reversed after a caller said the terms were not “agreeable” and that a larger payment would be made to a different account, Reuters reported.</p><p>On 4 July 2019, two days before Epstein’s arrest, Southern Trust instructed Schwab to send $14.95 million to Leon’s account, but the account lacked sufficient funds because the earlier $12.7 million had not yet been returned, Reuters reported.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-blue-blood-black-book-did-former-prince-andrew-s-epstein-links-push-britain-s-royals-into-their-worst-crisis-in-90-years-1771676196622">Did former Prince Andrew’s Epstein links push Britain’s royals into their worst crisis in 90 years?</a></p><h2>Schwab alerted financial crimes body after Epstein arrest</h2><p>According to the report, Schwab filed a suspicious activity report (SAR) to the US Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on 13 July 2019, seven days after Epstein’s arrest.</p><p>Schwab told FinCEN it had “concerns with attempted wires for the purpose of real estate, in light of negative media surrounding Jeffrey Epstein” and concerns about him being a possible flight risk ahead of a bail hearing.</p><p>It said: “An associate of Epstein opened accounts in April 2019. Shortly after, our Risk team began investigating the accounts and within 60 days of starting the review, we notified the client of our decision to close and terminate the relationship. We also referred the matter to federal law enforcement.”</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-estate-agrees-to-pay-up-to-35-million-to-settle-survivors-lawsuit-1771578511189">Epstein Estate agrees to pay up to $35 million to settle survivors’ lawsuit</a></p><h2>All about Bin Ennakhil palace eyed by Epstein before his death</h2><p>The Bin Ennakhil palace spans 4.6 hectares and features gold-draped walls, a hammam steam spa and 60 marble fountains. It includes gardens with hundreds of olive trees and more than 2,000 palms. According to Irish Times report from 2014, it has a bamboo forest, aromatic rose garden and orangery. The built area of the palace spans 5,481sq m (59,000sq ft). It has eight bedrooms, indoor and outdoor pools and a jacuzzi as well as “museum-quality” gilding, carving and zellige tiling.</p><p>The palace covers an area bigger than New York’s Washington Square Park or around six standard football pitches, according to the Reuters report.</p><p>The property was being marketed through Marc Leon, a Marrakesh-based realtor. Reuters reported that Epstein had first attempted to buy Bin Ennakhil in 2011 and that negotiations over the terms and price continued over the years.</p><p>The Irish Times report described the palace as "the result of a dream by two builders enamoured with the Alhambra in Grenada."</p><p>“While browsing in a second-hand bookshop in London 20 years ago, the pair found plans for the Andalusian masterpiece and engaged 1,300 craftsmen over the space of three years to construct this marble replica,” said a report on 'the most opulent homes in the world'.</p><h2>‘There was nothing to prevent Epstein from buying Morocco palace’</h2><p>Citing Leon, the Reuters report said Epstein had been convicted of sex crimes in 2008 and had served his sentence, and therefore there was nothing to prevent him from attempting to purchase property in Morocco.</p><p>“We had no way of knowing that he had continued his terrible crimes. The anti-money laundering checks in force were carried out by the banking institutions involved in the future transaction, which ultimately never took place,” Reuters quoted Leon as saying.</p><p>The property has since been sold to another buyer, Leon said.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Charles Schwab wired $27.7 million for Jeffrey Epstein’s planned Marrakesh palace purchase days before his 2019 arrest and alleged suicide. The palace is among the most opulent residences in the world. Epstein had an interest in it for years

The financial services firm Charles Schwab wired nearly $27.7 million on behalf of late paedophile and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein for a “palace in Morocco” just days before his 2019 arrest and alleged suicide, reports said, citing US Justice Department documents. According to the Epstein files cited by the Reuters news agency, the money was wired to a realtor in Morocco in the 10 days before his 2019 arrest. Charles Schwab’s financial nexus with late sex trafficker Epstein According to the Reuters report, Schwab opened three accounts for Epstein’s companies in April 2019, including one for Southern Trust. The account listed Richard Kahn as the authorised individual and Epstein as president and sole beneficial owner. The transactions took place between 26 June and 9 July 2019. https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-probe-former-prince-andrew-released-from-custody-1771669779399/embed Epstein's dream palace: The three Charles Schwab transactions As per the report, Southern Trust instructed Schwab to wire $12.7 million to buy the Bin Ennakhil palace in Marrakesh, Morocco. The funds were sent to a Julius Baer account in Switzerland held by a realtor, Marc Leon. The transfer was later reversed after a caller said the terms were not “agreeable” and that a larger payment would be made to a different account, Reuters reported. On 4 July 2019, two days before Epstein’s arrest, Southern Trust instructed Schwab to send $14.95 million to Leon’s account, but the account lacked sufficient funds because the earlier $12.7 million had not yet been returned, Reuters reported. Also read: Did former Prince Andrew’s Epstein links push Britain’s royals into their worst crisis in 90 years? Schwab alerted financial crimes body after Epstein arrest According to the report, Schwab filed a suspicious activity report (SAR) to the US Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on 13 July 2019, seven days after Epstein’s arrest. Schwab told FinCEN it had “concerns with attempted wires for the purpose of real estate, in light of negative media surrounding Jeffrey Epstein” and concerns about him being a possible flight risk ahead of a bail hearing. It said: “An associate of Epstein opened accounts in April 2019. Shortly after, our Risk team began investigating the accounts and within 60 days of starting the review, we notified the client of our decision to close and terminate the relationship. We also referred the matter to federal law enforcement.” Also read: Epstein Estate agrees to pay up to $35 million to settle survivors’ lawsuit All about Bin Ennakhil palace eyed by Epstein before his death The Bin Ennakhil palace spans 4.6 hectares and features gold-draped walls, a hammam steam spa and 60 marble fountains. It includes gardens with hundreds of olive trees and more than 2,000 palms. According to Irish Times report from 2014, it has a bamboo forest, aromatic rose garden and orangery. The built area of the palace spans 5,481sq m (59,000sq ft). It has eight bedrooms, indoor and outdoor pools and a jacuzzi as well as “museum-quality” gilding, carving and zellige tiling. The palace covers an area bigger than New York’s Washington Square Park or around six standard football pitches, according to the Reuters report. The property was being marketed through Marc Leon, a Marrakesh-based realtor. Reuters reported that Epstein had first attempted to buy Bin Ennakhil in 2011 and that negotiations over the terms and price continued over the years. The Irish Times report described the palace as "the result of a dream by two builders enamoured with the Alhambra in Grenada." “While browsing in a second-hand bookshop in London 20 years ago, the pair found plans for the Andalusian masterpiece and engaged 1,300 craftsmen over the space of three years to construct this marble replica,” said a report on 'the most opulent homes in the world'. ‘There was nothing to prevent Epstein from buying Morocco palace’ Citing Leon, the Reuters report said Epstein had been convicted of sex crimes in 2008 and had served his sentence, and therefore there was nothing to prevent him from attempting to purchase property in Morocco. “We had no way of knowing that he had continued his terrible crimes. The anti-money laundering checks in force were carried out by the banking institutions involved in the future transaction, which ultimately never took place,” Reuters quoted Leon as saying. The property has since been sold to another buyer, Leon said.

<p>Charles Schwab wired $27.7 million for Jeffrey Epstein’s planned Marrakesh palace purchase days before his 2019 arrest and alleged suicide. The palace is among the most opulent residences in the world. Epstein had an interest in it for years</p>

Epstein files: Paedophile wanted to buy a Moroccan palace, but for what? Financial giant Charles Schwab wired $27mn just before his suicide for…

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 21) launched the India Chip Private Limited, a pioneering joint venture between HCL and Foxconn for domestic semiconductor production. Addressing the groundbreaking ceremony of the OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility in the northern city of Jewar in Uttar Pradesh via video conferencing, Modi stressed India’s push for chipmaking self-reliance.</p><p>“India must become self-reliant in chip manufacturing... For this... we need to build a semiconductor ecosystem in India,” Modi said, adding that the nation is working simultaneously on both software and hardware aspects of technology.</p><p>“It is a matter of pride for all of us that Uttar Pradesh is also set to become a major centre in India’s semiconductor ecosystem. This new HCL and Foxconn factory... will further strengthen UP’s new identity as a technology powerhouse,” he said.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/western-dual-use-chips-reportedly-reached-russia-via-north-korea-hong-kong-1771558191370/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/western-dual-use-chips-reportedly-reached-russia-via-north-korea-hong-kong-1771558191370/embed</a></p><h2>A step towards technological self-reliance</h2><p>This is Uttar Pradesh’s first OSAT facility and India’s sixth approved semiconductor project.</p><p>The joint venture between Indian IT giant HCL Technologies and Taiwanese electronics manufacturer Foxconn is located in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) area in Uttar Pradesh, near the upcoming Noida International Airport.</p><p>Spanning approximately 48 acres, the facility has an investment of more than Rs 3,700 crore.</p><p>Foxconn holds a 40 per cent equity stake, having invested $37.2 million (around Rs 312 crore), with possible additional investment of up to Rs 424 crore.</p><p>The project is being developed under the modified scheme for semiconductor ATMP, or Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-about-china-why-india-joining-pax-silica-alliance-on-rare-earths-supply-chain-chip-making-and-ai-is-a-big-deal-1771580224467">Not about China? Why India joining Pax Silica alliance on rare earths supply chain, chip making and AI is a big deal</a></p><h2>What will the OSAT facility make?</h2><p>The facility aims to enhance high-end manufacturing capabilities in sectors such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops and automotive electronics.</p><p>It will focus on display driver integrated circuits for smartphones, laptops, automotive applications and other consumer electronics, according to reports.</p><p>The facility is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs for engineers, technicians and skilled professionals, and to catalyse growth in ancillary industries, design houses, R&amp;D centres and a start-up ecosystem around semiconductors, said a release from the government.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/from-chips-to-chatbots-how-india-is-chasing-ai-billions-1771413723048">From chips to chatbots: How India is chasing AI billions</a></p><h2>India’s growth in chip ecosystem</h2><p>The new facility is a significant step in strengthening India’s self-reliance and its presence in the global chip ecosystem.</p><p>It will help India reduce import dependence, build resilient supply chains and promote innovation, skill development and technology transfer.</p><p>The new facility aligns with government initiatives such as Make in India and Digital India, as well as Atmanirbhar Bharat, or a self-reliant India.</p>

Prime Minister Modi attended the groundbreaking ceremony of a new semiconductor facility in Uttar Pradesh. The HCL and Foxconn joint venture boosts India’s chip manufacturing, self-reliance, jobs and high-end electronics production.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 21) launched the India Chip Private Limited, a pioneering joint venture between HCL and Foxconn for domestic semiconductor production. Addressing the groundbreaking ceremony of the OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility in the northern city of Jewar in Uttar Pradesh via video conferencing, Modi stressed India’s push for chipmaking self-reliance. “India must become self-reliant in chip manufacturing... For this... we need to build a semiconductor ecosystem in India,” Modi said, adding that the nation is working simultaneously on both software and hardware aspects of technology. “It is a matter of pride for all of us that Uttar Pradesh is also set to become a major centre in India’s semiconductor ecosystem. This new HCL and Foxconn factory... will further strengthen UP’s new identity as a technology powerhouse,” he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/western-dual-use-chips-reportedly-reached-russia-via-north-korea-hong-kong-1771558191370/embed A step towards technological self-reliance This is Uttar Pradesh’s first OSAT facility and India’s sixth approved semiconductor project. The joint venture between Indian IT giant HCL Technologies and Taiwanese electronics manufacturer Foxconn is located in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) area in Uttar Pradesh, near the upcoming Noida International Airport. Spanning approximately 48 acres, the facility has an investment of more than Rs 3,700 crore. Foxconn holds a 40 per cent equity stake, having invested $37.2 million (around Rs 312 crore), with possible additional investment of up to Rs 424 crore. The project is being developed under the modified scheme for semiconductor ATMP, or Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging. Also read: Not about China? Why India joining Pax Silica alliance on rare earths supply chain, chip making and AI is a big deal What will the OSAT facility make? The facility aims to enhance high-end manufacturing capabilities in sectors such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops and automotive electronics. It will focus on display driver integrated circuits for smartphones, laptops, automotive applications and other consumer electronics, according to reports. The facility is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs for engineers, technicians and skilled professionals, and to catalyse growth in ancillary industries, design houses, R&D centres and a start-up ecosystem around semiconductors, said a release from the government. Also read: From chips to chatbots: How India is chasing AI billions India’s growth in chip ecosystem The new facility is a significant step in strengthening India’s self-reliance and its presence in the global chip ecosystem. It will help India reduce import dependence, build resilient supply chains and promote innovation, skill development and technology transfer. The new facility aligns with government initiatives such as Make in India and Digital India, as well as Atmanirbhar Bharat, or a self-reliant India.

<p>Prime Minister Modi attended the groundbreaking ceremony of a new semiconductor facility in Uttar Pradesh. The HCL and Foxconn joint venture boosts India’s chip manufacturing, self-reliance, jobs and high-end electronics production. Here is what you should know</p>

India Chip Private Limited launched by PM Modi: Why is it important and what will it make?

<p>India on Friday (Feb 20) joined the Pax Silica alliance on rare earth elements, ending speculation about whether New Delhi had been snubbed from the pact led by the US. Oddly, the US tried to downplay analysts’ assessments that this alliance is aimed at countering China’s continuing dominance in the rare earth supply chain that affects chip manufacturing and AI computing. Here is what you should know about Pax Silica and why India joining it is significant.</p><h2>What is Pax Silica?</h2><p>Pax Silica is a US-led strategic coalition to build resilient supply chains for both critical minerals and artificial intelligence computing. The framework envisions a coalition-led economic order for the AI age, with deep economic and technological cooperation among members.</p><p>Signatories will cooperate on the making and flow of raw earth materials, semiconductors, and AI infrastructure. Experts say this is part of the broader US strategy to counter China’s dominance in high-tech sectors, particularly AI computing.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-india-joining-pax-silica-is-a-big-deal-how-india-is-positioning-itself-in-an-ai-world-1771574386678/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-india-joining-pax-silica-is-a-big-deal-how-india-is-positioning-itself-in-an-ai-world-1771574386678/embed</a></p><h2>India signs on Pax Silica</h2><p>India joined the Pax Silica alliance at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam. Indian Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg attended the signing ceremony.</p><p>Vaishnaw said that becoming part of Pax Silica will greatly benefit India’s electronics and semiconductor industry. Gor said the coalition “will define the 21st-century economic and technological order”.</p><p>“Pax Silica is a declaration that the future belongs to those who build, and when free people join forces,” said Helberg.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-pax-silica-initiative-the-us-led-grouping-that-excluded-india-china-us-modi-trump-jinping-trade-war-tariffs-semiconductor-us-hegemony-1765541403919">What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Key pillars of the Pax Silica declaration</h2><p>The Pax Silica declaration vows to build secure, resilient, and innovation-driven supply chains for critical minerals and AI. It aims to establish a durable economic order to drive AI-powered prosperity across partner nations. It recognises that reliable supply chains are indispensable to mutual economic security and that AI is a transformative force for long-term prosperity. It stresses that trustworthy systems are essential to mutual security.</p><p>The declaration seeks to promote co-investment, safeguard sensitive technologies from foreign control, and build trusted digital infrastructure.</p><h2>Why India joining Pax Silica is significant</h2><p>India’s participation is being seen as a major win for the US in the race to shape access to advanced semiconductors and AI infrastructure supply chains.</p><p>India is a BRICS member, of which China is also part. New Delhi’s alignment with a US-led technology bloc is therefore geopolitically notable.</p><p>India is pushing to become a chip-making hub. India’s first semiconductor plant is set to begin commercial production soon. Currently, 2nm chips are being designed in India.</p><p>The US State Department recently announced a new concierge service to help Pax Silica signatories acquire US-made AI semiconductors more efficiently. This aligns with India’s push to become a global semiconductor and electronics manufacturing hub.</p><h2>The original idea of Pax Silica had excluded India</h2><p>The first Pax Silica summit was held on 12 December 2024 at the Donald J Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, DC.</p><p>Besides the US, the original founding members of the alliance are Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. India is the 10th member.</p><p>India was left out of the initial Pax Silica alliance, raising questions in diplomatic circles. The opposition Congress party at the time had criticised New Delhi’s exclusion as a setback for India’s strategic and technological ambitions.</p><h2>Not about China?</h2><p>Despite the optics, Helberg insisted that Pax Silica is “really not about China; it is about America”.</p><p>“We want to secure our supply chains,” he said.</p><p>However, the context is clear. China currently controls approximately 90 per cent of global rare earth refining — a key vulnerability the coalition seeks to address.&nbsp;</p><p>Beijing also controls critical segments of the semiconductor and AI supply chains. Pax Silica aims to reduce reliance on Chinese sources for these strategic materials and technologies.&nbsp;<br>The stress is on secure, resilient supply chains, co-investment in semiconductor manufacturing, and protection of sensitive technologies. This is clearly a signal that the intent is to counter China’s influence in high-tech sectors. India’s entry, in particular, strengthens the coalition’s geopolitical leverage given its strategic location and growing domestic semiconductor industry.</p><p>This further underscores the implicit aim to limit China’s technological and economic reach.</p>

India finally joins US-led Pax Silica alliance on rare earths and AI supply chains. This will boost semiconductor supply chains. It's a strategic move to counter China’s dominance in high-tech sectors.

India on Friday (Feb 20) joined the Pax Silica alliance on rare earth elements, ending speculation about whether New Delhi had been snubbed from the pact led by the US. Oddly, the US tried to downplay analysts’ assessments that this alliance is aimed at countering China’s continuing dominance in the rare earth supply chain that affects chip manufacturing and AI computing. Here is what you should know about Pax Silica and why India joining it is significant. What is Pax Silica? Pax Silica is a US-led strategic coalition to build resilient supply chains for both critical minerals and artificial intelligence computing. The framework envisions a coalition-led economic order for the AI age, with deep economic and technological cooperation among members. Signatories will cooperate on the making and flow of raw earth materials, semiconductors, and AI infrastructure. Experts say this is part of the broader US strategy to counter China’s dominance in high-tech sectors, particularly AI computing. https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-india-joining-pax-silica-is-a-big-deal-how-india-is-positioning-itself-in-an-ai-world-1771574386678/embed India signs on Pax Silica India joined the Pax Silica alliance at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam. Indian Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg attended the signing ceremony. Vaishnaw said that becoming part of Pax Silica will greatly benefit India’s electronics and semiconductor industry. Gor said the coalition “will define the 21st-century economic and technological order”. “Pax Silica is a declaration that the future belongs to those who build, and when free people join forces,” said Helberg. Also read: What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India Key pillars of the Pax Silica declaration The Pax Silica declaration vows to build secure, resilient, and innovation-driven supply chains for critical minerals and AI. It aims to establish a durable economic order to drive AI-powered prosperity across partner nations. It recognises that reliable supply chains are indispensable to mutual economic security and that AI is a transformative force for long-term prosperity. It stresses that trustworthy systems are essential to mutual security. The declaration seeks to promote co-investment, safeguard sensitive technologies from foreign control, and build trusted digital infrastructure. Why India joining Pax Silica is significant India’s participation is being seen as a major win for the US in the race to shape access to advanced semiconductors and AI infrastructure supply chains. India is a BRICS member, of which China is also part. New Delhi’s alignment with a US-led technology bloc is therefore geopolitically notable. India is pushing to become a chip-making hub. India’s first semiconductor plant is set to begin commercial production soon. Currently, 2nm chips are being designed in India. The US State Department recently announced a new concierge service to help Pax Silica signatories acquire US-made AI semiconductors more efficiently. This aligns with India’s push to become a global semiconductor and electronics manufacturing hub. The original idea of Pax Silica had excluded India The first Pax Silica summit was held on 12 December 2024 at the Donald J Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, DC. Besides the US, the original founding members of the alliance are Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. India is the 10th member. India was left out of the initial Pax Silica alliance, raising questions in diplomatic circles. The opposition Congress party at the time had criticised New Delhi’s exclusion as a setback for India’s strategic and technological ambitions. Not about China? Despite the optics, Helberg insisted that Pax Silica is “really not about China; it is about America”. “We want to secure our supply chains,” he said. However, the context is clear. China currently controls approximately 90 per cent of global rare earth refining — a key vulnerability the coalition seeks to address. Beijing also controls critical segments of the semiconductor and AI supply chains. Pax Silica aims to reduce reliance on Chinese sources for these strategic materials and technologies. The stress is on secure, resilient supply chains, co-investment in semiconductor manufacturing, and protection of sensitive technologies. This is clearly a signal that the intent is to counter China’s influence in high-tech sectors. India’s entry, in particular, strengthens the coalition’s geopolitical leverage given its strategic location and growing domestic semiconductor industry. This further underscores the implicit aim to limit China’s technological and economic reach.

<p>India finally joins US-led Pax Silica alliance on rare earths and AI supply chains. This will boost semiconductor supply chains. It's a strategic move to counter China’s dominance in high-tech sectors.</p>

Not about China? Why India joining Pax Silica alliance on rare earths supply chain, chip making and AI is a big deal

<p>India's Supreme Court has once again criticised pre-poll freebies, this time taking issue with plans to provide free electricity ahead of the Tamil Nadu state elections. In its observations on Thursday (Feb 19), the court said that even states that are not financially doing well are offering such freebies. &nbsp;It slammed indiscriminate free electricity and other benefits by revenue-deficient states, warning that such largesse harms economic development and work culture. But we have been here before. The apex court has often been reluctant to make any specific ruling to regulate the matter, leaving it to the election body and parliament. It leaves a grey area that often allows pre-election freebies to thrive, possibly affecting election outcomes for years now. Here is an analysis.</p><h2>What the Indian Supreme Court said on pre-election freebies</h2><p>The court agreed that freebies might be appropriate for poor people, but said that when they are given to everyone, it amounts to appeasement. It called for a re-examination of policies that are affecting progress.</p><p>“Most of the states in the country are revenue deficit states and yet they are offering such freebies,” said the court.</p><p>“The economic development of the nation will be hampered by this kind of largesse distribution. It is the state’s duty to provide welfare, but those who are enjoying freebies, is that not something which needs to be examined?,” it added.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-people-get-freebies-why-work-apex-court-8715346/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-people-get-freebies-why-work-apex-court-8715346/embed</a></p><h2>Why Indian Supreme Court made observation on freebies during elections</h2><p>Over the years, it has become very common in Indian states to offer various freebies — services and products — ahead of elections, including direct cash transfers into people's bank accounts. The court said that, as a welfare state, it is acceptable to give concessions to poor people, but even states without adequate income are offering universal freebies.</p><p>The Supreme Court bench, chaired by Chief Justice Surya Kant, was hearing a plea filed by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation. The company had challenged the 2024 central electricity reforms, which mandate strict financial discipline for power-distribution firms.</p><p>Issuing notice to the Centre in the case, the Supreme Court expressed its displeasure that such freebies are being offered not only in Tamil Nadu, but across the nation.&nbsp;</p><p>Chief Justice Surya Kant said the court is aware of what happened in the recent state elections, including direct money transfer programmes.&nbsp;</p><p>The court observed that, instead of spending money on development projects, states are using funds for large-scale freebies and salaries.</p><h2>Who will work if government gives freebies? Supreme Court's sharp rebuke&nbsp;</h2><p>If food, bicycles and electricity are given free of cost, who will go to work, the court asked.</p><p>"If you start giving free food from morning to evening, then free cycles, then free electricity, who will work? And what will happen to the work culture?”</p><p>It is fine if people who cannot afford to pay are given some concessions in electricity rates. But if it is given to everyone, what culture are we creating, asked the court, adding that those who can pay should be made to pay.&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-this-is-tax-money-supreme-court-slams-poll-eve-freebie-culture-questions-fiscal-logic-1771496414543">‘This is tax money’: Supreme Court slams poll-eve freebie culture, questions fiscal logic</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The court said: It is understandable that you want to provide, as part of a welfare system, for those who cannot pay electricity charges. But without drawing a distinction between those who can afford and those who cannot, if you start distributing… will it not amount kind of an appeasing policy?”</p><h2>Freebies politics: This is not the first time that the Indian top court took up the matter</h2><p>The Chief Justice also reminded that the various political parties offering freebies ahead of elections are currently under its examination.</p><p>Pre-poll largesse has become a malice in Indian politics, and the Supreme Court has been cognizant of the matter in the past few years.</p><p>In February 2025, the apex court criticised election-time free rations and cash transfers, saying they discourage people from working and risk creating dependency. During the hearing, the court questioned whether schemes like 'Ladli Behna' announced around elections were fostering a culture where people are unwilling to work.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-criticises-freebies-says-people-not-willing-to-work-8715261">Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In January this year, it said the issue of pre-poll freebies, including the distribution of cash and other goods, is an important matter requiring serious examination.</p><p>In January, 2022 the Supreme Court described the promise of freebies during election campaigns as a serious issue. At the time, it sought responses from the Centre and the Election Commission on regulating the practice.</p><p>In the Subramaniam Balaji case of 2013, the court declined to strike down welfare schemes involving distribution of goods like televisions and laptops. But it acknowledged concerns about freebies. It left the regulation of such promises to the Election Commission and Parliament.</p>

India's Supreme Court slammed pre-election freebies, this time in a case on free electricity in Tamil Nadu. The top court has targeted such schemes in cash or kind, warning they harm fiscal discipline, economic development and work culture

India's Supreme Court has once again criticised pre-poll freebies, this time taking issue with plans to provide free electricity ahead of the Tamil Nadu state elections. In its observations on Thursday (Feb 19), the court said that even states that are not financially doing well are offering such freebies. It slammed indiscriminate free electricity and other benefits by revenue-deficient states, warning that such largesse harms economic development and work culture. But we have been here before. The apex court has often been reluctant to make any specific ruling to regulate the matter, leaving it to the election body and parliament. It leaves a grey area that often allows pre-election freebies to thrive, possibly affecting election outcomes for years now. Here is an analysis. What the Indian Supreme Court said on pre-election freebies The court agreed that freebies might be appropriate for poor people, but said that when they are given to everyone, it amounts to appeasement. It called for a re-examination of policies that are affecting progress. “Most of the states in the country are revenue deficit states and yet they are offering such freebies,” said the court. “The economic development of the nation will be hampered by this kind of largesse distribution. It is the state’s duty to provide welfare, but those who are enjoying freebies, is that not something which needs to be examined?,” it added. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-people-get-freebies-why-work-apex-court-8715346/embed Why Indian Supreme Court made observation on freebies during elections Over the years, it has become very common in Indian states to offer various freebies — services and products — ahead of elections, including direct cash transfers into people's bank accounts. The court said that, as a welfare state, it is acceptable to give concessions to poor people, but even states without adequate income are offering universal freebies. The Supreme Court bench, chaired by Chief Justice Surya Kant, was hearing a plea filed by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation. The company had challenged the 2024 central electricity reforms, which mandate strict financial discipline for power-distribution firms. Issuing notice to the Centre in the case, the Supreme Court expressed its displeasure that such freebies are being offered not only in Tamil Nadu, but across the nation. Chief Justice Surya Kant said the court is aware of what happened in the recent state elections, including direct money transfer programmes. The court observed that, instead of spending money on development projects, states are using funds for large-scale freebies and salaries. Who will work if government gives freebies? Supreme Court's sharp rebuke If food, bicycles and electricity are given free of cost, who will go to work, the court asked. "If you start giving free food from morning to evening, then free cycles, then free electricity, who will work? And what will happen to the work culture?” It is fine if people who cannot afford to pay are given some concessions in electricity rates. But if it is given to everyone, what culture are we creating, asked the court, adding that those who can pay should be made to pay. Also read: ‘This is tax money’: Supreme Court slams poll-eve freebie culture, questions fiscal logic The court said: It is understandable that you want to provide, as part of a welfare system, for those who cannot pay electricity charges. But without drawing a distinction between those who can afford and those who cannot, if you start distributing… will it not amount kind of an appeasing policy?” Freebies politics: This is not the first time that the Indian top court took up the matter The Chief Justice also reminded that the various political parties offering freebies ahead of elections are currently under its examination. Pre-poll largesse has become a malice in Indian politics, and the Supreme Court has been cognizant of the matter in the past few years. In February 2025, the apex court criticised election-time free rations and cash transfers, saying they discourage people from working and risk creating dependency. During the hearing, the court questioned whether schemes like 'Ladli Behna' announced around elections were fostering a culture where people are unwilling to work. Also read: Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work In January this year, it said the issue of pre-poll freebies, including the distribution of cash and other goods, is an important matter requiring serious examination. In January, 2022 the Supreme Court described the promise of freebies during election campaigns as a serious issue. At the time, it sought responses from the Centre and the Election Commission on regulating the practice. In the Subramaniam Balaji case of 2013, the court declined to strike down welfare schemes involving distribution of goods like televisions and laptops. But it acknowledged concerns about freebies. It left the regulation of such promises to the Election Commission and Parliament.

<p>India's Supreme Court slammed pre-election freebies, this time in a case on free electricity in Tamil Nadu. The top court has targeted such schemes in cash or kind, warning they harm fiscal discipline, economic development and work culture</p>

Indian Supreme Court slams freebies before elections, and it's not the first time. But can anything be done about it?

<p>At the AI Impact Summit in India, at least $200 billion worth of investments in artificial intelligence have been committed, according to reports. When the commitments by the Indian and foreign governments are added, the figure could exceed $300 billion, spread over the next five to seven years.</p><h2>Most investments focus on AI infrastructure</h2><p>Around $70 billion has been firmly committed, while $90 billion was announced in recent periods.</p><p>The investment is primarily focused on AI infrastructure, data centres and compute capacity.</p><p>Starting in 2026, Reliance Industries and Jio will invest nearly $110 billion (£87 billion) over the next seven years in AI and data infrastructure. This has been described as a long-term, nation-building investment.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cold-war-on-stage-openai-anthropic-ceos-avoid-holding-hands-in-pm-modi-s-group-photo-at-india-ai-summit-watch-1771498694985">Cold war on stage? OpenAI, Anthropic CEOs avoid holding hands in PM Modi's group photo at India AI Summit | WATCH</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Adani Group will invest up to $150 billion through 2035 in renewable energy-powered AI data centres and related sectors such as server manufacturing and sovereign cloud services.</p><p>Microsoft reportedly plans to commit $50 billion by 2030 for AI expansion in the ‘Global South’. Of this, $17.5 billion is earmarked specifically for India.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-india-ai-impact-summit-altman-amodei-skip-unity-gesture-at-delhi-summit-1771564498607/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-india-ai-impact-summit-altman-amodei-skip-unity-gesture-at-delhi-summit-1771564498607/embed</a></p><h2>Start-ups and legacy companies increasing AI investments in India</h2><p>Indian data centre firm Yotta Infrastructure is investing $2 billion (£1.6 billion) in an AI hub and computing infrastructure.</p><p>Smaller or partnership-focused deals have also been reported. For instance, Blackstone is leading a $600 million investment in AI cloud start-up Neysa.</p><p>AMD is entering into partnerships to develop AI infrastructure in India.</p><p>Google has made a $15 billion commitment to India, which includes AI data centres and an undersea cable project.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-first-china-now-korea-ai-summit-turns-into-a-disaster-as-university-caught-faking-in-house-drone-soccer-after-robodog-fiasco-1771411766909">'First China, now Korea': AI Summit turns into a disaster as university caught faking ‘in-house’ drone soccer after robodog fiasco</a></p><h2>Indian government commitments add to the AI investment boom</h2><p>Indian government initiatives such as the IndiaAI Mission have allocated around ₹10,300 crore ($1.24 billion).</p><p>Several foreign governments have also made broader investment commitments in India.</p><p>When all this is combined, the overall total commitment could be between 25.5 trillion rupees ($307 billion) and 58.2 trillion rupees, ($701 billion) in the long term, accoridng to multiple media reports.</p>

India AI Impact Summit: Up to $300 billion in AI investments have been committed or announced in India by companies and governments. The investments include infrastructure and data centres, positioning India as a major global AI hub.

At the AI Impact Summit in India, at least $200 billion worth of investments in artificial intelligence have been committed, according to reports. When the commitments by the Indian and foreign governments are added, the figure could exceed $300 billion, spread over the next five to seven years. Most investments focus on AI infrastructure Around $70 billion has been firmly committed, while $90 billion was announced in recent periods. The investment is primarily focused on AI infrastructure, data centres and compute capacity. Starting in 2026, Reliance Industries and Jio will invest nearly $110 billion (£87 billion) over the next seven years in AI and data infrastructure. This has been described as a long-term, nation-building investment. Also read: Cold war on stage? OpenAI, Anthropic CEOs avoid holding hands in PM Modi's group photo at India AI Summit | WATCH The Adani Group will invest up to $150 billion through 2035 in renewable energy-powered AI data centres and related sectors such as server manufacturing and sovereign cloud services. Microsoft reportedly plans to commit $50 billion by 2030 for AI expansion in the ‘Global South’. Of this, $17.5 billion is earmarked specifically for India. https://www.wionews.com/videos/-india-ai-impact-summit-altman-amodei-skip-unity-gesture-at-delhi-summit-1771564498607/embed Start-ups and legacy companies increasing AI investments in India Indian data centre firm Yotta Infrastructure is investing $2 billion (£1.6 billion) in an AI hub and computing infrastructure. Smaller or partnership-focused deals have also been reported. For instance, Blackstone is leading a $600 million investment in AI cloud start-up Neysa. AMD is entering into partnerships to develop AI infrastructure in India. Google has made a $15 billion commitment to India, which includes AI data centres and an undersea cable project. Also read: 'First China, now Korea': AI Summit turns into a disaster as university caught faking ‘in-house’ drone soccer after robodog fiasco Indian government commitments add to the AI investment boom Indian government initiatives such as the IndiaAI Mission have allocated around ₹10,300 crore ($1.24 billion). Several foreign governments have also made broader investment commitments in India. When all this is combined, the overall total commitment could be between 25.5 trillion rupees ($307 billion) and 58.2 trillion rupees, ($701 billion) in the long term, accoridng to multiple media reports.

<p><strong>India AI Impact Summit: </strong>Up to $300 billion in AI investments have been committed or announced in India by companies and governments. The investments include infrastructure and data centres, positioning India as a major global AI hub.</p>

India AI Impact Summit: $300 billion worth of AI investments committed in India, say reports

<p>With at least 11 mentions of AI in the Union Budget 2026–27, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stressed how technology is a key driver of economic growth and announced significant allocations and initiatives targeted at the information technology and AI sectors. A key vision of the budget she presented on Sunday (Feb 1) was to “Make AI in India and Make AI work for India”, with several proposals aimed at creating a robust AI ecosystem while addressing challenges related to jobs, skills and infrastructure.</p><h2>Measures to boost semiconductor production and data centres</h2><p>Boosting the fledgling semiconductor sector in India, attracting investments in data centres, increasing research funding and promoting sector-specific AI applications are among the key proposals in the budget.&nbsp;</p><p>A total R&amp;D fund of ₹1 trillion has been spread over six years, out of which ₹20,000 crore has already been deployed.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/budget-2026-24-82-crore-indians-escaped-multidimensional-poverty-under-modi-govt-sitharaman-tells-parliament-1769926760965">Union Budget 2026 | 'Ambitious and aspirational': PM Modi hails FM Sitharaman's 'futuristic' budget</a></p><h2>AI as the catalyst for India's growth</h2><p>This year's budget saw the highest number of mentions of AI to date, with focus across governance, agriculture, healthcare and education.</p><p>The budget will continue supporting the IndiaAI Mission with an allocation of ₹2,000 crore, alongside the National Quantum Mission with ₹6,003 crore.</p><p>These initiatives, along with the Anusandhan National Research Fund, aim to promote AI adoption, research and development, and commercialisation in priority areas such as quantum computing, biotechnology, the digital economy and deep technologies.</p><p>In the agriculture sector, the budget envisions Bharat-VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources), a new multilingual AI tool integrating AgriStack portals and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) packages. This system is intended to provide customised advisory support, enhance farm productivity and reduce risks for farmers.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/union-budget-2026-what-gets-cheaper-and-what-becomes-costlier-1769919522225">Union Budget 2026: What gets cheaper and what becomes costlier</a></p><h2>A committee on AI impact on economy</h2><p>A High-Powered Standing Committee has been proposed to assess the impact of AI and emerging technologies on jobs, skills and the services sector. This includes embedding AI in education, teacher training, reskilling technology professionals and labour market analysis.</p><p>The budget has also allocated ₹500 crore for AI Centres of Excellence and envisions the establishment of 80 IndiaAI Labs to foster innovation and skills development.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-budget-2026-sitharaman-unveils-tax-overhaul-infra-mega-spend-1769937689215/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-budget-2026-sitharaman-unveils-tax-overhaul-infra-mega-spend-1769937689215/embed</a></p><h2>AI applications ranging from governance to logistics; Deep Tech Fund and Semiconductor Mission 2.0</h2><p>The budget views AI as a “force multiplier” for public service delivery in governance, healthcare, logistics and agriculture.</p><p>It also highlights AI-driven solutions for energy transition, climate action and strategic sectors such as defence and space.</p><p>A Deep Tech Fund has been proposed as part of efforts to position India as a global AI leader, dedicated to supporting AI and deep-tech start-ups.</p><h2>Proposals for information technology: tax incentives, infrastructure boosts and reforms</h2><p>The India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 was mentioned in the budget, with Phase II focusing on producing semiconductor equipment and materials, designing full-stack Indian intellectual property, strengthening supply chains, and establishing industry-led research and training centres for skilled workforce development.</p><p>To support self-reliance in hardware, a budget allocation of ₹40,000 crore was made for the manufacture of electronic components, nearly doubling the outlay under previous schemes.</p><h2>Tax holiday for data centres and cloud services; safe harbour reforms for IT</h2><p>A tax holiday until 2047 for foreign companies providing cloud services through Indian data centres or resellers featured prominently in the budget.&nbsp;</p><p>The proposals include a 15 per cent safe harbour margin for related entities to attract global investment and strengthen India’s digital infrastructure.</p><p>For safe harbour computation, software development, IT-enabled services (ITES), knowledge process outsourcing (KPO) and contract R&amp;D will be consolidated under a single “Information Technology Services” category. The uniform safe harbour margin will be 15.5 per cent, while the eligibility threshold has been raised from ₹300 crore to ₹2,000 crore to benefit more firms and reduce tax disputes.</p><h2>Creative economy boost: The orange sector gets a mention</h2><p>The finance minister also acknowledged the creator economy, or orange economy, encompassing animation, visual effects, gaming and comics (AVGC).</p><p>The budget proposals for this sector includesestablishing labs in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges to build talent capacity and address a projected demand for 2 million professionals by 2030.</p><h2>IT in the broader economy</h2><p>The integration of AI and IT in areas such as rare earths, biopharma and cybersecurity was also mentioned in the budget.</p><p>Overall, the minister appears to have emphasised a push towards an “intelligence-first” economy, combining immediate incentives with long-term investments to position India as a global hub for IT and AI.</p>

India Budget 2026 had an unprecedented focus on AI and IT as growth drivers. Tax incentives, funding boost, semiconductor push, data centre reforms, and safe harbour reforms are among the proposals. 

With at least 11 mentions of AI in the Union Budget 2026–27, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stressed how technology is a key driver of economic growth and announced significant allocations and initiatives targeted at the information technology and AI sectors. A key vision of the budget she presented on Sunday (Feb 1) was to “Make AI in India and Make AI work for India”, with several proposals aimed at creating a robust AI ecosystem while addressing challenges related to jobs, skills and infrastructure. Measures to boost semiconductor production and data centres Boosting the fledgling semiconductor sector in India, attracting investments in data centres, increasing research funding and promoting sector-specific AI applications are among the key proposals in the budget. A total R&D fund of ₹1 trillion has been spread over six years, out of which ₹20,000 crore has already been deployed. Also read: Union Budget 2026 | 'Ambitious and aspirational': PM Modi hails FM Sitharaman's 'futuristic' budget AI as the catalyst for India's growth This year's budget saw the highest number of mentions of AI to date, with focus across governance, agriculture, healthcare and education. The budget will continue supporting the IndiaAI Mission with an allocation of ₹2,000 crore, alongside the National Quantum Mission with ₹6,003 crore. These initiatives, along with the Anusandhan National Research Fund, aim to promote AI adoption, research and development, and commercialisation in priority areas such as quantum computing, biotechnology, the digital economy and deep technologies. In the agriculture sector, the budget envisions Bharat-VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources), a new multilingual AI tool integrating AgriStack portals and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) packages. This system is intended to provide customised advisory support, enhance farm productivity and reduce risks for farmers. Also read: Union Budget 2026: What gets cheaper and what becomes costlier A committee on AI impact on economy A High-Powered Standing Committee has been proposed to assess the impact of AI and emerging technologies on jobs, skills and the services sector. This includes embedding AI in education, teacher training, reskilling technology professionals and labour market analysis. The budget has also allocated ₹500 crore for AI Centres of Excellence and envisions the establishment of 80 IndiaAI Labs to foster innovation and skills development. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-budget-2026-sitharaman-unveils-tax-overhaul-infra-mega-spend-1769937689215/embed AI applications ranging from governance to logistics; Deep Tech Fund and Semiconductor Mission 2.0 The budget views AI as a “force multiplier” for public service delivery in governance, healthcare, logistics and agriculture. It also highlights AI-driven solutions for energy transition, climate action and strategic sectors such as defence and space. A Deep Tech Fund has been proposed as part of efforts to position India as a global AI leader, dedicated to supporting AI and deep-tech start-ups. Proposals for information technology: tax incentives, infrastructure boosts and reforms The India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 was mentioned in the budget, with Phase II focusing on producing semiconductor equipment and materials, designing full-stack Indian intellectual property, strengthening supply chains, and establishing industry-led research and training centres for skilled workforce development. To support self-reliance in hardware, a budget allocation of ₹40,000 crore was made for the manufacture of electronic components, nearly doubling the outlay under previous schemes. Tax holiday for data centres and cloud services; safe harbour reforms for IT A tax holiday until 2047 for foreign companies providing cloud services through Indian data centres or resellers featured prominently in the budget. The proposals include a 15 per cent safe harbour margin for related entities to attract global investment and strengthen India’s digital infrastructure. For safe harbour computation, software development, IT-enabled services (ITES), knowledge process outsourcing (KPO) and contract R&D will be consolidated under a single “Information Technology Services” category. The uniform safe harbour margin will be 15.5 per cent, while the eligibility threshold has been raised from ₹300 crore to ₹2,000 crore to benefit more firms and reduce tax disputes. Creative economy boost: The orange sector gets a mention The finance minister also acknowledged the creator economy, or orange economy, encompassing animation, visual effects, gaming and comics (AVGC). The budget proposals for this sector includesestablishing labs in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges to build talent capacity and address a projected demand for 2 million professionals by 2030. IT in the broader economy The integration of AI and IT in areas such as rare earths, biopharma and cybersecurity was also mentioned in the budget. Overall, the minister appears to have emphasised a push towards an “intelligence-first” economy, combining immediate incentives with long-term investments to position India as a global hub for IT and AI.

<p>India Budget 2026 had an unprecedented focus on AI and IT as growth drivers. Tax incentives, funding boost, semiconductor push, data centre reforms, and safe harbour reforms are among the proposals. Here is a roundup</p>

India Budget 2026 had 11 mentions of Artificial Intelligence: What are the AI- and IT-linked proposals by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman?

<p>Recent meetings between Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) representatives and Trump officials have led to the Canadian prime minister schooling the province on sovereignty and the British Columbia Premier calling out ‘treason’. The angle of this story is that US President Donald Trump, or his proxies, are encouraging resource-rich Alberta to break away from Canada. But in India, the irony was not lost on many that Canada, which hosts many Sikh Khalistani separatists, is now getting a taste of its own medicine on separatism. What is the Alberta Prosperity Project? What do they want? How is the US helping them in their independence bid? And what are Canadian leaders saying about the situation? Here is what you should know.</p><h2>What is Alberta Prosperity Project (APP)?</h2><p>APP, founded in 2021, promotes Alberta’s “prosperity, self-determination, and independence” from Canada, over frustrations with federal policies under former prime minister Justin Trudeau and current Prime Minister Mark Carney. Their liberal policies were detrimental to Alberta’s oil industry, such as climate regulations and resource management that prevented energy trade arising from its oil sand deposits.&nbsp;</p><p>The APP educates Albertans and mobilises them on ideas around faith, family, freedom, low taxes, property rights, and resource ownership, as per its website. With a mission to restructure Alberta’s relationship with Canada, APP advocates for full sovereignty, making it a key player in Alberta separatism.</p><p>The group is currently campaigning for Alberta to hold a referendum on secession from Canada to become an independent sovereign nation. APP has been described in various media accounts as a “fringe separatist group” or “far-right separatists”. But it rejects “separatist conspiracy myths” on its website, while promoting Alberta as a “free and independent” entity.</p><p>Recent polling suggested that nearly 30 per cent of Albertans might support starting a separation process, but most prefer staying in Canada.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-s-pm-carney-likely-to-visit-india-in-march-as-trade-diversification-grows-wion-1769484957486/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-s-pm-carney-likely-to-visit-india-in-march-as-trade-diversification-grows-wion-1769484957486/embed</a></p><h2>APP meetings with Trump officials</h2><p>APP leaders met with US State Department officials three times in Washington, DC, since April 2025. These meetings were exploratory in nature, looking at the feasibility of the US giving a $500 billion credit line to support an independent Alberta.</p><p>The fourth such meeting is set for January, this time with both State and US Treasury officials, to discuss financial support. The White House, while confirming the meetings, called them routine engagements with civil society groups, with “no support or commitments conveyed”.</p><p>Meanwhile, APP legal counsel and top leader Jeffrey Rath said US officials were “extremely enthusiastic” about the prospects of cooperation. President Trump has not raised Alberta separatism publicly, but Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in an interview this month, called Alberta a “natural partner for the US”, and said Albertans are “very independent people” who may seek sovereignty.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-declares-war-on-canadian-planes-threatens-bombardiers-and-other-aircraft-with-50-tariffs-1769739951858">Trump declares war on Canadian planes, threatens Bombardiers and other aircraft with 50% tariffs</a></p><h2>What does Alberta Prosperity Project want?</h2><p>Alberta’s full independence is the main aim of APP, in order to create a prosperous, low-regulation society. The group is seeking a referendum on independence with the question on the ballot whether Alberta should “cease to be a part of Canada to become an independent state”.</p><p>APP wants to stop sending $68–75 billion in annual federal tax to Ottawa, eliminate personal income taxes by 2030, and create an Alberta Pension Plan worth $183 billion, according to reports. It wants Albertans to manage their own natural resources, energy, and agriculture independently.</p><p>A new Alberta Constitution is envisioned, recognising the “supremacy of God”, equal rights, and family as society’s pillar. The draft constitution would call the significant Indigenous populations of Alberta co-equal partners. APP wants the lowest taxes and regulations in the world, balanced budgets, the right to recall elected officials, and protections for freedoms like religion, expression, and self-defence, including gun rights.</p><p>Last December, Elections Alberta approved the APP-backed citizen initiative petition. APP would need around 177,000 valid signatures to trigger a fall 2026 referendum, and in the process of achieving this.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-transnational-violent-criminal-canada-s-alberta-province-joins-call-to-designate-lawrence-bishnoi-gang-a-terrorist-outfit-1752634178919">'Transnational, violent, criminal': Canada's Alberta province joins call to designate Lawrence Bishnoi gang a terrorist outfit</a></p><h2>US involvement in Alberta sparks backlash: How Carney and others responded</h2><p>Canadian PM Carney said, “We expect the US administration to respect Canadian sovereignty. I’m always clear in my conversations with President Trump to that effect.”</p><p>On Thursday (Jan 29), British Columbia Premier David Eby called the APP’s actions ‘treason’. “To go to a foreign country and to ask for assistance in breaking up Canada, there’s an old-fashioned word for that, and that word is treason,” Eby said.</p><p>But Alberta Premier Danielle Smith sought non-interference, saying that discussions about Alberta’s future should be left to Albertans. Ontario Premier Doug Ford urged Smith to denounce separatists, saying “enough is enough”, but Rath dismissed treason claims as “stupid” and “childish”. Canadian labour groups condemned US “interference” in the nation's affairs, in the context of APP meetings with American officials.</p>

Canadian leaders are condemning Alberta separatists for meeting Trump officials. But the irony is that Canada hosted Sikh separatists for decades. It's time to understand why the Alberta Prosperity Project or APP seeks independence from Canada

Recent meetings between Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) representatives and Trump officials have led to the Canadian prime minister schooling the province on sovereignty and the British Columbia Premier calling out ‘treason’. The angle of this story is that US President Donald Trump, or his proxies, are encouraging resource-rich Alberta to break away from Canada. But in India, the irony was not lost on many that Canada, which hosts many Sikh Khalistani separatists, is now getting a taste of its own medicine on separatism. What is the Alberta Prosperity Project? What do they want? How is the US helping them in their independence bid? And what are Canadian leaders saying about the situation? Here is what you should know. What is Alberta Prosperity Project (APP)? APP, founded in 2021, promotes Alberta’s “prosperity, self-determination, and independence” from Canada, over frustrations with federal policies under former prime minister Justin Trudeau and current Prime Minister Mark Carney. Their liberal policies were detrimental to Alberta’s oil industry, such as climate regulations and resource management that prevented energy trade arising from its oil sand deposits. The APP educates Albertans and mobilises them on ideas around faith, family, freedom, low taxes, property rights, and resource ownership, as per its website. With a mission to restructure Alberta’s relationship with Canada, APP advocates for full sovereignty, making it a key player in Alberta separatism. The group is currently campaigning for Alberta to hold a referendum on secession from Canada to become an independent sovereign nation. APP has been described in various media accounts as a “fringe separatist group” or “far-right separatists”. But it rejects “separatist conspiracy myths” on its website, while promoting Alberta as a “free and independent” entity. Recent polling suggested that nearly 30 per cent of Albertans might support starting a separation process, but most prefer staying in Canada. https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-s-pm-carney-likely-to-visit-india-in-march-as-trade-diversification-grows-wion-1769484957486/embed APP meetings with Trump officials APP leaders met with US State Department officials three times in Washington, DC, since April 2025. These meetings were exploratory in nature, looking at the feasibility of the US giving a $500 billion credit line to support an independent Alberta. The fourth such meeting is set for January, this time with both State and US Treasury officials, to discuss financial support. The White House, while confirming the meetings, called them routine engagements with civil society groups, with “no support or commitments conveyed”. Meanwhile, APP legal counsel and top leader Jeffrey Rath said US officials were “extremely enthusiastic” about the prospects of cooperation. President Trump has not raised Alberta separatism publicly, but Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in an interview this month, called Alberta a “natural partner for the US”, and said Albertans are “very independent people” who may seek sovereignty. Also read: Trump declares war on Canadian planes, threatens Bombardiers and other aircraft with 50% tariffs What does Alberta Prosperity Project want? Alberta’s full independence is the main aim of APP, in order to create a prosperous, low-regulation society. The group is seeking a referendum on independence with the question on the ballot whether Alberta should “cease to be a part of Canada to become an independent state”. APP wants to stop sending $68–75 billion in annual federal tax to Ottawa, eliminate personal income taxes by 2030, and create an Alberta Pension Plan worth $183 billion, according to reports. It wants Albertans to manage their own natural resources, energy, and agriculture independently. A new Alberta Constitution is envisioned, recognising the “supremacy of God”, equal rights, and family as society’s pillar. The draft constitution would call the significant Indigenous populations of Alberta co-equal partners. APP wants the lowest taxes and regulations in the world, balanced budgets, the right to recall elected officials, and protections for freedoms like religion, expression, and self-defence, including gun rights. Last December, Elections Alberta approved the APP-backed citizen initiative petition. APP would need around 177,000 valid signatures to trigger a fall 2026 referendum, and in the process of achieving this. Also read: 'Transnational, violent, criminal': Canada's Alberta province joins call to designate Lawrence Bishnoi gang a terrorist outfit US involvement in Alberta sparks backlash: How Carney and others responded Canadian PM Carney said, “We expect the US administration to respect Canadian sovereignty. I’m always clear in my conversations with President Trump to that effect.” On Thursday (Jan 29), British Columbia Premier David Eby called the APP’s actions ‘treason’. “To go to a foreign country and to ask for assistance in breaking up Canada, there’s an old-fashioned word for that, and that word is treason,” Eby said. But Alberta Premier Danielle Smith sought non-interference, saying that discussions about Alberta’s future should be left to Albertans. Ontario Premier Doug Ford urged Smith to denounce separatists, saying “enough is enough”, but Rath dismissed treason claims as “stupid” and “childish”. Canadian labour groups condemned US “interference” in the nation's affairs, in the context of APP meetings with American officials.

<p>Canadian leaders are condemning Alberta separatists for meeting Trump officials. But the irony is that Canada hosted Sikh separatists for decades. It's time to understand why the Alberta Prosperity Project or APP seeks independence from Canada</p>

Treason much? Canada, host of Sikh separatists, cries ‘sovereignty’ as Alberta independence group meets Trump officials

<p>Despite the debate that Artificial Intelligence firms are in a bubble that would burst soon, several of them are preparing for IPOs. In the US, the contest is mainly between OpenAI and its closest rivals. In China, some big names in the industry, collectively known as ‘AI Tigers’, have either already listed or are in the process. Billions, and possibly trillions, of dollars are at stake. Here is an update.</p><h2>OpenAI IPO: Plans to beat Anthropic</h2><p>OpenAI, the company behind the popular chatbot ChatGPT, wants to go public by the last quarter of 2026 and is trying to beat Anthropic to become the first major generative AI startup to IPO in the US. Valued at around $830 billion, which could rise to $1 trillion at listing, OpenAI has been on a fundraising spree. Major funders include Microsoft and SoftBank, with possible involvement from Amazon as well. This is despite OpenAI projecting cumulative losses of $115 billion through 2029, against annual revenue projections of around $20 billion.</p><h2>Anthropic is readying for an IPO</h2><p>Anthropic, the company behind the Claude AI models, is planning an IPO by mid-2026. Its valuation is around $350 billion following a $10 bn funding round. Anthropic’s investors include Microsoft, Nvidia and Amazon. Revenue is projected to reach $26 billion this year.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-enacts-ai-act-after-deepfake-menance-shocks-world-1769745050466/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-enacts-ai-act-after-deepfake-menance-shocks-world-1769745050466/embed</a></p><h2>Musk wants an xAI IPO along with SpaceX: The mother of all AI IPOs?</h2><p>Elon Musk’s AI company xAI, which is behind the controversial Grok chatbot, is in merger discussions with SpaceX, his space exploration company. The plan appears to be a combined IPO in mid-2026. The combined entity could be valued at $1 trillion. However, xAI is valued at a much lower $230 billion as a standalone company. The AI firm has recently raised $20 billion in a Series E round and has a $2 billion funding commitment from SpaceX. Nvidia and Cisco are among its strategic investors.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-generated-content-will-shape-the-future-of-social-media-says-mark-zuckerberg-1769668052622">AI-generated content will shape the future of social media, says Mark Zuckerberg</a></p><h2>Databricks, Cerebras Systems, Cohere and other potential IPO candidates</h2><p>AI infrastructure provider Databricks could IPO, with its valuation having reached $134 billion in 2025. The company is backed by Nvidia, Microsoft and Amazon, with a revenue run rate of around $4.8 billion.</p><p>AI chipmaker Cerebras Systems, which is focused on high-performance GPUs, could IPO in the second quarter of 2026. Valued at around $8.1 billion, Cerebras has investors including Fidelity, Sequoia Capital, Foundation Capital, Eclipse, Coatue and Benchmark.</p><p>The enterprise-focused AI model developer Cohere is another IPO candidate this year, with a $7 billion valuation and $150 million in annual recurring revenue.</p><p>Groq, the company that makes AI chips (and is unrelated to Grok), and AI robotics firm Figure AI are also holding pre-IPO discussions, without confirmed IPO dates.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-120-billion-ai-bubble-at-risk-ibm-ceo-says-ai-bubble-could-burst-soon-1769682978130">$120 billion AI bubble at risk? IBM CEO says AI bubble could burst soon</a></p><h2>Meanwhile in China: Another AI IPO boom is underway, with some already listed</h2><p>China is the other major market seeing a scramble for AI IPOs, led by generative “AI tigers” and AI chip companies. Some have already gone public, while others are preparing to IPO.</p><p>Among the first to go public was Zhipu AI, a leading “AI tiger” that developed the GLM family of large language models (LLMs). It became the world’s first major LLM company to go public on January 8, with shares closing 13.2 per cent higher on debut. The company is valued at approximately $6.7 billion post-IPO.</p><p>MiniMax, another “AI tiger”, known for video generation as well as multimodal AI across text, image and voice, completed its Hong Kong IPO on January 9. Shares of the company behind Talkie AI and Hailuo AI surged 109 per cent on debut, with a current post-IPO valuation of around $13.7 billion. Alibaba is its largest investor, while other backers include Tencent, Hillhouse Capital, Future Capital, Xiaomi, Xiaohongshu, Shunwei and IDG.</p><p>Moonshot AI, which is behind the Kimi chatbot, could IPO later in 2026.</p><p>Major Chinese semiconductor companies are also going public. Kunlunxin, the AI chip unit of Baidu, which is developing chips to rival Nvidia, has plans for a Hong Kong IPO in 2026.&nbsp;</p><p>T-Head, Alibaba’s chip unit, could pursue a spinoff IPO. Montage Technology, another AI chip designer for data centres and servers, is pursuing a secondary listing on the Hong Kong Exchange in February. Axera Semiconductor, a maker of AI inference chips, is also set to list in Hong Kong in February</p>

Despite talk of a bubble, AI firms are rushing towards IPOs in the US and China. In the US, the race is between OpenAI, and its competitors like Anthropic and xAI. In China, AI Tigers' and chipmakers are listing fast with big valuations

Despite the debate that Artificial Intelligence firms are in a bubble that would burst soon, several of them are preparing for IPOs. In the US, the contest is mainly between OpenAI and its closest rivals. In China, some big names in the industry, collectively known as ‘AI Tigers’, have either already listed or are in the process. Billions, and possibly trillions, of dollars are at stake. Here is an update. OpenAI IPO: Plans to beat Anthropic OpenAI, the company behind the popular chatbot ChatGPT, wants to go public by the last quarter of 2026 and is trying to beat Anthropic to become the first major generative AI startup to IPO in the US. Valued at around $830 billion, which could rise to $1 trillion at listing, OpenAI has been on a fundraising spree. Major funders include Microsoft and SoftBank, with possible involvement from Amazon as well. This is despite OpenAI projecting cumulative losses of $115 billion through 2029, against annual revenue projections of around $20 billion. Anthropic is readying for an IPO Anthropic, the company behind the Claude AI models, is planning an IPO by mid-2026. Its valuation is around $350 billion following a $10 bn funding round. Anthropic’s investors include Microsoft, Nvidia and Amazon. Revenue is projected to reach $26 billion this year. https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-enacts-ai-act-after-deepfake-menance-shocks-world-1769745050466/embed Musk wants an xAI IPO along with SpaceX: The mother of all AI IPOs? Elon Musk’s AI company xAI, which is behind the controversial Grok chatbot, is in merger discussions with SpaceX, his space exploration company. The plan appears to be a combined IPO in mid-2026. The combined entity could be valued at $1 trillion. However, xAI is valued at a much lower $230 billion as a standalone company. The AI firm has recently raised $20 billion in a Series E round and has a $2 billion funding commitment from SpaceX. Nvidia and Cisco are among its strategic investors. Also read: AI-generated content will shape the future of social media, says Mark Zuckerberg Databricks, Cerebras Systems, Cohere and other potential IPO candidates AI infrastructure provider Databricks could IPO, with its valuation having reached $134 billion in 2025. The company is backed by Nvidia, Microsoft and Amazon, with a revenue run rate of around $4.8 billion. AI chipmaker Cerebras Systems, which is focused on high-performance GPUs, could IPO in the second quarter of 2026. Valued at around $8.1 billion, Cerebras has investors including Fidelity, Sequoia Capital, Foundation Capital, Eclipse, Coatue and Benchmark. The enterprise-focused AI model developer Cohere is another IPO candidate this year, with a $7 billion valuation and $150 million in annual recurring revenue. Groq, the company that makes AI chips (and is unrelated to Grok), and AI robotics firm Figure AI are also holding pre-IPO discussions, without confirmed IPO dates. Also read: $120 billion AI bubble at risk? IBM CEO says AI bubble could burst soon Meanwhile in China: Another AI IPO boom is underway, with some already listed China is the other major market seeing a scramble for AI IPOs, led by generative “AI tigers” and AI chip companies. Some have already gone public, while others are preparing to IPO. Among the first to go public was Zhipu AI, a leading “AI tiger” that developed the GLM family of large language models (LLMs). It became the world’s first major LLM company to go public on January 8, with shares closing 13.2 per cent higher on debut. The company is valued at approximately $6.7 billion post-IPO. MiniMax, another “AI tiger”, known for video generation as well as multimodal AI across text, image and voice, completed its Hong Kong IPO on January 9. Shares of the company behind Talkie AI and Hailuo AI surged 109 per cent on debut, with a current post-IPO valuation of around $13.7 billion. Alibaba is its largest investor, while other backers include Tencent, Hillhouse Capital, Future Capital, Xiaomi, Xiaohongshu, Shunwei and IDG. Moonshot AI, which is behind the Kimi chatbot, could IPO later in 2026. Major Chinese semiconductor companies are also going public. Kunlunxin, the AI chip unit of Baidu, which is developing chips to rival Nvidia, has plans for a Hong Kong IPO in 2026. T-Head, Alibaba’s chip unit, could pursue a spinoff IPO. Montage Technology, another AI chip designer for data centres and servers, is pursuing a secondary listing on the Hong Kong Exchange in February. Axera Semiconductor, a maker of AI inference chips, is also set to list in Hong Kong in February

<p>Despite talk of a bubble, AI firms are rushing towards IPOs in the US and China. In the US, the race is between OpenAI, and its competitors like Anthropic and xAI. In China, AI Tigers' and chipmakers are listing fast with big valuations</p>

AI bubble, what bubble? American AI firms are racing for IPOs; some Chinese ‘AI Tigers’ already listed, others in pipeline

<p>The India Economic Survey 2026 , released on Thursday (Jan 29), notes that global headwinds led mainly by Trump tariffs, trade wars, geopolitical instability and protectionalism are risks, even as domestic demand remains strong. The Survey, tabled in parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ahead of Union Budget 2026, states that rupee volatility and inconclusive trade talks with the US are external risks. Here are the key global aspects affecting India, as per the Economic Survey</p><h2>Indian economy thriving amid a fragile and uncertain global backdrop</h2><p>The Survey flags slower growth in major economies, trade disruptions, and heightened geopolitical uncertainty. Weaker growth among key trading partners could affect India’s export momentum and external demand. The global shocks could affect capital flows, exchange rates, and financial market sentiment.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-can-india-become-the-third-largest-economy-1768976462733/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-can-india-become-the-third-largest-economy-1768976462733/embed</a></p><h2>Trump tariff effect: How US trade policy is affecting the Indian economy</h2><p>The Survey highlights the impact of US trade policy under President Donald Trump, including the imposition of a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff along with an additional 25 per cent penalty (for buying Russian oil) on several Indian exports during 2025. These punitive measures created uncertainty for exporters.</p><p>Despite this, the Survey notes that India’s export performance remained relatively resilient due to diversification of markets, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and West Asia.</p><p>Tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and strategic trade policies are increasingly being used as geopolitical tools, leading to uncertainty in global supply chains and weakening the predictability of trade flows.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/economic-survey-2025-26-tabled-in-lok-sabha-india-needs-8-growth-to-achieve-viksit-bharat-dream-by-2047-what-it-says-about-india-s-growth-outlook-1769670492894">India needs 8% growth to achieve ‘Viksit Bharat’ dream by 2047; Here's what Economic Survey 2025–26 says about India growth outlook</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Rupee volatility as a global risk channel</h2><p>The Survey highlights heightened volatility in the Indian rupee as a consequence of global shocks.</p><p>The Indian rupee fell to record lows in early 2026, driven by foreign portfolio outflows, importer demand for dollars, and uncertainty linked to US tariffs and global risk aversion.</p><p>While the Survey notes that rupee volatility reflects global financial stress, it adds that this has not materially damaged India’s growth outlook so far. In fact, rupee depreciation has partly cushioned exporters by offsetting some of the tariff-related cost pressures. However, the Survey cautions that sustained currency volatility could affect capital flows, inflation expectations, and external financing conditions.</p><h2>There is a catch: Full impact of global shocks might be felt only after some time</h2><p>The Survey issues a warning that global shocks often affect India with a lag. Even if near-term growth appears resilient, global disruptions could gradually affect exports, investment flows, technology transfers, and financial markets. Trade shocks, in particular, may show delayed effects as contracts adjust and supply chains reconfigure over time.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/economic-survey-2025-26-big-takeaways-growth-to-remain-steady-but-external-risks-a-worry-1769674329693">Economic Survey 2025-26 big takeaways: Growth to remain steady but external risks a worry</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Domestic demand as the silver lining</h2><p>Strong domestic demand is highlighted as a key buffer against global headwinds. Private consumption, public investment, and domestic capital formation continue to support growth even as external demand remains uncertain, according to the Survey.</p><p>The Survey’s growth projection for India, at around 6.8 to 7.2 per cent for FY27, is driven primarily by domestic demand rather than external conditions.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gdp-growth-lower-deficit-strong-exports-set-budget-2026-tone-key-numbers-from-economic-survey-1769666745991">GDP growth, lower deficit, strong exports set Budget 2026 tone -- Key numbers from Economic Survey</a></p><h2>Fragmented global policies and investor sensitivity</h2><p>The Survey notes that global policy frameworks have become increasingly fragmented, &nbsp;unpredictable, and often politically-driven, affecting cross-border investment and trade.</p><p>Investors are highly sensitive to political risk, trade barriers, and regulatory uncertainty. India’s challenge, according to the Survey, is to navigate this fragmented global environment while maintaining macroeconomic stability and investor confidence.</p><h2>Strategic tensions affecting global capital flows</h2><p>The Survey addresses specific vulnerabilities arising from US trade relations and currency fluctuations, noting their interaction with broader global dynamics.</p><p>Capital flows are increasingly shaped by geopolitical alignments and strategic considerations rather than purely economic factors. The global economy is becoming segmented into blocs, with strategic capital, technology restrictions, and export controls playing a larger role, it noted.</p><p>Capital flows are moving along geopolitical fault lines, with investment increasingly directed toward countries seen as aligned within specific geostrategic groupings.</p><h2>US re-vevaluation of economic ties affecting global economy, and India</h2><p>The Survey highlights challenges arising from trade uncertainty, including protectionism, retaliatory tariffs, strategic decoupling, and the use of security considerations as tools in trade policy. The US is re-evaluating alliances and placing greater emphasis on bilateral trade arrangements over multilateral frameworks, alongside the growing use of export licensing and restrictive trade practices.</p><h2>Crude price didn't affect inflation, but…</h2><p>While the Survey does not point to direct inflationary pressure from crude oil prices at present, it flags risks linked to the global energy transitions. This transition is increasingly dependent on critical minerals, which could be affected by strategic choke points, trade restrictions, and geopolitical tensions, it indicated. The Survey also warned about emerging geostrategic tensions related to artificial intelligence, particularly around export controls, technology transfer restrictions, and the potential weaponisation of advanced technologies.</p>

India Economic Survey 2026 warns of global risks arising from Trump tariffs, trade wars, rupee volatility and geopolitical tensions. Strong domestic demand is cushioning growth. But there is a catch...

The India Economic Survey 2026 , released on Thursday (Jan 29), notes that global headwinds led mainly by Trump tariffs, trade wars, geopolitical instability and protectionalism are risks, even as domestic demand remains strong. The Survey, tabled in parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ahead of Union Budget 2026, states that rupee volatility and inconclusive trade talks with the US are external risks. Here are the key global aspects affecting India, as per the Economic Survey Indian economy thriving amid a fragile and uncertain global backdrop The Survey flags slower growth in major economies, trade disruptions, and heightened geopolitical uncertainty. Weaker growth among key trading partners could affect India’s export momentum and external demand. The global shocks could affect capital flows, exchange rates, and financial market sentiment. https://www.wionews.com/videos/davos-2026-can-india-become-the-third-largest-economy-1768976462733/embed Trump tariff effect: How US trade policy is affecting the Indian economy The Survey highlights the impact of US trade policy under President Donald Trump, including the imposition of a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff along with an additional 25 per cent penalty (for buying Russian oil) on several Indian exports during 2025. These punitive measures created uncertainty for exporters. Despite this, the Survey notes that India’s export performance remained relatively resilient due to diversification of markets, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and West Asia. Tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and strategic trade policies are increasingly being used as geopolitical tools, leading to uncertainty in global supply chains and weakening the predictability of trade flows. Also read: India needs 8% growth to achieve ‘Viksit Bharat’ dream by 2047; Here's what Economic Survey 2025–26 says about India growth outlook Rupee volatility as a global risk channel The Survey highlights heightened volatility in the Indian rupee as a consequence of global shocks. The Indian rupee fell to record lows in early 2026, driven by foreign portfolio outflows, importer demand for dollars, and uncertainty linked to US tariffs and global risk aversion. While the Survey notes that rupee volatility reflects global financial stress, it adds that this has not materially damaged India’s growth outlook so far. In fact, rupee depreciation has partly cushioned exporters by offsetting some of the tariff-related cost pressures. However, the Survey cautions that sustained currency volatility could affect capital flows, inflation expectations, and external financing conditions. There is a catch: Full impact of global shocks might be felt only after some time The Survey issues a warning that global shocks often affect India with a lag. Even if near-term growth appears resilient, global disruptions could gradually affect exports, investment flows, technology transfers, and financial markets. Trade shocks, in particular, may show delayed effects as contracts adjust and supply chains reconfigure over time. Also read: Economic Survey 2025-26 big takeaways: Growth to remain steady but external risks a worry Domestic demand as the silver lining Strong domestic demand is highlighted as a key buffer against global headwinds. Private consumption, public investment, and domestic capital formation continue to support growth even as external demand remains uncertain, according to the Survey. The Survey’s growth projection for India, at around 6.8 to 7.2 per cent for FY27, is driven primarily by domestic demand rather than external conditions. Also read: GDP growth, lower deficit, strong exports set Budget 2026 tone -- Key numbers from Economic Survey Fragmented global policies and investor sensitivity The Survey notes that global policy frameworks have become increasingly fragmented, unpredictable, and often politically-driven, affecting cross-border investment and trade. Investors are highly sensitive to political risk, trade barriers, and regulatory uncertainty. India’s challenge, according to the Survey, is to navigate this fragmented global environment while maintaining macroeconomic stability and investor confidence. Strategic tensions affecting global capital flows The Survey addresses specific vulnerabilities arising from US trade relations and currency fluctuations, noting their interaction with broader global dynamics. Capital flows are increasingly shaped by geopolitical alignments and strategic considerations rather than purely economic factors. The global economy is becoming segmented into blocs, with strategic capital, technology restrictions, and export controls playing a larger role, it noted. Capital flows are moving along geopolitical fault lines, with investment increasingly directed toward countries seen as aligned within specific geostrategic groupings. US re-vevaluation of economic ties affecting global economy, and India The Survey highlights challenges arising from trade uncertainty, including protectionism, retaliatory tariffs, strategic decoupling, and the use of security considerations as tools in trade policy. The US is re-evaluating alliances and placing greater emphasis on bilateral trade arrangements over multilateral frameworks, alongside the growing use of export licensing and restrictive trade practices. Crude price didn't affect inflation, but… While the Survey does not point to direct inflationary pressure from crude oil prices at present, it flags risks linked to the global energy transitions. This transition is increasingly dependent on critical minerals, which could be affected by strategic choke points, trade restrictions, and geopolitical tensions, it indicated. The Survey also warned about emerging geostrategic tensions related to artificial intelligence, particularly around export controls, technology transfer restrictions, and the potential weaponisation of advanced technologies.

<p>India Economic Survey 2026 warns of global risks arising from Trump tariffs, trade wars, rupee volatility and geopolitical tensions. Strong domestic demand is cushioning growth. But there is a catch...</p>

India Economic Survey 2026: Trump tariffs and global risks loom despite buoyant domestic consumption

<p>A recent lawsuit in the US claims that WhatsApp can read private or encrypted messages, basing its arguments on whistleblower revelations. Meta, the Mark Zuckerberg–led parent company of WhatsApp which also owns Facebook and Instagram, has strongly rejected these claims. The lawsuit’s claim about ‘whistleblowers’ is yet to be substantiated, as they are not named. Nevertheless, the case has brought renewed attention to the reliability of WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption (E2EE).</p><h2>What is WhatsApp’s encryption technology?</h2><p>E2EE uses the widely respected Signal protocol, a golden standard considered secure by experts. WhatsApp has often resisted government requests to decrypt chats, and there have been no known backdoor entries that allow the company or third parties to access message content.<br>Enabled by default in WhatsApp, the E2EE encryption keys are stored only on users’ devices, theoretically preventing Meta from decrypting messages in transit or on servers. While metadata, such as who sent a message to whom, can be collected, the system is generally considered robust and capable of ensuring privacy and secrecy for users.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-tiktok-youtube-face-court-case-over-social-media-addiction-in-children-1769486751202/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-tiktok-youtube-face-court-case-over-social-media-addiction-in-children-1769486751202/embed</a></p><h2>What is the new case against Meta on WhatsApp message encryption?</h2><p>An international group of plaintiffs from Australia, Brazil, India, Mexico and South Africa filed the lawsuit on January 24 at the US District Court for the Northern District of California in San Francisco. They are seeking 'global class action' status for their complaint, aiming to represent billions of WhatsApp users across the world.</p><p>The suit claims that Meta and WhatsApp ‘mislead users by advertising E2EE, while secretly storing, analysing and accessing virtually all private communications’.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/meta-launches-2-variants-of-ai-enabled-smart-glasses-price-features-revealed-1758186792998">Meta launches 2 variants of AI-enabled smart glasses: Price, features&nbsp;revealed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Employees can allegedly request such access via an internal system, which apparently involves sending a “task” to engineers who grant access without scrutiny.</p><p>The messages, the lawsuit claims, can be viewed in real time through a widget using a user’s ID.</p><p>Past messages since an account was created could be accessed with no decryption needed, contradicting Meta’s promises that only senders and recipients can read messages, the suit claims.</p><p>According to reports, the lawsuit argues that Meta’s alleged conduct amounts to 'fraud on billions of users worldwide' who rely on WhatsApp’s privacy assurances. &nbsp;It is seeking damages and injunctive relief.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-vishal-shah-meta-ceo-zuckerberg-appoints-head-project-management-for-ai-division-1761634315870">Who Is Vishal Shah? Meta CEO Zuckerberg appoints head of project management for AI Division</a></p><p>The lawsuit cited unnamed ‘courageous whistleblowers’ as the source of these revelations.&nbsp;<br>Among other things, it alleged that non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) at Meta are suppressing this information from becoming public.</p><p>However, the lawsuit provides no names or roles of the whistleblowers, or specific evidence or technical information in the complaint.</p><h2>Meta rejects claims as false and absurd</h2><p>Calling the allegations categorically false, absurd, and a “frivolous work of fiction”, Meta spokesperson Andy Stone said WhatsApp has used the Signal protocol for E2EE for nearly a decade.</p><p>Meta also vowed to seek sanctions against the plaintiffs’ lawyers, and fight the lawsuit from the beginning.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

A US lawsuit claimed that Meta misled users by saying WhatsApp chats are private. It alleged that staff can have internal access to the messages. Meta rejected the claims in the lawsuit, which is allegedly based on whistleblower revelations

A recent lawsuit in the US claims that WhatsApp can read private or encrypted messages, basing its arguments on whistleblower revelations. Meta, the Mark Zuckerberg–led parent company of WhatsApp which also owns Facebook and Instagram, has strongly rejected these claims. The lawsuit’s claim about ‘whistleblowers’ is yet to be substantiated, as they are not named. Nevertheless, the case has brought renewed attention to the reliability of WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption (E2EE). What is WhatsApp’s encryption technology? E2EE uses the widely respected Signal protocol, a golden standard considered secure by experts. WhatsApp has often resisted government requests to decrypt chats, and there have been no known backdoor entries that allow the company or third parties to access message content. Enabled by default in WhatsApp, the E2EE encryption keys are stored only on users’ devices, theoretically preventing Meta from decrypting messages in transit or on servers. While metadata, such as who sent a message to whom, can be collected, the system is generally considered robust and capable of ensuring privacy and secrecy for users. https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-tiktok-youtube-face-court-case-over-social-media-addiction-in-children-1769486751202/embed What is the new case against Meta on WhatsApp message encryption? An international group of plaintiffs from Australia, Brazil, India, Mexico and South Africa filed the lawsuit on January 24 at the US District Court for the Northern District of California in San Francisco. They are seeking 'global class action' status for their complaint, aiming to represent billions of WhatsApp users across the world. The suit claims that Meta and WhatsApp ‘mislead users by advertising E2EE, while secretly storing, analysing and accessing virtually all private communications’. Also read: Meta launches 2 variants of AI-enabled smart glasses: Price, features revealed Employees can allegedly request such access via an internal system, which apparently involves sending a “task” to engineers who grant access without scrutiny. The messages, the lawsuit claims, can be viewed in real time through a widget using a user’s ID. Past messages since an account was created could be accessed with no decryption needed, contradicting Meta’s promises that only senders and recipients can read messages, the suit claims. According to reports, the lawsuit argues that Meta’s alleged conduct amounts to 'fraud on billions of users worldwide' who rely on WhatsApp’s privacy assurances. It is seeking damages and injunctive relief. Also read: Who Is Vishal Shah? Meta CEO Zuckerberg appoints head of project management for AI Division The lawsuit cited unnamed ‘courageous whistleblowers’ as the source of these revelations. Among other things, it alleged that non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) at Meta are suppressing this information from becoming public. However, the lawsuit provides no names or roles of the whistleblowers, or specific evidence or technical information in the complaint. Meta rejects claims as false and absurd Calling the allegations categorically false, absurd, and a “frivolous work of fiction”, Meta spokesperson Andy Stone said WhatsApp has used the Signal protocol for E2EE for nearly a decade. Meta also vowed to seek sanctions against the plaintiffs’ lawyers, and fight the lawsuit from the beginning.

<p>A US lawsuit claimed that Meta misled users by saying WhatsApp chats are private. It alleged that Meta staff can have internal access to the messages. Meta rejected the claims in the lawsuit, which is allegedly based on whistleblower revelations</p>

WhatsApp can read users' encrypted messages, claims lawsuit against Meta in the US, citing whistleblowers

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