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Fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi has outstanding flat maintenance dues of approximately Rs 63 lakh ($73,332) at Gokul Apartments in Mumbai's Malabar Hill, said a society member on Monday (Apr 14).
He said that Choksi owns three units on the 9th, 10th and 11th floors at the apartment and has not paid the maintenance for over seven years.
"He has seven years of maintenance due. He has three units- 9th, 10th and 11th floors. The 11th floor is a terrace, he has illegally occupied it. There is maintenance dues of around Rs 63 lakh without interest. In 2020, our condominium had renovation work done, the cost per unit came to Rs 30-35 lakh, so if you add the cost of three units, it will be around Rs 95 lakh," a society member told news agency ANI.
"Big trees have started growing in the flat, and the roots will definitely damage the structural integrity of the building. This is an additional burden that we have to bear without any fault of ours. We have faith in the legal system of India, ED officials, and we hope we will get the dues," he added.
The property was attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
<h2>Belgium confirms arrest of Choksi</h2>
The Belgian Federal Public Service of Justice on Monday confirmed that Choksi was arrested on Saturday (Apr 12) and is being held in detention currently.
"The Belgian federal public service of Justice can confirm that Mr. Mehul Choksi was arrested on Saturday, 12th of April 2025. He is being detained in anticipation of further judicial proceedings. Access to his legal counsel has been assured," the Belgian federal public service of Justice told ANI.
They also stated that the Indian authorities introduced an extradition request for the fugitive businessman.
"Finally, the Belgian federal public service of Justice can confirm that the Indian authorities have introduced an extradition request for Mr. Choksi. As is standard in individual cases, no further details can be released at this stage," they said.

India news: The Belgian Federal Public Service of Justice on Monday confirmed that Choksi was arrested on Saturday (Apr 12) and is being held in detention currently.

Fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi has outstanding flat maintenance dues of approximately Rs 63 lakh ($73,332) at Gokul Apartments in Mumbai's Malabar Hill, said a society member on Monday (Apr 14). He said that Choksi owns three units on the 9th, 10th and 11th floors at the apartment and has not paid the maintenance for over seven years. "He has seven years of maintenance due. He has three units- 9th, 10th and 11th floors. The 11th floor is a terrace, he has illegally occupied it. There is maintenance dues of around Rs 63 lakh without interest. In 2020, our condominium had renovation work done, the cost per unit came to Rs 30-35 lakh, so if you add the cost of three units, it will be around Rs 95 lakh," a society member told news agency ANI. "Big trees have started growing in the flat, and the roots will definitely damage the structural integrity of the building. This is an additional burden that we have to bear without any fault of ours. We have faith in the legal system of India, ED officials, and we hope we will get the dues," he added. The property was attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Belgium confirms arrest of Choksi The Belgian Federal Public Service of Justice on Monday confirmed that Choksi was arrested on Saturday (Apr 12) and is being held in detention currently. "The Belgian federal public service of Justice can confirm that Mr. Mehul Choksi was arrested on Saturday, 12th of April 2025. He is being detained in anticipation of further judicial proceedings. Access to his legal counsel has been assured," the Belgian federal public service of Justice told ANI. They also stated that the Indian authorities introduced an extradition request for the fugitive businessman. "Finally, the Belgian federal public service of Justice can confirm that the Indian authorities have introduced an extradition request for Mr. Choksi. As is standard in individual cases, no further details can be released at this stage," they said.

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi owes over Rs 6 million maintenance for Mumbai flats: Report

The Telangana government, on Monday (Apr 14), issued a notification and officially enforced Scheduled Caste (SC) sub-categorization for future recruitments and education-related decisions, following a thorough legal and administrative process. &nbsp;
The Telangana Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservation) Act, 2025, came into force on April 14, coinciding with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's birth anniversary.
The historic move made Telangana the very first state in India to implement SC sub-categorisation after the Supreme Court's nod.
Telangana Minister for Irrigation, Food &amp; Civil Supplies, Uttam Kumar Reddy, stated that the policy aims to ensure equitable distribution of reservation benefits among SC subcastes. As the head of the cabinet subcommittee on the matter, Reddy emphasized that the policy will promote social justice and ensure benefits reach the most backward communities.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9i4d4wh-kkutwfhb-dqgmu5ey">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Hyderabad | On Telangana Government to implement Scheduled Caste (SC) sub-categorization, State Minister Uttam Reddy says, "A law will be enforced in Telangana from today under which all further issues in employment &amp; education will be done as per Scheduled Caste (SC)&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/QsgM3045XE">pic.twitter.com/QsgM3045XE</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911722696876113948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
"SCs in Telangana have a 15% reservation, there has always been a feeling that some of the SC sub-castes are getting more benefit than the others. So when the Supreme Court gave a judgement about 6-7 months back, giving the power of reservation of sub-castes to states, Telangana was the first state which announced in the assembly that we will not do any further job notification or filling up of job vacancies till we finish the categorization," he said.
"So we went through an elaborate process, I am the cabinet sub-committee chairman, we also appointed a retired high court judge as a one-man judicial commission, we went through a very meticulous, systematic, legally valid process and we completed it and today we have issued the necessary orders and the law will be enforced from today in Telangana where all further issues in employment and education will be done as per SC categorization," Reddy added.
He then said that a meeting has been scheduled on Tuesday to compile all departmental vacancies. "We are also having a meeting tomorrow to call for all the vacancies in all the departments, and we will give a notification in the next few days. In all of them, SC categorization will be applicable," he said.
Telangana Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha, backing the move, said, "We are committed to social justice. This classification or categorisation is not against any community. It is for those communities among the Dalits who are most backward."
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Telangana Minister for Irrigation, Food & Civil Supplies, Uttam Kumar Reddy, stated that the policy aims to ensure equitable distribution of reservation benefits among SC subcastes.

The Telangana government, on Monday (Apr 14), issued a notification and officially enforced Scheduled Caste (SC) sub-categorization for future recruitments and education-related decisions, following a thorough legal and administrative process. The Telangana Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservation) Act, 2025, came into force on April 14, coinciding with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's birth anniversary. The historic move made Telangana the very first state in India to implement SC sub-categorisation after the Supreme Court's nod. Telangana Minister for Irrigation, Food & Civil Supplies, Uttam Kumar Reddy, stated that the policy aims to ensure equitable distribution of reservation benefits among SC subcastes. As the head of the cabinet subcommittee on the matter, Reddy emphasized that the policy will promote social justice and ensure benefits reach the most backward communities. #WATCH | Hyderabad | On Telangana Government to implement Scheduled Caste (SC) sub-categorization, State Minister Uttam Reddy says, "A law will be enforced in Telangana from today under which all further issues in employment & education will be done as per Scheduled Caste (SC)… pic.twitter.com/QsgM3045XE — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2025 "SCs in Telangana have a 15% reservation, there has always been a feeling that some of the SC sub-castes are getting more benefit than the others. So when the Supreme Court gave a judgement about 6-7 months back, giving the power of reservation of sub-castes to states, Telangana was the first state which announced in the assembly that we will not do any further job notification or filling up of job vacancies till we finish the categorization," he said. "So we went through an elaborate process, I am the cabinet sub-committee chairman, we also appointed a retired high court judge as a one-man judicial commission, we went through a very meticulous, systematic, legally valid process and we completed it and today we have issued the necessary orders and the law will be enforced from today in Telangana where all further issues in employment and education will be done as per SC categorization," Reddy added. He then said that a meeting has been scheduled on Tuesday to compile all departmental vacancies. "We are also having a meeting tomorrow to call for all the vacancies in all the departments, and we will give a notification in the next few days. In all of them, SC categorization will be applicable," he said. Telangana Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha, backing the move, said, "We are committed to social justice. This classification or categorisation is not against any community. It is for those communities among the Dalits who are most backward." (With inputs from agencies)

Telangana becomes first state in India to implement SC sub-categorization

An unfortunate accident occurred in Jabalpur's Chargawan in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. A car with six on board was returning after performing a symbolic goat sacrifice at a nearby temple when the vehicle steered off the bridge and fell into the Somvati river. Four passengers died on the spot, and two sustained serious injuries. In a miraculous escape, the goat survived the fatal fall.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vadodara-accident-case-reason-behind-another-round-shout-will-shock-you-8860789">Vadodara car accident case: Reason behind 'Another Round' shout of man who killed woman will shock you</a>
The victims were returning from Dulha Dev Maharaj temple in Narsinghpur district after performing rituals. The sacrifice was symbolic, which mean the goat's ear was chopped; otherwise, the archaic practice kills the animal. Authorities found alcohol and essentials in the car, which looked like they were preparing to celebrate on reaching their destination. Onlookers said the victims looked like they were under the influence of alcohol.
While speaking to news agency PTI, Bargi City Superintendent of Police Anjul Mishra said, "The speeding SUV broke the railing and fell from the bridge onto the dry bed of Somvati river. Six members of the Patel family were travelling in the sports utility vehicle. They had gone to visit Dada Darbar in Narsinghpur and were returning to Jabalpur. Kishan Patel (35), Mahendra Patel (35), Sagar Patel (17) and Rajendra Patel (36) died on the spot. Jitendra Patel and Manoj Patel have sustained serious injuries and were admitted to government medical college and hospital."
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-who-is-rakshit-chaurasiya-law-student-who-mowed-down-five-in-vadodara-claims-lost-control-due-to-potholes-on-road-gujarat-accident-8854866">Vadodara accident case: Rakshit Chaurasiya, law student denies being 'drunk', claims 'lost control due to potholes'</a>
"The rooster they were carrying died, while the goat in the vehicle, whose ear had been severed during the ritual, survived," he added.

A car with six on board was returning after performing a symbolic goat sacrifice at a nearby temple when the vehicle steered off the bridge. India news

An unfortunate accident occurred in Jabalpur's Chargawan in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. A car with six on board was returning after performing a symbolic goat sacrifice at a nearby temple when the vehicle steered off the bridge and fell into the Somvati river. Four passengers died on the spot, and two sustained serious injuries. In a miraculous escape, the goat survived the fatal fall. Also read: Vadodara car accident case: Reason behind 'Another Round' shout of man who killed woman will shock you The victims were returning from Dulha Dev Maharaj temple in Narsinghpur district after performing rituals. The sacrifice was symbolic, which mean the goat's ear was chopped; otherwise, the archaic practice kills the animal. Authorities found alcohol and essentials in the car, which looked like they were preparing to celebrate on reaching their destination. Onlookers said the victims looked like they were under the influence of alcohol. While speaking to news agency PTI, Bargi City Superintendent of Police Anjul Mishra said, "The speeding SUV broke the railing and fell from the bridge onto the dry bed of Somvati river. Six members of the Patel family were travelling in the sports utility vehicle. They had gone to visit Dada Darbar in Narsinghpur and were returning to Jabalpur. Kishan Patel (35), Mahendra Patel (35), Sagar Patel (17) and Rajendra Patel (36) died on the spot. Jitendra Patel and Manoj Patel have sustained serious injuries and were admitted to government medical college and hospital." Also read: Vadodara accident case: Rakshit Chaurasiya, law student denies being 'drunk', claims 'lost control due to potholes' "The rooster they were carrying died, while the goat in the vehicle, whose ear had been severed during the ritual, survived," he added.

Sacrificial goat miraculously survives as 4 die in car crash

In a shocking statement, the Bombay High Court has granted bail to a man arrested for raping a 15-year-old girl citing that the girl "voluntarily" joined the man despite having "sufficient knowledge and capacity to know full import of what she was doing." The court also said that the man deserved a bail because he was incarcerated for three years and 11 months and there was "no possibility of the trial commencing/concluding in the near foreseeable future."
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-rapes-infant-indian-court-reduces-life-sentence-to-10-years-says-original-punishment-was-harsh-and-excessive-8887575">Man rapes infant, Indian court reduces life sentence to 10 years, says original punishment was 'harsh and excessive'</a>
The accused was arrested in 2021 and was booked under offences of kidnapping and raping minor girl under Indian Penal Code (IPC) and provisions of the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. A single-judge bench of Justice Milind N Jadhav on April 9 passed an order on bail application. The bail order was passed on April 9 and the man got out of the jail today.
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-stays-allahabad-hcs-ruling-that-grabbing-breasts-and-pulling-pyjama-strings-not-rape-8892087" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Supreme Court stays Allahabad HC's ruling that 'grabbing breasts and pulling pyjama strings' not rape</a>
<h2>What was the case?</h2>
As per a report in The Indian Express, the victim&rsquo;s father filed an FIR in August 2020, and has stated that her daughter had left the house and is allegedly with the accused in another state. Later, in May, 2021, the victim, a minor (then 15 years and 3 months old) informed her father about her pregnancy and the accused's refusal to marry her. As per the FIR, she was then brought back to Maharashtra.
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-justice-ram-manohar-narayan-mishra-allahabad-hc-judge-who-ruled-grabbing-breasts-not-rape-attempt-8893416" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Who is Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra, Allahabad HC judge who ruled &lsquo;grabbing breasts not rape attempt&rsquo;?</a>
In the statement by the victim, she said that she knew the accused since 2019 and would regularly meet, despite the disapproval of her parents.&nbsp;She claimed that he had forceful sexual relations with her in March, 2020. Later, during their stay outside Maharashtra in July, 2020, they had physical relations, which led to her pregnancy.
Advocate Mateen Qureshi, appearing for the accused argued that the girl on her own volition had stayed with the applicant for 10 months.&nbsp;Qureshi also argued that despite the father being aware of her location, he did not take any measures to secure her custody.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/allahabad-high-court-says-rape-victim-responsible-grants-bail-to-accused-she-invited-trouble-8949367">Allahabad HC holds woman 'responsible' in rape case, grants bail to accused: 'She invited trouble'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | In a shocking statement, the Bombay High Court has granted bail to a man in a rape case of minor citing that the girl "voluntarily" joined the man

In a shocking statement, the Bombay High Court has granted bail to a man arrested for raping a 15-year-old girl citing that the girl "voluntarily" joined the man despite having "sufficient knowledge and capacity to know full import of what she was doing." The court also said that the man deserved a bail because he was incarcerated for three years and 11 months and there was "no possibility of the trial commencing/concluding in the near foreseeable future." Read More | Man rapes infant, Indian court reduces life sentence to 10 years, says original punishment was 'harsh and excessive' The accused was arrested in 2021 and was booked under offences of kidnapping and raping minor girl under Indian Penal Code (IPC) and provisions of the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. A single-judge bench of Justice Milind N Jadhav on April 9 passed an order on bail application. The bail order was passed on April 9 and the man got out of the jail today. Read More | Supreme Court stays Allahabad HC's ruling that 'grabbing breasts and pulling pyjama strings' not rape What was the case? As per a report in The Indian Express, the victim’s father filed an FIR in August 2020, and has stated that her daughter had left the house and is allegedly with the accused in another state. Later, in May, 2021, the victim, a minor (then 15 years and 3 months old) informed her father about her pregnancy and the accused's refusal to marry her. As per the FIR, she was then brought back to Maharashtra. Read More | Who is Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra, Allahabad HC judge who ruled ‘grabbing breasts not rape attempt’? In the statement by the victim, she said that she knew the accused since 2019 and would regularly meet, despite the disapproval of her parents. She claimed that he had forceful sexual relations with her in March, 2020. Later, during their stay outside Maharashtra in July, 2020, they had physical relations, which led to her pregnancy. Advocate Mateen Qureshi, appearing for the accused argued that the girl on her own volition had stayed with the applicant for 10 months. Qureshi also argued that despite the father being aware of her location, he did not take any measures to secure her custody. Read More | Allahabad HC holds woman 'responsible' in rape case, grants bail to accused: 'She invited trouble' (With inputs from agencies)

Bombay HC grants bail to man in minor's rape case, says she 'voluntarily' joined him

A minister from India's Jharkhand landed in hot water after saying that the Islamic Sharia law is more important than the Indian constitution. The minister, Hafizul Hassan, triggered massive outrage from the public and political groups like BJP, after his statement: "Shariat hamare liye bada hai. Hum Quran seene mein rakhte hain aur haath me samvidhaan. Islam mein Shariat ko pehle pakdenge fir samvidhaan ko." (Sharia is greater for me. I keep the Quran (Islam's holy book) near to my heart and the Indian constitution in my hand. As per Islam, Sharia if first then is the Indian constitution).
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democracy-dead-and-sharia-in-effect-we-dont-need-western-laws-taliban-leader-akhundzada-8907620">Democracy dead and sharia in effect, we don&rsquo;t need Western laws: Taliban leader Akhundzada</a>
As his remarks were aired on a news channel, the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) hit back at the minister. But when he was asked to clarify his statement, the state's minority welfare minister took a U-turn.&nbsp;
"I had said that Shariat mere seene mein hain par Babasaheb ka samvidhaan haath me hai (Shariat is there in my heart, but Babasaheb's Constitution is in my hands). Both the Constitution and Shariat are equally important," the minister said on Monday (April 14) after facing the backlash.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sharia-rule-a-lifelong-responsibility-akhundzada-on-three-years-of-taliban-rule-in-afghanistan-750426">Sharia rule a 'lifelong responsibility': Akhundzada on three years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan</a>
"You have seen statues of Babasaheb holding the Constitution in his hand. We come from financially backward communities. He gave reservations to us and that's why we have been ahead," the minister added.&nbsp;
<h2>'Not I but we'?</h2>
Talking to the news agency ANI, Hassan said, "I did not say 'main' (I), I said 'hum' (we). Watch the full statement. I am a minister, 'hum' includes everyone. A minister believes in the Constitution and functions in accordance. Shariat too has its own place. People keep Lord Hanuman in their heart...it's a way of saying. I said something similar. Everyone is distorting it and presenting it. You will find out, when you watch the entire 5-6 minutes of what I said."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9hy0aat-exi4coo1-g1u11l90">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ranchi: On his "Shariat first, then Constitution" reported statement, Jharkhand Minister Hafizul Hassan says, "I did not say 'main' (I), I said 'hum' (we). Watch the full statement. I am a minister, 'hum' includes everyone. A minister believes in the Constitution and&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/QKVnUloUH0">pic.twitter.com/QKVnUloUH0</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911756701017006396?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'Doors of Pakistan and Bangladesh were open'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sharia-rule-a-lifelong-responsibility-akhundzada-on-three-years-of-taliban-rule-in-afghanistan-750426">Sharia rule a 'lifelong responsibility': Akhundzada on three years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan</a>
Meanwhile, the BJP hit back at the minister's remarks. Taking to the social media platform X, the party said that Hassan's comments meant that the "doors of Pakistan and Bangladesh were open".&nbsp;
"For those who have Shariat in their hearts, the doors of Pakistan and Bangladesh are open. India will run only on the Constitution of Babasaheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar and will remain supreme," the &nbsp;BJP said.&nbsp;
<h2>'Marriage age for girls should be reduced'</h2>
Hassan is the same minister who drew massive criticism in 2021 for saying that the marriage age for girls should be reduced. He said that it should be 16, but if not possible, then keep it at 18 at least.
&ldquo;Going by the growth these days, it should be decreased to 16. If not, then it should remain at 18,&rdquo; Hassan had said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-sunni-cleric-slams-execution-in-iran-calls-its-violation-of-sharia-law-541781">Top Sunni cleric slams execution in Iran, calls its violation of Sharia law</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | A minister from India's Jharkhand landed in hot water after saying that the Islamic Sharia law is more important than the Indian constitution.

A minister from India's Jharkhand landed in hot water after saying that the Islamic Sharia law is more important than the Indian constitution. The minister, Hafizul Hassan, triggered massive outrage from the public and political groups like BJP, after his statement: "Shariat hamare liye bada hai. Hum Quran seene mein rakhte hain aur haath me samvidhaan. Islam mein Shariat ko pehle pakdenge fir samvidhaan ko." (Sharia is greater for me. I keep the Quran (Islam's holy book) near to my heart and the Indian constitution in my hand. As per Islam, Sharia if first then is the Indian constitution). Also read: Democracy dead and sharia in effect, we don’t need Western laws: Taliban leader Akhundzada As his remarks were aired on a news channel, the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) hit back at the minister. But when he was asked to clarify his statement, the state's minority welfare minister took a U-turn. "I had said that Shariat mere seene mein hain par Babasaheb ka samvidhaan haath me hai (Shariat is there in my heart, but Babasaheb's Constitution is in my hands). Both the Constitution and Shariat are equally important," the minister said on Monday (April 14) after facing the backlash. Also read: Sharia rule a 'lifelong responsibility': Akhundzada on three years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan "You have seen statues of Babasaheb holding the Constitution in his hand. We come from financially backward communities. He gave reservations to us and that's why we have been ahead," the minister added. 'Not I but we'? Talking to the news agency ANI, Hassan said, "I did not say 'main' (I), I said 'hum' (we). Watch the full statement. I am a minister, 'hum' includes everyone. A minister believes in the Constitution and functions in accordance. Shariat too has its own place. People keep Lord Hanuman in their heart...it's a way of saying. I said something similar. Everyone is distorting it and presenting it. You will find out, when you watch the entire 5-6 minutes of what I said." #WATCH | Ranchi: On his "Shariat first, then Constitution" reported statement, Jharkhand Minister Hafizul Hassan says, "I did not say 'main' (I), I said 'hum' (we). Watch the full statement. I am a minister, 'hum' includes everyone. A minister believes in the Constitution and… pic.twitter.com/QKVnUloUH0 — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2025 'Doors of Pakistan and Bangladesh were open' Also read: Sharia rule a 'lifelong responsibility': Akhundzada on three years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan Meanwhile, the BJP hit back at the minister's remarks. Taking to the social media platform X, the party said that Hassan's comments meant that the "doors of Pakistan and Bangladesh were open". "For those who have Shariat in their hearts, the doors of Pakistan and Bangladesh are open. India will run only on the Constitution of Babasaheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar and will remain supreme," the BJP said. 'Marriage age for girls should be reduced' Hassan is the same minister who drew massive criticism in 2021 for saying that the marriage age for girls should be reduced. He said that it should be 16, but if not possible, then keep it at 18 at least. “Going by the growth these days, it should be decreased to 16. If not, then it should remain at 18,” Hassan had said. Also read: Top Sunni cleric slams execution in Iran, calls its violation of Sharia law (With inputs from agencies)

'Sharia law over Indian constitution'? Why Jharkhand minister's remarks spark political debate

The fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi has been detained in Belgium after the relentless efforts of India to extradite him. The diamond merchant has already started contesting his arrest and extradition, citing his health issues.&nbsp;
The Gitanjali Group owner, accused in connection with a financial fraud in PNB, was arrested after a joint operation by Indian and Belgian authorities.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fugitive-mehul-choksi-arrested-in-belgium-how-long-can-his-extradition-take-8962241">Fugitive Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium. How long can his extradition take?</a>
But what was eye-catching in this whole drama was Choksi's claim that he was "honey-trapped" and abducted, which involved a Hungarian woman named Barbara Jabarika.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Barbara?&nbsp;</h2>
In 2018, Choksi ran from India and landed in Antigua and Barbuda to escape a crackdown after his fraud. He acquired the citizenship there by making some investments. In 2021, he appeared in Dominica and was arrested for illegal entry. That&rsquo;s when the Barbara Jabarika angle unravelled.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-belgium-confirms-mehul-choksis-arrest-indian-extradition-request-8960987">Exclusive: Belgium confirms Mehul Choksi's arrest, Indian extradition request</a>
Choksi claimed he was allegedly abducted, tortured, and placed on a boat that took him from Antigua to Dominica. And Barbara was a crucial part of the entire plot, the fugitive business tycoon claimed.&nbsp;
<h2>'Experienced Sales Negotiator'</h2>
As per her LinkedIn profile, Barbara was a &ldquo;Property Investment Agent&rdquo; from Bulgaria. She claimed herself to be an &ldquo;Experienced Sales Negotiator with a demonstrated history of working in Direct Sales and the Real Estate Industry".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehul-choksi-how-a-diamond-tycoon-became-a-wanted-fugitive-the-rise-and-ruin-of-business-magnate-wion-explains-8959491">Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive. The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains</a>
"Skilled in Customer Service, Sales Negotiations, Leadership and Team Coordination. Over 10 years of Sales Experience, achieving Management positions in Property and Retail," her LinkedIn profile said.&nbsp;
As per an NDTV report, Choksi's wife claimed they met Barbara in 2020 and she honey-trapped him.&nbsp;
The fugitive tycoon claimed Barbara befriended him under false pretences and invited him over for dinner just before the alleged abduction.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/had-to-happen-former-law-minister-ravi-shankar-prasad-on-mehul-choksis-arrest-8960293">'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest</a>
But, Barbara has denied all the claims, saying the reports that she was Choksi's "girlfriend" were untrue, NDTV reported.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Trending | India News | The Gitanjali Group owner, accused in connection with a financial fraud in PNB, was arrested after a joint operation by Indian and Belgian authorities.

The fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi has been detained in Belgium after the relentless efforts of India to extradite him. The diamond merchant has already started contesting his arrest and extradition, citing his health issues. The Gitanjali Group owner, accused in connection with a financial fraud in PNB, was arrested after a joint operation by Indian and Belgian authorities. Also read: Fugitive Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium. How long can his extradition take? But what was eye-catching in this whole drama was Choksi's claim that he was "honey-trapped" and abducted, which involved a Hungarian woman named Barbara Jabarika. Who is Barbara? In 2018, Choksi ran from India and landed in Antigua and Barbuda to escape a crackdown after his fraud. He acquired the citizenship there by making some investments. In 2021, he appeared in Dominica and was arrested for illegal entry. That’s when the Barbara Jabarika angle unravelled. Also read: Exclusive: Belgium confirms Mehul Choksi's arrest, Indian extradition request Choksi claimed he was allegedly abducted, tortured, and placed on a boat that took him from Antigua to Dominica. And Barbara was a crucial part of the entire plot, the fugitive business tycoon claimed. 'Experienced Sales Negotiator' As per her LinkedIn profile, Barbara was a “Property Investment Agent” from Bulgaria. She claimed herself to be an “Experienced Sales Negotiator with a demonstrated history of working in Direct Sales and the Real Estate Industry". Also read: Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive. The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains "Skilled in Customer Service, Sales Negotiations, Leadership and Team Coordination. Over 10 years of Sales Experience, achieving Management positions in Property and Retail," her LinkedIn profile said. As per an NDTV report, Choksi's wife claimed they met Barbara in 2020 and she honey-trapped him. The fugitive tycoon claimed Barbara befriended him under false pretences and invited him over for dinner just before the alleged abduction. Also read: 'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest But, Barbara has denied all the claims, saying the reports that she was Choksi's "girlfriend" were untrue, NDTV reported.

Meet Barbara Jabarika, woman who 'honey-trapped' fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi

An intense exchange of fire broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, specifically in Lasana village. The encounter began after the Indian Army launched a search operation in the area, triggering a fierce gun battle with heavily armed militants.

Encounter between armed forces and terrorists in Lasana village, Jammu & Kashmir

Belgium has confirmed that Indian fugitive Mehul Choksi was arrested by law enforcement on Saturday (Apr 12) for being involved in fraudulent activities. However, extraditing the fugitive diamond merchant may not be as simple for India.
The 65-year-old has been wanted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) in India since 2018. He had allegedly defrauded Punjab National Bank (PNB) of Rs 13,850 crore.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-belgium-confirms-mehul-choksis-arrest-indian-extradition-request-8960987">Exclusive: Belgium confirms Mehul Choksi's arrest, Indian extradition request</a>
<h2>&lsquo;Extradition is not an easy task&rsquo;</h2>
Fugitive Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium. How long can his extradition take?
&ldquo;Extradition is not an easy task. Choksi's wallet is full, and he will employ the best lawyers in Europe to avoid the process like what Vijay Maliya has been doing. I don't think it is going to be easy for India to get him back,&rdquo; he said as quoted by ANI.
&ldquo;When he was caught in Antigua (Dominica) and other islands, he could manage to get out of it because he has a fleet of lawyers. But I wish and hope that this time, the Indian government will succeed,&rdquo; he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/had-to-happen-former-law-minister-ravi-shankar-prasad-on-mehul-choksis-arrest-8960293">'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest</a>
Former diplomat KP Fabian said while India can request extradition, the final decision was up to the Belgian government. Choksi can also challenge the extradition and make an appeal in court.
&ldquo;It will be great if it can be done, but again, Rana, how many years has he taken us? When was 26/11, 2008. And we got him in 2025. So, all these, all the extradition proceedings will take time. But there can be obstacles,&rdquo; he said. He added that an Interpol Red Corner Notice for the diamond merchant had been withdrawn in 2023, likely because it was not working.
&ldquo;Well, I'll put it this way: India wants him extradited, and Belgium has to take the decision. Now, even the Belgium Internal affairs and the foreign affairs, take that decision. Choksi has the option of going to court in Belgium. And then there can be arguments, pros and cons,&rdquo; he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-ground-for-plea-is-his-ill-health-mehul-choksis-legal-team-to-file-appeal-for-his-release-8959858">'Major ground for plea is his ill health': Mehul Choksi's legal team to file appeal for his release</a>
He added, &ldquo;We can&rsquo;t jump to the conclusion that tomorrow or day after Belgium is going to extradite him because there is a legal process, even if the Belgian government decides, he can go to court. So, whether eventually he'll be extradited or not at this moment we can't say, but obviously we should try hard, as hard as necessary to get him.&rdquo;
<h2>What did Choksi&rsquo;s lawyer say?</h2>
Following his arrest, Mehul Choksi&rsquo;s lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, said that if the businessman were to be extradited, his human rights would be &ldquo;greatly affected.&rdquo;
His team would challenge any attempt to extradite him, he said during a press conference on Monday (Apr 14).
&ldquo;Basically, we will be defending it on two grounds. It is a political case, and secondly, it is because of the human rights conditions in India,&rdquo; he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-most-important-thing-is-pnb-scam-whistle-blower-on-mehul-choksi-arrest-in-belgium-8959547">'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium</a>
&ldquo;We have always maintained in the entire court that he is ready to join, but because of his medical condition, he cannot travel. That is why we initially maintained that the Indian agency could investigate, and he will join on VC (video conference). That is why, to date, everyone has been declared a fugitive, but Mehul Choksi is not a fugitive. Our case has been going on for years now,&rdquo; Aggarwal said.
Talking about Choksi's health condition, he said, &ldquo;He is extremely sick. He is undergoing treatment for cancer, and the last time he was picked up from Antigua by the Indian agencies, because of the torture, he was feeling very claustrophobic and had got some permanent deformities, as well as suffering from PTSD.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

According to Hariprasad, one of the complainants in a case against Mehul Choksi, extradition would be difficult as the accused businessman had a fleet of lawyers, who earlier allowed him to evade the law. India news

Belgium has confirmed that Indian fugitive Mehul Choksi was arrested by law enforcement on Saturday (Apr 12) for being involved in fraudulent activities. However, extraditing the fugitive diamond merchant may not be as simple for India. The 65-year-old has been wanted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) in India since 2018. He had allegedly defrauded Punjab National Bank (PNB) of Rs 13,850 crore. Also read | Exclusive: Belgium confirms Mehul Choksi's arrest, Indian extradition request ‘Extradition is not an easy task’ Fugitive Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium. How long can his extradition take? “Extradition is not an easy task. Choksi's wallet is full, and he will employ the best lawyers in Europe to avoid the process like what Vijay Maliya has been doing. I don't think it is going to be easy for India to get him back,” he said as quoted by ANI. “When he was caught in Antigua (Dominica) and other islands, he could manage to get out of it because he has a fleet of lawyers. But I wish and hope that this time, the Indian government will succeed,” he added. Also read | 'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest Former diplomat KP Fabian said while India can request extradition, the final decision was up to the Belgian government. Choksi can also challenge the extradition and make an appeal in court. “It will be great if it can be done, but again, Rana, how many years has he taken us? When was 26/11, 2008. And we got him in 2025. So, all these, all the extradition proceedings will take time. But there can be obstacles,” he said. He added that an Interpol Red Corner Notice for the diamond merchant had been withdrawn in 2023, likely because it was not working. “Well, I'll put it this way: India wants him extradited, and Belgium has to take the decision. Now, even the Belgium Internal affairs and the foreign affairs, take that decision. Choksi has the option of going to court in Belgium. And then there can be arguments, pros and cons,” he said. Also read | 'Major ground for plea is his ill health': Mehul Choksi's legal team to file appeal for his release He added, “We can’t jump to the conclusion that tomorrow or day after Belgium is going to extradite him because there is a legal process, even if the Belgian government decides, he can go to court. So, whether eventually he'll be extradited or not at this moment we can't say, but obviously we should try hard, as hard as necessary to get him.” What did Choksi’s lawyer say? Following his arrest, Mehul Choksi’s lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, said that if the businessman were to be extradited, his human rights would be “greatly affected.” His team would challenge any attempt to extradite him, he said during a press conference on Monday (Apr 14). “Basically, we will be defending it on two grounds. It is a political case, and secondly, it is because of the human rights conditions in India,” he added. Also read | 'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium “We have always maintained in the entire court that he is ready to join, but because of his medical condition, he cannot travel. That is why we initially maintained that the Indian agency could investigate, and he will join on VC (video conference). That is why, to date, everyone has been declared a fugitive, but Mehul Choksi is not a fugitive. Our case has been going on for years now,” Aggarwal said. Talking about Choksi's health condition, he said, “He is extremely sick. He is undergoing treatment for cancer, and the last time he was picked up from Antigua by the Indian agencies, because of the torture, he was feeling very claustrophobic and had got some permanent deformities, as well as suffering from PTSD.” (With inputs from agencies)

Fugitive Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium. How long can his extradition take?

<div>In an era marked by blurred facts and rising noise, Zee News is proud to present a voice that rises above it all. Rahul Sinha, one of India&rsquo;s most respected and experienced journalists, will be the bold editorial force the nation needs. With the resolute mission of&nbsp;&lsquo;बुलंदआवाज़...विश्वसनीयसंवाद...100% राष्ट्रवाद&rsquo;&nbsp;(Bold Voice, Credible Communication, 100% Nationalism), Rahul Sinha is set to redefine news analysis for India.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>A veteran with over 27 years of fearless journalism, Rahul Sinha is not just returning to an anchor&rsquo;s seat but is reclaiming the frontline for truth, national interest, and the common Indian citizen. Anchoring Zee News&rsquo; flagship show DNA (Daily News &amp; Analysis) every night at 9 PM, Sinha brings with him not only decades of experience but also the conviction and courage to ask the right questions, challenge narratives, and stand firmly with the nation.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Over the decades, Sinha has earned recognition for his relentless pursuit of facts, incisive news judgment, and a deep connection with national narratives. As he steps back into the spotlight, he brings not just credibility, but an emotional bond with a show he once made iconic.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Mr. Rahul Sinha, Managing Editor, Zee News, said, &ldquo;Zee News&rsquo; DNA is more than a mirror to the nation&rsquo;s concerns. As a journalist who has spent over two decades reporting, anchoring, and leading, returning to DNA is both a privilege and a responsibility. Today, when the country needs clarity and conviction in communication, DNA will be that bold and honest voice for every Indian.&rdquo;</div>
<h2>Relevance redefined: Why DNA matters now more than ever</h2>
<div>In an age where news cycles are increasingly rapid, and agendas cloud the facts, DNA is deeply rooted in credibility, courage, and accountability. This show will focus on decoding complex developments, highlighting stories of national significance, and raising questions that others often avoid. Whether it&rsquo;s politics, policy, society, or international affairs &mdash; DNA looks forward to explore the real impact on India and its citizens.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Mr. Karan Abhishek Singh, CEO, Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), said, &ldquo;DNA will continue to be a transformative force in Indian news with the mission of awakening the nation. As DNA takes on a fresh and dynamic avatar under Rahul Sinha's leadership, it aligns with the evolving expectations of citizens. With a sharper, stronger approach, we look forward to redefining news analysis by diving deeper into the issues that matter most. In this renewed format, Rahul Sinha's role will be instrumental in guiding the show&rsquo;s editorial direction, bringing his vast experience and commitment to truth. In an era where clarity and courage in journalism are essential, our commitment is to empower citizens with truth, ask the tough questions, and deliver news that drives real impact. We are here to awaken the nation, one story at a time.&rdquo;</div>
<h2>What citizens can expect from the new DNA:</h2>
<div>&bull;&nbsp;Anchored by experience:&nbsp;Rahul Sinha brings three decades of journalism and unflinching integrity</div>
<div>&bull;&nbsp;Deep Analysis of top stories:&nbsp;More than just news &mdash; insight, investigation, and context</div>
<div>&bull;&nbsp;Editorial Independence &amp; bold questions:&nbsp;Stories that matter, voices that challenge</div>
<div>&bull;&nbsp;A pulse on national sentiment:&nbsp;Connecting with the Indian citizen&rsquo;s expectations and issues</div>
<div>&bull;&nbsp;Strong Nationalist spirit:&nbsp;Showcasing India&rsquo;s strength, challenges, and progress with pride</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>DNA is a reminder that credible journalism still holds immense power to inform, awaken, and drive change.</div>

Rahul Sinha, one of India’s most respected and experienced journalists, will be the bold editorial force the nation needs. India news

In an era marked by blurred facts and rising noise, Zee News is proud to present a voice that rises above it all. Rahul Sinha, one of India’s most respected and experienced journalists, will be the bold editorial force the nation needs. With the resolute mission of ‘बुलंदआवाज़...विश्वसनीयसंवाद...100% राष्ट्रवाद’ (Bold Voice, Credible Communication, 100% Nationalism), Rahul Sinha is set to redefine news analysis for India. A veteran with over 27 years of fearless journalism, Rahul Sinha is not just returning to an anchor’s seat but is reclaiming the frontline for truth, national interest, and the common Indian citizen. Anchoring Zee News’ flagship show DNA (Daily News & Analysis) every night at 9 PM, Sinha brings with him not only decades of experience but also the conviction and courage to ask the right questions, challenge narratives, and stand firmly with the nation. Over the decades, Sinha has earned recognition for his relentless pursuit of facts, incisive news judgment, and a deep connection with national narratives. As he steps back into the spotlight, he brings not just credibility, but an emotional bond with a show he once made iconic. Mr. Rahul Sinha, Managing Editor, Zee News, said, “Zee News’ DNA is more than a mirror to the nation’s concerns. As a journalist who has spent over two decades reporting, anchoring, and leading, returning to DNA is both a privilege and a responsibility. Today, when the country needs clarity and conviction in communication, DNA will be that bold and honest voice for every Indian.” Relevance redefined: Why DNA matters now more than ever In an age where news cycles are increasingly rapid, and agendas cloud the facts, DNA is deeply rooted in credibility, courage, and accountability. This show will focus on decoding complex developments, highlighting stories of national significance, and raising questions that others often avoid. Whether it’s politics, policy, society, or international affairs — DNA looks forward to explore the real impact on India and its citizens. Mr. Karan Abhishek Singh, CEO, Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), said, “DNA will continue to be a transformative force in Indian news with the mission of awakening the nation. As DNA takes on a fresh and dynamic avatar under Rahul Sinha's leadership, it aligns with the evolving expectations of citizens. With a sharper, stronger approach, we look forward to redefining news analysis by diving deeper into the issues that matter most. In this renewed format, Rahul Sinha's role will be instrumental in guiding the show’s editorial direction, bringing his vast experience and commitment to truth. In an era where clarity and courage in journalism are essential, our commitment is to empower citizens with truth, ask the tough questions, and deliver news that drives real impact. We are here to awaken the nation, one story at a time.” What citizens can expect from the new DNA: • Anchored by experience: Rahul Sinha brings three decades of journalism and unflinching integrity • Deep Analysis of top stories: More than just news — insight, investigation, and context • Editorial Independence & bold questions: Stories that matter, voices that challenge • A pulse on national sentiment: Connecting with the Indian citizen’s expectations and issues • Strong Nationalist spirit: Showcasing India’s strength, challenges, and progress with pride DNA is a reminder that credible journalism still holds immense power to inform, awaken, and drive change.

Rahul Sinha to lead Zee News' DNA with bold voice, credible communication, and 100% nationalism

Violent clashes broke out in the South 24 Parganas district of India&rsquo;s eastern state of West Bengal on Monday after supporters of the Indian Secular Front (ISF) clashed with the police during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act.
South 24 Parganas became the second district of the state where protests against the new Waqf laws have turned violent after the Muslim-dominated Murshidabad.
The conflict began when police stopped Indian Secular Front (ISF) supporters near Bhojerhat on the Basanti Highway, where a large number of ISF workers had gathered from Bhangar and neighbouring areas of Minakhan and Sandeshkhali. The ISF supporters were heading towards Ramlila Maidan in central Kolkata to attend an anti-Waqf (Amendment) Act rally addressed by party leader and Bhangar MLA Naushad Siddique, reported news agency PTI.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9h6z6gv-5gp22ey6-zpz5w8bu">
VIDEO | West Bengal: Tension in South 24 Parganas' Bhangar as Indian Secular Front (ISF) workers clashed with city police. They also set a van ablaze. More details awaited. (Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/bnF8OnGu37">https://t.co/bnF8OnGu37</a>) <a href="https://t.co/fk17Jufpl3">pic.twitter.com/fk17Jufpl3</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1911754223135735917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
 The confrontation brought traffic to a standstill, as ISF supporters sat on the highway in protest. Tension escalated when the crowd attempted to break through police barricades, leading to a clash.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/post/8955166">3 killed in West Bengal as protests against Waqf law turn violent; Calcutta HC orders deployment of central forces</a>
 &ldquo;Some police vehicles were set on fire by the protesters, and a few police personnel were injured when the agitators attacked the law enforcers,&rdquo; a senior police officer told PTI.
Police said no permission had been given for the rally, which was held nonetheless and at which Siddique called the new law &ldquo;an attack on Muslims and an assault on the Constitution&rdquo;.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This law is not just an attack on Muslims, it is an assault on the Constitution. We won't accept this Act. The government that supports such laws must go,&rdquo; he said. ISF also accused the BJP of trying to incite communal tension and the ruling Trinamool Congress of suppressing opposition protests. &ldquo;The chief minister has said the new Waqf law will not be implemented in West Bengal. We welcome that. But then why are police stopping our workers from attending a peaceful rally? Does the right to protest belong only to the Trinamool Congress?&rdquo; Siddique asked.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ed-initiates-possession-of-over-76mn-assets-in-national-herald-money-laundering-case-8955050" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ED initiates possession of over $76mn assets in National Herald money laundering case</a>
A senior cop confirmed some police personnel were injured in the clashes, while eyewitnesses said the cops conducted a lathi-charge to disperse protesters.
A large police force, including senior officers, was deployed to bring the situation under control. A high alert was sounded in the nearby areas.&nbsp; Videos on social media showed police motorcycles set ablaze and an overturned police bus with its windshield ripped out.&nbsp;
Last week, three people were killed, railway tracks were blocked, and there was arson and vandalism in Muslim-dominated Murshidabad district. Police arrested over 200 people in connection with that violence. It was also reported that more than 400 Hindus were forced to flee from the violence-hit areas of Samserganj in Murshidabad.
The Murshidabad violence was mentioned in the Supreme Court on Monday, and the petitioner sought a court-monitored investigation by a central agency into the violent clashes. The Supreme Court will hear 15 petitions challenging the new Waqf laws on April 16.
Visuals from the affected areas showed charred vehicles. (PTI)

India News: South 24 Parganas became the second district of the state where protests against the new Waqf laws have turned violent after the Muslim-dominated Murshidabad.

Violent clashes broke out in the South 24 Parganas district of India’s eastern state of West Bengal on Monday after supporters of the Indian Secular Front (ISF) clashed with the police during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. South 24 Parganas became the second district of the state where protests against the new Waqf laws have turned violent after the Muslim-dominated Murshidabad. The conflict began when police stopped Indian Secular Front (ISF) supporters near Bhojerhat on the Basanti Highway, where a large number of ISF workers had gathered from Bhangar and neighbouring areas of Minakhan and Sandeshkhali. The ISF supporters were heading towards Ramlila Maidan in central Kolkata to attend an anti-Waqf (Amendment) Act rally addressed by party leader and Bhangar MLA Naushad Siddique, reported news agency PTI. VIDEO | West Bengal: Tension in South 24 Parganas' Bhangar as Indian Secular Front (ISF) workers clashed with city police. They also set a van ablaze. More details awaited. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/bnF8OnGu37) pic.twitter.com/fk17Jufpl3 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 14, 2025 The confrontation brought traffic to a standstill, as ISF supporters sat on the highway in protest. Tension escalated when the crowd attempted to break through police barricades, leading to a clash. Also Read | 3 killed in West Bengal as protests against Waqf law turn violent; Calcutta HC orders deployment of central forces “Some police vehicles were set on fire by the protesters, and a few police personnel were injured when the agitators attacked the law enforcers,” a senior police officer told PTI. Police said no permission had been given for the rally, which was held nonetheless and at which Siddique called the new law “an attack on Muslims and an assault on the Constitution”. “This law is not just an attack on Muslims, it is an assault on the Constitution. We won't accept this Act. The government that supports such laws must go,” he said. ISF also accused the BJP of trying to incite communal tension and the ruling Trinamool Congress of suppressing opposition protests. “The chief minister has said the new Waqf law will not be implemented in West Bengal. We welcome that. But then why are police stopping our workers from attending a peaceful rally? Does the right to protest belong only to the Trinamool Congress?” Siddique asked. Also Read | ED initiates possession of over $76mn assets in National Herald money laundering case A senior cop confirmed some police personnel were injured in the clashes, while eyewitnesses said the cops conducted a lathi-charge to disperse protesters. A large police force, including senior officers, was deployed to bring the situation under control. A high alert was sounded in the nearby areas. Videos on social media showed police motorcycles set ablaze and an overturned police bus with its windshield ripped out. Last week, three people were killed, railway tracks were blocked, and there was arson and vandalism in Muslim-dominated Murshidabad district. Police arrested over 200 people in connection with that violence. It was also reported that more than 400 Hindus were forced to flee from the violence-hit areas of Samserganj in Murshidabad. The Murshidabad violence was mentioned in the Supreme Court on Monday, and the petitioner sought a court-monitored investigation by a central agency into the violent clashes. The Supreme Court will hear 15 petitions challenging the new Waqf laws on April 16. Visuals from the affected areas showed charred vehicles. (PTI)

After Murshidabad, violence erupts in Bengal’s South 24 Parganas over Waqf law

Leaders of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir have raised the issue of the reported slashing of India&rsquo;s private Hajj quota by 80 per cent, and urged the Ministry of External Affairs of the Indian government to intervene in the matter and ensure all applicants can go on pilgrimage to Mecca.&nbsp;
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has appealed to the Prime Minister to speak with the leaders of Saudi Arabia on the issue.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9h2j8qu-r1bg8tm2-wmvrpxze">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Srinagar | On Saudi Arabia slashing private Hajj quota, National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah says, "I appeal to the Prime Minister to speak with the leaders of Saudi Arabia and urge them to not reduce our quota (of Hajj pilgrims). There is also the question&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/7aoweZviC7">pic.twitter.com/7aoweZviC7</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911681443706662926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
 People&rsquo;s Democratic Party (PDP) chief, Mehbooba Mufti, termed the sudden decision &lsquo;disturbing news&rsquo; and said that it has caused distress to pilgrims and tour operators. She also urged the Union Ministry of External Affairs to &lsquo;immediately&rsquo; intervene and take up the reported slashing of the private Hajj pilgrim quote for Indian pilgrims by 80 per cent with the government of Saudi Arabia. &ldquo;Disturbing news emerging from Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that 80% of India&rsquo;s private Hajj quota has been cut abruptly,&rdquo; Mufti said in a post on X on Sunday. &ldquo;This sudden decision is causing immense distress for pilgrims and tour operators across the country. Urge Ministry of External Affairs to immediately intervene by taking up this matter with the Saudi government to seek a resolution.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9h2jzqi-aulq8tov-kpqw42ch">
Disturbing news emerging from Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that 80% of India&rsquo;s private Haj quota has been cut abruptly. This sudden decision is causing immense distress for pilgrims and tour operators across the country. Urge the Ministry of External Affairs to immediately&hellip;
&mdash; Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) <a href="https://twitter.com/MehboobaMufti/status/1911387411529027823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged MEA S Jaishankar to engage with the Saudi authorities to explore a resolution in the interest of all affected pilgrims. Abdullah said cancellation of Hajj slots for over &ldquo;52,000 Indian pilgrims&rdquo;, many of whom have already completed payments, is deeply concerning. &ldquo;This measure is crucial to ease the distress of thousands hoping to undertake the sacred pilgrimage this year,&rdquo; said Abdullah in a post on X from his official handle.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9h2kihr-u6pyjj41-b3twggs6">
The reported cancellation of Hajj slots for over 52,000 Indian pilgrims, many of whom have already completed payments, is deeply concerning. I urge Hon&rsquo;ble Minister of External Affairs <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> to engage with the Saudi authorities at the earliest to explore a resolution in&hellip;
&mdash; Office of Chief Minister, J&amp;K (@CM_JnK) <a href="https://twitter.com/CM_JnK/status/1911427132913222115?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
In January 2025, India signed a Haj agreement with Saudi Arabia, finalising a quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims.&nbsp; Union Ministry of Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju signed the agreement with Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Minister for Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah in Jeddah. &ldquo;Hajj Agreement 2025 signed with Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister for Hajj and Umrah of Kindom of Saudi Arabia. Finalized a quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India for Hajj 2025. We are committed to providing the best possible services to all our HajJ pilgrims,&rdquo; Rijiju said in a post on X in January.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9h2kzu1-h9er5i56-htstvuhp">
Haj Agreement 2025 signed with H.E. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister for Hajj and Umrah of Kindom of Saudi Arabia. Finalized a quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haj2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haj2025</a> 🕋 We are committed to provide best possible services to all our Haj Pilgrims. <a href="https://t.co/YdzxEdZLjJ">pic.twitter.com/YdzxEdZLjJ</a>
&mdash; Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju/status/1878708710165663803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
There has been no official statement from the Indian government so far on the reported slashing of Hajj quota by Saudi authorities. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has taken many crowd control measures for Hajj this year by imposing new travel restrictions.&nbsp; It has also decided not to issue visas to children under 12 for Hajj, as per reports, following which the Haj Committee of India cancelled applications of 291 children under 12 years who had applied for a visa to accompany their parents to perform Umrah.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-2025-saudi-arabia-bans-pilgrims-from-taking-their-children-along-8707786">Hajj 2025: Saudi Arabia bans pilgrims from taking their children along</a>
Saudi Arabia has also implemented significant changes to its visa policy for travellers from 14 countries, including India, and suspended one-year multiple-entry visas.
Under the revised rules, visitors from the 14 affected countries can only obtain single-entry visas with a validity of 30 days. Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas remain unaffected by these restrictions. Saudi officials said some travellers enter on long-term visas and remain beyond their permitted stay to work or participate in Hajj without authorisation.
Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina, the two holiest cities of Islam in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrimage is performed during a particular period that culminates with Eid-ul-Adha. This year Hajj is expected to take place from June 4 to June 9, 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon marking the beginning of Zil-Hajj, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/%20https:/www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-women-need-permission-of-parents-or-husbands-to-perform-hajj-in-2025-8602523" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Also read: Pakistani women need permission of parents or husbands to perform Hajj in 2025</a>
In India, the Hajj pilgrimage is conducted either through the Hajj Committee of India (HCoI), a statutory organisation under the administrative control of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, or through Private Tour Operators (PTOs) also known as Hajj Group Organisers (HGOs).

India News: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the cancellation of Hajj slots for over “52,000 Indian pilgrims”, many of whom have already completed payments, is deeply concerning.

Leaders of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir have raised the issue of the reported slashing of India’s private Hajj quota by 80 per cent, and urged the Ministry of External Affairs of the Indian government to intervene in the matter and ensure all applicants can go on pilgrimage to Mecca. National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has appealed to the Prime Minister to speak with the leaders of Saudi Arabia on the issue. #WATCH | Srinagar | On Saudi Arabia slashing private Hajj quota, National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah says, "I appeal to the Prime Minister to speak with the leaders of Saudi Arabia and urge them to not reduce our quota (of Hajj pilgrims). There is also the question… pic.twitter.com/7aoweZviC7 — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2025 People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief, Mehbooba Mufti, termed the sudden decision ‘disturbing news’ and said that it has caused distress to pilgrims and tour operators. She also urged the Union Ministry of External Affairs to ‘immediately’ intervene and take up the reported slashing of the private Hajj pilgrim quote for Indian pilgrims by 80 per cent with the government of Saudi Arabia. “Disturbing news emerging from Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that 80% of India’s private Hajj quota has been cut abruptly,” Mufti said in a post on X on Sunday. “This sudden decision is causing immense distress for pilgrims and tour operators across the country. Urge Ministry of External Affairs to immediately intervene by taking up this matter with the Saudi government to seek a resolution.” Disturbing news emerging from Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that 80% of India’s private Haj quota has been cut abruptly. This sudden decision is causing immense distress for pilgrims and tour operators across the country. Urge the Ministry of External Affairs to immediately… — Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) April 13, 2025 Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged MEA S Jaishankar to engage with the Saudi authorities to explore a resolution in the interest of all affected pilgrims. Abdullah said cancellation of Hajj slots for over “52,000 Indian pilgrims”, many of whom have already completed payments, is deeply concerning. “This measure is crucial to ease the distress of thousands hoping to undertake the sacred pilgrimage this year,” said Abdullah in a post on X from his official handle. The reported cancellation of Hajj slots for over 52,000 Indian pilgrims, many of whom have already completed payments, is deeply concerning. I urge Hon’ble Minister of External Affairs @DrSJaishankar to engage with the Saudi authorities at the earliest to explore a resolution in… — Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) April 13, 2025 In January 2025, India signed a Haj agreement with Saudi Arabia, finalising a quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims. Union Ministry of Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju signed the agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Minister for Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah in Jeddah. “Hajj Agreement 2025 signed with Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister for Hajj and Umrah of Kindom of Saudi Arabia. Finalized a quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India for Hajj 2025. We are committed to providing the best possible services to all our HajJ pilgrims,” Rijiju said in a post on X in January. Haj Agreement 2025 signed with H.E. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister for Hajj and Umrah of Kindom of Saudi Arabia. Finalized a quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India for #Haj2025 🕋 We are committed to provide best possible services to all our Haj Pilgrims. pic.twitter.com/YdzxEdZLjJ — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) January 13, 2025 There has been no official statement from the Indian government so far on the reported slashing of Hajj quota by Saudi authorities. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has taken many crowd control measures for Hajj this year by imposing new travel restrictions. It has also decided not to issue visas to children under 12 for Hajj, as per reports, following which the Haj Committee of India cancelled applications of 291 children under 12 years who had applied for a visa to accompany their parents to perform Umrah. Also read | Hajj 2025: Saudi Arabia bans pilgrims from taking their children along Saudi Arabia has also implemented significant changes to its visa policy for travellers from 14 countries, including India, and suspended one-year multiple-entry visas. Under the revised rules, visitors from the 14 affected countries can only obtain single-entry visas with a validity of 30 days. Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas remain unaffected by these restrictions. Saudi officials said some travellers enter on long-term visas and remain beyond their permitted stay to work or participate in Hajj without authorisation. Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina, the two holiest cities of Islam in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrimage is performed during a particular period that culminates with Eid-ul-Adha. This year Hajj is expected to take place from June 4 to June 9, 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon marking the beginning of Zil-Hajj, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar. Also read: Pakistani women need permission of parents or husbands to perform Hajj in 2025 In India, the Hajj pilgrimage is conducted either through the Hajj Committee of India (HCoI), a statutory organisation under the administrative control of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, or through Private Tour Operators (PTOs) also known as Hajj Group Organisers (HGOs).

Did Saudi Arabia ‘slash’ India's private Hajj quota by 80%? J&K leaders urge MEA, PM to intervene

Srinagar: For the first time since India&rsquo;s independence, Simari, a border village in the Karnah Valley of North Kashmir&rsquo;s Kupwara district, has been fully electrified and LPG-enabled through a joint initiative of the Indian Army&rsquo;s Vajr Division and the Aseem Foundation, under the aegis of Chinar Corps.
Situated on the Line of Control, with one half of the village in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Simari holds a key strategic and democratic importance as Polling Booth No. 1 of India.
Until now, the villagers struggled with limited power and primitive cooking facilities. This project has transformed 53 households with solar microgrids and clean cooking LPG kits, significantly improving the quality of life.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-three-terrorists-killed-in-kishtwar-encounter-operation-continues-8952824" rel="noopener" target="_blank">J&amp;K: Three terrorists killed in Kishtwar encounter, operation continues</a>
&ldquo;The initiative is dedicated in the memory of Col. Santosh Mahadik, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal, who laid down his life in service to the nation. In a solemn tribute, Col. Mahadik&rsquo;s mother, Mrs. Kalinda Mahadik and Mr. Sarang Gosavi, Founder &amp; MD of Aseem Foundation, jointly inaugurated the solar electrification system in Simari,&rdquo; said the Indian Army.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by over 300 villagers, including women, children, and local elders. The emotionally charged gathering reflected a deep sense of pride, gratitude, and unity, as electricity finally brought happiness to the homes.&nbsp; The Indian Army&rsquo;s steadfast commitment to border area development is in alignment with the Government of India&rsquo;s Vibrant Villages Programme. It reinforces the Army&rsquo;s role not just as defenders of the nation, but also as partners in progress&mdash;bringing light, dignity, and opportunity to even the remotest frontiers of India.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kashmiri-pandits-demand-a-bill-like-waqf-for-preserving-temple-and-associated-properties-in-jammu-and-kashmir-8951832" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Kashmiri Pandits demand a bill like Waqf for preserving temple and associated properties in Jammu and Kashmir</a>
The village, comprising 53 homes and a population of 347 people, has been divided into four micro-grid clusters. Each cluster is equipped with solar panels, inverters, batteries, and necessary electrical infrastructure to ensure a steady power supply. Homes were outfitted with LED lighting, power sockets, and protective limiters, bringing light into spaces that had for long lived in darkness.

India News: Until now, the villagers struggled with limited power and primitive cooking facilities. This project has transformed 53 households with solar microgrids and clean cooking LPG kits, significantly improving the quality of life.

Srinagar: For the first time since India’s independence, Simari, a border village in the Karnah Valley of North Kashmir’s Kupwara district, has been fully electrified and LPG-enabled through a joint initiative of the Indian Army’s Vajr Division and the Aseem Foundation, under the aegis of Chinar Corps. Situated on the Line of Control, with one half of the village in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Simari holds a key strategic and democratic importance as Polling Booth No. 1 of India. Until now, the villagers struggled with limited power and primitive cooking facilities. This project has transformed 53 households with solar microgrids and clean cooking LPG kits, significantly improving the quality of life. Also Read | J&K: Three terrorists killed in Kishtwar encounter, operation continues “The initiative is dedicated in the memory of Col. Santosh Mahadik, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal, who laid down his life in service to the nation. In a solemn tribute, Col. Mahadik’s mother, Mrs. Kalinda Mahadik and Mr. Sarang Gosavi, Founder & MD of Aseem Foundation, jointly inaugurated the solar electrification system in Simari,” said the Indian Army. The inauguration ceremony was attended by over 300 villagers, including women, children, and local elders. The emotionally charged gathering reflected a deep sense of pride, gratitude, and unity, as electricity finally brought happiness to the homes. The Indian Army’s steadfast commitment to border area development is in alignment with the Government of India’s Vibrant Villages Programme. It reinforces the Army’s role not just as defenders of the nation, but also as partners in progress—bringing light, dignity, and opportunity to even the remotest frontiers of India. Also read: Kashmiri Pandits demand a bill like Waqf for preserving temple and associated properties in Jammu and Kashmir The village, comprising 53 homes and a population of 347 people, has been divided into four micro-grid clusters. Each cluster is equipped with solar panels, inverters, batteries, and necessary electrical infrastructure to ensure a steady power supply. Homes were outfitted with LED lighting, power sockets, and protective limiters, bringing light into spaces that had for long lived in darkness.

Indian Army illuminates Simari village, close to LoC, in Kashmir’s Kupwara district

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday (Apr 14), accused the Congress party of spreading "votebank ka virus" for opposing the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, claiming they prioritize vote bank politics over social welfare.
He also criticized the grand old party for treating SC and ST communities as "second-class citizens.
"Congress has become the destroyer of Constitutions. Dr BR Ambedkar wanted to bring in equality, but Congress spread the virus of vote bank politics. Babasaheb wanted every poor, every backward to be able to live with dignity and with their head held high, to have dreams and complete them," PM Modi said during his address in Haryana's Hisar.
"In the time of Congress, the doors of the bank used to not even open for SC, ST OBC; loan, welfare, everything was just a dream, but now the biggest beneficiaries of Jan Dhan accounts are SC, ST brothers and sisters," he added.
He said that there were "lakhs of hectares of land" under the Waqf board, yet the property and the assets weren't utilised effectively to benefit the poor and needy.&nbsp;
"There are lakhs of hectares of land in the name of Waqf. If benefits from Waqf properties had been given to the needy, it would have benefited them. But on land mafia benefitted from these properties," the prime minister said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9gu8xck-ze3oae7j-yklrzsdo">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Hisar, Haryana | PM Modi says, "There are lakhs of hectares of land in the name of Waqf. If benefits from Waqf properties had been given to the needy, it would have benefitted them. But on land mafia benefitted from these properties ...The loot of the poor will stop with&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/U61bZN6u8P">pic.twitter.com/U61bZN6u8P</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911656866465079722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'The loot of the poor will stop'</h2>
The Indian prime minister stated that the change in the Waqf law and the amendments made to the act would stop the "loot of land".
"The loot of the poor will stop with this amended Waqf law. Under the new Waqf law, land or property belonging to any Adivasi cannot be touched by the Waqf Board...Poor Muslims and Pasmanda Muslims will get their rights. This is real social justice."
He then accused Congress of "humiliating" Babasaheb Ambedkar, stating that the grand old party fought elections against Ambedkar.
"We should not forget what Congress did to Babasaheb. Congress humiliated him while he was alive. They made him lose elections twice. Congress even tried to erase his memory. Congress also tried to destroy Baba Saheb's ideas forever. Dr Ambedkar was the protector of the Constitution, but Congress has become the destroyer of the Constitution," he said.
PM Modi said that the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) were treated like "second-class citizens" by the Congress.
"Congress treated SCs, STs, and OBCs as second-class citizens in this country. While Congress leaders enjoyed luxuries like swimming pools, only 16 out of every 100 households in villages had access to piped water and among those affected the most were SCs, STs, and OBCs. In just six to seven years, our government provided water connections to over 12 crore rural households. Now, 80 out of every 100 rural homes have access to clean water, and we are committed to taking that number to 100 per cent," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: The Indian prime minister stated that the change in the Waqf law and the amendments made to the act would stop the "loot of land".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday (Apr 14), accused the Congress party of spreading "votebank ka virus" for opposing the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, claiming they prioritize vote bank politics over social welfare. He also criticized the grand old party for treating SC and ST communities as "second-class citizens. "Congress has become the destroyer of Constitutions. Dr BR Ambedkar wanted to bring in equality, but Congress spread the virus of vote bank politics. Babasaheb wanted every poor, every backward to be able to live with dignity and with their head held high, to have dreams and complete them," PM Modi said during his address in Haryana's Hisar. "In the time of Congress, the doors of the bank used to not even open for SC, ST OBC; loan, welfare, everything was just a dream, but now the biggest beneficiaries of Jan Dhan accounts are SC, ST brothers and sisters," he added. He said that there were "lakhs of hectares of land" under the Waqf board, yet the property and the assets weren't utilised effectively to benefit the poor and needy. "There are lakhs of hectares of land in the name of Waqf. If benefits from Waqf properties had been given to the needy, it would have benefited them. But on land mafia benefitted from these properties," the prime minister said. #WATCH | Hisar, Haryana | PM Modi says, "There are lakhs of hectares of land in the name of Waqf. If benefits from Waqf properties had been given to the needy, it would have benefitted them. But on land mafia benefitted from these properties ...The loot of the poor will stop with… pic.twitter.com/U61bZN6u8P — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2025 'The loot of the poor will stop' The Indian prime minister stated that the change in the Waqf law and the amendments made to the act would stop the "loot of land". "The loot of the poor will stop with this amended Waqf law. Under the new Waqf law, land or property belonging to any Adivasi cannot be touched by the Waqf Board...Poor Muslims and Pasmanda Muslims will get their rights. This is real social justice." He then accused Congress of "humiliating" Babasaheb Ambedkar, stating that the grand old party fought elections against Ambedkar. "We should not forget what Congress did to Babasaheb. Congress humiliated him while he was alive. They made him lose elections twice. Congress even tried to erase his memory. Congress also tried to destroy Baba Saheb's ideas forever. Dr Ambedkar was the protector of the Constitution, but Congress has become the destroyer of the Constitution," he said. PM Modi said that the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) were treated like "second-class citizens" by the Congress. "Congress treated SCs, STs, and OBCs as second-class citizens in this country. While Congress leaders enjoyed luxuries like swimming pools, only 16 out of every 100 households in villages had access to piped water and among those affected the most were SCs, STs, and OBCs. In just six to seven years, our government provided water connections to over 12 crore rural households. Now, 80 out of every 100 rural homes have access to clean water, and we are committed to taking that number to 100 per cent," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi accuses Congress of spreading 'votebank virus' for opposing Waqf Act

Former minister of law and justice and BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said the arrest of fugitive businessman Mehul Choski "had to happen".&nbsp;
While talking to reporters in Biahr's Patna, Prasad said, "We came here to attend the program held on the occasion of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar's birth anniversary. I pay my respects to the architect of the Constitution, who inspires people even today. Mehul Choksi arrest had to happen. PM Narendra Modi's government does not spare anyone," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehul-choksi-how-a-diamond-tycoon-became-a-wanted-fugitive-the-rise-and-ruin-of-business-magnate-wion-explains-8959491">Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive? The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains</a>
Choksi was arrested in Belgium on Saturday (April 12) after India's demand for his extradition.&nbsp;
After the arrest, Vaibhav Khuraniya, one of the complainants in a fraud case against Choksi, said that it may not be easy to bring the business magnet back to India due to legal complexities involved in extradition.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-most-important-thing-is-pnb-scam-whistle-blower-on-mehul-choksi-arrest-in-belgium-8959547">'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium</a>
"I just hope, although I don't think it's going to work out. Since they couldn't get Vijay Mallya for so long, I don't think he can be brought back to India so easily because there are so many legalities which are involved. I suppose he has carried this kind of fraud across the world. He has been selling very low-quality diamonds at exceptionally high rates. That's probably why even Nirav Modi is in jail," Khuraniya told news agency ANI.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-businessman-mehul-choksi-accused-of-defrauding-pnb-bank-living-in-belgium-report-8881635">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report</a>
"Only after he comes back to India will I be more hopeful than him being arrested there," he added.
In 2016, an FIR was filed against Choksi based on the complaint of Khuraniya.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, businessman Robert Vadra says, "It is a very big thing for the country. Arresting is a different thing, but it is important that the money of the people who have been should be recovered, and the government should think about it. Nirav Modi and other people should also be brought back, and the government should ensure that the losses of the people are taken care of by the government..." ANI reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-ground-for-plea-is-his-ill-health-mehul-choksis-legal-team-to-file-appeal-for-his-release-8959858">'Major ground for plea is his ill health': Mehul Choksi's legal team to file appeal for his release</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Former minister of law and justice and BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said the arrest of fugitive businessman Mehul Choski "had to happen".

Former minister of law and justice and BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said the arrest of fugitive businessman Mehul Choski "had to happen". While talking to reporters in Biahr's Patna, Prasad said, "We came here to attend the program held on the occasion of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar's birth anniversary. I pay my respects to the architect of the Constitution, who inspires people even today. Mehul Choksi arrest had to happen. PM Narendra Modi's government does not spare anyone," news agency ANI reported. Also read: Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive? The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains Choksi was arrested in Belgium on Saturday (April 12) after India's demand for his extradition. After the arrest, Vaibhav Khuraniya, one of the complainants in a fraud case against Choksi, said that it may not be easy to bring the business magnet back to India due to legal complexities involved in extradition. Also read: 'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium "I just hope, although I don't think it's going to work out. Since they couldn't get Vijay Mallya for so long, I don't think he can be brought back to India so easily because there are so many legalities which are involved. I suppose he has carried this kind of fraud across the world. He has been selling very low-quality diamonds at exceptionally high rates. That's probably why even Nirav Modi is in jail," Khuraniya told news agency ANI. Also read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report "Only after he comes back to India will I be more hopeful than him being arrested there," he added. In 2016, an FIR was filed against Choksi based on the complaint of Khuraniya. Meanwhile, businessman Robert Vadra says, "It is a very big thing for the country. Arresting is a different thing, but it is important that the money of the people who have been should be recovered, and the government should think about it. Nirav Modi and other people should also be brought back, and the government should ensure that the losses of the people are taken care of by the government..." ANI reported. Also read: 'Major ground for plea is his ill health': Mehul Choksi's legal team to file appeal for his release (With inputs from agencies)

'Had to happen': Former law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Mehul Choksi's arrest

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When Karun Nair came out to bat on Sunday against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, he looked like he was a man on a mission to prove himself. Smashing 89 off just 41 balls in his IPL comeback for Delhi Capitals, he took down bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Trent Boult with 12 fours and five gigantic sixes. He did not just bat but dominated from ball one.
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This epic return was a moment fans had been waiting for, especially after Karun&rsquo;s emotional 2022 viral tweet: &ldquo;Dear Cricket, give me one more chance.&rdquo; He waited patiently, worked hard and when the opportunity came, he grabbed it with both hands.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9gr2i6s-mfa7qoj7-k45ww1cr">
Dear cricket, give me one more chance.🤞🏽
&mdash; Karun Nair (@karun126) <a href="https://twitter.com/karun126/status/1601578615619350531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Karun Nair&rsquo;s name is forever etched in Indian cricket history. Back in 2016, he became only the second Indian after Virender Sehwag to score a triple century in Tests, an unbeaten 303 against England in Chennai that won him the Player of the Match.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ipl-2025-ayush-mhatre-all-of-17-replaces-ruturaj-gaikwad-at-csk-know-more-about-mumbai-opener-8959912" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Ayush Mhatre, all of 17, replaces Ruturaj Gaikwad at CSK. Know more about Mumbai opener</a> 
But shockingly, he was dropped right after that innings as Ajinkya Rahane returned from an injury for the next game. Despite being in the squad, Karun played just six Tests more and was never given a consistent run to cement his spot.<span class="EOP SCXW231648997 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW231648997 BCX0">
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW231648997 BCX0" lang="EN-US">Up and above</h2>
Refusing to look down, Karun played domestic cricket regularly and performed well. Leading Vidarbha in the 2024&ndash;25 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he scored 779 runs in seven innings, averaging 389.5 with five centuries. His 88* off 44 in the semi-final against Maharashtra was another reminder of his class. These performances earned him a well-deserved IPL call-up from Delhi Capitals.<span class="EOP SCXW231648997 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
<span class="EOP SCXW231648997 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ipl-2025-rohit-sharmas-reaction-to-bumrah-karun-nair-brawl-wins-internet-video-goes-viral-watch-8959496" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s reaction to Bumrah-Karun Nair fight wins internet, video goes viral &ndash; WATCH</a> 
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW231648997 BCX0">
Now, with the Test series in England just around the corner, fans are hopeful of watching him play Test cricket. As India prepares for a Test series in England this June, the excitement is real and rising &mdash; Can this be Karun&rsquo;s year? Only time will tell.<span class="EOP SCXW231648997 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
<span class="EOP SCXW231648997 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">(With inputs from agencies)
</div>

On his first IPL game since 2022, Karun Nair scored a brilliant 89 off 40 balls against Mumbai Indians, hitting 17 boundaries in total. India news, Cricket, Sports

When Karun Nair came out to bat on Sunday against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025, he looked like he was a man on a mission to prove himself. Smashing 89 off just 41 balls in his IPL comeback for Delhi Capitals, he took down bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Trent Boult with 12 fours and five gigantic sixes. He did not just bat but dominated from ball one. This epic return was a moment fans had been waiting for, especially after Karun’s emotional 2022 viral tweet: “Dear Cricket, give me one more chance.” He waited patiently, worked hard and when the opportunity came, he grabbed it with both hands. Dear cricket, give me one more chance.🤞🏽 — Karun Nair (@karun126) December 10, 2022 Karun Nair’s name is forever etched in Indian cricket history. Back in 2016, he became only the second Indian after Virender Sehwag to score a triple century in Tests, an unbeaten 303 against England in Chennai that won him the Player of the Match. Also read | IPL 2025: Ayush Mhatre, all of 17, replaces Ruturaj Gaikwad at CSK. Know more about Mumbai opener But shockingly, he was dropped right after that innings as Ajinkya Rahane returned from an injury for the next game. Despite being in the squad, Karun played just six Tests more and was never given a consistent run to cement his spot. Up and above Refusing to look down, Karun played domestic cricket regularly and performed well. Leading Vidarbha in the 2024–25 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he scored 779 runs in seven innings, averaging 389.5 with five centuries. His 88* off 44 in the semi-final against Maharashtra was another reminder of his class. These performances earned him a well-deserved IPL call-up from Delhi Capitals. Also read | IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma’s reaction to Bumrah-Karun Nair fight wins internet, video goes viral – WATCH Now, with the Test series in England just around the corner, fans are hopeful of watching him play Test cricket. As India prepares for a Test series in England this June, the excitement is real and rising — Can this be Karun’s year? Only time will tell. (With inputs from agencies)

'Dear Cricket, give me one more chance' – Karun Nair’s viral tweet turns into dream comeback

India's West Bengal is under turmoil after violence erupted in Murshidabad over the recent implementation of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-is-waqf-board-and-why-does-the-indian-government-want-to-curb-its-powers-747223">Waqf Amendment Act</a>. As per the reports, as many as 150 people have been arrested so far over an alleged connection with the violence. As per the reports, five companies of BSF (Border Security Force) were deployed in the Muslim-dominated district.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) has claimed that more than 400 Hindus were "forced to flee" the city after the violence.&nbsp;
The clashes erupted in the two cities of West Bengal: Murshidabad and Jangipur. Protesters clashed with the police, pelted stones, and set vehicles on fire in their protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025.&nbsp;
As per the statement of the West Bengal Police, at least three people have lost their lives in the violence on Friday (April 11).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/150-arrested-in-bengal-as-waqf-sparks-violence-in-murshidabad-bjp-claims-hindu-families-fleeing-homes-8957295">150 arrested in Bengal as Waqf sparks violence in Murshidabad, BJP claims Hindu families fleeing homes</a>
The Centre has assured all possible support to the state government and has announced the deployment of additional forces to help curb the violence.&nbsp;
<h2>'J&amp;K-like situation'?&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, BJP MP Jyotirmay Singh Mahato has demanded the imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in four West Bengal districts amid the violence.&nbsp;
He wrote a letter to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah requesting the implementation of &nbsp;AFSPA in &nbsp;Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia and South 24 Parganas districts. He alleged that the ongoing clash is a targeted violence against Hindus living in these areas, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/father-son-duo-among-3-killed-in-west-bengal-as-protest-against-new-waqf-law-turns-violent-8955166">3 killed in West Bengal as protests against Waqf law turn violent; Calcutta HC orders deployment of central forces</a>
He compared the Murshidabad violence with Jammu and Kashmir. "For the last many days, a 'Jammu &amp; Kashmir type' situation - when Hindus were forced to migrate in the 1990s - has been created, especially in these four districts of Bengal," Mahato told ANI.
"I have requested the Union Home Minister to implement AFSPA and hand over control to the central forces. Otherwise, what happened in Syria or is happening in Bangladesh, what happened in Jammu &amp; Kashmir - a similar situation is unfolding here now," he added.
He further insisted that Mirshidabad should be declared a "disturbed area".&nbsp;
<h2>'Hindus are being hunted'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kashmiri-pandits-demand-a-bill-like-waqf-for-preserving-temple-and-associated-properties-in-jammu-and-kashmir-8951832">Kashmiri Pandits demand a bill like Waqf for preserving temple and associated properties in Jammu and Kashmir</a>
BJP leader and West Bengal Assembly's Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has alleged that "appeasement politics" on TMC (ruling party in West Bengal) has "emboldened radical elements".&nbsp;
Adhikari took to the social media platform X and wrote, "More than 400 Hindus from Dhulian, Murshidabad, driven by fear of religiously driven bigots, were forced to flee across the river &amp; take shelter at Par Lalpur High School, Deonapur-Sovapur GP, Baisnabnagar, Malda." He even shared pictures and videos from the areas.&nbsp;
"Religious persecution in Bengal is real. The appeasement politics of the TMC have emboldened radical elements. Hindus are being hunted, our people are running for their lives in their own land! Shame on the State Govt for allowing this breakdown of law &amp; order," Adhoikari wrote.&nbsp;
<h2>Owaisi's protest call&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, adding fuel to the fire, Hyderabad MP and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi announced a public protest meeting against the Waqf Act on Sunday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/waqf-india-politics-muslim-petitions-state-elections-hindu-muslim-uttar-pradesh-assam-west-bengal-tamil-nadu-kerala-8946081">Waqf, the 'burning' issue of Indian politics: Upcoming state elections will play it, and politicians will use it. See how</a>
&ldquo;A public protest meeting is being organised by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board against the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 on 19th April from 7 pm to 10 pm in Hyderabad Darussalam. It will be presided over by the President of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Khalid Saifullah Rahmani,&rdquo; Owaisi said at a press conference.
<h2>'Mamata Banerjee knows how to run Bengal'</h2>
After all this, the TMC has claimed that the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee knows "how to run Bengal" and that she has called for a meeting to "pacify the Muslim community".&nbsp;
TMC MP Saugata Roy said, "Mamata Banerjee is the leader of the people of Bengal. She knows how to run Bengal. There is no place for the BJP here. People are unhappy over the Waqf Amendment Bill, so the Chief Minister has called a meeting to pacify the Muslim community. People's sentiments are agitated over the Waqf Bill. The reaction was spontaneous."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Meanwhile, the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) has claimed that more than 400 Hindus were "forced to flee" the city after the violence.

India's West Bengal is under turmoil after violence erupted in Murshidabad over the recent implementation of the Waqf Amendment Act. As per the reports, as many as 150 people have been arrested so far over an alleged connection with the violence. As per the reports, five companies of BSF (Border Security Force) were deployed in the Muslim-dominated district. Meanwhile, the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) has claimed that more than 400 Hindus were "forced to flee" the city after the violence. The clashes erupted in the two cities of West Bengal: Murshidabad and Jangipur. Protesters clashed with the police, pelted stones, and set vehicles on fire in their protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025. As per the statement of the West Bengal Police, at least three people have lost their lives in the violence on Friday (April 11). Also read: 150 arrested in Bengal as Waqf sparks violence in Murshidabad, BJP claims Hindu families fleeing homes The Centre has assured all possible support to the state government and has announced the deployment of additional forces to help curb the violence. 'J&K-like situation'? Meanwhile, BJP MP Jyotirmay Singh Mahato has demanded the imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in four West Bengal districts amid the violence. He wrote a letter to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah requesting the implementation of AFSPA in Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia and South 24 Parganas districts. He alleged that the ongoing clash is a targeted violence against Hindus living in these areas, news agency PTI reported. Also read: 3 killed in West Bengal as protests against Waqf law turn violent; Calcutta HC orders deployment of central forces He compared the Murshidabad violence with Jammu and Kashmir. "For the last many days, a 'Jammu & Kashmir type' situation - when Hindus were forced to migrate in the 1990s - has been created, especially in these four districts of Bengal," Mahato told ANI. "I have requested the Union Home Minister to implement AFSPA and hand over control to the central forces. Otherwise, what happened in Syria or is happening in Bangladesh, what happened in Jammu & Kashmir - a similar situation is unfolding here now," he added. He further insisted that Mirshidabad should be declared a "disturbed area". 'Hindus are being hunted' Also read: Kashmiri Pandits demand a bill like Waqf for preserving temple and associated properties in Jammu and Kashmir BJP leader and West Bengal Assembly's Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has alleged that "appeasement politics" on TMC (ruling party in West Bengal) has "emboldened radical elements". Adhikari took to the social media platform X and wrote, "More than 400 Hindus from Dhulian, Murshidabad, driven by fear of religiously driven bigots, were forced to flee across the river & take shelter at Par Lalpur High School, Deonapur-Sovapur GP, Baisnabnagar, Malda." He even shared pictures and videos from the areas. "Religious persecution in Bengal is real. The appeasement politics of the TMC have emboldened radical elements. Hindus are being hunted, our people are running for their lives in their own land! Shame on the State Govt for allowing this breakdown of law & order," Adhoikari wrote. Owaisi's protest call Meanwhile, adding fuel to the fire, Hyderabad MP and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi announced a public protest meeting against the Waqf Act on Sunday. Also read: Waqf, the 'burning' issue of Indian politics: Upcoming state elections will play it, and politicians will use it. See how “A public protest meeting is being organised by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board against the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 on 19th April from 7 pm to 10 pm in Hyderabad Darussalam. It will be presided over by the President of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Khalid Saifullah Rahmani,” Owaisi said at a press conference. 'Mamata Banerjee knows how to run Bengal' After all this, the TMC has claimed that the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee knows "how to run Bengal" and that she has called for a meeting to "pacify the Muslim community". TMC MP Saugata Roy said, "Mamata Banerjee is the leader of the people of Bengal. She knows how to run Bengal. There is no place for the BJP here. People are unhappy over the Waqf Amendment Bill, so the Chief Minister has called a meeting to pacify the Muslim community. People's sentiments are agitated over the Waqf Bill. The reaction was spontaneous." (With inputs from agencies)

'J&K-like situation'? What's happening in West Bengal's Murshidabad, city under violence after Waqf enforcement? WION Explains

IPL franchise <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> roped in uncapped 17-year-old Mumbai rookie opener Ayush Mhatre as Ruturaj Gaikwad&rsquo;s replacement for the remainder of the season. CSK captain suffered a fracture in his elbow earlier during the away Rajasthan Royals game in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, and though he batted in that game and even played CSK&rsquo;s next two matches, scans on his troubled elbow ruled him out of this edition.
Per the latest reports, CSK called up Mhatre for a trial around two weeks ago to get the hang of his batting in the nets, later deciding to rope him as Gaikwad&rsquo;s replacement for this season.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ipl-2025-rohit-sharmas-reaction-to-bumrah-karun-nair-brawl-wins-internet-video-goes-viral-watch-8959496" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s reaction to Bumrah-Karun Nair fight wins internet, video goes viral &ndash; WATCH</a>
The right-handed batter, Mhatre, featured for Mumbai in nine matches, scoring two hundreds and a fifty. He played seven List A matches for Mumbai, scoring 181 against Nagaland and 148 against Saurashtra during the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9gpdjcg-k37rrott-1nn4v85e">
1⃣8⃣1⃣ runs | 1⃣1⃣7⃣ balls | 1⃣1⃣ sixes | 1⃣5⃣ fours 💪💪 Watch snippets of Mumbai's Ayush Mhatre's record-breaking knock of 181 against Nagaland in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VijayHazareTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VijayHazareTrophy</a> in Ahmedabad, making him the youngest player to score 150-plus in men's List A cricket 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/VGyzBoLPW8">pic.twitter.com/VGyzBoLPW8</a>
&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIdomestic/status/1874441950746857699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
The reports suggest he will be linking up with the CSK squad sooner, but there is no word about him getting a chance right away. CSK faces LSG in IPL 2025 on Monday (Apr 14). &nbsp;
Considering Gaikwad was CSK&rsquo;s best batter thus far this season, having hit 152 runs in five contested matches, his untimely injury further dented CSK, who are languishing at the bottom of the points table with just two points from six contested matches.
<h2>Who is Ayush Mhatre?&nbsp;</h2>
Ayush Mhatre is a young and exciting top-order batter. Hailing from Virar &ndash; a small village nearly 50 km from Mumbai City, Ayush used to travel to the famed Oval Maidan stadium, catching a 5 AM train, for which he used to wake up at 4:15. &nbsp;
In a chat with the Indian Express last year, Mhatre revealed he began playing as a six-year-old but got serious about pursuing cricket as a career when he turned ten. Detailing his journey from a toddler who had a passion for this game to achieving his dream as an upcoming teenage sensation in Mumbai and now in IPL cricket, Mhatre said,&nbsp;
&ldquo;I started to play when I was 6, but my real cricket started when I was 10,&rdquo; Mhatre said during a chat with The Indian Express last year. &nbsp;
&ldquo;I got admission in Don Bosco High School in Matunga, and it was my grandfather Laxmikant Naik (Nana), who took the responsibility to take me there every day. So, in the morning, I used to go for practice in Matunga, attend school, and then go to Church Gate to attend another practice. My family used to tell my grandfather not to ruin my sleep, but now, they too feel that my sacrifice is paying off,&rdquo; he continued. &nbsp;
Mhatre also revealed how even after his father lost his job one time, he never let him realise the financial struggles the family was facing in the background and that he is always grateful for the support he received from them in this journey.&nbsp;
&ldquo;My father and mother never made me realise that there is some financial problem at home. Like, if a bat is broken, then I didn&rsquo;t ask for a new one. Even today, my father travels with me on the local train so that if any verbal fight happens with someone, he will handle it, so that I don&rsquo;t take any negativity when I&rsquo;m going to bat,&rdquo; he added.
Meanwhile, veteran gloveman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-to-captain-csk-in-ipl-2025-after-regular-captain-ruled-out-with-injury-report-8947982" rel="dofollow">MS Dhoni is leading CSK for the remainder of this season</a> in Gaikwad's absence.
(With inputs from agencies)

CSK called up Ayush Mhatre for a trial around two weeks ago, later deciding to rope him as Gaikwad’s replacement for IPL 2025. India news, Cricket, Sports

IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roped in uncapped 17-year-old Mumbai rookie opener Ayush Mhatre as Ruturaj Gaikwad’s replacement for the remainder of the season. CSK captain suffered a fracture in his elbow earlier during the away Rajasthan Royals game in IPL 2025, and though he batted in that game and even played CSK’s next two matches, scans on his troubled elbow ruled him out of this edition. Per the latest reports, CSK called up Mhatre for a trial around two weeks ago to get the hang of his batting in the nets, later deciding to rope him as Gaikwad’s replacement for this season. Also read | IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma’s reaction to Bumrah-Karun Nair fight wins internet, video goes viral – WATCH The right-handed batter, Mhatre, featured for Mumbai in nine matches, scoring two hundreds and a fifty. He played seven List A matches for Mumbai, scoring 181 against Nagaland and 148 against Saurashtra during the Vijay Hazare Trophy. 1⃣8⃣1⃣ runs | 1⃣1⃣7⃣ balls | 1⃣1⃣ sixes | 1⃣5⃣ fours 💪💪 Watch snippets of Mumbai's Ayush Mhatre's record-breaking knock of 181 against Nagaland in the #VijayHazareTrophy in Ahmedabad, making him the youngest player to score 150-plus in men's List A cricket 👌@IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/VGyzBoLPW8 — BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 1, 2025 The reports suggest he will be linking up with the CSK squad sooner, but there is no word about him getting a chance right away. CSK faces LSG in IPL 2025 on Monday (Apr 14). Considering Gaikwad was CSK’s best batter thus far this season, having hit 152 runs in five contested matches, his untimely injury further dented CSK, who are languishing at the bottom of the points table with just two points from six contested matches. Who is Ayush Mhatre? Ayush Mhatre is a young and exciting top-order batter. Hailing from Virar – a small village nearly 50 km from Mumbai City, Ayush used to travel to the famed Oval Maidan stadium, catching a 5 AM train, for which he used to wake up at 4:15. In a chat with the Indian Express last year, Mhatre revealed he began playing as a six-year-old but got serious about pursuing cricket as a career when he turned ten. Detailing his journey from a toddler who had a passion for this game to achieving his dream as an upcoming teenage sensation in Mumbai and now in IPL cricket, Mhatre said, “I started to play when I was 6, but my real cricket started when I was 10,” Mhatre said during a chat with The Indian Express last year. “I got admission in Don Bosco High School in Matunga, and it was my grandfather Laxmikant Naik (Nana), who took the responsibility to take me there every day. So, in the morning, I used to go for practice in Matunga, attend school, and then go to Church Gate to attend another practice. My family used to tell my grandfather not to ruin my sleep, but now, they too feel that my sacrifice is paying off,” he continued. Mhatre also revealed how even after his father lost his job one time, he never let him realise the financial struggles the family was facing in the background and that he is always grateful for the support he received from them in this journey. “My father and mother never made me realise that there is some financial problem at home. Like, if a bat is broken, then I didn’t ask for a new one. Even today, my father travels with me on the local train so that if any verbal fight happens with someone, he will handle it, so that I don’t take any negativity when I’m going to bat,” he added. Meanwhile, veteran gloveman MS Dhoni is leading CSK for the remainder of this season in Gaikwad's absence. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Ayush Mhatre, all of 17, replaces Ruturaj Gaikwad at CSK. Know more about Mumbai opener

After Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium, his lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, on Monday (Apr 14), said that his defence team would be filing an appeal to release the fugitive businessman from custody, citing health concerns and ongoing cancer treatment.
The action against Choksi was taken on Saturday (Apr 12) in Belgium, after the local authorities confirmed his presence in the country, news agency ANI reported, citing sources.
After the Interpol Red Notice against him for arrest was "deleted", Indian agencies, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the CBI, moved for his extradition from Belgium, according to PTI.
However, the diamantaire's defense team is gearing up for a legal fight, planning to seek bail and argue that it would hinder his extradition.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-most-important-thing-is-pnb-scam-whistle-blower-on-mehul-choksi-arrest-in-belgium-8959547">Also read: 'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi arrest in Belgium</a>
<h2>'The major ground for the plea is his ill health'</h2>
"My client, Mehul Choksi, has been arrested in Belgium, and at the moment, he is in custody. We will be starting the process of filing an appeal against this, and then, as a process of appeal, we will be requesting that he be pulled out of prison. The major ground for the plea is his ill health and that he is undergoing cancer treatment, and of course, he is not a flight risk at all," Choksi's lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, told news agency ANI.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On fugitive Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium, his Advocate Vijay Aggarwal says, "My client Mehul Choksi has been arrested in Belgium and at the moment, he is in custody. We will be starting the process of filing an appeal against this, and then, as a process of&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/l00ZhN1BY5">pic.twitter.com/l00ZhN1BY5</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911639818578129056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
His legal team asserts that he has solid grounds to contest the extradition, citing health issues and other factors as key arguments.
"There is no push. It is a process. Non-bailable warrants have been issued against him since 2018. It is a prerequisite for extradition that there has to be an open-ended, non-bailable warrant. Earlier, they tried to pick him up from Dominica, where they failed. So then, by the Dominican court order, my client was getting his treatment in Antigua. For his medical treatment, he had to go to Belgium, and he has been there getting his treatment for the cancer. Arrest is a process," Aggarwal stated.
"Whenever for any country, there is an extradition request made by another country wherein they have a treaty. First of all, the person has to be arrested, then the person has to show that he's got community ties, and then we have to show that he is not a flight risk and that there is a medical condition. So that's the only ground," he added.&nbsp;
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On Indian agencies push for extradition of fugitive Mehul Choksi, his Advocate Vijay Aggarwal says, "There is no push. It is a process. Non-bailable warrants have been issued against him since 2018. It is a prerequisite for extradition that there has to be an&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/a79fOc0i59">pic.twitter.com/a79fOc0i59</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911642810370916635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
The 65-year-old diamond merchant is wanted by the CBI and ED for allegedly defrauding PNB of Rs 13,850 crore. He fled India on January 2, 2018. His nephew, Nirav Modi, was also implicated in the scam.&nbsp;
ED alleged that Choksi, his firm Gitanjali Gems and others "committed the offence of cheating against Punjab National Bank in connivance with certain bank officials by fraudulently getting the LOUs (letters of undertaking) issued and got the FLCs (foreign letter of credit) enhanced without following prescribed procedure and caused a wrongful loss to the bank."
Choksi fled India, initially going to the US before settling in Antigua, where he had obtained citizenship in 2017. He was later arrested in Dominica while allegedly attempting to flee to Cuba. However, his lawyer claimed he was kidnapped from Antigua.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: The 65-year-old diamond merchant is wanted by the CBI and ED for allegedly defrauding PNB of Rs 13,850 crore. He fled India on January 2, 2018. His nephew, Nirav Modi, was also implicated in the scam.

After Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium, his lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, on Monday (Apr 14), said that his defence team would be filing an appeal to release the fugitive businessman from custody, citing health concerns and ongoing cancer treatment. The action against Choksi was taken on Saturday (Apr 12) in Belgium, after the local authorities confirmed his presence in the country, news agency ANI reported, citing sources. After the Interpol Red Notice against him for arrest was "deleted", Indian agencies, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the CBI, moved for his extradition from Belgium, according to PTI. However, the diamantaire's defense team is gearing up for a legal fight, planning to seek bail and argue that it would hinder his extradition. Also read: 'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi arrest in Belgium 'The major ground for the plea is his ill health' "My client, Mehul Choksi, has been arrested in Belgium, and at the moment, he is in custody. We will be starting the process of filing an appeal against this, and then, as a process of appeal, we will be requesting that he be pulled out of prison. The major ground for the plea is his ill health and that he is undergoing cancer treatment, and of course, he is not a flight risk at all," Choksi's lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, told news agency ANI. #WATCH | Delhi: On fugitive Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium, his Advocate Vijay Aggarwal says, "My client Mehul Choksi has been arrested in Belgium and at the moment, he is in custody. We will be starting the process of filing an appeal against this, and then, as a process of… pic.twitter.com/l00ZhN1BY5 — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2025 His legal team asserts that he has solid grounds to contest the extradition, citing health issues and other factors as key arguments. "There is no push. It is a process. Non-bailable warrants have been issued against him since 2018. It is a prerequisite for extradition that there has to be an open-ended, non-bailable warrant. Earlier, they tried to pick him up from Dominica, where they failed. So then, by the Dominican court order, my client was getting his treatment in Antigua. For his medical treatment, he had to go to Belgium, and he has been there getting his treatment for the cancer. Arrest is a process," Aggarwal stated. "Whenever for any country, there is an extradition request made by another country wherein they have a treaty. First of all, the person has to be arrested, then the person has to show that he's got community ties, and then we have to show that he is not a flight risk and that there is a medical condition. So that's the only ground," he added. #WATCH | Delhi: On Indian agencies push for extradition of fugitive Mehul Choksi, his Advocate Vijay Aggarwal says, "There is no push. It is a process. Non-bailable warrants have been issued against him since 2018. It is a prerequisite for extradition that there has to be an… pic.twitter.com/a79fOc0i59 — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2025 The 65-year-old diamond merchant is wanted by the CBI and ED for allegedly defrauding PNB of Rs 13,850 crore. He fled India on January 2, 2018. His nephew, Nirav Modi, was also implicated in the scam. ED alleged that Choksi, his firm Gitanjali Gems and others "committed the offence of cheating against Punjab National Bank in connivance with certain bank officials by fraudulently getting the LOUs (letters of undertaking) issued and got the FLCs (foreign letter of credit) enhanced without following prescribed procedure and caused a wrongful loss to the bank." Choksi fled India, initially going to the US before settling in Antigua, where he had obtained citizenship in 2017. He was later arrested in Dominica while allegedly attempting to flee to Cuba. However, his lawyer claimed he was kidnapped from Antigua. (With inputs from agencies)

'Major ground for plea is his ill health': Mehul Choksi's legal team to file appeal for his release

After Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium, Punjab National Bank Scam whistle-blower Hariprasad SV said that India might face challenges in extraditing him.&nbsp;
Choksi's legal team is likely to contest the extradition, citing health issues and potentially using Belgian residency status to their advantage.&nbsp;
Hariprasad recalled the fugitive businessman's history of using legal loopholes, stating how he evaded the process when caught in Dominica.
"Extradition is not an easy task. Choksi's wallet is full, and he will employ the best lawyers in Europe to avoid the process like what Vijay Maliya has been doing. I don't think it is going to be easy for India to get him back," he said.
"When he was caught in Antigua (Dominica) and other islands, he could manage to get out of it because he has a fleet of lawyers. But I wish and hope that this time, the Indian government will succeed," Hariprasad said.
He further highlighted how Choksi cheated on nearly 100 franchises, with most of them filing cases in parts of India.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mehul-choksi-arrested-in-belgium-following-indias-extradition-request-sources-8959233">WATCH| Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium following India's extradition request: sources</a>
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1404_BREAKING_830AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1404_BREAKING_830AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=163&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium following India's extradition request: sources" id="PL_iframe_block-m9gm1jhq-vx1qdg6j-yh9flklb"></iframe>
"Even I got his arrest warrant from Bangalore police, but nothing really happened as he was smart enough to get away from the clutches of law," the PNB Scam whistle-blower said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9gm2edx-koshue1d-sy7vx1fr">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On fugitive Mehul Choksi, Punjab National Bank Scam whistle-blower Hariprasad SV says, "...The process we have to follow when we are dealing with a foreign country depends on the country that we are dealing with. The laws and the legal systems are going to take place. It&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/Mv5KjCZuDg">pic.twitter.com/Mv5KjCZuDg</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911631904526266860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
"The legal system in India is undoubtedly very great, but the extradition process depends on the country we are dealing with. This case is not going to be easy, as he has so much money," Hariprasad said.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fugitive-businessman-mehul-choksi-arrested-in-belgium-8959137">Also Read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium on India's extradition request</a>
<h2>'Most important thing is to get back billions of dollars'</h2>
Hariprasad, hailing Choksi's arrest by Belgium's Law Enforcement authorities, said that the most important thing following the fugitive businessman's detention was to get back the 'billions of dollars' he looted from India.
"Wow, Mehul Choksi getting arrested in Belgium is great news not only for India but also for all those who got cheated by him. The government must bring him back to India as soon as possible, and justice must be delivered," he said.
"Apart from bringing him back, the most important thing is to get back all those billions of dollars he looted from India and stashed anywhere in the world. Hopefully, the Government of India will succeed this time. Great news," Hariprasad said.
Bengaluru-based entrepreneur Hariprasad had alerted the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on July 26, 2016, about a potential large-scale scam.
Prasad, in his letter to PMO, raised concerns that the balance sheets contained clear indicators that something was amiss.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Hariprasad, hailing Choksi's arrest by Belgium's Law Enforcement authorities, said that the most important thing following the fugitive businessman's detention was to get back the 'billions of dollars' he looted from India.

After Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium, Punjab National Bank Scam whistle-blower Hariprasad SV said that India might face challenges in extraditing him. Choksi's legal team is likely to contest the extradition, citing health issues and potentially using Belgian residency status to their advantage. Hariprasad recalled the fugitive businessman's history of using legal loopholes, stating how he evaded the process when caught in Dominica. "Extradition is not an easy task. Choksi's wallet is full, and he will employ the best lawyers in Europe to avoid the process like what Vijay Maliya has been doing. I don't think it is going to be easy for India to get him back," he said. "When he was caught in Antigua (Dominica) and other islands, he could manage to get out of it because he has a fleet of lawyers. But I wish and hope that this time, the Indian government will succeed," Hariprasad said. He further highlighted how Choksi cheated on nearly 100 franchises, with most of them filing cases in parts of India. WATCH| Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium following India's extradition request: sources "Even I got his arrest warrant from Bangalore police, but nothing really happened as he was smart enough to get away from the clutches of law," the PNB Scam whistle-blower said. #WATCH | On fugitive Mehul Choksi, Punjab National Bank Scam whistle-blower Hariprasad SV says, "...The process we have to follow when we are dealing with a foreign country depends on the country that we are dealing with. The laws and the legal systems are going to take place. It… pic.twitter.com/Mv5KjCZuDg — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2025 "The legal system in India is undoubtedly very great, but the extradition process depends on the country we are dealing with. This case is not going to be easy, as he has so much money," Hariprasad said. Also Read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium on India's extradition request 'Most important thing is to get back billions of dollars' Hariprasad, hailing Choksi's arrest by Belgium's Law Enforcement authorities, said that the most important thing following the fugitive businessman's detention was to get back the 'billions of dollars' he looted from India. "Wow, Mehul Choksi getting arrested in Belgium is great news not only for India but also for all those who got cheated by him. The government must bring him back to India as soon as possible, and justice must be delivered," he said. "Apart from bringing him back, the most important thing is to get back all those billions of dollars he looted from India and stashed anywhere in the world. Hopefully, the Government of India will succeed this time. Great news," Hariprasad said. Bengaluru-based entrepreneur Hariprasad had alerted the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on July 26, 2016, about a potential large-scale scam. Prasad, in his letter to PMO, raised concerns that the balance sheets contained clear indicators that something was amiss. (With inputs from agencies)

'The most important thing is...': PNB Scam whistle-blower on Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium

Mehul Coksi - the fugitive Indian businessman has been arrested in Belgium after India's extradition request for his role in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case of more than ₹13,0000 million ($15,11,621.76). The arrest of the diamond merchant came weeks after the reports that he was staying in Belgium with his wife. He allegedly obtained the residency in Belgium and a residency card in 2023 with the help of his wife.&nbsp;
The media outlet revealed that Choksi doctored his legal documents with the help of his wife, who is a citizen of Belgium, and mispresented his nationality.&nbsp;
But how did a businessman who inherited his father&rsquo;s small jewellery business and transformed it into an empire become a wanted criminal? Here's the story.&nbsp;
<h2>The beginning&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fugitive-businessman-mehul-choksi-arrested-in-belgium-8959137">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium on India's extradition request</a>
Mehul Choksi was born in May 1959 in India's Mumbai. His father, Chinubhai Choksi, owned a small jewellery business named Gitanjali Jewelers, which later became the Gitanjali Groups - one of India's largest jewellery brands. Mehul Choksi expanded the brand and ended up opening as many as 4,000 retail stores across India. The brand started witnessing a booming international presence under Mehul's leadership.&nbsp;
Post his success, he became a familiar name when it came to mingling with celebrities and sponsoring Bollywood shows.&nbsp;
But things were not as good as they seemed. Behind this glamorous life, Choksi was spinning a financial web, one of the darkest frauds of India.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-businessman-mehul-choksi-accused-of-defrauding-pnb-bank-living-in-belgium-report-8881635">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report</a>
<h2>The great Indian bank heist</h2>
The year was 2018. India witnessed a massive shock when reports came that one of India's oldest lenders, PNB, had fallen into a fraud, as big as ₹13,500 crore (Over $15,11,621.76). Investigations revealed that Mehul Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, had siphoned off the money using fraudulently obtained Letters of Undertaking (LoUs) without proper collateral or security.
This was not an ordinary fraud that took place in a week or month. Choksi spent good 3 years (2014 - 2017) to plan and execute the fraud, bit by bit.&nbsp;
<h2>The escape act</h2>
Fearing a crackdown, Choksi ran from India in early 2018. It was a few weeks before the scam was unveiled. He landed in Antigua and Barbuda, secured citizenship using his best skill - fraud. In late May 2025, reports came that he was living in Belgium with his wife.&nbsp;
<h2>India's response</h2>
India's investigating agencies - CBI and ED - filed multiple cases against the fugitive businessman. Choksi's Indian passport was revoked. A Red Corner Notice (an alert issued at the request of a member country to locate and provisionally arrest individuals wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence for serious crimes) was also issued against him via Interpol.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-major-asset-recovery-nirmala-sitharaman-praises-eds-efforts-784910">Sitharaman lauds ED&rsquo;s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi</a>
But India failed in securing his extradition. Choksi cried foul, claiming political persecution and human rights violations. But India did not call it quits.&nbsp;
<h2>The Dominica drama</h2>
In 2021, Choksi mysteriously vanished from Antigua and turned up in Dominica. He accused Indian agents of kidnapping him. The claim was as eyebrow-raising as it sounds.&nbsp;
India swiftly reacted as the country sent legal teams to Dominica to get Choksi's extradition. But the criminal escaped and returned to Antigua on medical grounds.&nbsp;
<h2>Breakthrough in Belgium</h2>
In one of the biggest breakthroughs of India, Choksi was arrested on Saturday (April 12) in Belgium. Living under the radar with his wife in Antwerp, he was reportedly preparing to shift to Switzerland for medical treatment when Belgian authorities detained him. This was after India's demand to extradite him.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-lambasts-probe-agencies-blames-it-for-fugitives-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-and-vijay-mallya-fleeing-india-728298">Court lambasts probe agency, blames it for Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya fleeing India</a>
<h2>What lies ahead?&nbsp;</h2>
Indian legal teams are preparing to present strong evidence to Belgian courts. Although Choksi is likely to contest his extradition, citing health and human rights, India&rsquo;s documented history of legal proceedings, charge sheets, and red notices may prevail.
(With inputs from agencies)

Business & Economy | India News | The arrest of the diamond merchant came weeks after the reports that he was staying in Belgium with his wife. He allegedly obtained the residency in Belgium and a residency card in 2023 with the help of his wife.

Mehul Coksi - the fugitive Indian businessman has been arrested in Belgium after India's extradition request for his role in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case of more than ₹13,0000 million ($15,11,621.76). The arrest of the diamond merchant came weeks after the reports that he was staying in Belgium with his wife. He allegedly obtained the residency in Belgium and a residency card in 2023 with the help of his wife. The media outlet revealed that Choksi doctored his legal documents with the help of his wife, who is a citizen of Belgium, and mispresented his nationality. But how did a businessman who inherited his father’s small jewellery business and transformed it into an empire become a wanted criminal? Here's the story. The beginning Also read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium on India's extradition request Mehul Choksi was born in May 1959 in India's Mumbai. His father, Chinubhai Choksi, owned a small jewellery business named Gitanjali Jewelers, which later became the Gitanjali Groups - one of India's largest jewellery brands. Mehul Choksi expanded the brand and ended up opening as many as 4,000 retail stores across India. The brand started witnessing a booming international presence under Mehul's leadership. Post his success, he became a familiar name when it came to mingling with celebrities and sponsoring Bollywood shows. But things were not as good as they seemed. Behind this glamorous life, Choksi was spinning a financial web, one of the darkest frauds of India. Also read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report The great Indian bank heist The year was 2018. India witnessed a massive shock when reports came that one of India's oldest lenders, PNB, had fallen into a fraud, as big as ₹13,500 crore (Over $15,11,621.76). Investigations revealed that Mehul Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, had siphoned off the money using fraudulently obtained Letters of Undertaking (LoUs) without proper collateral or security. This was not an ordinary fraud that took place in a week or month. Choksi spent good 3 years (2014 - 2017) to plan and execute the fraud, bit by bit. The escape act Fearing a crackdown, Choksi ran from India in early 2018. It was a few weeks before the scam was unveiled. He landed in Antigua and Barbuda, secured citizenship using his best skill - fraud. In late May 2025, reports came that he was living in Belgium with his wife. India's response India's investigating agencies - CBI and ED - filed multiple cases against the fugitive businessman. Choksi's Indian passport was revoked. A Red Corner Notice (an alert issued at the request of a member country to locate and provisionally arrest individuals wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence for serious crimes) was also issued against him via Interpol. Also read: Sitharaman lauds ED’s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi But India failed in securing his extradition. Choksi cried foul, claiming political persecution and human rights violations. But India did not call it quits. The Dominica drama In 2021, Choksi mysteriously vanished from Antigua and turned up in Dominica. He accused Indian agents of kidnapping him. The claim was as eyebrow-raising as it sounds. India swiftly reacted as the country sent legal teams to Dominica to get Choksi's extradition. But the criminal escaped and returned to Antigua on medical grounds. Breakthrough in Belgium In one of the biggest breakthroughs of India, Choksi was arrested on Saturday (April 12) in Belgium. Living under the radar with his wife in Antwerp, he was reportedly preparing to shift to Switzerland for medical treatment when Belgian authorities detained him. This was after India's demand to extradite him. Also read: Court lambasts probe agency, blames it for Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya fleeing India What lies ahead? Indian legal teams are preparing to present strong evidence to Belgian courts. Although Choksi is likely to contest his extradition, citing health and human rights, India’s documented history of legal proceedings, charge sheets, and red notices may prevail. (With inputs from agencies)

Mehul Choksi: How a diamond tycoon became a wanted fugitive. The rise and ruin of the business magnate | WION Explains

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah-</a>Karun Nair had quite a face-off during Delhi Capitals' recently concluded home game against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>. While Bumrah, playing his second game this season, ended up on the winning side, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ipl-2025-tilak-powers-mumbai-indians-to-2055-against-delhi-capitals-8958569" rel="dofollow">Mumbai clinching this thriller by 12 runs</a>, Nair&rsquo;s monumental return to the cash-rich league had the internet talking. The right-handed batter impressed everyone with his brilliant 89 off 40 balls while chasing, hitting 17 boundaries, including five sixes, two of which came against Bumrah inside the Powerplay.
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Taking on the world&rsquo;s best bowler? <a href="https://twitter.com/karun126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@karun126</a> didn&rsquo;t hesitate! 👏 🗣 &ldquo;He&rsquo;s reading Bumrah like a book!&rdquo; - Harsha Bhogle, on air 🎙 Watch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/QAuja88phU">https://t.co/QAuja88phU</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvMI</a> | LIVE NOW on Star Sports Network &amp; JioHotstar! <a href="https://t.co/IG6LpKDGWk">pic.twitter.com/IG6LpKDGWk</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1911458841788547200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, when it looked like Nair had kept Delhi&rsquo;s nose ahead in this run chase, he got out to Mitchell Santner. But, before that, Nair and Bumrah got into an intense argument, with MI captain Hardik Pandya becoming the peacemaker; however, what caught everyone's attention was Rohit Sharma's funny reaction to this brawl. <span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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The incident occurred during one of Bumrah&rsquo;s overs when Nair ran into him unintentionally, only for the premier quick to lose his cool over the same. Even though Nair apologised to him midway through his second run by raising his hand in the air, Bumrah approached him during the drinks break soon after, exchanging some words. Pandya entered the scene trying to make peace between the two, with veteran MI batter Rohit giggling and making funny expressions standing at a distance.
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<h3 lang="EN-US" paraid="1272417532" paraeid="{7fd5a5cb-7fa6-4592-b6f9-c5dcb88848c8}{119}">Watch viral video -</h3>
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The average Delhi vs Mumbai debate in comments section 🫣 Don't miss <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> 's reaction at the end 😁 Watch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/QAuja88phU">https://t.co/QAuja88phU</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvMI</a> | LIVE NOW on Star Sports Network &amp; JioHotstar! <a href="https://t.co/FPt0XeYaqS">pic.twitter.com/FPt0XeYaqS</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1911470498715750682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
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<h2 lang="EN-US" paraid="474764677" paraeid="{7fd5a5cb-7fa6-4592-b6f9-c5dcb88848c8}{124}">Mumbai second's win this season</h2>
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Mumbai Indians return to winning ways after a poor start this edition. Known to be late risers or the comeback kings, MI won two games thus far, climbing to the sixth spot on the points table with four points from six contested matches.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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In an away game on Sunday night, MI batted first in Delhi, scoring a mammoth 205/5 in 20 overs. Rohit and Ryan Rickelton got MI off to a flyer, adding 47 inside five overs before Vipraj Nigam dismissed Rohit on 18.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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The MI&rsquo;s middle order contributed big time, from Suryakumar Yadav (40) to Tilak Varma (59) to Naman Dhir (38*) later in the innings, propelling them to go past 200.<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Delhi lost Fraser McGurk on a first-ball duck but steadied the ship by bringing in their Impact Sub &ndash; Karun Nair next, who added 119 for the second wicket with gloveman Abishek Porel. Though that partnership almost had MI in their pocket, losing wickets in cluster afterwards cost the hosts as they failed to reclaim any momentum, eventually going down by 12 runs.
<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">(With inputs from agencies)
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On his comeback game for DC in IPL 2025, Karun Nair smoked 18 runs off Jasprit Bumrah's second over, hitting him for two sixes and a four. India news, Cricket, Sports

Jasprit Bumrah-Karun Nair had quite a face-off during Delhi Capitals' recently concluded home game against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025. While Bumrah, playing his second game this season, ended up on the winning side, with Mumbai clinching this thriller by 12 runs, Nair’s monumental return to the cash-rich league had the internet talking. The right-handed batter impressed everyone with his brilliant 89 off 40 balls while chasing, hitting 17 boundaries, including five sixes, two of which came against Bumrah inside the Powerplay. Taking on the world’s best bowler? @karun126 didn’t hesitate! 👏 🗣 “He’s reading Bumrah like a book!” - Harsha Bhogle, on air 🎙 Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/QAuja88phU#IPLonJioStar 👉 #DCvMI | LIVE NOW on Star Sports Network & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/IG6LpKDGWk — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 13, 2025 Meanwhile, when it looked like Nair had kept Delhi’s nose ahead in this run chase, he got out to Mitchell Santner. But, before that, Nair and Bumrah got into an intense argument, with MI captain Hardik Pandya becoming the peacemaker; however, what caught everyone's attention was Rohit Sharma's funny reaction to this brawl. The incident occurred during one of Bumrah’s overs when Nair ran into him unintentionally, only for the premier quick to lose his cool over the same. Even though Nair apologised to him midway through his second run by raising his hand in the air, Bumrah approached him during the drinks break soon after, exchanging some words. Pandya entered the scene trying to make peace between the two, with veteran MI batter Rohit giggling and making funny expressions standing at a distance. Watch viral video - The average Delhi vs Mumbai debate in comments section 🫣 Don't miss @ImRo45 's reaction at the end 😁 Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/QAuja88phU#IPLonJioStar 👉 #DCvMI | LIVE NOW on Star Sports Network & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/FPt0XeYaqS — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 13, 2025 Mumbai second's win this season Mumbai Indians return to winning ways after a poor start this edition. Known to be late risers or the comeback kings, MI won two games thus far, climbing to the sixth spot on the points table with four points from six contested matches. In an away game on Sunday night, MI batted first in Delhi, scoring a mammoth 205/5 in 20 overs. Rohit and Ryan Rickelton got MI off to a flyer, adding 47 inside five overs before Vipraj Nigam dismissed Rohit on 18. The MI’s middle order contributed big time, from Suryakumar Yadav (40) to Tilak Varma (59) to Naman Dhir (38*) later in the innings, propelling them to go past 200. Delhi lost Fraser McGurk on a first-ball duck but steadied the ship by bringing in their Impact Sub – Karun Nair next, who added 119 for the second wicket with gloveman Abishek Porel. Though that partnership almost had MI in their pocket, losing wickets in cluster afterwards cost the hosts as they failed to reclaim any momentum, eventually going down by 12 runs. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma’s reaction to Bumrah-Karun Nair fight wins internet, video goes viral – WATCH

Absconding diamond jeweller Mehul Choksi, accused of involvement in Rs 13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan 'fraud' case, has been detained in Belgium, following an extradition request by Indian probe agencies.
The action against Choksi was taken on Saturday (Apr 12) in Belgium, after the local authorities confirmed his presence in the country, news agency ANI reported, citing sources.
After the Interpol Red Notice against him for arrest was "deleted", Indian agencies, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the CBI, moved for his extradition from Belgium, according to PTI.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mehul-choksi-arrested-in-belgium-following-indias-extradition-request-sources-8959233">WATCH | Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium following India's extradition request: sources</a>
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1404_BREAKING_830AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1404_BREAKING_830AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=163&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium following India's extradition request: sources" id="PL_iframe_block-m9gjj0z3-gzqugrqc-lgy6xpf0"></iframe>
<h2>Choksi's defense team set for legal battle</h2>
The diamantaire's defense team is gearing up for a legal fight, planning to seek bail and argue that it would hinder his extradition.
His legal team asserts that he has solid grounds to contest the extradition, citing health issues and other factors as key arguments.
The 65-year-old diamond merchant is wanted by the CBI and ED for allegedly defrauding PNB of Rs 13,850 crore. He fled India on January 2, 2018. His nephew, Nirav Modi, was also implicated in the scam.&nbsp;
ED alleged that Choksi, his firm Gitanjali Gems and others "committed the offence of cheating against Punjab National Bank in connivance with certain bank officials by fraudulently getting the LOUs (letters of undertaking) issued and got the FLCs (foreign letter of credit) enhanced without following prescribed procedure and caused a wrongful loss to the bank."
Choksi fled India, initially going to the US before settling in Antigua, where he had obtained citizenship in 2017. He was later arrested in Dominica while allegedly attempting to flee to Cuba. However, his lawyer claimed he was kidnapped from Antigua.
Dominica deported Mehul Choksi back to Antigua, despite India's extradition request. He then reportedly left for Belgium, citing cancer treatment.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Indian authorities have requested Belgium to initiate Mehul Choksi's extradition to India, according to a report by Associated Times, a media outlet focusing on the Caribbean region.

Absconding diamond jeweller Mehul Choksi, accused of involvement in Rs 13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan 'fraud' case, has been detained in Belgium, following an extradition request by Indian probe agencies. The action against Choksi was taken on Saturday (Apr 12) in Belgium, after the local authorities confirmed his presence in the country, news agency ANI reported, citing sources. After the Interpol Red Notice against him for arrest was "deleted", Indian agencies, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the CBI, moved for his extradition from Belgium, according to PTI. WATCH | Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium following India's extradition request: sources Choksi's defense team set for legal battle The diamantaire's defense team is gearing up for a legal fight, planning to seek bail and argue that it would hinder his extradition. His legal team asserts that he has solid grounds to contest the extradition, citing health issues and other factors as key arguments. The 65-year-old diamond merchant is wanted by the CBI and ED for allegedly defrauding PNB of Rs 13,850 crore. He fled India on January 2, 2018. His nephew, Nirav Modi, was also implicated in the scam. ED alleged that Choksi, his firm Gitanjali Gems and others "committed the offence of cheating against Punjab National Bank in connivance with certain bank officials by fraudulently getting the LOUs (letters of undertaking) issued and got the FLCs (foreign letter of credit) enhanced without following prescribed procedure and caused a wrongful loss to the bank." Choksi fled India, initially going to the US before settling in Antigua, where he had obtained citizenship in 2017. He was later arrested in Dominica while allegedly attempting to flee to Cuba. However, his lawyer claimed he was kidnapped from Antigua. Dominica deported Mehul Choksi back to Antigua, despite India's extradition request. He then reportedly left for Belgium, citing cancer treatment. (With inputs from agencies)

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi arrested in Belgium on India's extradition request

Mumbai Indians beat Delhi Capitals by 12 runs in a thrilling match at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 on Sunday (April 13). Despite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/karun-nair">Karun Nair</a>'s brilliant 89 off just 40 balls, Delhi couldn't hold their nerves towards the end. This was Delhi Capitals' first loss in this season.
For Mumbai, Karn Sharma was the pick of the bowler as he took 3/36, while Mitchell Santner took 2/43.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Earlier in the innings, A fifty from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tilak-varma">Tilak Varma</a>, and impactful innings by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a> and Naman Dhir powered Mumbai Indian (MI) to post 205/5 in their 20 overs against Delhi Capitals (DC).
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-they-won-in-powerplay-rr-skipper-samson-admits-after-big-loss-against-rcb-8958426">IPL 2025: 'They won in powerplay, RR skipper Samson admits after big loss against RCB</a>
Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel won the toss and opted to bowl against the Mumbai Indians in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 on Sunday (April 13).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kuldeep-yadav">Kuldeep Yadav</a>'s artistry was well complemented by young leg-spinner Vipraj Nigam's happy knack of picking wickets.&nbsp;On a track where stroke-making wasn't very difficult, the two wrist spinners from Uttar Pradesh snared four wickets between them while giving away 64 runs in their eight overs, which could be termed as brilliant considering the conditions.
Tilak Varma brought up his second fifty on the trot in the 17th over, he took 26 balls to reach the feat. DC showed brilliance on the field Axar Patel saved a six in the 18th over at long-on. Naman Dhir played an outstanding cameo of 38 runs in just 17 balls including three fours and two sixes
(With inputs from agencies)

India News, Cricket, Sports: Karun Nair's brilliant innings of 89 runs off just 40 balls goes in vain as Delhi Capitals lose to Mumbai Indians by 12 runs

Mumbai Indians beat Delhi Capitals by 12 runs in a thrilling match at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 on Sunday (April 13). Despite Karun Nair's brilliant 89 off just 40 balls, Delhi couldn't hold their nerves towards the end. This was Delhi Capitals' first loss in this season. For Mumbai, Karn Sharma was the pick of the bowler as he took 3/36, while Mitchell Santner took 2/43. Earlier in the innings, A fifty from Tilak Varma, and impactful innings by Suryakumar Yadav and Naman Dhir powered Mumbai Indian (MI) to post 205/5 in their 20 overs against Delhi Capitals (DC). Also Read: IPL 2025: 'They won in powerplay, RR skipper Samson admits after big loss against RCB Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel won the toss and opted to bowl against the Mumbai Indians in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 on Sunday (April 13). Kuldeep Yadav's artistry was well complemented by young leg-spinner Vipraj Nigam's happy knack of picking wickets. On a track where stroke-making wasn't very difficult, the two wrist spinners from Uttar Pradesh snared four wickets between them while giving away 64 runs in their eight overs, which could be termed as brilliant considering the conditions. Tilak Varma brought up his second fifty on the trot in the 17th over, he took 26 balls to reach the feat. DC showed brilliance on the field Axar Patel saved a six in the 18th over at long-on. Naman Dhir played an outstanding cameo of 38 runs in just 17 balls including three fours and two sixes (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians beat Delhi Capitals by 12 runs in a thriller

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati granted &ldquo;one more chance&rdquo; to nephew Akash Anand and re-inducted him into the party after his public apology for being under the &ldquo;influence&rdquo; of his father-in-law.
&ldquo;In his four posts on X today, Akash Anand publicly acknowledged his mistakes, expressed full respect and honor towards senior members, and pledged not to be influenced by his father-in-law's words, instead dedicating his life to the BSP party and the movement. In view of this, the decision has been made to give him another chance,&rdquo; Mayawati said in a post on X.
&ldquo;As for me, I am currently in good health, and as long as I remain fully healthy, like the respected Shri Kanshi Ram Ji, I will continue to work with full dedication and sincerity for the party and the movement. In such a situation, the question of appointing a successor does not arise. I am firm on my decision and will remain so,&rdquo; she wrote in Hindi.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/8-killed-in-explosion-at-cracker-factory-in-andhra-pradesh-major-recent-accidents-in-fireworks-units-8957918">8 killed in explosion at cracker factory in Andhra Pradesh. PM condoles deaths, announces ex-gratia</a>
Mayawati claimed that Akash had been continuously contacting people to apologise for his mistakes after he was expelled from the party in March. She added, &ldquo;And today he has publicly accepted his mistakes and has expressed his resolve not to follow his father-in-law's advice anymore.&rdquo;
Mayawati also claimed that the Akash had been consistently reaching out to people and seeking forgiveness following his expulsion in March.
&ldquo;Following his expulsion from the party, Akash had been consistently reaching out to people, seeking forgiveness for all his mistakes and assuring that he would not repeat them. Today, he has publicly acknowledged his mistakes and taken a pledge not to be influenced by his father-in-law going forward,&rdquo; Mayawati said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yusuf-pathan-faces-severe-backlash-over-insta-post-amid-murshidabad-violence-this-is-tmc-8956978">Yusuf Pathan faces severe backlash over Insta post amid Murshidabad violence; 'This is TMC'</a>
&ldquo;However, the mistakes of Akash&rsquo;s father-in-law, Shri Ashok Siddharth, are unpardonable. His involvement in factionalism and other extremely anti-party activities, as well as his role in derailing Akash&rsquo;s political career, leaves no room for forgiveness or any possibility of being taken back into the party,&rdquo; she added.
Mayawati accepted Akash's apology just hours after he pleaded before party supremo and his aunt Mayawati to take him back into the party.
<h2>Akash Anand&rsquo;s apology</h2>
Hours earlier, Akash Anand publicly apologised in an X post saying that Mayawati is his only political guru. He also said that he will not let any relatives, especially his in-laws, become an obstacle.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/they-want-to-keep-entire-country-illiterate-aap-supremo-kejriwal-accuses-bjp-of-ruining-education-8956750">'They want to keep entire country illiterate'; AAP supremo Kejriwal accuses BJP of 'ruining' education</a>
&ldquo;I consider the national president of BSP, four-time chief minister of UP and many-time Member of Parliament of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, respected sister Ms. Mayawati, as my only political guru and ideal. Today, I take this pledge that for the benefit of the Bahujan Samaj Party, I will not let my relations, and especially my in-laws, become an obstacle,&rdquo; Anand said.
&ldquo;Not only this, I also apologize for my tweet made a few days ago, due to which respected sister has expelled me from the party. And from now on, I will ensure that I will not take any advice from any relative or advisor for any of my political decisions.&rdquo;
He added, &ldquo;I appeal to respected sister to forgive all my mistakes and give me a chance to work in the party again, for this I will always be grateful to her. Also, I will not make any such mistake in future which will hurt the self-respect and self-esteem of the party and respected sister.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tahawwur-rana-requests-quran-pen-and-paper-in-nia-custody-officials-deny-any-special-treatment-8956301">Tahawwur Rana demands three things while in NIA custody; officials deny any 'special treatment'</a>
Last month, Mayawati had sacked her nephew and appointed his father, Anand Kumar, and Rajya Sabha MP Ramji Gautam as national coordinators to fill his spot. She also said that she would not name a successor in her lifetime.
Mayawati had earlier sacked Akash Anand for &ldquo;lack of maturity&rdquo; last year in May. But he was reinstated in the two roles in June.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Hours earlier, Akash Anand publicly apologised in an X post saying that Mayawati is his only political guru. He also said that he will not let any relatives, especially his in-laws, become an obstacle.

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati granted “one more chance” to nephew Akash Anand and re-inducted him into the party after his public apology for being under the “influence” of his father-in-law. “In his four posts on X today, Akash Anand publicly acknowledged his mistakes, expressed full respect and honor towards senior members, and pledged not to be influenced by his father-in-law's words, instead dedicating his life to the BSP party and the movement. In view of this, the decision has been made to give him another chance,” Mayawati said in a post on X. “As for me, I am currently in good health, and as long as I remain fully healthy, like the respected Shri Kanshi Ram Ji, I will continue to work with full dedication and sincerity for the party and the movement. In such a situation, the question of appointing a successor does not arise. I am firm on my decision and will remain so,” she wrote in Hindi. Also read | 8 killed in explosion at cracker factory in Andhra Pradesh. PM condoles deaths, announces ex-gratia Mayawati claimed that Akash had been continuously contacting people to apologise for his mistakes after he was expelled from the party in March. She added, “And today he has publicly accepted his mistakes and has expressed his resolve not to follow his father-in-law's advice anymore.” Mayawati also claimed that the Akash had been consistently reaching out to people and seeking forgiveness following his expulsion in March. “Following his expulsion from the party, Akash had been consistently reaching out to people, seeking forgiveness for all his mistakes and assuring that he would not repeat them. Today, he has publicly acknowledged his mistakes and taken a pledge not to be influenced by his father-in-law going forward,” Mayawati said. Also read | Yusuf Pathan faces severe backlash over Insta post amid Murshidabad violence; 'This is TMC' “However, the mistakes of Akash’s father-in-law, Shri Ashok Siddharth, are unpardonable. His involvement in factionalism and other extremely anti-party activities, as well as his role in derailing Akash’s political career, leaves no room for forgiveness or any possibility of being taken back into the party,” she added. Mayawati accepted Akash's apology just hours after he pleaded before party supremo and his aunt Mayawati to take him back into the party. Akash Anand’s apology Hours earlier, Akash Anand publicly apologised in an X post saying that Mayawati is his only political guru. He also said that he will not let any relatives, especially his in-laws, become an obstacle. Also read | 'They want to keep entire country illiterate'; AAP supremo Kejriwal accuses BJP of 'ruining' education “I consider the national president of BSP, four-time chief minister of UP and many-time Member of Parliament of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, respected sister Ms. Mayawati, as my only political guru and ideal. Today, I take this pledge that for the benefit of the Bahujan Samaj Party, I will not let my relations, and especially my in-laws, become an obstacle,” Anand said. “Not only this, I also apologize for my tweet made a few days ago, due to which respected sister has expelled me from the party. And from now on, I will ensure that I will not take any advice from any relative or advisor for any of my political decisions.” He added, “I appeal to respected sister to forgive all my mistakes and give me a chance to work in the party again, for this I will always be grateful to her. Also, I will not make any such mistake in future which will hurt the self-respect and self-esteem of the party and respected sister.” Also read | Tahawwur Rana demands three things while in NIA custody; officials deny any 'special treatment' Last month, Mayawati had sacked her nephew and appointed his father, Anand Kumar, and Rajya Sabha MP Ramji Gautam as national coordinators to fill his spot. She also said that she would not name a successor in her lifetime. Mayawati had earlier sacked Akash Anand for “lack of maturity” last year in May. But he was reinstated in the two roles in June. (With inputs from agencies)

Mayawati gives ‘one more chance’ to nephew Akash Anand after public apology, re-inducts him in BSP

India has entered the elite league of nations developing directed energy weapons with the successful unveiling of a 30-kilowatt laser-based system. Developed by the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) under DRDO, the weapon can hit aerial targets at a range of 5 kilometers. This high-powered laser system marks a major leap in India’s defense capabilities.

India unveils indigenous 30-kilowatt laser weapon with 5 km range

In a major boost to the country's defence technology upgradation, India successfully demonstrated its capability to destroy fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system.&nbsp;
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) officials tested the 30-kilowatt laser-based directed-energy weapon (DEW) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, successfully. With this technology, India joins the elite list of countries like the United States, China and Russia having advanced laser weapon capabilities. In the trials, the indigenously designed and developed Mk-II(A) DEW system successfully engaged fixed-wing drones at long range, thwarted a multiple drone attack, and destroyed enemy surveillance sensors and antennae.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9fv412a-9vm1u0tb-uuip5yha">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh: For the first time, India has showcased its capability to shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system. India has joined list of selected countries, including the US, China, and Russia,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/fjGHmqH8N4">pic.twitter.com/fjGHmqH8N4</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911368349537181977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
DRDO developed this directed-energy weapon (DEW), which is now ready for production and deployment across various military platforms.&nbsp; DRDO chairman Dr Samir V Kamat said, &ldquo;This is just the beginning of the journey. The synergy that this lab has achieved with other DRDO labs, industry and academia, I am sure we will reach our destination soon.&rdquo; 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9fv4jqn-u204y8lc-wncb8wsi">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh: DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat says, "...This is just the beginning of the journey. The synergy that this lab has achieved with other DRDO labs, industry and academia, I am sure we will reach our destination soon... We are also working on other&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/toO7xuAo9K">https://t.co/toO7xuAo9K</a> <a href="https://t.co/VjC9tS6WGF">pic.twitter.com/VjC9tS6WGF</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911371306626326824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
 &ldquo;We are also working on other high energy systems like high energy microwaves, electromagnetic pulse. So we are working on a number of technologies that will give us Star Wars capability. What you saw today was one of the components of Star Wars technologies,&rdquo; he added. &ldquo;As far as I know, it is the United States, Russia and China that have demonstrated this capability. Israel is also working on similar capabilities, I would say we are the fourth or fifth country in the world to demonstrate this system,&rdquo; Kamat said. Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-seeking-to-deploy-nuclear-weapons-in-space-warns-nato-chief-8957098">Russia seeking to deploy nuclear weapons in space, warns NATO chief</a> The 30-kilowatt laser weapon system can destroy aerial threats like drones and helicopters in a range of 5 kilometers. It features advanced electronic warfare capabilities, including jamming communication and satellite signals. The system is equipped with a 360-degree Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor for precise targeting and can be rapidly deployed via air, rail, road, or sea.&nbsp;
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/post/8955829" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indian pharma warehouse in Ukraine hit by Russian missile: Ukrainian embassy</a> Dr BK Das, Director General (Electronics &amp; Communication System) DRDO, said: &ldquo;For the first time, we are showing a technology in use and its devastation. This shows how far we are going in our technology maturity... What you saw is a completely indigenous product of many DRDO laboratories working in synergy with startups, academic institutions and industries. We are confident that we are going to reach high power very soon... We are planning to deploy similar systems with slight modifications on ships to prove the capability.&rdquo; Dr Jagannath Nayak, director of the Centre for High Energy System, and Sciences (CHESS), DRDO, said, &ldquo;Whatever we have achieved today is a great success. This is one of the new and emerging weapon systems.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/now-a-simple-blood-test-could-detect-parkinsons-disease-long-before-symptoms-emerge-8957415" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Now a simple blood test could detect Parkinson&rsquo;s disease long before symptoms emerge</a>
DRDO is also developing more powerful systems with an operational range of 20 kilometres to target high-speed aerial threats like missiles and unmanned aerial systems.&nbsp;
The increased use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) worldwide has created the demand for advanced anti-drone technologies.
(With inputs from agencies)
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India News: In the trials, the indigenously designed and developed Mk-II(A) DEW system successfully engaged fixed-wing drones at long range, thwarted a multiple drone attack, and destroyed enemy surveillance sensors and antennae.

In a major boost to the country's defence technology upgradation, India successfully demonstrated its capability to destroy fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) officials tested the 30-kilowatt laser-based directed-energy weapon (DEW) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, successfully. With this technology, India joins the elite list of countries like the United States, China and Russia having advanced laser weapon capabilities. In the trials, the indigenously designed and developed Mk-II(A) DEW system successfully engaged fixed-wing drones at long range, thwarted a multiple drone attack, and destroyed enemy surveillance sensors and antennae. #WATCH | Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh: For the first time, India has showcased its capability to shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system. India has joined list of selected countries, including the US, China, and Russia,… pic.twitter.com/fjGHmqH8N4 — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2025 DRDO developed this directed-energy weapon (DEW), which is now ready for production and deployment across various military platforms. DRDO chairman Dr Samir V Kamat said, “This is just the beginning of the journey. The synergy that this lab has achieved with other DRDO labs, industry and academia, I am sure we will reach our destination soon.” #WATCH | Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh: DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat says, "...This is just the beginning of the journey. The synergy that this lab has achieved with other DRDO labs, industry and academia, I am sure we will reach our destination soon... We are also working on other… https://t.co/toO7xuAo9K pic.twitter.com/VjC9tS6WGF — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2025 “We are also working on other high energy systems like high energy microwaves, electromagnetic pulse. So we are working on a number of technologies that will give us Star Wars capability. What you saw today was one of the components of Star Wars technologies,” he added. “As far as I know, it is the United States, Russia and China that have demonstrated this capability. Israel is also working on similar capabilities, I would say we are the fourth or fifth country in the world to demonstrate this system,” Kamat said. Also read | Russia seeking to deploy nuclear weapons in space, warns NATO chief The 30-kilowatt laser weapon system can destroy aerial threats like drones and helicopters in a range of 5 kilometers. It features advanced electronic warfare capabilities, including jamming communication and satellite signals. The system is equipped with a 360-degree Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor for precise targeting and can be rapidly deployed via air, rail, road, or sea. Also Read | Indian pharma warehouse in Ukraine hit by Russian missile: Ukrainian embassy Dr BK Das, Director General (Electronics & Communication System) DRDO, said: “For the first time, we are showing a technology in use and its devastation. This shows how far we are going in our technology maturity... What you saw is a completely indigenous product of many DRDO laboratories working in synergy with startups, academic institutions and industries. We are confident that we are going to reach high power very soon... We are planning to deploy similar systems with slight modifications on ships to prove the capability.” Dr Jagannath Nayak, director of the Centre for High Energy System, and Sciences (CHESS), DRDO, said, “Whatever we have achieved today is a great success. This is one of the new and emerging weapon systems.” Also Read | Now a simple blood test could detect Parkinson’s disease long before symptoms emerge DRDO is also developing more powerful systems with an operational range of 20 kilometres to target high-speed aerial threats like missiles and unmanned aerial systems. The increased use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) worldwide has created the demand for advanced anti-drone technologies. (With inputs from agencies)

India develops ‘Star Wars’-style laser weapon to destroy drones, missiles, joins elite list | WATCH

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