The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has dismissed rampant rumours regarding the discontinuation of the FASTag system effective May 1, 2025. In an official statement released on Friday, the ministry reiterated that it has no intention of phasing out FASTag or replacing it with a satellite-based tolling system in the immediate future.

Authorities cautioned the public against believing misleading reports and viral messages that suggest FASTag will be eliminated, emphasising that the system remains active and mandatory for toll payments across the nation.

While new technological approaches are under consideration, MoRTH clarified that the ongoing pilot tests featuring Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems at selected toll plazas are meant to enhance, not replace, FASTag functionalities.

Understanding the hybrid tolling model

The proposed hybrid model seeks to combine the existing Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)-based FASTag with ANPR technology. This innovative approach aims to facilitate barrier-less toll collection; sophisticated high-resolution cameras will capture vehicle number plates and link them with FASTag accounts for a more efficient toll payment process.

The ministry is currently assessing the hybrid system’s potential to:

• Decrease congestion at toll plazas
• Accelerate vehicle flow
• Provide motorists with a smoother, uninterrupted tolling experience

However, MoRTH has confirmed that the hybrid model is still in the pilot phase and no final decision regarding its nationwide implementation has been established.

Although FASTag will not be replaced, the ministry stressed the importance of compliance under the hybrid system. Vehicle owners who neglect toll payment procedures may receive electronic notices, face suspension of their FASTag accounts, or incur penalties as per the VAHAN vehicle registration database.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways strongly urged motorists to disregard false information regarding the discontinuation of FASTag. Official updates on any changes to the tolling system will be communicated through trusted channels. The public is encouraged to stay informed by visiting the official websites at www.nhai.gov.in and morth.nic.in.

Fact Check: Claim: A satellite-based tolling system will replace FASTag starting May 1, 2025. Fact: This claim has been labelled false, as MoRTH has confirmed that FASTag will remain in use beyond the specified date.

Dilip Ghosh, a prominent figure in West Bengal’s BJP, tied the knot with Rinku Majumdar, a fellow party member, in a private ceremony on Friday evening in New Town.

The 60-year-old Ghosh, who has been acquainted with Majumdar since 2021, shared that the marriage fulfils his late mother’s wish. He emphasised that his personal life will not affect his commitment to politics, stating, “I will remain as dedicated to my political responsibilities as ever.”

Ghosh, a long-time member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) since his youth, joined the BJP in 2015. As the former state president of the Bengal BJP, he played a pivotal role in elevating the party to the primary opposition force in West Bengal, overtaking the CPI(M).

Known for his candid and humorous remarks, Ghosh previously represented Kharagpur as a Member of Parliament and is expected to be a key player in the state’s upcoming 2026 assembly elections.

The wedding was an intimate affair, attended by close family members. Senior BJP leaders, including state president Sukanta Majumdar, visited Ghosh’s New Town residence earlier in the day to extend their congratulations.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee conveyed her heartfelt congratulations to Ghosh and his bride, Rinku Majumdar, on their marriage. According to reports, Banerjee sent a floral bouquet along with a warm message to Ghosh’s home in New Town, Kolkata, with the delivery facilitated by local police.

Several prominent Trinamool Congress members, including Kunal Ghosh, Debangshu Bhattacharya, and Kalyan Banerjee, also joined in offering their best wishes to the couple, reports said.

Reports indicate that the marriage proposal originated from Majumdar’s side. A party insider revealed that the decision was finalised earlier this month during an IPL match both attended, sparking their mutual agreement to tie the knot.

Who is Rinku Majumdar?

Rinku Majumdar, who has been active in the BJP since 2013, has held significant roles in the party’s Mahila Morcha (women’s wing), OBC front, and handloom cell. This is her second marriage, and she has a son employed at an IT company in Kolkata’s Salt Lake area. Speculation about their relationship grew after they were seen together at Eden Gardens on April 3, watching an IPL match.

Reflecting on their connection, Rinku shared with a news outlet, “I’ve worked with the BJP at the grassroots level since 2013. My first conversation with Dilip happened just before the 2021 elections at Eco Park—it was very brief. We spoke more during this year’s Lok Sabha elections, but it was always professional.”

She added, “In September, when I was considering settling down, I proposed to him. I wanted someone from New Town who would respect my political career. Dilip stood out as an honest, principled, and strong individual—qualities I admire. I thought, why not him?”

An FIR has been filed against actors Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda, and three others following a complaint that a scene in the film ‘Jaat’ has “hurt the sentiments” of the Christian community, police reported on Friday (April 18, 2025).

According to the complaint submitted by a leader of the Christian community, the film, which premiered on April 10, features scenes that allegedly disrespect Jesus Christ and Christian religious practices.

Viklav Gold, the complainant, has also pointed out the controversial timing of the film’s release, coinciding with Good Friday, observed on April 18 of this year.

The FIR, lodged on Wednesday evening at the Jalandhar Cantt police station by Sanjeev Kumar, the station house officer, names actors Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda, and Vineet Kumar, as well as director Gopichand and producer Naveen.

“The FIR was filed under Section 299 of the IPC, which pertains to deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings by insulting a religion or its beliefs,” the SHO stated.

The creators of “Jaat” have exciting news: a sequel to the popular action drama has been officially announced! The Bollywood film, featuring Sunny Deol, debuted in theatres on April 10, 2025.

Directed by the talented Gopichand Malineni, “Jaat” is produced by Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory. The production team took to social media to tease the sequel, stating, “This time, the mass spectacle will be even bigger, bolder, and wilder.”

“Jaat” unfolds the story of a village in Andhra Pradesh beset by injustice and brutality, longing for a hero. Enter Jaat, an outsider who learns of the village’s plight and resolves to confront the corrupt system.

The film also boasts an impressive cast, including Randeep Hooda, Vineet Kumar Singh, Regina Cassandra, and Saiyami Kher in key roles. In its review, The Hindu commented, “The violence is overt, with severed heads featured prominently, and it exploits crimes against the vulnerable to provoke the audience. If you’re willing to set aside your discerning taste, this mass spectacle is yours to enjoy.”

At the box office, “Jaat” earned an impressive ₹20 crore within its first two days in India and was approaching ₹60 crore by the end of its first week. Meanwhile, Sunny Deol is currently busy filming “Border 2,” the follow-up to the iconic 1997 war drama, as well as “Lahore 1947,” directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and produced by Aamir Khan, featuring Preity Zinta.