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Kiren Rijiju slams UPA over waqf claims, defends amendments as property governance

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju launched a sharp attack on the Congress-led UPA government during the Lok Sabha debate on the Waqf Amendment Bill, accusing it of controversial waqf property decisions and defending the bill as essential for governance reform.

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Kiren Rijiju speaks on Waqf Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha

Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju launched a scathing attack on the Congress-led UPA government during the Lok Sabha debate on the Waqf Amendment Bill, alleging that the previous regime had denotified properties, including the Parliament building, in favour of the Delhi Waqf Board.

Rijiju claimed that “123 major buildings” were handed over to the Waqf Board during the UPA’s tenure and said, “If Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government did not come to power… even the building we are sitting in could have been claimed as Waqf property.”

Rijiju calls bill a property management reform

The minister insisted that the Waqf Amendment Bill does not interfere with religious aspects but focuses solely on governance and supervision of waqf properties. He stated that the amendments aim to resolve property management concerns and do not change the administration of mosques.

He further said that the government had removed a clause in the existing law that allowed any land to be declared waqf property, calling it a “draconian provision”. Rijiju accused the opposition of spreading misinformation and politicising the bill, adding, “Appeasement does not lead to votes.”

Proposed changes aim for inclusivity

Highlighting the bill’s key proposals, Rijiju said it aims to make waqf boards more inclusive and secular. The new provisions include mandating two non-Muslim members and at least two women in every state waqf board and the Central Waqf Council.

Rijiju also questioned the current lack of female representation and said the amendments would ensure gender inclusion.

Opposition protests over committee changes

The debate saw resistance from opposition members including NK Ramachandran and KC Venugopal, who criticised the changes introduced by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). They argued that the JPC was not authorised by the House to make such amendments.

Speaker Om Birla, however, maintained that equal time was given for debate. Home Minister Amit Shah also intervened, stating that the committee only offered suggestions which were later cleared by the Union Cabinet, countering allegations of unilateral decisions.

Shah further took a dig at the Congress, asserting that the BJP-led committees were not “rubber stamp” panels, unlike during the Congress rule.

Timeline and controversy around the bill

Originally tabled in August last year, the Waqf Amendment Bill was met with sharp protests. It was referred to a JPC, which submitted its report in February. The committee’s review process saw frequent disruptions and even an instance of physical altercation.

In total, 66 changes were proposed, with all 44 from the opposition rejected and 14 of 23 suggested by BJP allies approved. A dispute also erupted over the removal of annexures containing opposition dissent notes, later reinstated after discussion.

Among the bill’s key suggestions were the inclusion of non-Muslims, women, and notable public figures on waqf boards, and a clause to limit certain donations to Muslim individuals practicing the faith for at least five years.

Bollywood news

FIR filed against Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda for hurting sentiments of Christians in Jaat

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.

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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.

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India News

Seelampur murder: AAP slams BJP over law & order situation in Delhi

While reassuring the public that the assailants will be apprehended and face severe repercussions, Tiwari also called for calm, urging that police operations not be obstructed.

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The tragic stabbing of a 17-year-old boy in the Seelampur area of northeast Delhi has ignited a heated exchange between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Opposition Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday, April 18. Both parties are pointing fingers at each other regarding the city’s declining law and order situation. The incident occurred on Thursday, April 17, in the J-Block locality of New Seelampur.

Atishi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly and a senior AAP leader, accused the BJP-led Central Government and the Delhi Police of failing to protect citizens. “The murder of this 17-year-old in Seelampur highlights the worsening law and order in Delhi,” she stated in a post on X.

She questioned, “What is the Delhi Police doing? What is Home Minister Amit Shah’s response? What is the double-engine government up to?” referencing the BJP leadership in both the central government and the local police force. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta promised that the victim’s family would receive justice.

“I have spoken with the Commissioner of Police, and all efforts are being made. I hope the perpetrators will be caught soon, and we will ensure justice for the victim’s family,” she remarked.

In response to the Opposition’s criticism, BJP MP Manoj Tiwari, representing North East Delhi, condemned the incident and stated that law enforcement is treating the matter with utmost seriousness.

“The murder of Kunal, a 17-year-old Dalit youth in Seelampur, is deeply concerning, and the residents’ anger is understandable,” he posted on X. “I’ve been in touch with senior police officials since last night. Many suspects have been identified, and a thorough investigation is currently underway,” he added.

While reassuring the public that the assailants will be apprehended and face severe repercussions, Tiwari also called for calm, urging that police operations not be obstructed.

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Bollywood news

KL Rahul, Athiya Shetty share first pic of their baby, name her Evaarah

The couple, celebrating Rahul’s birthday, introduced their baby girl named Evaarah, a name that encapsulates their joy and love.

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KL Rahul, Athiya Shetty share first pic of their baby, name her Evaarah

KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty have shared the enchanting news of their daughter’s arrival, unveiling her name to the world for the very first time. The couple, celebrating Rahul’s birthday, introduced their baby girl named Evaarah, a name that encapsulates their joy and love.

Introducing Evaarah: A special moment for the new family

In a touching moment filled with pride and emotion, actor Athiya Shetty and cricketer KL Rahul shared the first picture of their little one. The heartfelt reveal quickly captured the affection of fans and followers, who flooded the couple with warm wishes and congratulations. Athiya, in her post, expressed her profound love, writing: “Our baby girl, our everything. 🪷 Evaarah/ इवारा ~ Gift of God.”

Earlier in March, Athiya had joyfully announced her pregnancy with a charming Instagram illustration of two swans accompanied by the message, “Blessed with a baby girl.”

The journey to parenthood

The couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony on January 23, 2023, at Suniel Shetty’s picturesque farmhouse in Khandala. A few months later, in November 2024, they marked another milestone in their lives with an adorable announcement about their impending parenthood, sharing a sweet post that read, “Our beautiful blessing is coming soon. 2025,” along with emojis of tiny feet.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DIlMd2UTkhP/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

Suniel Shetty’s heartfelt reflection as a grandfather

Suniel Shetty, Athiya’s father, expressed his joy as a newly minted grandfather in a heartfelt LinkedIn post. He articulated the paradox of life, emphasising how true contentment often lies in the simplest moments. He reflected on his journey, stating, “It’s funny how life works. You spend years chasing achievements, but real happiness stems from the simplest of things.”

He shared the indescribable joy of holding his granddaughter, acknowledging how those cherished moments eclipse all worldly pursuits. His reflections on family and legacy poignantly captured the essence of life’s most rewarding experiences.

Warm wishes from the celebrities’ circle

The joyous news has evoked an outpouring of affection from fellow celebrities and friends. Anushka Sharma, a close friend of Athiya, celebrated the occasion with a heart emoji on her post, while Sobhita Dhulipala remarked, “This is everything.” Samantha Ruth Prabhu also joined in, leaving a flurry of heart emojis to shower love on the precious new addition to the Shetty-Rahul family.

As KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty embark on this beautiful journey of parenthood, they are surrounded by love and support from their family, friends, and countless admirers.

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