jistdesk

Akansha Goyal

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<p>US President Joe Biden's Reelection Campaign Faces Backlash for Joining TikTok</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>US President Joe Biden's reelection campaign has stirred controversy by joining TikTok, a decision that has reignited concerns over national security. The campaign, targeting younger voters, launched its TikTok account during the Super Bowl, signalling a strategic move to tap into the platform's extensive user base ahead of the upcoming presidential election in November.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, the decision has come under scrutiny from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, who have raised alarms about the popular social media app's ties to its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. Senator Mark Warner, chair of the US Senate Intelligence Committee, voiced reservations about the move, stressing the importance of caution given ongoing national security implications.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>"I think that we still need to find a way to follow India, which has prohibited TikTok," remarked Warner, echoing concerns raised by several US lawmakers who have advocated for banning TikTok over fears of potential access by the Chinese government to user data or influence over content on the platform.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>While the Biden administration has maintained its stance on TikTok, White House spokesperson John Kirby has reiterated existing policies regarding the use of TikTok on government devices. Despite assurances from the campaign about implementing advanced safety measures, the decision to embrace TikTok comes amid an ongoing security review of the app by US authorities.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>TikTok has consistently refuted allegations of sharing US user data with the Chinese government and has implemented stringent measures to safeguard user privacy. However, the company's response to the latest developments remains unclear as it did not immediately respond to requests for comment.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>In response to inquiries, the Biden campaign emphasized its commitment to engaging voters across various social media platforms, including Meta's Instagram and Truth Social, the latter being founded by former President Donald Trump. The campaign reassured that its presence on TikTok would not interfere with the ongoing security review of the app.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) had previously called on TikTok's Chinese owners to divest their shares to address national security concerns. However, the Biden administration has yet to take decisive action on this matter, despite mounting pressure from lawmakers.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>As the CFIUS review continues, the White House has endorsed legislation proposed by Senator Warner and others to provide the administration with new tools to address threats posed by foreign-owned apps. Meanwhile, TikTok's user base in the US continues to grow, with recent figures indicating a significant increase in American users.</p>
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India

Post

Biden Campaign's TikTok Involvement Sparks National Security Concerns

<p>Democratic Progressive Azad Party President Ghulam Nabi Azad addressed a public meeting in Kalakote, Rajouri, underscoring his contributions to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. He pledged to provide free electricity and ration to those in need if his party secures power.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Azad highlighted his efforts in Rajouri District, including establishing a medical college and initiating infrastructure projects like roads, hospitals, and schools. Urging public support, he appealed to voters to recognize his past governance's commitment to development.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>He expressed ambition for greater achievements, emphasizing job creation, road connectivity, healthcare access, and bridging remote areas. Azad reaffirmed his commitment to combating poverty and ensuring essential services.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>"If elected, we will ensure free electricity and ration for the needy," Azad promised, also advocating for the revival of the Roshni initiative, acknowledging its benefits while addressing potential misuse.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Regarding land eviction orders, he condemned actions harming the poor and vowed to safeguard their rights. Azad stressed the importance of Hindu-Muslim cooperation and urged support for leaders advocating universal development.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>He rejected divisive politics based on religion or caste, pledging to work impartially for all citizens' progress. With elections nearing, political parties vie for support, with Azad expected to impact the Congress vote share in Rajouri and Poonch.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, the BJP aims to secure all five Lok Sabha seats in the Union Territory, including those held in Jammu.</p>

Ghulam Azad Pledges Free Electricity & Ration if Elected in J&K

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<p>UAE Ambassador to India: PM Modi's Visit "Very Important" for Bilateral Ties</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Abdulnasser Alshaali, the UAE's ambassador to India, emphasized the significance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's forthcoming visit to the UAE, calling it a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship between the two nations. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to embark on a two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates, commencing Tuesday, during which he will engage in extensive discussions with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and inaugurate Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Alshaali remarked, "This visit is very important. It is very significant in this relationship between India and the UAE." He expressed gratitude for Modi's attendance at the World Government Summit and his participation in the inauguration of the BAPS Mandir. Alshaali anticipated that this visit would elevate the relationship to new heights.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Highlighting the inauguration of the BAPS Mandir as a momentous occasion, Alshaali underscored its symbolic significance in promoting values of coexistence, acceptance, and tolerance. He emphasized the temple's role in further strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The BAPS Hindu Mandir, situated in Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, spans approximately 27 acres and has been under construction since 2019. The UAE government generously donated the land for the temple, which will be the largest Hindu temple in the Gulf region.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Addressing economic cooperation between the UAE and India, Alshaali noted its exponential growth over recent years and expressed confidence in its continued expansion. He highlighted the strategic partnership between the two countries across various domains, including multilateral engagements.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>During Modi's visit, discussions will centre on deepening and strengthening the strategic partnership, as well as exchanging perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Modi will also meet with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Defence Minister of the UAE.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Additionally, Modi will address the Indian community in the UAE at an event in Zayed Sports City. The bilateral trade between India and the UAE reached approximately USD 85 billion in 2022-23, making them significant trading partners. Moreover, the UAE ranks among the top four investors in India in terms of foreign direct investment.</p>
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UAE Ambassador: PM Modi's Visit to UAE Will Elevate Bilateral Relationship

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<p>US Prepared to Collaborate with Incoming Pakistani Government, States State Department Official</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Amid ongoing speculation regarding potential political manoeuvring following the general elections in Pakistan and the delay in finalizing results for all National Assembly seats, a representative from the State Department asserted the United States' readiness to engage with any administration that assumes power in Pakistan.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Contrary to previous assertions, the Election Commission of Pakistan attributed the delay in result announcements to the suspension of internet and mobile services on February 8, the day of countrywide polling, acknowledging that this hindered the prompt declaration of outcomes. It clarified that this delay did not favour any particular political entity.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>During a routine press briefing, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller remarked, "I don't believe a new government has been established in Pakistan yet. Discussions are still ongoing regarding the formation of a government."</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Miller emphasized the United States' commitment to collaborating with the government elected by the Pakistani populace. The preliminary National Assembly results indicated that independent candidates supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party, led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, secured 101 seats, while the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), headed by another former Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, obtained 75 seats. The Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) won 54 and 17 seats, respectively.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>To establish a government, a party must secure at least 133 out of the 265 contested seats in the National Assembly.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Addressing allegations of electoral fraud, Miller reiterated the importance of thorough investigations into such claims, emphasizing the competitive nature of the elections and the need to respect the democratic process. He applauded the Pakistani populace, including election workers, observers, civil society members, and journalists, for their active participation in the electoral process.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>While expressing concerns over reported irregularities, Miller underscored the significance of upholding the rule of law, constitutional principles, and a free press. He condemned instances of political violence and limitations on internet and cell phone services, urging their investigation. Additionally, he stressed the necessity for Pakistan's legal system to thoroughly probe allegations of interference and fraud.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>According to Marvin Weinbaum, Director of Afghanistan and Pakistan Studies at the Middle East Institute think-tank, Pakistan is poised to witness the formation of a fragile and unsettled governing coalition, ill-equipped to address the country's pressing economic, social, and environmental challenges. Weinbaum warned of potential political strife, with opposition factions likely to challenge the government's legitimacy, potentially casting a shadow over Pakistan's democratic process ahead of the 2024 national elections.</p>
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US State Department Prepared to Collaborate with Any Pakistani Government

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the need for law enforcement agencies to transcend geographical borders when dealing with crimes and criminals. Addressing the Commonwealth Legal Education Association (CLEA) conference, Shah highlighted that crimes and criminals don't adhere to geographical constraints.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>He urged law enforcement agencies to consider borders as meeting points for resolving crimes rather than hindrances. Shah acknowledged the challenges of cross-border justice delivery, trade, commerce, and communication, emphasizing that for trade and crime, there are no borders.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Shah discussed the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Act, emphasizing that these new laws would modernize India's criminal justice system. The laws, replacing colonial-era codes, aim to make justice accessible, affordable, and accountable. Shah stressed the global nature of crime, connecting small cyber frauds to international terrorism.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;He highlighted the importance of strengthening law enforcement agencies to control crime, ensuring that uncontrolled crime doesn't hinder trade. Shah also called for increased use of technology in the justice system, stating that reliance on 19th-century laws is inadequate in the 21st century. He emphasized the adoption of artificial intelligence in legal processes for better understanding and resolution of cases.</p>

Amit Shah Encourages Security Agencies to Overcome Borders in Crime Prevention

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<p>Election Commission Bans Use of Children in Political Campaigns Ahead of General Elections</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Election Commission has issued a stern directive to political parties, urging them to refrain from involving children in any aspect of political campaigns leading up to the upcoming general elections. This prohibition encompasses activities such as posters, pamphlet distribution, slogan-raising, or any form of participation. The Election Commission emphasized a "zero tolerance" policy regarding the use of children in any capacity throughout the electoral process, whether by candidates or political parties.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Simultaneously, the Election Commission has issued guidelines to all election officials and poll-related entities, instructing them to prevent the engagement of children in any election-related tasks or activities. Any infringement of these provisions within their jurisdictions will result in severe disciplinary actions, the commission warned. The prohibition extends to any attempt to simulate a political campaign using children, including the use of poems, songs, spoken words, or displaying political party or candidate insignia.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>District election officers and returning officers have been tasked with ensuring strict adherence to relevant laws and regulations concerning child labor, bearing personal responsibility for enforcement.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, the mere presence of a child accompanied by their parent or guardian in the vicinity of a political leader who is not actively engaged in election campaign activities on behalf of the political party will not be considered a violation of the guidelines.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has consistently emphasized the pivotal role of political parties as key stakeholders of the Election Commission, urging them to actively uphold democratic values, particularly with the upcoming parliamentary elections.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>This advisory regarding children follows a previous advisory to political parties, urging them to maintain respectful discourse towards individuals with disabilities (PwDs). The Election Commission has also reminded parties and candidates of the relevant laws regarding child labour and has urged strict compliance.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The commission noted that in 2014, the Bombay High Court had underscored the importance of ensuring that political parties do not involve minor children in any election-related activities.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, the Election Commission has actively implemented directives aimed at streamlining various activities of political parties. These measures include the establishment of an online portal to facilitate transparent financial disclosures by political parties, enabling timely submission of statutory reports, and enhancing vigilance to prevent the misuse of statutory provisions. Additionally, the Election Commission has initiated efforts to identify and delist fraudulent Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs).</p>
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Election Commission Directs Political Parties to Refrain from Involving Children in Political Activities

<p>The Supreme Court Orders Transfer of Ballot Papers and Videography of Chandigarh Mayor Elections to High Court Registrar</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>On Monday, the Supreme Court directed the transfer of all ballot papers and associated video footage from the Chandigarh mayor elections to the registrar of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud expressed strong disapproval of the video evidence, describing it as a "mockery" and a "murder" of democracy.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The controversial election resulted in a BJP candidate being declared the winner, invalidating the votes of eight Congress-AAP alliance candidates. The CJI criticized the behaviour of the Presiding Officer, questioning why he appeared to be a "fugitive" in the video.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The bench, which included Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, heard a petition by AAP Councillor Kuldeep Kumar, the defeated mayoral candidate, challenging the Punjab and Haryana High Court's refusal to stay the immediate election.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Expressing concern over the apparent tampering of ballot papers by the returning officer, the Supreme Court issued a notice and emphasized the need to protect democracy.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Furthermore, the apex court ordered the postponement of the Chandigarh municipal corporation meeting scheduled for February 7.</p>

Supreme Court Expresses Concern Over Chandigarh Mayor Election, Calls it a Threat to Democracy

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<p>Ghulam Nabi Azad, Chairman of DPAP and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, rallied party members on Sunday, urging them to intensify their efforts to secure victory in all five Lok Sabha seats in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Azad stressed the need for thorough preparations, stating that the party must be prepared to win in every constituency as it is the only trustworthy choice for the people, unlike other parties that have failed to serve their interests.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>During his address to state and province-level office bearers, Azad emphasized the importance of a well-planned strategy, encompassing grassroots organization, constituency-level planning, and effective campaign management, to ensure success in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Throughout the meeting, Azad assessed the party's readiness at various levels and discussed strategies to address key regional issues. He reaffirmed his party's commitment to the progress, development, and welfare of the people, promising to address recent land eviction orders and socio-economic challenges.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Azad pledged to revoke the orders if his party came to power and promised to reintroduce the previously cancelled Roshni Scheme for the benefit of the poor and landless people in the state.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Highlighting the party's agenda over the past eighteen months, Azad emphasized their dedication to addressing critical issues such as special status, statehood, and socio-economic development. He underscored the party's commitment to transparency and honesty, stating that they are dedicated to truthfulness and integrity in their actions.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Prominent party figures attended the meeting, including RS Chib, Jugal Kishore Sharma, Vinod Mishra, Ch Haroon Khatana, Anita Thakur, Vinod Kaul, Arvinder Singh Mickey, Salman Nizami, Ch Gharu Ram, PR Manhas, Zahid Malik, Sujada Bashir, Subash Gupta, Ashok Sharma, Adv Maheshwar Singh, Arun Singh Raju, Riyaz Bashir Naz, Masood Choudhary, Imran Zaffar, Hira Lal Abrol, Sobat Ali, Gurmeet Kaur, Sunita Arora, and Prabha Salathia, among others.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>As preparations for the Lok Sabha elections gain momentum, Azad's call for a unified and concerted effort underscores the party's determination to secure victory and represent the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir at the national level.</p>
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Former J&K CM Azad Calls on Party to Aim for Victory in All Union Territory Lok Sabha Seats

<p>Manish Sisodia, a leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) who is currently incarcerated, has requested an expedited hearing of his curative petitions filed in the Supreme Court. These petitions challenge a 2023 court verdict that denied him bail in a corruption and money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy scam.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Sisodia, urged the bench consisting of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra to urgently hear the petitions, emphasizing that Sisodia has been in jail for a year.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Chief Justice responded, "I have already instructed for a listing of the petitions."</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>On December 14, 2023, the Supreme Court dismissed Sisodia's pleas seeking a review of its October 30 verdict, which had rejected his bail petitions in the corruption and money laundering cases related to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Supreme Court had denied him bail, citing allegations by the investigative agencies that "a few wholesale distributors made windfall gains" of Rs 338 crore, which were "tentatively supported" by evidence.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Sisodia was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on February 26, 2023, for his alleged involvement in the "scam."</p>
<p>The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Sisodia in a money laundering case linked to the CBI FIR on March 9, 2023, following his interrogation in Tihar Jail. Sisodia resigned from the Delhi cabinet on February 28, 2023.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Delhi government implemented the new excise policy on November 17, 2021, but it was scrapped at the end of September 2022 amid corruption allegations. According to the investigating agencies, the profit margin for wholesalers was increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The agencies alleged that the new policy led to cartelization and favoured ineligible candidates for liquor licenses for financial gain. However, the Delhi government and Sisodia have denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the new policy would have increased the city government's revenue.</p>

"Manish Sisodia Urges Urgent Hearing of Curative Petitions in Excise Policy Scam Case"

<p>Lal Krishna Advani, a pivotal figure in Indian politics, not only left a lasting impact on the political landscape of his era but also played a key role in steering it toward a decline of the once-dominant 'secular' ideology. He famously criticized it as "pseudo secular." The recent award of the Bharat Ratna to Advani, at the age of 96, follows a similar honor bestowed on former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, marking their joint leadership of the Jana Sangh and later the BJP for over five decades.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The announcement of the Bharat Ratna by Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes in the year of the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, symbolizing the triumphant closure of a deeply emotive issue. Advani's 'Ram Rath Yatra' in 1990 played a crucial role in thrusting the Ayodhya matter into popular consciousness, paving the way for the steady rise of the BJP through the decade.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Advani, admired as a political strategist and organization-builder, popularized terms like "pseudo secularism" and "appeasement politics" in the context of Hindutva politics. Under his leadership, the BJP wholeheartedly supported the Ramjanmabhoomi movement, adopting a resolution in 1989 in favor of building a temple at the disputed site.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>His influential role in the temple movement drew both support and criticism, but it contributed to the BJP's ascendancy. The demolition of the Babri mosque in Ayodhya in 1992, following the yatra, marked a turning point. Advani, often referred to as an "Hindu Hriday Samrat," emphasized probity in public life and resigned as an MP after being implicated in the infamous Hawala diary.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Despite his pivotal role, Advani faced challenges within the party, especially with the rise of Narendra Modi. His attempt to adopt a more moderate stance and praise for Pakistan's founder, M. A. Jinnah, during a 2005 visit to Karachi, triggered a backlash and damaged his Hindutva image.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Advani's stature within the BJP remained significant, and he was the party's prime ministerial candidate in the 2009 polls. However, his popularity waned, leading to the ascent of Narendra Modi as the party's national face in 2014. The recent Bharat Ratna for Advani acknowledges his seminal role in shaping both the BJP and the country's political landscape.</p>

Recognition of Advani's Key Role: Bharat Ratna Acknowledges His Contribution to Country's Politics and BJP's Ascendancy

Public Category

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<p>Enforcement Directorate Recovers Cash and Car During Search at Jharkhand CM's Residence</p>
<p>In a day-long search operation conducted on Monday at the New Delhi residence of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has recovered Rs 35 Lakh in cash, among other items.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>According to reliable sources, the agency discovered a substantial amount of official documents during the search, along with a luxurious BMW car. The BMW, valued at around a Crore, has raised suspicions of being a benami property.</p>
<p>Sources further revealed that the recovered cash and documents were found in an almirah within the room utilized by Hemant Soren during his visit to Delhi.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Among the official documents retrieved, there were correspondences between the ED and related files pertaining to the agency's request to the Jharkhand police to file an FIR against revenue officer Bhanu Pratap Prasad.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>It's worth noting that Bhanu Pratap was previously the subject of an ED raid in connection with investigations into the Indian Army Land scam, during which a significant number of documents were seized from his residence. He also plays a central role in another Ranchi land scam case, which has posed challenges for the Jharkhand CM.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Hemant Soren is currently facing imminent arrest in the land scam case and has been avoiding the ED's summons for questioning. However, following the raid on Monday, the CM's secretariat sent an unsigned email to the ED, in which the CM accused the agency of conducting a broad inquiry against him. Nevertheless, Hemant Soren stated that he would be available for questioning on January 31.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>While the CM's whereabouts remain unknown and surrounded by mystery, the discovery of cash and the BMW car may complicate matters for him. He will need to provide an explanation for the source of the substantial sum and clarify his connection to the BMW car parked on his residential premises.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The ED is currently investigating the true owner of the car, whether it belongs to an individual or a company. Furthermore, the agency is looking into potential links between the car and Hemant Soren's Kolkata-based friend, Amit Agarwal, who is currently in custody facing charges of money laundering and CBI cases.</p>
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ED Confiscates Rs. 35 Lakh, BMW, and Documents During Search at Elusive Jharkhand CM's Residence

<p>Following Chief Minister Hemant Soren's unexpected return to Ranchi after his sudden disappearance from Delhi, the ruling alliance is reportedly formulating a contingency plan ahead of Soren's scheduled questioning by the Enforcement Directorate on January 31.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>JMM and Congress leaders, who had maintained silence about the CM's whereabouts, were summoned for a meeting by party seniors upon Soren's return. The meeting, officially labeled as informal and attended by State legislators, gains significance as it included CM's wife Kalpana Soren. Sources suggest that this gathering was orchestrated to assess the legislators' sentiments regarding a potential change in leadership.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Insiders from the ruling coalition disclosed that the JMM-Congress-RJD alliance is gearing up for a showdown with the Centre. In the event of CM Hemant Soren's arrest or chargesheet by the ED, there is speculation that Kalpana Soren might emerge as the consensus candidate for the Chief Minister's position within the coalition.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Senior JMM officials expressed confidence in Kalpana Soren as a unanimous leader, citing her lack of entanglement in cases like other members of the Soren family. A senior JMM functionary mentioned that choosing Kalpana Ji would likely prevent dissent among legislators compared to elevating another leader from JMM or Congress.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>While the political landscape stirred with the resignation of three-time MLA Sarfaraz Ahmed on January 1, 2024, raising speculations about the vacant seat being reserved for Kalpana Soren, the issue subsided over time.&nbsp;With CM Hemant Soren's mysterious absence and subsequent return to Ranchi, political experts suggest that the party is preparing for the worst-case scenario. They anticipate potential action by the ED and the resultant leadership vacuum, prompting the need for a well-thought-out Plan B to avoid chaos within the coalition.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The ruling coalition MLAs are scheduled to convene for a legislature party meeting at the chief minister's residence at 7:30 PM on Tuesday. During this meeting, it is anticipated that a consensus will be reached on Plan B, addressing the potential challenges ahead.</p>

Soren's Comeback Prompts JMM's Plan B; Kalpana Soren Poised as Potential CM in Jharkhand

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<p>Former Team India cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, facing a defamation plea from ex-business partners Mihir Diwakar and Soumya Das, asserted before the Delhi High Court that the case against him was not maintainable. The court declined to issue any interim order against Dhoni, social media platforms, and media houses at this stage.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Diwakar and Das sought a permanent injunction and damages, alleging defamatory statements by Dhoni, social media, and media houses. Dhoni's counsel argued that the plaint was not maintainable, revealing that he had filed a case against the couple in a Ranchi court. The court instructed the plaintiffs to provide Dhoni's counsel with all documents within three days.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The plaintiffs' counsel emphasized the need for fair reporting by the media, claiming that his clients had been unfairly labeled as "thugs and thieves." Siddhant Kumar, representing a media house, argued against the maintainability of the plea, citing a previous judgment and questioning the court's territorial jurisdiction.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Justice Singh directed the plaintiffs' counsel to outline allegations against the defendants and scheduled further hearings for April 3. The high court had earlier notified Dhoni about the defamation plea. The plaintiffs alleged a press conference was held, where Dhoni made false allegations about them.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The plaintiffs sought restraint against damaging their reputation, referring to Dhoni's alleged false claims regarding illegal gains and a breach of a 2017 contract. Dhoni, in turn, filed a criminal case against Diwakar and Das, accusing them of duping him of around Rs 16 crore by not honoring a contract to establish cricket academies. The criminal case, filed in a Ranchi court, includes charges of criminal breach of trust and cheating under the Indian Penal Code.</p>
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MS Dhoni Challenges Defamation Plea by Former Business Partners in High Court

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<p>India's all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and batter KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test against England in Visakhapatnam, scheduled to begin on February 2. Jadeja sustained a hamstring injury during Sunday's play, while Rahul reported right quadriceps pain.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The BCCI stated in a release, "Mr Ravindra Jadeja and Mr KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second IDFC First Bank Test against England in Vizag, starting February 02, 2024. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring the progress of the duo."</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>In response, the Selection Committee has included Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan, left-arm spinner Sourabh Kumar, and all-rounder Washington Sundar in the squad for the second Test. India currently trails the five-match series 0-1 after losing the opening match by 28 runs.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>For the India A squad in the third and final multi-day game against England Lions in Ahmedabad, Saransh Jain has been named as Washington Sundar's replacement. Avesh Khan will continue traveling with his Ranji Trophy team, Madhya Pradesh, and will join the Test squad if required.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Revised India Squad for the 2nd Test vs England: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar.</p>
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Ghulam Azad Pledges Free Electricity & Ration if Elected in J&K

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jistdesk - India - February 13, 2024, 12:05 AM - 2 mins read