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A recent speech by renowned Tamil lyricist and poet Vairamuthu has triggered controversy after he commented on Lord Ram during a literary event in Tamil Nadu. His remarks have drawn sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused him of hurting Hindu sentiments.

The Controversial Remark

Speaking at a programme where he received an award named after medieval Tamil poet Kambar, who wrote the Tamil version of the Ramayana (the Kamba Ramayanam), Vairamuthu reflected on Lord Ram’s state of mind after being separated from Goddess Sita.

He stated that “After being separated from Sita, Ram lost his mind, not knowing what he was doing. Under IPC Section 84, an act committed by a person due to mental derangement or unsoundness of mind does not constitute an offence.”

Vairamuthu further added that while “Kamban may not have known the law, he understood society and the human mind. Ram is fully acquitted, forgiven – making Ram a human being, and Kamban divine.”

BJP’s Reaction

The remarks quickly drew a strong response from BJP leaders. CR Kesavan, a BJP leader, took to X (formerly Twitter) and condemned the poet’s comments.

He wrote: “Vairamuthu Ramasamy is a disgusting repeat offender when it comes to insulting sacred Hindu deities and grossly abusing Hindu Dharma. Now Vairamuthu, who ironically has ‘Rama’ in his name, has perversely misinterpreted the Kamba Ramayanam and called Lord Rama mentally unstable.”

Kesavan further criticized the poet, saying: “Vairamuthu went on to misinterpret Kamba Ramayanam, stating Lord Rama had lost his sanity so he can’t be incriminated as per IPC 84 (defence of legal insanity). Vairamuthu is a disgrace and he needs to immediately apologise to crores of devotees of Lord Rama and Hindu Dharma.”

Event in Presence of Tamil Nadu CM

The event where Vairamuthu made the remarks was attended by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, adding further political weight to the controversy.

Why the Issue Matters

In a significant overhaul of the Tamil Nadu Police, the state government has announced the transfer and posting of 18 officers, including several Indian Police Service (IPS) personnel, alongside the promotion of three officers to higher ranks. A key highlight of this reshuffle is the reinstatement of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) D. Magesh Kumar, whose suspension was recently lifted following the dismissal of sexual harassment allegations.

Reinstatement of DIG D. Magesh Kumar

D. Magesh Kumar, previously suspended in February 2025 over allegations of sexual and physical harassment while serving as Joint Commissioner of Police (North) in Greater Chennai Police, has been reinstated. The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) cleared him of the charges, leading to the revocation of his suspension in April 2025. Kumar, who was placed in the Vacancy Reserve at police headquarters during this period, has now been appointed as DIG of the Coastal Security Group, Chennai, replacing R. Jayanthi. Jayanthi has been reassigned as DIG, Technical Services, and Chennai.

Key Transfers and Postings

The reshuffle includes several high-profile transfers across various ranks:

M.R. Sibi Chakravarthi, previously DIG/Joint Commissioner of Police, South Zone, Greater Chennai Police, has been appointed as DIG and Chief Vigilance Officer at Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited, Chennai.

Pakerla Cephas Kalyan takes over Chakravarthi’s former role in the South Zone, moving from his position as DIG/Joint Commissioner of Police, West Zone, Greater Chennai Police.

Disha Mittal has been transferred from DIG, Villupuram Range, to DIG/Joint Commissioner of Police, West Zone, Greater Chennai Police.

E.S. Uma, DIG, has been reassigned from Salem Range to Villupuram Range.

At the Superintendent of Police (SP) level, notable changes include:

G. Nagajothi IPS, now posted as SP-I, Tamil Nadu Uniformed Services Recruitment Board (TNUSRB), Chennai.

Amanat Mann IPS, previously in the Vacancy Reserve, appointed as Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Social Justice and Human Rights, Chennai.

S.P. Lavanya IPS, reassigned as SP, State Crime Records Bureau, replacing G. Nagajothi.

Among Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs):

B. Geetha moves from Salem City to Greater Chennai Police Headquarters, while V. Geetha takes her place in Salem City, coming from Tirunelveli.

A. Velmurugan is now DCP, Central Crime Branch, Tambaram Commissionerate, replacing K. Prabakar, who has been reassigned as SP-III, Cyber Crime Wing, Chennai.

Promotions to Higher Ranks

Three officers have been promoted as part of this reshuffle:

Kelkar Subhramanya Balachandra has been elevated to DCP, South, Salem City.

Kambham Samuel Praveen Gowtham and V. Prasannakumar have been promoted to SP rank and posted as DCPs in Tiruppur and Tirunelveli, respectively.

Context and Implications

This reshuffle reflects the Tamil Nadu government’s efforts to streamline police administration and ensure effective leadership across key roles. The reinstatement of DIG D. Magesh Kumar, following the ICC’s clearance, marks a significant development, restoring him to a critical position in coastal security. The transfers and promotions aim to bolster operational efficiency across urban, rural, and specialized units such as cybercrime and technical services.

In a disturbing incident that has sparked outrage across social media, Hussain Ahmed Mazumdar, a resident of Assam, was slapped mid-flight by a fellow passenger while experiencing a panic attack on an IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Kolkata. Days after the incident, Mazumdar has returned home—but he is still physically and emotionally reeling from the trauma.

The Mid-Air Assault

Mazumdar, who was visibly distressed and receiving assistance from cabin crew, was suddenly slapped by a co-passenger in an unprovoked attack. A video of the shocking moment quickly went viral, with another flyer in the footage confronting the assailant. The accused simply responded, "I was having a problem."

“Since that moment, I’ve had brain fog. My entire body is in pain. I can’t walk properly,” Mazumdar said in an emotional statement from his home near Barpeta, Assam.

Missing for Days, Found via Social Media

Following the assault, Mazumdar never boarded his connecting flight to Silchar and went missing for several days. His phone was switched off after landing in Kolkata, further worrying his family. It was only through a photo shared on social media and the help of a fellow train passenger that the family was able to trace him.

“We found him through a man on the train who saw the viral video and helped us get in touch,” said his younger brother, Dilwar Mazumdar, who later picked him up from Barpeta station.

Airline Response Under Fire

While IndiGo has since placed the assailant on a no-fly list, the victim’s family has accused the airline of failing to offer basic humanitarian support.

“They should have helped him file a police complaint, ensured he was safe, and made arrangements for his onward travel. But they did nothing,” Dilwar said.

The family believes the airline only acted after the video went public, and are demanding stronger protocols to protect passengers in vulnerable situations.

The Bigger Picture: Mental Health and Passenger Safety

This incident shines a harsh light on the lack of awareness and empathy for mental health conditions—even in confined public spaces like flights. Panic attacks are medical emergencies, and assaulting someone in distress not only shows ignorance but endangers lives.

In a heartbreaking accident during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, five pilgrims — known as kanwariyas — lost their lives when their vehicle fell into a water-filled roadside pit in Bihar’s Bhagalpur district on Sunday night.

The incident occurred in Shahkund block while the pilgrims were en route to a shrine in neighbouring Banka district.

What Happened

According to Sub Divisional Magistrate (Sadar) Vikas Kumar, the accident took place during heavy rains when the vehicle, reportedly speeding, skidded off the road and plunged into a large waterlogged pit.

“The driver likely lost control due to the rain. The vehicle and its occupants were pulled out with the help of police and locals. Unfortunately, all five were declared brought dead at the hospital,” Kumar said.

The deceased included the driver and four local residents, all participating in the annual religious pilgrimage.

Officials Deny Electrocution Rumors

Soon after the incident, rumors began circulating on social media that the deaths may have been caused by electrocution, possibly due to contact with a high-tension wire. However, authorities have firmly denied these claims.

“There is no evidence of electrocution. The cause of death was the crash and drowning due to the vehicle falling into the pit,” clarified Vikas Kumar.

Public Anger and Road Blockade

The tragedy sparked outrage among locals. Angry residents blocked traffic, demanding accountability and better road safety. The blockade was eventually lifted after officials visited the site and assured swift action and compensation.

Government Response

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He also announced an ex-gratia payment to the next of kin of each victim, as per state policy.

“The government stands with the families in this time of sorrow. Proper compensation will be given, and any complaints by the family members will be investigated,” officials said.

A Grim Reminder

As the sixth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 approaches on August 5, political corridors in Delhi are abuzz with speculation: Is Jammu and Kashmir about to regain its statehood?

This sudden surge in chatter comes on the heels of back-to-back meetings between President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah — all on the same day.

A Series of High-Level Meetings

What has fueled the speculation?

PM Modi and Amit Shah met the President separately on the same day — an unusual coincidence in itself.

These meetings come just days before the symbolic date of August 5, when Jammu & Kashmir was stripped of its special status in 2019.

Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly met with several political leaders from J&K, as well as BJP’s local leadership from the region.

PM Modi is also expected to chair a key meeting of NDA MPs on Tuesday, further amplifying expectations of a major announcement.

Background: What Changed in 2019

On August 5, 2019, the Indian government revoked Article 370, ending Jammu and Kashmir's special constitutional status. The state was then bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh — sparking sharp political and public responses both domestically and internationally.

Since then, the region has been under Union Territory administration, though the Centre has repeatedly promised to restore full statehood at an appropriate time.

What’s Fueling the Speculation Now?

The timing of these political movements is no coincidence:

The Article 370 anniversary has always been politically charged.

Recent developments in grassroots-level democratic processes, such as local body elections in the region, suggest a return to normalcy.

The Centre has been signaling readiness to move toward restoring democratic structures in J&K.

Political engagement between the BJP’s top brass and J&K stakeholders has intensified.

A Calculated Political Move?

Analysts believe that restoring statehood — even partially or conditionally — could serve multiple goals for the government:

Domestically, it could help counter criticism that the region has been governed without representation.

Internationally, it may help project political normalization in the sensitive border region.

For the BJP, it may pave the way for assembly elections and bolster its image as a government delivering on its “commitments.”

No Official Confirmation Yet

As of now, there has been no official word from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Home Ministry, or Rashtrapati Bhavan about the content of these meetings. But the political buzz is unmistakable — and expectations are high.

What to Watch Next

All eyes are now on:

August 5, the anniversary of the Article 370 move

The upcoming NDA MPs meeting

Possible announcements from the Centre regarding Jammu and Kashmir's political future

Dharmasthala, Karnataka — In a chilling development on Day 6 of the ongoing investigation into the Dharmasthala mass burial case, suspected human remains have been unearthed at Spot No. 11, according to police sources.

This marks the second site where possible human remains have been discovered during the probe, following the earlier recovery of skeletal fragments at Spot 6 — believed to be male — last week.

A Growing Case of Hidden Horror

The mass burial case came to light after a former sanitation worker-turned-whistleblower alleged that he had been coerced into burying or cremating bodies of women and minors — many reportedly showing signs of sexual assault — between 1998 and 2014.

The whistleblower identified 15 locations, leading to a large-scale exhumation effort by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Eight of the flagged sites lie along the banks of the Nethravathi River, while others are spread across nearby highways and rural areas.

Spot 11 is located near the highway close to the river, in a region the SIT has now prioritized for deeper excavation and forensic analysis.

Verification Underway

While senior officials have confirmed that “something” was recovered from Spot 11, forensic teams are still examining the material to confirm whether it is indeed human remains.

“We are verifying that. There will be more information once it is confirmed,” a senior SIT officer told reporters, maintaining caution amid the high public interest in the case.

The whistleblower accompanied the team during today's operation, further strengthening the credibility of his earlier testimony. His cooperation has been crucial in guiding investigators to key spots — and in locating the first pieces of physical evidence last week.

The Sites Under Investigation

Here’s a breakdown of the 15 burial and cremation sites flagged by the whistleblower:

Spots 1–8: Along the Nethravathi River

Spots 9–12: Beside the highway near the river

Spot 13: On the road connecting Nethravathi to Aajukuri

Spots 14–15: In the Kanyadi area near the highway

Each location is being methodically excavated and examined under strict forensic protocols.

What Happens Next?

If forensic testing confirms the remains at Spot 11 are human, it could mark a major breakthrough in what is shaping up to be one of India’s most disturbing criminal investigations in recent memory.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate ‘Kartavya Bhawan’ on August 6, marking yet another milestone in the ambitious Central Vista Redevelopment Project, India’s boldest administrative infrastructure overhaul since independence.

What Is Kartavya Bhawan?

The newly-constructed Kartavya Bhawan will serve as a key government hub, housing the offices of the Union Home Ministry, the Department of Personnel & Training, and other major departments. The building is designed to modernize and centralize administrative functions, replacing scattered and outdated government offices across Delhi.

Part of the Grand Central Vista Vision

Kartavya Bhawan is the latest addition to the Central Vista Redevelopment Project — a multi-billion rupee transformation of India’s political and bureaucratic nerve center. Other completed projects under this plan include:

The new Parliament building, already in operation

A revamped three-kilometer-long Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) stretching from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate

The ongoing construction of the Common Central Secretariat, intended to consolidate various ministries into modern, energy-efficient buildings

Why It Matters

This redevelopment is more than an architectural facelift — it symbolizes a reimagining of India's governance infrastructure. Designed with sustainability, efficiency, and national pride in mind, Kartavya Bhawan and other Central Vista projects are meant to meet the administrative needs of a 21st-century India.

PM Modi has often emphasized the project’s symbolism, with the name "Kartavya Bhawan" (House of Duty) reflecting a vision of responsibility-driven governance.

Looking Ahead

In a shocking and deeply disturbing incident that has sparked national outrage, a SpiceJet ground staffer, Mudasir Ahmad, has come forward with his account of being brutally assaulted by a senior Army officer at Srinagar Airport on July 26.

What Happened at Srinagar Airport

According to Ahmad, the altercation began over a dispute regarding excess cabin baggage. When the SpiceJet team informed the passenger — a senior army officer — about the additional charges, things took a violent turn.

“He hit me on my face with baggage. He slapped me and started hitting me. He used his fists and feet to hit me... At the end, he punched me and I fell down,” Ahmad told ANI.

The attack left four airline employees injured, with Ahmad suffering a fractured jaw and spine.

Caught on Camera

The incident came to public attention after a video went viral, showing the officer assaulting the airline staff using a steel signboard stand. The footage has led to widespread condemnation and calls for accountability, both from within civil society and the aviation industry.

Safety at Stake

While arguments at airports over baggage fees are not uncommon, the level of violence in this case has shocked the nation. The incident raises serious concerns about passenger aggression, employee safety, and the limits of authority — even in uniform.

Industry insiders say that this incident is not just about one violent altercation, but part of a growing pattern of airline staff facing abuse and assault.

What's Next?

Authorities have launched an investigation, and the Army has promised to look into the matter seriously. As of now, public and media pressure is mounting for strict legal action against the officer involved.

The Human Cost

Ahmad’s case is a painful reminder that airline employees — often the first point of contact for frustrated or impatient passengers — deserve protection and dignity at work.

When you hear "big fat Indian wedding," chances are you're imagining vibrant lehengas, Bollywood beats, marigold-draped mandaps, and an emotional rollercoaster of traditions. Now imagine all that minus the actual wedding — no bride, no groom, no family drama, no pheras. Just pure, unadulterated celebration.

Welcome to the world of fake Indian weddings, Gen Z’s newest obsession.

What’s a Fake Wedding, Anyway?

In India’s trend-driven urban nightlife, fake weddings have burst onto the scene as the ultimate experience: a full-blown wedding party — sangeet, baraat, dhol, dancing — but without any nuptials involved.

These are ticketed events hosted by clubs, hotels, and event companies, promising the glam and vibe of a real wedding, without rituals, family expectations, or pressure. Think: wedding-themed rager, complete with tequila-filled gol gappas.

From Delhi to Bengaluru: The Scene Is Booming

Last week in Delhi, a luxe club hosted a fake sangeet that could rival any real one. Women twirled in sequinned saris, men flaunted embroidered kurtas, and a live dhol drummer led the dance floor. For attendees like Shivangi Sareen, the night was a refreshing break from traditional weddings.

“At family weddings, there’s so much pressure. But here, it’s just fun. We got to dress up and enjoy it all with friends — no relatives judging us,” she said.

The price? Around ₹10,000 per couple — and she says it was “totally worth it.”

Big Business in Pretend Bliss

Entrepreneurs in hospitality are cashing in. Sharad Madan, a restaurant owner in Delhi, says the fake wedding he hosted cost around ₹10 lakh to organize — but ticket sales are expected to double that.

“It’s not just about profits. Patrons want novelty, and this delivers,” he explained.

Meanwhile in Bengaluru, 8Club Events hosted a fake wedding with 2,000 attendees at a five-star hotel. Inspired by Indian diaspora parties abroad, co-founder Kaushal Chanani says the format taps into deep cultural nostalgia mixed with a modern twist.

“We now have an SOP — a full guide — on how to host these events,” he added, with plans to expand to Jaipur, Kolkata, and Lucknow.

Sober, Spiritual, or Just Silly? There’s Something for Everyone

Not all fake weddings involve booze and bass drops. Third Place, a Bengaluru-based start-up, recently hosted a “sober sangeet,” featuring team games, astrology-themed activities, and — notably — no alcohol.

“Sometimes, alcohol takes away from the experience,” said CEO Anurag Pandey. “We wanted to recreate the joy of weddings without turning it into another club night.”

A Generational Shift

Experts see fake weddings as a reflection of how Gen Z approaches celebration — focusing more on immersive experiences than formalities or obligations.

“People want a reason to celebrate. Weddings offer the perfect aesthetic and emotional mix — minus the stress,” said cultural commentator Santosh Desai.

It also gives attendees a chance to rewear that ₹30,000 lehenga collecting dust in the closet.

But Is the Honeymoon Phase Real?

While some believe the trend is here to stay, others see it as a passing phase. Vijay Arora of Touchwood Events calls it a “fad with potential,” adding:

“If it evolves into its own category, it could be a game-changer for the events industry.”

India’s wedding industry is valued at a staggering $130 billion. With real weddings concentrated during the cooler months (November–March), fake weddings could keep venues and vendors busy during the off-season.

Not Everyone Is Sold

Some attendees have walked away disappointed. Srishti Sharma, a 23-year-old marketing professional in Bengaluru, attended a fake wedding hoping for shaadi vibes. Instead, she got EDM, fries, and no dessert.

“It felt lazy. The food didn’t match the theme, and they didn’t even start with Bollywood music,” she said.

Others question whether these events trivialize tradition. But many like Vidhi Kapoor, who attended the Delhi fake sangeet, argue it’s just light-hearted fun.

“No one’s mocking rituals. It’s just a theme — and one that lets us celebrate without judgment,” she said.

Final Verdict: Just Fun or Future of Festivity?

Tensions between Washington and New Delhi escalated this week as a top aide to former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly accused India of "effectively financing Russia’s war in Ukraine" by continuing to import Russian oil—despite mounting U.S. pressure to halt such trade.

Speaking on Fox News' Sunday Morning Futures, Trump’s deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller criticized India’s position, calling it one of the strongest rebukes yet from the Trump camp toward a key Indo-Pacific ally.

“People will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil. That’s an astonishing fact,” Miller said.

The remarks come just days after a 25% tariff on Indian products went into effect, targeting countries that have continued trade with Russia—particularly in defense and energy sectors. Trump has also warned of 100% tariffs on U.S. imports from such nations unless Russia agrees to a major peace deal in Ukraine.

India Stands Firm

Despite the mounting economic pressure, Indian officials have made it clear: New Delhi will continue purchasing Russian oil, citing strategic autonomy and national interest. Indian government sources told Reuters on Saturday that energy security remains a priority, and the U.S. threats are unlikely to sway policy decisions.

The Indian Embassy in Washington has yet to comment on Miller’s statements.

A Tough Stance with a Diplomatic Note

While the tone of Miller’s criticism was direct, he also softened the message slightly by highlighting the personal rapport between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“The relationship between Mr. Trump and Prime Minister Modi is tremendous,” Miller said, signaling that despite political disagreements, personal diplomacy may still hold weight.

Geopolitical Tightrope

India has faced growing scrutiny from Western nations for its neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war. While it has condemned violence, it has not joined Western sanctions and continues to trade with Moscow—especially in energy, where discounted Russian oil plays a vital role in cushioning India’s import bills.

In a dramatic courtroom exchange, the Supreme Court of India sharply criticized Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi for his claims that China had annexed 2,000 square kilometers of Indian territory. While the apex court temporarily stayed the defamation proceedings against him, it minced no words in questioning both the accuracy and intent of his statements.

“If you’re a true Indian, you wouldn’t say it,” remarked the bench, pulling Gandhi up over his comments made during a 2022 press conference.

Court to Gandhi: Why Not Raise This in Parliament?

A two-judge bench comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Augustine George Masih posed a direct challenge to Gandhi, asking:

“How did you know about 2,000 km being annexed by the Chinese? You being leader of the Opposition, why would you say these things? Why will you not ask these questions in Parliament?”

The top court was hearing Gandhi's plea seeking to quash a defamation case filed in Uttar Pradesh. The case had been triggered by his repeated public statements accusing China of territorial encroachment and the Modi government of remaining silent on the matter.

The Origins of the Controversy

Gandhi had first made the claim during a press conference in Rajasthan in 2022, where he said:

“They will ask about Bharat Jodo Yatra and Ashok Gehlot, but no one will ask about China capturing 2,000 square kilometres of Indian territory or killing 20 of our soldiers.”

He reiterated similar points during a press meet in Jammu and Kashmir in January 2023, asserting that former Indian Army personnel and a Ladakhi delegation had confirmed the territorial loss.

“The Prime Minister is the only person who believes China has not taken any land. I met ex-army officers and a delegation from Ladakh who said Chinese troops have occupied several patrolling points.”

Free Speech or Defamation?

Rahul Gandhi challenged the case in the Allahabad High Court earlier this year, calling it “politically motivated” and claiming it was filed with malicious intent. However, on May 29, the High Court refused to quash the proceedings, ruling that freedom of speech does not extend to defamatory attacks on the Indian Army.

The Congress leader then approached the Supreme Court for relief.

While the Supreme Court has now stayed the ongoing defamation trial, the justices’ strong remarks indicate they are taking the matter seriously.

Government Responds Swiftly

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who hails from Arunachal Pradesh—a region often at the center of India-China tensions—was quick to respond. Reposting his earlier statements on X (formerly Twitter), Rijiju reiterated that:

“China has not taken even an inch of land in Arunachal Pradesh.” He criticized Gandhi for spreading a "false narrative", asserting it undermines national morale and security.

A Matter of National Integrity or Political Posturing?

The controversy has reignited a long-standing debate in India about freedom of expression, national security, and the limits of political speech. Rahul Gandhi’s supporters argue that he's raising uncomfortable truths the government wants to avoid, while critics—including the judiciary—question the wisdom of making such claims publicly without clear evidence.

August 4, 2025 — A senior official in former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has launched a stinging rebuke of India, accusing the South Asian nation of "effectively financing" Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine through its continued purchase of Russian oil.

Stephen Miller, deputy chief of staff at the White House and a close Trump confidant, issued the remarks during an appearance on Fox News on Sunday (August 3). His comments mark one of the strongest critiques of India by the Trump camp to date—particularly pointed, given India’s strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region.

“What he [Trump] said very clearly is that it is not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing oil from Russia,” Miller stated.

Miller added that many Americans would be “shocked” to learn that India is now “basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil,” calling the situation “astonishing.”

India Pushes Back, Despite Penalty Risks

While the Indian Embassy in Washington declined immediate comment, sources within the Indian government told Reuters that New Delhi will not alter its policy and will continue importing Russian oil—despite mounting pressure from the U.S.

This tension comes as U.S. tariffs on Indian goods took effect last Friday, following India’s purchases of both military equipment and energy from Russia. The Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff, and President Trump has threatened to escalate it to 100% for countries that maintain oil imports from Russia unless Moscow moves toward a major peace deal with Ukraine.

Analysts warn that if these penalties intensify, India’s annual oil import bill could rise by $9–11 billion.

Strategic Tensions With a Friendly Face

Despite the harsh rhetoric, Miller emphasized the personal rapport between President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“The relationship between Mr. Trump and Prime Minister Modi is tremendous,” Miller said, offering a diplomatic note amid otherwise scathing remarks.

The Supreme Court on Friday sharply criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his past comments about freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, calling them “irresponsible,” while granting relief by staying the Allahabad High Court's order that refused to quash criminal proceedings against him.

A bench led by Justice Dipankar Datta, while hearing the plea, reprimanded Gandhi’s counsel, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, and questioned the historical awareness behind the controversial remarks made during the Bharat Jodo Yatra in November 2022.

"Does your client even know that Mahatma Gandhi signed letters as 'your faithful servant' to the British? Should he be called a servant of the British just because of that? Indira Gandhi, his grandmother, praised this very gentleman (Savarkar) in a letter when she was Prime Minister," Justice Datta pointed out.

The bench emphasized that making careless statements about freedom fighters, especially without understanding historical context, was deeply inappropriate. "Don’t make irresponsible comments about those who fought for our independence. Freedom fighters gave us this liberty—this is not how we treat them," the bench warned.

The court took serious note of Gandhi's remarks on Savarkar and said any future such comments would invite suo motu action. "He is a national political leader. When you go to Maharashtra, remember Savarkar is revered there. Please avoid such statements," the bench cautioned.

Despite the scathing criticism, the Supreme Court issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh government and complainant advocate Nripendra Pandey, and stayed the high court’s order which had upheld the summons issued to Gandhi by a trial court.

Singhvi attempted to defuse the situation, stating that Gandhi had no intention to incite enmity or disrespect. The bench, however, replied sternly, "When you don't know the full history, you shouldn’t speak. The message should now be clear."

Background of the Case

The case against Rahul Gandhi was filed after he allegedly made derogatory remarks about Savarkar during a public rally in Maharashtra's Akola district on November 17, 2022, as part of his Bharat Jodo Yatra. The complaint accused him of promoting enmity and attempting to defame Savarkar as part of a larger conspiracy.