Kolkata, Feb 20 (IANS) A fresh round of dispute between the Election Commission of India and the West Bengal government seems to be in the offing over the real definition of suspension of the electoral officers found guilty of violating the ECI-set guidelines for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state.

On one hand, the West Bengal government is standing by the Chief Minister's position that the suspension is limited to removing the suspended electoral officers from their duties and, hence, they can be used in other state administrative roles.

However, insiders from the Chief Electoral Officers (CEO), West Bengal, stated that the ECI had clearly explained that suspension is not just the withdrawal of suspended officers from electoral duty, but also the withdrawal from any administrative assignment.

“Besides suspending a section of the electoral officers, the ECI has also directed the state government to initiate departmental proceedings against such officers. There lies the question of how fair and unbiased departmental proceedings could be possible by retaining them in their respective administrative positions,” explained a CEO’s office insider.

He also said that the ECI is keeping a close watch on whether the state government will initiate a departmental probe against these suspended electoral officers.

“The state government is supposed to send a compliance report to the Commission about the initiation of a departmental probe against these suspended electoral officers. If the compliance report is not received after the lapse of a reasonable period, the Commission would surely decide on the next course of action in the matter,” the CEO’s office insider said.

Political observers feel that even if the state government sticks to its stand that suspension means just withdrawal from electoral duty, there is no guarantee that the suspended electoral officers will finally be able to escape a bigger action on the part of the ECI.

Once the model code of conduct is in force because of the forthcoming Assembly elections in the state scheduled this year, no one would be able to resist the ECI from taking penal action against these suspended officers under the provisions of the Representation of the People Act.

So far, the ECI has suspended two electoral registration officers (EROs), nine assistant electoral registration officers (AEROs), one data-entry operator, and three micro-observers. While the three micro-observers are Central government officials, the rest are state government staff.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 20 (IANS) The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) on Friday said that the much-publicised ‘India AI Impact Summit 2026', intended to be a global showcase of India’s technological prowess, has instead drawn intense international scrutiny and domestic criticism.

"While the summit aimed to highlight the nation's Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) initiatives, a series of fraudulent displays by a private educational institution turned the celebratory event into a source of global ridicule," the party has said.

The Thackeray camp in the party's mouthpiece 'Saamana' took a swipe at the BJP-led government at the Centre, saying that it has become synonymous with "events".

"Prime Minister Modi himself prefers to remain within this framework, ensuring that any programme or initiative is conducted in a celebratory or event-like manner. The 'India AI Impact Summit, 2026', a global exhibition organised in New Delhi, was no different. Like previous government-sponsored events, this summit met a similar fate. Instead of earning global acclaim, India faced international embarrassment due to the deceptions of Galgotias University, it said.

The editorial said that the controversy erupted during the exhibition at Bharat Mandapam, where Galgotias University showcased high-tech products under the guise of indigenous innovation. ”The university presented a four-legged robotic dog, branded as 'Orion', claiming it was an in-house creation developed by its Centre of Excellence. However, social media users and experts quickly identified the machine as the Unitree Go2', a commercially available product manufactured by the Chinese firm Unitree Robotics,” it said.

Following the robotic dog row, a 'Soccer Drone' showcased by the same institution also came under fire. While university representatives claimed it was a homegrown engineering achievement, it was revealed to be a product developed by South Korea’s Helsel Group, said the editorial.

Faced with mounting backlash, government organisers took the unprecedented step of cutting the power supply to the university’s stall and ordering its representatives to vacate the premises immediately, stated the editorial.

“The embarrassment extended to the highest levels of government. Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, had initially shared a video of the robotic dog on his official social media account, apparently unaware of its foreign origin. The post was deleted shortly after the truth emerged, leading to sharp rebukes from critics who questioned the lack of oversight at an international summit,” claimed the Thackeray camp.

Amidst the exhibition chaos, the editorial said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the summit, outlining a new ethical framework for Artificial Intelligence known as the 'MANAV' Vision. “While the Prime Minister’s vision was well-received by global tech leaders, the fraud occurring at the summit itself -- directly contradicting these principles of accountability and validity -- cast a long shadow over the proceedings. While these thoughts are valuable, they were undermined by the fraud committed by an Indian university at the exhibition itself. It questions whether this 'AI Mahakumbh' demonstrated India's strength in the global AI sector or was merely another instance of government mismanagement,” remarked the Thackeray camp.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena commented that the event, meant to showcase "Self-reliant India", ultimately exposed significant mismanagement and a reliance on "borrowed" innovation.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 20 (IANS) In a major breakthrough, the Delhi Police have solved a blind robbery case within 48 hours, arresting four robbers after scanning 200 CCTV cameras and tracking a 32 km trail within the national capital.

The police also arrested the kingpin, officials said on Friday.

The police, in a statement, said that on February 16, the information was received at Karol Bagh police station regarding a snatching incident near Ganga Ram Hospital Crossing, wherein the victim had sustained a head injury. Upon receipt of the information, the police immediately reached Ganga Ram City Hospital, Pusa Road, where the injured victim was admitted.

The victim stated that he had come to Karol Bagh from Dwarka via Metro for shopping, when an unknown person aged about 25 years approached him and tried asking some questions about the market. He ignored the conversation. After some time, he noticed the same person, along with another man, following him and attempting to engage him in conversation.

One of them claimed that the other person was carrying cash allegedly stolen from his employer, and, since he did not have a bank account, he needed help depositing the money. They even showed some cash kept in a bag to gain his confidence. Sensing something suspicious, he began walking briskly towards the Ganga Ram Hospital red light, but both individuals continued to follow him.

“On the way, in an attempt to seek help, he noticed a vehicle with a red beacon light and presumed it to be a police vehicle. However, upon reaching closer, he realised it was an ambulance. Meanwhile, the two individuals intercepted him, pushed him towards a broken boundary wall in a jungle area opposite Sir Ganga Ram City Hospital, and initiated a scuffle. During the assault, one of them struck him on the head two to three times with a brick and forcibly snatched his iPhone before fleeing from the spot,” the statement mentioned.

Based on the statement of the victim, a case vide FIR No. 234/2026, U/s 309(6)/3(5) BNS, was registered at the Karol Bagh police station, and investigation was promptly taken up. “Considering the gravity of the offence and the modus operandi adopted by the offenders, a dedicated police team of Karol Bagh police station comprising ASI Prakash, Ct. Kamaljeet, Ct. Khushal and HC Raja Ram was constituted to trace and apprehend the accused persons. The team was formed under the close supervision of the SHO, PS Karol Bagh, and under the overall supervision of ACP, Sub-Division Karol Bagh,” the statement said.

The team examined CCTV footage in and around the Ajmal Khan Market area to trace the movement of the suspects. Analysis of the footage revealed that the accused persons were using a van. It was further observed that one additional associate was following behind the two accused persons who were engaging the victim and executing the robbery. Subsequently, the investigating team proceeded to Sonia Vihar and conducted a detailed examination of CCTV footage from the surrounding areas to generate further leads.

The police mounted technical surveillance, and the requisite details of the robbed mobile phone were obtained. After sustained efforts, the police team traced the suspected vehicle and initiated an interception. "Upon noticing the presence of the police party, the driver attempted to evade apprehension, leading to a controlled pursuit. The accused persons were eventually cornered near Delhi Cantt and were successfully apprehended," said the officials.

The arrested have been identified as Ibrar, Suleman, Aashiq Khan and Aslam.

During sustained interrogation, the accused persons disclosed their modus operandi. They revealed that they used to prepare bundles of paper (fake currency) with a genuine Rs 500 currency note placed on the top to give the appearance of a large amount of cash.

"On this pretext, they would approach unsuspecting victims and lure them by claiming that the cash had been stolen and needed to be deposited or converted discreetly. After gaining the victim’s confidence, they would persuade the person to make online payments to accounts provided by them, against the assurance of sharing the cash amount. Once the online payment was received, the accused persons would immediately flee from the spot," the statement mentioned.

“In the present case, the victim refused to make any online payment and was also reluctant to hand over his mobile phone. Upon facing resistance, and to create fear and overpower the victim, the accused persons assaulted him and forcibly snatched his mobile phone before escaping from the scene,” said the police.

--IANS

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Washington, Feb 20 (IANS) Popular African American singer Mary Millben has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi “came out of this with the better deal” in the recently concluded US–India trade negotiations, arguing that patience and diplomacy gave India the upper hand.

In an exclusive interview with IANS in Washington after a performance at the Trump Kennedy Center, Millben said, “It's great that a deal is finally in place. I certainly applaud the President (Trump) and Prime Minister Modi on coming to a resolution.”

But she was unequivocal about who gained more. “I will always tip the hat to the Prime Minister because in my book, he wins in this terrain,” she said. “He was very measured. He was very patient. He never wavered to make sure that he got what was best for India.”

Responding to criticism from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi that PM Modi had “sold India”, Millben rejected the charge outright. “Well, that's not true,” she said. “You can't take Mr. Gandhi's remarks seriously,” she added.

“He (PM Modi) got the better end of the deal because he patiently waited while the Trump administration had to get themselves together and figure out how it was doing business with a very strong ally.” Noting that Gandhi spends more time overseas, Millben said he's always in opposition to the Prime Minister and his own country.

Millben said a series of geopolitical developments strengthened India’s hand. She referred to “the meeting that happened in September last year between (Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin, (Chinese) President Xi (Jinping), and Prime Minister Mody” and also pointed to “the (recent) EU-India trade deal”.

“I actually believe it was the EU-India deal. That was the wake-up call to the president and the Trump administration,” she said. “Once that was in place… then the writing was on the wall as to where things needed to go from there with the United States and India.”

On what should follow, she urged Washington to move beyond the trade pact and repair broader ties.

“Just because a trade deal is in place does not mean that that erases months of bad diplomacy from the United States as it relates to India,” she said.

“One of the most important steps that the President could make is to invite the Prime Minister to the United States on a State visit,” she added. “Repairing the relationship should matter more than just a temporary trade deal.”

Millben also spoke about India’s global positioning, citing the ongoing AI Summit hosted by PM Modi. “You saw that here at the AI Summit, where you had countries from all over the world, world leaders from all over the world in India this week,” she said.

“If you wanna do business in the world, you have to have India involved,” she added, calling India “in the most important position in the world to do business.”

On the newly announced “Board of Peace” initiative in Washington, she welcomed the idea but warned against a one-sided approach.

“Not the United States dictating peace to the world, but the United States being a leader in convening conversation about peace across the world,” she said. “If it's the President and the United States dictating peace, then it will not be successful.”

Ending on a cultural note, Millben revealed she is preparing new music for India’s Independence Day in August. “We do have new music being prepared for India's Independence Day,” she said.

Referring to Vande Mataram, she added, “Who knows, maybe we'll have a song coming for August.”

She expressed gratitude to her supporters in India and the diaspora. “I'm so grateful… to call India and Indian communities across the world my family,” she said. “I've, I've been very, very humbled to have 1.5 billion people… so kind to me.”

Millben has in recent years built a strong following among Indian and Indian-American audiences through performances and public appearances marking key national occasions. She has frequently spoken about US–India ties and has participated in cultural events linked to the diaspora in Washington and beyond.

--IANS

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Director : Aashish Mall, Writers : Anil Agarwal, Nitin Sawant, Rohit Gehlot, Utsav Dan, Duration : 112 Minutes, Rating : 4.5

A lot has been said, criticized, and debated about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh over the decades. Shatak does something extraordinary—it transforms discussion into experience, debate into understanding, and history into living, breathing moments.

This film is not just about events; it is about the people, the courage, and the unshakable conviction behind one of India’s most influential movements. Ambitiously, it covers the first 50 years of the RSS, with the promise of the next 50 years still to unfold—a cinematic journey that leaves the audience eagerly anticipating what is yet to come.

From the very first scene, Shatak establishes itself as a masterpiece of historical storytelling. One of India’s pioneering films to blend live-action with the most advanced technology, it uses cutting-edge techniques not as a spectacle but as a seamless bridge to bring historical figures and moments to life with stunning realism.

The film’s depiction of Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar is profoundly moving. Here is a man -India's forgotten hero whose belief in discipline, character, and service laid the foundation of a century-long mission. Watching his early years, his humble beginnings and the sacrifices he endured during the freedom struggle builds him into not just a founder, but a visionary whose quiet resolve shaped a movement larger than himself. The simplicity of the early days—the open fields, the small gatherings, the tentative steps of an idea—feels honest, lived-in, and inspiring. These scenes remind us that monumental movements are often born in the humblest of settings, nurtured by dedication rather than spectacle.

As the narrative moves into the leadership of Guruji Madhav Sadasiva Golwalkar, the film’s tone deepens, capturing moments of introspection, tension, and resilience. The film uncovers and builds perspectives to the multiple bans on RSS during the freedom struggle and then following Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination is portrayed with quiet gravitas rather than melodrama. The rebuilding of the organization during this period, depicted with patient attention to detail, showcases strategic foresight, moral courage, and unwavering commitment. The film allows these chapters to breathe, giving the audience a chance to truly grasp the scale and significance of the challenges faced.

Shatak is not only about organizational history—it is about India’s nation-building moments. The liberation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is depicted with restraint and dignity, a quiet but powerful celebration of freedom. The efforts to secure Kashmir and the guidance provided in turbulent times are handled with sensitivity and precision, reminding viewers that the RSS played a significant role behind the scenes in shaping India’s destiny. These sequences are a testament to courage, vision, and the spirit of service, portrayed in a way that resonates long after the screen goes dark.

What makes Shatak remarkable is its focus on human stories within history. Young swayamsevaks leaving home, families facing uncertainty, volunteers quietly taking on enormous responsibility—the film captures their emotions, fears, and steadfast dedication. Each frame lingers just enough for the audience to feel the weight of commitment and the nobility of purpose, making history deeply personal and profoundly moving.

The team behind Shatak deserves boundless praise. Conceptualized by Anil D. Agarwal, directed with nuance and care by Aashish Mall, and produced by Vir Kapur with co-producer Aashish Tiwari under Ada 360 Degree LLP, the film is a labor of passion, integrity, and belief. Every creative choice reflects respect for history, the organization, and the people whose stories are being told. The filmmakers could have gone for sensationalism—but instead, they embraced authenticity, subtlety, and depth.

Shatak is not just a historical recounting; it is an emotional, eye-opening exploration of conviction, courage, and service. It transforms debates about the RSS into understanding and empathy, showing viewers that behind every movement are people willing to dedicate their lives to an idea greater than themselves. By the end, one walks away with a profound respect for the century-long journey of the RSS, its role in nation-building, and the quiet, unwavering commitment of its members.

In essence, Shatak is a cinematic celebration of belief, resilience, and dedication. It is moving, inspiring, and unforgettable—a film that doesn’t just depict history, but makes you feel it, live it, and admire the men and women who shaped it. The first 50 years are captured with brilliance; the next 50 are awaited with anticipation. Shatak is not merely a film—it is a heartfelt tribute to an idea that refused to bend.

Shatak stands as a masterclass in storytelling, historical insight, and emotional resonance. It is a moving, inspiring, and deeply praiseworthy tribute to the RSS and the ordinary individuals whose extraordinary dedication helped shape the nation.

The 'Toxic' teaser reveals a massive, cinematic world that is both vibrant and brutal. Moving from a circus setting to an East Asian-inspired backdrop, the story spans different time periods with a dark, edgy atmosphere. Yet, beneath the brutal exterior and high-octane visuals, the teaser offers a glimpse into something deeper: a meticulous focus on storytelling and powerhouse performance that serves as the beating heart of this gritty universe.

At the centre of this cinematic storm stands Rocking Star Yash, undergoing a transformation that is nothing short of a total reinvention. His physical evolution serves as one of the film’s most powerful statements, showcasing a range of appearances—from a lean, agile silhouette to a massive, battle-hardened physique—all forged through relentless discipline.

However, this evolution goes far deeper than mere aesthetics. Yash infuses each distinct look with precise body language and sharp mannerisms, signaling an intense, layered performance that marks a total departure from his previous roles. These transformations are unlike anything witnessed in the film’s journey so far, signaling a bold new chapter for the superstar.

It may be recalled that the makers have already disclosed the looks and character names of the actresses who are a part of the film. Nayanthara plays Ganga, Kiara Advani plays Nadia, Huma Qureshi plays Elizabeth, Rukmini Vasanth plays Mellisa, and Tara Sutaria stars as Rebecca in the film.

For the unaware, 'Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups' is slated to hit cinemas worldwide on March 19 this year.

Written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas and directed by Geetu Mohandas, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has been simultaneously shot in Kannada and English, with dubbed versions planned in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and several other languages.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 20 (IANS) In a fresh development in the case, Bollywood star Ranveer Singh reportedly received a threat from the Bishnoi gang, which demanded Rs 10 crore through a voice note sent to his manager from an American number.

A senior Mumbai Police official said the crime branch is contacting the concerned agency in the United States through official protocol to obtain details about the number.

During its probe, the Mumbai crime branch found that one of the Bishnoi gang’s close aides, Harry Boxer, reportedly sent the voice note threatening Ranveer Singh and demanding Rs 10 crore as extortion.

In the preliminary investigation, the crime branch confirmed that the voice note received on Ranveer Singh’s manager’s WhatsApp bore Harry Boxer’s voice.

Officials are currently gathering further evidence in the case. According to the crime branch, the voice note was sent after the firing incident at filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s residence.

The threat was sent to Ranveer’s manager’s mobile number following the firing at Rohit Shetty’s house. After the threat surfaced, security around Ranveer Singh was tightened. The crime branch has recorded the statement of his manager and is continuing the investigation.

Police have not yet registered an FIR in the matter, but have initiated a preliminary inquiry.

On the professional front, Ranveer will soon be seen in the sequel to the blockbuster Dhurandhar. Titled ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’, the film is slated to release on March 19.

Dhurandhar also stars R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, and Arjun Rampal. Serving as the first instalment of a two-part film series, it centres on a high-stakes covert counter-terrorism operation.

The film follows an undercover Indian intelligence agent who infiltrates Karachi's criminal syndicates and political power structures in Pakistan in an effort to dismantle a terror network targeting India.

The film's storyline draws loose inspiration from multiple real-life geopolitical events and conflicts in South Asia, including the 1999 IC-814 hijacking, the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and developments linked to Pakistan's Operation Lyari.

“Dhurandhar 2” resumes with Hamza Ali Mazhari, an Indian undercover agent who has successfully infiltrated Pakistan’s underworld. After taking down Rehman Dakait, Hamza ascends the ranks of power, only to face his most formidable adversary yet Major Iqbal, the ISI mastermind known as Bade Sahab.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) India’s share in global electronics demand has expanded at a rapid compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.2 per cent, significantly outpacing global growth of 4.4 per cent between 2015 and 2024, driven primarily by the sharp rise in mobile phone exports, according to NITI Aayog's Trade Watch Quarterly report for July-September 2025-26, launched on Friday.

Between 2016 and 2024, electronics exports increased nearly five-fold, reaching USD 42.1 billion. With global electronics trade valued at USD 4.6 trillion, the sector represents one of the largest and fastest-evolving segments of the world economy. India has demonstrated particular strength in products such as mobile phones, consumer electronics, and communication equipment, with exports increasingly directed towards major final-consumption markets including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the UAE, the report states.

Electronics, the thematic focus of this quarter's edition, has emerged as a cornerstone of India's manufacturing and export transformation. Now the second-largest item in India's export basket, the sector is both technology-led and deeply interconnected with industries such as automotive, renewable energy, telecom, defence, and digital services, making it a powerful multiplier for industrial growth.

The report states that having established a strong foothold in assembly and system integration, India is now entering the next phase of its electronics journey, moving decisively toward component manufacturing and higher value addition. This transition is supported by targeted policy measures, including the Union Budget's Rs 40,000 crore allocation under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme, aimed at strengthening domestic capabilities.

The analysis underscores that sustained competitiveness will be driven by deeper integration into global electronics value chains, encompassing printed circuit board design, semiconductor assembly and testing, power electronics, and embedded systems. Complemented by continued improvements in logistics efficiency, tariff rationalisation, and industry-aligned skill development, these shifts position electronics as a key engine of India's export growth and technological advancement in the coming decade.

NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery said, "Electronics, as the organising core of modern manufacturing value chains, with semiconductors and components, plays a key role in determining trade balances and technological sovereignty. While India has achieved scale in final assembly, sustained competitiveness will depend on correcting structural cost disabilities, deepening domestic component ecosystems, and leveraging anchor investments in components to embed Indian firms more firmly within global production networks."

The publication also provides a comprehensive assessment of global and domestic trade trends at a time when global trade growth has moderated but remains positive, with services continuing to outperform goods and developing regions emerging as key drivers.

The analysis highlights that India's trade performance in Q2 FY26 was driven by export-led momentum sustaining the overall trade expansion amid heightened global uncertainty. Services and merchandise exports recorded robust growth of around 8.5 per cent, outpacing import growth in both merchandise and services.

At a structural level, the edition underscores the deepening of trade among developing economies, which has expanded nearly four-fold since 2005 and now accounts for a rising share of global exports, with India’s trade trajectory increasingly aligned with this Global South rebalancing through regional value chains and new trade corridors.

Further, this edition highlights the growing role of e-commerce as a key enabler of future export growth. India is now among the world’s top six e-commerce markets, with electronics accounting for nearly half of online retail.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) In a farmer-centric step to stabilise domestic markets and ensure remunerative returns to producers, the Centre on Friday approved the export of 25 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat, along with an additional 5 LMT of wheat products.

According to a Consumer Affairs Ministry statement, wheat stock availability with private entities during 2025–26 stands at approximately 75 LMT, which is nearly 32 LMT higher compared to the corresponding period last year.

"This substantial year-on-year increase indicates a comfortable supply position in the country. Furthermore, as on April 1, 2026, total wheat availability in the central pool with FCI is projected at around 182 LMT, thus ensuring that export permissions will not impact domestic food security requirements," it said.

Moreover, wheat acreage in Rabi 2026 has also increased to about 334.17 lakh hectares compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year.

This reflects strong farmer confidence in wheat cultivation supported by assured MSP and procurement mechanisms, and signals the likelihood of another robust harvest, the official statement further added.

The decision to permit export of 25 LMT of wheat and 5 LMT wheat products will help stabilise domestic prices, improve market liquidity, ensure efficient stock rotation, and further strengthen farmers’ income while ensuring national food security.

Meanwhile, to facilitate sugar exports, the government decided to allow export of an additional 5 LMT of sugar to willing sugar mills during the current Sugar Season 2025–26.

Earlier, the government had permitted the export of 15 LMT of sugar during the current Sugar Season 2025–26. This decision is expected to facilitate higher sugar exports and help in managing surplus sugar availability in the country.

As per data, only about 1.97 LMT of sugar has been exported up to January 31, 2026.

In addition, approximately 2.72 LMT of sugar has been contracted for export by sugar mills to date.

The ministry said that the additional export quantity of 5 LMT shall be made available to willing sugar mills, subject to the condition that at least 70 per cent of their allocated quantity is exported by June 30, 2026.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Friday met leaders of several farm unions from across the country at the Parliament House.

During the meeting, the farm union representatives expressed strong opposition to the India-US trade deal and conveyed their deep concern over the potential impact on farmers’ livelihoods, particularly those engaged in the cultivation of corn, soybean, cotton, fruits, and nuts.

The leaders told the Congress leader that they fear the agreement could open the door for agricultural imports, which may adversely affect domestic producers. Gandhi also reiterated his position, stating that the trade deal has opened the door for agricultural imports and warned that many other crops could soon be impacted as well.

The discussion also focused on the need for a large-scale national movement to oppose the deal and safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and farm labourers.

The farm leaders who participated in the discussion included Sukhpal S. Khaira (All India Kisan Congress), Ranjit S. Sandhu (GKS Rajasthan), Adv. Ashok Balhara (Bharatiya Kisan Mazdoor Union, Haryana), P.T. John (KMM Kerala), Baldev (BKU Krantikari, Zira), R. NandKumar (Progressive Farmers Front), Amarjit S. Mohri (BKU Shaheed Bhagat Singh), Akhilesh Shukla (All India Kisan Congress), Kedar Sirohi (Aam Kisan Union), Kiranjit S. Sandhu (Kisan Congress Punjab), Gurpreet S. Sangha (Rajya Sabha), Guramneet S. Mangat (Kisan Mazdoor Morcha - India), Hameed Malik (J&K Zamidara Forum), Tejveer Singh (KMM), Dharamvir Goyat (Haryana Kisan Sangarsh Samiti), Ishwar Singh Nain (Krishak Samaj), and Satbir Khatana (South Haryana Kisan Union).

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday asserted he would not be deterred by any FIR, criminal case or privilege motion and asserted that he would continue to fight for farmers' rights.

In a video post on X, Gandhi had reiterated his opposition to the India-US trade deal, claiming it would severely impact Indian farmers. He alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "opened the doors" of India’s agriculture market to foreign players at the cost of domestic producers.

"I have spoken the truth in Parliament. If you do not like the truth, that is a different matter. The country understands the truth. Do whatever you want to do. Let an FIR be filed, let a case be registered or bring a privilege motion. I and the entire party stand with farmers," Gandhi had said.

He had said any trade agreement that threatens farmers' livelihoods or weakens the country's food security is anti-farmer. Gandhi also claimed that corn, soybean, cotton and fruit growers would be the first to suffer, alleging that the government would eventually open the entire farm sector to foreign interests and corporate allies.

--IANS

jk/vd

Jaipur, Feb 13 (IANS) In a significant development in the mysterious death of Sadhvi Prem Baisa, the State Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has submitted its viscera examination report to the police, ruling out poisoning or any unnatural cause of death.

The report, received late Thursday night, has brought a major twist to the case that had sparked widespread speculation and controversy.

According to sources, the FSL analysis found no traces of poison or toxic substances in Sadhvi Prem Baisa's body. This has dismissed earlier suspicions of foul play or forced poisoning.

However, the final cause of death will be determined by the medical board after a detailed review of the forensic findings. Investigators revealed that Sadhvi Prem Baisa had been suffering from asthma and had developed severe breathing difficulties after catching a cold on January 28.

As her condition worsened, she contacted a male nurse, Devi Singh, who administered Dexona and Dynapar injections.

Doctors at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital will now analyse whether these medications or underlying health conditions contributed to her death.

Sadhvi Prem Baisa fell seriously ill at the Aarti Nagar Ashram in Pal village under Boranada police station limits on January 28.

She was taken to a private hospital on Pal Road but was declared dead on arrival.

Following a complaint filed by her father, Biramnath, the police registered a case and conducted a post-mortem examination on January 29 through a medical board. Her viscera samples were sent to the FSL on February 2, and the forensic investigation was completed within 11 days.

During the investigation, compounder Devi Singh stated that the injections were administered based on a prescription allegedly given by a private hospital doctor.

Police are now examining who prescribed the injections and whether proper medical protocols were followed.

While the FSL report has ruled out poisoning, authorities say the case is still under investigation, and all aspects, including medical treatment, circumstances at the ashram, and statements of witnesses, are being scrutinised.

Officials said more clarity will emerge after the medical board submits its final opinion.

--IANS

arc/svn

Mumbai, Feb 20 (IANS) In a fresh development in the case, Bollywood star Ranveer Singh reportedly received a threat from the Bishnoi gang, which demanded Rs 10 crore through a voice note sent to his manager from an American number.

A senior Mumbai Police official said the crime branch is contacting the concerned agency in the United States through official protocol to obtain details about the number.

During its probe, the Mumbai crime branch found that one of the Bishnoi gang’s close aides, Harry Boxer, reportedly sent the voice note threatening Ranveer Singh and demanding Rs 10 crore as extortion.

In the preliminary investigation, the crime branch confirmed that the voice note received on Ranveer Singh’s manager’s WhatsApp bore Harry Boxer’s voice.

Officials are currently gathering further evidence in the case. According to the crime branch, the voice note was sent after the firing incident at filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s residence.

The threat was sent to Ranveer’s manager’s mobile number following the firing at Rohit Shetty’s house. After the threat surfaced, security around Ranveer Singh was tightened. The crime branch has recorded the statement of his manager and is continuing the investigation.

Police have not yet registered an FIR in the matter, but have initiated a preliminary inquiry.

On the professional front, Ranveer will soon be seen in the sequel to the blockbuster Dhurandhar. Titled ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’, the film is slated to release on March 19.

Dhurandhar also stars R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, and Arjun Rampal. Serving as the first instalment of a two-part film series, it centres on a high-stakes covert counter-terrorism operation.

The film follows an undercover Indian intelligence agent who infiltrates Karachi's criminal syndicates and political power structures in Pakistan in an effort to dismantle a terror network targeting India.

The film's storyline draws loose inspiration from multiple real-life geopolitical events and conflicts in South Asia, including the 1999 IC-814 hijacking, the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and developments linked to Pakistan's Operation Lyari.

“Dhurandhar 2” resumes with Hamza Ali Mazhari, an Indian undercover agent who has successfully infiltrated Pakistan’s underworld. After taking down Rehman Dakait, Hamza ascends the ranks of power, only to face his most formidable adversary yet Major Iqbal, the ISI mastermind known as Bade Sahab.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Feb 20 (IANS) Hollywood star Timothee Chalamet feels Gen Z will bear the brunt of teaching society how to live with AI. He also accepts that he has a duty to support them to achieve that.

Speaking at Variety and CNN’s town hall event in Texas, Chalamet said: "It’s going to be all of our war to wage — sounds confrontational, I don’t mean to say it like that — but it’s a dual responsibility. Unfortunately for your generation, I think it’s going to be you guys that figure out how to integrate it. There’s a huge (responsibility for) people that are positions of power now, like myself, like Matthew, to safekeep so that doors stay open.”

“Some of the roles I got that helped kickstart my career, I wouldn’t even know if they’re available today."

The actor told college-age students at the event that they have a moral responsibility to implement AI ethically, according to femalefirst.co.uk.

He shared: "There’s a level of fatalism I feel. It will be on your generation, and mine to an extent, to know how to ethically integrate it, if at all, or do away with it.

"But the fatalist in me feels like this stuff is coming. And the dreamer in me wants to go, ‘Hey, if it enables a 19-year-old to produce something they couldn’t otherwise because gatekeepers is standing in the way, then (good).’ But ultimately, it’s not my place to say."

Chalamet believes that, ultimately, the movie industry will find a healthy way to embrace AI technology.

He said: "I wanna keep the doors open for you guys. But someone’s gonna figure out how to do it all at once. I’m fiercely protective of actors and artists in this industry. And equally, whatever tide is coming, it’s coming."

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 20 (IANS) Global icon Priyanka Chopra reconnected with her Punjabi roots as she shared a happy and fun video of herself singing the traditional folk song “Kali Teri Choti Paranda Tera Laal Ni” on her social media account.

Taking to her social media account on Friday, the global star was seen crooning the popular Punjabi folk number while playfully flaunting her long braided hair extension in her hand with silver hair accessory. Dressed in a white bathrobe, Priyanka appeared in a fun mood and seemed to have tapped into the Punjabi girl in her.

For the uninitiated, “Kali Teri Choti Paranda Tera Laal Ni” is a well-known Punjabi folk track often associated with festivity and tradition.

Talking about Priyanka Chopra, while the actress is now settled in the US, she was born in Jamshedpur in a Punjabi family and spent her formative years across various Indian cities, and has frequently expressed pride in her roots.

Priyanka now seamlessly balances her work projects in Hollywood and India, and often shares moments that reflect her deep bond with Indian traditions.

Recently, the actress was seen turning emotional as she addressed students at Harvard Business School during an India Week session. The actress was heard saying how immensely she felt proud to see an auditorium full of young students dressed in sarees and kurtas, further stating that this was exactly the India she had imagined.

Sharing her experience on her social media account, Priyanka wrote, “So, this is how my day started. I was supposed to give a fireside keynote address with one of my closest friends and business partner Anjula Acharia, to conclude India week at the prestigious Harvard Business School. The topic was ‘The India we imagine’… no big deal, I thought. You can do this, Priyanka.”

The actress further revealed that looking at the audience changed everything for her.

“But looking out into the audience today, I only had one thought - You are the India I imagined. Let me explain,” she added.

Talking at the session whose theme was “The India We Imagine”, Priyanka shed light on her own experience while studying in the US years ago, as a teenager.

Recalling her younger days in USA, she spoke about feeling like an outsider. “When my 12 year old self landed in a high school in Cedar Rapids Iowa, and subsequently to Newton North High School in Massachusetts in the mid 90s, there were not many looked like me."

Priyanka also expressed her thrill and sheer surprise to see so many Desi faces at an international University. “I would have never imagined in 30 something years, I would be speaking to you, the future of our culture, our world, on this stage, in this iconic chamber, where so many incredible people have not only spoken, but where so many leaders of the world as we know it, were born. The audience was packed… and we were Desi… and Desi allies,” she shared.

“It made me want to cry, because this is not what my teenage experience looked like. But I’m so happy that you get to have it. We all stand on the shoulders of the generations before us. I’m so excited that my daughter will have all of you to look up to.”

Expressing pride at seeing representation at one of the world’s top institutions, she wrote, “To see an auditorium full of students, dressed in sarees and kurtas at the campus of HBS (@harvard) in Boston, Massachusetts, where I grew up… to see so many people from my community at one of the best schools in the world, made my heart burst with pride. You are the future.”

Priyanka concluded by thanking the students for their warmth and also expressed gratitude to her husband Nick Jonas and daughter Malti Marie for their support, calling them her “forever Valentine’s”.

On the professional front, the actress is gearing up for her upcoming movie helmed by filmmaker SS Rajamouli. The much-anticipated project is titled as Varanasi and also features Mahesh Babu in the lead alongside her.

–IANS

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Los Angeles, Feb 20 (IANS) Hailey Bieber, the wife of singer-songwriter Justin Bieber, feels fame is not an easy path to tread. She has found fame to be "mentally exhausting".

The 29-year-old model, who is married to pop star Justin Bieber, shared that it's easy to lose a sense of perspective when you're in the spotlight, reports ‘Female First UK’.

Speaking on the Therapuss with Jake Shane podcast, Hailey shared, "'What the f*** did I ever do to you?' It's that times a million of people. Then you get caught up in a cycle of constantly trying to prove yourself (sic)”.

Hailey has actually given up trying to justify what she does and how she behaves to other people.

She said, "I think it's so easy to misunderstand people and pick things apart, see a tiny sliver of such a bigger picture. I've realised there's no amount of explaining yourself. "It really doesn't make a difference at all”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, earlier this month, Hailey opened up about her marriage, revealing that she and her husband find ways of "sharing responsibilities".

The loved-up couple have a 17-month-old son called Jack, and Hailey revealed how they balance their individual careers with their parenting responsibilities.

The model, who is the founder and chief creative officer of the Rhode skincare brand, said during Vogue’s Forces of Fashion event in Australia, "Having a great partner is really important. And sharing responsibilities. I’m here working and my son is at home with his dad living his best life. Having that support is very freeing and makes the decision a little bit easier".

Hailey also revealed that she loves to collaborate with her husband. Hailey, who married Justin in 2018, shared "I’m always super excited to collaborate with the person that I love. (Justin and I) don’t think of it as a work thing. We look at it as, ‘How fun is it that we can both do the things that we’re passionate about, so let’s do something that we’re passionate about together’. We’re both people that really love things that feel effortless and seamless, and want to do things that feel fun”.

--IANS

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