Author: Rakesh Kumar

I am an aspiring journalist and content writer who has recently started my career in the media industry. I have a passion for storytelling and reporting on current affairs, social issues, and human-interest stories. I have done various certifications in mass communication, where I honed my skills in writing, editing, and research. I have also completed several internships and freelance projects for various online and print publications, where I gained valuable experience and exposure. I am always eager to learn new things and explore new opportunities in the field of journalism and content writing. I believe that my creativity, curiosity, and commitment make me a valuable asset to any media organization. I am looking forward to expanding my portfolio and network, and contributing to the growth and success of the media industry.

Blast Rocks Tomb of Iran’s Top General Qassem Soleimani

A powerful explosion has damaged the tomb of Qassem Soleimani, the former commander of Iran’s elite Quds Force, who was killed by a US drone strike in Iraq in 2020. The blast occurred on Monday night, at the Behesht-e-Zahra cemetery in Tehran, where Soleimani is buried. The cause and the perpetrators of the blast are still unknown.

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Who Was Qassem Soleimani and Why Was He Killed?

Qassem Soleimani was one of the most influential and revered military leaders in Iran, and the head of the Quds Force, a branch of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that conducts covert operations and supports proxy militias across the Middle East. Soleimani was widely seen as the architect of Iran’s regional strategy and influence, and as a close ally of the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Soleimani was killed on January 3, 2020, by a US drone strike near the Baghdad airport, along with several other Iranian and Iraqi officials and commanders. The US claimed that Soleimani was planning imminent attacks on American interests and personnel in the region, and that his killing was an act of self-defense and deterrence. However, Iran condemned the killing as an act of terrorism and aggression, and vowed to take revenge.

What Was the Impact and the Aftermath of Soleimani’s Killing?

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Soleimani’s killing triggered a major escalation of tensions and hostility between the US and Iran, and sparked fears of a full-scale war. Iran responded by launching ballistic missile attacks on two US military bases in Iraq, injuring dozens of American soldiers. The US refrained from retaliating further, but imposed more sanctions on Iran.

Soleimani’s killing also had a huge impact on the domestic and regional politics and dynamics of Iran and its allies and rivals. Soleimani was hailed as a national hero and a martyr by millions of Iranians, who attended his funeral and mourned his death. His successor, Esmail Qaani, vowed to continue his legacy and mission, and to expel the US forces from the region. Iran also announced that it would no longer abide by the 2015 nuclear deal, which was already in jeopardy after the US withdrew from it in 2018.

Soleimani’s killing also affected the relations and the stability of Iraq, where he had a significant role and influence. Iraq’s parliament passed a resolution calling for the expulsion of the US troops from the country, but the US refused to comply. Iraq also witnessed protests and violence by the supporters and opponents of Soleimani and Iran, and by the anti-government and pro-democracy activists.

What Does the Blast at Soleimani’s Tomb Mean?

The blast at Soleimani’s tomb is a rare and shocking incident, that has raised questions and speculations about the security and the symbolism of the site. The blast has damaged the glass and the tiles of the tomb, but has not harmed the grave or the body of Soleimani. The blast has also not caused any casualties or injuries, as the site was closed and empty at the time of the incident.

The authorities have not yet revealed the cause or the motive of the blast, or the identity or the affiliation of the perpetrators. The blast could be an accident, a sabotage, or an attack, by either internal or external actors. The blast could also be a message, a warning, or a challenge, to either the Iranian regime or the US administration, or both.

The blast could have implications and consequences for the security and the politics of Iran and the region, especially as the country is preparing for the presidential elections in June, and as the US is seeking to revive the nuclear deal with Iran. The blast could also affect the public sentiment and the perception of Soleimani and his legacy, which are already being contested and debated in Iran and beyond.

Putin’s Ally Threatens to Kill the Families of Criminals on the Run

A close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a chilling warning to the criminals who are hiding from the law. Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Chechnya, a republic in southern Russia, has said that if the criminals are missing, their families should be killed.

Head of Russia’s Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov attends a meeting.(Reuters)

What Did Kadyrov Say?

Kadyrov made the controversial statement in a video posted on his Telegram channel on Monday. He said that he had ordered his security forces to hunt down and eliminate the criminals who are involved in drug trafficking, kidnapping, extortion, and murder. He said that the criminals have no place in Chechnya, and that they should surrender or face death.

He also said that if the criminals are not found, their families should be held responsible and punished. He said that the families should either hand over the criminals, or face the consequences. He said that the security forces have the right to kill the families of the criminals, if they are not cooperating or hiding the truth.

Why Did Kadyrov Say That?

Kadyrov said that he was motivated by his Islamic faith and his duty to protect the people of Chechnya. He said that he was following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who said that whoever kills a believer, his family should be killed. He said that he was also following the example of his father, Akhmad Kadyrov, who was the first president of Chechnya, and who was assassinated by a bomb in 2004.

He said that he was determined to eradicate the crime and corruption in Chechnya, and to ensure peace and stability in the region. He said that he was doing this for the sake of Allah, and for the sake of the Chechen people, who have suffered a lot from the wars and violence in the past.

How Did the People React?

Kadyrov’s statement has sparked a mixed reaction from the people. Some have supported him, and praised him for his strong and decisive leadership. They have said that he is a true Muslim and a true patriot, who is defending the honor and dignity of Chechnya. They have said that he is doing the right thing, and that the criminals deserve no mercy.

However, some have criticized him, and condemned him for his brutal and inhuman approach. They have said that he is violating the human rights and the rule of law, and that he is creating a climate of fear and terror in Chechnya. They have said that he is abusing his power, and that he is acting like a dictator and a tyrant. They have said that he is doing the wrong thing, and that the families of the criminals are innocent.

Adani-Hidenburg Dispute: Supreme Court to Pronounce Judgment Today

The Supreme Court is set to deliver its verdict today on the dispute between Adani Group and Hindenburg Research, a US-based short-seller firm, over the allegations of financial fraud and manipulation by the Indian conglomerate. The apex court had reserved its judgment on December 15, 2020, after hearing the arguments of both parties.

What is the Adani-Hidenburg Dispute?

The Adani-Hidenburg dispute is a legal and financial battle that erupted in June 2020, when Hindenburg Research published a report titled “Adani: The House of Cards”, which accused Adani Group of inflating its assets, revenues, and profits, and of siphoning off funds through a complex web of shell companies and offshore entities. The report also claimed that Adani Group was involved in various scams and controversies, such as the coal import scam, the SEZ scam, the Mundra port scam, and environmental violations.

The report caused a sharp fall in the share prices of Adani Group companies, and also attracted the scrutiny of the regulators, such as the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). Adani Group denied the allegations, and termed the report as “malicious, false, and baseless”. Adani Group also filed a defamation suit against Hidenburg Research in the Bombay High Court, seeking ₹5,000 crore in damages, and an injunction to restrain the firm from publishing any further reports or statements against the group.

What are the Issues Before the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court is hearing an appeal filed by Hidenburg Research, challenging the order of the Bombay High Court, which had granted an interim injunction in favour of Adani Group, and had restrained Hidenburg Research from publishing any further reports or statements against the group. Hidenburg Research contended that the order of the Bombay High Court was erroneous, and that it violated its right to free speech and expression, as guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. Hidenburg Research also argued that its report was based on credible and verifiable sources, and that it was in the public interest to expose the alleged fraud and manipulation by Adani Group.

Adani Group opposed the appeal, and defended the order of the Bombay High Court, stating that it was necessary to protect its reputation and goodwill, which were being tarnished by the false and defamatory allegations of Hidenburg Research. Adani Group also contended that Hidenburg Research had ulterior motives, and that it was acting at the behest of its competitors and rivals, who wanted to sabotage the growth and success of Adani Group.

The Supreme Court, after hearing the submissions of both the parties, had reserved its judgment on December 15, 2020. The judgment is expected to have a significant impact on the stock market, the regulatory framework, and the corporate governance standards in India.

Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Invitation Cards for Consecration Ceremony Revealed

Ram Lalla idol is to be installed in Ayodhya on Jan 22, on Tuesday. (ANI Photo)

The invitation cards for the consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir have been unveiled, and they are a sight to behold. The cards are designed with a traditional and elegant look, and feature the images of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman, along with the model of the temple. The cards also have a QR code, which leads to a website where the guests can register and get more details about the event.

What is the Consecration Ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir?

The consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir is a historic and auspicious event, which marks the completion and inauguration of the temple, which is being built on the site where Lord Ram is believed to have been born. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 15, 2024, which coincides with the Makar Sankranti festival, which is considered to be a propitious day for new beginnings.

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The ceremony will involve the installation and worship of the idols of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman, in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, along with the performance of various rituals and prayers, such as the shodashopachara puja, the vedic chants, and the aarti. The ceremony will also witness the participation and presence of several dignitaries and devotees, who will offer their respects and blessings to the temple and the deities.

Who are the Guests Invited for the Consecration Ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir?

The guests invited for the consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir include the President of India, the Prime Minister of India, the Chief Justice of India, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, the Trustee of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, and the Chairman of the Ram Mandir Construction Committee, among others. The guests also include the representatives of various religious and social organizations, such as the Vishva Hindu Parishad, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the Akhil Bharatiya Sant Samiti, the Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas, and the Nirmohi Akhara, among others.

The guests will receive the invitation cards, which are printed in Hindi and English, and which have a special message from the Trustee of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, inviting them to join the celebration of the consecration of the temple, which is the culmination of the centuries-old faith and devotion of the Hindus. The guests will also receive a souvenir, which is a silver coin engraved with the image of Lord Ram and the temple, along with the words “Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir Nirman Samarpan Samaroh”.

How to Watch the Consecration Ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir?

The consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir will be broadcasted live on various TV channels and online platforms, such as Doordarshan, Aastha, Sanskar, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, among others. The viewers can watch the ceremony from the comfort of their homes, and join the joy and jubilation of the historic occasion. The viewers can also donate and contribute to the construction and maintenance of the temple, by visiting the official website of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, or by scanning the QR code on the invitation cards.

Day Trading Guide: 6 Stocks to Watch Out for on, Jan 3

The stock market is expected to witness some volatility and profit-booking on Wednesday, January 3, as the investors await the outcome of the US Senate runoff elections in Georgia, which will determine the balance of power in the US Congress. The market is also likely to react to the latest developments on the coronavirus pandemic, the vaccine rollout, and the economic data. Here are six stocks that you can buy or sell on Wednesday, based on the technical analysis and recommendations of the experts at HDFC Securities.

Buy: Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL)

RIL is one of the most valuable and diversified companies in India, with interests in oil and gas, telecom, retail, digital, and media sectors. The stock has been in an uptrend since March 2020, and has recently broken out of a consolidation phase, indicating a continuation of the bullish momentum. The stock has also crossed above its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, which are positive signals. The stock has a strong support at ₹1,900, and a resistance at ₹2,100. The experts suggest buying the stock at the current level, or on dips, with a stop loss at ₹1,880, and a target of ₹2,080.

Sell: Tata Motors Ltd

Tata Motors is one of the leading automobile manufacturers in India, with a presence in passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and electric vehicles segments. The stock has been in a downtrend since November 2020, and has recently broken below its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, indicating a bearish trend. The stock has also formed a lower top and lower bottom pattern, which is a negative sign. The stock has a strong resistance at ₹185, and a support at ₹160. The experts suggest selling the stock at the current level, or on rallies, with a stop loss at ₹188, and a target of ₹162.

Buy: HDFC Bank Ltd

HDFC Bank is one of the largest and most profitable private sector banks in India, with a strong presence in retail, corporate, and digital banking segments. The stock has been in an uptrend since March 2020, and has recently broken out of a flag pattern, indicating a bullish breakout. The stock has also crossed above its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, which are positive signals. The stock has a strong support at ₹1,400, and a resistance at ₹1,500. The experts suggest buying the stock at the current level, or on dips, with a stop loss at ₹1,380, and a target of ₹1,490.

Sell: Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL)

BHEL is one of the largest and oldest public sector engineering and manufacturing companies in India, with a presence in power, industrial, and transportation sectors. The stock has been in a downtrend since November 2020, and has recently broken below its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, indicating a bearish trend. The stock has also formed a lower top and lower bottom pattern, which is a negative sign. The stock has a strong resistance at ₹40, and a support at ₹32. The experts suggest selling the stock at the current level, or on rallies, with a stop loss at ₹41, and a target of ₹33.

Buy: Infosys Ltd

Infosys is one of the leading and most reputed IT services and consulting companies in India, with a global clientele and a diversified portfolio. The stock has been in an uptrend since March 2020, and has recently broken out of a triangle pattern, indicating a bullish breakout. The stock has also crossed above its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, which are positive signals. The stock has a strong support at ₹1,150, and a resistance at ₹1,250. The experts suggest buying the stock at the current level, or on dips, with a stop loss at ₹1,130, and a target of ₹1,240.

Sell: Hindalco Industries Ltd

Hindalco is one of the largest and most integrated aluminium and copper producers in India, with a presence in mining, refining, smelting, and downstream sectors. The stock has been in a downtrend since November 2020, and has recently broken below its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, indicating a bearish trend. The stock has also formed a lower top and lower bottom pattern, which is a negative sign. The stock has a strong resistance at ₹240, and a support at ₹210. The experts suggest selling the stock at the current level, or on rallies, with a stop loss at ₹245, and a target of ₹215.

Your Daily Horoscope for January 3, 2024: What the Stars Have in Store for You

The new year is in full swing, and with it comes a fresh set of horoscope predictions for each zodiac sign. Whether you’re a fiery Aries or a cool and collected Capricorn, the stars have something special in store for you on January 3rd.

Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius):

  • Aries: Channel your inner go-getter today, Aries. The stars are aligned for an active lifestyle, so get out there and move your body! Just be mindful of potential travel delays.
  • Leo: Your charisma is on fire, Leo! Use your natural leadership skills to make a positive impact on those around you. But remember, don’t let your pride get in the way of collaboration.
  • Sagittarius: Adventure awaits, Sagittarius! Embrace your spontaneous side and explore new possibilities. Just be sure to pack your sense of humor, because unexpected twists and turns are likely.

Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn):

  • Taurus: Keep your eyes peeled for opportunities to grow your wealth, Taurus. But be cautious with investments and avoid any risky ventures. Slow and steady wins the race!
  • Virgo: Your meticulous attention to detail will be your superpower today, Virgo. Use your analytical skills to solve problems and impress your colleagues. Just don’t get bogged down in the minutiae.
  • Capricorn: Hard work and dedication are your keys to success, Capricorn. Channel your unwavering ambition and you’ll achieve great things. But remember to take some time for yourself to relax and recharge.

Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius):

  • Gemini: Shake off the cobwebs, Gemini! The stars are urging you to break out of your comfort zone and try something new. You might just surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.
  • Libra: Your diplomatic skills are in high demand today, Libra. Use your charm and sense of fairness to mediate any conflicts and bring people together. Just avoid getting caught in the middle of gossip.
  • Aquarius: Your innovative spirit is shining bright, Aquarius! Use your unique perspective to come up with creative solutions and inspire others. Just be careful not to alienate anyone with your unconventional ideas.

Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces):

  • Cancer: Your intuition is your guiding light today, Cancer. Trust your gut feeling and you’ll make the right decisions. Just be careful not to let your emotions cloud your judgment.
  • Scorpio: Your passionate nature is amplified today, Scorpio. Use your intensity to pursue your goals with laser focus. But remember, a little bit of vulnerability can go a long way.
  • Pisces: Your creativity is flowing freely, Pisces! Let your imagination run wild and express yourself through art, music, or whatever inspires you. Just don’t get lost in your daydreams and forget about your responsibilities.

Remember, these are just general predictions. The specific events of your day will be influenced by your unique astrological chart and the choices you make. So, stay positive, embrace the opportunities that come your way, and make the most of January 3rd!

How to Protect Yourself from UPI Fraud: Tips and Tricks

UPI, or Unified Payments Interface, is a popular and convenient way of making digital payments in India. It allows you to transfer money instantly from one bank account to another, using your mobile phone and a UPI app. However, UPI also comes with some risks and challenges, such as fraud, phishing, and hacking. In this article, we will share some tips and tricks on how to protect yourself from UPI fraud, and what to do if you become a victim of it.

What is UPI Fraud and How Does it Happen?

UPI fraud is a type of cybercrime, where fraudsters trick you into revealing your personal and banking details, such as your UPI PIN, OTP, or QR code, and use them to steal your money. UPI fraud can happen in various ways, such as:

  • Fraudsters may call or message you, pretending to be from your bank, UPI app, or a customer care service, and ask you to share your UPI PIN, OTP, or QR code, to verify your account, update your app, or resolve an issue. They may also send you a fake link or attachment, and ask you to click on it or download it, to install malware or spyware on your phone.
  • Fraudsters may also pose as sellers, buyers, or service providers, and ask you to pay them through UPI. They may send you a fake or modified QR code, or a request money link, and ask you to scan it or accept it, to complete the transaction. However, instead of paying them, you may end up paying someone else, or losing your money altogether.
  • Fraudsters may also hack into your phone, UPI app, or bank account, and access your UPI PIN, OTP, or QR code, without your knowledge or consent. They may then use them to make unauthorized transactions from your account, or to siphon off your money to another account.

How to Prevent UPI Fraud and Secure Your Account?

UPI fraud can be prevented and avoided, if you follow some simple and basic precautions and measures, such as:

  • Never share your UPI PIN, OTP, or QR code, with anyone, even if they claim to be from your bank, UPI app, or a customer care service. Remember that your UPI PIN, OTP, or QR code, are confidential and personal, and no one has the right or the need to ask for them.
  • Never click on any suspicious or unknown link or attachment, that you receive through SMS, email, or social media, even if they look genuine or official. Always verify the source and the authenticity of the link or attachment, before opening or downloading it.
  • Never scan or accept any QR code or request money link, that you receive from a stranger or an unverified person, even if they claim to be a seller, buyer, or service provider. Always check the details and the amount of the transaction, before confirming it.
  • Always use a trusted and secure UPI app, and keep it updated with the latest version and features. Also, use a strong and unique password for your UPI app, and change it regularly.
  • Always lock your phone with a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint, and do not leave it unattended or accessible to others. Also, enable the security and privacy settings on your phone and UPI app, such as notifications, alerts, and biometric authentication.
  • Always monitor your bank account and UPI app, and check your transaction history and balance, regularly. Also, report any suspicious or unauthorized transaction, to your bank or UPI app, immediately.

What to Do if You Fall Victim to UPI Fraud and Lose Your Money?

UPI fraud can be reported and resolved, if you act fast and follow some steps, such as:

  • If you realize that you have shared your UPI PIN, OTP, or QR code, with a fraudster, or that you have scanned or accepted a fake or modified QR code or request money link, then you should immediately change your UPI PIN, and block your UPI app or bank account, to prevent further transactions.
  • If you notice that your money has been deducted from your account, or that you have received a confirmation message or email, for a transaction that you did not make or authorize, then you should immediately contact your bank or UPI app, and inform them about the fraud. You should also lodge a complaint with the police, and provide them with the details and evidence of the fraud, such as the phone number, email address, or UPI ID of the fraudster, the date and time of the fraud, the amount and mode of the transaction, and the screenshot or copy of the message or email.
  • If you have lost your money due to UPI fraud, then you may be able to recover it, depending on the nature and extent of the fraud, and the response and cooperation of your bank or UPI app, and the police. You may also be able to claim compensation or insurance, if you have any, for the loss or damage caused by the fraud

Jeffrey Epstein List: Famous Names Linked to the Sex Trafficking Scandal?

The sex trafficking scandal involving the late financier Jeffrey Epstein has rocked the world, as it has exposed the dark and dirty secrets of some of the most powerful and influential people in politics, business, entertainment, and academia. Epstein, who was accused of sexually abusing and exploiting dozens of underage girls, was found dead in his jail cell in 2019, while awaiting trial. However, his alleged accomplices and associates are still under investigation and scrutiny, as more details and evidence emerge from the case.

One of the most controversial and awaited documents in the case is the Jeffrey Epstein list, which is a list of names and contact details of hundreds of people who were associated with Epstein and his network. The list was found in a black book that was seized by the FBI from Epstein’s mansion in 2015, and was later leaked online by a hacker. The list contains the names of some of the most prominent and famous figures in the world, such as former US presidents, British royals, Hollywood celebrities, business tycoons, and academic scholars.

Who Are the Expected Names on the Jeffrey Epstein List?

Image-Foxnews.com

While the Jeffrey Epstein list does not necessarily imply guilt or involvement in the sex trafficking scheme, it does raise questions and suspicions about the nature and extent of the relationship between Epstein and his contacts. Some of the expected names on the list are:

  • Bill Clinton: The former US president has been accused of flying on Epstein’s private jet, dubbed the “Lolita Express”, several times, and of visiting his private island, where many of the abuses allegedly took place. Clinton has denied having any close or improper relationship with Epstein, and has expressed regret for meeting him.
  • Prince Andrew: The British royal has been accused of having sex with one of Epstein’s victims, Virginia Giuffre, when she was 17 years old. Giuffre has also claimed that she was forced to have sex with other powerful men by Epstein and his former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently in jail facing sex trafficking charges. Prince Andrew has denied the allegations, and has stepped back from his public duties.
  • Donald Trump: The former US president has been accused of having a friendly and business relationship with Epstein, and of making inappropriate comments about his preference for young women. Trump has also been seen in photos and videos with Epstein and Maxwell, and has praised them in the past. Trump has denied having any involvement or knowledge of Epstein’s crimes, and has distanced himself from him.
  • Alan Dershowitz: The renowned lawyer and Harvard professor has been accused of being one of Epstein’s lawyers and enablers, and of having sex with Giuffre and other underage girls. Dershowitz has denied the accusations, and has sued Giuffre for defamation. He has also claimed that he has evidence to prove his innocence, and has called for the release of the Jeffrey Epstein list.
  • Les Wexner: The billionaire founder and former CEO of L Brands, which owns Victoria’s Secret and other fashion brands, has been accused of being one of Epstein’s closest and richest patrons, and of giving him access and influence over his businesses and models. Wexner has admitted that he had a personal and professional relationship with Epstein, but has denied any knowledge or involvement in his crimes. He has also accused Epstein of stealing millions of dollars from him, and has cut ties with him.

What Are the Highlights of the Jeffrey Epstein List?

The Jeffrey Epstein list is not only a source of curiosity and controversy, but also a potential evidence and clue for the ongoing investigations and lawsuits related to the sex trafficking scandal. Some of the highlights of the list are:

  • The list contains over 1,000 names and contact details, including phone numbers, email addresses, and home addresses, of people who were connected to Epstein and his network.
  • The list covers a wide range of categories and professions, such as politicians, royals, celebrities, businessmen, academics, journalists, lawyers, doctors, and philanthropists, among others.
  • The list also reveals the geographic and global reach of Epstein and his network, as it includes contacts from various countries and regions, such as the US, the UK, France, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the Caribbean, among others.
  • The list also shows the frequency and duration of the contact between Epstein and his associates, as it indicates the dates and times of the calls and messages, and the notes and remarks made by Epstein and his assistants.
  • The list also exposes the potential links and overlaps between Epstein and his network, and other scandals and controversies, such as the Panama Papers, the Mossad, and the Clinton Foundation, among others.

Hindu Petitioners Seek Supreme Court’s Intervention to Clean Gyanvapi Mosque Premises

The Gyanvapi Mosque case, which involves a dispute over the ownership and history of a religious site in Varanasi, has taken a new turn. The Hindu petitioners, who claim that the mosque was built on the ruins of a temple, have filed an application in the Supreme Court, seeking its permission to clean the wazukhana area of the mosque premises. The wazukhana area is where the Muslims perform ablutions before offering prayers. The Hindu petitioners allege that the wazukhana area is dirty and unhygienic, and poses a health risk to the visitors and the residents of the area.

What is the Gyanvapi Mosque Case?

The Gyanvapi Mosque case is a long-standing legal and religious dispute between the Hindus and the Muslims over a 2.77-acre plot of land in Varanasi, where the Gyanvapi Mosque stands. The Hindus claim that the mosque was built by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1669, after demolishing the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which was dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Muslims deny this allegation, and assert that the mosque was built on a vacant land, and that there is no evidence of a temple being destroyed.

The case has been pending in various courts since 1991, when the Hindu petitioners filed a suit in the civil court, seeking the restoration of the temple. The case was stayed by the Allahabad High Court in 1998, on the grounds that it was barred by the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits any change in the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947. However, in 2019, the Supreme Court, while delivering the verdict in the Ayodhya case, which was also a dispute over a mosque-temple site, held that the Places of Worship Act does not apply to suits that were already pending before the enactment of the Act. This paved the way for the revival of the Gyanvapi Mosque case, and the civil court ordered a survey of the site by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in April 2021. The order was challenged by the Sunni Central Waqf Board, which is the custodian of the mosque, in the Allahabad High Court, which stayed the order in May 2021. The matter is still pending before the High Court.

Why Have the Hindu Petitioners Filed an Application in the Supreme Court?

The Hindu petitioners, who are represented by advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, have filed an application in the Supreme Court, seeking its permission to clean the wazukhana area of the mosque premises. The application states that the wazukhana area is in a filthy and unhygienic condition, and that it is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. The application also claims that the wazukhana area is a public nuisance, and that it violates the right to life and health of the visitors and the residents of the area, as guaranteed by Article 21 of the Constitution. The application further states that the Hindu petitioners are willing to bear the expenses of the cleaning, and that they do not intend to disturb the status quo of the mosque.

The application also cites the example of the Taj Mahal, which is a mausoleum and a mosque, and which is regularly cleaned and maintained by the ASI. The application argues that the Gyanvapi Mosque, which is also a historical and cultural monument, deserves the same treatment and care. The application also refers to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, which is a national campaign for cleanliness and sanitation, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014. The application appeals to the Supreme Court to intervene in the matter, and to issue appropriate directions to the authorities concerned, to ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of the wazukhana area of the mosque premises.

Tech giants Faces Antitrust Scrutiny and Sanctions in 2024

The year 2024 could be a decisive one for the big tech companies, such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft, as they face a wave of antitrust rulings and regulations in various countries and regions. The big tech companies have been accused of abusing their market dominance and engaging in unfair and anti-competitive practices, such as stifling innovation, harming consumers, and violating privacy. As a result, they have attracted the attention and action of regulators, lawmakers, and courts, who are determined to curb their power and influence.

What are the Antitrust Cases and Investigations Against Big Tech?

The big tech companies are facing multiple antitrust cases and investigations in different jurisdictions, such as the US, the EU, the UK, India, Australia, and China. Some of the major cases and investigations are:

  • The US Department of Justice (DOJ) and several state attorneys general have filed lawsuits against Google, alleging that it has monopolized the online search and advertising markets, and has harmed competitors and consumers. The DOJ has also launched a probe into Apple’s App Store policies, and is reportedly preparing a case against Facebook for its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp.
  • The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and several state attorneys general have filed lawsuits against Facebook, alleging that it has maintained a social networking monopoly, and has prevented competition and innovation. The FTC has also opened an inquiry into Amazon’s online retail practices, and is reportedly investigating Apple for its App Store policies.
  • The European Commission (EC) has fined Google more than €8 billion in three separate cases, for abusing its dominance in online search, advertising, and mobile operating systems. The EC has also opened formal investigations into Amazon, Apple, and Facebook, for various antitrust violations, such as favoring their own services, restricting third-party access, and collecting and using data unfairly.
  • The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched investigations into Google and Facebook, for their dominance and conduct in the online advertising market. The CMA has also announced plans to establish a new Digital Markets Unit, which will oversee and regulate the big tech companies, and enforce a code of conduct to ensure fair and competitive digital markets.
  • The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has initiated probes into Google, Amazon, and Facebook, for their alleged abuse of market power and anti-competitive practices, such as imposing unfair terms, discriminating against rivals, and exploiting user data.
  • The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has taken legal action against Google and Facebook, for misleading consumers about their data collection and usage, and for breaching the consumer law. The ACCC has also proposed a new law that would require the big tech companies to pay news publishers for their content, and to comply with a mandatory code of conduct to ensure fair and transparent digital markets.
  • The Chinese government has cracked down on the big tech companies, such as Alibaba, Tencent, and ByteDance, for their alleged monopolistic and predatory behavior, such as engaging in exclusive deals, blocking rivals, and abusing user data. The Chinese authorities have imposed fines, suspended operations, and launched investigations into the big tech companies, and have also introduced new antitrust rules and guidelines to regulate the digital economy.

What are the Implications and Outcomes of the Antitrust Actions Against Big Tech?

The antitrust actions against the big tech companies could have significant implications and outcomes for the digital economy and society, such as:

  • The big tech companies could face hefty fines, penalties, and sanctions, which could affect their revenues, profits, and market value. They could also face restrictions, injunctions, and remedies, which could limit their operations, activities, and expansion plans. They could also face structural or behavioral changes, such as divestitures, breakups, or interoperability requirements, which could alter their business models, strategies, and competitive advantages.
  • The antitrust actions could also create opportunities and challenges for the competitors, consumers, and regulators of the big tech companies. The competitors could benefit from a more level playing field, and could gain more market share, innovation, and growth. The consumers could benefit from more choice, quality, and affordability, and could also enjoy more privacy, security, and rights. The regulators could face more pressure and responsibility, and could also face more resistance and litigation, from the big tech companies and their allies.
  • The antitrust actions could also have broader implications and outcomes for the global digital landscape, such as affecting the balance of power, the standards and norms, and the cooperation and conflict, among the different countries and regions. The antitrust actions could also influence the future of the internet, the digital platforms, and the digital services, and could shape the values and principles that govern the digital world.
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