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Pakistan: Deadly blast at Quetta Railway Station leaves 25 dead, 40 injured

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Pakistan Blast
Pakistan Blast

Pakistan: A devastating explosion rocked Quetta Railway Station on Saturday, killing at least 25 people and injuring 40 others in one of the deadliest attacks in the region this year. Among the casualties were 14 military personnel, according to Quetta’s Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations, Mohammad Baloch.

Blast at Quetta Railway Station in Pakistan

The blast occurred as the Peshawar-bound express train was preparing to depart. “The blast took place inside the railway station when the Peshawar-bound express was about to leave for its destination,” confirmed the senior police official.

CCTV footage captured the moment of the explosion, showing devastating scenes of destruction at the station’s main platform. The blast’s impact was so severe it ripped off the station’s roof, leaving bodies scattered across the platform and causing significant damage to railway infrastructure.

BLA takes responsibility for this deadly blast

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement, BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch said, “We claim responsibility for the blast at Quetta Railway Station. This morning, a fidayee attack was carried out on a Pakistani army unit at Quetta Railway Station as they were returning via the Jaffer Express after completing a course at the Infantry School. The attack was executed by the BLA’s fidayee unit, Majeed Brigade. Further details will soon be released to the media.”

The attack comes amid escalating violence in Pakistan, with the country facing increased terrorist activities in its northwestern regions and a growing separatist insurgency in the south.

Local authorities launch probe

Local authorities have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation into the explosion. Medical officials report that several of the injured remain in critical condition at local hospitals.

The incident marks another tragic chapter in the ongoing security challenges facing Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

Shalini Passi: The Delhi Diva Redefining Bollywood Wives

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Shalini Passi
Shalini Passi

Shalini Passi is no ordinary individual. The Delhi-based artist, art collector, and now a Netflix star, has carved out a unique niche for herself in the world of Indian high society and entertainment.

Shalini Passi – A statement of beauty, luxury and whatnot!

From her meticulously curated diet and skincare regimen to her palatial, museum-like Delhi mansion, everything about Passi exudes an air of distinction. But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of her story is the fact that she commissioned legendary Indian artist MF Husain to design her wedding cards.

Did MF Hussain design Shalini Passi’s wedding cards?

Shalini reveals that when her businessman-husband Sanjay Passi’s family approached Husain to design the wedding invitations, the maestro had one condition: he had to see the bride first.

“Husain sahab has been very close to my husband’s family. My husband’s family approached him to make the wedding cards, and he said, ‘First, I’ll see the girl, and then I’ll paint [the cards],'” Shalini tells India Today Digital.

After meeting Shalini, Husain was struck by the “Radha-Krishna jodi” he saw in the couple and proceeded to create a set of four beautiful wedding cards – one for the Mata Ki Chowki, one for the sangeet, one for the wedding, and one for the reception.

A Disciplined Diva: Shalini’s Meticulous Routine

Now 49 years old, Shalini Passi is determined to maintain her youthful appearance, going to great lengths to keep up with her “team of 20-somethings.” Her daily routine involves a shot of ghee in the morning, followed by a bevy of juices, goat curd, ragi chilla, and various soups at night.

To ensure her teeth remain healthy, Passi drinks everything, from chamomile tea to kala chana paani, through a straw. Her fitness regimen is equally disciplined, comprising one hour of dance, followed by an hour of Pilates and weight training, in addition to twice-daily meditation sessions.

Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives – A Netflix series

Shalini Passi’s unique lifestyle and her association with the legendary MF Husain have now landed her a spot on the Netflix show “Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives,” further cementing her status as a true Delhi diva.

With her unwavering dedication to health, beauty, and artistic pursuits, Shalini Passi is a testament to the idea that true glamour lies in the pursuit of excellence and the embrace of one’s individuality.

Bigg Boss 18: Shocking! Ektaa Kapoor slams Vivian Dsena at Shukarvar Ka Vaar

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Bigg Boss 18
Bigg Boss 18

Bigg Boss 18: The upcoming episodes of the popular reality show Bigg Boss 18 are set to be a treat for viewers, as they will witness a power-packed hosting duo stepping in for the show’s regular host, Salman Khan.

Bigg Boss 18: Ektaa Kapoor, Rohit Shetty at Shukarvar Ka Vaar

For the Shukarvar Ka Vaar segment on this Friday’s episode, the reins will be taken over by none other than the formidable Ektaa Kapoor, known for her candid and no-nonsense approach. The television mogul will be joining forces with Bollywood director Rohit Shetty, who will be making a special appearance as the co-host.

Ektaa Kapoor’s Blunt Confrontations

In the latest promo, viewers can expect high drama as Ektaa Kapoor takes centre stage and confronts several contestants, including Vivian Dsena, Rajat Dalal, and Chahat Pandey, over their behaviour inside the Bigg Boss house.

Addressing Vivian, whom she had originally launched on television, Ektaa expresses her disappointment, asking, “So what if you’ve worked for 10 years? Does that mean everyone in the house should put you on a pedestal?”

When Vivian tries to defend himself, Ektaa retorts sharply, “Then who are you trying to flaunt your success to?”

The television mogul then turns her attention to Rajat Dalal, the fitness trainer, reprimanding him for using physical dominance over Avinash Mishra. Ektaa labels Rajat’s behaviour as bullying, stating, “He (Avinash) may be smaller, but standing against him doesn’t make you some big shot.”

Rohit Shetty’s Special Appearance

Joining Ektaa Kapoor in the hosting duties will be the acclaimed Bollywood director Rohit Shetty, who is set to make a special appearance on the upcoming Weekend Ka Vaar episodes on November 8 and November 9.

Salman Khan, the regular host of Bigg Boss, is currently in Hyderabad filming for his upcoming movie, Sikandar, necessitating the temporary switch in hosting duties.

With the fiery Ektaa Kapoor and the charismatic Rohit Shetty taking the stage, viewers can expect an electrifying and entertaining weekend on Bigg Boss 18, as the two industry stalwarts bring their unique charm and perspectives to the show.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s last day at office: Here’s what he can do after…

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DY Chandrachud
DY Chandrachud

In a significant transition, the Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, is set to leave office on Sunday, November 10, 2024. He will be succeeded by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the current senior-most judge in the Supreme Court, who will become India’s 51st Chief Justice.

CJI DY Chandrachud to demit office today

Justice Khanna will take charge as the new CJI on Monday, November 11, 2024, following the retirement of Justice Chandrachud, who served in the top judicial position for nearly two years.

Upholding Justice and the Constitution

The role of the Chief Justice of India is central to upholding justice and safeguarding the Constitution. However, once their tenure ends, CJIs and other Supreme Court judges are prohibited from practising law in any Indian court, according to Article 124(7) of the Constitution. This restriction reflects important ethical considerations, ensuring judges maintain impartiality even beyond their tenure.

Preserving Judicial Independence and Integrity

The ban on post-retirement practice has a strong ethical foundation, aimed at preserving public confidence in the judiciary’s independence and integrity. The judiciary is a pillar of democracy, and its credibility relies on perceived and actual impartiality. Allowing a judge to advocate after serving could raise suspicions about career-driven rulings during their tenure.

Key Reasons for the Ban

The restrictions on post-retirement practice serve several key purposes:

  • Avoiding Conflicts: By restricting post-retirement practice, the judiciary minimizes conflicts arising from potential biases.
  • Maintaining Judicial Dignity: Practicing law after retirement could undermine the authority and dignity of those who served at the Supreme Court level.
  • Preventing Undue Influence: Access to sensitive information while serving could create ethical concerns if used in subsequent legal cases.

Roles Retired CJIs and Judges Can Take Up

While they cannot practice law in the courts, retired CJIs and Supreme Court judges often find opportunities in various capacities, contributing to the legal field without contravening ethical standards. These include

  • Arbitration and Mediation: Retired justices often become arbitrators or mediators, where their expertise in resolving complex legal matters is valuable.
  • Commissions and Tribunals: Retired Supreme Court judges frequently head or join commissions such as the National Human Rights Commission or the National Green Tribunal.
  • Academic and Educational Contributions: Many retired judges share their knowledge by teaching at law schools, conducting lectures, or authoring publications.
  • Public Service: Retired judges may be appointed to constitutional roles, such as governors or members of governmental committees.

Criticism and Debate

However, critics argue that retired judges accepting roles in government bodies could create a perception of favouritism. For instance, former CJI Ranjan Gogoi’s nomination to the Rajya Sabha shortly after his retirement led to heated debates on whether such positions undermine judicial independence.

As Justice Sanjiv Khanna takes on the mantle of Chief Justice of India, the focus will be on upholding the judicial system’s integrity and ensuring a seamless transition of power within the Supreme Court.

Rahul Gandhi congratulates Donald Trump, Expresses confidence in India-US bonds

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Rahul Gandhi
Rahul Gandhi

In a congratulatory letter, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has lauded Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 US presidential election, expressing confidence that under his leadership, India and the United States will further deepen their cooperation on matters of mutual interest.

Rahul Gandhi congratulates Donald Trump

“I would like to congratulate you on your election as the 47th President of the United States of America. The people have placed their trust in your vision for the future,” Gandhi said in the letter dated November 7.

Highlighting the “historic friendship” between India and the US, rooted in their shared commitment to democratic values, the former Congress chief said, “Under your leadership, we are confident that our nations will further deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.”

A wish for a better India-US bonds: Rahul Gandhi

Gandhi also expressed hope that the two countries would continue to work towards expanding avenues and opportunities for both Indians and Americans.

“I wish you the very best during your second term as President of the United States of America,” the letter concluded.

Trump, 78, secured victory in the closely contested presidential race, defeating his Democratic rival Kamala Harris. The Republican leader previously served as the 45th President of the US after his first triumph in 2016.

Rahul Gandhi’s letter underscores the importance India places on its strategic partnership with the United States and the expectation of continued progress in bilateral ties under the leadership of President Donald Trump.

Supreme Court overrules Decades-Old Judgment on AMU’s Minority Status

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AMU
AMU

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court, by a 4:3 majority, has overturned its 1967 decision that had denied Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) the claim to minority status. However, the top court has said that the issue of whether AMU is a minority institution will now be decided by a separate three-judge bench.

Supreme Court overrules judgement on AMU’s minority status

The 1967 Supreme Court judgment in Azeez Basha vs Union Of India had held that AMU could not claim minority status, as it was established by a statute. On Friday, the court’s majority verdict ruled that an institution would not lose its minority status merely because the government brought a law to regulate or govern it.

“Merely because the AMU was incorporated by imperial legislation would not mean that it was not established by a minority. It cannot be argued that the university was established by Parliament merely because the statute says it was passed to establish the university,” the majority judgment said.

The majority opinion, pronounced by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud on his last working day, was concurred by Justices Sanjiv Khanna, JB Pardiwala, and Manoj Misra. Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta, and SC Sharma dissented.

Determining the Minority Status of AMU?

To determine whether an institution is a minority institution, the court said it needs to consider the genesis of the institute and who was behind its establishment.

“The court has to consider the genesis of the institute and the court must see who was the brain behind the establishment of the institution. It has to be seen who got funds for the land and if the minority community helped,” the court explained.

However, the majority verdict clarified that the administration of the institution by non-minority members would not take away its minority character.

“To be a minority institution, it only had to be established by the minority and not necessarily be administered by the minority members. Minority institutions may wish to emphasise secular education and for that, minority members are not needed in administration,” the court ruled.

Dissenting Opinions of the Supreme Court

In the dissenting verdict, Justice Surya Kant said a minority can establish an institute under Article 30, but it needed to be recognized by a statute and also recognized by the University Grants Commission, a statutory body under the Education Ministry.

“The legislative intent behind a statute incorporating a university or institution would be necessary to decide its minority status,” Justice Kant said. Justice Dipankar Datta, in his verdict, held that AMU was not a minority institution.

Implications for AMU

The Supreme Court’s overruling of the 1967 judgment has set the stage for a separate three-judge bench to determine the minority status of AMU. A favourable[ verdict would allow the university to provide up to 50% reservation for Muslim students.

The reversal of the decades-old judgment is a significant development, as it could have far-reaching implications for the future of AMU and the rights of minority educational institutions in India. The decision underscores the evolving interpretation of the law and the judiciary’s role in upholding the constitutional principles of minority rights.

Toxic foam covers Yamuna River during Chhath Puja Celebrations in Delhi

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Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja

As devotees in Delhi gathered to celebrate the annual Chhath Puja festival, a disturbing sight unfolded on the banks of the Yamuna River. A viral video showed worshippers immersing themselves in the polluted river, their ritual bath and hair washing taking place amidst a thick layer of toxic foam.

Toxic foam covers Yamuna during Chhath Puja

The Chhath Puja festivities began on Tuesday with the ‘Nahay Khaye’ ritual, where devotees traditionally offer prayers in the river. However, this year, the Yamuna’s surface at the Kalindi Kunj area was covered in a concerning layer of foam, a stark reminder of the river’s ongoing pollution crisis.

“We want cleanliness at the ghat for Chhath Puja. If nothing happens, our only demand is that we will come here day after tomorrow to clean Chhath Ghats,” said one of the devotees, as reported by news agency PTI.

What is Chhath Puja?

Chhath Puja is a significant festival celebrated in states such as Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, where the worship of the sun god is observed through a rigorous four-day routine. On the first day, devotees take a dip in a holy river, often bringing Ganges water home for rituals. The subsequent days involve fasting, preparing prasad, and offering prayers to the setting and rising sun.

The troubling scenes captured on video have raised health concerns for the devotees who continue their age-old traditions in the face of the Yamuna’s worsening pollution levels, highlighting the urgent need for environmental interventions to protect the river and safeguard the well-being of the communities that depend on it.

OnePlus 13: What to Expect from the Upcoming Flagship Smartphone

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OnePlus 13
OnePlus 13

The OnePlus 13 has officially launched in China and is expected to hit global markets, including India, in early 2025. Although the exact launch date has not been confirmed, industry experts suggest the OnePlus 13 could debut around the same time as its predecessor, the OnePlus 12, which was unveiled in January 2024.

What to expect from OnePlus 13?

Refreshed Design:

• The OnePlus 13 features a refreshed design compared to the OnePlus 12, with subtle changes to the rear panel.

• The new model retains the familiar circular camera module, but the sides and screen are now flat instead of curved, giving it a slimmer look.

• The OnePlus 13 will be available in three colour options in China: Blue (leather), Obsidian (glass), and White (glass).

• The silver accent on the rear camera module and side frames provides a contrasting, premium look.

Display Improvements:

• The OnePlus 13 sports a display similar to the OnePlus 12, with a 6.82-inch panel and a 120Hz refresh rate.

• However, the new model introduces two key display enhancements:

  – Glove-friendly touch support, a much-needed feature for users in cold climates.

  – Local high refresh rate capability, which can dynamically adjust the refresh rate based on the content being displayed, such as 60Hz for videos and 120Hz for scrolling.

Powerful Performance:

• The OnePlus 13 is powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which is based on a power-efficient 3nm process.

• According to the company, users can expect a smoother and more enhanced performance experience, thanks to the new hardware and the latest OxygenOS 15 software.

Improved Battery Life:

• One of the major upgrades in the OnePlus 13 is the larger 6,000mAh battery, a significant increase from the 5,400mAh battery in the OnePlus 12.

• OnePlus claims the new battery will provide users with almost two days of usage on a single charge, though this claim is yet to be independently verified.

• The OnePlus 13 retains the 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging capabilities of its predecessor.

• Additionally, the new model introduces magnetic wireless charging, potentially allowing users to take advantage of a 100W magnetic power bank accessory.

Camera Enhancements:

• The OnePlus 13 maintains the 50MP primary camera from the OnePlus 12 but upgrades the telephoto and ultrawide lenses to 50MP sensors as well.

• The camera system continues to feature Hasselblad branding and offers 4K/60fps Dolby Vision video recording.

• The front-facing camera has been upgraded to a 32MP sensor.

• OnePlus has emphasized the camera’s low-light photography performance, though the true capabilities will be evaluated once the device is available for testing.

Water Resistance:

• While the OnePlus 13 is not fully waterproof, it does feature IP68 and IP69 ratings, protecting water submersion and high-pressure water jets.

• This means users can feel confident using the device in various weather conditions without worrying about water damage.

Biometric Security:

• The OnePlus 13 is equipped with an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which the company claims will provide accurate fingerprint registration and the ability to unlock the device with wet hands.

• The device also features a new vibration motor that is said to offer “gaming controller level feedback” for a more immersive user experience.

Software and Updates:

• The OnePlus 13 runs on OxygenOS 15, which is based on the latest Android 15 operating system.

• While the specific software update policy is yet to be confirmed, the company’s previous track record suggests the OnePlus 13 could receive four years of major Android OS updates and five years of security patches.

Overall, the OnePlus 13 appears to be a refinement of its predecessor, with a refreshed design, improved display features, and a more powerful hardware configuration. As the launch timeline approaches, tech enthusiasts and OnePlus fans in India eagerly await the official announcement and the opportunity to experience the latest flagship from the brand.

Ranveer, Deepika debut their baby Dua at Mumbai airport – WATCH

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Deepika
Deepika

Bollywood stars Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone made headlines today as they introduced their daughter, Dua Padukone Singh, to the public at Mumbai’s private airport. The family moment marked both baby Dua’s first public appearance and Padukone’s return to the spotlight since becoming a mother.

Ranveer and Deepika debut baby Dua at Mumbai airport

In touching scenes captured by photographers, Padukone was seen cradling her two-month-old daughter close to her chest as the couple navigated the airport terminal, accompanied by their parents.

“My duty to take care of the baby is at night, hence I am here,” Singh had previously told the media at the Singham Again trailer launch, explaining his wife’s absence from recent industry events.

Bollywood power couple welcomed daughter

The couple, who welcomed their daughter on September 8, has been balancing their professional commitments with parenthood. While Padukone promoted her upcoming sci-fi venture Kalki 2898 AD during her pregnancy, she has since shifted to focus on motherhood. Singh, meanwhile, has maintained his public appearances, including promotional duties for upcoming projects.

This milestone appearance is the latest chapter in the beloved couple’s journey, which has captured the public’s imagination since their 2018 wedding.

Indian-origin woman buys Matthew Perry’s LA house for $8.5 million, performs Puja

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Matthew Perry House
Matthew Perry House

Real estate developer and film producer Anita Verma-Lallian has just scooped up a little piece of Hollywood history – and she’s not shy about showing it off!

Lallian recently purchased the breathtaking Pacific Palisades home where the iconic Friends star Matthew Perry lived and tragically passed away in 2023. And let’s just say, this place is the stuff dreams are made of.

Indian-origin woman buys Matthew Perry’s LA house

In a delightful Instagram post, Lallian shared stunning pictures and a video tour of the $8.55 million property, gushing about how she “absolutely fell in love with the features” the moment she laid eyes on it. And the views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean? Well, that was the clincher.

“We knew it was ‘the one’ and decided to write an offer on it immediately,” Lallian beamed.

Lilian performs puja at her new house – WATCH

But lest you think this was just a real estate transaction, think again! Lallian made sure to perform a traditional Hindu puja, or blessing ceremony, in the home, emphasizing that the decision to purchase had nothing to do with the property’s previous owner.

“As a real estate developer myself, I believe every property has a history that we may or may not know about, and every home carries the energy that the current owner brings to it,” Lallian explained. “We chose to honour the positive aspects of the previous owner’s life, his immense talent, and all the joy he brought to so many people.”

And the best part? Lallian plans to keep the iconic Batman logo in the home’s pool, declaring, “The Batman logo in the pool is definitely staying.” Talk about embracing the property’s one-of-a-kind charm!

About late Matthew Perry LA House

Built-in 1965 on a 0.4-acre lot, the 3,500-square-foot home was recently renovated by Perry himself after he scooped it up for $6 million in 2020. But alas, the Friends star’s time in this “piece of paradise” was tragically cut short when he passed away last year at the age of 54 due to a lethal combination of ketamine and other factors.

Now, Lallian and her family are ready to write the next chapter in this home’s storied history, transforming it into the “perfect vacation home” they’ve always dreamed of. And with that killer Batman pool feature, we have a feeling they’re going to have a hard time getting their guests to ever leave!