BJP Slams Kharge Over ‘Murmu Mafia', ‘Covid' Gaffe, Demands Apology on Tribal Insult, Cong Hits Back
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India Today
30 minutes ago
- India Today
Maharashtra language war: Is it with an eye on Mumbai municipal polls? Experts debate
The language controversy in Maharashtra has escalated, with Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers protesting and allegedly assaulting non-Marathi speakers in Mumbai suburbs. This comes ahead of crucial municipal elections, raising questions about whether this is a genuine fight for Marathi pride or a political strategy. The Thackeray cousins, Uddhav and Raj, have united on this issue, while the BJP denies accusations of imposing Hindi. The Congress and NCP have taken a cautious approach so far. Critics argue this may be more about control of the BMC's large budget than language issues. The controversy has sparked debates about cultural identity, language policy, and political opportunism in Maharashtra. The issue of Marathi language and identity has resurfaced in Maharashtra politics, with opposition parties uniting against a government order on Hindi language education. Shiv Sena UBT leader stated the party's commitment to promoting Marathi while respecting other languages. The NCP accused the government of failing to address public concerns and provide concrete solutions for Marathi language promotion. BJP faces criticism over comments by MP Nishikant Dubey. The debate has reignited discussions on Marathi pride ahead of BMC elections, with speculation about potential alliances between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray. The issue highlights ongoing tensions between regional identity and centralized education policies.


Time of India
30 minutes ago
- Time of India
‘Neither central nor state forces allowed in assembly'
1 2 Kolkata: The advocate general, in his submission to Calcutta High Court, on Tuesday denied BJP 's allegation of discrimination between central and state forces on the Bengal assembly precincts. AG Kishore Datta pleaded that neither central nor state forces were allowed as security to MLAs. "However, there are some policemen deployed in the House, without arms, on the directions of the high court," Datta said. He submitted that all other security personnel were made to wait in shelters. "The prayer made by the leader of opposition (Suvendu Adhikari) to allow central forces within the assembly precincts/House would result in an order of reverse discrimination," the AG said. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata Adhikari's counsel and BJP chief whip Jaydip Kar had earlier cited a notification issued by the assembly speaker on May 6, 2021, preventing central security forces accompanying BJP MLAs from entering the premises. The AG urged the court of Justice Amrita Sinha to consider whether a direction to the legislature presided over by the speaker, who enjoys certain privileges and immunity under Articles 178, 194, 208, 212 and Entry 13 of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, was preferable and how far the functions of the legislature could be brought under the purview of judicial review. Senior counsel for Adhikari, Billwadal Bhattacharya, held that the point of the matter was whether constitutional provisions could be suspended by issuing an administrative letter from the speaker's office. Justice Sinha adjourned the hearing till July 21.


India.com
an hour ago
- India.com
Trump's Tariff Bombshell: Who's Hit, What's At Stake And How Nations Are Reacting
Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on July 7 a firm deadline. August 1 marks the end of the tariff pause he first introduced in April. Fourteen nations received letters warning of new American import taxes if they fail to strike deals by then. White House officials confirmed to Al-Jazeera that tariffs announced on April 2 were suspended on April 9 for 90 days. They now resume August 1 under an executive order signed by Trump. The countries facing these renewed duties include Japan and South Korea at 25 percent each, South Africa at 30 percent, Laos and Myanmar at 40 percent and others with rates ranging from 25 percent to 40 percent. Some rates, according to Reuters, like those for Kazakhstan and Bangladesh are lower than what was originally planned, while Malaysia and Japan saw slight increases. Trump posted the full letters on Truth Social. He raised concerns about trade imbalances and offered exemptions for companies that shift production to the United States. He warned that any retaliatory tariffs by those nations could trigger even steeper U.S. rates. He also emphasised flexibility, promising to adjust rates 'upward or downward' depending on each country's relationship with America. The United States also issued a separate warning to BRICS nations, threatening an additional 10 percent tariff on countries aligning with anti‑American positions during the group's summit in Brazil. Some partners have reacted. Japan's Trade Minister said Tokyo will negotiate, especially on automobiles, but will protect its agricultural interests, according to Reuters. South Korea, as reported by announced steps to address the trade shortfall with America. South Africa expressed strong objections, calling the 30 percent tariff unjustified and promising to pursue more diplomatic resolutions. Markets responded with mixed signals on Monday. U.S. equities dipped slightly – Dow down nearly 1 percent, S&P 500 off by 0.8 percent and Nasdaq down 0.9 percent. Asian markets remained relatively stable. The Indian rupee strengthened slightly after India was excluded from the tariff list, while other Asian currencies held steady, Reuters reported. Two interim trade deals have already materialised. In May, a U.S.-U.K. agreement fixed a 10 percent tariff on initial U.K. vehicle exports, rising later to 25 percent. Then in early July, the United States reached terms with Vietnam, setting a minimum 20 percent U.S. tariff and a 40 percent charge on rerouted goods, Al-Jazeera reported. The looming deadline carries high stakes. Trump called it 'firm' but allowed for negotiation if leaders reach out with new proposals, according to Politico. Experts warn the strategy reflects his aggressive blend of negotiation through pressure and brinkmanship. Some commentators refer to this approach as the 'TACO' trade – Trump Always Chickens Out – highlighting his pattern of issuing threats and then delaying. Key dates to watch: July 9 was the original deadline, now superseded. July 14 ends the EU's suspension of retaliatory tariffs. August 1 is the new trigger date for U.S. measures. Negotiators in Washington suggest possible deals with India and the European Union could still emerge before that. But partners remain cautious. Stock markets jitter at any sign of prolonged trade tension.