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India Today
09-06-2025
- Politics
- India Today
Pirzada Kasem Siddiqui appointed Trinamool Congress's General Secretary
Ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has appointed Pirzada Kasem Siddiqui of Furfura Sharif as the party's general secretary. The appointment is being seen as a strategic step by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to consolidate the Muslim vote bank and counter the growing influence of the Indian Secular Front (ISF).The decision carries considerable political weight, especially given the ISF's performance in the last Assembly elections. Before the previous polls, Pirzada Abbas Siddiqui of Furfura Sharif had launched the Indian Secular Front, which made a strong electoral debut. His brother, Naushad Siddiqui, won the Bhangar seat in South 24 Parganas- traditionally a TMC stronghold - marking a significant breach in the party's Muslim support then, the ISF has been steadily expanding its presence in several Muslim-majority areas beyond South 24 Parganas, raising concerns within the TMC about erosion of its traditional vote bank. In this context, West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee's move to bring Kasem Siddiqui into a prominent position within the party - without even a formal joining ceremony - is being seen as a strong signal of the importance the TMC places on retaining Muslim support. Kasem Siddiqui, a well-regarded figure in Furfura Sharif, is closely related to Abbas and Naushad Siddiqui. His influence in the religious and social fabric of the region is expected to help TMC reconnect with voters who may have drifted toward the ISF. The appointment also suggests that Kasem Siddiqui could be given a larger role in the upcoming Banerjee's outreach to Furfura Sharif has been evident in recent months. During Eid-ul-Fitr, she visited the religious site, where Kasem Siddiqui was seen alongside her. The two were also spotted together at an Iftar party in Kolkata's Park Circus area, fueling speculation about a deeper political alliance in the the ISF's Muslim voter base and its roots in the religiously significant Furfura Sharif in Hooghly district, the TMC appears to be bracing for a serious electoral challenge. With this appointment, the party is attempting to reclaim lost ground and prevent further fragmentation of the Muslim vote in the Reel


Saudi Gazette
07-06-2025
- Saudi Gazette
Prophet's Mosque hosts over 12 million worshippers in 2 weeks
Saudi Gazette Report MADINAH — The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque provided a comprehensive package of services to pilgrims during the pre-Hajj period, reflecting its continuous care for worshippers and visitors and its commitment to facilitating their worship in a safe and organized environment. According to recently released statistics, 12,914,153 worshippers visited the Prophet's Mosque between Dhul Qada 15 and Dhul Hijjah 1, with the Holy Rawdah receiving 666,580 visitors during the same timeframe. Beyond facilitating prayer, the authority extended a wide array of services to pilgrims. These included providing transportation services in the courtyards to 161,802 beneficiaries, distributing 301,802 Iftar meals to those fasting, and supplying 218,336 bottles of Zamzam water, with total Zamzam consumption reaching 3,360 tons. Environmental care and cleanliness were also paramount. Teams removed 312 tons of waste and used 41,675 liters of disinfectants and sterilizers throughout the mosque, with an additional 10,950 liters allocated for other facilities. To further enhance the spiritual ambiance, the mosque was perfumed with seven kilograms of incense and 39 liters of luxurious perfumes and oils. These extensive efforts reflect the profound care provided by the wise leadership to the Prophet's Mosque and are a key part of the approved operational plans for the Hajj season, aimed at delivering the finest services to pilgrims and ensuring their comfort and peace of mind during their visit.


India Today
06-06-2025
- Health
- India Today
Eid al-Adha 2025: 5 Guilt-Free Desserts You Can Make at Home
Eid al-Adha 2025: 5 Guilt-Free Desserts You Can Make at Home By; Kashmik Singh Chouhan This Eid al-Adha, enjoy traditional flavors with a healthy twist. Here are 5 desserts that combine taste, tradition, and nutrition—all made at home! Introduction These quick bites made with Medjool dates, almonds, pistachios, and a hint of cardamom are perfect for guilt-free snacking after Iftar or Eid lunch. & Nuts Energy Bites Use desiccated coconut, jaggery or honey, and almond milk for a healthier version of this festive classic. Bake for a chewy, caramelized flavor. Coconut Ladoo Use dates as a natural sweetener, low-fat milk, and add lots of roasted nuts and vermicelli. The taste? Just as indulgent—without the sugar spike. Sheer Khurma Rich in iron and calcium, ragi is slow-roasted with ghee, sweetened with jaggery, and flavored with cardamom. A perfect fusion of health and heritage. Halwa Figs are naturally sweet and fiber-rich. Fill them with crushed walnuts, a hint of saffron, and rose water. Chill and slice into bite-sized rolls—delightfully elegant and energy-boosting! Fig & Nut Rolls Even healthy desserts need moderation. Serve in small bowls, focus on mindful eating, and savor the richness of each bite. Eid is about balance and joy—not overindulgence. Control Is Key Use traditional serving trays, copper bowls, or glass jars. Garnish with edible rose petals, mint leaves, or chopped pistachios to add a festive vibe without adding calories! Creative with Presentation Celebrate Eid with heart, health, and homemade happiness. These desserts bring the joy of tradition and the gift of wellness. Share them, savor them—and may your Eid be as sweet as your sweets!


Indian Express
06-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Forty Years Ago: When India stood with Palestine
India Backs Palestine India and Egypt supported the Palestinians' struggle for a homeland and called for Israel's withdrawal from occupied Arab territories. This was among the major international issues on which PM Rajiv Gandhi and President Hosni Mubarak were in agreement at the talks they held soon after Gandhi's arrival in Cairo on a two-day official visit on the first leg of his four-nation tour. Speaking later at an Iftar banquet hosted by Mubarak, Gandhi said, 'We have consistently and uncompromisingly supported the Arab cause. We support the struggle of the Palestinian people led by the PLO as their sole representative.' Indira Murder Trial Additional Sessions Judge Mahesh Chandra dismissed an application by Kehar Singh, one of the three accused in the Indira Gandhi murder case, seeking open trial of the case. The judge, however, said he would 'not be averse or disinclined' to allowing public men, besides the press and the relations of the accused, to attend the proceedings in the Tihar jail, depending upon the space available. Amritsar Vigil Absolute calm prevailed in Punjab, Haryana and the Union Territory of Chandigarh today on the fifth day of the 'Operation Bluestar Week' being observed by the Akalis. No untoward incident was reported from any part of Punjab and the neighbouring states. 60 Tamils Killed At least 60 people were killed and more than 1,500 houses burnt when Sri Lankan security forces attacked a number of Tamil villages in the Muttur area near Trincomalee in the eastern province, reports reaching Colombo said. More than 6,000 people had been rendered homeless and sheltered in schools, temples and churches, the reports added.


Hans India
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
TN Chief Qazi Salahuddin Mohammed Ayub passes away, funeral today
Dr. Salahuddin Muhammed Ayub, the Chief Qazi to the Government of Tamil Nadu, passed away in Chennai due to age-related ailments. He was 84. His funeral will take place at 5 p.m. on Sunday at the historic Wallajah Mosque, also known as the Triplicane Big Mosque. A renowned scholar and respected figure in the Islamic community, Dr. Salahuddin held a Doctorate in Arabic Language and Literature. Prior to his appointment as Chief Qazi, he served as a professor of Arabic at New College, Chennai, where he earned admiration for his scholarship and dedication to teaching. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed deep sorrow over his passing. In a condolence message, Stalin said: 'Dr. Salahuddin Ayub was a respected scholar whose contributions to the welfare of the community were immense. He always showed personal affection towards me since my tenure as the MLA from Thousand Lights. Even during his illness, he remained committed and made it a point to attend Iftar events in which I participated. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Muslim community and to Tamil Nadu as a whole.' Prince of Arcot, Nawab Muhammed Abdul Ali, also expressed condolences, recalling his family's longstanding association with the late Chief Kazi. He described him as 'a great scholar and a humble man.' Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president K. Selvaperunthagai extended his sympathies to the bereaved family and the Muslim community through a message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). AIADMK general secretary and opposition leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami also posted his condolences on X, stating: 'I am deeply saddened by the passing of the Chief Qazi of the Tamil Nadu Government and an esteemed scholar who rendered invaluable service to both the Tamil and Islamic communities. His demise is a significant loss not just to the Islamic community but to all of Tamil Nadu. I pray for his soul to rest under the mercy and shade of the Almighty, and extend heartfelt sympathies to his family and to all our Muslim brothers and sisters.' TVK leader and Tamil superstar Vijay paid tribute on X, writing, 'Deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Tamil Nadu Government's Chief Qazi, Allama Mufti Dr. Muhammad Salahuddin Ayyubi Qadiri Azhari. He discharged his duties with integrity and righteousness. Despite being entitled to government privileges such as an official residence, a siren-equipped vehicle, and an office, he chose to decline all benefits and served with humility and sincerity.' In a press release, Nusrat Ali Khan, secretary of the Shia Sunni Unity Movement India, described the late Chief Qazi as 'an epitome of unity and a perfect example for the Muslim community.' Khan added that his services to the nation would be remembered and appreciated forever. Dr. Salahuddin Mohammed Ayub leaves behind a legacy of scholarship, humility, and service that will continue to inspire generations.