Latest news with #TheNewIndianExpress
New Indian Express
9 hours ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
TNIE journalist conferred with Devrishi Narad Patrakar Samman
NEW DELHI: The Devrishi Narad Patrakar Samman 2025, one of the most esteemed recognitions in Indian journalism, was conferred on several outstanding journalists this year, including The New Indian Express (TNIE) Senior Assistant Editor Rajesh Kumar Thakur, on Friday. Based in Delhi, Thakur was recognised for his exceptional reportage across key beats such as politics, government policies, the BJP, PMO, RSS, Indian Railways, and the Rajya Sabha. His award-winning portfolio featured several high-impact stories, including the investigative series Operation Sindoor, his in-depth coverage of the Delhi Assembly elections, and notable reports like 'Dilli Ab AAP Ki Nahi' ('Delhi No Longer Yours, AAP') and 'Delhi to Get a woman CM' — stories that sparked wide readership and discussion for their sharp insights and timely revelations. Thakur's incisive journalism stood out among over 90 nominations received by the Indraprahstha Vishwa Samvad Kendra (IVSK) for this year's awards. Held annually since 2010, the awards celebrate excellence in journalism across diverse beats such as rural affairs, women's empowerment, politics, and governance. The award ceremony took place on Friday at the Constitution Club, New Delhi. Among the dignitaries present were Pradeep Joshi, Akhil Bharatiya Sah-Prachar Pramukh of the RSS, and Navneet Kumar Sahgal, IAS and Chairman of Prasar Bharati, along with other eminent personalities from media and governance. The winners were selected by a distinguished jury comprising veteran journalists and experts, underscoring the credibility and prestige of the honours.
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
India gets to test Bangladesh's nerve when they wanted desi chicken neck
India's decision to seek changes to the 1996 Ganga Water Sharing Treaty marks a watershed moment in South Asian geopolitics. With the treaty's renewal looming in 2026, New Delhi is signalling not just a recalibration of water-sharing priorities but also a deliberate test of Bangladesh's diplomatic mettle, especially at a time when Dhaka appears to be drifting strategically towards Beijing and Islamabad. A treaty under strain Signed during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's first term, the 1996 treaty brought a measure of stability to India-Bangladesh ties by setting clear guidelines for sharing the Ganga's waters during the dry season. It provided for alternating 10-day blocks from 11 March to 11 May, giving both countries 35,000 cusecs of water. For flows below 70,000 cusecs, the share was 50:50. When flows touched 70,000 to 75,000 cusecs, Bangladesh received 35,000. For anything above that, India took 40,000 and Bangladesh the rest. But that delicate balance is now under threat. According an Economic Times report, India is seeking an additional 30,000 to 35,000 cusecs during the same period to meet its own rising needs for irrigation, maintaining Kolkata Port, and powering hydroelectric projects. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like War Thunder - Register now for free and play against over 75 Million real Players War Thunder Play Now Undo Officials quoted by The New Indian Express said New Delhi is not inclined to extend the treaty as is. Instead, India is pushing for a shorter-term agreement, ten to fifteen years instead of thirty, to allow room for periodic revisions. 'Before Pahalgam, we were inclined to extend the treaty for another thirty years, but the situation changed drastically afterwards,' said a senior official at the Ministry of External Affairs to The New Indian Express. Live Events Water, power and precedent Bangladesh's vulnerabilities are stark. As a low-lying delta nation, it depends heavily on river systems flowing in from India. The World Bank estimates that agriculture contributes over 11 percent to its GDP and employs nearly 35 percent of its workforce. About 60.5 percent of its land is arable, leaving little scope for agricultural expansion. Bangladesh is effectively 'maxed out' on its agricultural footprint. This, therefore, amplifies dependence on efficient water-sharing frameworks. The result: a deep reliance on predictable water flows. The Ganga and Teesta rivers are lifelines, and any uncertainty over flows is a threat not just to farmers, but to food security and the broader economy. India's posture echoes its recent moves with Pakistan. Following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a pact that had endured since 1960. Coupled with Operation Sindoor, trade suspension, and the stalling of legal processes around the Kishanganga and Ratle hydropower projects, the message is clear: water is no longer off the table as a means of strategic deterrence. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently confirmed to The Times of India that the Indus treaty will not be restored. This shift has unnerved Dhaka. 'With the Ganga Treaty up for renewal next year, India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could cast doubts on its commitment to water-sharing with Bangladesh,' water expert Nutan Manmohan told The Sunday Guardian. Uttam Sinha of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, speaking to The Sunday Guardian, warned: 'While India has traditionally respected water-sharing arrangements with its lower riparian neighbours... the success of future negotiations will largely depend on the prevailing political climate.' The chicken neck irony For years, India's strategic unease has centred around the Siliguri Corridor, the narrow strip linking its mainland to the northeast. Often dubbed India's 'chicken neck', this corridor has been portrayed by some in Dhaka, including Bangladesh's interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, as a point of leverage. Yunus, during his four-day visit to Beijing, stirred controversy by referring to the region as 'landlocked' and Bangladesh as its 'only guardian of the ocean'. 'The seven states of India, the eastern part of India, are called the seven have no way to reach out to the ocean. For Bangladesh, as the only guardian of the ocean in the region, this could be a huge opportunity and an extension of the Chinese economy,' Yunus said, suggesting Bangladesh could act as a conduit for China into India's east. 'From Bangladesh, you can go anywhere you want. The ocean is our backyard,' Yunus declared. Now, the tables have turned. India controls water flow at the Farakka Barrage, just 10 km from the Bangladesh border. Dhaka baited New Delhi with its so-called maritime leverage; India is now returning the favour with its hydrological leverage. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma underlined Bangladesh's own vulnerabilities. 'First is the 80-kilometre North Bangladesh Corridor... Any disruption here can isolate Rangpur division. Second is the 28-kilometre Chittagong Corridor... the only direct link between Bangladesh's economic and political capitals,' Sarma posted on X. 'Bangladesh, like India, is embedded with two 'chicken necks'. I am only presenting geographical facts that some may tend to forget.' Transshipment fallout Further complicating matters is the political upheaval in Dhaka. Sheikh Hasina, long viewed as a reliable partner by Delhi, was ousted in mid-2024 after nearly two decades in power. Her replacement, Muhammad Yunus, who became the chief adviser of Bangladesh's interim government, has shifted the country's foreign policy posture, drawing it closer to China and Pakistan. On April 8 2025, India revoked Bangladesh's access to a key transshipment arrangement that had existed since 2020. The move effectively dismantled a key logistical arrangement that had been in place since June 2020, when India allowed Bangladeshi exporters to use its Land Customs Stations (LCSs) to move cargo to third countries such as Bhutan, Nepal and Myanmar via Indian ports and airports. Designed to lower logistics costs and boost export efficiency, particularly for Bangladesh's critical ready-made garments (RMG) industry, the arrangement had enabled Dhaka to piggyback on India's infrastructure for greater global market access. However, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) circular issued on April 8 rescinded this facilitation. While India's Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the move 'does not impact Bangladesh exports to Nepal or Bhutan transiting through Indian territory', the decision nonetheless disrupts a major trade lifeline for Dhaka. The fallout is immediate: increased shipping costs, longer delivery timelines, and reduced competitiveness, especially for air cargo routed through key hubs like Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. According to The Daily Star, for Bangladesh, which reported record exports of $50 billion in 2024, driven by an 8.3 percent annual growth in the RMG sector, a 10.44 percent rise in leather exports ($577.29 million), and a 16.32 percent jump in cotton-related goods ($319.06 million), the loss of transshipment privileges threatens to undercut hard-won gains in global trade. The China factor Dhaka's embrace of China is evident. During his visit to China, Yunus signed agreements on hydrological data-sharing for the Yarlung Zangbo–Jamuna (Brahmaputra) river system and launched FTA discussions. According to a joint statement released after official talks, Dhaka and Beijing also agreed to initiate discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) 'at an early date', signalling a potential economic alignment that could reshape regional trade dynamics. Talks were even held at the foreign secretary level between Pakistan and Bangladesh, an event nearly unthinkable a few years ago. A Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) was held in Dhaka, with Pakistan's Foreign Secretary, Amna Baloch, participating. Additionally, a trilateral meeting between Bangladesh, Pakistan and China was held on 19 June, further highlighting the efforts to foster regional cooperation. Of particular concern to India is the revival of the World War II-era Lalmonirhat air base, located 12 to 20 km from the Indian border and around 100 km from the Siliguri Corridor. According to The New Indian Express, Indian intelligence agencies view the development as a 'grey zone threat', citing its potential dual-use for both civilian and military purposes, including surveillance and logistics operations that could directly compromise India's strategic 'chicken neck'. Further escalating concerns, The Economic Times reports that Chinese officials have visited the Lalmonirhat site, fuelling speculation about Beijing's involvement in the base's potential redevelopment, an alarming prospect given its proximity to one of India's most sensitive and vital corridors. The persistent Teesta problem The Teesta River, which flows through both countries, remains a longstanding dispute. Only 121 km of its 414-km stretch lies in Bangladesh, yet it is the fourth-largest river for the country and vital for dry-season irrigation in the north. In 2011, a near-final agreement was stalled due to opposition from West Bengal's government. That vacuum gave China an opportunity to step in. As per The New Indian Express, China has committed USD 2.1 billion in loans, investments and grants to Bangladesh, with the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP) standing as a focal point in the bilateral relationship. India fears long-term infrastructure and intelligence encroachments in the sensitive north. The road ahead According to the Ministry of Jal Shakti, India and Bangladesh share 54 rivers. Article XII of the Ganga Treaty states it is 'renewable on the basis of mutual consent'. That clause has become India's pressure point. Whether India walks away entirely or simply rewrites it, the outcome will reflect how far Dhaka has drifted and how willing India is to assert control. India, as the upper riparian, holds the cards. Bangladesh, facing political flux and strategic overreach, is struggling to defend its interests. Water may be a shared resource, but in South Asia today, it is increasingly a solitary advantage for those who control its source.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Lijo Jose Pellissery responds to Joju George's allegation; shares proof of payment for 'Churuli' cameo
Picture Credit: Facebook Malayalam filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery shared a social media post following actor Joju George 's claims about unpaid dues for his cameo appearance in the 2021 film 'Churuli'. Taking to Facebook, the director issued a detailed statement along with payment receipts to clarify the matter and defend the film's production team. Joju George, in a recent interview with The New Indian Express, alleged that he was not compensated for his role in 'Churuli' and that the film was released on OTT without following the agreed-upon terms, including a theatrical release. Reacting to the controversy, Lijo wrote a note in Malayalam, saying, "To my dear Joju, this clarification is being issued considering the disappointment caused to our producer friends. " In his post, the filmmaker also provided a copy of the receipt as proof that Joju George was indeed paid for his three-day call sheet. Lijo made it clear that all necessary payments were made and that there was no miscommunication or deception involved during the shooting. He further elaborated that the film had received an 'A' certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which made the theatrical release a challenge. Due to this certification and an existing High Court order regarding the film's usage of explicit language, the makers had to opt for an OTT release. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Worst Home Items That People Own, Ranked CleverClassic Undo 'Churuli' eventually premiered on SonyLIV on November 19, 2021, after its initial screening at the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) in February 2021. Addressing Joju George's concern about not being informed about the film's language and content, Lijo wrote, "We do not recall misleading Joju at any point during the filming process. Thankan Chettan (his character) is someone who has a good understanding of this kind of language." He also added that despite the OTT release, the team is still open to a theatrical run for 'Churuli' when the right opportunity arises. Directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery and written by S. Hareesh, Churuli stars Vinay Forrt, Chemban Vinod Jose, Soubin Shahir , and Jaffar Idukki in lead roles, with Joju George in a cameo appearance.
New Indian Express
2 days ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Srinivasaraju's The Conscience Network archives young Indians in US during '70s
NEW DELHI: At a time when the American visa, its acceptance and possible denial, may scotch the 'American Dream' of aspiring Indians, journalist and The New Indian Express columnist Sugata Srinivasaraju's new book, The Conscience Network (Penguin), shows what some young Indians did with their time on American soil and its link with the Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi in the '70s. PhD students Ravi Chopra and Anand Kumar, and S R Hiremath, a Kannadiga who had become a top-notch corporate in the US, was part of a network that was activating the diaspora , at a time when it was just beginning to be influential, in order to save democracy. This they did through an organisation they founded: Indians for Democracy (IFD). The three were present at the book launch at the IIC on Wednesday. Marching, campaigning, pamphleteering – these young men who had grown up in the first decade of Independence were spreading the word about the dark days at home among US Congressmen and the US media at a time when many Indians back home were silent, defending the Emergency or currying favour with the government.
The Wire
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Wire
Odisha: Dalit Men Tortured Over False Accusation of Cow Smuggling; 9 Accused Arrested
New Delhi: Two Dalit men were brutally tortured in Odisha's Ganjam district over false accusations of cow smuggling. The victims were beaten up, half tonsured, allegedly forced to eat grass and drink drain water, The New Indian Express reported. The incident happened in broad daylight on Sunday (June 22) at Kharigumma village under Dharakote block. Eight men have been arrested, while a minor has been detained, in connection to the atrocity, according to Dharakote police. According to the report, the victims, Bulu Nayak (52) and Babul Nayak (43) of Singipur, had purchased a cow and two calves from Haripur for dowry for a family marriage ceremony and were carrying the cattle to their village on a tempo rickshaw when a group of locals intercepted them at Kharigumma. The group accused them of transporting cows illegally, snatched their mobile phones and cash. They reportedly demanded Rs 30,000 to release the animals. As the duo refused, the miscreants tied their limbs and brutally assaulted them. They took them to a local salon where their heads were partially shaved, then forced them to crawl for nearly two kilometres to Jahada village where they were allegedly forced to eat grass and consume drain water. A villager witnessing the incident informed a local leader who reached the spot to release them but demanded Rs 30,000 in return. The two victims somehow managed to escape from the spot and reached their village. They received preliminary treatment at a local hospital, and lodged a complaint with Dharakote police. However, the police were reportedly busy with VVIP duty that day, so the FIR was registered late in the night. Meanwhile, there was growing outrage regarding the incident. The next day, leaders of Dalit Mahasabha in Ganjam reached Singipur to hold a protest meeting and expressed concern over the rise in atrocities against dalits since the BJP came to power in the state. On Tuesday, Dalit Mahasabha in the district staged a demonstration near the revenue divisional commissioner's office demanding strong action against the accused. They also submitted a memorandum to chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The accused have been arrested under various sections of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023, and Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Niti Shekhar, DIG southern range, told news agency PTI that the accused will be produced before a court soon. Odisha Congress forms fact-finding team Odisha Congress has formed a five-member fact-finding team, led by Rama Chandra Kadam, leader of the Congress legislature party in the state assembly, to investigate the heinous incident. Leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi condemned the incident, saying such incidents were becoming common in BJP-ruled states. 'This incident is a mirror for those who claim that caste is no longer an issue. Every incident that tramples the dignity of Dalits is an attack on Baba Saheb's Constitution—a conspiracy against equality, justice, and humanity,' he said in a post on X. 'Such incidents are becoming common in BJP-ruled states because their politics is built on hatred and hierarchy. Atrocities against SCs, STs, and women have alarmingly increased, especially in Odisha,' he added, demanding strict punishment for the culprits. 'The country will run by the Constitution, not by Manusmriti,' he said. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also voiced concern over the brutal assault and described the incident as an "insult to Baba Saheb's Constitution and its high values of equality, justice and humanity".
