Category: India

2024 Lok Sabha Elections | Will Amethi and Rae Bareli see the rise of Priyanka Gandhi as a dominant political figure

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s role as an organiser and strategist for the Congress party is pivotal. Media reports in the last one week projected that, by taking charge of the campaign in the Gandhi bastions of Rae Bareli and Amethi, Priyanka has emerged as a non-playing captain, steering the party’s efforts with a blend of familial legacy and political acumen.

Her campaigns involved a personal touch, sharing anecdotes from her family’s political journey, and connecting with voters on a grassroots level. An MSN report claimed that this approach is designed to counter the BJP’s narrative and leverage the Gandhi family’s historical connection with the constituencies.

Priyanka’s decision to not contest the elections herself is a calculated move to avoid reinforcing the BJP’s accusations of dynastic politics. Instead, she focuses on campaigning for other candidates, including her brother Rahul Gandhi and close family aide Kishori Lal Sharma, the report wrote. 

Her role extends beyond public appearances — she is the backroom strategist, working tirelessly to ensure the Congress party’s success in these crucial seats. The aim is to revitalise the party’s presence in Uttar Pradesh and challenge the BJP’s dominance.

Priyanka Gandhi’s organisational skills and her ability to mobilise the party machinery by blending the tradition and modern electoral strategies could be the Congress’s trump card in the 2024 elections. 

A Backroom Strategist 

As the political fervour ramps up for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, one notable absence from the fray is that of Priyanka Gandhi. Her decision not to contest has sparked widespread speculation and commentary. However, a closer look reveals a strategic masterstroke aimed at addressing a critical need within the Congress party — the need for an effective organisation builder.

Since Sonia Gandhi stepped back from day-to-day organisational planning, the Congress party has struggled to maintain a cohesive and strategic framework. The void left by her absence is palpable, and the party’s recent electoral performances have underscored this deficiency. Rahul Gandhi, despite his earnest efforts, has not been able to fill this gap. While his initiatives, including the two significant Yatras, were high on visibility, they were low on the ground-level organisational restructuring that the party desperately needs. His prominent position as the undeclared Prime Ministerial candidate has often overshadowed his organisational contributions, leading to a perception that he is more of a figurehead than a backroom strategist.

In this context, Priyanka Gandhi’s choice to forgo the electoral limelight emerges as a calculated and altruistic move. Despite her illustrious lineage, Priyanka has cultivated an image of selflessness, a politician committed to the party’s resurgence rather than personal aggrandisement. By opting to work behind the scenes, she positions herself as the anchor that the Congress party needs to steer through turbulent times.

Priyanka’s strategy is not just about optics; it’s about substance. She is focusing on rebuilding the party’s organisational structure from the ground up, fostering unity, and nurturing grassroots leadership. This approach ensures that the Congress party is not just preparing for the next election, but for a sustainable future. Her behind-the-scenes role allows her to campaign vigorously, mentor emerging leaders, and instil a sense of discipline and direction within the party ranks without the distractions of electoral ambitions.

In essence, Priyanka Gandhi’s decision is a testament to her vision for a revitalised Congress party. By stepping back from the electoral battlefield, she is stepping up as the organiser the party desperately needs, embodying a new paradigm of selfless leadership aimed at long-term rejuvenation rather than short-term gains.

 New Troubleshooter After Ahmed Patel 

In the political chessboard of India, the Congress party seems to be positioning Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as its Chanakya, a role previously adorned by the late Ahmed Patel. Her recent manoeuvres in Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh signal a strategic shift, potentially grooming her as the troubleshooter for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Gandhi’s intervention in Himachal Pradesh was timely and decisive. As the Congress faced internal strife, her diplomatic engagement was pivotal in maintaining the party’s governance in the state. This move showcased her crisis management skills and her ability to navigate complex party dynamics.

Her role in salvaging the Congress-SP alliance in Uttar Pradesh further cements her position as a key strategist. The seat-sharing stalemate was broken with her intervention, leading to a more favourable deal for Congress. This not only reflects her negotiation prowess but also her understanding of electoral maths and regional sensibilities.

Critical Amethi and Rae Bareli

However, recent reports suggest that Gandhi is not just a backroom strategist but also at the forefront of the Congress campaign in critical constituencies like Amethi and Raebareli. Her efforts aim at consolidating support and ensuring victories against formidable opponents. Despite opting out of the electoral race, she remains a star campaigner, extensively touring the country alongside her brother, Rahul Gandhi.

The Congress party’s strategy for the 2024 elections appears multi-pronged, with a focus on direct outreach and social media engagement. Priyanka Gandhi’s role in this strategy is crucial, as she brings a blend of emotional connection and political savvy to the table. Her presence on the campaign trail, sharing personal anecdotes and engaging with the electorate, adds a human touch to the Congress narrative.

As the elections approach, the question remains whether Priyanka Gandhi’s strategic acumen can translate into electoral success for the Congress. Her recent actions suggest that the party is banking on her abilities to navigate the turbulent waters of Indian politics and emerge victorious. Whether she will fulfil the role of a modern-day Chanakya and lead the party to triumph in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections is a narrative still unfolding.

Strategic Sidestep 

Priyanka Gandhi decision to not contest the 2024 Lok Sabha elections is a strategic sidestep that could redefine the Congress party’s narrative. Media reports suggest that Priyanka is cognizant of the optics that would emerge if she were to win a seat in Parliament, alongside her brother Rahul Gandhi and mother Sonia Gandhi, who is a Rajya Sabha MP. The potential concentration of the Gandhi family within the legislative houses could play into the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) longstanding critique of the Congress as a dynastic entity.

Aimed at dismantling the BJP’s narrative and avoiding giving them ammunition to reinforce allegations of nepotism, her choice to refrain from contesting is a tactical one. It is also a move that reflects a deeper understanding of the political landscape and the power of perception in shaping electoral outcomes. 

This decision could have significant implications for the Congress party. It allows the party to present a more collective leadership front, diluting the dynastic image and potentially attracting voters who are wary of family-centric politics. Moreover, it enables Priyanka to campaign more freely across the country, lending her charisma and political acumen to bolster the prospects of other Congress candidates.

In conclusion, Priyanka Gandhi’s absence from the electoral battleground is not a retreat but a repositioning. It is a calculated move that could help the Congress party navigate the complex currents of today’s politics and emerge with a narrative that transcends familial legacy, focusing instead on governance, policy, and national development.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Auto Wrap: Mercedes’ Maybach GLS 600, AMG S 63 and other top launches this week

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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As the new financial year has already started, just like other companies, automakers also tend to enter the market with a splash. A number of four-wheelers and two-wheelers are expected to go on sale this week, including the Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS and Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63. Here are the details of these high-end vehicles.

1. Maybach GLS 600: Coming with the automatic transmission, the facelifted version of the Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS SUV is expected to retain its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine with a 48V starter generator. Among other features, it includes power steering, automatic climate control, alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, an engine start-stop button, and others. The model also comes in both four and six-seat configurations. Priced at an estimate of Rs 3 crore, the SUV car is expected to be launched on May 22.

2. Mercedes AMG S 63: The upcoming AMG S 63 4MATIC+E Performance is expected to get an updated version of its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine. Also, comes a rear-axle-mounted asynchronous electric motor and a 13.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. With an electric motor and its battery, the car will offer an electric-only range of 33 km. Other features include AMG Ride Control + suspension, AMG Active Ride Control stabilisation, anti-roll bars, and rear-axle steering.

3. BMW X3 Shadow: BMW India in its launch has unveiled a new special edition of its SUV, the BMW X3 Shadow version. Priced at Rs 74.90 lakh (ex-showroom), the car is exclusively available in the xDrive20d M Sport trim. It comes with a lot of exterior features like a blacked-out kidney grille, high-gloss black window graphics and tailpipes, roof rails, and others. Under the hood, it is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine along with an eight-speed automatic Steptronic sport transmission.

4. TVS iQube: Expanding its portfolio to only electric scooters, TVS has launched iQube ST with a new base variant. The standard version comes with a 2.2kWh battery park and a lower price tag of Rs 94,999 (ex-showroom). Also, the version offers a claimed range of 75km and a top speed of 75kmph. The battery can be charged from 0-80 per cent in two hours.

5. Apache RTR 160 4V: TVS has launched its ‘Blaze of Black Dark Edition’ with Apache RTR 160 4V with completely black-painted body parts, including a blacked-out TVS logo. It has a 159.7cc four-valve, air/oil-cooled engine that produces 17.55PS at 8600rpm and 14.73Nm at 7250rpm. It is priced at Rs 1,24,870 (both ex-showroom, Delhi). TVS has also launched another variant i.e., Apache RTR 160 2V.

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World AIDS Vaccine Day 2024: Recognising steps made in research and efforts to fight the disease

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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World AIDS Vaccine Day, also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, is observed annually on May 18. The day is dedicated to recognising and promoting the need for AIDS vaccines. It also serves as an opportunity to show gratitude and honour the people such as doctors, scientists, and community members engaged in developing vaccines.

What is AIDS?

AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The disease was first reported in 1981 in the United States. If HIV is not treated on time, it can lead to AIDS, which occurs when the body’s immune system is badly damaged and is not able to fight other diseases and infections.

World AIDS Vaccine Day: History

The day commemorates the speech made by then-President Bill Clinton at Morgan State University on May 18, 1997, where he emphasised the importance of creating a vaccine to stop the spread of the epidemic.

Since then, the day has been observed globally to spread awareness about the disease and the need for its vaccine.

World AIDS Vaccine Day: Theme

Each year, a new theme is dedicated to World AIDS Vaccine Day. The theme for 2024 is not yet decided, but the day emphasises the need for innovative research, accelerated vaccine development, and protective measures to achieve the goal of an AIDS-free world.

In 2023, the theme was ‘Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,’ which focuses on combating the lack of awareness and urges people to take appropriate measures to detect the condition.

World AIDS Vaccine Day: Significance

The significance of World AIDS Vaccine Day lies in its role in recognising the steps made in AIDS research and the importance of continued efforts to fight against AIDS. The day serves as a reminder of the global commitment required to develop a vaccine that can prevent infections and lead to the eradication of the disease.

The day also honours those working hard day and night towards the development of an effective AIDS vaccine and raises awareness about the ongoing efforts in prevention.

Several organisations and governments organise different programmes and events on this day to spread awareness about the disease and its prevention and control.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

IF review: A charming, delightful plea to hold on to wide-eyed wonder

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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As we experience the world around us crumble bit by bit one depressing headline and shouty news-hour rant at a time, John Krasinski’s new live-action animation fantasy invites us to escape into a safe space of rich, unbridled imagination.

 Written and directed by Krasinski, the movie ‘IF’ is a tender, glorious exploration of the vivid, wonderous worlds that children create out of thin air and comfortably inhabit for years until adulthood comes knocking and sucks all the color and joy out of their iridescent lives. It is the story of Bea (Cailey Fleming), a 12-year-old girl who is grief-stricken over her mother’s death and is now mortified at the prospect of experiencing loss again as her father (play by Krasinski) undergoes a major surgery.

Just when she fears she might lose grip over the real, a new, fantastical world opens up to her, full of Imaginary Friends, the inseparable companions that every child conjures up while growing up. Krasinski has summoned a dream cast to voice these delightful characters now all begrudgingly biding their time at the Memory Lane Retirement Community underneath Coney Island since their once child-companions have long become adults who have outgrown and forgotten them and therefore can’t see them anymore.

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It’s a charming bunch. There’s the big, furry, purple goofball Blue (voiced by a superlative Steve Carell), a retro butterfly (an unmistakable Phoebe Waller-Bridge), a sage, elderly teddy (Louis Gossett Jr.), a disgruntled glass of ice water (Bradley Cooper), a giant candy bear (Amy Schumer), an elfin unicorn (Emily Blunt), and a flower who moderates therapy sessions (Matt Damon). Huddled in the mix somewhere in there you will also find a robot from Radio Shack (Jon Stewart), a free-floating astronaut (George Clooney), a pink alligator (Maya Rudolph), a superhero dog (Sam Rockwell), a cat wearing an octopus costume (Blake Lively), and a soap bubble (Awkwafina). It is a full house teeming with IFs yearning to find meaning and be of use again. 

At the helm is Calvin (Ryan Reynolds), who has taken it upon himself to find every IF a new child through his matchmaking agency. But they soon discover that each IF is uniquely suited to and mirrors the specific personality of the child that conjures them up. They, therefore, cannot be matched with anyone else. It is then that Bea partners up with Cal and suggests they be reunited with their now-adult partners instead who need their company and reassuring presence more than ever.

It could be because his character needs to be ambiguous for a large part of the 104-minute film, but Reynolds gives a fledgling, half-convincing performance. It’s Bea’s time with her parents captured through a sunny montage, the kind that is often marked by impending doom, and then later her hospitalized yet life-affirming father, that truly anchors IF. Watch out for the Paramount logo that the movie opens with. It’s so beautifully and thoughtfully done that it will transport you to the place you always find yourself when you think of home, love, light, and abundance.

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IF is not just an acronym for Imaginary Friends. It’s also a play on the infinite possibilities that open up with the simple question ‘What if?’ What if we unburden our hearts of adulthood’s trappings and let it open again? What if we don’t have to be lonely? What if we can all have a devoted companion who can always be with us transcending the constraints of time and space, helping us smoothly tide through the worst of life’s trials? You can label IF as fantastical, like Kiran Rao’s recent Laapataa Ladies, but although it inhabits an entirely different universe, it is just as hopeful.

 It will also remind you of the wonderful Christopher Robin (Ewan McGregor in a winsome, philosophical Winnie-the-Pooh fable), the Toy Story films, and even last summer’s Barbie. And of course, your own set of IFs, real or imaginary, that have nurtured, healed you, and held your hand through this uneven, bumpy, fork-riddled road called life.

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

New Delhi records highest temperature of season, parts may reach 49 degrees in few days: Skymet

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

JEE Advanced 2024 admit cards for IIT Madras out today — how to download

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The Indian Institute of Technology, or IIT Madras, is all set to release the much-awaited Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced 2024 admit cards on Friday, May 17. Candidates who have registered themselves for the upcoming JEE Advanced 2024 can download their admit cards through the official website at jeeadv.ac.in.

The JEE Advanced 2024 admit cards will be out at 10 am on Friday, and the link will remain activated for download on the official website until 2.30 am on May 26.

IIT Madras will conduct the JEE Advanced 2024 exams on Sunday, May 26. While Paper 1 will be held from 9 am to noon, Paper 2 will be conducted from 2.30-5.30 pm.

Here’s how to download the JEE Advanced 2024 admit cards:

1.     Go to the official website of JEE Advanced at jeeadv.ac.in

2.     On the homepage, search for the ‘JEE Advanced 2024 Admit Card’ link and click on it.

3.     The login page will appear on the screen. Enter your credentials, like your registration number, date of birth, and mobile number.

4.     After logging in, the admit card will appear on the screen.

5.     Check the details and download a copy for future reference.

Students must bring their JEE Advanced 2024 hall tickets to the exam centre.

They must cross-check a few details on the admit card, such as JEE Main 2024 and JEE Advanced 2024 roll numbers, IIT Zone, centre code, status of disability, photograph, signature, name and address of the exam centre, date and timing of the exam, and further instructions.

In case students face any problems with the admit cards, they may contact the zonal chairperson, JEE Advanced 2024, at orgjee@iitm.ac.in.

While the exams will be held on May 26, a copy of the candidate’s responses will be available on the official website on May 31, 2024. Further, the online display of the provisional answer key will be done on June 2, and the results, along with the final answer key, will be out on June 9, 2024.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Supreme Court rules advertisers must submit ‘self declaration’ before ads are aired

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The Supreme Court has said the fundamental right to health encompasses the right of a consumer to be aware of the quality of products being offered by the manufacturers as well as service providers, advertisers and advertising agencies.

While taking a note of the dismal implementation of guidelines against misleading advertisements, a bench of justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah observed that henceforth, before an advertisement is printed/aired/displayed, a ‘self declaration’ will have to be submitted by the advertiser or the advertising agency on the lines contemplated in Rule 7 of the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994, Live Law reported.

The top court’s order was passed in Patanjali’s misleading ads case on May 7. A copy of the order was uploaded recently, wherein the Supreme Court has made certain observations regarding the customers’ rights.

It further noted that the declaration should state that the advertisement complies with the Advertising Code that are provided under the Cable Television Networks Rules.

This self-declaration shall be later uploaded by the advertiser or advertising agency on the Broadcast Sewa Portal, which is run under the aegis of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. For the advertisements in the press/print media/internet, the concerned ministry has been asked to create a dedicated portal within four weeks from May 7, the report added.

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As per the court order, no advertisements shall be permitted to be run on the relevant channels or in the print media/internet if the self-declaration is not uploaded on the portal once it is activated.

These directions “shall be treated as the law declared by this Court under Article 141 of the Constitution of India,” it stated.

While commenting on the responsibility of celebrities and influences while endorsing these products via advertisements, the Supreme Court bench observed, “We are of the firm view that advertisers/advertising agencies and endorsers are equally responsible for issuing false and misleading advertisements.”

Since these endorsements go a long way in promoting a product, the court noted that it is “imperative for them to act with a sense of responsibility when endorsing any product and take responsibility.”

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The Supreme Court was hearing a petition filed by Indian Medical Association (IMA) seeking regulation of the alleged misleading medical advertisements published by Patanjali Ayurved Ltd.

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

ED files chargesheet against Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi Excise Policy case

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has formally charged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in a high-profile money laundering case related to the controversial Delhi excise policy. The prosecution complaint (chargesheet) was filed in the Rouse Avenue Court on Friday, May 17.

This marks the eighth prosecution complaint in the ongoing investigation. The ED’s case is rooted in allegations of a criminal conspiracy to manipulate the Delhi Excise Policy of 2021-22 for the benefit of certain liquor sellers. Key figures accused alongside Kejriwal include former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and other AAP leaders.

The ED’s investigation, which began following a complaint from Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena and a subsequent CBI case in 2022, has previously named several high-profile individuals. On May 10, the ED filed its seventh chargesheet, accusing Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K. Kavitha and four others.

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 and detained in Tihar jail. He was later granted interim bail by the Supreme Court until June 1, allowing him to campaign for AAP in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Similarly, Kavitha was arrested on March 15 in Hyderabad for her alleged involvement in the case.

The ED alleges that AAP leaders orchestrated a scheme to benefit select liquor vendors from South India, who in return, funnelled part of their profits to the party. These funds were reportedly used to finance AAP’s campaign for the Goa Assembly elections.

The case involves charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code, with the ED conducting a parallel probe into the money laundering aspects. The developments have added a new layer of complexity to the political landscape, as the Lok Sabha elections continue across the country.

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

India issues advisory against fake job offers in Cambodia, Laos

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Amid rising cases of employment scams targeting Indian nationals, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued an advisory for those travelling to Laos and Cambodia for employment.

The ministry noted that fake agents are luring people with false promises. Further, it outlined the major risks associated with fraudulent job offers, while emphasising the need for caution.

“All Indian nationals who are travelling for jobs in Cambodia and the Southeast Asian region, are advised that there are many fake agents operating in the region, who along with agents in India, are luring people to scam companies, involved especially in cybercrimes,” the ministry said in its statement.

It further stated that anyone who is planning to take up a job in Cambodia should only do so via authorised agents approved by the Ministry of External Affairs of India.

“Job seekers can also approach the Embassy of India, Phnom Penh through e-mail id cons.phnompenh@mea.gov.in and yisa.phnompenh@mea.gov.in,” it noted.

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In recent times, there have been instances of Indian nationals being lured through these fraudulent methods.

It stated that people are being “lured for employment through Thailand in Lao People’s Democratic Republic — also known as Laos.”

As per the advisory, fraudulent employment opportunities are being advertised for posts such as ‘digital sales and marketing executives’ or ‘customer support service’ by dubious organisations that are involved in call centre scams and crypto currency fraud in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos.

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Such organisations have their agents based in various locations like Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore, and India.

They are recruiting Indian nationals by taking a simple interview and the typing test, while offering them high salaries as well as hotel bookings and return air tickets with visa facilitation.

Once recruited, these victims are “illegally taken across the border into Laos from Thailand and held captive to work in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos under harsh and restrictive conditions,” the statement said.

“At times, they are taken hostages by criminal syndicates indulging in illegal activities and forced to work in strenuous conditions under constant physical and mental torture,” it added.

Also, the ministry highlighted the visa process for these countries, stating that “visa on arrival in Thailand or Laos does not permit employment.” Further, it added that the authorities in Laos don’t issue work permits to people from India on such visas.

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Supreme Court seeks union govt’s stance on plea against marital rape exception in new criminal law

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The Supreme Court on Friday sought the Centre’s stand on a petition challenging the marital rape exception under the new criminal laws.

A bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud issued notice on the petition by the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) and said it would be listed for hearing in July along with other petitions seeking to criminalise marital rape.

“It is a constitutional issue. This will be live even after the new code,” the bench, also comprising Justice J B Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, said.

The top court had on January 16, 2023 sought the Centre’s response on certain petitions assailing the Indian Penal Code (IPC) provision which provides protection to a husband against prosecution for forcible sexual intercourse if the wife is an adult.

Under the exception given in Section 375 of the IPC, sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his wife, the wife not being minor, is not rape.

Even under the new law — Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), exception 2 to section 63 (rape) has clarified that “sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his own wife, the wife not being under eighteen years of age, is not rape”.

The newly enacted laws — the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and the Bharatiya Sakshya Act — that would completely overhaul the criminal justice system will come into effect from July 1.

Besides the exception under the BNS, AIDWA has also challenged in the Supreme Court the constitutionality of section 67 of the BNS, which prescribes imprisonment ranging from two to seven years for married men who rape their separated wives.

The plea, filed through lawyer Ruchira Goel, objected to the provision on the ground that the penalty is lower than the mandatory minimum 10-year sentence otherwise applicable in cases of rape.

It also assailed as unconstitutional section 221 of BNSS, which facilitates a “lenient regime” under section 67 by prohibiting a court from taking cognizance of the offence without “prima facie satisfaction of the facts which constitute the offence upon a complaint… by the wife”.

The petitioner emphasised that the marital rape exception violates Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution as it negates a married women’s consent to sex and perpetuates sexual and gender stereotypes about the subordination of a woman’s individuality.

“The impugned provisions, in pegging the legal status of a woman’s consent to her marital status, are manifestly arbitrary. There is no determining principle to justify the select deprivation of married women of a legal right to complain of the commission of the offence under Section 63 of the BNS by her husband,” the petition said.

It further stated that the protection of the “institution” of marriage as the “objective” to sustain the exception is wholly unjust and unfair.

The petition also stated that the marital rape exception is against Article 19(1)(a) and Article 21 of the Constitution because it takes away a married women’s rights to bodily integrity, decisional autonomy, and dignity.

“Given that this Hon’ble Court is seized of the matter insofar as it concerns the pari materia (in similar matter or when two provisions of two different statutes deal with the same subject) provisions of the BNS and BNSS as they were contained in the IPC and CrPC, it is prayed that this Hon’ble Court hear the instant case, which challenges provisions of the BNS and BNSS that constitute and secure the MRE (marital rape exception), respectively,” the plea said.

One of pending pleas in the Supreme Court has been filed in relation to the Delhi High Court’s split verdict of May 11, 2022 on the issue. This appeal has been filed by a woman, one of the petitioners before the Delhi High Court.

However, two HC judges — Justice Rajiv Shakdher and Justice C Hari Shankar — had concurred on granting a certificate of leave to appeal in the Supreme Court as the matter involved substantial questions of law which required a decision from the top court.

AIDWA was also one of the petitioners before the high court.

While Justice Shakdher, who headed the division bench, favoured striking down the marital rape exception for being “unconstitutional” and said it would be “tragic if a married woman’s call for justice is not heard even after 162 years” since the enactment of the IPC, Justice Shankar said the exception under the rape law is not “unconstitutional and was based on an intelligible differentia”.

Another plea has been filed by a man against the Karnataka High Court verdict which had paved the way for his prosecution for allegedly raping his wife.

The Karnataka High Court had on March 23, 2022 said exempting a husband from allegation of rape and unnatural sex with his wife runs against Article 14 (equality before law) of the Constitution.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow