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Lok Sabha Debate LIVE: ‘Congress Can Never Erase Taint Of Emergency,’ Says PM Modi

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Lok Sabha Debate LIVE: ‘Congress Can Never Erase Taint Of Emergency,’ Says PM Modi



Parliament Winter Session, Constitution Debate in Lok Sabha Highlights: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing the Lok Sabha during a special debate on the Constitution, which completed 75 years on November 26.

He thanked crores of Indians and said the constitution makers didn’t believe that democracy was born in India in 1950. Instead, they believed in the thousands of years of heritage of the country. Modi also said that women had played a big role in the Constituent Assembly, Women were also at centre of every initiative of the government, he added.

The two-day special debate to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the adoption of India’s Constitution was initiated in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament, on Friday.

The first day of the debate witnessed heated exchanges between the ruling BJP-led NDA and the opposition’s Congress-led INDIA bloc, with Union Minister Rajnath Singh, MPs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mahua Moitra as a speaker among others.

A similar debate session is scheduled in Rajya Sabha on December 16 and 17. Top sources indicated that Home Minister Amit Shah is slated to open the discussion in the upper house of the Parliament on Monday.

It comes amid the ongoing standoff between the ruling BJP and opposition parties over several issues which has paralysed the normal functioning of both Houses since the start of the winter session, which is likely to conclude on December 20.

LIVE FEED

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Priyanka Likens PM’s Speech To ‘Double Maths Period’, Says It ‘Bored Us’

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday termed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s over 110-minutes speech in Lok Sabha boring and said it was like sitting through a “double period of mathematics” in school.

She also slammed PM Modi’s 11 resolutions as “hollow” and said if there is zero tolerance towards corruption why doesn’t the BJP agree to a discussion on the Adani issue.

Replying to queries on the prime minister’s speech, Gandhi told reporters, “The PM has not spoken one thing which is new. He has bored us. It took me to decades back. I felt like I am sitting in that double period of Mathematics.” “(JP) Nadda ji was also rubbing hands but as soon as Modi ji looked at him, he started acting as if he is listening attentively. Amit Shah also had his hand on head, (Piyush) Goyal ji was going off to sleep. It was a new experience for me. I had thought that the PM will say something new, something nice,” she said.

PM Modi Introduces 11 Resolutions, “In The Spirit Of The Constitutional Values” To Achieve A Viksit Bharat

PM Modi talks of some new pledges

  • Sabka Sath, sabka vikas (all round development by taking everyone together)
  • The corrupt should be socially boycotted
  • Indians should feel pride
  • Colonial mindset needs to be shed
  • The Nation’s politics need to freed from family-led politics
  • Constitution needs to be respected; shouldn’t be weaponised
  • By keeping the spirit of Constitution in mind, existing
  • India should become a model for other in women-led development
  • One India, Best India

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: All Political Parties Should Work To Bring In Fresh Blood With No Political Background, Says PM Modi

Speaking in Parliament, PM Modi says youngsters with no family ties to politics need to be brought in.

All political parties should work to bring in fresh blood with no political background, says PM Modi.

Says that’s why he mentioned this in his Red Fort address.

 

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: 80% Of Indians Were Deprived Of Clean Water, Says PM Modi

Speaking in Parliament, PM Modi says 80 per cent of Indians were deprived of clean water.

Questions if the Constitution prevented them from taking any action.

Says his government took action to provide clean water.

Says many people hadn’t even visited the doorsteps of banks.

Blames Congress for this.

Says 50 crore poor now have bank accounts.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ Is Not Mere Slogan, Says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his government’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” is not a mere slogan and cited the lifting of “25 crore” people out of poverty and infrastructure development in the northeastern states as the examples of inclusive growth.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: The Country’s Politics Needs Fresh Air, New Energy, Says PM Modi

“Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas is not just slogan for us. It is an article of faith for us,” PM Modi said during his speech.

“In the coming decades, we should reflect on the direction that our democracy should take. We should reflect on whether our democracy has been harmed by family-led politics. Should we not work towards reforming this?” Modi added.

“All political parties, whose foundation is not based on one family, should come together to uplift our youth. The country’s politics needs fresh air, new energy.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: ‘Garibi Hatao’ Was Biggest Jumla, Says PM Modi

PM Modi attacked the Congress saying that it adopted a favourite word — “jumla”.

“However, the country knows that the biggest jumla was run by one family for many generations. This was the ‘Garibi Hatao’ movement. “

“For the dignity of poor, it was my government that began with the construction of toilets under Swachh Bharat mission,” PM Modi added.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Hails BR Ambedkar’s Role

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed BR Ambedkar’s role in building the Constitution and attacked the Congress party for the alleged delay in building the Dr Ambedkar International Centre.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: My Government Has Made Changes To The Constitution Only To Unite The Country, Says PM Modi

“During the 90s, many Parliamentarians were caught taking bribes. For Congress, the hunger for power is their defining trait,” PM Modi said in his speech.

“After 2014, the constitution was strengthened. We strived to treat this ill society. We have also made changes to constitution, but that has only been to unite this country. It has been done only with the will of the people.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: When Congress Government Was Removed, Only Then OBCs Got Reservation, Says PM Modi

“People obsessed with vote-bank politics, even played around with reservation which eventually led to SC, ST and OBC people being disadvantaged in this country. Congress opposed the reservation initially, when Dr. Ambedkar asked for it. They disregarded the Mandal Commission report. When Congress government was removed, only then OBCs got reservation,” PM Modi said in his speech.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Strongly Advocates For UCC

PM Modi said, “I want to talk about UCC also…Samvidhan sbha knew about this also…they held discussion on UCC also…and made a decision that the govt which gets elected should implement it….and Ambedkar ji himself said that religious based personal laws should be dismantled

Munshi ji said that UCC is mandatory

SC has repeatedly said that UCC should come asap…they have ordered the govts

We are working hard for Secular Civil Code

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Attacked The Opposition On Reservation Issue

PM Modi attacked the opposition on reservation issue and said, “When Constitution was being written…there were discussions of religion based reservation….and this was decided that it cannot happen on the basis of religion….to save the unity of India….but Congress in greed of power….to appease the vote bank…they played this dangerous game of religion based reservation….now SC is teaching them…now they are making excuses.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Attacks Congress, Says ‘One Family Always Challenged Constitution’

PM Modi continued to attack the Congress and said, “In the next generation…citizen elects the govt….govt makes a cabinet and a egoistic man tore the cabinet decision in front of media….this habit of hurting constitution was deeply rooted…what is this system.”

Congress has disregarded the constitution at every step. People are aware of Article 370, but few are aware of Section 35A. They imposed this without even bringing it to the Parliament, which was kept in dark.”

“The Congress even held grudges against Dr. Ambedkar. When Atalji was in power, the government decided to honour him with a memorial, but the UPA ensured that the project does not go ahead. When we came to power in 2014, we ensured that the memorial is built on Alipore Road.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: The Constitution Has Been Tampered With Repeatedly, Says PM

PM Modi continued to attack the Congress and said, “They still did not stop….because they had tasted blood…next generation is still doing it….I am quoting a book now….Manmohan Singh was quoted in that…I have to agree that the party president is the center of power…that govt is answerable to the party.  This was the first time in history that constitution was hurt so bad….they appointed a illegal National advisory council above PM.”

 

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Leaders Of Several Political Parties Were Sent To Jail During Emergency, But Now Joined Hands With Congress, Says PM

Leaders of several political parties were sent to jail during Emergency, but it is their compulsion to join hands with Congress now, PM Modi said.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Rajiv Gandhi Disregarded Supreme Court’s Order Given In Favour Of Shah Bano, Says PM Modi

“This tradition did not stop here. Rajiv Gandhi disregarded Supreme Court’s order given in favour of Shah Bano, and he instead followed vote-bank politics,” PM Modi said.

“Because they had tasted blood…then Rajiv ji made another attack….he hurt the right to equality of our constitution…when SC delivered Shah Bano judgement…but Rajiv Gandhi declined the judgement….and due to his vote bank politics….and folded his hands in front of radicals….he stood by radicals. He made a law to overrule the SC judgement,” h added.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Nehru Followed His Own Constitution, Says PM Modi

Continuing his criticism of the Congress years, PM Modi said, “During that time, PM Nehru wrote to the CMs. He wrote that if the constitution becomes a hindrance for us, then we should bring change to it. This is what Nehru said!”

“We should also note that the country did not sit silently. The President and Speaker warned Mr. Nehru and tried to stop him. But Nehru followed his own constitution. Congress got addicted to this habit of tampering with the constitution and they repeated this again and again.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Evokes Emergency, Says Indira Gandhi Snatch Rights of Citizens

PM Modi further attacked the opposition Congress saying, “Rights of citizens were snatched…people were stuffed in jail….media was banned…judiciary was not allowed to function…and the justice HR Khanna who passed the judgement against her….when Justice was supposed to be the CJI was India…was not allowed to be made.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Indira Gandhi Snatched Away The Fundamental Rights, Says PM Modi

PM Modi took a swipe at Congress over Emergency imposition. He said, ” Congress loved this taste of hunting constitution and after that Congress did it repeatedly. They attacked Constitution again and again….it was changed 75 times. The sin which Pt Nehru committed….in 1971…after a SC verdict….Indira Gandhi changed the Constitution to overrule that judgement. Indira Gandhi snatched away the fundamental rights. They had tasted the blood…and that is why…when court dismissed her election and was ordered to vacate the MP post…she imposed emergency on the nation to save her chair.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: One Congress Family Changed Constitution To Attack Freedom Of Expression, Says PM Modi

PM Modi took a swipe at opposition and said, “I expected good debate on Constitution, but some decided to grieve their losses. One family of Congress left no stone unturned in hurting Constitution. One Congress family relentlessly pursuing wrong thoughts, wrong deeds and wrong policies. One Congress family changed Constitution to attack freedom of expression, it was insult to founders of Constitution.”

 

GST Played Big Role In Uniting India, Says PM Modi In Lok Sabha

PM Modi in Parliament says GST played big role in uniting India.

Acknowledges the role of the past government and says his government got an opportunity to further the process.

Talks about One Nation, One Tax and government health card.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Article 370 Was A Roadblock To Unity, Says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir as the roadblock to “national unity” and hailed the move to abrogate it.

“Our policies, decision-making process in last 10 years have been aimed at strengthening India’s unity,” said PM Modi

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: This (Gandhi) Family Has Always Challenged The Constitution, Says PM Modi

PM Modi took a veiled jibe at Gandhi family and said, “I do not want to criticize anybody personally….but one family of congress has done everything to hurt the constitution…and i say one family because one family has ruled for 55 years. This family has always challenged the Constitution.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Says It Could Not Have Possible For Him To Become PM If Constitution Was Not There

PM Modi said that it could not have possible for him to reach till here (become PM) if Constitution was not there.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: The Sin Of Emergency Can Never Be Erased From Congress’ Forehead, Says PM Modi

“The constitution is completing 75 years today, but if we are to look at the previous milestones. When the constitution was completing its 25 years, Emergency was imposed. Constitutional rights were denied, and the country was converted into a big jail,” PM Modi said.

“The sin of Emergency can never be erased from Congress’ forehead,” he added.

“When constitution turned 50, Atal Bihari Vajpayee was in power and the milestone was celebrated. I was also lucky to also become Gujarat’s Chief Minister in that year. I decided that time, that we will celebrate Constitution’s 60th anniversary.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Atal Bihar Vajpayee Govt Celebrated 50 Years Of Constitution

PM Modi said that when the Constitution completed 50 years…Vajpayee govt celebrated the event. “He said, “I also became CM when Constitution was celebrating 50 years….when it completed 60 years…I as CM of Gujarat celebrated the milestone by taking out a Gaurav Yatra with CM being on foot.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Evokes Emergency, Says When Constitution Completed 25 Years, It Was Destroyed

PM Modi said, we are completing 75 years of constitution…but when we were completing 25 years….the constitution was destroyed…emergency was declared…democratic institutions were dismantled…the whole country was turned into a jail….this sin cannot be washed from the forehead of congress….they murdered democracy…..

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Our Constitution Demands That We Serve Those Who Are Most Backward In Our Society, Says PM Modi

“During the previous government, the country used to be shamed for its lack of electricity. We remedied this by bringing about ‘One nation, One grid’. “ PM Modi said, adding that this sentiment of One Nation has also been extended to the area of infrastructure.

“Times have changed, and we have accordingly democratised technology as well. We have taken optical fibre to all panchyats.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: People With Slave Mindset Kept Finding Contradiction In Unity, Says PM Modi

“The problem is how to unite the diverse population of the country to make decisions,” PM Modi quoted BR Ambedkar in Lok Sabha.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: We Decided That There Should Be One Nation, One Health Card, Says PM Modi

PM Modi highlighted importance of Ayushman Bharat. He said, “When the poor gets free health cover….it enables him to fight poverty…but when he migrates in the search of work…we decided that there should be one nation…one health card….this is what we have done for country’s unity

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Country’s Unity Needed To Realise The Dream Of Viksit Bharat, Says PM Modi

“India will soon become the world’s third largest economy. When we celebrate 100 years of Independence, we will ensure that country becomes ‘Viksit Bharat’,” PM Modi said adding that what is crucial for this milestone is the country’s unity. He followed it up with a quote by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

“However, I must note with sadness that due to selfishness that the country’s unity has been attacked following independence. Those who grew up with slave mentality, searched for contradictions in diversity.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Constitution Is The Basis Of Our Unity, Says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Constitution as the basis of national unity and noted that the members of the Constituent Assembly came from diverse backgrounds.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Highlights Women Achievements

PM Modi hailed the achievements of women in every sector. He said, Today women are in the center of every big government scheme. During G20…we presented the idea of women led development. Today the Indian President is an adivasi women. Participation and contribution of women is increasing in every sector…including sectors like space.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Women’s Suggestions Had A Great Impact On The Constitution, Says PM

PM Modi hailed women’s participation in Constitution making. He said, “In Samvidhan Sabha..there were 15 women members. All these women came from different sectors…and the suggestions that they made had a great impact on the constitutiion….in many other countries….women had to wait for decades for the right to vote.”

There Was A Time When There Were Many Republics In India, Says PM modi

PM Narendra Modi quoted Dr Ambedkar saying that he himself said that it is not that India does not know about democracy…there was a time when there were many republics in India.

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: India’s Democratic History Has Been An Inspiration For The World, Says PM Modi

PM Narendra Modi said that India’s democratic history has been an inspiration for the world….that is why we are the mother of democracy

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Constitution Makers Knew All About The Great Heritage Of India, Says PM

PM Narendra Modi hailed the heritage of India, saying, “Our Constitution makers were aware that India was not born in 1947…they knew all about the great heritage of India.”

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: Achievements Of These 75 Years Are Unprecedented, Says PM Modi

PM Modi thanked all the MPs who have participated in the festivities to celebrate the 75 years of Constitution. He said that the achievements of these 75 years are unprecedented

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Hails India’s Democracy

PM Modi hails India’s democracy, says that the journey of Constitution has been memorable

Constitution Debate Lok Sabha LIVE: PM Modi Arrives In Lok Sabha Amid Chants Of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’

PM Modi arrived In Lok Sabha. He will reply on the ongoing debate on 75 years of Constitution.


Can Syria’s new leadership establish a legal system to ensure fair trials? | Syria’s War

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Can Syria’s new leadership establish a legal system to ensure fair trials? | Syria’s War


Syrians demand justice for crimes committed during the Assad regime.

Syria’s new administration is pledging accountability for crimes committed during the al-Assad family’s rule.

About 150,000 people were detained and forcibly disappeared since the crackdown on pro-democracy rallies in 2011 that set off the war.

Many are believed to have been killed. Those who survived bear physical or psychological scars.

Now, families of the victims are demanding justice. There is no shortage of evidence.

But can Syria’s new leadership establish a sound legal system to ensure fair trials? And what can the international community and the United Nations do to help?

Presenter: Bernard Smith

Guests:

Ibrahim Olabi – Barrister and board member of the Syrian British Consortium. He’s researched and advised extensively on international legal cases related to the conflict in Syria.

Roger Lu Phillips – Legal director of the Syria Justice and Accountability Centre, which documents violations of human rights and international law in Syria.

Kholoud Helmi – Syrian journalist and human rights activist. She’s a member of Families for Freedom, a movement of women whose relatives were detained and disappeared by the Assad regime.


Pharma market rebounds, asthma drug top seller

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Pharma market rebounds, asthma drug top seller


Pharma market rebounds, asthma drug top seller

NEW DELHI: After months of sluggish sales, strong demand for derma and cardiac drugs drove the organised pharma retail market to double-digit growth in Nov, with heavy pollution in several parts of the country boosting Foracort sales.
The medication, used for asthma and respiratory issues, topped the market in Nov with sales of Rs 82 crore, according to the latest data culled by TOI from IQVIA.
Foracort assumed the top slot in Nov with a growth of 2%, while antibiotic Augmentin ranked second with a growth of 9% registering Rs 76 crore sales, and antidiabetic therapy Glycomet GP, ranked third, was almost flat at Rs 69 crore.

Pharma mkt rebounds, asthma drug top seller

In terms of therapies, urology led the growth with 18% rise, while the derma, cardiac, and pain-relief segments followed with growth rates of 16%, 13%, and 13%, respectively.
Further, pain-relief medication Zerodol SP posted a growth of 22%, while others which grew over 20% month-on-month include Ryzodeg, Rosuvas, Cilacar, Rybelsus and Duphalac.
Sun Pharma continued to lead the pack with a share of 8% in the overall pharma retail market valued at Rs 2,28,059 crore. Cipla and Dr Reddy’s also increased their share month on month.
During the month, both acute – mainly painkillers and anti-infectives – and chronic medication, those prescribed for long-term ailments, posted a double-digit growth of 11% each.
“After a lull for the last three months, industry volumes reported positive growth of 3.5%. Rebound in growth for anti-infectives was led by key molecules like amoxicillin+clavulanic acid and ceftriaxone, pantoprazole+domperidone combination was main growth driver for gastro-intestinal therapy, cough syrups, formoteral+budesonide and levocetirizine+montelukast drove growth in respiratory therapies,” an analyst from ICICI said.
Domestic companies registered growth of nearly 11%, whereas MNCs grew just over 10%.
In 2025, the market will continue to grow by high-single digits, led by price increase and new launches, while volume growth remains muted, an analyst from HSBC told TOI. “In 2025, we assume Indian companies will start their journey in GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs with the launch of generic liraglutide,” he added.
GLP-1 is a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels and plays a role in weight management. Globally, MNCs including Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have launched blockbuster drugs for obesity and diabetes, which are expected to be launched in India over the next few years.




French island territory hit by Cyclone Chido

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French island territory hit by Cyclone Chido


France’s Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte has been struck by the worst cyclone to hit the islands in nearly a century.

At least two people were reportedly killed when Cyclone Chido made landfall on Saturday, causing wind gusts of more than 225km/h (140mph), and it is feared more may have died.

One local official told French media the island’s shanty town had been “completely destroyed”, while French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said he feared a “heavy” death toll.

French President Emmanuel Macron said France would “be there” for the people of Mayotte, while French officials said 250 firefighters and security personnel would be sent to the islands, with some having already arrived.

Located north-west of Madagascar, Mayotte is an archipelago comprised of one main island, Grand-Terre, and several smaller ones.

Even before the cyclone hit with full force on Saturday morning, there were reports of trees being uprooted, roofs being ripped off buildings and power lines being downed.

The head of Mayotte’s firefighters’ union, Abdoul Karim Ahmed Allaoui, told the BFM news channel on Saturday morning “even emergency responders are locked down”.

He continued: “There’s no mobile phone service and we can’t reach people on the island.

“Even buildings built to earthquake standards haven’t held up.

“The emergency services command centre has been evacuated and is functioning at partial capacity.”

The island’s Pamandzi airport “suffered major damage, especially to the control tower,” acting French Transport Minister Francois Durovray wrote on X.

Air traffic “will be restored initially with military aid planes. Ships are on the way to ensure resupply,” he added.

Mr Retailleau wrote in a statement on X: “I offer my full support to the people of Mayotte. The state and local emergency services are fully mobilized. 110 civil security personnel and firefighters have already been sent and are on site. A second dispatch will be made tomorrow with 140 additional personnel.”

French Prime Minister François Bayrou, who took up the post on Friday, said the cyclone was of “exceptional severity” and he was being updated on the situation “hour by hour”.

Mayotte was initially placed under a purple alert – the highest level – and a “strict lockdown for the whole population, including emergency services” was imposed. It has since been lowered to red to allow emergency services to leave their bases.

The cyclone is also expected to hit Mozambique on the African mainland.


Atal Pension Yojana Crosses 7 Crore Subscribers, Strengthening Retirement Security In India | Economy News

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Atal Pension Yojana Crosses 7 Crore Subscribers, Strengthening Retirement Security In India | Economy News


The Ministry of Finance recently announced a significant milestone for the Atal Pension Yojana (APY), with over 7.15 crore subscribers enrolled under the scheme as of December 2, 2024.

Highlighting the program’s success, the Ministry posted on X, “With more than seven crore subscribers under Atal Pension Yojana #APY, offers secure retirement with guaranteed #PensionBenefits, ensuring peace of mind after retirement for its beneficiaries. #FinMinYearReview2024 #BankingInitiatives #ViksitBharat”  

Launched to provide financial security to India’s working population in their post-retirement years, APY guarantees a minimum monthly pension ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 from the age of 60, depending on the contributions made by the subscriber.

The scheme has witnessed significant participation from women, who constitute around 47 per cent of the total subscribers.A standout feature of APY is its comprehensive pension structure. 

Upon the demise of the subscriber, the spouse continues to receive the same pension.Following the death of both the subscriber and the spouse, the pension corpus accumulated until the age of 60 is returned to the nominee, ensuring long-term financial stability for the family.

Subscribers can contribute monthly, quarterly, or half-yearly, offering them flexibility in managing their finances.The APY addresses critical needs in an era of rising longevity, nuclear families, and increased living costs. 

A pension provides a steady monthly income, ensuring a dignified life post-retirement.The Government guarantees the minimum pension, making up any shortfall if the returns on contributions fall below expectations.

Conversely, if the returns exceed expectations, the surplus is credited to the subscriber’s account, enhancing the scheme’s benefits.APY’s growing subscriber base underscores its vital role in fostering financial inclusion and addressing India’s need for a robust pension system. With its government-backed assurance and flexibility, the scheme remains a cornerstone in providing retirement security to millions of Indians. 


Weekly Tarot Card Reading: Tarot Predictions for December 15 to 21, 2024 | Astrology

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Weekly Tarot Card Reading: Tarot Predictions for December 15 to 21, 2024 | Astrology


ARIS (March 21-April 20)

Love: Decision

Read on to find out your tarot reading for the week ahead.(Unsplash)
Read on to find out your tarot reading for the week ahead.(Unsplash)

Mood: Three of Swords

Career: Restraint

New demanding tasks may encourage you to collaborate more effectively with your coworkers. Maintain peace at home by supporting your family members. Consider investing in well-established companies to reap financial benefits. Avoid revealing your new romantic relationship to casual friends, as this may cause problems. Be very careful when taking long road trips. Prepare for minor disagreements or issues related to property. Rely on the power of friendship to help you overcome the mistakes of others. You may perform exceptionally well in your studies, show brilliant abilities and be successful academically. You can also have an active social life, meeting new people and expanding your network.

Lucky Number: 8

Lucky color: Sky blue

TAURUS (April 21-May 20)

Love: Power

Mood: Lover

Career: Two of Wands

Your health is expected to be good this week, which will give you energy to complete your tasks. Financial stability is expected, which will enable you to treat yourself. Romantic feelings may increase, bringing happiness and peace in your relationship. In the next few days, you will see continuous progress in your career. Be aware of family issues, as a small problem can turn into a big dispute. Take advantage of the opportunity for personal growth and introspection. There is a possibility of profitable profits from property deals. Plan your vacation wisely to maximize enjoyment. Students can perform exceptionally well while increasing their self-esteem. You will likely attend social gatherings, enhancing relationships with people around you.

Lucky Number: 3

Lucky color: brown

Gemini (21 May-21 June)

Love: Four Coins

Mood: Justice

Career: Eight Cups

Expect a week full of encouraging progress. Your creative strategies at work will keep you ahead of your peers. Ignoring parental guidance can cause tension in the family, so be cautious. Buying a high-end vehicle may not give you the expected financial benefits, so consider your choice carefully. In your love life, this week provides a great opportunity to strengthen your relationship and fulfill your desires. Maintain an active lifestyle and give priority to your health to face any difficulty easily. Avoid physically demanding outdoor activities that may tire you. Beware of unexpected expenses associated with acquiring disputed property. Your self-reliance will play an important role in achieving success this week.

Lucky Number: 1

Auspicious color: light yellow

cancer (22 June-22 July)

Love: Three of Wands

Mood: Hierophant

Career: Ten of Cups

This week looks promising for Cancer people, as there can be progress in many aspects of life. Setting clear objectives will contribute greatly to success in your professional life. You can expect to receive pending payments, which will strengthen your financial position. If you have someone special in your life, their presence can add deep meaning and joy to your days. For students, this week brings an opportunity to understand new concepts, which is likely to enhance academic performance. Any recent improvements or internal changes at home will be noticed and acknowledged by people around you, which will bring a sense of accomplishment. However, traveling during this time may not be completely comfortable and some minor inconveniences may arise. It’s best to prepare for potential disruptions to ensure a smooth experience. Overall, a gratifying week is in store with a mix of progress in personal, professional and domestic life.

Lucky Number: 9

Lucky color: red

leo (July 23-August 23)

Love: King of Coins

Mood: Stupid

Career: Emperor

Explore the exciting possibilities of love and tenderness that can bring new excitement to your romantic life. Smart financial choices can lead to stability and growth. This is the perfect time to resolve family issues and refresh your mood. Establishing a regular morning routine can boost your health and vitality. Face challenges with strength and determination and stand out. Make the most of great travel opportunities that can expand your perspective. This week, property transactions require thoughtful planning and careful evaluation. Take time for self-reflection and personal development.

You are able to excel in education, impressing others with your expertise. Involvement in group activities can provide a sense of belonging and strengthen relationships.

Lucky number: 22

Auspicious color: magenta

Virgo (24 August-23 September)

Love: Devil

Mood: Two Cups

Career: The Hermit

This week may bring financial progress while increasing your stability. Your career can advance when you demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Incorporating light activities like yoga or swimming can improve your health. Parental advice can serve as valuable support at home. Address relationship issues with compassion to deepen your connection. Some people may get the opportunity to set out on a spiritually rewarding journey. People who are looking to buy a new house may soon find the right option. Students should adopt a holistic approach towards their studies to boost their creative skills. Engaging in thoughtful discussions with like-minded people can also be beneficial.

Lucky number: 17

Lucky color: yellow

Libra (24 September-23 October)

Love: Seven Coins

Mood: Sage

Career: Magician

You can enhance your family relationships and create a peaceful atmosphere at home. Financial stability and progress may soon provide a sense of security. If you’re looking for romance, you may soon meet someone who matches your interests. Prioritize both your physical and mental health with consistent care. Your career is likely to progress at a steady pace, opening doors to further growth. Property related transactions may go well, which will yield positive results. Be careful when organizing a trip, as haste can lead to mistakes. Staying committed to your studies can ensure continued improvement. You will probably find solace and encouragement among your close friends.

Lucky number: 11

Lucky color: peach

scorpio (24 October-22 November)

Love: Knight of Coins

Mood: Judgment

Career: Fool

This week, managing your expenses should be smooth and effortless. Some individuals may enjoy a magical evening with their partner at a romantic venue, sharing meaningful conversations and creating unforgettable memories. Reconnecting with distant relatives, especially those living abroad, can help heal the emotional wounds of past separations. However, travel plans may have to be canceled suddenly. The good thing is that the long-awaited home renovation project may be completed with success. Students are advised to avoid following the crowd and take informed decisions about their career path. Take time to take care of your health before small issues become big problems. Whether it’s in relationships, career, or personal care, thoughtful planning and attention to details can yield positive results this week.

Lucky number: 18

Auspicious colour: Maroon

Love: Restraint

Mood: Night of Wands

Career: Ten Coins

Motivating your team can greatly enhance both their attitude and performance. A sudden influx of money can help in repaying outstanding debts and handling essential expenses. Increase in your health and vitality will bring you immense happiness. You may also get a golden opportunity to express your deep feelings towards a special person. Have some flexibility in your plans, as travel delays may extend your trip longer than you expected. Be careful when reviewing property documents, as overlooking details can lead to problems later. Individuals returning to their studies after a long gap may receive encouraging updates, which may rekindle their motivation and confidence.

Overall, this week has brought a mix of opportunities and challenges. While the opportunity for personal and financial growth exists, it is important to be mindful of potential obstacles. By being adaptable and mindful of communication, you can make the week run smoothly.

Lucky number: 22

Lucky color: beige

Love: Two Swords

Mood: The Hanged Man

Career: Maharani

You can take proactive steps to advance your career, which may lead to greater satisfaction in your current role. As your financial situation improves, other areas of your life will also improve, bringing you prosperity and happiness. Traveling with family, especially with young children, can provide a refreshing break and strengthen relationships. Making new friends this week will bring you happiness and create memorable moments. Students should focus on their studies and avoid any distractions that may hinder progress. Engaging in fitness activities, especially with the guidance of a professional instructor, can significantly enhance your health and well-being. When meeting a potential romantic partner for the first time, it’s wise to be cautious and mindful of the secrets you share.

Lucky number: 7

Auspicious color: Saffron

Love: Magician

Mood: Two Coins

Career: Tower

This week offers an opportunity to unlock new opportunities and elevate your professional status. Your focus and attention to detail will serve as major strengths in the workplace, potentially boosting your financial success. A family celebration can bring about a deeper sense of connection, fostering stronger bonds with loved ones. However, it is important to be fast and alert when handling property issues. Planning a leisure trip can provide an unforgettable experience full of fun and relaxation. Students interested in arts have an important chance to shine and establish themselves creatively. Balancing structured routines with physical activity can be an effective way to reduce stress and promote well-being. On the personal front, recent romantic developments may leave some single people feeling broken or unsure about their feelings.

Lucky Number: 1

Lucky color: orange

Pisces (February 20-March 20)

love: world

Mood: Sun

Career: Ten of Cups

This week, Pisces people may feel an increase in energy and happiness, which will probably be reflected in various areas of their lives. Professionally, your talents may be recognized, leading to opportunities to influence your career path. It is wise to do thorough research before making any changes to your financial investments. At home, with a little adaptability and patience, you can re-establish peace and balance in your relationships. For those in committed relationships, emotional bonds can become stronger, making your connection deeper. International travel experiences can leave a lasting impression, enriching your outlook on life. Some property buyers may find that the location of a potential investment is particularly advantageous. Students who remain focused and hard-working can achieve remarkable success in their academic endeavors. Additionally, dedicating time to yoga and meditation can refresh your mental and physical energy, helping to maintain a sense of inner peace and balance.

Lucky number: 18

Lucky color: white

By: Manisha Kaushik

(Astrologer, Tarot Card Reader, Numerologist, Vastu and Feng Shui Consultant)

Contact: +919650015920


Modi accused Congress of strangulating the Constitution for 7 decades. latest news india

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Modi accused Congress of strangulating the Constitution for 7 decades. latest news india


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the Congress never respected the Constitution and five generations of leaders tried to insult and weaken the sacred document for political gains and appeasement politics. Emergency and harming constitutional freedoms.

Modi accused Congress of strangulating the Constitution for seven decades
Modi accused Congress of strangulating the Constitution for seven decades

Concluding the two-day special debate in the Lok Sabha on the occasion of 75 years of the Constitution, Modi drew a comparison between the constitutional amendments brought by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, claiming that the opposition party has historically been in favor of reservation. Was against, he appreciated it. Achievements of his government, stressed that his welfare reach was guided by the Constitution, and read out 11 pledges to make India a developed nation by 2047, the centenary of independence.

In his detailed 110-minute speech in Hindi, the Prime Minister repeatedly targeted the Congress and the Gandhi family and criticized it for making the biggest “jumla” or false promise of “Garibi Hatao” (eradicate poverty) – an election slogan that Contributed to Indira Gandhi’s landslide victory in the 1971 elections. He also said that his government is always working to strengthen the unity and integrity of the nation – the prime concern of the framers of the Constitution.

“A family of Congress left no stone unturned to hurt the Constitution. They ruled for 55 out of the 75 years of our visit, so the country has a right to know what happened. The tradition of bad thoughts, distorted politics and conduct of this family continued. The family challenged the Constitution repeatedly at all levels,” Modi said.

“Destroying the spirit of the Constitution is in the veins of the Congress. For us, the purity and sanctity of the Constitution is everything.”

He repeatedly referred to the Emergency, which coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Constitution, to hit out at the Congress. “The country was turned into a prison and the rights of the common citizen were looted. The sins of Congress can never be erased. Democracy was strangled,” he said.

“Congress has repeatedly insulted, weakened and betrayed the Constitution,” he said.

The Prime Minister was responding to the two-day debate on the Constitution, which proceeded smoothly except for brief interruptions.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that the PM did not say anything new in the speech. “He has bored us. It took me back decades…I felt like I was sitting in that double phase of math,” she said.

Modi said that between 1947 and 1952, an interim government that had not won any election and had no popular mandate changed the Constitution and attacked freedom of expression. At the time, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was leading the interim government in independent India’s first generation of elections in 1951–52.

“This was an insult to the founders of the Constitution and a grave insult to them. What he could not do in the Constituent Assembly, he did it through the back door. That was a sin,” he said.

He was referring to the First Amendment to the Constitution which brought about a number of changes including imposing certain restrictions on freedom of expression, protecting zamindari abolition laws and enacting laws to help weaker sections face legal challenges on the basis of their right to equality. Were done.

Modi alleged that Nehru had written a letter to the Chief Ministers at that time saying that if the Constitution came in the way of the government, it would have to be amended. “This sin was committed in 1951. The country was not peaceful.” (President) Rajendra Prasad, Chairman (GV Mavalankar), JB Kripalani and Jayaprakash Narayan asked Nehru to stop. But he did not heed the advice of these senior leaders,” Modi said.

The PM said that Congress governments amended the Constitution 75 times in six decades. “Congress tasted amendments in the Constitution, it continued to bleed the spirit of the Constitution. The seed sown by the first Prime Minister was nurtured by Indira Gandhi.

In 1971, the Constitution was amended to overturn the Supreme Court order, he said, referring to the 25th amendment brought in to roll back the apex court’s landmark judgment in Golaknath vs. Punjab, which had found that the central government had no power to make fundamental changes. rights.

“When her election was found unconstitutional by the court, almost forcing her to resign, she became angry and imposed emergency to save her chair,” he said.

He also referred to the 39th Amendment passed in 1975 which kept the elections of the President, Vice President, Prime Minister and Speaker of the Lok Sabha beyond the scrutiny of the courts.

During the Emergency, thousands of people were jailed, courts were gagged and newspapers were silenced. When HR Khanna gave a judgment respecting the Constitution, he was barred from becoming the Chief Justice of India… The heartless government tore the Constitution to pieces,” he said, referring to Justice Khanna’s famous dissent in the ADM Jabalpur case. Hui said.

Modi then moved towards Rajiv Gandhi, whom he held responsible for vote bank politics during the Shah Bano controversy. “They shocked the Constitution and harmed the spirit of equality and justice for all,” he said.

Modi said that when the Supreme Court gave authority to the elderly Shah Bano, Rajiv Gandhi succumbed to conservatism and overturned the decision through a new law.

In 1985, the apex court ruled in Bano’s favor and awarded her maintenance as a divorced Muslim woman. Amid protests from conservative groups, the central government enacted a law the following year that substantially reduced the impact of the decision.

“For vote bank politics, Rajiv Gandhi sacrificed the Constitution. They played with the Constitution, a practice which was continued by the next generation,” he said.

He then launched a veiled attack on former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and then PM Manmohan Singh with quotes that appear to be taken from Sanjay Baru’s 2014 book. The Accidental Prime MinisterIn the book, Baru, who was Singh’s media advisor from 2004 to 2008, quoted Singh as saying that there cannot be two centers of power. “I have to accept that the party president is the center of power. The government is accountable to the party,” Baru wrote, apparently quoting Singh.

Modi targeted the National Advisory Council, a body headed by Sonia Gandhi, saying that it has been placed above the Prime Minister’s Office.

He also hit out at Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, recalling how he had publicly tore down an ordinance approved by the cabinet in 2013 – aimed at protecting convicted MPs from immediate disqualification. in public. Unfortunately, one person tears up the proposal and the cabinet changes its decision. What kind of arrangement was this? It was his habit to play with the Constitution and weaken it.

The Prime Minister drew differences between the constitutional amendments brought by the BJP and the Congress, alleging that the BJP was correcting past mistakes, while the Congress was using the Constitution as a political pawn.

He said that his government has made amendments in the Constitution for the welfare of other backward classes, to bring reservation for economically weaker sections, to implement women’s reservation, to neutralize Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Amended. He said, “We amended the Constitution for unity, integrity and national interest, not for the sake of power.”

Modi also mocked the Congress and said that an organization that has never followed its party constitution is immersed in dynastic politics. He cited the example of Vallabhbhai Patel’s failure to become PM and his dealings with former party chief Sitaram Kesari to accuse Congress of being captured by one family. “Those who lack democratic spirit, who could not follow the constitution of their party, how will they respect the constitution of the country?” he asked.

In contrast, he cited the example of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who said he respected the Constitution and resigned from power without resorting to any unconstitutional means to cling to power after losing trust votes in 1996 and 1998. decided to. He said, “The other party did a cash-for-vote scam, Parliament was turned into a market. But Atal ji was committed to the Constitution.”

He blamed the Congress for invoking Article 35A – which gave special benefits to permanent residents of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir – without parliamentary approval and alleged that successive Congress governments had left the memorials and buildings planned for Dr BR Ambedkar incomplete. Insulted. He said that these projects were completed by BJP governments.

“They were full of hatred and bitterness toward a man everyone respected,” he said.

Modi praised Ambedkar, saying that his foresight resulted in reservations for marginalized castes, but alleged that Congress neglected to celebrate his centenary and obstructed the award of Bharat Ratna to India’s first law minister, who It finally happened under a non-Congress administration in 1990.

“These people, who knew vote bank politics, wanted to do religious appeasement and harm SC/ST/OBC people…From Nehru to Rajiv Gandhi, Congress prime ministers opposed reservation,” he said.

He said the Congress kept the Mandal Commission report, which had recommended OBC quota in jobs and education, on the back burner for decades and repeatedly tried to introduce religious quotas.

“This is the sin of Congress. In the quest for power and to please the vote bank, Congress tried to overturn the decision of the Constituent Assembly against religious quota,” he said.

Hitting back at the PM, Congress’ organization general secretary in-charge KC Venugopal said, “…while people were expecting answers from him on the injustice and inequality happening to the Indian society, he decided to bring out stale points against the Congress.” Kiya, who has lost.” all echoed among the public.


Eight Arab countries vow to support ‘peaceful transition process’ in Syria | Syria’s War News

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Eight Arab countries vow to support ‘peaceful transition process’ in Syria | Syria’s War News


Syria’s new government must be ‘inclusive’, say Arab foreign ministers in Jordan, warning against any discrimination.

Top diplomats from eight Arab League countries have agreed at a meeting in Jordan to “support a peaceful transition process” in Syria following President Bashar al-Assad’s overthrow.

Foreign ministers from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, the UAE, Bahrain and Qatar issued a joint statement on Saturday after they met in the Jordanian Red Sea port of Aqaba.

They said “all political and social forces” must be represented in the new Syrian government and warned against “any ethnic, sectarian or religious discrimination” and called for “justice and equality for all citizens”.

The political process in Syria should be supported by “the United Nations and the Arab League, in accordance with the principles of Security Council Resolution 2254”, a resolution in 2015 which set out a roadmap for a negotiated settlement, the statement said.

The Arab diplomats also attended a separate meeting in Aqaba that included US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pederson and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

That meeting also called for an inclusive and representative government that respects the rights of minorities and does not offer “a base for terrorist groups”, according to Blinken, who spoke at a news conference.

“Today’s agreement sends a unified message to the new interim authority and parties in Syria on the principles crucial to securing much-needed support and recognition,” he said.

The talks come following the fall of al-Assad after a lightning offensive by the opposition group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) last week.

Rebuilding institutions and forming an inclusive Syria are key terms from the Arab diplomats which “overlap with a lot of the positions of other dignitaries in attendance today in Aqaba”, said Al Jazeera’s Nour Odeh, reporting from Jordan’s capital, Amman.

“Nobody wants to see Syria break into several countries,” she added. “They want to see a stable Syria that can welcome back the millions of refugees, and they’re offering their support, political, financial and humanitarian.”

According to their statement, the Arab ministers said state institutions must be preserved to stop Syria from “slipping into chaos”, also calling to boost joint “efforts to combat terrorism … as it poses a threat to Syria and to the security of the region and the world”.

They also condemned “Israel’s incursion into the buffer zone with Syria”, its air strikes in Syria, and demanded “the withdrawal of Israeli forces” from Syrian territory.

Inclusiveness is ‘critical’

Following al-Assad’s removal, a transitional government installed by the rebel forces has insisted the rights of all Syrians will be protected, as will the rule of law.

This will be fundamental for post-al-Assad Syria to avoid past mistakes, according to Labib al-Nahhas, director of the Syrian Association for Citizens’ Dignity, which advocates for the rights of Syrian refugees.

“The key to success in such a critical phase is inclusiveness, and not handing the country back to a single party or a single person because that was the origin of the problem that we had – that was the genesis of how we got here after 50 years of dictatorship,” al-Nahhas told Al Jazeera.

“The behaviour of the Syrian population in general, and the rebels specifically, going into the cities, even going into minority areas. I think it was exemplary,” al-Nahhas said, adding that there have so far only been scattered reports about retribution or vindictive acts.

The director said the international community must play a role in safeguarding Syria’s inclusiveness process.


Skulls and body bags: Searching for Syria’s disappeared

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Skulls and body bags: Searching for Syria’s disappeared


BBC .BBC

Khaled al Hamad dug up human remains in search of his two brothers, who vanished under the Assad regime

Adra is a strange kind of neighbourhood cemetery – two lone graves sit in an empty expanse of bumpy earth, sparsely covered with grass.

For years, this was an area tightly controlled by President Bashar al-Assad’s forces.

Now, a week after they fled, a concrete slab in one corner of this empty cemetery has been moved to reveal a shallow grave containing at least half a dozen white bags, labelled with names and prison numbers.

Khaled al Hamad, a nearby resident, was desperately pulling the bags out when we arrived.

He shows us the three he has already opened. Each contains a human skull and bones. The writing on the sacks suggest they are the remains of two female prisoners, and one male.

It is not clear how they died, or whether this is evidence of criminal abuse by Assad’s regime.

But Khaled needs no convincing. He’s searching for his two brothers, Jihad and Hussein, taken by Assad’s notorious air force intelligence a decade ago. They haven’t been heard of since.

Human remains found inside a bodybag in Adra cemetery

Bones were found inside a bodybag in Adra cemetery

“Some people were taken to an area called ‘the driving school’ and liquidated there,” he said. “I expect this happened to my brothers. Maybe they are in some of these bags buried here.”

We shared this information with Human Rights Watch in Syria, who said they were investigating reports of prisoners’ remains dumped in similar bags elsewhere.

Assad’s fall has unleashed a tsunami of hope from families who were left for decades without any way of finding out what happened to their loved ones.

“If you ever came past here [in Assad’s time], you couldn’t stop, you couldn’t look up,” Khaled said.

“Cars used to speed past. If you stopped, they would come to you, put a plastic bag on your head and take you away.”

Tens of thousands of families like his are now searching for relatives who disappeared into Assad’s notorious prison system, or into its military interrogation centres.

Some were taken to the Mazzeh military airbase in Damascus.

A photo of Abu Jarrah, face lit alone in the dark.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham member Abu Jarrah showed the BBC where he says prisoners were tortured by Assad’s military

This site, once a key buffer between Assad and rebel forces, is deserted. Discarded military boots are strewn on the runway, a live rocket lies on the ground, the only signs of life are the new guards at the gate: young militia men from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group that took control of Syria last week.

They show us the torture room used by Assad’s forces – including a metal pole to secure prisoners’ feet for beating, and a set of wires next to an electrical switchboard.

“Here they electrocuted prisoners,” the guards’ commander, Abu Jarrah, tells me. “These are electric cables – the investigator sits here, the guards put them on the prisoner’s body and turn on the power.

“The prisoner loses his mind and confesses everything. They tell the interrogator to write whatever he wants, in the hope it will stop.”

Abu Jarrah also said that the 400 women held here were routinely raped, and that children were born into the prison.

The only thing more painful than finding your parent or child among the records here is not finding them at all.

In the building next door, families scratch desperately through thumbnail photos scattered in piles on the concrete floor – face after face staring grim and blank, silent witnesses to the years of Assad’s rule.

.

Photos found at the Mazzeh military airbase showed some of those that were held there

Sobbing among them was the mother of Mahmoud Saed Hussein, a Kurd from al-Qamishli.

“Yesterday, we saw he was registered at the airbase prison,” she told me. “We came but couldn’t find him. I’ve been looking for him for 11 years, searching from one prison to another.”

“These are all like my son,” she wept, gesturing at the piles of photos on the floor. “May God burn Assad’s heart, as he has burned ours.”

Beyond them, three rooms packed to the rafters with files open out on each other, one after the other. Several people are crouching on a mountain of documents several feet high covering the floor.

Assad’s regime was meticulous in documenting its brutality – a vast bureaucracy of terror that makes the scale of its actions all too clear, but in which the stories of individuals are often lost or submerged.

A woman in a brown headscarf crying.

The mother of Mahmoud Saed Hussein has been searching for her son for 11 years

“What are these notes?” one woman raged. “Nobody is helping us. We want someone to come and check these documents with us. How can I find him among this many prison files?”

The lack of any ordered system means critical evidence is being lost each day at sites across Syria – information about the missing, but also potentially, any links between Assad’s regime and foreign governments like the US or the UK, both of which have been accused of benefitting from the American policy of extraordinary rendition, in which terrorist suspects were sent for interrogation to countries that used torture.

Human rights groups have accused the UK government of turning a blind eye to the US practice during the so-called war on terror, when America sent detainees to several countries in the Middle East, including Syria.

Outside, the silent hangars of the airbase are dotted with the charred remains of Russian-made planes and radar, hit by repeated Israeli airstrikes over the past week.

Assad’s departure has shifted the delicate balance of power between conflicting groups in Syria, and their various international backers, including Turkey, Iran and the US.

This was never just Syria’s war and outside powers still have a stake in what happens here.

Syrians are adamant that the time has come for them to govern themselves without anyone dictating what they should do.

As we leave, a young HTS fighter climbs up on a roof to slash at the portrait of Assad hanging above the interrogation building.

He grins down to the comrades watching from below, as photos and documents from the regime’s military files flutter around their boots.

Assad’s fall has posed as-yet-unanswered questions about Syria’s future, but it has also left unanswered many questions from the past.


Three large IPOs record demand worth 2.2L cr

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Three large IPOs record demand worth 2.2L cr


Three large IPOs record demand worth 2.2L cr

MUMBAI: Three large IPOs, all of which closed on Friday, have collectively attracted investor interest worth about Rs 2.2 lakh crore. The three companies – Vishal Mega Mart, Sai Life Sciences and One Mobikwik – had set out to mobilise Rs 11,615 crore from the public, data from the exchanges showed.
Of these three IPOs, the offer for One Mobikwik – the tech-driven payments enabler – saw a nearly 120 times demand, making it the most subscribed Rs 500-crore-plus IPO of 2024. Retail investors were the most active lot in the Mobikwik IPO.

Biggest grossing year for offers

The Rs 8,000-crore offer for Vishal Mega Mart too witnessed strong investor demand. It was subscribed a little over 27 times, garnering total demand worth Rs 1.6 lakh crore.
Sai Life Sciences’ IPO, which was aiming to get Rs 3,043 crore, was subscribed 10.3 times. The offer saw a demand worth Rs 21,881 crore, exchange data showed.
So far in the year, IPOs have mobilised nearly Rs 2 lakh crore, making it the biggest grossing year for such offers. Prior to this, in 2021, nearly Rs 1.2 lakh crore was raised from the capital market through 63 offers, data from Chittorgarh showed.