The US Supreme Court has denied Tahawwur Rana’s plea to halt his extradition to India, paving the way for his return to face charges related to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. Indian officials view this extradition as a diplomatic triumph for Prime Minister Modi’s government, emphasizing accountability for terrorism-related crimes.
NEW DELHI: 4th April: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi have moved the Supreme Court against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 votes in favor and 95 against on Thursday. Earlier, on April 3, the Lok Sabha had passed the bill with 288 members supporting it and 232 opposing it.
Amit Shah defended the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, stating it is not anti-religious and criticized opposition parties for spreading misinformation. He clarified the inclusion of non-Muslims in the Waqf Board is administrative only and aims to enhance transparency and prevent mismanagement of Waqf properties, dismissing fears among minorities as baseless.
The Waqf Amendment Bill, introduced by Minister Kiren Rijiju, faces backlash from opposition leaders like Gaurav Gogoi, who argue it undermines constitutional rights of minorities and promotes division in society. Key changes include requirements for ownership declarations and non-Muslim representation in Waqf governance, raising concerns about minority community rights.
TMC MP Mahua Moitra filed a petition in the Supreme Court backing challenges to the validity of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners’ (EC) appointment process. The controversy arose after the Modi government introduced a new law replacing the Chief Justice of India with a Union cabinet minister, chosen on the prime minister’s recommendation, in the selection panel. Critics argue that this change undermines the independence of the Election Commission. The case raises concerns over executive influence in crucial constitutional appointments.
Rahul Gandhi questioned why the Chief Justice of India (CJI) was removed from the panel that appoints Election Commissioners. He asked why this change was made and how it might affect fair elections. Gandhi stressed that judicial supervision is important for such key decisions. His statement comes as people discuss election reforms and the independence of institutions.
In a recent press conference on January 26, 2025, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament (MP) Sudhanshu Trivedi made sharp comments ahead of the Delhi Assembly Elections, targeting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and its leadership. He also expressed pride in the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to return Tahwwar Rana, an accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to India.
Justice Arun Mishra has been criticized for favoring the Modi government in his judgments, including several during court vacations that benefited Adani. He publicly called Modi a “visionary” and was allowed to keep his official house for 9 months after retirement, contrary to rules. Later, he was appointed NHRC Chief, where he did little for three years. Mahua Moitra called him an “Internationally Acclaimed Brown-noser” after his appointment as BCCI Ombudsman, highlighting concerns about political influence on judicial appointments.
Today, On 18th September, the Modi government approved the Kovind panel’s recommendations for “One Nation, One Election,” aiming for simultaneous Lok Sabha, state, and local elections to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This initiative will undergo nationwide discussion, with implementation proposed in phases, although it faces criticism for potentially undermining federalism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed widespread protests over a brutal rape and murder, condemning crimes against women as unforgivable. He assured strict action against perpetrators, emphasized the government’s commitment to justice, and pledged harsh punishment for offenders. Modi also highlighted his government’s support for women’s self-help groups and urged backing for Maharashtra’s BJP-led administration.
