Supreme Court demands update on Ram Mandir donation probe in one week

A federal judge has strongly criticized a lawsuit filed by former President Donald Trump against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), calling it an improper case of self-dealing. The judge also recommended that the lawyers who brought the case face disciplinary action, including acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. The lawsuit, which was filed during Trump's presidency, challenged certain IRS actions. However, the judge ruled that the case was not legitimate and appeared to benefit the former president personally. In legal terms, self-dealing occurs when someone in a position of power uses their authority for personal gain rather than for the public good. The judge's recommendation for disciplinary action against the lawyers involved is a serious step. It suggests that the judge believes the lawyers may have violated ethical rules by filing a lawsuit that lacked legal merit. Todd Blanche, as acting attorney general, is a high-ranking official in the Justice Department. This decision adds to the legal challenges surrounding Trump, who faces several other lawsuits and investigations. The ruling does not impose immediate penalties but puts the lawyers on notice that their conduct could be reviewed by legal ethics authorities. The case highlights the ongoing tensions between Trump's legal strategies and the judicial system. The judge's strong language underscores the importance of ensuring that lawsuits are filed in good faith and not for improper purposes.

The UK government announced plans on Monday to change the law to allow the deportation of a convicted paedophile who led a notorious grooming gang. Interior minister Shabana Mahmood said the move targets Shabir Ahmed, who was the ringleader of a group that targeted girls in Rochdale, northern England. Ahmed was sentenced to 22 years in prison in 2012 for multiple child sexual offences, including rape. He was released earlier this month under the country's early release programme, sparking public outcry. The proposed legal change would enable the deportation of foreign-born criminals even after they have served their sentences. Ahmed is believed to be of Pakistani origin, but the government has not confirmed his citizenship status. Grooming gangs, often involving groups of men targeting young girls, have been a major issue in the UK, with several high-profile cases in towns like Rochdale and Rotherham. Critics have accused authorities of failing to protect victims due to cultural sensitivities. The new law would close a loophole that currently prevents deportation of some serious offenders. Mahmood stated that the government is determined to ensure that such criminals face the full consequences of their actions. The announcement comes amid growing public anger over early releases of dangerous offenders. The legislation will be introduced in Parliament soon.

New York State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani has publicly defended his advisor Morris Katz, despite calls from the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) to cut ties with him. The controversy stems from Katz's involvement in the sale of a property owned by a group called Platner, which later collapsed amid scandals. The DSA urged its allies to blacklist Katz, labeling his actions as 'perverted.' However, Mamdani stated that Katz remains a top advisor and did not distance himself from the consultant. Mamdani, a progressive Democrat, broke his silence on the matter, emphasizing that he values Katz's counsel. The DSA's push to blacklist Katz reflects internal divisions within the party over ethical standards and past associations. Platner, the organization involved, faced multiple scandals that led to its downfall. Critics argue that advisors like Katz should be held accountable for their roles in such failures. Mamdani's decision to keep Katz close has drawn mixed reactions from supporters and opponents alike. The situation highlights ongoing tensions within progressive circles about accountability and loyalty. Mamdani's stance may affect his political relationships going forward.

Brazil's government watchdog, the Comptroller General (CGU), has raised alarms about a resurgence of secret budget spending through committee amendments. These funds, known as 'emendas de comissão,' totaled over R$15 billion ($2.8 billion) in 2024 alone, according to a report. The category saw an explosive growth from R$329 million in 2022 to R$15.5 billion in 2023, after a previous secret budget scheme was banned. The CGU found that it is nearly impossible to trace the real authors of these amendments, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. The return of opaque spending comes after years of controversy over Brazil's 'secret budget'—a system that allowed lawmakers to direct funds to projects without public disclosure. The CGU's report highlights that the new committee-based mechanism lacks proper oversight, potentially enabling corruption and misuse of public money. The watchdog warned that the current system hides who is actually responsible for allocating the funds, undermining democratic governance. This development has sparked calls for stricter regulations and more transparent budget processes. Critics argue that the government must ensure that all spending is traceable and subject to public scrutiny to prevent abuse.

The Trump administration has handed over evidence to Minneapolis prosecutors in the fatal shootings of two people by immigration agents during deportation operations in January. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced Monday that federal officials provided the long-awaited materials after six months of negotiations and jurisdictional disputes. The evidence relates to the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, as well as the wounding of a Venezuelan man. The shootings occurred during Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) sweeps that have drawn criticism from immigrant rights advocates. Moriarty's office had previously requested the evidence to investigate potential wrongdoing. The handover marks a significant development in the case, which had been stalled due to disagreements over jurisdiction between local and federal authorities. The evidence is described as 'voluminous' and includes reports and other materials. It remains unclear whether charges will be filed against the agents involved. The case highlights ongoing tensions between local law enforcement and federal immigration policies under the Trump administration. The investigation will now proceed as officials review the newly obtained documents.

President Donald Trump announced he will deliver a primetime speech to the nation on Thursday. The address comes as tensions between the United States and Iran have sharply escalated. White House officials confirmed the speech, but did not provide specific details about its content. The announcement follows a series of events that have heightened fears of a potential conflict. Last week, the United States killed a top Iranian military commander in a drone strike, prompting threats of retaliation from Tehran. The attack was seen as a major escalation in the long-standing tensions between the two countries. In response, Iran has vowed to take revenge, and the US has deployed additional troops to the Middle East. Trump's address is expected to outline his administration's next steps and reassure the American public. The speech will be broadcast on major television networks. Critics have expressed concern that the situation could spiral into a broader war. The president has defended the strike as necessary to protect American lives. Observers will watch closely for any new policy announcements or shifts in strategy. The address marks a rare primetime appearance for Trump, who often communicates via social media.