Politics28 min ago
Kerala orders probe into drone survey at disputed Aranmula airport site
The Kerala Revenue department has ordered an investigation into a drone survey conducted at the site of the proposed Aranmula airport in Pathanamthitta district. The District Collector confirmed that reports have been sought from the local Tahsildar and village officer regarding the survey. Authorities have also stated that no further drone surveys will be permitted at the site until the probe is complete. The Aranmula airport project, which has been mired in controversy over environmental and land acquisition issues, has faced strong opposition from local residents and activists. The drone survey reportedly took place without proper authorization, raising concerns about legal and procedural violations. The Revenue department's action follows complaints from local groups who questioned the legitimacy of the survey. The district administration has assured that strict action will be taken if any irregularities are found. The probe aims to determine who authorized the survey and whether proper protocols were followed. This development adds another layer of complexity to the long-delayed airport project, which has been a contentious issue in the region for years.
The Hindu
Politics28 min ago
Mojtaba Khamenei's Absence at Father's Funeral Raises Questions
Mojtaba Khamenei, a 56-year-old cleric and the eldest son of Iran's late Supreme Leader, was notably absent during the funeral prayers for his father last week. Instead, three of his brothers led the prayers, sparking speculation about his public role and future leadership ambitions. The funeral, a major national event, drew large crowds and high-ranking officials. Khamenei's absence has led to questions about whether he is ready to step into the public eye or if internal family dynamics are at play. Observers note that in Iranian political tradition, the eldest son often plays a prominent role in such ceremonies. Mojtaba Khamenei has long been considered a potential successor, but his low profile in recent years has fueled uncertainty. The memorial services may offer clues about his next steps. However, no official statements have been made regarding his absence or future plans. The situation remains fluid as Iran navigates the transition following the death of its longtime leader.
NDTV World
Politics30 min ago
Malaysia's top court acquits young lawmaker Syed Saddiq, ending long corruption case
Malaysia's Federal Court has dismissed the final appeal in the corruption case against lawmaker Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, effectively ending a six-year legal battle. The court ruled 2-1 on Monday to uphold his acquittal on four charges linked to criminal breach of trust and money laundering. Syed Saddiq, a former youth minister and one of Malaysia's most prominent young politicians, had faced allegations related to the misappropriation of funds from a political party. The case threatened to derail his political career. However, the top court's decision now allows him to walk free without any criminal record. The majority judges, Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali and Collin Lawrence Sequerah, agreed with the lower court's findings that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Syed Saddiq had consistently maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings. The acquittal brings closure to a saga that has captivated the public and raised questions about the treatment of young leaders in the country's political landscape. Syed Saddiq is known for his role in the youth-oriented party Muda, which he founded after leaving the ruling coalition. His legal team expressed relief at the outcome, while prosecutors have not indicated further action.
SCMP
Politics30 min ago
Report: UK suspension of family reunions leaves 16,000 refugees stranded
More than 16,000 refugees have been unable to reunite with their families in the UK since the government suspended the family reunion route last September, according to the Refugee Council. The suspension has left many people stuck in conflict zones or forced to use people smugglers to reach safety.
The family reunion route allowed refugees granted status in the UK to bring immediate family members—such as a spouse and children under 18—to join them. The government indicated the suspension would last until spring 2026, but the Refugee Council warns that the policy is causing severe hardship.
Without this legal route, families are separated indefinitely. Some have resorted to dangerous journeys organized by smugglers to reunite with loved ones in the UK. The Refugee Council urges the government to restore the family reunion route immediately, calling it a vital protection for vulnerable people.
The UK government has not yet commented on the report. Critics say the suspension undermines the UK's commitment to refugee protection and family unity.
The Guardian
Politics1 hr ago
Karnataka Requests Elephant Donation from Kerala for Temple
The Karnataka government has asked Kerala to donate a female elephant for a temple. In a letter, Karnataka Chief Minister requested his Kerala counterpart to help transfer a female elephant from any willing temple in Kerala to the Mookambika Temple in Karnataka. The request comes after Kerala earlier declined a similar request from Telangana for camp elephants. Both states have rules governing the transfer of elephants within and outside their borders. Elephants are often used in temple rituals in South India, and such transfers require official permissions. The Mookambika Temple is a prominent Hindu shrine in Karnataka's Kollur. The Karnataka government's request highlights the ongoing need for temple elephants, which are considered sacred. However, Kerala has strict regulations on elephant ownership and transfer to ensure animal welfare. It remains to be seen whether Kerala will agree to this request, given its previous refusal to Telangana. The matter involves interstate cooperation and adherence to wildlife laws.
The Hindu
Politics1 hr ago
Kavitha’s Party Argues Name Similarity Not Grounds for Rejection, Seeks Personal Hearing
The Telangana Rakshana Sena, founded by Kavitha, has defended its party name before the Election Commission of India (ECI). The party argued that similarity in names alone cannot justify rejection, citing several examples. It pointed to the existence of multiple 'Aam Aadmi' parties, as well as 'Praja Sena' and 'Praja Seva' variations, and different Republican Party offshoots. The party contended that if these were allowed, its own name should also be accepted. Seeking a fair hearing, the Telangana Rakshana Sena requested a personal appearance before the ECI to present its case. The ECI had earlier raised objections to the party's name, citing potential confusion with existing parties. The party's response comes as it prepares for upcoming elections in Telangana. The matter now awaits the ECI's decision on the request for a personal hearing.
The Hindu