Category Archives: business

‘Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin questions Karur fact-finding mission

**‘Why No Panel for Manipur?’: Stalin Questions BJP’s Karur Fact-Finding Mission**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Oct 03, 2025, 03:32 PM*

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has sharply criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for sending a delegation of opposition MPs to Karur following the tragic stampede at a rally led by TVK chief Vijay, which resulted in 41 deaths.

### Stalin Questions BJP’s Selective Approach

Stalin highlighted that the BJP did not send similar fact-finding panels to BJP-ruled states like Manipur during times of ethnic violence, nor when a stampede occurred during the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh. He accused the party of having political motivations behind their actions in Karur.

### Political Motives Behind Karur Visit

Labeling the BJP’s visit as politically driven, Stalin said, “The BJP’s decision to dispatch a delegation to Karur was not out of concern for Tamil Nadu but because of the upcoming elections.”

He further criticized Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s visit to Karur, pointing out that she had ignored Tamil Nadu during three major natural disasters but chose to come after the stampede. Stalin stated, “The BJP is a parasite surviving by sucking the blood of others.”

### BJP Delegation Visits Karur: Hema Malini’s Criticism of Tamil Nadu Government

The BJP’s eight-member team, led by actor and MP Hema Malini, met with the families of those affected by the tragedy. Speaking to the media after the visit, Malini slammed the DMK government, saying it was unfair for a rally featuring a star of Vijay’s stature to be held in a limited space. She claimed that many women and young girls had come to see Vijay and that the TVK had requested a larger venue, which was denied.

### BJP Demands Report on Stampede Causes

The BJP delegation has demanded a detailed report from Stalin outlining the primary factors that led to the stampede. However, they have no legal or constitutional authority to insist on such a report. Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur wrote to Stalin seeking information on the preventive measures planned to avoid similar incidents in the future.

In response, Stalin announced a judicial inquiry headed by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan and assured that safety guidelines for future political events would be implemented.

*This incident has further intensified the ongoing tussle between the Tamil Nadu state government and the central government over fund disbursement and governance issues.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/no-panel-for-manipur-stalin-questions-bjp-mps-karur-visit/story

‘Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin questions Karur fact-finding mission

**‘Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin Questions BJP’s Karur Fact-Finding Mission**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Oct 03, 2025, 03:32 PM*

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for sending a delegation of opposition MPs to Karur following a deadly stampede at a rally organized by TVK chief Vijay, which tragically claimed 41 lives.

### Political Motives Behind Karur Visit

Stalin accused the BJP of politicizing the tragedy, asserting that the decision to send a fact-finding teams was motivated by the upcoming elections rather than genuine concern for Tamil Nadu. He questioned why similar delegations were never dispatched to BJP-ruled states like Manipur during times of ethnic violence, or to Uttar Pradesh following the Maha Kumbh stampede.

Highlighting the perceived political nature of the BJP’s actions, Stalin said, “When Tamil Nadu faced three major natural disasters, the Union Finance Minister did not bother to visit. Yet, she made a special trip to Karur. The BJP is like a parasite surviving by sucking the blood of others.”

### Finance Minister’s Controversial Visit

Stalin also took aim at Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s visit to Karur, describing it as a “representative” gesture of the central government lacking sincerity. His remarks underline the ongoing friction between the Tamil Nadu government and the BJP-led Union government, especially concerning delayed fund disbursements and disaster response.

### BJP Delegation’s Visit and Response

The BJP dispatched an eight-member delegation, led by actor and MP Hema Malini, to Karur to meet the families of the victims. After the visit, Malini publicly criticized the DMK government, claiming it had failed to provide adequate space for the rally. She remarked, “For a star of his stature, that was unfair. Many women and young girls had come to see Vijay.” She added that the TVK had actually requested a larger venue.

### Demand for a Detailed Report

In the wake of the stampede, the BJP delegation has demanded a comprehensive report from Stalin’s government outlining the primary factors that led to the tragedy. Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur wrote to Stalin urging him to implement measures that would prevent similar incidents in the future.

In response, Stalin announced the launch of a judicial inquiry headed by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan. He also promised to issue new safety guidelines aimed at ensuring security during political events moving forward.

This incident and the subsequent political exchanges reflect the tense atmosphere between Tamil Nadu’s state government and the Union government, with both sides attributing blame amid growing electoral stakes.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/no-panel-for-manipur-stalin-questions-bjp-mps-karur-visit/story

‘Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin questions Karur fact-finding mission

**’Why no panel for Manipur?’: Stalin Questions BJP’s Karur Fact-Finding Mission**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Oct 03, 2025, 03:32 PM*

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for sending a delegation of opposition MPs to Karur in the aftermath of a deadly stampede that claimed 41 lives at a rally organized by TVK chief Vijay.

Stalin questioned why similar panels were not dispatched to BJP-ruled states like Manipur following ethnic violence or during the Maha Kumbh stampede in Uttar Pradesh. He accused the BJP of pursuing political motives rather than genuine concern through such actions.

**Political Motives Behind Karur Visit**

Stalin alleged that the BJP’s initiative to send a fact-finding team to Karur was driven by the upcoming elections rather than a sincere care for Tamil Nadu. He also took aim at Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s visit to Karur, calling it a mere “representative” gesture by the central government.

“When Tamil Nadu faced three major natural disasters, the Union Finance Minister did not visit the state, but she chose to come to Karur. The BJP is a parasite surviving by sucking the blood of others,” Stalin remarked.

**BJP Delegation’s Visit and Criticism**

The BJP’s eight-member delegation, led by actor and MP Hema Malini, met with families of the victims in Karur. Following the meeting, Malini criticized the Stalin government for not providing a larger venue for the rally. She stated, “For a star of his stature, this was unfair. Many women and young girls had come to see Vijay.” She also mentioned that TVK had requested more space for the gathering.

**Demand for Report and Inquiry**

The BJP delegation has called on Stalin to submit a detailed report outlining the primary factors that led to the stampede, despite lacking any legal or constitutional authority to demand such a report. Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur wrote to Stalin seeking information on measures being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In response, Stalin announced a judicial inquiry headed by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan and promised the implementation of safety guidelines for upcoming political events.

*This incident has further strained the ongoing dispute between the Tamil Nadu government and the central government over fund disbursement and administrative cooperation.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/no-panel-for-manipur-stalin-questions-bjp-mps-karur-visit/story

OpenAI denies poaching xAI staff, labels Musk’s lawsuit groundless

OpenAI is moving to have a lawsuit filed by Elon Musk’s AI start-up, xAI, dismissed. The company argues that the lawsuit is an attempt to divert attention from xAI’s own shortcomings.

According to OpenAI, the legal action lacks merit and serves primarily as a distraction from the challenges facing xAI. Details of the case and further developments are awaited as both companies continue to navigate the competitive AI landscape.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/openai-seeks-dismissal-of-xai-lawsuit-calls-it-groundless/story

OpenAI denies poaching xAI staff, labels Musk’s lawsuit groundless

OpenAI is seeking to have a lawsuit filed by Elon Musk’s AI start-up, xAI, dismissed.

The company claims that the lawsuit is an attempt to distract from xAI’s own shortcomings and failures.

This legal action highlights the ongoing tensions between major players in the rapidly evolving AI industry. OpenAI remains firm in its position, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and integrity amidst these challenges.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/openai-seeks-dismissal-of-xai-lawsuit-calls-it-groundless/story

Finance Ministry Orders Fact-Based Inquiry After Wintrack Inc Alleges Corruption, Harassment By Chennai Customs

**Finance Ministry Orders Inquiry into Wintrack Inc’s Allegations of Corruption and Harassment Against Chennai Customs**

*New Delhi:* The Finance Ministry announced on Thursday that the Department of Revenue (DoR) has been instructed to conduct a fair, transparent, and fact-based inquiry following allegations of corruption and harassment made by Wintrack Inc (Chennai) against Chennai Customs. The matter is being treated with utmost seriousness.

In a post on X, the Finance Ministry stated that the Government is committed to taking appropriate and expeditious action in accordance with the law and continues to focus on enhancing the ease of doing business.

Wintrack Inc had on Wednesday declared that it would “cease import/export activities in India” from October 1, citing relentless harassment by Chennai Customs officials over the past 45 days.

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) responded on Wednesday, stating that the issue relates to misdeclaration and misclassification by the importer. The CBIC also mentioned that Chennai Customs has already responded on this aspect and that necessary legal action will be taken.

In its latest post on X, the Finance Ministry confirmed that the Government has taken cognizance of the issue raised by M/s Wintrack Inc (Chennai). A senior DoR officer has been deputed to conduct a detailed factual inquiry, including hearing the concerned parties and officials, and thoroughly examining all relevant documentary evidence.

The Ministry highlighted that in recent years, the Government has implemented several taxpayer-friendly initiatives such as the adoption of the Taxpayer Charter, the introduction of faceless customs procedures, and the establishment of appellate bodies for dispute resolution. These measures aim to enhance transparency and promote ease of doing business.

“The matter is being dealt with utmost seriousness, and the Government is committed to taking appropriate and expeditious action in accordance with the law. It is reiterated that the Government is committed to enhancing ease of doing business,” the Finance Ministry added.

### Wintrack Inc’s Allegations

Wintrack Inc alleged that Chennai Customs retaliated after their bribery practices were exposed twice this year. In a post on X, the company stated:

> “From October 1, 2025, our company will cease import/export activities in India. For the past 45 days, Chennai Customs officials have relentlessly harassed us. After exposing their bribery practices twice this year, they retaliated, effectively crippling our operations and destroying our business in India. We deeply thank everyone who has supported us during these difficult times.”

In another post, Wintrack Inc’s founder, Prawin Ganeshan, shared a video outlining the sequence of events leading to their closure. He urged people to unite against corruption on Gandhi Jayanti:

> “I will stay alive, I will survive, never give up. On this Gandhi Jayanti, let’s all join together to reduce, abolish corrupt hands. I have lost my health, got stress, still little left.”

### Founder’s Account of Events

In the video, Ganeshan recounted incidents starting in January when, after refusing to pay an alleged bribe on a shipment, he recorded a call with an agent and shared it publicly. The shipment was eventually released, and the issue was resolved. He even thanked the customs officials at that time.

However, Ganeshan claimed that problems resurfaced between May and August with escalating bribe demands leading to repeated delays or holds on shipments. He alleged abusive language and continual obstacles related to his consignments.

Even when attempting imports through a new company registered in his wife’s name, similar demands and delays persisted.

He concluded with a firm stance:

> “I decided I’m no longer going to do business in India in the form of importer, exporter, anything… I just appeal to all importers and exporters, if each one of you also raises your voice against this kind of bribery and corruption, then only can everything be abolished.”

### CBIC’s Response

On Wednesday night, the CBIC responded to Wintrack Inc’s allegations, tagging the Finance Ministry and the office of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The CBIC stated:

> “Regarding the allegations of corruption against Chennai Customs raised by @PrawinGaneshan on Twitter, it is clarified that the issue pertains to misdeclaration and misclassification by the importer. Chennai Customs has already responded on this aspect. Subsequently, the importer has shared certain names and screenshots on Twitter. The matter has been noted, and all facts will be duly examined. Necessary action, as warranted under the law, will be taken.”

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/finance-ministry-orders-fact-based-inquiry-after-wintrack-inc-alleges-corruption-harassment-by-chennai-customs

RisuCon loadout tomorrow…

…which means I should, like, prep for that. I’ve been cheerfully ignoring it for three weeks now, which is not very businesslike of me. I plead an attack of real life, and will go take care of it now.

[UPDATE: That was less of a chore than I’d thought it’d be, but I forgot a … Continue reading RisuCon loadout tomorrow…
https://moelane.com/2025/10/02/risucon-loadout-tomorrow/

OpenAI valuation soars to $500B in private share sale – reports

PARIS, France — The valuation of ChatGPT developer OpenAI soared to a chart-topping $500 billion in a deal allowing employees to sell a limited number of shares, financial media reported Thursday.

If confirmed, the sale of a reported $6.6 billion in shares by OpenAI workers to investors would make the company the world’s most valuable startup, overtaking Elon Musk’s ventures.

https://business.inquirer.net/550437/openai-valuation-soars-to-500b-in-private-share-sale-reports

PVL: Anyse Smith eyes ‘bigger impact’ in Choco Mucho stint

MANILA, Philippines — Anyse “Marlee” Smith is ready to step up for fan favorite Choco Mucho in the PVL Reinforced Conference starting Tuesday at Ynares Center Montalban.

Following a dazzling stint with Thai club Nakhon Ratchasima in the AVC Champions League hosted by the Philippines last May, Smith is eager to bring her talent and energy to the court once again.

Fans can look forward to seeing her impact as she takes on new challenges with Choco Mucho in the upcoming conference.
https://sports.inquirer.net/642674/pvl-anyse-smith-eyes-bigger-impact-in-choco-mucho-stint

‘Kantara’ gets its own comic series amid ‘Chapter 1’ release

**‘Kantara’ Gets Its Own Comic Series Amid ‘Chapter 1’ Release**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Oct 02, 2025, 10:50 AM*

Rishab Shetty’s highly anticipated film, *Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1*, hit theaters on Thursday, much to the excitement of fans. To celebrate the release of this sequel, Hombale Films and Shetty have teamed up with Toonsutra, India’s largest comic and webtoon platform, to bring the cinematic phenomenon *Kantara* to life in a brand-new format—digital comics and graphic novels.

### How to Read the ‘Kantara’ Comic Series

Fans eager to dive deeper into the *Kantara* universe can access the comic series by downloading the Toonsutra app on their smartphones or tablets. Alternatively, the comics are also available online via the Toonsutra website. The first chapters are free to read, offering an easy entry point to explore this new creative dimension of the film.

Don’t miss out on experiencing *Kantara* in an exciting new way as the story unfolds both on screen and on the page!

### Everything to Know About *Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1*

The film stars Sapthami Gowda, Achyuth Kumar, and Kishore in lead roles, delivering powerful performances that have captivated audiences. Behind the scenes, Arvind S Kashyap serves as Director of Photography, while B Ajaneesh Loknath composes the music and background score, adding depth to the film’s immersive atmosphere.

Key creative roles include Banglan as Production Designer, Pragathi Shetty handling Costume Design, and Dharani Gangeputra overseeing Art Direction. The action sequences are expertly choreographed by a talented team comprising Arjun Raj, Ram-Laxman, Todor Lazarov, Mahesh Mathew, and Mithun Singh Rajput.

With its gripping storyline, stunning visuals, and now an engaging comic series, *Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1* continues to expand its universe and captivate audiences across mediums.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/rishab-shetty-s-kantara-transforms-into-toonsutra-comic/story