Category Archives: politics

Suryakumar Yadav Fined 30% Of His Match Fees For His Tribute To Indian Armed Forces After India Vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Clash

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has been fined 30 percent of his match fee for comments made after the Asia Cup group league match against Pakistan, tournament organisers announced on Friday.

The penalty follows Suryakumar’s remarks alluding to the military skirmish between India and Pakistan in May. Pakistan had filed a complaint with the ICC, accusing him of making political comments after he dedicated India’s win over their archrivals on September 14 to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and the Indian armed forces.

Suryakumar pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was reportedly instructed to refrain from making any statements that could be interpreted as political for the remainder of the tournament. The hearing was conducted by ICC match referee Richie Richardson.

Tensions between the two teams have been high throughout the tournament. The situation escalated when India refused to engage in the traditional handshake with Pakistani players at the toss and after the games, as a gesture of solidarity with the Pahalgam victims.

(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/sports/suryakumar-yadav-fined-30-of-his-match-fees-for-his-tribute-to-indian-armed-forces-after-india-vs-pakistan-asia-cup-2025-clash

Ogun Assembly receives Abiodun’s request seeking approval for 2026-2028 MTEF

Ogun State House of Assembly has acknowledged a correspondence from the State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, seeking approval for the 2026-2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for the state.

The Speaker, Oludaisi Elemide, on Friday stated that the request aligns with the Ogun State Fiscal Responsibility Law of 2020 (as amended).

DAILY POST reports that the governor’s letter is titled “Request for the Approval of the 2026-2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) by the State House of Assembly.”

According to the letter, the Executive Council has reviewed and endorsed the prepared 2026-2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework. Governor Abiodun urged the Assembly to consider and approve the framework to facilitate the planning and budgetary process for the 2026 fiscal year, as well as the outer years of 2027 and 2028.

Following this, the Speaker referred the request to the House Committee on Finance and Appropriations for further legislative action.
https://dailypost.ng/2025/09/26/ogun-assembly-receives-abioduns-request-seeking-approval-for-2026-2028-mtef/

‘One Of My Statements Was Edited’: Ruta Awhad Clarifies After Comparing Abdul Kalam To Osama Bin Laden

Just hours after her video comparing former Indian president Abdul Kalam to Al Qaeda terrorist Osama Bin Laden went viral, Ruta Awhad, wife of Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar) MLA Jitendra Awhad, sought to clarify her statement.

As reported by news agency ANI, Awhad blamed editing for her statements being taken out of context. Regarding her statement urging people to read Osama Bin Laden’s autobiography, she said that she was encouraging youngsters to take their minds off mobile phones and read books.

“…Nobody is good or bad by birth but he became so bad…” she said, as quoted by ANI.

### What Did Ruta Awhad Say Previously?

Awhad’s video created quite a stir. In the clip, she can be heard saying in Hindi:
“Read the biography of Osama Bin Laden. Just like APJ Abdul Kalam became Kalam Saheb, Osama became a terrorist. But why did he become a terrorist? He was not born one. Society made him one. He became a terrorist out of frustration.”

### BJP’s Response

The BJP went on the offensive following Ruta Awhad’s comment. Party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla accused the INDIA alliance of having a ‘soft corner’ for terrorists.

In a press conference, he mentioned a list of Opposition leaders and accused them of supporting terrorists like Ajmal Amir Kasab, Afzal Guru, and more.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/one-of-my-statements-was-edited-ruta-awhad-clarifies-after-comparing-abdul-kalam-to-osama-bin-laden-video

Trump says Ireland and US will ‘work closely’ as new embassy opens in Washington

US President Donald Trump expressed his eagerness to “work closely” with Ireland to strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two nations.

This announcement coincided with Tanaiste Simon Harris formally opening the new offices of the Irish Embassy in the United States, located in Washington, DC. The new Embassy, situated on Pennsylvania Avenue next to the White House, was warmly welcomed by President Trump, who emphasized his commitment to advancing fair trade policies and investment opportunities that benefit the citizens of both countries.

Speaking in Washington, DC, the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade said:
“I want to thank President Trump for his kind words as we begin to write the next chapter in the great story of Ireland-US relations. These offices at 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, next to the White House, represent the culmination of a nearly four-year project to realize a significant commitment of the Global Ireland Strategy and National Development Plan.”

He continued, “This will be an excellent base from which to grow our vital political, economic, and cultural ties with the US over the years ahead. Our ambition stretches beyond Washington, DC too. The Government has deepened its investment in our diplomatic platform across the United States recently, with new Ireland Houses in New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, as well as new Consulates in Los Angeles and Miami.”

Mr. Harris also announced the launch of an economic impact report that maps Ireland’s economic footprint across the US. The report highlights the remarkable impact of the Ireland-US partnership in trade, employment, research, tourism, and investment.

Ireland is now the 5th largest source of foreign direct investment in America, with Irish companies creating more than 200,000 American jobs.

This growing collaboration promises a continued strengthening of ties and mutual prosperity between Ireland and the United States.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/trump-says-ireland-and-us-will-work-closely-as-new-embassy-opens-in-washington-1811131.html

Trump imposes 100 pc tariff on imported drugs without US manufacturing base

Former President Donald Trump has clarified the scope of his recent tariff measures, stating that companies that have already begun construction of plants in the U.S. will be exempt from the new pharmaceutical tariffs. In a post, he wrote, “There will, therefore, be no Tariff on these Pharmaceutical Products if construction has started. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

Trump also announced sweeping tariffs on a variety of household products, including imported kitchen cabinets and certain types of furniture, potentially adding to the rising costs in this category seen in recent months. According to CNN, Trump detailed the new tariffs in a Truth Social post, stating:

“We will be imposing a 50 percent Tariff on all Kitchen Cabinets, Bathroom Vanities, and associated products, starting October 1st, 2025. Additionally, we will be charging a 30 percent Tariff on Upholstered Furniture.”

These tariffs come amidst a notable increase in furniture prices over the past year. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that overall furniture costs rose 4.7 percent compared to August 2024. Specifically, living room and dining room furniture prices jumped 9.5 percent over the last 12 months.

The surge in furniture prices is closely linked to recent tariff hikes on imports from China and Vietnam, the two largest sources of imported furniture into the U.S. Last year, both countries exported approximately USD 12 billion worth of furniture and fixtures, according to data from the U.S. Commerce Department. Notably, furniture prices had generally declined for about two and a half years before these tariffs were introduced.

Trump defended the tariffs, arguing that foreign manufacturers have been oversupplying the U.S. market. He described the large-scale “flooding” of products from other countries as “a very unfair practice,” emphasizing the need to protect U.S. manufacturing for national security and other reasons.

Meanwhile, new tariff rates affecting dozens of countries were introduced in August, following delays that allowed time for trade negotiations. These include:

– 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods, with an additional 25 percent penalty for trade related to Russia
– 50 percent tariffs on Brazilian goods
– 30 percent tariffs on South African goods
– 20 percent tariffs on Vietnamese goods
– 15 percent tariffs on Japanese goods
– 15 percent tariffs on South Korean goods

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content at their absolute discretion and without prior notice.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/donald-trump-announces-100-per-cent-tariff-on-imported-pharmaceuticals-without-us-based-manufacturing-plants-23595880

IDF evacuation of Gaza City reaches 700,000 civilians

**IDF Evacuation of Gaza City Reaches 700,000 Civilians**

The evacuation efforts led by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza City have reached approximately 700,000 civilians. Despite this significant movement, around 300,000 Palestinian civilians still remain in the area.

The general population continues to evacuate amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Many Palestinians are making their way out of the region to seek safety.

![Palestinians evacuating amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas travel on a vehicle in Khan Younis in the Southern Gaza Strip, May 6, 2024. (Photo Credit: Ramadan Abed/Reuters)](URL-to-image)

By Yonah Jeremy Bob
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868625

Trump says he had good talks on Gaza, including with Netanyahu

**Trump Says He Had Good Talks on Gaza, Including with Netanyahu**

U.S. President Donald Trump reported progress in talks concerning Gaza, including discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Speaking during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York City on September 23, 2025, Trump highlighted positive developments in the ongoing efforts to address the situation in Gaza.

*Photo credit: REUTERS/JEENAH MOON*

By Reuters, Amichai Stein
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868630

MP News: ‘Congress’ Hurry May Be Harmful For OBC Category,’ Says CM Mohan Yadav

**Supreme Court to Hear OBC Reservation Case from October 8**

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the OBC reservation case starting October 8. Originally set for a Wednesday hearing, the date was further extended.

The Congress party has accused the government of not presenting the case properly before the apex court. In response, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav advised the party against rushing the process. He emphasized that any haste could be detrimental to the interests of the OBC community and noted that an all-party meeting had been convened to ensure unity.

“Only unity before the court will be helpful,” Yadav said. He added that the case to restore 13% reservation in held posts was pleaded collectively by all parties. Highlighting the complexity of the matter, Yadav mentioned that over 15,000 documents have been filed in connection with the case. The government has informed the Supreme Court that it should consider the views of all parties whenever it hears the matter.

“Our aim is to benefit each category—SC, ST, and OBC—under the reservation policy,” Yadav stated.

**Government Advocates Accused of Being Unprepared**

Reacting to Chief Minister Yadav’s remarks, Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Jitu Patwari said, “If the party does not react, the government will do nothing.”

Patwari recalled that when his government granted 27% reservation to the OBC, the BJP’s proxy team challenged the move in court. He noted that this legal battle has been ongoing for six years.

At a recent meeting, it was decided that government lawyers would first argue to restore 13% of the reserved posts. However, instead of taking this step, the government sought to postpone the hearing by four months, prompting a reprimand from the court, Patwari said.

According to him, the government does not appear willing to grant the OBC quota, which is the root cause of the delay and inaction.

This case remains a focal point in the state’s politics as stakeholders await a resolution that balances reservation benefits across communities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-news-congress-hurry-may-be-harmful-for-obc-category-says-cm-mohan-yadav

Uttar Pradesh News: President Droupadi Murmu Visits Mathura; Offers Prayers At Iconic Temples Amid Tight Security

**President Droupadi Murmu Visits Mathura Aboard Luxury Maharaja Express**

Mathura: President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Mathura on Thursday morning aboard the luxury Maharaja Express train for a day-long visit. The special train, equipped with a Presidential suite, deluxe suites, restaurants, and lounges, brought the President and her delegation to Vrindavan Road railway station at 10 a.m.

**Temple Visits and Prayers**

According to the President’s office, her itinerary for the day includes prayers at several revered sites: Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Nidhivan, Kubja Krishna Temple, and Shri Krishna Janmsthan in Mathura. Additionally, she will visit Sudama Kuti during the day.

A special ‘maha aarti’ has been planned at the 500-year-old Kubja Krishna Temple, where prayers will be dedicated to world peace and the health of critically ill patients.

**Reception and Security Measures**

District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh confirmed that the President was warmly received by Minister for Sugarcane Development and Sugar Industry Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, Mayor Vinod Kumar Agarwal, and senior officials.

To ensure the utmost security, more than 4,000 police personnel have been deployed across the city. This effort is supported by eight companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary as well as ATS commandos. Central security agencies have also been deployed to augment the safety arrangements, and a strict no-fly zone remains in effect over the city.

**Traffic and Surveillance**

Senior Superintendent of Police Shlok Kumar stated that surveillance measures include active monitoring of social media and prompt reporting of any suspicious activities. Traffic has been diverted along the President’s convoy routes to facilitate smooth movement.

Furthermore, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which prohibits gatherings of more than five people, has been strictly enforced throughout the city during the visit.

**Return to Delhi**

After concluding her engagements in Mathura, the President’s special train is scheduled to depart from Mathura Junction in the evening, returning to Delhi.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/uttar-pradesh-news-president-droupadi-murmu-visits-mathura-offers-prayers-at-iconic-temples-amid-tight-security

HC upholds Karnataka`s socio-economic survey, mandates voluntary participation

The court has emphasized the importance of strict confidentiality in handling survey data. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that no personal or sensitive information collected is made public or shared with any unauthorized entities, ANI reported.

Senior Advocate Vivek Reddy, representing the petitioners, criticized the survey process, calling it flawed. He stated, “First of all, the division of caste is not correct by the state government. The entire exercise is flawed because there is no proper head caste and sub-caste. When we are undergoing a survey of this comprehensive nature, it should be scientific and clear. They have included various other groups that were not included in the survey. Our main concern is regarding the creation of an artificial caste to manipulate the survey and take it in the wrong direction. There was also a concern regarding data storage and protection.”

On September 12, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the launch of a large-scale caste-based socio-economic survey aimed at assessing the state’s socio-educational landscape. The initiative is being carried out under the leadership of Madhusudan Naik, Chairman of the Backward Classes (BC) Commission, along with five commission members. The survey, targeting approximately seven crore residents, is scheduled to take place between September 22 and October 7.

Despite opposition criticism, CM Siddaramaiah has remained firm on the government’s position. Speaking to reporters, he said, “The BJP is doing politics on this issue and accusing the Congress government of being anti-Hindu. All the ministers have been instructed to condemn this unanimously. The survey will start from September 22, and will not be postponed.”

Earlier in July, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy presented the Telangana Socio-Economic Survey Model and Methodology at Indira Bhawan in New Delhi. Highlighting the survey’s comprehensive approach, Reddy explained that the initiative was not just a caste survey, but a social, economic, educational, employment, and political survey.

According to Telangana’s data, Other Backward Classes (OBCs), including practising Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and Buddhists, comprise 56.4 percent of the state’s population. Scheduled Castes (SCs) make up 17.4 percent, Scheduled Tribes (STs) 10.8 percent, and forward castes 10.9 percent. Additionally, 3.9 percent of the population has been categorized as having no caste, the report noted.

The survey also documented previously unlisted castes and assessed their socio-economic status by name and location, providing a detailed understanding of the community dynamics within the state.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/karnataka-hc-upholds-socio-economic-survey-but-mandates-voluntary-participation-and-data-privacy-23595801