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Housefull 5’ Enters Final Shooting Schedule

MUMBAI: The highly anticipated Bollywood comedy, Housefull 5, has begun its final shooting schedule, as confirmed by the film’s makers. This last phase includes significant scenes and the climactic song sequence, set to wrap up in the coming weeks.

Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, known for Dostana, the film is the fifth installment in the immensely popular Housefull franchise, produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. The movie boasts a star-studded ensemble, featuring Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, Fardeen Khan, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Sonam Bajwa, along with Bollywood veterans like Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, and Nana Patekar.

The team recently shared a glimpse of the cast on social media, posing on a cruise, symbolizing their journey toward the film’s conclusion. This franchise, which debuted in 2010, has consistently entertained audiences with its slapstick humor and grand visuals, with each installment expanding its scale and star cast.

The movie is slated for a theatrical release in mid-2025, and fans eagerly await the laughter-packed entertainer.

Ankita Singh, Web Team, C6N

Devendra Fadnavis Likely to Return as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister; Key Discussions Underway in Delhi

NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to host a critical meeting with Maharashtra’s political leaders to finalize the state’s CM and new government. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis is the frontrunner for the Chief Minister’s position, following the Mahayuti alliance’s resounding victory in the assembly elections. The meeting will include caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), where discussions will also cover the allocation of cabinet posts and the naming of two deputy chief ministers.

Eknath Shinde Steps Aside, Expresses Support for BJP’s Decision:
Despite his leadership during the alliance’s landslide win, Shinde has indicated he will support the BJP’s decision on the chief ministerial post. At a press conference in Thane, he reaffirmed his loyalty to the alliance, emphasizing, “I am a worker forever; for me, CM is not chief minister but common man.” Shinde also dismissed reports of dissatisfaction over stepping down, crediting the BJP for supporting his tenure.

Mahayuti’s Dominance in the Assembly:
The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a commanding 230 seats in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, with the BJP winning 132, Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction 57, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP 41. The opposition, led by the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, suffered significant losses, with the Congress securing only 16 seats and Uddhav Thackeray’s faction of Shiv Sena earning 20.

Swearing-In Ceremony Expected Soon:
Ajit Pawar hinted that the swearing-in ceremony could take place by the end of November or early December. Reports suggest Fadnavis will serve as the Chief Minister for the first half of the term, after which Shinde might take over, aligning with prior discussions within the alliance.

The political developments signal the BJP’s strategic consolidation of power in Maharashtra, with a focus on maintaining stability within the Mahayuti alliance.

Ankita Singh, Web Team C6N.

Govt Extends Second Phase of PM e-Drive Scheme to Boost Cargo Electric Three-Wheelers

MUMBAI: The Indian government has launched the second phase of the PM e-Drive Scheme, extending subsidies for electric cargo three-wheelers. This initiative aims to promote sustainable transportation while encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles in the logistics sector. The move follows the rapid uptake of electric cargo vehicles, with over 80,000 units registered by November 2024, exhausting the initial subsidy allocation for the current financial year.

Under this extended phase, the government will continue offering subsidies at a reduced rate. While the previous subsidy was capped at Rs 50,000 per vehicle, the new limit has been set at Rs 25,000 per vehicle. Additionally, the subsidy will now be based on Rs 2,500 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), down from the previous Rs 5,000 per kWh.

This change comes in response to the strong demand for electric three-wheelers, which now account for a significant share of the market. The government had initially targeted 80,546 units under the scheme for FY 2024-25, a goal that was met by the first week of November. With this extension, more buyers will be able to benefit from financial support as they transition to electric vehicles, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions in the transportation sector.

While the subsidy will be halved starting April 2025, this shift aligns with the government’s broader vision of reducing dependence on subsidies as the market matures. Key industry players like Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) and Bajaj Auto are at the forefront of the electric three-wheeler segment, with increased sales and adoption rates.

The PM e-Drive Scheme, which replaces the older FAME II program, focuses on accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles across various segments, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses, and trucks. The government has also committed to enhancing charging infrastructure, with plans to set up over 70,000 fast chargers nationwide.

As the electric vehicle market in India continues to grow, the reduced subsidy rates reflect a strategic shift toward sustainability and self-reliance in the sector.

Source: Web Team, C6N

Eknath Shinde: “PM Modi’s Decision on Maharashtra CM Will Be Final”

Amid speculations over Maharashtra’s next Chief Minister, Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde has affirmed his unwavering support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision. Speaking in Mumbai, Shinde described PM Modi as the “head of the family” and emphasized that he is not an obstacle in government formation.

“I have told the Prime Minister that if there is any issue in forming the government because of me, there should be no hesitation. Whatever decision he takes will have my full support. PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah should not consider me an obstacle,” Shinde stated.

Leadership and Commitment to the People

Eknath Shinde highlighted his dedication to public welfare throughout his tenure as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “Coming from a poor family, I have always understood the struggles of the common people. As a CM, I worked to uphold the ideals of Bal Thackeray and PM Modi. My satisfaction lies in serving Maharashtra, not in holding power.”

Shinde further reiterated his loyalty to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership, adding, “I am not someone who gets upset. My focus has always been on fighting for the people.”

BJP and Alliance Dynamics

The Mahayuti coalition, which secured a landslide victory with 230 seats in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, is witnessing internal discussions over the chief ministerial post. The BJP, emerging as the largest party with 132 seats, has backed Devendra Fadnavis as its preferred candidate.

BJP spokesperson Prem Shukla clarified, “Unlike Bihar, where the CM arrangement was pre-decided, no such commitment was made in Maharashtra. The decision will be based on merit and party consensus.”

Allies React

Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule lauded Shinde’s stance, calling him a “true Mahayuti leader” for respecting central leadership directives.

As reports of intense deliberations continue, Shinde will travel to Delhi to discuss Maharashtra’s leadership with PM Modi and Amit Shah, who are expected to make the final decision soon.

Khaleda Zia Acquitted: A Turning Point in Bangladesh Politics

Dhaka, Bangladesh – In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of Bangladesh has acquitted former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia in the Zia Charitable Trust corruption case. This decision, delivered on November 15, 2024, overturns the lower court’s 2018 ruling, which sentenced her to seven years in prison along with hefty fines.

The bench of Justices AKM Asaduzzaman and Syed Enayet Hossain cited insufficient evidence and procedural irregularities as reasons for dismissing the charges. The ruling also clears three other co-accused, marking the end of a prolonged legal battle that has drawn significant public and political attention.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) originally filed the case in 2007, accusing Zia and others of misappropriating funds under the guise of charitable initiatives. Zia has consistently maintained her innocence, claiming the case was politically motivated under the administration of her long-time rival, Sheikh Hasina of the Awami League.

This verdict comes against a backdrop of political turbulence in Bangladesh. The acquittal is expected to rejuvenate the BNP’s political momentum, with Zia poised to play a pivotal role in upcoming elections. Her release in August 2024 had already reignited party supporters’ morale, and this judicial victory further solidifies her position as a key opposition leader.

The ruling also raises questions about the role of Bangladesh’s judiciary in high-profile political cases. Analysts believe this decision might influence the political landscape, particularly as the nation prepares for its next electoral cycle.

Source: Web Team, C6N

ED Tightens Noose: Arrests Delhi Importers in Multi-Crore Birfa IT Case

NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has made significant arrests in connection with the high-profile Birfa IT case, targeting Delhi-based importers allegedly involved in money laundering activities. The arrests were made under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), further expanding the ongoing investigation into the intricate network of financial irregularities tied to Birfa IT.

The ED suspects that the accused importers were engaged in illegal cross-border transactions, manipulating import-export data to siphon off funds through shell companies. These activities reportedly contributed to significant financial losses to the exchequer while enabling large-scale tax evasion.

Searches were conducted across multiple locations, including Delhi, Gurugram, and other cities, leading to the seizure of incriminating documents, digital records, and unaccounted cash. Initial findings have revealed a complex trail of transactions implicating multiple parties in a widespread financial scam.

The Birfa IT case has gained national attention due to its implications on India’s regulatory and compliance frameworks. ED officials emphasized the importance of the investigation in upholding financial integrity and deterring similar crimes.

As the investigation progresses, the ED has been actively issuing summons to individuals and companies linked to the case. However, recent Delhi High Court rulings clarify that ED’s powers to issue summons under Section 50 of the PMLA do not include arrest authority, ensuring strict adherence to procedural laws.

Source: Web Team, C6N

Upholding the Dignity of the Chair: Chairman Dhankhar’s Appeal

NEW DELHI: In a recent session of the Rajya Sabha, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar underscored the critical need to uphold the dignity and authority of the parliamentary chair. His remarks come amidst heightened tensions between the ruling and opposition parties, with frequent disruptions marring the functioning of the Upper House.

Dhankhar expressed concern over what he described as an increasing disregard for the chair’s rulings, emphasizing that respect for the chair is fundamental to democratic discourse. In a pointed exchange with opposition leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Dhankhar highlighted the importance of decorum and urged members to avoid undermining the chair’s authority for political differences.

He further reminded the House of the historical sanctity associated with the position of the chair, stressing that personal or ideological disagreements should not erode its respect. “Never in the history of our democracy has the chair been subjected to such disregard,” Dhankhar stated, urging introspection among the members.

This appeal follows a pattern of heated debates where the Leader of Opposition and other members frequently clashed with the Chairman over procedural and substantive matters, often leading to adjournments. Despite these challenges, Dhankhar reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining impartiality while striving to ensure a conducive environment for legislative discussions.

The recurring tensions in the Rajya Sabha underscore a broader need for consensus-building and adherence to parliamentary norms, as the country navigates critical legislative agendas. As Dhankhar aptly noted, respect for the chair is not just a procedural obligation but a cornerstone of India’s democratic ethos.

Source: Web Team, C6N

China’s Defence Minister Faces Corruption Probe Amid Xi’s Military Crackdown

Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun has reportedly been placed under investigation for corruption, making him the third consecutive minister to face such allegations. Dong, a former navy commander, assumed office in December 2023 following the removal of Li Shangfu, who was expelled from the Communist Party for bribery. Li’s predecessor, Wei Fenghe, also faced similar charges.

President Xi Jinping’s intensified anti-corruption drive within the military aims to address graft concerns that could undermine China’s war readiness. Analysts have noted that corruption within the military, including its Rocket Force—a division overseeing China’s nuclear and conventional missiles—poses risks to operational integrity.

Experts suggest that corruption scandals erode morale and highlight the competitive nature of appointments in the People’s Liberation Army, with investigations often leading to cycles of arrests and new appointments. Beijing’s commitment to rooting out corruption reflects Xi’s broader aim to strengthen the military’s capabilities and reputation globally.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)

How to Identify Breast Cancer: Key Symptoms and Early Detection Tips

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, but early detection can greatly improve outcomes. Understanding the symptoms and knowing how to monitor changes in your breasts is crucial for timely intervention. Here’s a guide to recognizing the warning signs and ensuring regular screening.

Common Symptoms of Breast Cancer

1. Lumps or Masses
The presence of a painless, firm lump in the breast or underarm is one of the most common early signs. Not all lumps are cancerous, but any new mass should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

2. Changes in Breast Texture or Skin
Skin dimpling, thickening, or a puckered appearance might indicate underlying issues. In some cases, redness or a rash around the nipple can be linked to a rare form of breast cancer called Paget’s disease.

3. Alterations in Breast Shape or Size
Unexplained swelling or shrinkage of one breast, or changes in symmetry, should not be ignored.

4. Nipple Changes or Discharge
Look out for nipple inversion, scaling, redness, or unusual discharge, particularly if it is bloody or occurs without pressure.

5. Pain or Tenderness
While breast cancer doesn’t always cause pain, persistent discomfort in the breast or armpit area could be a concern if accompanied by other symptoms.

How to Monitor Changes

– Perform Self-Exams
While self-exams are no longer universally recommended, being aware of your breasts’ normal look and feel is essential. Check for visible changes in a mirror and gently palpate the breast and underarm areas for lumps or irregularities.

– Schedule Regular Screenings
Mammograms remain the gold standard for detecting breast cancer early. Women at average risk are typically advised to start biennial mammograms at age 40, though those with higher risks may need earlier or more frequent screenings.

Risk Factors and Awareness for Men
Though rare, men can also develop breast cancer. Symptoms such as a lump, nipple discharge, or skin changes in the chest area should prompt immediate medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you notice any unusual changes in your breasts, consult a healthcare professional promptly. They may recommend diagnostic tools such as a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy to determine the cause.

By staying vigilant about your breast health and attending regular screenings, you can play a proactive role in early detection and treatment. For more detailed information on breast cancer symptoms and screening recommendations, consult trusted medical resources like the American Cancer Society or Mayo Clinic.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)

Bangladesh High Court Orders Action Amid Growing Protests and Attacks on Hindus

A petition has been filed in Bangladesh’s High Court seeking a ban on the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). The petition, presented on Wednesday, calls for imposing a state of emergency in Chittagong and Rangpur to prevent further unrest, which has fueled nationwide protests.

The court, led by Justices Farah Mahbub and Debasish Roy Chowdhury, ordered the government to address the situation promptly, especially in light of increasing concerns over the safety of Hindus. The petition follows the arrest of prominent Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu, a vocal advocate for religious minorities, whom authorities detained on charges of sedition at Dhaka’s airport on November 25. This arrest has ignited protests across the country, with demonstrations turning violent. Clashes injured at least 20 individuals, and a lawyer tragically lost his life in the unrest outside a Chittagong court.

ISKCON condemned the arrest, calling for international intervention. An ISKCON spokesperson urged the United Nations to step in, stating, “The ongoing persecution of minorities in Bangladesh is unacceptable.” The organization has called for global support to ensure the safety of religious minorities, particularly Hindus, who have faced growing violence.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs expressed “deep concern” over the situation, pointing out the systematic attacks on Hindus and other minorities. “We urge Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety of Hindus and all minorities, as well as their right to peaceful assembly,” the statement read.

In response, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected India’s criticism, framing the arrest as an internal matter. The statement emphasized that the allegations against Chinmoy Krishna Das were based on specific charges and that India’s comments misrepresented the facts.

The rising violence and the government’s response have raised fears about the future of religious minorities in Bangladesh, with calls for stronger protections and international attention.