New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality continues to deteriorate, with the AQI crossing 300 in multiple areas, entering the ‘very poor’ category. Key areas like Anand Vihar and Wazirpur saw AQI levels of 334 and 390, respectively, with smog covering large parts of the capital. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 1 is now in place, including dust control measures.
Experts warn that stubble burning from neighboring states could worsen the situation. Environment Minister Gopal Rai urged immediate local interventions, while BJP criticized AAP’s ineffective pollution control efforts.
Resident Ashish Kumar Meena said, “The air is choking us, especially near Akshardham; the government must act before it worsens after Diwali.”
Forecasts predict the air quality will continue to worsen over the weekend.
Adv Ashish Fule, BA,LLB is a Constitutional Expert
Nagpur: The imagery of Lady Justice has long served as a powerful symbol within the legal framework of India, embodying the core ideals of fairness, impartiality, and authority. As society evolves, so too must its symbols. This principle has recently manifested in the transformation of the statue of Lady Justice at the Supreme Court of India, reflecting both a departure from colonial legacies and an embrace of contemporary democratic values.
The previous statue of Lady Justice at the Supreme Court was a familiar sight to many Indians. It depicted her as a blindfolded figure holding a sword in one hand and scales in the other. The blindfold symbolized the idea that justice is blind—implying that it should be administered impartially, without bias towards wealth, status, or power. This representation, deeply rooted in Western traditions, echoed the ideals of figures like the Greek goddess Themis and the Roman Justitia
For the common public, this imagery conveyed a sense of assurance that justice would prevail regardless of external influences. However, it also sparked criticism and debate. Many citizens felt that the concept of “blind justice” could lead to a lack of sensitivity towards the nuances of individual cases and the realities faced by marginalized communities. While the blindfold represented impartiality, it also risked suggesting ignorance of the societal complexities that influence legal outcomes
As India seeks to redefine its identity in the post-colonial era, the old idol began to be seen as an anachronism. The sword, representing authority, often overshadowed the principles of democracy and fairness. This imagery, while historically significant, became increasingly viewed as outdated in a nation striving for equality and inclusivity
The transformation of Lady Justice is not merely about aesthetics; it signifies a broader need within the Indian judiciary for symbols that resonate with the current societal values and aspirations. The public’s call for a more responsive legal system that acknowledges the complexities of justice has been growing, emphasizing the necessity for a representation that aligns with modern Indian society
On October 16, 2024, the Supreme Court unveiled a new statue of Lady Justice, signifying a pivotal shift in the representation of justice in the country. This modern idol features several key changes:
1. Open Eyes: The removal of the blindfold marks a significant departure from tradition. The open eyes symbolize awareness of societal complexities, reinforcing the notion that the law should not be ignorant of the realities faced by citizens
2. The Constitution: Instead of a sword, the new statue holds a copy of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing that justice must be grounded in constitutional values rather than punitive authority. This shift signifies a commitment to upholding democracy and the rule of law, reflecting the core tenets of the Indian judicial system
3. Retained Scales of Justice: While the statue has evolved, it retains the scales in Lady Justice’s hand, symbolizing the careful consideration required in judicial decision-making. This element underscores the importance of weighing evidence and arguments from all parties involved
4. Cultural Relevance: The design of the new idol aligns more closely with Indian identity and values, emphasizing inclusivity and equity. This transformation is vital for a nation that seeks to uphold its democratic ideals while shedding colonial symbols
The unveiling of the new idol is a reflection of ongoing reforms within the Indian legal system aimed at modernizing legal frameworks and replacing outdated colonial laws, such as the proposed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Legal experts have lauded the transformation, asserting that the new representation fosters public trust in the judiciary by promoting values that resonate with modern Indian society. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud articulated this vision, stating that the law must see everyone equally, reinforcing the judiciary’s role in safeguarding democratic principles.
(The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official stance of Channel 6 Network)
Chandigarh: In a significant step fulfilling one of his key election promises, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has announced free dialysis services for chronic kidney patients across all government hospitals in Haryana. This initiative marks the first major move by the new BJP government after Saini took oath as the state’s Chief Minister for the second time on October 17, 2024.
The free dialysis program, a part of the BJP’s electoral manifesto, addresses the critical financial burden faced by kidney patients, who often spend up to Rs.25,000 per month on dialysis treatments. By covering these expenses, the government aims to provide relief to thousands of patients who rely on long-term dialysis for survival. Saini signed this policy into action immediately after assuming office, declaring it as a top priority for his administration.
Additionally, the Chief Minister revealed that the state would promptly implement the Supreme Court’s recent ruling that allows states to create sub-classifications within the Scheduled Castes for reservation purposes. This move is expected to provide more targeted benefits to marginalized groups within the SC category, ensuring equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
Saini’s government is also focused on strengthening law and order. During a press briefing, Saini warned criminals operating in the state, urging them to either reform or face stringent action from the government agencies.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Russia on October 22-23, 2024, to participate in the 16th BRICS Summit, which will be held in Kazan under Russian President Vladimir Putin’s chairmanship. This year’s summit holds particular significance as it marks the first gathering of the expanded BRICS bloc, which now includes Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, and the UAE.
With the theme “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,” the summit will focus on key global challenges, including economic cooperation, security, and reforming global governance structures. It will also feature discussions in the BRICS+ format, engaging leaders from several other nations, including Turkey, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.
During his visit, Modi is expected to hold bilateral talks with BRICS leaders, including Putin, with whom India has deepened ties, especially in trade and energy. The Russian leader noted that the BRICS bloc is expected to drive a significant portion of global economic growth in the coming years, highlighting the importance of cooperation between member nations.
This summit follows Modi’s earlier visit to Moscow in July, and the upcoming bilaterals will provide both India and Russia an opportunity to review progress on past agreements. Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov emphasized the historic scale of the event, calling it the “largest foreign policy event ever held in Russia” with delegations from 32 nations.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar remarked that the summit presents an important platform to assess BRICS’ growing role in global governance and explore future collaboration. Meanwhile, experts anticipate that the expanding BRICS bloc will continue to challenge the dominance of Western economies in the international arena.
Mumbai: In the world of Indian television, chemistry can make or break a show. Enter Zain Imam and Ashnoor Kaur, the dynamic duo starring in Suman Indori, produced by Prateek Sharma and Parth Shah of Studio LSD. This pairing is quickly winning over audiences with their natural rapport, both on and off the screen, making them a must-watch for fans of drama and romance.
What sets them apart? First, their infectious off-screen friendship. Zain’s laid-back charm meshes perfectly with Ashnoor’s lively energy, and their playful social media banter makes fans feel like part of the fun. They bring this camaraderie on screen, balancing intense emotional scenes with light-hearted moments that keep viewers hooked.
On Suman Indori, the two tackle everything from heart-wrenching drama to fun, flirtatious exchanges. Whether in the midst of a heated argument or sharing a tender moment, their performances feel authentic and deeply connected.
Zain and Ashnoor’s active engagement with their fanbase further fuels the buzz. They frequently share behind-the-scenes content, giving fans an insider’s view of the hard work behind every shot. These interactions make their audience feel like they’re more than just spectators—they’re part of the journey.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has cleared the way for the resumption of trials against Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, chief of Dera Sacha Sauda, in three sacrilege cases linked to the desecration of the Guru Granth Sahib in 2015. This development follows the Court’s decision to lift the stay earlier imposed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
These cases, stemming from incidents in Bargari and nearby villages, triggered protests and police violence that became pivotal in Punjab’s 2017 elections. The Supreme Court has also issued a notice to Ram Rahim, seeking his response within four weeks.
Currently serving a 20-year sentence for rape and murder, Ram Rahim is lodged in Sunaria Jail, though he has been granted multiple paroles over time. With this order, the trial will move forward, potentially altering the political and social discourse in Punjab.
Mumbai: Florian Hurel, the celebrated name behind the stunning looks of Bollywood’s biggest stars, has unveiled his latest venture—Florian Hurel Hair Couture and Spa in Bandra. This isn’t just a luxury salon; it’s a sanctuary where beauty, wellness, and relaxation blend seamlessly. The space offers a high-end salon, a tranquil spa, and a chic café, all designed to create an immersive experience of elegance and serenity.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a sophisticated interior that fuses minimalist urban design with tropical touches. Conceived by Florian’s wife, Rii, the space feels like an escape to Bali with earthy textures, soft lighting, and lush greenery, perfect for unwinding.
Whether you’re there for a celebrity-level makeover, a refreshing spa session, or simply to enjoy coffee in a serene setting, Florian’s new venture is crafted to elevate your senses.
Already a magnet for Bollywood elites, this Bandra hotspot promises to redefine indulgence in Mumbai. Florian’s impressive resume, which includes styling icons like Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone, only adds to the allure. With Florian Hurel Hair Couture and Spa, luxury is not just a service—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a glamorous transformation or a moment of peace, this chic destination delivers on all fronts, making it the ultimate escape from the city’s chaos.
A tragic terrorist attack has claimed the life of a non-local individual in the Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. The body, found with bullet wounds in the Waduna area of Zainapora, was recovered on October 18. According to local authorities, the attack is believed to have targeted the individual based on his non-local status, a disturbing trend seen in recent incidents in the region.
Police have confirmed the attack and launched a thorough investigation to identify those responsible. The body has been sent to a hospital for medico-legal formalities to aid in the investigation.
This incident comes amid renewed security concerns following the conclusion of elections earlier this month, which saw Omar Abdullah’s return to office as Chief Minister. Similar acts of violence against non-local laborers and workers have been reported in the region, reflecting challenges in maintaining security post the abrogation of Article 370.
