The central government plans to table the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in Parliament, amidst opposition resistance. The bill seeks to improve the administration of Waqf properties, introduce technology-driven management, address legal complexities, and ensure transparency and accountability in Waqf management while incorporating key reforms.
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An Indian Army JCO was killed in a gunfight with terrorists attempting to infiltrate across the Line of Control in Jammu's Akhnoor sector, marking a ceasefire violation by Pakistan. This incident occurred shortly after brigade commander-level talks aimed at de-escalating border tensions. Separately, in Kishtwar, security forces eliminated three Pakistani terrorists during a joint operation, recovering a cache of weapons.
Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali, Imam of Lucknow Eidgah and executive member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, issued an advisory to change the time for Juma namaz on March 14, coinciding with Holi. He suggested local mosques shift the prayer to 2pm to avoid conflicts with Holi celebrations and emphasized fostering communal harmony.
BJP leaders met the Election Commission to seek action against AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal for claiming BJP had mixed poison in the Yamuna. They demanded a public retraction and apology, citing potential public unrest. Union ministers, including Nirmala Sitharaman, criticized Kejriwal's statement as dangerous and irresponsible, urging legal action against him.
Suchir Balaji, a former OpenAI employee who criticized ChatGPT's development, died by suicide at 26. He left OpenAI over ethical concerns and was a key witness in a copyright lawsuit against the company, claiming ChatGPT harmed businesses and the internet ecosystem.
Six new Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases were identified in Pune, raising the total to 73. The Union health ministry will send a team to assist local authorities. Two patients were found during a state survey. Hospitals stocked up on treatments, and the National Institute of Virology reported viral and bacterial infections in GBS cases are under investigation.
Jammu police executed extensive operations throughout 2024 to combat drug crimes, registering over 150 cases under the NDPS Act and arresting more than 240 individuals. They seized 83 vehicles and registered 153 FIRs related to heroin recovery. Additionally, 19 habitual offenders were booked under the PIT NDPS Act, reflecting a stringent, zero-tolerance approach.
Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait urged unity among protesting groups as Jagjit Singh Dallewal's fast-unto-death entered its 21st day. Farmers held tractor marches and protests in Haryana, supporting demands for MSP guarantees. Further actions include a tractor march outside Punjab on December 16 and a 'rail roko' protest on December 18.
A joint operation of the SWAT and Surveillance teams led to the killing of wanted criminal Sunny Dayal, involved in a Lucknow bank heist. Dayal, carrying a Rs 25,000 bounty, was killed after an exchange of gunfire in Ghazipur. Police continue to search for other gang members involved in the robbery.
Yograj Singh, former cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, has criticized MS Dhoni for not giving Yuvraj enough opportunities during crucial phases of his career but has also acknowledged Dhoni's fearlessness and contributions to Indian cricket, sparking debates among fans and experts.
BJP has linked AAP to NGOs that supported clemency for Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru, alleging associations with individuals advocating anti-national activities. BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi demanded Kejriwal explain AAP's connections to these organizations and their influence on the youth. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva highlighted the investigation into threatening calls to schools, suggesting a deliberate attempt to incite fear for electoral gains.