History

Uttarakhand has become the first state in independent India to enact a comprehensive Uniform Civil Code (UCC), taking a step towards uniformity in personal laws, affecting matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption across all religions. The move has reignited debates regarding the balance between individual rights, religious freedoms, and the constitutional vision of a secular and egalitarian society. While supporters of the step view the UCC as a progressive reform that upholds gender justice and national unity, concerns have been expressed by various critics over its impact on religious diversity and personal autonomy.

He was a true leader with his invincible blend of wisdom, vision, courage, conviction, humility and immense warmth.

The recent Bombay High Court judgment (23rd January 2025) addresses the contentious issue of the use of loudspeakers at places of worship and their legal standing under Article 25 of the Constitution. The case was initiated following complaints by residents about persistent noise pollution caused by loudspeakers from religious institutions (masjids), particularly during early morning and late-night hours. The court examined whether such practices constituted an essential religious function or merely a cultural practice subject to regulation under existing noise pollution laws. The court ruled that loudspeakers are not an essential part of religious practice and directed the Maharashtra government and police to take strict action against violations of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. This ruling aligns with past judicial pronouncements while also raising questions about unequal enforcement of noise regulations across different religious communities.

Graphic billboards depicting the murder of the Mahatma were pulled down on the afternoon of January 30 from three locations in Nagpur city

In the spirit of unity, a profound display of unity & compassion, prayers were offered at Daragh for the wellness of those injured in the Maha Kumbh stampede. Prof. V.K. Tripathi distributed fliers of love and peace at Kumbh Mela. In a heroic act, Farhan Alam saved the life of devotee Ram Shankar with CPR, Sikhs and Muslims selflessly served by providing food to Kumbh devotees, while Mosques opened for help: provided beds and blankets to 25,000, served food; said, 'Devotees Are Our Guests'

Piece-rated incentives, at around Rs 2,000/month, were last revised 10 years ago, says AWFFI in open letter to Health Minister J P Nadda.

From fearless documentaries to activism across South Asia, Tapan Bose’s legacy as a champion of justice and self-determination will endure for generations