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US and Israel’s war with Iran

US Senate Backs

Trump, Blocks Effort to Limit War Powers

Pentagon Names 6 US Soldiers Killed in Kuwait Drone Attack

The soldiers identified were Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan, 54, and Maj. Jeffrey O'Brien, 45. The other four soldiers identified were: Sgt. Declan Coady, 20; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39; Capt.

and

Cody Khork, 35;

Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42.

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US Senate Backs Trump, Blocks Effort to Limit War Powers

The US Senate has voted to block a bipartisan resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to conduct military strikes against Iran without congressional approval. The measure failed 53-47, largely along party lines, with most Republicans opposing it and most Democrats supporting it.

The resolution, led by Democratic Senator Tim Kaine, sought to reassert Congress’ constitutional power to declare war and require explicit authorization for further hostilities against Iran.

Supporters argued that the administration’s escalating military actions risk drawing the United States into another prolonged Middle East conflict.

Opponents, including Republican Senator Jim Risch, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, defended the strikes as lawful and within the president’s authority as commander-in-chief. Risch said the operation would be short-lived and not a “forever war.” Republicans also warned that restricting the president’s

Musk Avoids DOGE USAID Deposition After Court Rulin

WASHINGTON: Elon Musk, the billionaire and former adviser to President Donald Trump, will not have to sit for a deposition about his tenure leading the Department of Government Efficiency and his role in dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development, a U.S. appeals court ruled on Wednesday. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit ruled 2-1 to grant Musk's petition to avoid the deposition.

Prior to its dismantling, USAID coordinated federal efforts to alleviate poverty and disease. Musk, with Trump's backing, fired thousands of its employees and contractors, throwing global humanitarian relief operations into chaos. Former USAID employees and contractors are accusing him of illegally shuttering the agency.

Circuit Judge Roger Gregory dissented, saying Musk and two other officials targeted for depositions were the only people who could provide relevant information, including about decisions to shut down USAID headquarters and the agency's website.

powers during active operations could endanger US troops.

Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer criticised the military campaign, saying most Americans oppose deeper involvement in the Iran conflict. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll showed only about one in four Americans approve of the strikes, while roughly half believe Trump is too willing to use military force.

Debate has intensified as US and Israeli strikes have caused damage

Pentagon Names 6 US Soldiers Killed in Kuwait Drone Attack

The last two names of the six US soldiers killed in a Kuwait attack were released Wednesday by the Pentagon, and they are from California and Iowa.

The soldiers identified Wednesday were Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan, 54, of Sacramento and Maj. Jeffrey O'Brien, 45, of Indianola, Iowa.

The Pentagon said Marzan was at the scene when a drone strike hit the command center in Kuwait and is "believed to be the individual who perished at the scene," according to the statement. A medical examiner will confirm identification, the Pentagon said.

Four soldiers were previously identified by the Pentagon on Tuesday.

They died Sunday when a drone hit a command center in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, just a day after the US and Israel launched its military campaign against Iran. Iran responded by launching missiles and drones against Israel and several Gulf Arab states that host US armed forces.

O'Brien was promoted to major in August 2024, according to a Facebook post, which shows him alongside two young children.

The signal officer and information systems engineer in the Army Reserve was a manager of defensive cyber operations at an Iowa-based cybersecurity company, according to his LinkedIn.

across Iran and the wider Middle East, with American casualties reported. Lawmakers have questioned whether the administration is bypassing Congress in decisions that amount to war.

The House of Representatives is expected to vote on a similar resolution. Even if passed by both chambers, any measure would likely face a presidential veto, requiring a two-thirds majority in Congress to override — a threshold seen as highly unlikely.

Sánchez Rejects Iran War Amid Trump Threat

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez again criticized the U.S. and Israel’s military actions in Iran, standing firm on Wednesday against trade threats from Washington and warning that the war in the Middle East risked “playing Russian roulette” with millions of lives.

“We are not going to be complicit in something that is bad for the world and is also contrary to our values ??and interests, just out of fear of reprisals from someone,” Sánchez said in a televised address. President Donald Trump on Tuesday threatened to end U.S. trade with Spain because of Madrid’s refusal to allow the U.S. to use joint military bases in the country in its attacks on Iran. Sánchez, widely regarded as Europe’s last major progressive leader, has called the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran an “unjustifiable” and “dangerous” military intervention.

HiIndia Newsdesk

US Sinks Iran Warship, 87 Dead

While the US has not confirmed the number of dead, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the submarine strike and touted it as evidence of America's global reach in its war on Iran

At least 87 people were killed after a US submarine torpedoed and sank the Iranian warship IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean, according to AFP and Sri Lankan officials. The frigate had recently participated in the multinational naval exercise MILAN 2026 in India and was returning home when it was attacked. Pete Hegseth confirmed the strike, describing it as proof of America’s global reach in its ongoing war against Iran. “An American submarine sunk an Iranian warship that thought it was safe in international waters,” he said, calling it a “quiet

Canada Plans Mass Middle East Evacuation

(Reuters) - The Canadian government is working to repatriate citizens who are stranded in the Middle East by organizing seats on commercial flights, contracting charter flights and offering ground transportation options to neighboring countries, Canada's foreign affairs minister said on Wednesday. More than 2,000 Canadians have requested assistance from the Canadian government to leave the region since the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran, Foreign Minister Anita Anand said.

US Federal Workforce Down 12% Since Sept 2024

WASHINGTON: The U.S. government's civilian workforce shrank by 12% between September 2024 and January 2026, according to government data published on Wednesday, reflecting President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency's efforts to cut government jobs.

The figures show Trump has fulfilled a pledge to slash the size of federal agencies, which he argued were bloated, although it remains to be seen whether the cuts will make them more efficient.

death.” He added that it marked the first time since World War II that the US had sunk an enemy ship by torpedo. The US Department of Defense released black-and-white footage appearing to show a submarine periscope view followed by a distant explosion — an unusual near real-time disclosure of submarine combat operations.

Sri Lankan authorities said 32 survivors were rescued, while 61 sailors remain missing. Search operations are ongoing off Sri Lanka’s coast, where the ship sank.

Indian Navy had earlier stated that MILAN 2026,

Congress votes to summon Attorney General Bondi in Epstein case

"Three million documents have been released, and we still don't have the full truth," Mace wrote. "Videos are missing. Audio is missing. Logs are missing. There are millions more documents out there."

Acongressional committee has voted to summon US Attorney General Pam Bondi to testify about the investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The motion to subpoena Bondi was introduced by Nancy Mace, a Republican lawmaker, who accused the justice department of a "cover-up".

The Trump administration has faced growing pressure across the political spectrum to release all the documents related to the probe. The congressional committee has already compelled a number of high profile people to testify in the case.

"The Epstein case is one of the greatest cover-ups in American history. His global sex trafficking network is larger than what is being revealed," Mace wrote on social media. Bondi and the Trump administration have faced criticism over their handling of the release of the files, including failing to black out the names of Epstein's victims.

On Wednesday, five Republicans, including Mace, and Representatives Lauren Boebert, Tim Burchett, Michael Cloud and Scott Perry, joined Democrats on the House Oversight committee to vote in favour of the subpoena or legal summons.

Mace, who despite backing the president, has been critical of his Department of Justice's (DOJ) handling of the Epstein files.

one of the largest multilateral naval exercises in the Indo-Pacific, focused on anti-submarine warfare, air defence and maritime cooperation. IRIS Dena had also taken part in earlier editions of the exercise. Defence analysts suggest the US submarine may have been tracking the Iranian vessel throughout its voyage, a common intelligence-gathering practice among navies.

The Pentagon says a key objective of the US-Israeli campaign against Iran, launched days earlier, is to dismantle Iran’s naval capabilities, signalling a widening and intensifying conflict.

Pak Man Claims Iran Forced Trump Plot

A Pakistani man accused of plotting to kill Donald Trump told a US court that he did not willingly cooperate with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the alleged assassination plan, according to media reports. The Justice Department has charged Asif Merchant with attempting to recruit individuals in the United States to target Trump and other American politicians in retaliation for Washington’s 2020 killing of Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani. Testifying during his terrorism and murder-for-hire trial, Merchant said he acted under pressure to protect his family in Tehran and claimed, “I was not wanting to do this so willingly.” However, prosecutors dismissed his defence, telling the court there was no solid evidence to support claims of duress or coercion. They cited a prior letter to the judge arguing that Merchant’s account lacked evidentiary backing. According to reports, Merchant said he was never directly ordered to assassinate a specific individual, though he alleged that his Iranian handler mentioned three potential targets during discussions in Tehran. The trial continues amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran.

HiIndia Newsdesk

India Calls US Port Claim ‘Baseless’

New Delhi:

India has rejected a report that claimed that the US was using its ports to strike Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs's reaction came after former US Army Colonel Douglas Macgregor, during an interview with a US-based channel, One America News Network, suggested that the US was using Indian naval bases in its war against Iran.

"All of our bases have been destroyed. Our harbour installations are destroyed. We are actually having to fall back on India and Indian ports, which is less than ideal; that is what the navy says," he can be heard saying in the interview.

Canada Won’t Rule Out Joining Iran War: Carney Says ‘Stand by Allies’

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Thursday that he couldn't rule out his country's military participation in the escalating war in the Middle East. Carney's visit to Australia this week has been overshadowed by expanding war in the Middle East, sparked by a massive USIsraeli strike on Iran that killed its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran Will Fight Till End: Strategist

"Iran is right now in a scenario has been cornered into scenario where it has nothing to lose. And it will fight until the very last moment, triggering also all the Iranian proxies and networks, not only in the region, but actually beyond that. Think of other regional hotspots, even in Europe. So we are about to see the full implications of what the United States and Israel started five days ago," Tchakarova said.

Israel Hits Tehran, Beirut as War Expands

Recent developments in the Middle East conflict show a significant escalation as **Israel has carried out a series of air strikes on targets in Tehran and Beirut, widening the ongoing war that began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Israeli forces have hit military and security sites in Iran’s capital, including Iranian Revolutionary Guard facilities, as well as positions in Lebanon linked to the Iran-aligned group Hezbollah.

Lebanese health authorities reported that Israeli strikes on towns near Beirut have killed civilians and wounded

others, while homes and buildings have been damaged in the southern suburbs. Iran has responded with missile, drone and rocket attacks across the region, targeting Israel and US allied positions, contributing to a conflict that has drawn in multiple countries and disrupted key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz. Governments have scrambled to evacuate citizens and assess security risks as the war enters its fifth day, with continuing bombardments and retaliation from all sides.

Sri Lanka MP Flags India Concern After US Sinks Iran Ship

A Sri Lankan Member of Parliament has expressed concern that the sinking of an Iranian warship by the United States in the Indian Ocean could have wider regional implications, including for India. The incident, which reportedly occurred off Sri Lanka’s coast, has heightened tensions across the region and raised questions about maritime security in busy shipping lanes.

The MP noted that India, as a major regional power with strong economic and strategic interests in the Indian Ocean, could be indirectly affected by any further escalation. Disruptions to shipping routes, rising insurance costs, and increased naval activity may impact trade and energy supplies for countries dependent on these waters. Sri Lanka, positioned along key international sea routes, is closely monitoring developments while maintaining a neutral stance.

Russia Ready to Reroute Oil to India Amid Mideast Crisis

Russia ready to raise Indian crude import share to 40% from 30% Russia set to sell LNG to India after Qatar output stopped-source

Russia is prepared to divert crude oil supplies to India to offset disruptions caused by the escalating Middle East conflict, an industry source told Reuters. Around 9.5 million barrels of Russian crude are already aboard vessels near Indian waters and could arrive within weeks, offering quick relief to refiners. India is highly vulnerable to supply shocks, with crude reserves covering only about 25 days of demand. Nearly 40% of its oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which has become largely inaccessible following Iranian attacks triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

India, the world’s third-largest oil consumer, processes about 5.6 million barrels per day and is actively seeking alternative supplies in case the conflict drags on. The source said Russia could potentially meet up to 40% of India’s crude requirements. Russian oil imports had fallen to 1.1 million barrels per day in January amid trade pressures from Donald Trump, but rebounded to around 30% of total imports in February. Any further increase will depend on Indian government guidance as trade talks with Washington continue. Analysts warn discounted Russian oil may become costlier as tight supply conditions create a seller’s market.

Gujarati Man Arrested for DUI in Georgia Likely to Be Deported to India

A Gujarati man from Gandhinagar, identified as Sunil Patel, is likely to be deported to India after being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in the US state of Georgia. Patel was taken into custody in November 2025 by police in Chatham County on charges of drunk driving and driving the wrong way. Since his arrest, he has remained in jail, and deportation proceedings are reportedly underway.

Sources say Patel had moved to the United States around 2022 with his wife and two children. He was doing small jobs and had no prior criminal record. However, the seriousness of the DUI

and wrong-way driving charges has led authorities to deny him release. There is speculation that he could be deported directly to India. In recent months, US authorities have reportedly taken stricter action against undocumented immigrants involved in traffic violations, including DUI cases.

Even individuals with pending asylum cases have faced deportation if arrested for serious offenses. Since January 2025, several Gujaratis have allegedly been deported from the US in similar circumstances. In comparable past cases, individuals arrested for DUI were jailed for three to six months before being sent back to India. In some instances, family members later returned to India due to financial hardship and lack of legal status. Under US law, DUI is considered a serious offense. While first-time offenders may not always face long jail terms, undocumented immigrants charged with such crimes are increasingly facing deportation under stricter enforcement policies.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Pakistan May Join Iran-Israel War: Reasons Explained

Would Pakistan make good on an agreement it signed with Saudi Arabia in September 2025 that would consider an attack on either of the two as an attack on both?

Asuicide drone attack in Saudi Arabia has raised the possibility that Pakistan could be drawn into the escalating Iran-Israel conflict.

The trigger is a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in September 2025, which treats an attack on one as an attack on both and provides for a joint, coordinated response.

The key question is whether Pakistan would honour the pact if Saudi Arabia were attacked. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar recently indicated the seriousness of the

Nepal Holds First Poll Since Gen Z Uprising

Polls have opened in Nepal's first general election since deadly youthled anti-corruption protests toppled the government last year. The vote for parliament's 275 seats pits "old guard" parties against challengers advocating for angry, disillusioned young voters hungry for change. Nearly 19 million people, including almost a million first-time voters, are registered to take part in the ballot for the House of Representatives. Corruption, unemployment, economic stagnation and inequality sparked the protests last September in which 77 people were killed. Leading candidates include KP Oli, the prime minister toppled in the protests, and Balen Shah, the ex-rapper mayor taking him on in his constituency. Nepal's mountainous terrain makes it slow and difficult to transport ballots, which are counted by hand - full results are not expected for days. Without the Gen Z protests, this election would not have happened. One of the factors behind the Gen Z protests was the demand for change – not just of government, but also of politics and policymaking.

agreement, saying he had reminded Iran of the defence understanding between Islamabad and Riyadh. His remarks, reported by the Financial Times, marked Pakistan’s first open acknowledgment of its commitment amid ongoing US-Israel strikes on

The most controversial aspect of the SMDA is speculation that it could extend Pakistan’s nuclear umbrella to Saudi Arabia. While there is no official confirmation that nuclear protection is part of the deal, analysts

China Plans ‘Birth-Friendly’ Society, Social Security Reforms

China has announced plans to build a “childbirth-friendly society” over the next five years, aiming to address concerns related to employment, education, healthcare, income and social welfare, according to an official government report released in Beijing on March 5.

The move comes as China’s population declined for a fourth consecutive year in 2025, with the birth rate falling to a record low. The country’s population has been shrinking since 2022 and is ageing rapidly, posing challenges to economic growth, domestic consumption and pension sustainability. Authorities said they would improve population services and respond proactively to demographic ageing.

Measures include promoting highquality and full employment, improving income distribution and refining the social security system

China also plans to develop the “silver economy” — focused on citizens aged 60 and above — by expanding elderly care services, particularly in rural areas. Supportive policies for seniors will cover pension finance, wellness services and long-term care.

By 2035, China’s population aged over 60 is projected to reach 400 million, roughly equivalent to the combined populations of the United States and Italy. This demographic shift means hundreds of millions will exit the workforce while pension systems are already under strain.

believe the agreement may create a precedent for “extended deterrence” outside the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) framework.

Saudi Arabia is believed to have sought stronger security partnerships after regional instability, including Israeli airstrikes in the Gulf in 2025, raised doubts about long-term US security guarantees. By aligning closely with Riyadh, Pakistan — the only nuclear-armed Muslim-majority country — has positioned itself at the centre of volatile Middle East geopolitics.

However, most analysts suggest Pakistan is unlikely to directly join the war. Instead, its role may be limited to diplomatic and strategic backing for Saudi Arabia. For now, Islamabad has issued warnings but stopped short of any military commitment.

The broader concern remains whether the SMDA challenges global nuclear norms, particularly the principles of the NPT and the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, by potentially legitimising nuclearbacked defence arrangements outside established frameworks.

Trump: Starmer ‘No Churchill’ After Iran Rift

WASHINGTON/LONDON: - President

Donald Trump castigated one of the United States' closest allies on Tuesday, comparing Prime Minister Keir Starmer unfavorably to Winston Churchill over Britain's limited support for U.S. strikes on Iran. "This is not Winston Churchill that we're dealing with," Trump said at the White House, referencing Starmer's legendary World War Two predecessor. The Oval Office comments were Trump's third broadside against Starmer this week as Washington's campaign of air strikes against Iran stoked concerns among some U.S. partners who see the war as reckless and a violation of international law.

Trump and his aides have long scolded European allies over their immigration policies, lower-than-pledged military spending and hostility to far-right movements. And Trump's often tepid support for Ukraine and his threats to seize Danish territory have raised fears in Europe about the stability of a transatlantic alliance facing growing threats from Russia.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Iran.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Iran’s Hold Tightens, India’s Energy Security at Stake

HiIndia Newsdesk

The strategic maritime chokepoint of the Strait of Hormuz — a narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea — has become the focal point of escalating tensions in West Asia after Iran’s recent warnings and effective restrictions on shipping through the route. Iran’s stance comes amid heightened conflict with the United States and Israel, with Tehran threatening to “set fire” to any vessel attempting passage, and reports indicating a de facto slowdown or closure of traffic.

The strait is one of the world’s most important energy transit routes, with around 20% of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) moving through its waters daily.

Any disruption — whether formal closure or prolonged intimidation of commercial shipping — risks severe consequences for global energy markets.

India’s Energy Dependence and Vulnerability

India is among the largest energy importers in the world, and a sizeable share of its crude oil, LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), and LNG imports flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

Data from analytics firms show that nearly 50% of India’s total crude oil imports passed through the strait in early 2026 — an increase from 40% late last year as Indian refiners reduced purchases of Russian oil and returned to Gulf supplies.

In addition, about 80–85% of India’s LPG shipments originate from

Gulf countries like Qatar, UAE and Saudi Arabia, almost all of which traverse the chokepoint — making India’s domestic cooking gas supplies particularly vulnerable to disruptions if the strait remains unstable. The country also relies on Hormuz for 55–60% of its LNG imports, crucial for power generation and industry. A prolonged closure or any effective blockade could constrain supplies and push India to find expensive alternatives at short notice.

Economic Ramifications:

Prices, Inflation and Trade

Even without an outright halt in shipments, the threat of conflict has already pushed up global oil prices and freight costs. Brent crude futures have surged, with analysts warning a genuine seaborne supply shock could trigger further spikes. Higher crude costs translate directly into increased

import bills, fuel price inflation, and pressure on India’s current account and fiscal balance.

The rising geopolitical risk has also been reflected in financial markets: India’s equity indexes have softened, the rupee weakened against major currencies, and bond yields climbed on concerns of widening trade deficits and higher inflation. Beyond oil, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz also affect non-oil trade and shipping logistics. A substantial portion of India’s merchandise exports to Gulf and African markets relies on sea routes passing through or connected to Hormuz, exposing $40+ billion in annual non-oil exports to shipping delays, higher insurance and freight costs.

Government and Industry Responses

Indian officials have reiterated that,

despite the risks, there is no imminent shortage of fuel supplies because of existing inventories and diversified contracts. The government and oil companies are actively exploring alternative suppliers and routes, including increasing purchases from other regions or using pipeline systems that bypass Hormuz when feasible. Strategic stockpiles of crude give India a buffer for several weeks, but LPG and LNG reserves are tighter, potentially exposing consumers to short-term supply stress if the disruption persists.

Strategic and Geopolitical Implications

Analysts note that a deliberate closure of the Strait of Hormuz would be a double-edged sword for Iran: while it gives Tehran leverage over global energy markets, it could also significantly hurt its own oil exports — particularly to China, one of its largest buyers.

For India, the crisis underscores a long-standing vulnerability in its energy security posture and highlights the importance of diversification of energy sources, expansion of strategic reserves, and greater investment in renewable energy to reduce reliance on volatile maritime chokepoints. As global powers, including the United States and China, call for protection of maritime passage through Hormuz, New Delhi remains poised between safeguarding its energy interests and advocating for diplomatic efforts to defuse the growing conflict in the Gulf.

American Travelers Urged to Stay Alert in Middle East and Pakistan

HiIndia Newsdesk

WASHINGTON, DC -The United States has ordered the departure of nonemergency government personnel from several countries in the Middle East and Pakistan and has updated travel advisories across the region amid rising tensions following recent hostilities with Iran.

The US State Department has raised travel advisories for Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman to Level 3 — Reconsider Travel. Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Pakistan remain at the same advisory level as security concerns continue to grow.

According to the advisory, “Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran, along with significant disruptions to commercial flights.”

The State Department said it ordered the departure of non-emergency US

government employees and family members from several countries due to heightened security risks.

In the United Arab Emirates, the advisory level was raised from Level 2 to Level 3 because of concerns related to armed conflict and terrorism. Similarly, advisories for Jordan and Oman were elevated to Level 3 due to potential risks from terrorism and the possibility of regional armed conflict as tensions escalate across the Middle East. For Saudi Arabia, the updated advisory warns of risks linked to armed conflict, terrorism, and strict enforcement of local laws, including regulations

governing social media activity.

The advisory also noted that drone and missile attacks linked to Yemen in previous years have targeted cities, airports, and energy infrastructure in the region. Americans were also warned

about the possibility of exit bans and strict enforcement of local regulations. Meanwhile, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar remain at Level 3 — Reconsider Travel, as officials continue to warn of ongoing security risks tied to regional tensions. In Qatar, the US Embassy has suspended routine consular services and has urged American citizens to leave the country if possible.

The warnings also extend to Pakistan, where the State Department ordered non-emergency staff and their families to depart from US consulates in Lahore and Karachi due to security concerns.

Pakistan remains under Level 3 — Reconsider Travel, while Balochistan province, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, and areas near the Line of Control are under Level 4 — Do Not Travel due to terrorism and security threats.

The US travel advisory system ranges from Level 1 — Exercise Normal Precautions to Level 4 — Do Not Travel, which indicates extreme security risks.

India’s Sheshnaag-150 Drone Advances

New Delhi:

As the world watches Iran's Shahed-136 low-cost suicide drones and America's own Shahed-inspired LUCAS drones exact disproportionate damage on the battlefield for a fraction of the cost of conventional weapons, India's own answer to this class of warfare, the Sheshnaag-150, is quietly but steadily making headway in development testing. The long-range swarming attack drone, built from scratch by Bengaluru-based defence startup Newspace Research Technologies (NRT), first flew a year ago. But in the wake of Operation Sindoor, during which NRT was called upon by the Indian military to deploy some of its other drone capabilities at the warfront, the urgency around a mature, homegrown, long-range swarming strike capability has sharpened dramatically. What was once a promising internal development program is now viewed through a far more operationally urgent lens.

US Accused of Blocking Rising Powers

New Delhi: Iran signalled a willingness to talk to end the current conflict with the US and Israel, but only "with dignity" and without being dictated to.

Speaking to ANI, Abdul Majeed Hakeem Ilahi, Special representative of the supreme leader of Iran, said, "We are ready to stop the war. We are ready for negotiations. But the negotiating should be with dignity, not dictating something against Iran. We are defending ourselves. We are looking for our right and nothing else."

He emphasised that Iran wants a guarantee of no future attacks and the removal of sanctions in exchange for peace. "No, in this circumstance, no one is ready for negotiation. Attacking us and we negotiate it? No. But if they stop the war and they have to give us the guarantee that they are not going to attack us again, and also to remove the sanctions against Iran, why are we not ready for negotiation? We are looking for the peace," he said.

US assets struck across the Middle East

A consulate in Dubai, CIA station in Saudi Arabia and US base in Qatar all sustained hits

US President Donald Trump announced that most of Iran’s military installations have been “knocked out” in a series of strikes, with new attacks targeting the Iranian leadership. In parallel, Israel carried out a strike on a compound linked to a group responsible for electing Iran’s next supreme leader, an Israeli official reported.

Following a drone attack at the US consulate in Dubai, all personnel were confirmed safe. In response to escalating tensions, the US has closed embassies in three Middle Eastern countries and issued strong advisories for American citizens to leave the region.

Trump also ordered US “insurance

and guarantees” for commercial ships navigating the Gulf and suggested that the Navy would escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary. The escalation of hostilities has already sent shockwaves through global markets, with US gasoline prices recording their largest one-day increase since 2005, highlighting the war’s potential impact on the world economy.

Human rights organizations report that more than 1,000 people have been killed in Iran since the conflict began, reflecting the severe humanitarian toll of the strikes. Analysts warn that prolonged military actions could further destabilize the region, disrupt oil supplies, and affect global trade.

The US and its allies are closely

the US Embassy in Kuwait and Riyadh on Monday and

monitoring developments, emphasizing that diplomatic channels remain open even as military pressure intensifies. The situation underscores both the geopolitical risks and the economic consequences of the conflict in the Middle East.

Trump Warns of Trade Cut with Spain Over Bases

Former US President Donald Trump has threatened to suspend trade with Spain, citing concerns over American military bases on Spanish soil and what he called insufficient defense spending.

He warned that unless Spain increases its contributions to NATO commitments and better supports US forces stationed there, trade relations could face serious consequences, highlighting his focus on “fair burden-sharing” among allies.

Indian-American Student Killed in Austin Bar Shooting

A 21-year-old Indian-American student was among three people killed in a late-night shooting at a bar in Austin, police confirmed. The victim, Savitha Shan, was a student at the University of Texas at Austin. Another Indianorigin student, Karan Bhakt, was critically injured after being shot in the head.

The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on March 1 at a crowded venue near the campus. Authorities said the bar was packed with young people when gunfire broke out. Shan, whose legal last name was Shanmugasundaram, was pursuing a dual degree in Business

21-Year-Old University of Texas Student Savitha Shan Among Three Dead; Indian Student Karan Bhakt Shot in Head

Administration and Economics at the Texas McCombs School of Business. University officials described her as a bright and talented student who was close to graduation.

Two others — 19-year-old Ryder Herrington and 30-year-old George Pederson — were also killed. Fourteen people were injured, with some initially reported in serious condition. Police identified the suspected shooter as 53-year-old Dyaga Dayan, who also died during the incident. Federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, are investigating the motive behind the attack.

HiIndia Newsdesk

A drone attack near the US consulate in Dubai caused fire late Tuesday (Mar 3) as Iran stepped up its retaliatory attacks targeting American diplomatic missions in the Middle East. This followed attacks on

Netanyahu Thanks PM Modi for Backing Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, surrounded by bodyguards, spoke as he walked among debris in Israel's Beit Shemesh, where Iranian strikes on a synagogue killed nine people

Beit Shemesh: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today told he spoke to his "great friend" Prime Minister Narendra Modi and thanked him for standing with Israel amid tensions in the Middle East. Netanyahu, surrounded by bodyguards, walked among debris in Israel's Beit Shemesh, where Iranian strikes on a synagogue killed nine people.

"I spoke to our great friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I spoke to him at length yesterday and thanked him for his standing with Israel, standing for the truth, and for the enormous friendship of the people of India," Netanyahu told . "They are much admired and loved in Israel. I won't get into the details of the conversation, but I have spoken to him, and I have spoken to many other leaders in the region and beyond," he added. The two leaders are known to share a good personal rapport. India and Israel also have deep ties in trade, defence and people to people connections.

Sonia Gandhi Hits Centre Over Khamenei Stand, Mentions Kashmir

New Delhi: Questioning the government's silence on the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, veteran Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has said silence, in this case, is not "neutral", but an "abdication". In a column for The Indian Express, the former UPA spokesperson has written that Delhi's ties with Tehran are "civilisational as well as strategic" and reminded the Narendra Modi government of the several occasions Iran came to India's aid. The Centre has not issued a statement on Khamenei's death, but has called for restraint and de-escalation in the Middle East region. Sources in the government have said its measured stand mirrors the response of major global powers and that diplomatic responses prioritise national interest.

Trump U-Turn on ‘Boots on Ground’ After Riyadh Attack

New Delhi: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday suggested that “boots on the ground” may not be necessary as tensions escalate in the Middle East, even as Washington and Iran continue to trade attacks. In an interview with NewsNation journalist Kellie Meyer, Trump said retaliation would follow the attack on the US Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and the deaths of six US service members.

Trump said in an interview that there will soon be retaliation for the attack on the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia's Riyadh.

His remarks marked a shift from earlier comments in which he refused to rule out deploying troops after weekend strikes on Iran. Speaking previously to the New York Post, Trump had said presidents often promise “no boots on the ground,” but he would decide based on necessity. He added that the US has more firepower ready and warned that “the big wave hasn’t even happened.”

Trump said US operations could extend beyond the initially projected four-to-five-week timeframe. He outlined objectives including

Limited Flights Begin From Dubai, Plane From Abu Dhabi Lands In Delhi

Air travel across the United Arab Emirates is beginning to take off after days of disruption triggered by escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi preparing to restart limited flight operations. A plane from Abu Dhabi landed in New Delhi on Monday night, carrying passengers who were stuck due to the Middle East tensions.

Ethiad plane EY216 landed in Abu Dhabi at 3:42 pm and landed in New Delhi at 8:31 PM, according to the flight tracking website Flightradar24.

Authorities and airlines announced that select services would resume from Monday evening, offering relief to thousands of passengers stranded after widespread airspace closures across the Gulf. Dubai government's media office confirmed that Flydubai would begin operating a limited schedule.

“Flydubai will operate a limited number of flights on the evening of 02 March 2026. Customers are advised to update their contact details via Manage Your Booking and check Flight status at http://flydubai.com before travelling to the airport,” the office wrote on X.

destroying Iran’s missile systems, navy and nuclear program, and curbing its regional influence, though he did not mention regime change.

The US and Israel have continued strikes on Iran, while Tehran has launched missiles and drones across the region and threatened shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route. Airspace closures across much of the Middle East have disrupted flights. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington joined the conflict after learning Israel was set to strike Iran, citing concerns of imminent retaliation.

Iran Threatens Ships in Strait of Hormuz

This is Iran's most explicit warning since telling ships it was closing the export route on Saturday, a move that threatens to choke a fifth of global oil flows and send crude prices sharply higher.

‘Serious Safety Risks’: US Urges Americans to Leave 13 Middle East Nations

Citing “serious safety risks,” the United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio early Tuesday urged American citizens to depart immediately from Middle Eastern nations, including Iran, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Gaza, West Bank, United Arab Emirates, via commercial means.

Taking to X, the Assistant Secretary at the US State Department, Mora Namdar, wrote: “The @SecRubio @StateDept urges Americans to DEPART NOW from the countries below using available commercial transportation, due to serious safety risks. Americans who need State Department assistance arranging to

depart via commercial means, CALL US 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada). ENROLL in http://step.state. gov to get the latest security updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.”

The announcement comes as the Middle East faces a period of heightened regional volatility with the UAE Ministry of

The dangerous escalation follows a direct military confrontation involving Iran, Israel, and the US, with Tehran launching widespread aerial attacks in response to ongoing regional hostilities.

Defence confirming the interception of a “third wave” of Iranian missile strikes targeting civilian and military infrastructure. This dangerous escalation follows a direct military confrontation involving Iran, Israel, and the US, with Tehran launching widespread aerial attacks in response to ongoing regional hostilities.

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Cairo: An Iranian Revolutionary Guards senior official said on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz is closed and Iran will fire on any ship trying to pass, Iranian media reported.

India’s Silence on Khamenei’s Death

PM Modi today said that the situation in West Asia (Middle East) was a matter of grave concern.

New Delhi:

The death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israel strikes has triggered political debate in India, with the opposition demanding a formal response. The government of Narendra Modi has maintained silence, instead urging restraint, dialogue and de-escalation. At a joint briefing with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Modi said West Asia’s situation is of “grave concern” and reiterated India’s commitment to peace and diplomacy. Notably, no G7 democracy issued condolences.

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticised Khamenei. India’s response aligns with many global powers prioritising stability. Government sources also cited Khamenei’s past remarks on Kashmir, CAA and domestic issues as interference. Officials argue India’s calibrated stance protects strategic Gulf ties and reflects national interest rather than endorsement of any side.

India’s Silence on China’s Iran Stance: Expert Decode

China has condemned the recent US-Israel strikes on Iran but avoided strong retaliation, reflecting its delicate balancing act. Beijing relies heavily on Iranian oil, importing over 80% of Tehran’s exports — about 1.38 million barrels per day — though Russia and Saudi Arabia remain its top suppliers. As tensions escalate following “Operation Epic Fury” launched by Donald Trump and Israel’s parallel strikes, Iran’s retaliation across the Gulf has raised fears of wider disruption. Experts say Iran risks undermining its strategic value to China, especially under their 25-year cooperation pact linked to the Belt and Road Initiative. The biggest concern for Beijing is instability in the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 44% of China’s Middle East oil imports pass. A major disruption could spike global crude prices and hurt China’s fragile economy. For now, Beijing is hedging its bets — urging de-escalation while quietly diversifying oil supplies to protect its longterm energy security.

US Says 3 F-15s Downed by Kuwaiti Air Defenses in Friendly Fire

New Delhi: Three F-15E ‘Strike Eagle’ fighter jets were shot down in separate “friendly fire” incidents by Kuwaiti air defences, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said

Monday. All six crew members — two per aircraft — ejected safely and were recovered in stable condition. Kuwait acknowledged the incident and assisted in rescue efforts. Earlier, Kuwait had reported that several

India, Canada Reset Ties With Landmark Nuclear Energy Deal

India and Canada have announced a host of agreements, including a 10-year nuclear energy deal, after their prime ministers met in Delhi to reset ties that plummeted due to diplomatic tensions. Narendra Modi and Mark Carney also struck agreement in areas such

as technology, critical minerals, space, defence and education.

Carney said they agreed to conclude a free trade deal, years in the making, by the end of 2026. Both countries want to reduce exposure to punitive US trade tariffs.

Under Carney, the two governments are trying to repair ties that were strained when his predecessor accused Delhi of a link to the 2023 assassination of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. India vociferously rejected the allegation by Justin Trudeau. Trade and diplomatic relations almost came to a standstill as both sides expelled each other's diplomats and cancelled visa services. Canada hosts a huge expatriate Indian community.

On Monday morning explosions were heard across major cities in the Gulf region as Tehran continued to retaliate on a scale that has surprised military observers.

US military aircraft had crashed. Social media visuals showed one jet spiralling down in flames before the pilots ejected.

The incidents come amid escalating US-Israel missile strikes on Iran targeting regime and military sites. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Tel Aviv and US bases across West Asia. Explosions were reported in Jerusalem and Gulf cities as air raid sirens sounded.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed on the first day of the conflict. Iranian drones struck Saudi Aramco’s Ras Tanura refinery, forcing a temporary shutdown. Airports, including Dubai’s, faced disruptions. Civilian casualties and infrastructure damage have intensified fears of a wider regional war.

Khamenei's Wife, Injured In US-Israel Strikes, Has Died: Iranian Media

Khojasteh Bagherzadeh - the wife of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader - has died after being wounded in US-Israeli attacks, the Iranian media claimed on Monday.

She lived largely outside the public eye. The two married in 1964. Although little is known about her, the couple had six children.

FBI Declares Gujarat’s Kalpesh Patel Wanted In Massive US Fraud Case

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has declared 35-year-old Indian national Kalpesh alias Kenny Patel wanted for his alleged role in a large-scale parcel fraud racket operating across the United States. A federal arrest warrant was issued against him in June 2023, but he has remained absconding since then. Authorities believe he may have been moving between Illinois and Pennsylvania, though his exact whereabouts remain unknown. Investigators say Patel played a key role in a sophisticated scam active between 2017 and 2021 that allegedly defrauded American citizens of millions of dollars. The operation involved India-based

call centres that primarily targeted senior citizens, threatening them with arrest in fabricated drug trafficking or money-laundering cases. Victims were pressured into withdrawing money or purchasing gold, which was then packed into parcels and collected by individuals posing as federal agents. Recent raids on jewellery stores led to the seizure of nearly $100 million worth of gold and significant amounts of cash linked to the network. Patel has been charged with mail and wire fraud conspiracy. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison, along with heavy financial penalties and restitution to victims.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Donkey Route Survivor Vows Never to Return to US Dream

Ahmedabad: A young man from Anand district who attempted to reach the United States through the illegal “donkey route” has returned home after allegedly being kidnapped and tortured in Azerbaijan. He now says he will never again try to enter the US illegally. Dhruv Patel left India in January 2026, hoping to reach America via a route that involved travel through Azerbaijan and Turkey before eventually crossing into Canada and then the US. According to his interview with The Indian Express, he was assured by agents that he would safely reach North America.

However, after landing in Baku, his phone and documents were allegedly confiscated. He and two other Indian passengers were reportedly held captive for eight days, stripped, beaten, and given electric shocks. The kidnappers allegedly demanded ransom in cryptocurrency and threatened organ trafficking if payment was not made.

Frightened by torture videos sent to them, Dhruv’s parents transferred Rs 15 lakh via USDT. Despite the payment, he was not immediately released. The family later approached Minister Kamlesh Patel, who informed MP Mitesh Patel. During the Parliament session, the matter was escalated to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Following intervention by the Indian Embassy in Baku and local police, the three Indians were rescued on February 9.

Columbia Student Freed After MamdaniTrump Meeting

Federal immigration authorities arrested a Columbia University student early Thursday, triggering protests on campus and allegations that agents gained entry to the university-owned residence by posing as police officers searching for a missing child. Just hours after detaining student Ellie Aghayeva, though, the federal government abruptly reversed course, permitting her to walk free after an apparent intervention by President Donald Trump.

Pakistan Launches Strikes on Kabul, Kandahar After Afghanistan Attack

Islamabad/Kabul:

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have sharply escalated after cross-border strikes and retaliatory attacks, with Islamabad declaring “open war” against the Afghan Taliban government.

Pakistan launched airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia under Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, hours after Afghan forces attacked Pakistani border posts.

After the violence escalated, both militaries said they killed dozens of soldiers in the other side, which followed multiple Pakistani strikes on Afghanistan and clashes along the frontier in recent months

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Islamabad’s “patience has reached its limit.”

Afghanistan claimed it captured Pakistani posts and killed 55 soldiers,

Florida Store Employee Arrested for $300,000 Lottery Ticket Theft

Ahmedabad / Florida: An Indian-origin convenience store employee in Florida has been arrested for allegedly stealing lottery scratch-off tickets worth $300,000 from his workplace.

The accused, 34-year-old Rakesh Tanguturi, worked at a store in the Little Haiti area near Miami. He was arrested on February 23 and charged with fraud involving more than $50,000 and first-degree grand theft. According to investigators from the Florida Lottery, the store owner noticed missing scratch-off ticket books and irregular lottery-related transactions linked to

the shop’s bank account. Suspicion fell on Tanguturi, who initially denied wrongdoing but later allegedly confessed via message, fearing police involvement. Authorities say he manipulated scratchoff tickets totaling $300,000. After adjusting for prize payouts, the net loss was calculated at $60,546. Investigators found that stolen tickets were cashed in bulk at a single retailer, raising red flags and triggering a probe.

Tanguturi reportedly began repaying the owner in installments and claimed he stole the tickets to fund medical treatment for his ailing father in India, who has since passed away. He has been lodged at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center with a $30,000 bond. However, as he was allegedly living in the US without legal status, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued a detainer.

while admitting eight of its own troops were killed. Pakistan rejected the figures, saying two of its soldiers died and dozens of Afghan fighters were killed. Explosions were reported in Kabul, and civilians were wounded near the Torkham border crossing. Both sides accused each other of targeting civilians and violating sovereignty.

The clashes have further strained a fragile Qatar-mediated ceasefire, raising fears of a wider conflict along the volatile Af-Pak border.

Modi Flags NCERT Judiciary Chapter

New Delhi:

Accountability should be fixed, was the message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, government sources have told, amid an escalating row over the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) Class 8 textbook chapter on "corruption" in the judiciary.

"Kaun dekh raha hai ye sab (Who is looking after all this)," a government source told quoting the Prime Minister, who is in Israel.

The investigation into an alleged multimillion-dollar gold laundering scam in the United States has widened beyond Texas, with fresh coordinated raids carried out in multiple states.

On Wednesday, officials from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and local law enforcement agencies conducted searches at three locations across Texas, Georgia, and Florida as part of the ongoing probe. The action follows a major January 29 raid on Tilak Jewellers in Irving. Authorities allege that multiple jewelry stores were involved in processing and selling stolen gold obtained through scams targeting senior citizens nationwide.

Federal agencies conduct multi-state crackdown after earlier Texas action against Tilak Jewellers

According to media reports, the latest raids took place at stores in Richardson (North Texas), Decatur, and Orlando. Two of the locations are believed to be

branches of Malani Jewellers.

A report by CBS said about 20 SWAT officers entered the Richardson store on February 25, detaining 13 employees and seizing a substantial quantity of gold. Police suspect the store handled stolen gold that was melted, converted into jewelry, and resold at market rates or shipped overseas. Some reports claim that up to $50 million worth of gold was seized in the latest raids, though officials have not confirmed the figure. Investigators estimate more than $70 million in stolen gold may be linked to the broader network.

The case is being probed by the Collin County Sheriff's Office and federal agencies. More than 20 arrests have been made so far, and further action is not ruled out.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Dhruv Patel tortured in Azerbaijan; family paid ransom before diplomatic intervention secured release

Shanaya Kapoor

Dismisses Age, Height Criticism

Actor Shanaya Kapoor has addressed ongoing conversations around age and height differences with her male costars, making it clear that she does not view such factors as obstacles in her professional journey. Speaking to Hindustan Times, Shanaya said that she is far more motivated by the creative demands of a role than by outside commentary or public perception. She emphasized that for her, acting is about growth and exploration rather than responding to criticism. “It’s not about proving anyone wrong… as an actor, it is all about taking that risk; that’s what excites me,” she said, underlining that her focus remains on the craft rather than on social media narratives or comparisons.

Expanding on how she selects her projects, Shanaya explained that she is drawn to roles that challenge her abilities and push her beyond familiar territory. “When I hear something new, something different, and I wonder, ‘Oh my god, am I going to be able to pull this off or not?’ that’s when I feel excited,” she shared. According to her, the uncertainty attached to a character or storyline is what sparks her interest. She believes that stepping into the unknown is essential for artistic growth and that comfort rarely leads to memorable performances. “If there’s even a little spark in something that feels unfamiliar, that excites me,” she added, suggesting that unpredictability and creative risk are what keep her engaged and motivated as a performer.

Shanaya, the daughter of actor Sanjay Kapoor, made her acting debut with Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan opposite Vikrant Massey. The project marked her entry into the industry and placed her in the spotlight, where scrutiny and comparisons are common for newcomers. She later appeared in Tu Yaa Main alongside Adarsh Gourav, a survival drama that demanded intense

Sunny Leone Says Daughter Nisha, 10, Earns with ‘Boo Box’

Actor Sunny Leone recently shared a proud parenting moment, revealing that her 10-year-old adopted daughter Nisha Kaur Weber has already begun earning through her own invention.

Filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan recently visited Sunny’s Mumbai home along with her longtime cook Dilip, where she caught up with Sunny, her husband Daniel Weber, and their children — Nisha, Asher and Noah. During the interaction, Sunny opened up about her daughter’s creativity and independence at a young age.

Speaking proudly about Nisha, Sunny told Farah, “She knows she is adopted. She is very good.” Farah responded warmly, “She is a very lucky girl.”

preparation and physically challenging sequences. The film required her to perform scenes that tested her fear of heights, pushing her both mentally and physically. She has described such experiences as transformative, reinforcing her belief that growth happens when one embraces discomfort rather than avoids it.

Amid online chatter dissecting on-screen pairings, physical differences, and age gaps between actors, Shanaya maintained that storytelling should remain the central focus. She acknowledged that being new in the industry naturally brings heightened scrutiny, but said she chooses not to be distracted by it. “I can’t control opinions. I can only focus on my work,” she stated, reflecting a pragmatic approach to fame and criticism. With multiple projects reportedly in the pipeline, Shanaya’s comments signal a clear and confident stance: she is willing to take creative risks and explore unconventional roles, regardless of age differences, height debates, or the surrounding industry noise.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ The Bluff tops Amazon Prime Video’s U.S. charts

Global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas is once again rewriting the rules, this time as a fierce, swashbuckling force in The Bluff. The high-octane action drama has officially claimed the No.1 spot on Amazon Prime in the U.S., steadily rising through the ranks before anchoring itself firmly at the top. The film’s chart-topping moment quickly ignited conversations across social media. One enthusiastic viewer took to X to share

his excitement, writing, “I just saw today that the number one movie in the US right now is Priyanka Chopra as a pirate. Completely unplanned but… a rising tide lifts all boats, no?”

The tweet perfectly captures the sentiment surrounding The Bluff, an organic, audience-driven rise powered by word of mouth and genuine enthusiasm. It also reflects how Priyanka’s performance is resonating far beyond borders, with viewers in the U.S. embracing her as a formidable action lead.

Shobhaa De Questions Hype Around

Author and columnist Shobhaa De has weighed in on the conversation surrounding Dhurandhar, questioning what she described as excessive hype around Akshaye Khanna’s performance in the film.

Speaking on a podcast, De said, “What was created around the impression that Akshaye is the bigger star and that he alone stood out… that, to me, was another manipulative aspect.” She was referring to the wave of praise that followed Khanna’s performance, particularly the attention around a viral dance sequence that many viewers called a standout moment. Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar has performed strongly at the box office and generated significant online chatter. While acknowledging the film’s popularity, De appeared critical of how narratives around individual performances were being shaped.

Akansha Ranjan Kapoor Says Being

Apolitical Is a Privilege

Akansha Ranjan Kapoor shared a powerful and thought-proviking note on social media, expressing her distress over the current state of the world. She wrote about feeling unsure how to process everything unfolding, adding that being apolitical is often a position of privilege because politics determines who gets safety, freedom, and dignity.

Sharing her empathy, Akansha wrote on her Instagram story, “I don't know how to feel about the world right now. I think being apolitical is a position of privilege, because politics shapes who gets safety, freedom, and dignity. This is history repeating itself. The world doesn't want unilateral wars. It doesn't want bombs falling on cities that once felt untouchable.”

The note added, “I feel deep empathy for the Iranian people, who have long hoped for change. And I feel grief for civilians caught in the crossfire of men who seem to believe they are saviors. The hardest part is watching how fragile ‘safe’ really is. This isn't black and white. But it's heartbreaking. It's frightening. I don't have answers. Just a hope that human life becomes more important than the pride of 3 men....”

She ended her note by saying she doesn’t have the answers, only a hope that human life becomes more important than the pride of a few men. On the work front, Akansha Ranjan Kapoor will next be seen in the Netflix film Ikka.

“I don't know how to feel about the world right now. I think being apolitical is a position of privilege, because politics shapes who gets safety, freedom, and dignity. This is history repeating itself. The world doesn't want unilateral wars. It doesn't want bombs falling on cities that once felt untouchable.”

EXCLUSIVE: RGV Slams AI ‘Denial’ in Film Industry

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has weighed in on the growing debate around artificial intelligence in cinema, calling the technology a positive development and urging the film industry to stop resisting change. In a recent conversation following the launch of Seedance 2.0, Varma spoke at length about how rapidly AI tools are evolving and how they could reshape filmmaking.

Addressing concerns that scripts are increasingly being filtered or even generated by AI systems, Varma said he views the shift optimistically. “I think it is positive,” he said, adding that the larger goal of technology has always been to outsource work to machines so that humans can free up time and energy.

He argued that AI could function as a superior advisor in creative processes. According to him, actors can sometimes be influenced by personal relationships with writers or directors, or may lack the analytical ability to fully assess material. In such cases, he suggested, turning to a more advanced system for guidance is logical.

Rashmika, Vijay Spark Buzz in Manyavar Mohey Campaign

Actors Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda have come together as brand ambassadors for Manyavar Mohey’s latest campaign titled ‘Made For Each Other’. The campaign, positioned as a wedding musical, taps into the ongoing #Virosh buzz and presents the duo in a playful, stylised setting that blends romance with light-hearted banter. Conceptualised as a high-energy ad film rather than a conventional commercial, the campaign opens with a coordinated twinning plan that quickly turns into a lyrical faceoff. Rashmika kicks off the playful exchange with,

Jab Khuli Kitaab Trailer Out; Film Streams March 6

Hindi ZEE5 unveiled the trailer of its upcoming film Jab Khuli Kitaab today, offering audiences a heartfelt, humorous, and refreshingly honest glimpse into one of the most poignant portrayals of mature love on screen. Written and directed by Saurabh Shukla and led by the stellar pairing of Pankaj Kapur and Dimple Kapadia, the film delves into the emotional complexities of a five-decade-long marriage disrupted by a truth long buried in silence.

Siddhant Chaturvedi Joins Abhishek Chaubey for Ballia Tale

Actor Siddhant Chaturvedi is set to work on a deeply personal project rooted in his hometown of Ballia, marking a significant full-circle moment in his journey from smalltown India to mainstream Hindi cinema. Known for consistently choosing layered and unconventional roles, the actor is now turning to a story that draws directly from his own lived experiences.

Sumukhi Suresh Only Indian at Netflix Is a Joke Fest 2026

Indian comedian, writer and actor Sumukhi Suresh has been announced as part of the lineup for Netflix Is a Joke Fest 2026, where she will perform as the only Indian comedian featured in this year’s edition of the global showcase. Set to take place across Los Angeles from May 4–10, the festival returns for its third outing as one of the world’s largest comedy gatherings. Produced by Netflix in partnership with Live Nation, the citywide event will host more than 350 live performances spanning stand-up shows, variety acts, podcast tapings, screenings and exclusive events across multiple venues. Sumukhi will perform in Los Angeles on May 5, marking a significant milestone in her international trajectory. Reflecting on the announcement, the comedian shared her excitement about reaching a stage she once only imagined being part of, “If you would have asked teenager Sumukhi from Nagpur who was shy and underconfident that she would be performing at one of the most prestigious international comedy festivals.

China–Iran ShipKiller Missile Deal

Nears Completion

Apart from the CM-302, the Islamic Republic is also in talks to acquire Chinese surface-to-air missile systems, so-called MANPADS, anti-ballistic weapons, and antisatellite weapons, Reuters said.

Iran is reportedly close to finalising a deal with China to acquire advanced anti-ship cruise missiles, as the United States intensifies military pressure on Tehran. Talks, ongoing for two years, accelerated after last June’s 12-day Israel-Iran war, according to Reuters.

The proposed agreement includes the Chinese-made CM-302 supersonic missile, which has a range of about 290 km and is designed to evade ship defences by flying low and fast. Experts say the system could significantly enhance Iran’s ability to threaten US naval assets, including aircraft carriers. China markets the missile as capable of striking large warships and land targets. Iran is also reportedly discussing purchases of surface-to-air missiles, MANPADS, antiballistic and anti-satellite systems. Analysts say the sale would deepen China-Iran military ties and complicate US strategy in the region. However, some experts argue that even the prospect of such transfers may serve more as strategic signalling than an immediate battlefield shift.

India, EU to Grant 5-Year ‘Most Favoured Nation’ Status

New Delhi:

India and the European Union have agreed to grant each other "Most Favoured Nation" (MFN) status for five years from the date the free trade agreement (FTA) between the two sides comes into force, according to the draft text of the pact released on Friday (February 27). Talks between New Delhi and Brussels began in 2007 but were suspended in 2013 over differences on market access and regulatory standards. However, the trade negotiations resumed in June 2022. The trade deal was announced after high-level discussions in New Delhi between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa.

Trump Backs Pakistan Amid ‘Open War’ With Taliban

Trump's statement came at a time Islamabad declared a state of war with Afghanistan, claiming to haveaerially targeted 29 locations across the neighbouring country.

US President Donald Trump declined to intervene in the escalating Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict, instead praising Pakistan’s leadership in remarks seen as diplomatic backing for Islamabad.

Speaking to reporters, Trump commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, saying he respects both leaders and believes Pakistan is “doing terrifically well.”

His comments came after Pakistan declared a state of war with Afghanistan amid rising cross-border clashes. Islamabad said it conducted airstrikes on 29 locations inside Afghanistan, claiming 297 Taliban fighters were killed. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid countered that Afghan forces killed 55 Pakistani soldiers and captured others. The escalation marks Pakistan’s most significant action since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

The US State Department said Washington supports Pakistan’s “right to defend itself.” Britain called for de-escalation, while China urged a ceasefire and Iran offered mediation. The US also issued a security advisory for its citizens in Pakistan.

Kejriwal Challenges PM Modi to Call Immediate Delhi Polls

Kejriwal alleged that the agencies like ED and CBI were weaponised against him

Hours after a trial court discharged him and 22 others in the alleged liquor “scam”, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold immediate elections in Delhi, and said he would leave politics if the BJP won even 10 of the 70 Assembly seats.

“I challenge you Modiji, if you have the courage, show us by holding elections in Delhi today. If you win more than 10 seats, I will leave politics. The people of Delhi are fed up with you,” the former Chief Minister said at a press conference at the AAP headquarters.

Kejriwal thanked the special court for showing the “courage to deliver justice” in his case. Flanked by his colleagues Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh, Durgesh Pathak, and Saurabh Bhardwaj, he said: “The BJP has used the words ‘sharaab ghotala’ (liquor scam) a lot over the last four years… But our judicial system has passed a historic judgment today. I thank Judge Sahib for showing courage in an environment in which all institutions and authorities are being intimidated.”

He added that the verdict had exposed what he called a “politically motivated conspiracy” and reaffirmed his party’s commitment to transparency and governance in Delhi.

$100M Gold Seized in Malani Raids After Tilak Crackdown

US law enforcement officials have seized nearly $100 million worth of gold and large amounts of cash in an expanding investigation into a multistate gold scam, following fresh raids on Malani Jewelers after earlier action against Tilak Jewelers in Texas. According to the Collin County Sheriff's Office, raids were conducted on February 25 at multiple locations, including Malani Jewelers showrooms in Decatur and Richardson. The action follows an earlier January 29 raid at Tilak Jewelers in Irving.

Authorities also raided the Orlando Gold Refinery in Orlando, where stolen gold was allegedly melted down. Two individuals were arrested at that location.

Mini-Truck Worth of Evidence

Seized

Police stated that a mini-truck full of gold and cash was confiscated from the Richardson showroom of Malani Jewelers. Three individuals were arrested from that location, pushing the total number of arrests in the investigation to 20.

Among those previously arrested are Nirav Soni of Tilak Jewelers and employee Tithi Patel. Both remain in

Texas Authorities Expand Massive Gold Scam Probe; 20 Arrested So Far

custody on bonds totaling $4 million. Investigators also revealed that Patel was allegedly residing illegally in the United States.

Investigation Began in Early 2025

Officials said the probe began in early 2025 as authorities tracked the distribution of stolen gold. Initial evidence surfaced during raids at Tilak Jewelers and Saima Jewelers. Digital forensic analysis later expanded the investigation beyond Texas.

Despite the $100 million seizure, authorities believe the total scale of the scam could be significantly higher.

Fake Call Centers Targeted Senior Citizens

Investigators say the scheme involved fake call centers operating from India that targeted senior citizens in the United States. Victims were allegedly coerced into handing over gold, which was then melted, turned into jewelry, and sold at market rates domestically and internationally.

Sources indicate that a Texas-based US citizen allegedly linked to the scam is currently in Vadodara and has not returned to the US amid mounting legal pressure.

Wider Network Under Scrutiny Authorities say tracing stolen gold proved difficult once it was melted and resold. Several jewelers and buyers allegedly purchased the gold at discounted prices, earning substantial profits. Investigators are now examining potential links in other US cities, including Chicago, New York City, and New Jersey, where additional jewelers may have been involved. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, and more arrests are possible. What began with low-level couriers earning $200–$500 per trip has now expanded to include alleged masterminds accused of profiting millions from the illicit gold trade.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Active at 60+: Age Is Not an Excuse

“Morning walks are becoming a powerful wellness movement among India’s 60+ population. Staying active after 60 is not a luxury — it is a necessity for healthy aging. Regular walking, cycling, or light exercise helps control diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol while improving strength and balance. Health experts, including the World Health Organization, stress that physical activity reduces the risk of major lifestyle diseases. Seniors across cities are proving that consistency matters more than age. With discipline and proper guidance, vitality can continue well beyond 60.

Safe Starter Plan for Beginners

Week 1–2:

• 10–15 min walk daily

• Gentle stretching Week 3–4:

• 20–30 min brisk walk

• Light strength exercises twice a week After 1 Month:

• 30–45 min walking or cycling

• Balance exercises

• 1 rest day per week

At 60, many people begin to slow down — not because the body demands it, but because society expects it. The idea that aging automatically means weakness is increasingly being challenged by seniors who are cycling, walking, swimming, practicing yoga, and even running marathons.

Medical experts across India say the real turning point after 60 is not age — it is attitude and discipline.

Lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol are common in this age group. According to the World Health Organization, regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Yet many seniors hesitate to begin, believing it is “too late.”

Doctors disagree.

“Muscles respond to movement at any age,” says health experts who emphasize that even moderate activity — such as 30 minutes of brisk walking — can significantly improve blood sugar levels and cardiovascular health. Regular exercise also strengthens joints, improves balance, and reduces the risk of falls, a major concern among older adults.

Across Indian cities like Ahmedabad and Pune, early-morning parks are filled with senior citizens walking in groups, laughing clubs practicing

Age is just a number: Seniors embrace cycling to stay fit and independent

Warning Signs — Stop and Consult a Doctor If You Feel

• Chest pain

• Severe breathlessness

• Dizziness

• Joint swelling

• Irregular heartbeat

breathing exercises, and cycling enthusiasts clocking 20 to 30 kilometres before breakfast. What connects them is not competition — but consistency.

Fitness experts warn against sudden, extreme workouts. “Start slow, stay regular,” they advise.

Why Fitness After 60 Matters

• Improves blood sugar control

• Reduces blood pressure and cholesterol

• Strengthens bones and muscles

• Lowers risk of falls

• Boosts mental health

• Enhances sleep quality

For someone previously inactive, a 10-minute walk after meals can be a powerful beginning. Gradually, this can be increased to 30–45 minutes daily. Light strength training using body weight or resistance bands can prevent muscle loss, which naturally accelerates after 50.

Equally important is food discipline. Nutritionists recommend balanced meals with controlled portions of carbohydrates, adequate protein, fresh vegetables, and proper hydration. Exercise without mindful eating often produces limited results. Mental health is another key benefit. Physical activity releases endorphins — chemicals that improve mood and reduce stress. Many seniors report better sleep and increased confidence once they adopt a daily movement routine.

Importantly, doctors advise consulting a physician before starting any new exercise program, especially for those with heart conditions, joint issues, or chronic illnesses. However, in most cases, movement is medicine.

Retirement, experts say, should not mean retreat. Instead, it can be a powerful phase of reinvention — a time when individuals finally prioritize their health after decades of professional and family responsibilities.

The message is clear: aging is inevitable, but decline is not. The human body is designed to move. At 60 and beyond, staying active is not about proving anything to others — it is about preserving independence, dignity, and quality of life.

Age may add years, but discipline adds life to those years.

Rayan Patel - The Whiz Kid from Schaumburg is the Top Junior Golfer in the World

Zofeen Maqsood

Rayan Patel is all of 11-years-old but his list of achievements far exceeds the number of years he has been on earth. An avid golfer, Rayan has been winning laurels on the links since a very young age. This past year has been phenomenal for Rayan and 2026 has opened with newer heights for this young star on the greens. Just last week Rayan won his first Winter National Championship Title at the Junior Tour powered by Under Armour. Rayan showed a successful streak at all the three rounds, leaving little room for other players to claim a win. A score of -10 to win the national championship speaks a lot about Rayans natural talent for his game. About his win, Rayan said, “It was an amazing tournament weekend that ended with my first Winter National Championship Title. It was a great experience and it’s one of my favorite tournaments of the year!”

Rayan has been off to a great start this year as he also played at the IGen National Golf Championship tournament in Myrtle Beach NC where he performed exceedingly well. Today Rayan is arguably ranked the top golfer in the world for Junior Golf.

Early Start

It’s not uncommon for child prodigies to start exhibiting excellence early on but looks like this little champ was off to an even earlier start as he got his first real set of golf clubs when he was just 20.

Rayan Patel is the first ever junior kid to win two major national Golf tournaments back to back. In January, this year he won the I-Gen National Golf Tournament at Myrtle Beach SC.

weekly. Summers are busy for Rayan as he works with 2-3 different golf coaches as he hones different parts of his game.

months old – a time when most kids are still developing their fine motor skills. As per his dad, Parthiv Patel who has been a major driving force in Rayan life, “Rayan did not put down his golf clubs since that young-age. He really showed interest in the game very early,” he says. Rayan’s parents spotted his talent early on and began his coaching at 4-years-ofage, when kids are just getting ready for preschool. Ever since the age of 4, Rayan has been dedicatedly seeing his coach

Discipline & dedication

For Rayan this success at a young age also is a testament of his discipline and hard work. Despite a packed day at school, Rayan practices for almost two hours daily. On weekends, his game routine is even more strenuous with him spending 3-4 hours on golf shots. His mornings begin early at 6:30 am even during winters as he gets ready for his physical workout at least 3-4 days a week.

Rayan’s game has taken him far and wide and he has traveled almost all the states in the United States. He

has also displayed his excellent game internationally and has played in India as well as in Dubai against some of the best kid golfers in the world.

Focus on the Top

Ask any game coach and they will tell you that it is often the mindset that determines a winner. For Rayan winning and securing the top spot has always been the primary goal, no matter which game he's playing. He maintains that it is this razor-sharp focus on gaining the number one slot that motivates him to work hard, practice better and continue to develop and evolve his game skills to attain a formidable command on the golf course.

The Super Streak

The last few National Junior Golf Tournaments that Rayan played in have sealed his place solid on the top charts. He is one of the best Junior golfers in the world currently. Back in 2024, he played India Championship at ITC Classic Golf and Country Club in Gurgaon, where he

In February, he won the Under Armour The Junior Tour in Palm Beach FL, where he secured the number 1 position by shooting -10 in 54 holes and winning by a margin of 9 shots.

finished at number 1, shooting -1 on the last day to win the championship. This was his first international championship that he won at the top spot. In 2025, Rayan won in the US Kids regional in Pinehurst, North Carolina at Red White and Blue by US Kids Golf. About his win, Rayan said, “Finally I was able to win a US Kids regional in Pinehurst North Carolina. I shot -6 (66) to win the tournament. I had 8 birdies and 2 bogies. It was great playing some of the best junior golfers in the world.” Last weekend, Rayan played at the US Kids Desert shootout in Phoenix AZ. this week in a national tournament. He played in the top 50 kids in the world in his age group and finished at the runners up position.

The Roots

Rayan’s family is based in the Chicago suburbs. But they originally hail from the Sabarkantha district in Gujarat. Despite living thousands of miles away from their birthplace and raising two young kids in Chicago, Rayan’s parents have maintained their cultural ethos and values.

Against the odds

According to many golf pundits, there remains a stigma in the Junior golf world that kids from the colder part of America are at a disadvantage and cannot win a national tournament as the unforgiving Midwest cold forces them to be stuck with simulator golf practice up to five months in a year. But Rayan’s dad Parthiv Patel informs, “The first kid ever to win a national tournament was my younger son Rohin Patel at just 9 years of age in 2025. As for Rayan he proved the stigma wrong as he went on to win 3 nationals in the last one year.” A proud dad, Patel says, “No kid ever from the Midwest has ever won this feat beside my two boys.”

GirishGPO Redefines Digital Experience with Website Relaunch

CHICAGO, IL -GirishGPO Services Inc., a company positioning itself as a “Wholesaler of Businesses” in the USA, has unveiled its newly redesigned website, GirishGPO.com. The platform serves as a dynamic hub for entrepreneurs, business owners, and individuals seeking opportunities to start new ventures, invest in both passive and active businesses, and access specially negotiated value-driven products and services from carefully vetted vendors.

These exclusive benefits and promotions are available to GirishGPO.com subscribers. The company is currently offering a limited-time promotion featuring free subscriptions for individuals and deeply discounted subscription rates for business owners and entrepreneurs.

GirishGPO.com highlights unique and

lesser-known business and investment opportunities that often fall outside the typical awareness of most opportunity seekers. Despite being underexplored,

these opportunities are designed to be straightforward, scalable, and capable of delivering attractive returns.

In addition, the platform connects

Families Speak Out on Living Conditions in Texas Detention Facility

LAREDO, TX— A young Ecuadorian mother and her 7-year-old daughter were released after spending a month detained at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas — 1,300 miles from their Minnesota home. Inside the facility, the child repeatedly asked her mother what crime she had committed to deserve being imprisoned. The woman’s husband was deported shortly after their arrest. Their story reflects a broader surge in family detentions since the facility reopened under the Trump administration. More than 3,800 children were booked into ICE detention during the first nine months, with many held beyond the longstanding 20-day legal limit. The number of families detained at Dilley has sharply increased, reaching over 1,300 earlier this year. Advocates and attorneys report children experiencing emotional distress,

prolonged confinement, limited schooling, and medical concerns. Some cases include serious health complications and self-harm incidents among teens. Officials and facility operators deny allegations of neglect, stating families receive proper care, medical services, and safe housing. While some families are released

pending immigration cases, many are deported. Parents describe lasting trauma, fear of re-detention, and uncertainty about rebuilding their lives after release. The debate over family detention continues, raising questions about oversight, children’s welfare, and the long-term impact on immigrant families.

subscribers with a growing network of vetted vendors providing high-quality products and services at special value pricing or discounted rates exclusively for members.

The platform continues to evolve, with new businesses, products, and services being added over time. GirishGPO. com also features a dedicated vendor application section, inviting companies—preferably with a strong national footprint and a reputation for excellence—to apply to become listed vendors.

GirishGPO is built for consumers and business-minded entrepreneurs pursuing passive income, active ventures, or a combination of both.

The company stands firmly behind the ambition, drive, and determination of individuals striving for success and is committed to supporting those aspirations at every level.

Tension Rises in Illinois Over Possible ICE Return

CHICAGO, IL — Even with a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown, Illinois and Chicago leaders are pushing for stronger accountability and transparency in immigration enforcement.

While Democrats seek tighter restrictions on ICE — including requiring identification and judicial warrants — ICE and Customs and Border Protection remain largely unaffected due to $75 billion in previously approved funding.

Gov. JB Pritzker has positioned Illinois at the forefront of resistance to aggressive federal immigration actions, calling for empathy and criticizing recent enforcement operations. Following a major crackdown in Minneapolis that left two people dead and over 4,000 arrested, Illinois lawmakers are proposing a bill to block former ICE officers from being hired by state law enforcement agencies.

Indian Couple with Confirmed FIFA World Cup Tickets Denied US Visas

Zofeen Maqsood

An Indian businessman and his wife were refused US visas despite holding confirmed tickets for the FIFA World Cup, according to a Reddit post that quickly went viral.

The 26-year-old applicant, who identified himself as the managing director of his company with an annual income of Rs 25 lakh, said he had applied for a B1/B2 visitor visa under a FIFA-related category. He noted that the consular interview lasted only a few minutes and ended in a rejection. In his account, the businessman said the consular officer spoke briefly with him and did not ask his wife any questions during the appointment. Their applications were denied even

though their travel plans were finalized and match tickets had already been secured.

Describing the interview, he said the officer first asked about the purpose of their trip to the United States. “Our purpose is to watch the FIFA World Cup since we have been allocated a FIFA Pass by the US authorities and in addition

to that we might visit New York,” he responded.

The officer then asked about his annual income and prior international travel. He told the officer that he earns Rs 25 lakh per year and that his only previous trip abroad was to Oman. According to the post, the officer issued a refusal under Section 214(b),

The officer issued a refusal under Section 214(b), a common provision used when an applicant fails to demonstrate sufficient ties to their home country or convince the officer they will return after a temporary visit.

a common provision used when an applicant fails to demonstrate sufficient ties to their home country or convince the officer they will return after a temporary visit. The decision ended the couple’s plans to attend the tournament. People on the Internet weighed in that the refusal was likely due to limited travel history rather than the stated purpose of attending the FIFA World Cup itself.

Photo credit: CBP / AIC

HiIndia Newsdesk

A unique platform creating the amalgamation of business ownership and entrepreneurship as a ‘Wholesaler of Businesses’

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Justice Department Launches New Mechanism to Prevent Marriage Fraud

WASHINGTON, DC -Marriage fraud remains one of the most overlooked challenges within the United States’ legal immigration system. For decades, immigration authorities have struggled to balance family reunification policies with safeguards against abuse.

A recent decision by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) in Matter of Jin, issued on February 13, introduces an important new mechanism that may significantly strengthen efforts to combat fraudulent marriages — particularly those involving U.S. citizens deceived into sponsoring immigration benefits.

Each year, nearly one million immigrants receive lawful permanent resident (green card) status, with family-based immigration accounting for about 61 percent of approvals. Immediate-relative visas — granted to spouses, minor children, and parents of U.S. citizens — are especially attractive

because they are not subject to annual limits. In fiscal year 2022 alone, more than 238,000 green cards were issued to spouses of U.S. citizens. Many applicants adjust status within the United States rather than applying abroad. This process requires a citizen or permanent resident to file Form I-130, followed by the beneficiary’s Form I-485 adjustment application. While designed for convenience, the pathway has also created opportunities for fraud, as marriage to a U.S. citizen offers a fast track to permanent residency and eventual citizenship.

Government oversight mechanisms exist, including investigations by USCIS’s Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate, interviews, conditional residency requirements, and rescission procedures. Despite these safeguards, marriage fraud persists in both consensual arrangements and “one-sided”

schemes in which unsuspecting citizens are emotionally manipulated into marriage by individuals seeking immigration benefits.

The Matter of Jin decision addresses this latter scenario. After USCIS approved her visa petition, a U.S. citizen discovered evidence suggesting her spouse had committed marriage fraud and appealed her own approved petition. The BIA determined it had authority to review such appeals and remanded the case to USCIS for further consideration. If fraud is ultimately proven, immigration law imposes a permanent bar on future visa petitions for the beneficiary. This ruling empowers deceived citizen spouses to correct mistakes and seek accountability, creating a potentially powerful deterrent against exploitation of America’s family-based immigration syste.

U.S. citizen spouses duped by sham claims of love can clean up their mistakes and seek justice

FBI Strengthens Digital Security with Operation Winter SHIELD

SAN ANTONIO, TX -The FBI San Antonio Field Office, in collaboration with the FBI Cyber Division and field offices across the country, has launched Operation Winter SHIELD (Securing Homeland Infrastructure by Enhancing Layered Defense). The nationwide initiative is designed to raise awareness about the rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape impacting both individuals and organizations.

The campaign highlights ten proven defensive measures that can be implemented to strengthen network security and improve overall cyber readiness.

These recommendations were developed by the FBI based on lessons learned from real-world cyber investigations. By adopting these practical steps, individuals and organizations can play an important role in protecting

the nation in cyberspace. The FBI encourages the public to safeguard sensitive data, critical systems, and critical infrastructure against increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks.

“In today’s connected world, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge

Alex Doran of the FBI San Antonio Field Office. “Through Operation Winter SHIELD, we encourage everyone — individuals, small businesses, and large organizations — to do their part in stopping cyber threats before they harm our communities or disrupt our nation’s critical infrastructure.”

Ten Steps to Strengthen Cyber Defense

The FBI recommends the following actions to improve protection against cyber threats:

• Implement a risk-based vulnerability management program.

• Protect security logs and retain them for an appropriate period.

• Adopt phishing-resistant authentication methods.

• Manage third-party cybersecurity risks.

• Track and retire end-of-life technology according to a defined schedule.

• Maintain offline, immutable backups and regularly test restoration processes.

• Strengthen email authentication and malicious content protections.

• Identify, inventory, and secure internetfacing systems and services.

• Reduce unnecessary administrator privileges.

Ami Bera Family Acknowledged by Rep. Correa on House Floor

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman

J. Luis Correa (D-CA) on February 24 paid tribute on the House floor to the family of fellow California Democratic Congressman Ami Bera, recognizing what he described as their “multigenerational commitment to service, education, and community,” and their lasting contributions in both the United States and India.

Correa praised the Bera family’s longstanding dedication to public service and education, highlighting values passed down through generations. He traced the family’s journey to the 1950s, when Kanta and Babulal Bera emigrated from Gujarat to the United States in pursuit of opportunity through education. Despite significant challenges, they worked multiple jobs

while earning graduate degrees and raising their three sons — Raja, Rimal, and Ami Bera.

The congressman noted that the family’s commitment to education and healthcare has created a lasting impact. Rimal Bera currently serves as a clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) Department of Psychiatry, reflecting the family’s strong ties to academic medicine and public health.

Correa emphasized that the Beras’ philanthropic and professional efforts have extended beyond Orange County, California, reaching underserved communities in India. Among their notable initiatives is the establishment of an all-girls school that has graduated more than 7,000 students, expanding access to education and empowering young women.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Queens of Community: CIW Hosts Grand Galentines–Valentines Luncheon

CHICAGO, IL -The Club of Indian Women (CIW) recently hosted a spectacular Galentines–Valentines Queens Luncheon at Ashyana Banquets on February 12, creating an unforgettable evening dedicated to friendship, celebration, and community spirit. The event beautifully showcased the strength of togetherness, bringing women from diverse backgrounds under one roof to celebrate love, empowerment, and meaningful connections. The luncheon was meticulously planned and flawlessly executed by the CIW Board Members. Usha Gupta efficiently managed registrations, supported by Usha Wasan and Urmil Chawla, while Pimi Malhotra focused on welcoming and onboarding new members.

Digital communications and outreach were seamlessly coordinated by Manju Vashisht.

Guests were warmly welcomed as Sarita and Vandana greeted attendees with traditional garlands, setting a festive and heartfelt tone for the evening. Adding to the excitement, Madhu Uppal and Alka Sood delighted guests by distributing beautifully

curated guddi bags filled with surprise gifts, instantly widening smiles across the venue.

One of the major highlights of the event was the popular appetizer station featuring India’s beloved street food favorite — Pani Puri — which attracted a lively queue of enthusiastic attendees. Dietitian Pankaj Tanna expertly supervised the food arrangements alongside Sangita Ginde, ensuring guests enjoyed a delightful culinary experience throughout the evening.

CIW President Vinita Gulabani, along with Founders Prem Sharma and Suman Maula Ji, warmly welcomed the guests and expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support and participation from the community.

Entertainment began on a soulful note with an outstanding musical performance by Dr. Radhika Chinmata, a distinguished classical singer. Her mesmerizing rendition of popular Hindi melodies captivated the audience and soon had guests on their feet, transforming the dance floor into an electrifying celebration.

Indian-American Business Owner Accused in Multi-State $5.4M Securities Fraud Case

Rupal K. Patel

NEW JERSEY - New Jersey regulators have accused Indian-American entrepreneur Rupal K. Patel of orchestrating an alleged $5.4 million nationwide investment fraud scheme through her former dance education business, Arya International Inc., and its successor entity, Mystical Stars LLC.

On February 25, New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced the issuance of an emergency Cease and Desist Order, directing Patel and her company to immediately stop offering or selling investment products within the state.

According to the New Jersey Bureau of Securities, Patel allegedly sold unregistered securities in the form of promissory notes, promising investors unusually high rates of return and claiming personal guarantees on the investments. Regulators state that neither the securities nor the individuals offering them were properly registered as required under state law.

Investigators allege that Patel marketed these investment opportunities to at least 74 investors across multiple states, many of whom were reportedly connected through personal relationships, including friends and family members of students associated with her dance academy.

Authorities claim investors were not informed about significant financial challenges affecting the business, including operational shutdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic and mounting financial difficulties. Regulators further allege that several investors were not repaid when their promissory notes reached maturity. The Bureau of Securities also stated that Arya International Inc. allegedly failed to comply with multiple regulatory obligations, including registering as a securities seller, filing certain required tax returns, and maintaining proper corporate standing after reportedly losing its legal status in 2021. Patel now faces potential enforcement actions under New Jersey’s Uniform Securities Law, which could include financial penalties, investor restitution, and additional legal proceedings as the investigation continues.

The evening also featured engaging games and exciting prize segments, skillfully hosted by Sarita and Vandana.

Board members honored the winners, adding joy and enthusiasm to the festive atmosphere.

As the celebration continued, guests enjoyed a lively photo booth experience, capturing cherished memories and moments of laughter with friends.

A special highlight of the event was the honoring of Lady Stephanie Kifowit, who touched many hearts by sharing her inspiring life story. She was presented with a ceremonial shawl in recognition of her remarkable contributions and leadership. Vandana Jhingan and Gurleen Kaur were also honored for their continued dedication and unwavering support to the community.

“We were thrilled to host such a wonderful gathering celebrating love, friendship, and sisterhood,” said the organizers. “The incredible energy and enthusiasm of everyone present truly made the evening unforgettable.”

Desperate Emergency Calls Reveal

Sick

Kids at ICE Detention Center

DILLEY, TXEmergency calls from the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas sound calm and routine — but the situations are urgent.

“I’m calling for a little kid going through respiratory distress.”

Since mid-September, EMS crews have responded at least 11 times for children struggling to breathe, suffering seizures, high fevers, allergic reactions and fractures. Some were rushed to nearby hospitals. At least three were transferred more than an hour away to specialized pediatric hospitals. In one case, a 22-month-old in severe respiratory distress nearly required helicopter transport. The 911 records raise concerns about conditions inside the detention facility, where hundreds of immigrant children are held with their parents. Pediatricians argue detention itself harms children’s physical and mental health.

“There is absolutely no appropriate way to detain a child,” said Dr. Lara Jones, who signed a letter urging the government to release all children from Dilley.

Families have reported contaminated food, long waits for medicine in cold weather and delays in care.

Info & photos by Jayanti Oza

HiIndia Newsdesk

NRS and El Especialito Launch Exciting “Where’s Paco?” Campaign with $1,000 Grand Prize

NEWARK, NJ – National Retail Solutions (NRS) is proud to announce its collaboration with El Especialito, the nation’s largest Spanish-language weekly newspaper, to launch the “Where’s Paco?” (“¿Dónde Está Paco?”) community print contest. This interactive initiative celebrates local journalism, encourages family engagement, and rewards El Especialito readers’ unwavering loyalty with a $1,000 grand prize.

“Neighborhood bodegas and local media are the heartbeat of the Hispanic community,” said Elie Y. Katz, President and CEO of NRS.

“Supporting El Especialito’s ‘Where’s Paco?’ contest allows us to give back directly to the readers who support these essential local businesses every day.” The interactive contest encourages readers to actively explore the physical newspaper each week. To participate, readers simply need to follow these steps: Find Paco: Locate the hidden

“Neighborhood bodegas and local media are the heartbeat of the Hispanic community,” said Elie Y. Katz, President and CEO of NRS. “Supporting El Especialito’s ‘Where’s Paco?’ contest allows us to give back directly to the readers who support these essential local businesses every day.”

illustration of Paco the Puma inside the printed weekly edition of El Especialito. Snap a Photo: Take a clear photograph of the full newspaper page where Paco is hidden.

ICAC Rescues Kids, Arrests 13 in Online Exploitation Crackdown

CHICAGO, IL - The Lake County Sheriff’s Office announced that its Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force rescued at least five children and arrested 13 individuals in 2025 as part of ongoing efforts to combat online child exploitation.

According to officials, the sheriff’s office received more than 90 cyber tips over the past year. These reports involved serious offenses including possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, online enticement, sex trafficking, child molestation, sextortion, and deceptive tactics used to lure minors.

Investigators say these cases are highly complex and emotionally demanding. Detectives often must review thousands — and in some instances tens of

thousands — of images and videos tied to a single investigation.

To assist in locating hidden electronic devices, the sheriff’s office deploys a specially trained electronic detection K9, Enzo, who is trained to identify concealed digital storage devices such as USB drives, hard drives, and micro SD cards.

From the tips received in 2025, the ICAC Task Force made 13 arrests and successfully rescued at least five children from ongoing abuse and exploitation situations.

Lake County Sheriff John Idleburg acknowledged the emotional toll of the work but emphasized its importance.

“Behind every image and every case file is a real child enduring unimaginable abuse,” Idleburg said in a statement.

“In 2025 alone, our team helped rescue multiple children from continued exploitation. That is exactly why we do this work — to protect the innocent and stop predators before they can harm another child.”

Officials added that several investigations remain under review and additional arrests are possible as those cases move forward.

Submit the Entry: Upload the photo through the official contest webpage. Win the Grand Prize: Participants who successfully locate Paco in at least four separate weekly editions and

submit qualifying entries will be entered into a random drawing to win the $1,000 reward.

The contest will run in El Especialito’s weekly editions from February 20 through April 10, with the final submission deadline set for April 15 at 12:00 AM EST.

This initiative reflects the ongoing collaboration between NRS and El Especialito, two organizations committed to serving diverse communities. By sponsoring the $1,000 prize, NRS continues to expand the reach of a program that connects families, uplifts small businesses, and strengthens local neighborhoods.

“El Especialito has always believed our role goes beyond publishing entertainment and news,” said Anthony Ibarria, General Manager of El Especialito. “‘Where’s Paco?’ gives readers a hands-on reason to interact with the paper each week. With NRS’s continued partnership, we are able to create something fun, engaging, and meaningful for our community.”

261 DACA Recipients Arrested by ICE

CHICAGO, IL -During the first 10 months of President Donald Trump’s second administration, federal immigration authorities arrested 261 recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, according to official U.S. government statistics shared with Congress and obtained by CBS News. DACA protects certain undocumented immigrants who arrived in the United States as children by granting temporary work authorization and protection from deportation, provided they meet strict eligibility and background-check requirements. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), 241 of the 261 DACA beneficiaries arrested between Jan. 1 and Nov. 19, 2025 — about 92% — had criminal histories beyond civil immigration violations. DHS generally counts both pending charges and convictions as part of criminal history but did not provide details regarding the seriousness of those offenses. During the same period,

The figures represent the most detailed official accounting so far of how many “Dreamers” have been affected by the administration’s nationwide immigration enforcement campaign.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deported 86 DACA recipients. The timeframe includes the final days of former President Joe Biden’s administration, though it remains unclear how many arrests occurred before Trump returned to office.

The figures represent the most detailed official accounting so far of how many “Dreamers” have been affected by the administration’s nationwide immigration enforcement campaign. Democratic Senators Dick Durbin, Alex Padilla and Mark Kelly criticized the arrests, calling them “deeply troubling” and warning they could disrupt families and communities. The lawmakers also questioned DHS’s characterization of criminal histories, noting DACA recipients undergo rigorous background checks during renewals.

Despite the increase in arrests compared with advocacy group estimates, the number remains small relative to the roughly 516,000 active DACA recipients nationwide as of June 2025. While the Trump administration has rolled back several Obama- and Biden-era immigration policies, it has not yet moved to terminate DACA, which continues to face ongoing legal challenges in federal courts.

Photo credit: ICE.gov

HiIndia Newsdesk

NRS Selected as Official POS Technology Partner as Krauszer’s Expands Across the U.S.

NEWARK, NJ –National Retail Solutions (NRS) has been selected as the official point-of-sale (POS) provider for Krauszer’s Food Stores, the legendary convenience store chain serving communities across the Northeastern United States. The rollout will standardize operations across Krauszer’s 300+ existing locations while establishing the technological foundation for the brand’s aggressive nationwide expansion.

Founded in the early 1900s, Krauszer’s is the oldest convenience store chain in New Jersey and a longstanding staple of the local economy. As the brand prepares to scale beyond its regional footprint, it has partnered with NRS to modernize checkout systems and ensure operational consistency across franchise locations.

The collaboration leverages NRS’s comprehensive retail ecosystem, including integrated loyalty and rewards programs, advanced inventory tracking, multi-store

The collaboration leverages NRS’s comprehensive retail ecosystem, including integrated loyalty and rewards programs, advanced inventory tracking, multi-store management capabilities, and e-commerce websites with online ordering.

management capabilities, and e-commerce websites with online ordering. These tools support operations ranging from single neighborhood stores to enterprise

Devon Avenue Business Leaders Unites in Support of Bushra Amiwala

CHICAGO, IL -

Several small businesses on Chicago’s Devon Avenue have condemned political attacks against them by supporters of an opponent of congressional candidate Bushra Amiwala.

Restaurant owners on Devon Avenue regularly welcome many candidates and elected officials to their businesses.

“As people of faith and culture who are taught to open our doors and tables to all guests, we welcomed them in that spirit,” the business owners wrote in an open letter. “We welcome everyone who walks through our doors, even when we do not know them personally.”

Following Laura Fine’s recent visit to Devon Avenue, supporters of Kat Abughazaleh’s campaign began calling for a boycott of several businesses. In doing so, they publicly targeted some of the district’s most long-standing and beloved small establishments.

“We will not allow our establishments, our faith, or our community to be used as pawns in political disputes,” the businesses wrote. “A visit, handshake, or quick photo does not constitute an endorsement.”

Bushra Amiwala, an elected member of the Skokie District 73.5 School Board, also condemned the attacks.

“All of these small businesses have supported my campaign since day one,” said Amiwala. “More importantly, they are longstanding pillars of our community. It is reprehensible for any campaign to allow them to be used as political tokens.”

Amiwala reaffirmed her support for local small businesses on Devon Avenue and throughout the district.

retail chains with more than 1,000 locations. Deploying NRS terminals across the network ensures every franchisee—whether operating a legacy New Jersey store or opening

a new location in an emerging market—benefits from the same high-performance technology platform.

“Krauszer’s is more than a convenience store; it is a legendary brand that has served generations of customers,” said Elie Y. Katz, President and CEO of NRS. “We are honored to be selected as their preferred point-of-sale provider and to support this next chapter of growth. Equipping more than 300 stores with our platform provides the operational consistency and real-time data visibility needed to scale efficiently as they expand into new markets nationwide.”

“As we take the Krauszer’s banner nationwide, we need a technology partner that understands the fast pace of the convenience store industry,” said Daniel Shah of Krauszer’s Food Stores. “NRS offers the robust architecture required to manage hundreds of stores while remaining intuitive enough for franchisees to use every day. Maintaining consistency will be essential as we grow into new states.”

New Villivalam Proposal Allows Townships to Provide Additional Food Support

SPRINGFIELD, IL - “In November, many across our community worried about where their next meal would come from after SNAP funds were frozen,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “This had a severe impact on our local food banks and pantries, which worked overtime to fill the gap and ensure our neighbors were fed.”

Following the passage of H.R.1 — the federal budget bill — SNAP eligibility requirements changed, and funding was frozen for weeks, affecting millions of Illinois residents. Without access to affordable, quality food, many families were left vulnerable, while already strained local food banks and pantries struggled to meet growing demand.

Senate Bill 3565 would allow townships to use funds collected for public aid to establish

and administer food banks and pantries for individuals in need — regardless of their eligibility for general assistance.

“Ensuring townships can invest their resources in ways that directly and positively impact residents — and continue safeguarding our communities against federal cuts and uncertainty — is imperative,” Villivalam said. “Senate Bill 3565 strengthens our townships’ ability to support their neighbors during unpredictable times.”

The measure would ensure townships can continue providing aid despite federal eligibility restrictions on similar programs, and that they may continue allocating funding to sustain these services.

“Senator Villivalam’s SB 3565 is grounded in the conviction that food is a basic human right and that strong communities take responsibility for one another,” said Bonnie Kahn Ognisanti, Niles Township Supervisor. “By granting townships greater flexibility in how we use our local resources, this bill allows us to respond directly to the serious challenges facing residents — particularly rising hunger and food insecurity intensified by recent changes to SNAP. As demand grows, food pantries are under increasing strain and must have access to additional funding to meet the moment. When local government is empowered to act with compassion and urgency, we strengthen the stability, dignity, and future of our entire community.”

Senate Bill 3565 has passed the Senate Local Government Committee and now heads to the full Senate for further consideration.

HiIndia Newsdesk

State Senator Ram Villivalam

Mistaken Kidnapping Ends in Tragedy: Sikh Man Found Dead in California

TRACY, CA – Authorities have confirmed that the body of Avtar Singh, a 57-year-old father of triplets who was kidnapped last week, was discovered over the weekend near Lake Berryessa in Napa County.

The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office officially identified the body on February 23, bringing a tragic end to a multi-day search that began more than 100 miles away in Tracy.

Singh, a longtime volunteer at his local Sikh temple, was located near the same white SUV believed to have been used in his abduction.

In a statement, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office expressed profound sadness over the discovery, adding that detectives are working tirelessly to identify and apprehend those responsible for what officials described as a horrific crime. Sheriff Patrick Withrow further clarified that investigators have determined Singh was an innocent bystander and not the intended target of the

Surveillance footage from that day reportedly captured three individuals dressed in dark clothing forcing Singh into a white SUV at approximately 2:30 p.m. Concern was raised later that evening when Singh’s wife returned home and discovered their three six-month-old infants alone without supervision.

kidnapping.

During a meeting with members of the temple congregation, San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas emphasized that Singh bore no

Indian-American Pediatrician Arrest: Shocking 911 Calls

MIAMI, FL – A family vacation in El Portal has turned into a shocking criminal case after prosecutors released 911 audio involving an Oklahoma pediatrician accused of killing her fouryear-old daughter.

Dr. Neha Gupta, 37, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the June 2025 death of her daughter, Aria Talathi. What was initially reported as a tragic drowning is now alleged to have been a staged scene intended to conceal the child’s true cause of death.

In the emergency call, Gupta is heard sounding distressed as she tells dispatchers she found her daughter at the bottom of a rental home’s swimming pool after waking to a noise. She repeatedly stated that she did not know how to swim and was alone with the child. Despite instructions from the

operator to attempt a rescue, Gupta claimed she was unable to reach the girl and reported that the child was not moving.

However, investigators say forensic evidence contradicted her account.

According to the arrest affidavit, the autopsy found the child’s lungs and stomach were dry, ruling out drowning. Authorities also documented injuries inside the mouth and bruising on the cheeks, findings consistent with smothering prior to the child being placed in the pool.

The case is further complicated by an ongoing custody dispute between Gupta and the child’s father, Dr. Saurabh Talathi, who told authorities he did not know his daughter had left Oklahoma. Gupta has since been terminated from her position at the University of Oklahoma. She is being held without bond in Florida as she awaits trial.

responsibility for the violence that took his life. He urged anyone with information to come forward, noting that the abduction occurred on temple property where witnesses may have

seen or heard something critical to the investigation.

The tragedy began on the afternoon of February 17 at Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash Sahib in Tracy, where Singh had served as a dedicated volunteer for more than two decades.

Authorities have stated that the kidnapping was not a random act. Investigators believe the suspects were pursuing another individual for a specific reason; however, the exact motive behind the killing remains under active investigation. A GoFundMe campaign has since been established to support Singh’s widow and their three young children during this devastating time: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ support-for-avtar-singhs-family

Copper Wire Thefts Leave Los Angeles Streets in Darkness

LOS ANGELES, CA -A growing wave of copper wire thefts is leaving large parts of Los Angeles without functioning streetlights, creating safety risks and increasing concern among residents and city officials, according to police.

During a nighttime ride-along with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), FOX 11 observed officers inspecting damaged light poles and stripped electrical wiring across several neighborhoods. In one instance, officers discovered a light pole gutted of copper wiring being illegally used as a power source, with extension cords connected to a nearby encampment.

Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton said the thefts significantly impact public safety. “It makes it very hard to say this is a safe environment,” he noted, adding that stolen copper is often recovered from

abandoned buildings or areas near homeless encampments.

Police say thieves can remove wiring from a single pole within minutes, but repairs often take months — or even years — depending on funding and available resources. Hamilton explained that the LAPD previously operated a specialized metal theft investigation unit, but it was disbanded about two years ago due to staffing shortages and budget cuts.

Residents near the 6th Street Bridge and other affected areas say poorly lit streets increase fear and may encourage criminal activity. City officials are considering solar-powered lighting systems to reduce theft incentives, though police warn crimes may persist if penalties remain low compared to the resale value of stolen metal.

Repairing a single damaged streetlight costs about $2,000, while restoring lighting on major structures can cost millions.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Neha Gupta, 37 held without bond Dr. Neha Gupta, 37, with her daughter Aria Talathi

Seattle University Announces Prestigious Mehta Wahi Scholarship Initiative

SEATTLE, WA – Seattle University School of Law has announced the creation of a new endowed scholarship designed to expand access to global legal education and promote cross-border legal dialogue. The Mehta Wahi Scholarship, established through a generous gift from Pallavi Mehta Wahi and Ash Wahi, will support an incoming LLM student with a demonstrated interest in South Asia–related legal, social, or policy issues.

The scholarship is specifically intended for internationally trained lawyers pursuing advanced legal studies in the United States. Dean Anthony E. Varona said the initiative reflects the law school’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, diversity, and meaningful global engagement within the legal profession.

The scholarship will be administered in partnership with the Roundglass India Center, which works across Seattle

University to strengthen teaching, research, and community engagement related to India and the Indian diaspora. Founded in 2023 by Professor Sital Kalantry with support from the Roundglass Foundation, the center promotes faculty scholarship, student exchanges, and dialogue on issues impacting India and Indian American communities.

Professor Kalantry, the founding director of the center, emphasized that scholarships play an important role not only in supporting students financially but also in enriching academic discourse.

“By supporting an LLM student focused on South Asia–related legal and policy issues, Pallavi and Ash are advancing meaningful cross-border dialogue and strengthening ties between legal communities,” she said. Seattle University’s LLM program provides internationally trained lawyers with a strong foundation in U.S. law while fostering broader global legal understanding and collaboration.

Major Immigration Fraud Bust in New York: USCIS Role Key in Investigation

NEW YORK, NY

–U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) played a key role in supporting a federal investigation that resulted in a fivecount indictment and the arrests of four individuals accused of participating in a large-scale immigration fraud scheme. The defendants face charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and two counts of falsely impersonating officers or employees of the United States, including immigration officials. The indictment was partially unsealed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, where the U.S. Attorney formally announced the charges.

Three defendants — Daniela Alejandra Sanchez Ramirez, Jhoan Sebastian Sanchez Ramirez, and Alexandra Patricia Sanchez Ramirez — were arrested at Newark Liberty International Airport while attempting to board a one-way flight to Colombia. Another defendant, Marlyn Yulitza Salazar Pineda, was arrested at a restaurant in New Jersey. A fifth defendant remains outside U.S. custody. Daniela, Jhoan, and Alexandra Ramirez are siblings. Daniela, Jhoan, and Pineda were in the United States as immigration parolees, while Alexandra Ramirez held a tourist visa. According to court filings, the defendants allegedly operated a fake immigration law firm named CM Bufete De Abogados Consultoria Migratoria. Using social media platforms such as Facebook, they targeted immigrants seeking legal assistance and charged fees ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars for fraudulent services. None of the defendants were licensed attorneys in the United States. Victims received fabricated documents bearing official-looking government seals and case references, falsely suggesting their immigration matters were resolved. The group also staged fake immigration hearings through videoconferencing, impersonating immigration judges, USCIS officials, and law enforcement officers while wearing uniforms and judicial robes.

These actions caused some victims to miss legitimate immigration court hearings, resulting in serious consequences, including at least one deportation order that was later reversed. Investigators identified more than $100,000 in fraudulent payments connected to the scheme. The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty and face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Trump Proposes New Law After Indian Trucker Accident

During his February 24 State of the Union address in Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump called on Congress to pass new legislation titled the “Dalilah Law,” aimed at preventing states from issuing commercial driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. The proposal follows a June 2024 trucking accident in California that left a young girl, Dalilah Coleman, seriously injured. Coleman attended the address and received a standing ovation as Trump highlighted her case to underscore his administration’s push for stricter immigration and public safety measures. Federal authorities later identified the driver involved in the crash as Partap Singh, an undocumented migrant who entered the United States through Mexico in 2022 and is currently facing deportation proceedings.

Mamdani Tackles Aid and Immigration Tensions in White House Meeting

WASHINGTON, DC- New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani held an unannounced meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House, marking a notable encounter between two political figures who have sharply disagreed in recent months.

The meeting did not appear on the public schedule, and no media were present in the Oval Office. Hours later, Mamdani described it as “a productive meeting,” adding that he looked forward to “building more housing in New York City.”

A photograph released by the mayor showed Trump seated behind the Resolute Desk holding two mock New York Daily News front pages. One reproduced the paper’s famous 1975 headline, “Ford to City: Drop Dead.” The other was a fabricated edition reading, “Trump to City: Let’s Build,” crediting the president with supporting a “New Era of Housing.” Smaller print on the mock page claimed: “Trump Delivers 12,000+ Homes; Most Since 1973.”

City Hall spokeswoman Anna Bahr said the mayor presented “a couple of pitches

that would produce and construct more housing in a handful of projects than has happened in 50 years.” However, no specific details were provided regarding the scope, funding, or location of the proposed developments.

The visit also touched on immigration.

After leaving the White House, Mamdani wrote on X that he had raised concerns about Columbia University student Elaina Aghayeva, who had been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) earlier that morning. Mamdani said the president informed him she would be released imminently. Aghayeva was later freed.

She had been detained on February 26 after federal agents entered a residential building on Columbia University’s Manhattan campus. University officials said agents made misrepresentations to gain entry, claiming they were searching for a missing person.

Acting President Claire Shipman stated that law enforcement should coordinate with the university’s Public Safety and General Counsel before entering non-public areas.

The Department of Homeland Security told the Columbia Daily Spectator that Aghayeva’s visa had been terminated in 2016 for failing to attend classes and that she had no pending appeals.

The White House did not immediately comment.

HiIndia Newsdesk

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani held an unannounced meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House