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VOL 25 - ISSUE 42

www.theasianstar.com SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

Rustad resigns as leader of opposition BC Conservatives, Trevor Halford is interim leader John Rustad officially submitted his resignation as the leader of the B.C. Conservative party to caucus this morning, a

day after half the party’s MLAs and the party board moved to remove him and install South Surrey-White Rock MLA Trevor Halford as interim leader. “I will be remaining an MLA and carrying out the work that needs to be done with regards to representing my riding of Nechako Lakes,” said Rustad. “It’s been a great honour building this party, taking this thing from where it was, and bringing the Conservative

Why Putin is visiting Modi in Delhi

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived for a two-day visit to India, where he was embraced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of an annual summit held by both countries. Delhi and Moscow are expected to sign a number of deals during the visit, which comes months after the US increased pressure on India to stop buying Russian oil. It also comes as US President Donald Trump's administration holds a series of talks with Russia and Ukraine in an attempt to end the war. India and Russia have been close allies for decades and Putin and Modi share a warm relationship. Here's a look at why they both need each other - and what to watch for as they meet. Continued on Page 14...

party back to life in this province.” Halford told reporters that he respected Rustad’s decision to step aside and that he feels confident the caucus is focused on “the next chapter ahead.” He did not provide any details of when a leadership race might commence, saying it will be up to the party and that he will not be running to be the permanent leader. For this same reason, he said he will not be reaching out to any of the five MLAs, Elenore Sturko, Amelia Boultbee, Jordan Kealy, Dallas Brodie and Tara Armstrong, who left or were kicked out of the party under Rustad’s leadership. “I respect the role that I have as leader of this party. I also respect the fact that there’s an asterisk beside that title,” said Halford. “But I’m also not going to make decisions that are going to be made by somebody that takes over the office.” Continued on Page 6...

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South Asian CBSA officer sues Canadian and Indian governments Last October, Indian news outlets ran with what they promoted as a “landmine” story: a fugitive wanted for terrorism was on the payroll of the Canadian government. Sandeep Singh Sidhu was not only a “dreaded terrorist,” an Indian television anchor told her millions of viewers, he was also a Canada Border Services Agency superintendent. Under banners that read “Trudeau’s tax-funded terrorist” and “Kanada rewards assassin,” Indian news hosts called it a shocking revelation about “dirty Canadian secrets.” But it wasn’t true, according to the Canadian government and Sidhu’s lawyers, who allege the veteran law enforcement officer was the victim of an Indian government disinformation campaign. Continued on Page 6...

Successful estate planning seminar organized by South Asian Business Association (SABA) The South Asian Business Association (SABA) hosted a seminar on Estate Planning at the Grand Empire Banquet Hall in Surrey last week. The event brought together more than 300 people , who gained invaluable insights from KSW Lawyers Kevin Scott, Heather Blatchford,

and Fayme K. Hodal. Their expert presentations shed light on complex legal matters, while SABA directors Arvinder Bubber and Puneet Sandhar engaged the audience with thought-provoking questions during the Q&A session. In addition to providing valuable knowledge, SABA also demonstrated its commitment to

giving back to the community. During the event, SABA presented a generous $100,000 check to the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation and a $2,500 donation to the Surrey Food Bank, supporting vital local causes. A special thanks to SABA director Victor Lal, whose unwavering dedication and meticulous planning were instrumental in bringing this important event to life. With the support of sponsors like CIBC, KSW Law, and AS Bubber, and the collaboration of the KSW Law team, Victor ensured that the seminar was a resounding success. This event has undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the community. Kudos to Victor and the entire SABA team for making this crucial topic accessible and meaningful to so many!

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

‘Only the tip of the iceberg’: Calls to human trafficking hotline hit record high An organization that fights human trafficking is calling on the B.C. government to create a more targeted strategy to fight this often-hidden crime. Newly released data shows that calls to Canada’s human trafficking hotline hit a record high in 2024. The hotline received more than 5,000 calls from across the country, most linked to sex trafficking. While those numbers have not gone up in B.C., trafficking in the province remains a big concern. “Since we launched the hotline, about nine per cent of cases that we identified took place in British Columbia, but we know that’s only the tip of the iceberg, said Julia Drydyk, executive director at the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking. “And while B.C. was actually, initially, a leader in anti-human trafficking, we really haven’t seen that sustained.” Drydyk is calling on the province to

make changes. “There’s no targeted strategy, it’s been rolled into intimate partner violence and gender-based violence. Sowe’re really calling on the government of British Columbia to develop a holistic strategy,” she said. However, the province said it’s already taken action. In July, RCMP and the B.C. government announced the formation of a 12-member specialized unit with a mandate to provide a co-ordinated provincial response to human trafficking. “The investigative team has taken on five large project files, one of which is currently being assessed for charge approval by B.C. prosecutions,” said Staff Sgt. Kris Clark of the RCMP’s “E” division.

Areas of Practice ICBC/Personal Injury Immigration Law Corporate / Commercial Real Estate / Property Development

MP outraged after man who raped 13 yr old girl given time to consider how guilty plea would affect immigration status An egregious case in Ontario involving the rape of a 13-year-old girl by a non-citizen has left a Conservative MP outraged after the accused was given time to weigh how a guilty plea would affect his immigration status. The case involves a 47-year-old Bradford resident, and non-citizen, who pleaded guilty last week to “two counts of sexual interference, one charge of child luring and another to breaching his release conditions,” local news outlet BarrieToday reported. The court heard that the man met the girl at a convenience store, groomed her and later raped her, which led to two pregnancies, BarrieToday said. The girl reportedly ended up carrying one of those pregnancies to term. A publication ban is in place to protect the identity of the girl and her child. The man ignored court orders to stay away from the girl, whom he raped again while he was out on release, according to BarrieToday. After breaching the conditions of his release for a third time, he was arrested and has been in jail since, for more than two and a half years. The court also heard that the man had earlier in the case been “permitted an adjournment to explore the effect his eventual guilty pleas would have on his immigration status,” BarrieToday reported. In Canada, a permanent resident or foreign national is inadmissable if they are convicted of a criminal offence that leads to jail time of more than six months. The Crown told National Post it would be seeking a 10-year sentence. He is due back in court for sentencing on Jan. 29, 2026. The case was brought up by Alberta Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner during question period on Nov. 27. She put forward Bill C-220 , a private members’ bill that is pushing for courts not to take into account the impact that a sentence would have on an offender’s immigration status in Canada. “A senior Liberal (MP Kevin Lamoureux) debating my bill to stop leniency for serious crimes said this: ‘If someone is going out raping another individual, do we really believe they’ll get special treatment from a judge?’ The next day, there was a story of a non-Canadian raping a 13-year-old girl and impregnating her twice, and the rapist was given an adjournment to see the impact of a guilty plea on what? His immigration status,” said Rempel Garner during question period on Nov. 27 . “Will the liberals admit they were wrong?” A video clip shared by Rempel Garner on social media shows Lamoureux speaking about the bill when it was debated on Nov. 25 in the House of Commons. “There are individuals who make bad decisions. Sometimes it does not necessarily justify a deportation,” Lamoureux said during that debate. He added: “At the end of the day, with the types of crime that are being suggested, people

are going to be deported anyway. If someone is going out there and raping another individual, do we really believe that they are going to get special treatment from a judge when they go before a

court? It is nowhere near the degree to which the Conservatives are trying to put it on the record.” Those opposing the bill said it would take away judicial independence and discretion, and it discriminates against non-citizens who are often trying to integrate into Canadian society. During question period on Nov. 27, Liberal MP Ruby Sahota responded to Rempel Garner’s question of whether the Liberals would admit “they were wrong.” “There are provisions in place if a non-citizen commits a crime and serves a sentence, they are removed from Canada,” she said. “CBSA works on these cases and they prioritize criminal cases, in fact, when making removals.” “In recent years, there have been multiple instances of judges issuing sentences to noncitizens convicted of serious crimes that were designed to allow them to evade deportation,” said Rempel Garner on Nov. 25. This creates a “twotiered justice system between non-citizens and those with Canadian citizenship.” She called it “unfair” and listed seven examples of convicted non-citizens who received “lenient sentences in very recent history.” Included in that list was a case involving a 20-year-old Indian man residing in Canada on a student visa. He pleaded guilty to four counts of voyeurism, National Post reported in October. “Despite the judge admitting that six to 12 months would have been a more appropriate sentence, this was to avoid deportation. The judge even said this,” Rempel Garner said. Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre, who has been outspoken about his support for “jail, not bail,” when it comes to repeat offenders, said it was an “unbelievable perversion of justice” that non-citizen criminals were receiving lower sentences “in order to allow them to stay.” “It should be a stated policy of our system to get criminals out of Canada,” he said, while speaking in favour of Bill C-220. “If someone is not a citizen, not a Canadian, and commits a crime, then they should be shown the door.”

City of Vancouver lays off dozens of staff following property tax freeze

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The City of Vancouver has notified approximately 30 non-unionized staff members that their roles will be ending, according to an email from the city manager. It comes after the city’s direction to freeze property taxes next year. On Thursday, Donny van Dyk called the changes significant, adding, “I know many of us are thinking about our colleagues who are no longer with the organization.” Van Dyk’s email continued, saying the city leadership team will “review structures and staffing to align operations with the 2026 Budget,” adding, additional changes are expected early next year. As for unionized positions, van Dyk said they have not confirmed details, but that conversations with the unions have started.

A virtual town hall will be held Dec. 8. In an email, the City of Vancouver said termination notices were issued to staff across a number of departments, including engineering services. In November, the unions representing city workers confirmed approximately 400 positions, two-thirds of which are expected to be unionized, would be cut. The cuts stem from Mayor Ken Sim’s successful ‘Zero Means Zero’ motion, that directed staff to find around $120 million in savings.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

Millions of dollars worth of fraud alleged to have happened at BC social development ministry A Global News investigation is revealing the many ways the Social Development and Poverty Reduction Ministry is exposed to potential fraud. Whistleblowers have come forward with allegations that the ministry is handing out what could be millions of dollars to help people who don’t really need it. “There’s fraud, a ton of fraud, and we’re not being responsible with the funds and I don’t think that the average person has any idea what’s really going on,” a whistleblower who has more than 20 years of experience in what is now called the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction told. She said there is little accountability and managers are turning a blind eye.

She added they are not asking for verification, “mostly because of being overwhelmed with increasing caseload.” She said there are also “political concerns” meaning “trying to take back monies or hold clients accountable, there’s very little appetite to do that.” “There are strategies put in place to complete the work faster, which means we are letting certain things go, such as proper verification.” More and more people are applying for assistance in B.C. every day and staff are being encouraged by bosses to just issue cheques to all people, often skipping proper verification. “Clients can be anyone in all walks of life, have

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BC’s newest political party OneBC takes hard stance against reconciliation

mental health or adopt addiction issues, to people who run businesses within our community and are financially successful,” the whistlerblower said. “It’s people who have much more money in their bank account than I do or probably anyone on this block.” Obtained documents, rife with numerous examples, flagged by multiple ministry staff this past year alone. Applicant one had more than $100,000 cash, disqualifying them for disability assistance. This does not include their house, vehicle, and some investments. So they dumped $30,000 on their son’s annual private school tuition. The government check was approved, with no repercussions for disposing of assets. Applicant two overpaid almost $10,000 in shelter allowance they never should have received after failing to tell the ministry their financial situation had vastly improved. Three years passed and the ministry never checked. If approved, the penalty is repayment of $20 a month, with no interest, and more than 41 years to return the money owed to taxpayers. Applicant three received more than $6,000 a month in government money for the family, minus shelter expenses. There’s almost $5,000 left in the bank every month, but the client is still asking for more money in crisis supplements to cover food and clothing. “We take an oath of employment that we’re going to be careful fiscally,” the whistlerblower said, adding that it feels like she is lying and being asked to do something that’s not fair or to be held accountable to a certain measure, but then incapable of fulfilling it. About a quarter of a million people receive income and disability assistance every month in B.C. with the projected budget being $1.6 billion over the next three years.

BC’s newest political party, OneBC, came into the spotlight this week after their leader tried to host a public, unsanctioned event at UVic. The public speaking event focused on denying the existence of 215+ unmarked graves at the Kamloops Residential School, and refuting the fact that what was done to Indigenous Peoples in Canada qualifies as a form of genocide. There, over 100 protesters were waiting for OneBC leader and MLA for Vancouver-Quilchena Dallas Brodie, who showed up alongside her supporters and special guest speakers. As a result of this unsanctioned event, one of Brodie’s speakers was arrested, the group were escorted from campus and Brodie herself was told never to return. Since this went down on Tuesday, December 2nd, Brodie has launched a petition to

have the BC government immediately defund UVic. On Wednesday, December 3rd, Brodie spoke in the Legislative Assembly of BC to this point, calling on Premier Eby to defund the university immediately. Brodie claimed that she and Frances Widdowson, a former professor who was fired for her publicly disputed views, went to UVic to speak out about the unmarked graves in Kamloops. She expressed outrage over what she believes to be a lie perpetuated by UVic faculty, staff and students. “If I were the premier I would defund UVic today,” she said. “So that’s my question Mr. Premier, will the premier immediately suspend funding to the University of Victoria to end this anti-Canadian indoctrination.”

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

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OPINION

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

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New Delhi’s choices, Moscow’s leverage, and implications beyond trade

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By Abdul Mussawer Safi Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi on December 4–5, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in international diplomacy and raises pressing questions about India’s foreign policy direction. As one of Moscow’s most important economic, military, and technological partners, India faces the challenge of balancing its national interests with broader global responsibilities. The 23rd Indo‑Russian Summit is expected to advance cooperation in defence, trade, energy, and security, even as delays in S‑400 deliveries and setbacks in aircraft upgrades highlight concerns about India’s operational readiness. New Delhi’s cautious tone ahead of the meeting reflects a deliberate strategy of restraint, and deeper engagement with a state under wide international sanctions risks undermining global norms and intensifying criticism of opportunistic diplomacy. For India, greater transparency and a more substantial commitment to multilateral rules would not only safeguard its credibility but also contribute to regional stability and peace. Key diplomatic indicators reveal a complex relationship between Washington and Moscow, particularly in India’s nuanced approach. Political analysts indicate that New Delhi is intentionally minimizing the significance of its diplomatic engagement with Russia to align more closely with U.S. expectations, as India is seen as a strategic counterbalance to China, which has strong ties with Moscow. Experts suggest that India is concealing specific defense discussions under American pressure. At the same time, Russia is poised to address sensitive matters, such as the perceived U.S. influence on the cancellation of Indian oil deals. Since the 2025 India-Pakistan standoff, Prime Minister Modi has notably avoided direct interactions with Donald Trump. This balancing act seeking discounted Russian military supplies and oil while fostering a strategic partnership with Washington—has led to perceptions of India’s unreliability by both superpowers. While India professes neutrality, its actions demonstrate reliance on Russia, as evidenced by consistent abstentions on

significant UN resolutions and the exploitation of discounted Russian resources. India has leveraged Russia’s geopolitical isolation to acquire discounted oil, arms, and technology, thereby extending the duration of the Ukraine conflict. The country’s military legacy is closely tied to Russia, with 68-70% of its arsenal sourced from there, contradicting its public claims to be diversifying its defense relationships. Additionally, President Putin’s recent visit to India highlights the facade of India’s proclaimed “strategic autonomy,” especially in light of U.S. threats of tariffs. India’s increasing reliance on Russia enables Moscow to manipulate New Delhi’s foreign policy vis-à-vis U.S. and EU sanctions. Furthermore, India employs deception as a tool of statecraft, orchestrating false narratives during highprofile foreign visits to gain international support and propagate a victimization storyline.

Major terror attacks in India often coincide with significant visits by foreign dignitaries, a pattern noted by defense experts that seems to heighten tensions with Pakistan. Historical incidents supporting this claim include the Chittisinghpura Massacre on March 20, 2000, during President Bill Clinton’s visit, when 35 Sikh villagers were killed, leading to heightened tensions and overshadowing peace efforts. Similarly, the 2011 Mumbai Triple Blasts occurred just days before Secretary Hillary Clinton’s high-level talks in New Delhi, resulting in 26 casualties. The Jaipur Serial Bombings on May 13, 2008, happened before critical diplomatic outreach to Pakistan, while the Pahalgam Attack on April 22, 2025, resulted in 26 tourist fatalities during Vice President JD Vance’s visit to India. Finally, a car bomb blast near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10, 2025, preceded Prime Minister Netanyahu’s visit.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

BC judge finds murderer in contempt over ‘inmate code’ refusal to answer questions A British Columbia judge says a man convicted in the notorious Surrey Six murder case is guilty of contempt of court for refusing to answer questions out of fear of violating the “inmate code” against co-operating with law enforcement. Cody Haevischer was found guilty of six counts of first-degree murder and one count of conspiracy to commit murder in October 2014, seven years after the gangland execution of six people at a Surrey apartment tower.

Haevischer is challenging his convictions in B.C. Supreme Court, claiming police misconduct amounted to an abuse of process along with “oppressive conditions” while he was in jail awaiting trial. A ruling from Justice Martha Devlin posted online Thursday says Haevischer was cited for contempt after refusing to answer the Crown’s questions while testifying in July in his ongoing evidentiary hearing. “Haevischer testified to his belief that violating the inmate code would place his life in immediate danger within jail,” the ruling says. Haevischer refused to answer questions about the other people involved in the murders, including fellow members of the Red Scorpions gang, citing a “code” among inmates that prohibits co-operation with law enforcement under threat of “extreme violence.” He told the court that “naming names or cooperating in any way” would make him a “rat” in

the eyes of other inmates, knowing his refusal could jeopardize his credibility and possibly cost him his freedom. “But if I did answer these questions and name names and talk about other people’s roles, it would put my life in danger,” he said. “It would cost me my life.” Haevischer said it was common knowledge and part of prison culture that “ratting” on someone by giving evidence about their role in a crime is a violation of the “code.” “You can’t do that,” he said. The ruling says he then gave his account of the murders, and denied shooting the victims or being in the apartment when the murders occurred, an account “clearly inconsistent with the findings of guilt made against him.” Justice Devlin says Haevischer also “conspicuously” omitted any mention of another perpetrator known as Person X, who pleaded guilty to three of the killings and the conspiracy to commit the murders. He refused to answer the Crown’s questions that challenged his “narrative” about the murders, which spurred the citation for contempt, the ruling says. Haevischer said he was refusing “regretfully” and without disrespect to the court, but was told by the judge that he was expected to answer questions and “your inmate code, as you’ve described it, isn’t a code that prevails in this courtroom.” The ruling says Haevischer refused to answer the questions, and his claims of being under duress due to the possibility of being harmed or killed by fellow inmates lacked “an air of reality.” Haevischer, the ruling says, claimed he was presented with an “impossible” choice to either answer questions and be labelled a “rat” or refuse to answer and be found in contempt. “To protect the integrity of these proceedings and the justice system as a whole, I am satisfied that Mr. Haevischer’s contemptuous behaviour must be met with criminal sanction.”

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John Rustad resigns as leader of BC Conservative Party, Trevor Halford takes on interim role Continued from Page 1... The drama began Wednesday morning with a letter signed confidentially by 20 of the 39 Conservative MLAs, and sent by lawyer Bruce Hallsor, managing partner of Crease Harman LLP, to party president Aisha Estey, that said a majority of the caucus had lost support for their leader. Rustad then appeared before television cameras and told reporters that he had no intention of stepping down and stating that there was no way the board or caucus could force him out of his position given the only mechanisms for doing so are through a leadership vote or if the leader resigns, dies or is incapacitated. “I went through a leadership review. We went through this province. We actually had the largest turnout by probably double of any other leaders of any other political party, in terms of how they have gone through a leadership review, and I received 71 per cent of the support,” he said. “Some people obviously don’t accept that. I understand that. Happy to hear their voices on it, but it doesn’t change that I’m moving forward as the leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia.” Board members disagreed with that assertion and by early afternoon Wednesday had ruled that a majority of MLAs wanting the leader gone meant he was “professionally incapacitated” and could be removed. A caucus vote conducted earlier that morning led to Halford being announced as interim leader. This led to extraordinary scenes in the legislature with most MLAs urging Rustad to leave quietly while a small group of loyalists — caucus chair Jody Toor of Langley-Willowbrook, deputy whip Reann Gasper of Abbotsford-Mission

and Sharon Hartwell of Bulkley Valley Stikine — among them, stating that nothing had changed. “There is an order to this process and this is out of order,” said Gasper. For his part, Rustad argued that board had not read the party’s constitution and that “creative terminology” does not allow them to remove him.

Even Halford appeared unsure of whether or not he was actually interim leader, saying that “we’re trying to figure that out.” Ultimately, Rustad entered the chamber and sat in the leader’s chair one last time while Halford entered flanked by roughly a dozen supportive caucus members. By the end of the day, the situation was no clearer and as session wrapped up for winter break it appeared as if a resolution might not come until the new year. But by Thursday morning, it appeared Rustad had accepted what might have been inevitable. “I think there’s plenty of opportunities to have fought this and to go forward and do this, but essentially that’s saying I want a civil war, I want to have sides divided, I want to take our party and and drag it through a fight,” Rustad said. “And I just look at that, and I think that’s not why I built this Conservative party.”

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www.TheAsianStar.com South Asian CBSA officer sues Canadian and Indian governments Continued from Page 1... And now Sidhu, a lifelong British Columbia resident who has spent the past two decades safeguarding Canada’s frontiers, is pushing back against those he says threw his life into turmoil. In a lawsuit against India’s government filed in the Ontario court on Tuesday, Sidhu accused the South Asian nation of recklessly making him the face of a ploy aimed at embarrassing Canada. He is also suing the Canadian government, which he says failed to defend him from the statesponsored scheme that forced him into hiding amid calls for his arrest and killing. The case is a rare attempt to seek accountability for the falsehoods that India’s government and its loyal news outlets and social media users have been widely accused of peddling. And it comes as Prime Minister Mark Carney is deepening ties with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government despite mounting evidence of its attacks on Canadians. The lawsuit, which seeks $9 million in personal injury damages, alleges that New Delhi spread fabrications about Sidhu to hit back at Ottawa for accusing India of committing violence in Canada. Sidhu, who goes by “Sunny,” was singled out by India because he had a common Sikh name and a visible, uniformed position within the Canadian national security apparatus, they said in a statement of claim. For those reasons, India made him the “patsy” of an effort to punish Canada for blaming it for an assassination in Surrey, B.C., and a list of other crimes, the lawsuit alleges.

“Sunny became merely an instrument of India’s propaganda machine to falsely accuse Canada of employing and supporting a Khalistani extremist,” the statement of claim reads. As a result of the “coordinated foreign interference” offensive, Sidhu was subjected to a “tidal wave of aggressive misinformation” and calls for his extradition and murder, the suit alleges. But the CBSA would not provide him with any protection and threatened him with suspension or termination unless he cooperated with intrusive background checks that ultimately cleared him, it said. “The CBSA did nothing to help him and instead mocked the death threats against him and advised him that this was not a work-related matter,” according to the claim filed by Sidhu’s Toronto lawyer, Jeffrey Kroeker. The CBSA has not yet responded to a request for comment. Sidhu was born in B.C. and is not involved in Indian politics, nor is he a practising Sikh. Until recently, his public exposure was limited to cameos in the reality television series Border Security. Being the target of a foreign state, one that federal authorities have accused of assassinating another Canadian India had labelled a terrorist, was life-altering, the suit claims. Amid the relentless threats and harassment, he turned to alcohol and admitted himself to a rehab program at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver. Smeared by India, he was then abandoned by Canada, according to the suit, as officials who had a duty to help him “instead took every opportunity to turn their back on him and wash their hands of responsibility.”

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

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Hundreds of Vancouver Island mill workers lose Police in Abbotsford, launch exit-support program jobs ahead of Christmas to address extortions’ roots Pulp and paper giant Domtar is closing its Crofton paper mill, forcing 350 people out of work with Christmas just around the corner. On Tuesday, the company announced the mill would close permanently due to lack of access to affordable wood in B.C. The 60-year-old mill will cease operations on Dec. 15, but some workers will be retained until February. “These decisions are made with careful consideration and we recognize the hardship this decision will have on both our employees and the Cowichan Valley community as well as our business partners and the coastal forest sector,” said Steve Henry, Domtar’s president of paper and packaging. The Crofton mill is halfway between Victoria and Nanaimo “Our primary focus is on the safety and well-being of our employees as we navigate the coming weeks,” Henry said, adding the company was exploring a variety of possibilities for the site’s future. North Cowichan Mayor Rob Douglas, whose grandfather helped build the original mill, called the news devastating for his community, since it will have ripple effects on other businesses and services. The district also saw the layoff of 150 workers in June at a Western Forest Products mill in Chemainus due to sagging lumber markets and record tariffs and penalties imposed by the U.S. “Once you lose those good union jobs, it’s pretty tough to get them back,” said Douglas. “These are real people being impacted by this. They have

families to support, mortgages, and they’re paying bills and supporting other businesses. It affects our entire community, so it’s pretty tough to swallow right now.” Douglas said he would be meeting with Premier David Eby, Forests Minister Ravi Parmar and Labour Minister Jennifer Whiteside on Wednesday afternoon to discuss next steps. Parmar said the closure was “gut-wrenching for workers.” B.C. Conservative MLA Aaron Gunn said the impact of the closure would be felt throughout the province. “Already, we have seen 150 Islanders lose their jobs at the Western Forest Products’ sawmill in Chemainus and 165 more job losses in 100 Mile House after the West Fraser Timber mill shut down. Today’s closure is yet another blow to B.C.’s forestry industry, which continues to feel the consequences of the Liberals’ failure to get a softwood deal,” Gunn said.

First Nations receive $18 million in World Cup-related payments from BC government The government of British Columbia has given $6 million to each of the three First Nations that claim Vancouver as their ancestral territory ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. How the Musqueam, Squamish, and TsleilWaututh Nations will spend the cash has not been revealed. The funds did not come with any conditions. Musqueam Chief Wayne Sparrow claimed that they did, however he refused to divulge the details. Squamish Nation Chairperson Sxwíxwtn-Wilson Williams' explanation was slightly less opaque. "As partners in the planning, staging, and hosting of FIFA World Cup 26, the funding provided by the Province of BC to Skwxxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) will go towards all aspects of bringing these games to life in our Territory," he told the outlet. " Wilson Williams noted that "this includes support staff and other resources intended to create a positive FIFA World Cup 26 experience both for attendees from around the world, and our

Skwxxwú7mesh People," adding that "funds will also go towards recreational legacy projects for our community." In June, Premier David Eby signed a memorandum of understanding with the leaders of all three aforementioned Nations "committing to work together as partners to host FIFA World Cup 26 matches in Vancouver." There was no mention then of such payments. That $18 million is just a drop in the bucket of the total estimated cost of hosting seven games in Vancouver, which has ballooned to over $600 million.

Police in Abbotsford, B.C., have launched a new program targeting people involved in planning or carrying out extortion-related violence, offering them an exit strategy. The department says the new intervention and exit program is designed for people recruited into extortion violence, noting that organized crime groups “have long exploited vulnerable individuals for criminal activities.” Police say vulnerable people such as youths and young adults are often lured to take part by the possible financial gains and difficult circumstances they might be in, and the program offers support for people seeking another way out. Abbotsford police established a local task force to fight extortion this year, in addition to taking part

in a similar provincial operation that is dedicated to the cases after a rise in violence linked to such crimes over the last two years. Extortion-related violence has been blamed in a number of shootings in both Abbotsford and Surrey, and it’s also a problem in some communities in Alberta and Ontario. Abbotsford Mayor and Police Board Chair Ross Siemens says in a statement that the new project is an attempt to address extortion-violence “at its roots.” “Violence and extortion have no place in Abbotsford, and we are hopeful that those involved in extortion-related crime connect with Project Disengage and get the help they need to safely and permanently exit this lifestyle,” Siemens says.

Crime Stoppers "MOST WANTED - MUGSHOTS"

Name: GIRITEKA, Alex Age: 35 Height: 5’10” ft Weight: 139lbs Hair: Black Eyes: Brown Wanted: Fail to Comply with Probation and Mischief Warrant in effect: November 18, 2025 Parole Jurisdiction: Chilliwack, BC

Name: JATTANA, Ramandeep Age: 30 Height: 5’9” ft Weight: 177lbs Hair: Black Eyes: Brown Wanted: Assault and Mischief Warrant in effect: November 18, 2025 Parole Jurisdiction: Chilliwack, B.C

Name: SODERBERG, Colllin Age: 31 Height: 5’11” ft Weight: 224lbs Hair: Brown Eyes: Brown Wanted: Unlawfully at Large Warrant in effect: November 20, 2025 Parole Jurisdiction: Vancouver with Canada Wide Warrants

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

B.C. gov't files lawsuit to seize 3 alleged Hells Angels clubhouses British Columbia's director of civil forfeiture wants to seize three clubhouses from the Hells Angels, claiming properties in Surrey, Mission and Pitt Meadows were used by the motorcycle club to carry out unlawful activities, including drug trafficking and murder. The director's lawsuit filed in B.C. Supreme Court on Wednesday says the Surrey clubhouse is owned by two defendants, who have allegedly allowed the property to be used by the club since 2018. The lawsuit says the Mission clubhouse is owned by a numbered company, while the Pitt Meadows property is owned by Haney Farms Ltd., a company directed by two alleged Hells Angels chapter members. The lawsuit says that the Hells Angels is a criminal organization with a global presence and a "reputation for violence," with members committing crimes for the organization's benefit, including drug trafficking, murder and extortion. The defendants have not filed a response to the lawsuit. Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger says B.C. is finding ways to take away assets from gangs and strip them of criminal profits. "Organized crime has no place in B.C., and our

government has been working with focus and resolve to go after gangs and remove the profits of criminal activities," she said in a statement. The lawsuit follows the successful forfeiture bid for Hells Angels clubhouses in Nanaimo, Vancouver and Kelowna in 2023. Lawyers representing the motorcycle club attempted to take the case all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada, in what ended up being a 16-year legal battle following the application to seize the properties. The forfeited Vancouver property was ultimately listed for sale, while the Kelowna clubhouse was sold and the Nanaimo property was demolished. The Public Safety Ministry says that, since 2006, more than $93 million in civil forfeiture recovery funds have been disbursed as community grants.

1 arrested after apartment fire near downtown in Prince George RCMP say one person has been arrested following an apartment fire on the edge of downtown Prince George, B.C., on Thursday. Shortly after noon, multiple fire trucks responded to the fire at the Connaught Hill Residences along Queensway, one of the main roads connecting downtown Prince George to the Millar Addition neighbourhood and beyond. In a statement, the city says the fire was contained to a small number of units, "however smoke and water damage is yet to be determined." By 4 p.m. PT, five fire trucks were still on the scene and the road outside the building remained closed. The city says it has activated its emergency operations centre and support services, but did

not have an estimate of how many people were impacted by the blaze. The Connaught Hill Residences advertises itself as having 94 units spread across 12 floors.

RCMP said they could not provide any more information on the arrest or the fire, as the investigation is still ongoing.

BC man, company misled investors, obstructed justice, says $30K settlement agreement A Mission, B.C., man and his company have agreed to pay $30,000 to a provincial regulator and be banned from financial markets for an extended period of time. Colin Frederick Eggen and Novum AI agreed to the sanctions in a settlement with the B.C. Securities Commission this week. The settlement agreement was published online Thursday. According to the document, Eggen was the sole director of Novum, which claimed on its website that it used “algorithmic trading” to invest in currency exchange, gold and cryptocurrency markets, generating annual returns of up to 150 per cent. The company’s website also claimed that its technology was developed by more than 60 “scientists, researchers and financial analysts with a proven track record of growing wealth” and had a fund size of $50 million. In fact, the technology was not developed in the manner described, according to the settlement. The company’s fund was worth approximately $500,000, not $50 million, and it had never generated returns in the 60 to 150 per cent range, as claimed. Between September 2022 and June 2023, Novum entered investment contracts with 12 people,

who invested a total of roughly $480,000. The settlement agreement notes that these contracts were “securities,” and the company was not registered to trade securities. “The investors lost all of their money,” the settlement reads. In the agreement, Eggen admits that Novum’s statements about its technology, assets and returns were “false or misleading,” and that as the company’s director he “authorized, permitted or acquiesced” to the company’s statements and its unregistered trading. Eggen also admits that he obstructed justice by deleting text messages from his phone after BCSC investigators contacted him about the allegations against Novum. The settlement agreement indicates Eggen initially told investigators he had recently replaced his phone and no longer had access to his old text messages. However, he later admitted under oath that he had deleted the texts. As discipline for these violations of securities law, Eggen agreed to pay the regulator $30,000 and be banned from most investment market activities for a period of 25 years. Novum agreed to be banned from the market permanently.

BC police watchdog clears officers in shooting death of 15-year-old in Surrey B.C.'s police watchdog says there are no reasonable grounds to believe an officer committed any offence in the shooting death of a 15-year-old in Surrey earlier this year. The Independent Investigations Office of B.C. (IIO) was called in to look into what happened after Chase De Balinhard was fatally shot by police on Feb. 9, 2025. Jessica Berglund, chief civilian director with the IIO, says the agency has been given permission by the teen's parents to use his name. According to the IIO's report released Dec. 4, De Balinhard, who was autistic and had attentiondeficit hyperactivity disorder, called police threatening suicide. Officers responded, along with Car 67 — the police mental health outreach unit that includes a mental health nurse — but when the teen pointed what appeared to be a gun at police, two officers shot at him, the report says.

He was declared dead at the scene. The IIO is called in any time police are involved in a situation that results in death or serious harm in B.C. According to the report, when officers found the teen, he was sitting in the snow and had a realistic-looking gun. He had told the 911 operator that he did not trust police. The mental health nurse stayed in the Car 67 vehicle out of concern for their safety. As the first officer approached De Balinhard, he told the IIO that he gave a “big friendly wave” and told the teen he was with the police and there to help — to which the teen responded “something to the effect of [f--k] off,” the report says. A few minutes later, the officer said De Balinhard began walking away. Another officer approached and was about 50 metres away when he saw the gun in the teen’s hand, and told him to “drop the weapon.” De Balinhard then ran away, the officer said.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

Two Local Organizations Collaborate to Observe "Guru Ka Beta Day"Commemorating Hon. Baba Jiwan Singh Ji SURREY, BC: Two prominent local organizations, the C-FACE Society and the Chetna Association of Canada, have collaborated to observe "Guru Ka Beta Day" in honor of the legendary and respected martyr Baba Jiwan Singh ji. He was bestowed the title "Guru Ka Beta" (Son of the Guru) for his profound courage and bravery. ​ vent Details E ​Date & Time: Wednesday, December 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM ​Location: Dr. Ambedkar Room (Room 418), Surrey Center Library, 10350 University Drive, Surrey, BC. The Public is Welcome. ​ Symbol of Courage and Faith A ​The commemoration honors Baba Jiwan Singh ji, who was born and martyred in the month of December (approximately 1705). ​“We take immense inspiration from the Hon. Baba Jiwan Singh Ji who is a symbol of courage, determination, and faith,” said Bhupinder Ladhar, a board member of the C-FACE Society.

“We are also pleased to collaborate with the ​ C-FACE Society to commemorate the legend and his legacy” added Jai Birdi, president of the Chetna Association of Canada. ​ anel Discussion & Speakers P ​The event will feature a key panel discussion on the legacy of Baba Jiwan Singh ji, along with brief messages from community leaders. ​The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Seema Mahi (History Department, University of British Columbia). Panel members include: Principal Malook Chand Kaler (Founder, Lok Kavi Gurdas Ram Alam Sahit Sabha Canada) ​Ms. Tripatjit Kaur Atwal (Activist) Giani Harpreet Singh (Khalsa Diwan Society, ​ Vancouver) Contact Information ​For more information, please contact: ​Email: jpbirdi@gmail.com ​Phone (Bhupinder Singh Ladhar): +1 604-825-7820

NAME CHANGE I, Jarnail Singh S/O Mr. Mohinder Singh, holder of BCID card #114391538, issued at Surrey, on 24/08/2022, permanent resident of VPO- Khandoli , Tehsil- Rajpura, District-Patiala PIN 140401 Punjab , India and presently residing at 9130 Prince Charles Blvd, BC Canada V3V 1R5 hereby change my name from Jarnail Singh to Jarnail Singh Khandoli with immediate effect.

Drug dealer slain in Surrey as shooting linked to organized crime The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is probing the fatal shooting of a 26-yearold man in Surrey’s Guildford area, in what early indications suggest was a targeted organized crime incident. RCMP Surrey Provincial Operations Support Unit officers responded shortly before midnight on Friday, to reports of a shooting near 152 St. and 104 Ave. Officers found the man suffering life-threatening injuries. Despite emergency efforts, he died at the scene. IHIT has identified the victim as Jaskaran Birring of Chilliwack. Authorities say Birring had prior police interactions and was believed to be involved in the drug trade.

Investigators say roughly 15 minutes after the shooting, a white Dodge Ram pickup was found fully engulfed in flames near 136 St. and 115 Ave. IHIT is asking anyone with information or video footage from the area between 9:00 p.m. and midnight on Friday to come forward. IHIT is working alongside the Surrey Police Service, Integrated Forensic Identification Services, the RCMP SPOSU, and the BC Coroners Service to determine the circumstances surrounding the homicide and identify all parties involved. Those with information can contact the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

West Vancouver councillor issued a 24-hour roadside suspension West Vancouver Coun. Christine Cassidy, who is also vice-chairperson of the district’s police board, has acknowledged she was recently given a 24-hour roadside suspension. Under B.C. law, a 24-hour prohibition is issued when a police officer has reasonable grounds to believe a person’s ability to drive is affected by alcohol or drugs. The person must surrender their licence and a notice of the prohibition is sent to ICBC. Postmedia News reached out to Cassidy for comment after a source said Cassidy had an encounter with police on the evening of Nov. 18. According to the source, whom Postmedia has agreed not to identify, a member of the public contacted authorities after seeing someone they believed was intoxicated leave the Earls restaurant at Ambleside Beach. The caller provided a description of the vehicle and a licence plate number. Reached by phone, Cassidy confirmed a police officer approached her after she arrived home while she was parked in front of her house. “I got a 24-hour suspension and no more,” she said.

She said she informed Mayor Mark Sager about it the next day, but insisted it was a “nothing story.” Cassidy said she and Sager discussed the incident with a lawyer “because I was very concerned, because I have a very clean driving record.” Cassidy said she had two fiveounce glasses of wine over three hours while at Earls that night. She insisted: “I was not walking unsteadily” and that the person who called authorities “should try walking in a pair of high heels.” Cassidy suggested staff at Earls restaurant had targeted her because she told a waiter she saw mice “scurrying up the wall.” She also said the restaurant had failed a health inspection. “Yes, yes, I was targeted. There’s no question about it,” Cassidy said. Earls management said staff didn’t make a call to police. For liability reasons, the restaurant has a protocol that includes a WhatsApp chat and verbal communication when police are called on customers who have been over-served, and they had no record of that happening.

Okanagan woman gets jail, ordered to pay back $350k for 17 years of welfare fraud Multiple schemes to defraud the government over 17 years earned an Okanagan woman more than two years in jail and an order to pay back over $350,000. According to the judgement published on Nov. 27, Norlene Dale White, 66, was sentenced on Oct. 17 in Penticton court after being found guilty in 2024 by a jury of four charges of fraud over $5,000, two charges of use of a forged document and one charge of attempted fraud. White used her sisters, for whom she was caretaker, in her scheme to defraud the government. She herself was also supported by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and received benefits from them, including some that were fraudulently claimed. Out of the total, $72,000 of the fraud was attributed to claims that specialized vehicles were required to transport White’s sisters to medical appointments beyond the normal costs of mileage between 2014 and 2021. Out of the 79 approved requests for Ministry funding for the special vehicles beyond the normal mileage, 75 did not actually use those vehicles. The second fraud involved claiming moving expenses from Osoyoos to Nanaimo, based on White’s landlord, David Johnson, providing a false letter to submit to the Ministry. A year later, White claimed expenses for moving her sisters from Osoyoos to

Penticton, with Johnson once again providing a letter claiming the home the sisters were living in was slated to be demolished. This time, there was no evidence the Ministry paid the claimed expenses, which led to the attempted fraud charge. White claimed the sisters had to move a second time, this time from Penticton to Okanagan Falls in 2015, claiming their residence had been sold and claiming $9,660 in expenses. The last and most extensive fraud, which lasted from 2004 to 2021, involved White claiming support and benefits while failing to inform the ministry that she was living with Johnson, failing to inform the Ministry that they were in a marriage-like relationship and failing to disclose any of his assets. That led to $261,000 in benefits being disbursed to her by the Ministry over those 17 years. Defence for White sought to have her receive a two-year conditional sentence that would be served in the community, followed by three years of probation. A maximum sentence for the fraud was 14 years in jail, with 10 years the maximum for the forged documents. None of the case-law presented for the sentencing had amounts similar to White’s fraud. The only other one that came close, R. v. Oliynyk from 2002, involved spouses who pleaded guilty to defrauding the Department of Social Services of approximately $157,000.

FIJI

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

Constitutional review must be “right this time” President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu says any future review of Fiji’s Constitution must be done properly and with national unity in mind. He made the remarks this morning while opening the 27th AttorneyGeneral’s Conference at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort in Nadi. Reflecting in Fiji’s constitutional history, the President said the country had gone through four constitutions — 1970, 1997, 2013 and previous attempts — yet had struggled to build one that was fully accepted by the majority. “The fact that we have had four constitutions means that we have tried and failed to establish a solid foundation acceptable to most of our people,” he said. “The challenge we now face, collectively as a

nation, is to get it right this time and to strengthen our institutions of state, ensuring we never again go through political disruptions.” He said building a stable nation required unity and participation from all Fijians. “The work of nation building requires each and every one of us,” he said. President Lalabalavu also expressed support for the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, noting that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had recently testified before it. “There is much pain in our nation, and the Truth Commission offers us the opportunity to listen to each other, to learn and to come back together to rebuild our nation,” he said. “I hope that every Fijian will support its work.”

Government to stop sale of Public Service Vehicle (PSV) permits The Government has announced stricter regulations governing the transfer of Public Service Vehicle (PSV) permits, aiming to prevent commercial trading and ensure fair access, according to the Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau. Minister Tuisawau said the Land Transport Authority (LTA) would no longer accept the transfer of PSV permits through ordinary sales and purchase agreements. New regulations in regard to this will be gazetted shortly. “Transfers will now only be permitted under specific circumstances, including love and affection, migration, medical grounds, and in the event of death through probate or letters of

administration,” he said. “This change aims to uphold public interest, ensure fair access to permits, and prevent commercial trading of public transport licences.” The Minister also cautioned individuals and businesses currently negotiating sales and purchase arrangements for PSV permits to act quickly. “Once the amendments are gazetted and enforced, the Authority will strictly prohibit transfers based on sales and purchase agreements, and any incomplete transactions will no longer be recognised,” he warned. Minister Tuisawau said the changes would help ensure that PSV permits serve their intended public purpose, rather than being treated as commercial commodities.

Significant increases in traffic fines coming soon In a move aimed at enhancing road safety and compliance, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has released a new schedule of fixed penalties for several common traffic offences, with fines seeing substantial increases across the board. These fines will come into effect once the amended Land Transport (Fees and Penalties) Regulations 2000 is gazetted. The updated penalties, which come into effect immediately, target illegal parking, speeding, and failures to comply with weighing instructions. One of the most dramatic hikes is for illegal parking or stopping. The fine for this common offence has been quintupled, rising from a previous fee of $20 to a new penalty of $100. The LTA has also revised fines for speeding violations, with increases for all tiers of offence. Exceeding the speed limit by less than 15km/h – the fine has doubled from $25 to

$50. Exceeding the speed limit between 15km/h and 29km/h – the fine has risen from $40 to $75. Exceeding the speed limit by 30km/h or more – the penalty has increased from $60 to $100. For commercial drivers, the penalties for failing to stop and weigh vehicles have been standardised at new, significantly higher rates. The LTA has introduced a three-tier system based on repeat offences. First offence will have a fine $300, second offence will see a fine of $600 and subsequent offences has fine of $900. “Given recent increases in road fatalities, with 72 deaths recorded as of 28th November 2025, compared to 56 for the same period last year, and speeding identified as the leading cause, the amendments will also bring into effect higher penalties for illegal parking, stopping, and exceeding speed limits across Fiji’s roads,” said Minister for Public Works.

Couple perish in house fire AN elderly couple, Gyan Wati, 63, and Uday Chand, 62, died after they were trapped inside their burning house along Valemasima Road in Votualevu, Nadi, early yesterday morning. Their son, Uden Chand, said the fire spread so quickly that he could not open the door to save his parents. “My wife woke me up around 12am and we could feel the smoke inside the house,” he said. He opened the back door to evacuate his son and wife, but when he tried to help his parents, the whole house was on fire. “My father was yelling to open the door because the door was locked. “He was telling me to save my mother as she was sick. He was saying “please save mum”, but

I was really helpless.” He said everything in the four-bedroom house was destroyed. “I’m not sure what I will do; only what we are wearing is what we have right now.” Mr Chand and his wife and son are staying with their neighbour until they recover from this tragic incident. Meanwhile, National Fire Authority CEO Puamau Sowane said the tragic event brought immense sorrow to the NFA and the wider community. “As we await the findings of the fire investigation, let this tragedy serve as a wake-up call for all communities.” Police and the NFA are continuing investigations on the cause of the fire.

11

Two men charged after brutal assault on brothers in Labasa The two men alleged to have assaulted the two brothers in Labasa over the weekend have been charged. Police confirmed that the two men will appear at the Magistrate’s Court in Labasa tomorrow morning. It’s understood that they have been charged with assault causing bodily harm. A video footage of the assault has gone viral, showing Epeli Asaisea, who appeared intoxicated, being punched and kicked repeatedly along the main road as bystanders watched in horror. At one point, one of the men can be heard

saying to throw Asaisea to him so the beating could continue. The footage of Asaisea in the Labasa Hospital, with bandages covering his body, has sparked widespread outrage online. Many social media users have condemned the attack, calling for justice and stronger measures to prevent such violence. The matter over the broken boot window was resolved after reconciliation, with the group paying for the damage. It is understood that Asaisea filed the report himself at Labasa Police Station around 3 am yesterday.

Court jails lawyer A former court officer convicted of providing false information to a Land Transport Officer and also mishandling public funds has been sentenced to 25 months in jail. Isoa Matanitobua, 43, now a legal practitioner based in Suva, was earlier this year found guilty of more than 10 charges, including giving false information to a public servant and general dishonesty which caused a loss, in a series of incidents that occurred between 2015 and 2016. The prosecution proved in court that Matanitobua, while working as the officer in charge at the Sigatoka Magistrate’s Court, provided false information to a LTA licensing officer without getting a proper search conducted, and requesting staff to sign letters without the proper search procedure being completed. According to the ruling, the married fatherof-three was fully aware that the information he was giving were false and would be relied upon by LTA to update the records of Praveenesh Goundar, Vanavasa Limaivatu, Mohammed Shafeem, Sailosi Bara, and Misiwata Nakere concerning the TINs or traffic fines issued

against them. As a result of this, LTA issued the men with renewed driver’s licences they were not entitled

to. It was also proved that Matanitobua received and did not declare the $1616.50 received from the men. Matanitobua, who was admitted to the ar in 2022, has had his practicing certificate suspended. The court imposed a 25-month jail term for each count to be served concurrently.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

Imran Khan’s message for Pakistan's Army chief Munir from jail a day after meeting sister Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Imran Khan on Wednesday claimed that army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's policies are “disastrous” for the country and accused him of deliberately “igniting tensions” with Afghanistan. The 73-year-old former cricketer-turnedpolitician made the remarks in a social media post a day after his sister, Dr Uzma Khan, met him at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail after more than a month following Shehbaz Sharif's government's "special permission". "Asim Munir's policies are disastrous for Pakistan. Because of his policies, terrorism has spiralled out of control that grieves me deeply," Khan said in an X post in Urdu. "Asim Munir has no concern for Pakistan's national interests. He is doing all this merely to please Western powers. He deliberately ignited

tensions with Afghanistan so that he could be seen internationally as a so-called 'mujahid' (Islamic fighter)," Khan said. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder said he opposed “drone attacks and military operations against own people in the country which he said would only fuel more terrorism”. "Munir first threatened Afghans, then expelled refugees from Pakistan and carried out drone strikes whose consequences we now face in the form of rising terrorism," Khan claimed. Calling Munir a “mentally unstable man”, Khan alleged his “moral bankruptcy has led to the complete collapse of the Constitution and rule of law in Pakistan”. Khan claimed that on Munir's orders, he and his wife have been “imprisoned in fabricated cases and subjected to the worst form of psychological torture”.

Critically ill Khaleda Zia to be taken to London Family of former Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia, who remains in a critical condition here, is preparing to transfer her to London, where her son and BNP acting chairperson Tarique Rahman lives, media reports said on Thursday. Zia, the 80-year-old Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson, was admitted to a private hospital on November 23 when she developed a chest infection that affected both her heart and lungs. Four days later, the threetime PM was shifted to the coronary care unit (CCU) after several of her health complications worsened. BBC Bangla Service and Ittefaq newspaper said Zia's son and BNP's self-exiled acting chairperson Tarique Rahman's wife Zubaida Rahman, a doctor herself, is expected to arrive in

Dhaka soon to oversee the transfer of her ailing mother-in-law. “After arriving in Bangladesh, Zubaida Rahman will take her to London (after)

assessing Zia's physical condition,” at the Dhaka hospital, the BBC Bangla reported saying, several BNP leaders confirmed the decision without mentioning their names.

SOUTH ASIA

Bangladesh tribunal issues arrest warrant against deposed PM Hasina's son A special tribunal in Bangladesh on Thursday issued an arrest warrant against deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina's expatriate son Sajib Wajed Joy, a month after sentencing his mother to death on charges of committing crimes against humanity. "The tribunal issued the arrest warrant in a case filed against him for (as well) committing crimes against humanity during the July Uprising," an ICT-BD prosecutor told reporters, adding an identical warrant was issued against then junior minister for ICT affairs Junaid Ahmed Palak, who, however, is already in jail. Bangladesh's International Crime Tribunal (ICT-BD) handed down the death penalty to the ex-premier and her then home minister, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, for her attempts to

tame a student-led violent street protest dubbed the July Uprising through brutal means after their trial in absentia. Joy, 54, an information communication expert who served as the ex-premier's ICT affairs adviser, currently lives in the US. The student-led violent street movement dubbed the July Uprising toppled ex-premier Hasina's Awami League regime on August 5, 2025, while Professor Muhammad-led subsequent interim government in January published a list of 834 deaths of “July Warriors”. The UN rights commission office (OHCHR) reported 1,400 deaths between July 15 and August 15, saying the figure included the outcome of retaliatory violence against police and Awami League activists even after the fall of the past government.

India delivers 63,734 doses of Influenza and Meningitis vaccines to Afghanistan India delivered 63,734 doses of Influenza and Meningitis vaccines to Afghanistan to address urgent medical needs. In a post on X, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "Reaffirming its commitment to support Afghanistan's public health. India delivers 63,734 doses of Influenza and Meningitis vaccines to Kabul." Last week, India delivered 73 tonnes of life-saving medicines, vaccines, and essential supplements to Kabul to address urgent medical needs. In a post on X, the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, said, "Augmenting Afghanistan's healthcare efforts. India has delivered 73 tonnes of life-saving medicines, vaccines and essential supplements to Kabul to cater to urgent medical

needs. India's unwavering support to the Afghan people continues." The Ministry of External Affairs on November 3 said that India delivered food items for families affected by the earthquake in Afghanistan. Jaiswal shared images of aid sent by India. "Reaffirming its support to the Afghan people, India delivers food items for the families affected by the earthquake. India's first responder," Jaiswal said in a post on X. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday called his Afghanistan counterpart Amir Khan Muttaqi to convey condolences at the loss of lives in an earthquake that struck Balkh, Samangan and Baghlan provinces of the landlocked nation. Jaishankar said that the Indian relief material is being distributed, and supplies of medicines will reach soon.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

PUNJAB

Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh challenges 3rd NSA detention order The petition filed through counsel Arshdeep Singh Cheema, Imaan Singh Khara and Harjot Singh Mann claims that the detention is “arbitrary, void of jurisdiction and violative of constitutional safeguards under Articles 21 and 22”. It submits that Amritpal Singh has remained under preventive detention since April 2023 despite the absence of any supporting material for continued incarceration. The case is yet to come up for hearing. An advance copy of the petition has been furnished to the Union of India, along with other respondents and counsel, including Additional Solicitor-General of India Satya Pal Jain. The plea states that the latest detention order rests solely on an FIR registered on October 10, 2024. He contends that his name did not appear in the FIR and his nomination was introduced later through a DDR dated October 18, 2024. It relies on the final report

filed under Section 173, CrPC, asserting that “there was not an iota of evidence” against him linking him to the incident alleged in the FIR. The petition claims that despite this, he is continuing to be confined in Central Jail, Dibrugarh. The petition rejects the allegation that Amritpal Singh was associated with anti-national elements or was part of any design to physically eliminate individuals. It asserts that such imputations are unsupported by any material. The plea says that Amritpal Singh prior to his detention had been engaged social reform initiatives, including youth anti-addiction programmes, campaigns against drug abuse and community-oriented interventions through his organisation Waris Punjab De. His speeches, the petition states, focused on Sikh values, cultural identity and constitutional protections rather than separatism or violence.

Harjit Kaur ‘maltreated’ in US detention: EAM Responding to concerns flagged by an MP, Jaishankar referred to the account of Harjit's lawyer, who said: “Thankfully, they didn’t cuff her. One officer was going to do it but another officer said not to because of her age.” Jaishankar said Indian immigration officials had also verified that she was not restrained upon arrival. “Whenever a flight with deportees lands — chartered or commercial — our officials interview every individual. In this case, they confirmed she was not handcuffed,” he said. However, the minister acknowledged that Harjit faced poor treatment during her detention in the US. “While Harjit was not handcuffed, she was maltreated in detention before being put on the

flight. On September 26, we took up the matter with the US Embassy through a note verbale conveying our strong concern,” he told the House. Harjit, who spoke to mediapersons in Mohali after her return, had claimed she was handcuffed while being taken to the detention centre and described the eight days she spent there as “horrible”. Harjit first arrived in California in 1992 with her two young sons and had built a quiet life in Hercules, a suburb of San Francisco, working at a local saree store and later spending time with her grandchildren. Her decades in the US came to an abrupt end this September when she was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on September 8 during what she believed would be a routine reporting visit.

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Akali Dal alleges police plot to obstruct nominations of opposition candidates, posts clip as ‘proof’ Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal on Thursday accused the Punjab Police of murdering democracy by allegedly preventing opposition candidates from filing nominations for the zila parishad and block samiti poll “at the behest of the ruling AAP” on the last day of the process. He also released an audio clip to support his claim. AAP denied the charge as “baseless”, while the police maintained the clip was “fake” and “generated through AI”. The clip, which Sukhbir shared on social media, purportedly carries a conversation between Patiala SSP Varun Sharma and other officers, discussing strategies to prevent opposition

candidates from filing nomination. The Tribune could not independently verify the veracity of the recording. The SAD has also lodged a written complaint with the State Election Commission, demanding immediate suspension of the police officials involved and a probe by the CBI, NIA or any other central agency. “AAP is bending rules to suppress opposition candidates, particularly of the SAD. The clip has the recording of a conference call the previous night among senior Patiala police officers,” the SAD president said. He alleged that the officers on the call were taking instructions from the SSP on “maintaining law and order” during the nomination process.

High Court junks Bikram Majithia bail plea, fixes 3 months for probe The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday dismissed the bail petition of former Punjab minister Bikram Singh Majithia in a corruption case based on a special investigation team (SIT) report alleging accumulation of more than Rs 540 crore through illegal entities. Justice Tribhuvan Dahiya, at the same time, set a three-month deadline for the investigation’s completion. “The court is conscious of the fact that he cannot be kept in custody for an indefinite period as that would infringe his right to liberty. Also, the investigation agency owes a duty to the state to complete the investigation within a reasonable time. Therefore, it is directed that the investigation be completed within three months. Thereafter, the petitioner can seek his release on

bail,” Justice Dahiya asserted. The high court observed that Majithia was accused of serious economic offences and the investigation revealed “huge unaccounted money in his bank accounts, as also setting up of a large number of companies through which the financial transactions had been carried out surreptitiously for his benefit”. Justice Dahiya said it had come to the probe agency’s notice that money was routed through foreign entities based in Singapore and Cyprus. “The petitioner was directly or indirectly in control of most of these entities with immediate family members, and appears to be the key beneficiary,” the high court said. The Bench observed that leads to track the money trail were being followed.

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‘Insecure’ govt asking foreign leaders not to meet LoP: Rahul Gandhi Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said visiting foreign dignitaries were being discouraged from meeting him, a practice he described as a mark of the government’s “insecurity”. Speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex, Gandhi said successive governments, from the Vajpayee era to the Manmohan Singh years, had upheld the norm of ensuring that the LoP met foreign leaders. He claimed that this convention was being quietly abandoned. “The government does not represent India alone. Meetings with the Opposition leader offer an alternative viewpoint and reflect the democratic character of the country. But during my visits abroad as well

as when high-level delegations travel to India, subtle signals are sent that the Opposition leader should be kept off their schedule,” alleged Gandhi. Gandhi argued that the reluctance to facilitate these interactions stemmed from the ruling dispensation’s own sense of vulnerability. Without naming the Russian President, he said the pattern was consistent irrespective of who was visiting the country. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said it was “deeply unusual” and ran counter to the long-standing norms. She said the established protocol required foreign dignitaries to meet the LoP, but the current dispensation “seemed intent on stifling every alternative voice.”

India tells smartphone makers to put state-run cyber safety app on new devices

India has ordered all new smartphones to come pre-loaded with a state-run cybersecurity app, sparking privacy and surveillance concerns. Under the order - passed last week but made public on Monday - smartphone makers have 90 days to ensure all new devices come with the government's Sanchar Saathi app, whose "functionalities cannot be disabled or restricted". It says this is necessary to help citizens verify the authenticity of a handset and report the suspected misuse of telecom resources. The move - which comes in one of the world's largest phone markets, with more than 1.2 billion mobile users - has been criticised by cyber experts, who say it breaches citizens' right to privacy. Under the app's privacy

policy, it can make and manage phone calls, send messages, access call and message logs, photos and files as well as the phone's camera. "In plain terms, this converts every smartphone sold in India into a vessel for state mandated software that the user cannot meaningfully refuse, control, or remove," advocacy group Internet Freedom Foundation said in a statement. Amid the growing criticism, India's Minister of Communications Jyotiradtiya Scindia has clarified that mobile phone users will have the option to delete this app if they don't want to use it. "This is a completely voluntary and democratic system - users may choose to activate the app and avail its benefits, or if they do not wish to, they can easily delete it from their phone at any time," he wrote on X.

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SC asks HCs to give list of acid attack cases within 4 weeks The Supreme Court on Thursday took exception to inordinate delay in completion of trial in acid attack cases and directed all 25 High Courts to submit within four weeks details of such pending cases across India. “The offence is of 2009 and the trial is not completed… If the national capital cannot respond to these challenges, then who will deal with it? It’s a shame on the system...,” a Bench of Chief Justice of India and Justice Joymalya Bagchi said, expressing surprise over the 16-year delay in completion of trial in a case of petitioner Shaheen Malik — an acid attack victim. Malik has filed a PIL on the issue. The Bench suggested setting up special courts for expeditious disposal of acid attack cases. The trial in the petitioner’s case must be held on a day-to-day basis, the court said, adding that it might even take suo motu cognisance of the issue. The top court asked the petitioner to file an application seeking directions to expedite the trial. “File an application in the PIL. We will direct that the trial be held every day,” the CJI said, while posting her case for further hearing next week.

The SC asked the Centre to consider amending the law or even promulgating an ordinance to formally include acid attack survivors within the definition of “persons with disabilities” under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act to enable them to avail of welfare schemes. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the accused should be met with “the same ruthlessness”, and added that government would take up the issue with “due seriousness”. Malik told the Bench that there were several cases in which victims were forced to consume acid, leading to severe long-term disability. Many of them were unable to walk and remained dependent on artificial food pipes for survival, she submitted. Narrating her ordeal, Malik said she was attacked in 2009, yet the trial had not concluded. “Till 2013, nothing happened in the case and the trial, which is now taking place in Rohini, Delhi, is now in the stage of final hearing,” she added. Malik said she had lost all hope in the system until a judge — Dr Parminder Kaur — took up the matter.

Why Putin is visiting Modi in Delhi Continued from Page 1... That makes it a hugely attractive market for Russian goods and resources - especially oil. India is the world's third largest consumer of crude oil and has been buying large volumes from Russia. That wasn't always the case. Before the Kremlin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, only 2.5% of India's oil imports were Russian. That figure jumped to 35% as India took advantage of Russian price discounts prompted by sanctions against Moscow and Russia's restricted access to the European market. India was happy. Washington less so. Earlier this year, the Trump administration slapped an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, arguing that by purchasing oil from Russia, India was helping to fund the Kremlin's war chest. Orders from India for Russian oil have since dropped. President Putin will be keen for India to keep buying. For Moscow, weapons sales to India are another priority and have been since Soviet times. Ahead of Putin's visit, there were reports that India plans to purchase state-of-the-art Russian fighter jets and air defence systems. Russia, hit by a labour shortage, also sees India as a valuable source of skilled workers. But there's geopolitics at play, too. The Kremlin enjoys demonstrating that Western efforts to isolate it over the war in Ukraine have failed. Flying to India and meeting Prime Minister Modi is one way of doing that. So is travelling to China and holding talks with Xi Jinping, as Putin did three months ago. He met Modi on the same trip. The image of the

three leaders smiling and chatting together sent a clear message that, despite the war in Ukraine, Moscow has powerful allies who support the concept of a "multi-polar world". Russia lauds its "no limits partnership" with China. It is just as vocal about its "special and privileged strategic partnership" with India. That is a stark contrast to Moscow's strained relationship with the European Union. I think the Kremlin is sure that the West, including Europe, totally failed," believes Novaya Gazeta columnist Andrei Kolesnikov.

"We are not isolated, because we have connections to Asia and the Global South. Economically, this is the future. In that sense Russia returned as the main actor in these parts of the globe, like the Soviet Union. But even the Soviet Union had special channels and connections to the US, West Germany and France. It had a multi-vector policy. "But now we are totally isolated from Europe. This is unprecedented. Our philosophers always said that Russia was a part of Europe. Now we're not. This is a big failure and a big loss. I'm sure that part of Russia's political and entrepreneurial class is dreaming of returning to Europe and of doing business not only with China and India."

Safeguarding India-Russia ties from Trump pressure is top priority for Putin, says Russian analyst Protecting Russia’s relationship with India from the pressure of the United States administration is a top priority for Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to a leading analyst in Moscow. Mr. Putin is set to arrive in Delhi on Thursday (December 4, 2025) for his first state visit to India since the beginning of the Ukraine conflict. “Our countries are united by many years of friendship and strategic cooperation. Both bilateral relations and collaboration within international organisations are steadily developing. The agenda of the New Delhi talks is driven primarily by the need to adapt to strong external pressure from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump,” Mr. Plotnikov said. He predicted that eventually, India will not cut down on its imports of Russian crude, as it is to India’s advantage to buy Russian energy. “By purchasing

Russian oil, which makes up a substantial share of Indian imports, India earns a good profit. Why would anyone refuse an opportunity to replenish their treasury by accepting advantageous offers?” Mr. Plotnikov asked. Official sources had earlier told The Hindu that India and Russia are expected to sign a deal on mobility during Mr. Putin’s India visit. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the issue at a conclave jointly organised by India’s World magazine and the Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday, saying that intergovernmental agreements on mobility are a “very important part of our diplomacy”. “We have 21 such agreements, in addition to which we have mobility provisions in some of the free trade agreements that we have done,” Mr. Jaishankar said in his speech.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025

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Modi Govt wants to merge 12 banks into 4 mega ‘world-class’ lending giants The Centre is mulling over consolidating public-sector banks, and officials involved in the process say the long-term plan could eventually bring down the number of state-owned lenders from 12 to possibly just 4. The goal is to build a banking system that is large enough in scale, has deeper capital strength and is prepared to meet the credit needs of a fast-growing economy. The minister explained that bigger banks are better equipped to support large-scale lending and long-term projects. “The country’s economy is moving rapidly toward the $5 trillion mark. The government is active in building bigger banks that can meet rising requirements,” she said. Sitharaman recently confirmed that the government and the Reserve Bank of India have already begun detailed conversations on another round of mergers. She said the focus is on creating “world-class” banks that can support India’s expanding industries, rising infrastructure

investments and overall credit demand. She clarified that this is not only about merging institutions. The government and RBI are working on strengthening the entire banking ecosystem so that banks grow naturally and operate in a stable environment. According to her, the core aim is to build stronger, more efficient and globally competitive banks that can help sustain India’s growth momentum. At present, the country has a total of 12 public sector banks: the State Bank of India (SBI), the Punjab National Bank (PNB), the Bank of Baroda, the Canara Bank, the Union Bank of India, the Bank of India, the Indian Bank, the Central Bank of India, the Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) and the UCO Bank. With the government preparing for the next phase, the goal is clear. India wants large and reliable banks that can support a rapidly growing economy and meet the needs of a country expanding faster than ever.

India's Supreme Court upholds rights of poorest but language reveals 'bias', study says India's Supreme Court prides itself on defending the rights of Dalits - historically the country's most oppressed citizens. But a new study argues that the court's own language has frequently reflected the caste hierarchies it aims to erase. About 160 million Indians are Dalits, once called "untouchables", yet many remain trapped in menial jobs and shut out of social and economic opportunity. For much of independent India's history, the country's top judges have struggled to speak about Dalits in ways that recognise dignity rather than reinforce stigma, the study found. That tension between progressive legal outcomes and regressive language - is the central paradox documented in a sweeping review of 75 years of judgments of the top court. The University of Melbourne-funded research, conducted in partnership with the Supreme Court, offers a rare internal reckoning for one of the world's most powerful judiciaries. The study examines "constitution bench" rulings - decided by five or more judges - from 1950 to 2025. These rulings are especially important because they set legal precedents, are taught in law schools, invoked in courtrooms and cited by later benches. It found that while these landmark decisions often upheld Dalit rights, their language could be "demeaning or insensitive", notes Professor Farrah Ahmed of Melbourne Law School, a co-author of the study. Some judgments liken caste oppression to disability, implying that the oppressed or disabled are inherently inferior.

Others assume - contrary to evidence - that education alone can erase caste, shifting the burden from society to individual Dalits who must study their way to equality. Still others overlook the caste barriers that block access to jobs, credit and markets, deepening poverty. Some judges likened Dalits to "ordinary horses'' in contrast to upper classes who were like "first class race horses". Others described affirmativeaction measures as "crutches" that Dalits should not depend on for too long. Some judges even described the origins of caste as "benign" - merely a system of division of labour. This, researchers say, "supported a bitterly unfair status quo that confines oppressed castes to reviled and poorly paid work". A 2020 judgement cited by the study talked about "primitive way of life [of Scheduled Tribes or other marginalised tribespeople] makes them unfit to put up with the mainstream and to be governed by the ordinary laws" - and describes them as needing a "helping hand to uplift them and to make them contribute to the national development and not to remain part of the primitive culture". Such language, the study suggests, went beyond poor phrasing to reinforce harmful stereotypes. "These comparisons - whether to animals or to people with disabilities - were offensive to both groups," says Prof Ahmed. "The real problem is not any supposed inherent limitation, but the society around them, which fails to support them to thrive."

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Why is India considering nuclear privatisation? When Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India would open its tightly controlled nuclear sector to private players, it marked one of the most consequential economic and strategic decisions of the last few decades. This was not a routine policy update or a token reform designed for headlines. It was a structural shift, one that redefines how India views power, technology, risk, and national ambition. Speaking at the inauguration of Skyroot Aerospace’s Infinity Campus in Hyderabad, Modi consciously linked the future of India’s nuclear sector to the transformation already underway in India’s space ecosystem. He invoked the story of private space startups like Skyroot to make a broader point: innovation flourishes when monopoly dies. “We’ll open up the nuclear sector to the private

sector soon,” Modi said. “This will strengthen opportunities in small modular and advanced reactors and nuclear innovations.” It was a short sentence with enormous strategic weight. Since the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, India’s nuclear power sector has existed under a rigid state monopoly. Civilian nuclear generation was treated not as an economic frontier, but as an extension of national security infrastructure. Everything flowed through the Department of Atomic Energy and a set of highly centralised public sector units. Private enterprise was kept out by law, suspicion, and ideology. This was not just about safety concerns. It was about mindset. Post-Independence India inherited a deep mistrust of private capital in “strategic” sectors, thanks to Nehruvian socialism that equated state control with national interest.

Indian junior women hockey team coach faces probe for ‘sexual misconduct’ The Union Sports Ministry has ordered an inquiry into allegations of sexual misconduct against a coach associated with the Indian junior women’s hockey team. The move comes days before the team travels to Santiago, Chile, to compete in the 2025 FIH Hockey Junior World Cup beginning on December 1. The alleged misconduct was reported during one of the three foreign tours the women’s team undertook to Argentina, Belgium and the Netherlands in June, and Australia in September. It is believed that a member of the women’s team was found to be visiting the room of the coach on a number of occasions. No formal complaint has been made so far either to the Ministry of Sports, Sports Authority of India or Hockey India (HI), the governing body for field hockey in India. But as India celebrated a hundred years of hockey some

weeks ago, the hockey fraternity was agog with the story. The issue was then brought to the notice of Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who has ordered an inquiry into this matter. “This grave matter was brought to our notice and that is why an inquiry has been ordered. As of now we do not want to jump the gun as we have to first find out the details,” a source in the Sports Ministry told The Tribune. “We will wait for the report and then act. However, this department takes such cases very seriously. If someone is guilty, we will take strict action,” he added. The name of the coach, the complainant as well as of the player in question cannot be revealed according to the law. The Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act warrants maintaining strict confidentiality regarding the identity of the complainant, the accused and witnesses.

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Record 3,258 Indians deported from US this year India on Thursday disclosed that 2025 has recorded the highest number of deportations from the United States in the last 15 years, with 3,258 Indian nationals sent back till November 28 — a number that surpasses every annual figure since 2009. Responding to a query in the Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said India was working in close coordination with the US authorities on deportation cases, ensuring each individual’s nationality was verified before removal. Deportations, he said, largely involved individuals who entered the US illegally, overstayed their visas, lacked valid documentation or had criminal convictions. According to the year-wise data released by the government, 18,822 Indians have been deported from the US since 2009, with numbers rising sharply in recent years. Of the deportees this year,

2,032 individuals (62.3%) returned on commercial flights, while 1,226 (37.6%) were brought back on US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) chartered flights — the category where shackling practices have been a subject of concern. The EAM said the Ministry of External Affairs has repeatedly raised the issue of ‘inhumane’ treatment of deportees, especially the use of shackles, with the US authorities. He added that no instance of shackling of women or minors had been reported since the deportation flight of February 5. The US, he said, had defended its policies as part of standard operating procedures dating back to 2012, arguing that restraints were used to ensure the safety of deportees and crew, citing past incidents of violence aboard such flights. Women and minors were “generally not shackled”, but the final decision rests with the flight officer.

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