August 16, 2026

NEW DELHI: A political row erupted after a video from the Independence Day programme at Congress headquarters showed Congress Parliamentary Party (CCP) chairperson Sonia Gandhi gesturing and engaged in an exchange of comments with party president Mallikarjun Kharge, drawing the attention of others, including Rahul Gandhi, who was standing at some distance.BJP MP Anurag Thakur said Sonia, Rahul and Kharge looked “uneasy” as ‘Vande mataram’s’ full version was rendered. “Congress, due to its petty and appeasement politics, has insulted the national song,” said the former minister.”Kharge Ji is said to be party chief, but Sonia Gandhi, by shouting and angrily gesticulating, has shown the world who is the real boss. This is the reality of their belief in Dalit empowerment,” said Thakur, referring to the Congress president’s caste background. Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesHowever, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh said: “As the Congress president was standing for a long time, Sonia ji was asking for a chair for him.” He added the song’s full version was played.Anurag said that since the days of Nehru, Congress has been opposed to the full version and confined its singing to the first two paras. This was reflected in what happened at the Congress headquarters, he added.Ramesh recalled that on Oct 28, 1937, a meeting of the Congress Working Committee was held in Calcutta in the presence of Gandhi, Bose, Sardar Patel, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Nehru, GB Pant and C Rajagopalachari, and at the advice of Tagore, they decided that the initial stanzas of Vande would be sung at Congress sessions. “We have been singing those lines in every session since then,” he added.Rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ at Congress sessions was restricted to the first two stanzas following objections from Muslims who said the song is idolatrous and against their religious beliefs.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

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NEW DELHI: A political row erupted after a video from the Independence Day programme at Congress headquarters showed Congress Parliamentary Party (CCP) chairperson Sonia Gandhi gesturing and engaged in an exchange of comments with party president Mallikarjun Kharge, drawing the attention of others, including Rahul Gandhi, who was standing at some distance.BJP MP Anurag Thakur said Sonia, Rahul and Kharge looked “uneasy” as ‘Vande mataram’s’ full version was rendered. “Congress, due to its petty and appeasement politics, has insulted the national song,” said the former minister.”Kharge Ji is said to be party chief, but Sonia Gandhi, by shouting and angrily gesticulating, has shown the world who is the real boss. This is the reality of their belief in Dalit empowerment,” said Thakur, referring to the Congress president’s caste background. Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesHowever, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh said: “As the Congress president was standing for a long time, Sonia ji was asking for a chair for him.” He added the song’s full version was played.Anurag said that since the days of Nehru, Congress has been opposed to the full version and confined its singing to the first two paras. This was reflected in what happened at the Congress headquarters, he added.Ramesh recalled that on Oct 28, 1937, a meeting of the Congress Working Committee was held in Calcutta in the presence of Gandhi, Bose, Sardar Patel, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Nehru, GB Pant and C Rajagopalachari, and at the advice of Tagore, they decided that the initial stanzas of Vande would be sung at Congress sessions. “We have been singing those lines in every session since then,” he added.Rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ at Congress sessions was restricted to the first two stanzas following objections from Muslims who said the song is idolatrous and against their religious beliefs.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke


Full Vande Mataram rendition triggers fresh Congress-BJP clash

NEW DELHI: A political row erupted after a video from the Independence Day programme at Congress headquarters showed Congress Parliamentary Party (CCP) chairperson Sonia Gandhi gesturing and engaged in an exchange of comments with party president Mallikarjun Kharge, drawing the attention of others, including Rahul Gandhi, who was standing at some distance.BJP MP Anurag Thakur said Sonia, Rahul and Kharge looked “uneasy” as ‘Vande mataram’s’ full version was rendered. “Congress, due to its petty and appeasement politics, has insulted the national song,” said the former minister.“Kharge Ji is said to be party chief, but Sonia Gandhi, by shouting and angrily gesticulating, has shown the world who is the real boss. This is the reality of their belief in Dalit empowerment,” said Thakur, referring to the Congress president’s caste background.

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New Delhi: The youth took centre stage in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address on Saturday as he unveiled a host of initiatives, including free online coaching and AI skilling, but also warned against “dimagi Naxals…looking for ways of violence and anarchy”, who, he said, must be “identified” and “isolated”.The PM’s 13th consecutive speech from the ramparts of Red Fort, over 75 minutes long, was marked by repeated invocations of the youth, who were the face of the most consequential protest his govt has faced since 2014, leading to education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and a slew of legislative and executive measures to reform the examination system.The PM emphasised the threat “dimagi Naxals” pose even as his govt has largely eliminated “hathiyari Naxals” (armed Naxals). Modi has often used the term “urban Naxals” to describe sympathisers of the Maoist movement. His coinage of “dimagi Naxals” appears to be a nod to the belief in BJP circles that hardcore Left groups, especially AISA, the student wing of CPI(ML), played a key role in mobilising and sustaining support for the Cockroach Janta Party-led protest.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”These dimagi Naxals are looking for ways of violence and anarchy. They are resorting to various tactics to drag society to the wrong path. We must identify these dimagi Naxals, isolate them, and steer the nation’s youth toward the mainstream effort of transforming India into a developed nation,” he said.The challenge of ‘dimagi Naxals should not be underestimated’ as they used to have presence in “corridors of power”, even as advisers in govt committees, he emphasised. BJP has accused Congress of keeping people with professed Naxal sympathies in committees that shaped policies during UPA’s tenure in 2004-2014.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

New Delhi: The youth took centre stage in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address on Saturday as he unveiled a host of initiatives, including free online coaching and AI skilling, but also warned against “dimagi Naxals…looking for ways of violence and anarchy”, who, he said, must be “identified” and “isolated”.The PM’s 13th consecutive speech from the ramparts of Red Fort, over 75 minutes long, was marked by repeated invocations of the youth, who were the face of the most consequential protest his govt has faced since 2014, leading to education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and a slew of legislative and executive measures to reform the examination system.The PM emphasised the threat “dimagi Naxals” pose even as his govt has largely eliminated “hathiyari Naxals” (armed Naxals). Modi has often used the term “urban Naxals” to describe sympathisers of the Maoist movement. His coinage of “dimagi Naxals” appears to be a nod to the belief in BJP circles that hardcore Left groups, especially AISA, the student wing of CPI(ML), played a key role in mobilising and sustaining support for the Cockroach Janta Party-led protest.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”These dimagi Naxals are looking for ways of violence and anarchy. They are resorting to various tactics to drag society to the wrong path. We must identify these dimagi Naxals, isolate them, and steer the nation’s youth toward the mainstream effort of transforming India into a developed nation,” he said.The challenge of ‘dimagi Naxals should not be underestimated’ as they used to have presence in “corridors of power”, even as advisers in govt committees, he emphasised. BJP has accused Congress of keeping people with professed Naxal sympathies in committees that shaped policies during UPA’s tenure in 2004-2014.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

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Pezeshkian said the longstanding ties between the two countries could help build a stronger future. NEW DELHI: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday extended greetings to India on its 80th Independence Day, highlighting the countries’ deep historical and cultural ties and expressing Tehran’s readiness to further strengthen bilateral relations.In a message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pezeshkian said the longstanding ties between the two countries could help build a stronger future for their relationship.”Undoubtedly, the deep historical, cultural, civilizational, and people-to-people ties between the two nations are a valuable asset for drawing brighter horizons in bilateral relations based on common interests,” the Iranian President said, according to his official website.Pezeshkian also stressed Iran’s willingness to expand cooperation with India and make greater use of the existing potential between the two countries.”The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to take more effective steps to strengthen relations between the two countries and secure the common interests of the two nations, in light of mutual trust and respect and by utilising the extensive existing capacities,” he said.According to the President’s website, Pezeshkian also prayed for India’s “proud, progress, prosperity, and ever-increasing happiness” and for the two countries’ longstanding ties to be further strengthened.Leaders across world greet IndiaJoin conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesPezeshkian was among several world leaders who extended greetings to India as the country marked 80 years of independence, ANI reported.Russian President Vladimir Putin, in messages to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hailed India’s progress and growing global standing.”Your country is making remarkable progress in the economic, social, scientific and technological spheres, and rightfully commands considerable authority in the international arena,” Putin said.Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also congratulated India, recalling the difficult journey towards independence and describing it as a new beginning filled with hope.French President Emmanuel Macron also extended his warm wishes to the people of India on the occasion, while Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening its partnership and enduring friendship with India.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

Pezeshkian said the longstanding ties between the two countries could help build a stronger future. NEW DELHI: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday extended greetings to India on its 80th Independence Day, highlighting the countries’ deep historical and cultural ties and expressing Tehran’s readiness to further strengthen bilateral relations.In a message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pezeshkian said the longstanding ties between the two countries could help build a stronger future for their relationship.”Undoubtedly, the deep historical, cultural, civilizational, and people-to-people ties between the two nations are a valuable asset for drawing brighter horizons in bilateral relations based on common interests,” the Iranian President said, according to his official website.Pezeshkian also stressed Iran’s willingness to expand cooperation with India and make greater use of the existing potential between the two countries.”The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to take more effective steps to strengthen relations between the two countries and secure the common interests of the two nations, in light of mutual trust and respect and by utilising the extensive existing capacities,” he said.According to the President’s website, Pezeshkian also prayed for India’s “proud, progress, prosperity, and ever-increasing happiness” and for the two countries’ longstanding ties to be further strengthened.Leaders across world greet IndiaJoin conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesPezeshkian was among several world leaders who extended greetings to India as the country marked 80 years of independence, ANI reported.Russian President Vladimir Putin, in messages to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hailed India’s progress and growing global standing.”Your country is making remarkable progress in the economic, social, scientific and technological spheres, and rightfully commands considerable authority in the international arena,” Putin said.Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also congratulated India, recalling the difficult journey towards independence and describing it as a new beginning filled with hope.French President Emmanuel Macron also extended his warm wishes to the people of India on the occasion, while Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening its partnership and enduring friendship with India.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

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NEW DELHI: A parliamentary panel has taken note of a curious case involving emergency alert buttons in buses. While the switches cost just Rs 15-20 each, they have largely remained unused because there are no dedicated centres to respond to alerts. Bus operators told the panel they are still required to pay Rs 2,500 to Rs 25,000 per vehicle to have the switches tested during mandatory fitness tests.The latest report of the parliamentary standing committee on transport, tourism and culture, headed by JDU’s Sanjay Jha, noted that the buttons were made mandatory after the 2012 Nirbhaya case as a safety measure for women passengers.The report said the road transport ministry informed the panel that in several states, the system had been connected to emergency response number 112. It also said there were many instances of false alarms, prompting some states to “disengage” them.”The ministry wishes the system restored, while am-ong operators there is a feeling that it should be dispensed with,” the report said. A committee member observed if the system was not effective, it was not fair to charge so much for it. One member asked why CCTV could not be installed. The ministry said cameras were being made mandatory in new buses.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe committee recommended that the programme to install emergency buttons, call facilities and vehicle location tracking devices in public transport vehicles be pursued with states beyond the 16 that have made progress in implementing it.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

NEW DELHI: A parliamentary panel has taken note of a curious case involving emergency alert buttons in buses. While the switches cost just Rs 15-20 each, they have largely remained unused because there are no dedicated centres to respond to alerts. Bus operators told the panel they are still required to pay Rs 2,500 to Rs 25,000 per vehicle to have the switches tested during mandatory fitness tests.The latest report of the parliamentary standing committee on transport, tourism and culture, headed by JDU’s Sanjay Jha, noted that the buttons were made mandatory after the 2012 Nirbhaya case as a safety measure for women passengers.The report said the road transport ministry informed the panel that in several states, the system had been connected to emergency response number 112. It also said there were many instances of false alarms, prompting some states to “disengage” them.”The ministry wishes the system restored, while am-ong operators there is a feeling that it should be dispensed with,” the report said. A committee member observed if the system was not effective, it was not fair to charge so much for it. One member asked why CCTV could not be installed. The ministry said cameras were being made mandatory in new buses.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe committee recommended that the programme to install emergency buttons, call facilities and vehicle location tracking devices in public transport vehicles be pursued with states beyond the 16 that have made progress in implementing it.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

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NEW DELHI: BCI’s controversial decision to bar 2026 law graduates from Hyderabad’s NALSAR University of Law from being registered as advocate, which it withdrew within hours, brought into focus the regulator’s working which has been headed by senior advocate and BJP MP Manan Kumar Mishra for 14 years.A statutory body established under Advocates Act, 1961, BCI is mandated to regulate legal profession and legal education. It lays down standards of professional conduct for advocates, exercises disciplinary jurisdiction, and recognises universities whose law degrees qualify a person for enrolment. Section 7(1)(g) of the Act also gives it general supervision and control over state bar councils.But no provision of the Act gives it the power to enrol a person as an advocate which is to be done by a state bar council to admit persons as advocates on its roll. Clearly, the regulator ventured into the area beyond its domain by taking punitive measures against students, and upset SC which observed that BCI had no business to intervene in the matter.The controversy has put the spotlight on BCI’s functioning on whether it has over the years been able to discharge its statutory duty to maintain the standard of legal profession and legal education. Going by a statement of Mishra himself, BCI has failed in its duty by a massive margin.An outspoken man who contested polls as nominees of BSP and Congress before drifting into BJP , has said on more than one occasion that 35-40% of advocates have fake degrees, and are practicing in the courts on the basis of fabricated degree certificates. The statement, while believed to be true by many, is an indictment of regulator and clear evidence that guard rails against serious malpractice have not been working.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesAnother failure of BCI is in the field of legal education as it failed to maintain standard in view of proliferation of law colleges; some of them are virtually selling law degrees with students exempted from attending classes. It has regularly faced SC’s ire for not infusing professionalism into the profession and not taking action against erring lawyers who keep resorting to strikes.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

NEW DELHI: BCI’s controversial decision to bar 2026 law graduates from Hyderabad’s NALSAR University of Law from being registered as advocate, which it withdrew within hours, brought into focus the regulator’s working which has been headed by senior advocate and BJP MP Manan Kumar Mishra for 14 years.A statutory body established under Advocates Act, 1961, BCI is mandated to regulate legal profession and legal education. It lays down standards of professional conduct for advocates, exercises disciplinary jurisdiction, and recognises universities whose law degrees qualify a person for enrolment. Section 7(1)(g) of the Act also gives it general supervision and control over state bar councils.But no provision of the Act gives it the power to enrol a person as an advocate which is to be done by a state bar council to admit persons as advocates on its roll. Clearly, the regulator ventured into the area beyond its domain by taking punitive measures against students, and upset SC which observed that BCI had no business to intervene in the matter.The controversy has put the spotlight on BCI’s functioning on whether it has over the years been able to discharge its statutory duty to maintain the standard of legal profession and legal education. Going by a statement of Mishra himself, BCI has failed in its duty by a massive margin.An outspoken man who contested polls as nominees of BSP and Congress before drifting into BJP , has said on more than one occasion that 35-40% of advocates have fake degrees, and are practicing in the courts on the basis of fabricated degree certificates. The statement, while believed to be true by many, is an indictment of regulator and clear evidence that guard rails against serious malpractice have not been working.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesAnother failure of BCI is in the field of legal education as it failed to maintain standard in view of proliferation of law colleges; some of them are virtually selling law degrees with students exempted from attending classes. It has regularly faced SC’s ire for not infusing professionalism into the profession and not taking action against erring lawyers who keep resorting to strikes.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosActivist Devendra Mahto Stopped From Tiranga March As Jharkhand Student Protest Escalates On I-Day‘Came From The Top’: Mahua Moitra Alleges Late-Night Pressure, Seeks Speaker Om Birla’s InterventionDid Congress Leaders Signal Stop? Viral Vande Mataram Video Sparks Political Firestorm In New DelhiIndia Signs ₹1,577 Crore Drone Deals As Army Powers Up Precision Strikes And Unmanned WarfareAjit Doval Breaks Silence On Operation Sindoor, Reveals PM Modi’s Immediate Response After PahalgamPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?123PhotostoriesYour walk changes after 60, but is it really ‘normal ageing’? What a shuffle, sway or slower step could be telling you7 Foods to eat in the morning for better digestion and easier bowel movementsWant a better relationship with your parents? 8 simple tips every teenager should try10 baby girl names inspired by ancient flowersOptical illusion personality test: What you see first reveals your most irritating personality traitForget Medu Vada: 7 South Indian snacks that are worth a try with filter coffeeWhat happens when you rub lemon on dishes and cutlery? The real chemistry behind this kitchen hackMonsoon food poisoning: 7 everyday foods that can look safe but turn risky because of water, humidity and poor storageAbhishek Malhan’s luxurious mansion: A private swimming pool, home theatre, private lifts and moreTrisha Krishnan keeps it classic in a mustard saree as she attends CM Vijay’s first Independence Day ceremony123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

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