VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Marco Rubio revokes green cards of 2 relatives of slain Iranian commander, hands them to ICE for deportation Jammu & Kashmir opens higher education for private sector | India News Hrithik Roshan defends Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana amid ‘bad VFX’ debate: ‘Maybe it’s just a style you didn’t expect?’ Horoscope Today: Daily astrological predictions for April 5, 2026 Canadian billionaire Kevin O’Leary says a good thing about AI layoffs is: Everybody said you have to be an engineer, but now you can be … ‘I was obligated to do it’: Illegal immigrant accused of slitting wife’s throat one month after marriage in Dallas ANI file photo SRINAGAR: MLAs of governing National Conference and Congress raised the Ganderbal encounter in J&K Assembly on Saturday, demanding that the body of the local man killed in the operation be handed over to his family for a “dignified burial”.LG Manoj Sinha had on Friday ordered a magisterial inquiry into the encounter after the family of the slain person, Rashid Ahmad Mughal, disputed the Army’s statement related to the encounter, which said an unidentified terrorist had been killed in the operation in the Arahama area on the night of March 31. Rashid’s brother Ajaz Ahmad Mughal termed it a fake encounter and lodged a police complaint seeking a probe.Raising the issue, NC member and retired high court judge Hasnain Masoodi said: “The right to a decent burial is a constitutionally recognised right. Under Article 21, the family has the right to perform the last rites. Even as the inquiry proceeds, the body should be returned to the family.”Congress legislator from Bandipora, Nizamuddin Bhat, sought a judicial inquiry, saying an administrative probe was not sufficient. “The first right of the victim is a decent burial and it should be respected,” he said.Another NC legislator, Mubarak Gul, said the Assembly should condemn the incident. “In the first place, this should not have happened. Now that it has, the House should express concern,” he said. Mir Saifullah, NC legislator from Kupwara, demanded a govt statement on the incident.Since 2019, authorities have buried terrorists killed in encounters in designated graveyards in north Kashmir, including Kupwara and Uri, instead of returning the bodies to families, citing concerns over large funeral gatherings.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely‘Three Allegations, Zero Truth’: Raghav Chadha Counters AAP After Shock Deputy Leader Snub‘Came Through Solidly’: S Jaishankar Flags Global Risks, Says India Emerged Resilient Amid CrisisIran War, LPG Crisis Row Expose Congress Rift As Leaders Counter Rahul Gandhi’s Stand OpenlyIndia Navigates Hormuz Crisis With New Route As UN Resolution On Shipping Hits Major Roadblock123Photostories7 pricey ingredients you can easily make at homeLord Ganesha mantras that you should chant everyday’Friends’, ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘The Office’ and more: Iconic TV quotes and catchphrases that became a part of everyday lifeFive funniest sitcom characters ever: George Costanza, Michael Scott and moreEarly cancer symptoms that often feel harmless: Warning signs people ignore and when to see a doctorTop 5 areas in Kochi for residential living and property investment11 iconic Indian dishes that have a cult following across the country7 Paulo Coelho quotes that will change the way you think about love6 simple hacks to reduce your induction cooking billBuying your first diamond? 5 golden rules you absolutely need to know123Hot PicksPakistan Petrol CrisisRuturaj GaikwadKick StreamerShashi TharoorStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingAllahabad High CourtOrissa High CourtTamil nadu pollsBengal PollsAnil RathodToll PaymentRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news Apr 04, 2026, 23:46 IST Shubman Gill injury update: Rashid Khan sheds light on GT skipper comeback after RR loss | Cricket News ‘This has happened before’: How science explains Déjà Vu and the eerie feeling of life on replay | Bagram, Benghazi, and blame: Trump meets reality in Iran botch-up Texas is now ‘mini‑India’: How a deep-red state became a hotspot for anti-India hate in US 154.2 kmph! Ashok Sharma fires the fastest delivery of IPL 2026 University of Washington professor fired from director role after sending email criticising Iran war Ranbir Kapoor says he initially rejected Ramayana ‘out of fear’: ‘I’m not fit enough to play Lord Ram’ | Hindi Movie News Vitamin Deficiency: Vitamin B12, D, Iron: Why deficiencies are rising and what you should do daily Trump’s Xi moment? A military purge unfolds in the US NEW DELHI: The 2026 Assam Assembly elections are shaping up as a defining political contest, a clash of experience and emerging leadership, legacy and new energy. At the centre of this battle are two high-profile constituencies, Jorhat, where Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi has turned the race into a prestige fight, and Jalukbari, the long-standing stronghold of chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.The broader contest will see the ruling BJP-led NDA, comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party, Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People’s Front, seeking a third consecutive term in the 126-member Assembly. The Indian National Congress, meanwhile, is aiming to return to power after a decade in the Opposition.Jalukbari: Sarma’s fortress faces fresh challengeJalukbari in Kamrup district remains one of the most closely watched seats, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma seeking re-election from a constituency he has dominated for nearly 25 years. Representing the seat since 2001 after defeating AGP leader Bhrigu Kumar Phukan, Sarma has built a formidable political base.In 2026, he faces Congress candidate Bidisha Neog and independent contender Dipika Das. Despite the challenge, Sarma enters the contest with a strong track record and overwhelming past margins (Photo credit: ANI)In the 2021 Assembly elections, Sarma secured a landslide victory with 1,30,762 votes, accounting for 78.4% of the vote share. He defeated Congress candidate Romen Chandra Borthakur, who received 28,851 votes (17.3%), while independent candidates trailed far behind. The victory margin stood at a massive 1,01,911 votes.The constituency, reshaped after the 2023 delimitation, now has 2,10,624 voters spread across 247 polling stations. With a mix of urban and semi-urban populations, Jalukbari remains politically significant and continues to reflect Sarma’s dominance.Sarma, 57, holds a doctorate and has declared assets of over Rs 35 lakh. His main challenger, Bidisha Neog, 34, is a graduate with assets of around Rs 34.6 lakh, while independent candidate Dipika Das, 44, a postgraduate, has declared assets worth Rs 5.2 lakh.Jorhat: Gogoi turns ‘tea capital’ into battlegroundIf Jalukbari represents continuity, Jorhat symbolises disruption. Once a colonial administrative hub and now widely known as Assam’s “tea capital”, the constituency has emerged as the focal point of the state’s political battle.Gaurav Gogoi’s decision to contest here has transformed Jorhat into a high-stakes arena. The son of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and the sitting Lok Sabha MP from Jorhat, Gogoi’s entry has injected fresh momentum into the Congress campaign and elevated the contest beyond a routine electoral fight.He faces BJP’s sitting MLA Hitendra Nath Goswami, who has held the seat since 2016 and continues to command strong grassroots support. Goswami’s established network makes him a formidable opponent, but Gogoi’s presence has turned the contest into a closely fought battle with no clear frontrunner. Priyanka Gandhi in Guwahati (PTI)Jorhat’s electoral dynamics are shaped by its unique social composition. Tea garden communities play a crucial role, alongside a significant Ahom Hindu population and Assamese-speaking voters. This mix makes the constituency politically sensitive and decisive in Upper Assam.Under the BJP government, Jorhat has seen visible infrastructure improvements, including new flyovers and upgrades in healthcare facilities. However, several persistent issues continue to influence voter sentiment.The recent delimitation exercise has further altered the electoral landscape, with changes in voter composition across urban and rural areas. While urban pockets are expected to witness a tight contest, rural areas may lean towards Goswami due to his long-standing presence. At the same time, younger voters could emerge as a decisive factor, with many seen as potential supporters of Gogoi.In the 2021 Assembly elections, out of 1,76,834 electors, Goswami secured 68,321 votes, defeating Congress candidate Rana Goswami by a margin of 6,488 votes.In 2016, the margin was wider, with Goswami winning by 13,638 votes, securing 69,209 votes against Rana Goswami’s 55,571. These results underline the constituency’s competitive nature and suggest another close contest in 2026.At the state level, the BJP-led NDA enters the election with a position of strength. In 2021, the BJP secured 60 seats with a 33.21% vote share, while the Congress won 29 seats with 29.67% of the votes.The NDA is banking on governance, development and leadership continuity to secure a third straight term. The Congress, on the other hand, is attempting to capitalise on anti-incumbency and local issues, with leaders like Gogoi spearheading its campaign.With high stakes for both the NDA and the Congress, the outcome will not only determine the next government but also shape the future trajectory of politics in the state.Polling for all 126 constituencies will be held in a single phase on April 9, with counting scheduled for May 4.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 MediaVideosBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely‘Three Allegations, Zero Truth’: Raghav Chadha Counters AAP After Shock Deputy Leader Snub‘Came Through Solidly’: S Jaishankar Flags Global Risks, Says India Emerged Resilient Amid CrisisIran War, LPG Crisis Row Expose Congress Rift As Leaders Counter Rahul Gandhi’s Stand OpenlyIndia Navigates Hormuz Crisis With New Route As UN Resolution On Shipping Hits Major Roadblock123Photostories7 pricey ingredients you can easily make at homeLord Ganesha mantras that you should chant everyday’Friends’, ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘The Office’ and more: Iconic TV quotes and catchphrases that became a part of everyday lifeFive funniest sitcom characters ever: George Costanza, Michael Scott and moreEarly cancer symptoms that often feel harmless: Warning signs people ignore and when to see a doctorTop 5 areas in Kochi for residential living and property investment11 iconic Indian dishes that have a cult following across the country7 Paulo Coelho quotes that will change the way you think about love6 simple hacks to reduce your induction cooking billBuying your first diamond? 5 golden rules you absolutely need to know123Hot PicksPakistan Petrol CrisisRuturaj GaikwadKick StreamerShashi TharoorStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingAllahabad High CourtOrissa High CourtTamil nadu pollsBengal PollsAnil RathodToll PaymentRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news Piyush Mishra reveals why wife Priya refused to leave him despite infidelity: ‘It took me 10–15 years to realise she is my wife’ | Hindi Movie News Middle East conflict may hit India’s exports beyond region if prolonged, says government They were received by Union minister Piyush Goyal and TN BJP president Nainar Nagenthran at Chennai airport. Photo by R Ramesh Shankar CHENNAI: A total of 348 Indian citizens from different parts of Tamil Nadu and its neighbouring states, stranded in Iran for more than a month since a war broke out in West Asia, landed in Chennai in a special flight arranged from Armenia by the Indian embassy officials.Of the 348 passengers, 327 were Tamils, five were from Puducherry, while 10 were from Kerala. Most of the Tamils were natives of Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari and Nagapattinam districts and were working as fishermen in Iran. They were received by Union minister Piyush Goyal and TN BJP president Nainar Nagenthran and were sent to their respective towns in special buses.The returnees said they were unsure of their destiny till the very moment they landed in Tamil Nadu.Peter Blacian, 46, of Kanyakumari, said they hardly slept in the last month due to continuous explosions at closer proximity every single day. “It is very hard to explain how we felt. We had very little hope,” he said. Peter Blacian, along with 22 others as a team, was employees of Kish Island in Bandar Abbas and their primary job was to venture into the sea for fishing.Though the employers supported them with food after the onset of the war-like situation in Iran, they had to pay from their own pocket to leave their workplace for a dangerous 18-hour journey by bus to Qom city, where the Indian embassy officials received them.”From there, the embassy took care of us well with proper food and accommodation and further travel to Armenia via Julfar,” he said. Aneesh Raja, 34, another Kanyakumari native, said he had gone to Iran just three months ago and never expected that he would have to return home in such a crisis. “We went all the way to work as fishermen in Iran for better income, but now future looks bleak,” he said.You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Gold Rate Today in Chennai | Silver Rate Today in ChennaiAbout the AuthorVenkadesan SVenkadesan S is a Special Correspondent who primarily covers electricity, aviation, the information commission, central investigation agencies, and metro rail.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely‘Three Allegations, Zero Truth’: Raghav Chadha Counters AAP After Shock Deputy Leader Snub‘Came Through Solidly’: S Jaishankar Flags Global Risks, Says India Emerged Resilient Amid CrisisIran War, LPG Crisis Row Expose Congress Rift As Leaders Counter Rahul Gandhi’s Stand OpenlyIndia Navigates Hormuz Crisis With New Route As UN Resolution On Shipping Hits Major Roadblock123Photostories7 pricey ingredients you can easily make at homeLord Ganesha mantras that you should chant everyday’Friends’, ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘The Office’ and more: Iconic TV quotes and catchphrases that became a part of everyday lifeFive funniest sitcom characters ever: George Costanza, Michael Scott and moreEarly cancer symptoms that often feel harmless: Warning signs people ignore and when to see a doctorTop 5 areas in Kochi for residential living and property investment11 iconic Indian dishes that have a cult following across the country7 Paulo Coelho quotes that will change the way you think about love6 simple hacks to reduce your induction cooking billBuying your first diamond? 5 golden rules you absolutely need to know123Hot PicksPakistan Petrol CrisisRuturaj GaikwadKick StreamerShashi TharoorStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingAllahabad High CourtOrissa High CourtTamil nadu pollsBengal PollsAnil RathodToll PaymentRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news Erling Haaland’s hat-trick eliminates Liverpool, sends Manchester City to FA Cup semis | Football News India Pharmaceutical Exports: India’s pharma exports rise 5.6% to $28.29 billion till Feb in FY26; sector seen doubling to $130 billion by 2030 Happy Easter Sunday 2026: Top 50 Wishes, Messages and Quotes to share with your family and friends NEW DELHI: Ahead of the Tamil Nadu assembly elections, actor Vijay Thalapathy has positioned himself as an alternative for the people in a state where politics, for a very long time, has revolved around the DMK and the AIADMK.With its ideological differences with the NDA and political tussle with the DMK, TVK has emerged as a third option for Tamil voters by fielding candidates on all 234 seats.So, will the experiment live up to Vijay’s expectations? Well, there is a fighting chance.Why Vijay stands a chance in Tamil Nadu pollsOver the years, the contest has essentially been between fronts led by DMK and AIADMK. Since 1967, these two parties have alternated regimes, keeping other parties in their respective alliances.However, the upcoming elections seem to be turning into a trifecta, as a considerable chunk of voters has chosen not to align with either of the Dravidian parties over the years.In the 2016 assembly polls, AIADMK won 134 seats and secured over 40 per cent of the vote. Meanwhile, DMK won 89 seats with a 32.1 per cent vote share. This indicated that nearly 20 per cent of the votes were distributed among other parties, including the BJP and the Left parties.A similar pattern emerged in the 2021 election as well. The AIADMK-BJP alliance secured 39.71 per cent of the vote, while the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance garnered around 45 per cent.In both elections, roughly one-fifth of the electorate voted for parties outside the two major alliances. These unaligned votes—roughly translating to 15–20 per cent—remain crucial for the emergence of a third front.However, this does not mean that this huge chunk of votes will necessarily land in favour of TVK.Will TVK succeed?As part of this strategy, Vijay, in his party’s manifesto, announced a slew of populist welfare promises for women.The key assurances include Rs 2,500 per month cash assistance to women heads of families up to 60 years of age, as opposed to the present Rs 1,000 provided to eligible women heads of families who meet certain socio-economic criteria under the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai (KMUT) scheme.Vijay said women employed with the state and union governments will not be eligible for the assistance.Other schemes include six LPG cylinders free of cost under the ‘Annapoorani Super Six Scheme’, free bus rides for women in all government buses under the ‘Vetri Payanam Scheme’, Rs 15,000 per year as assistance to the mother or guardian of children to ensure zero dropouts in schools under the ‘Kamarajar Kalvi Uruthi Scheme’, eight grams of gold along with a silk saree for women getting married under the ‘Annan Seer Scheme’, and a gold ring along with a baby welcome kit for every newborn.Meanwhile, Vijay and his party have also reached out to the Christian minority vote. He also introduced himself as Joseph Vijay and gave a clear call to minority voters.Moreover, TVK has been successful in pulling crowds. In October 2024, TVK drew over 8 lakh people during its first state conference in Vikravandi. Thousands of people attend Vijay’s rallies to hear him speak or catch a glimpse of him.The superstar has supporters across every class, gender, and age group in different regions of Tamil Nadu. Unlike many film stars, Vijay’s supporters are organised and politically active. In the 2021 local body polls, his “fan club” candidates won 115 of the 169 seats they contested.His fan clubs have also taken on the role of foot soldiers on social media and regularly conduct blood donation camps, free medical check-ups, education support drives, and disaster relief work.“TVK’s social media army is the biggest in India — not just our claim, but what others are saying after witnessing it. You are no longer just fans on social media; you are TVK’s virtual warriors,” he had said.Yet, Tamil Nadu’s electoral history suggests that crowd mobilisation does not automatically translate into seat conversion.Booth-level organisation, caste arithmetic, and alliance mathematics continue to play a decisive role — factors that even popular actors have struggled to master in their first electoral outings.Vijay stardom: A boon or a baneFilm stars in Tamil Nadu often enjoy near-divine status, with fans performing rituals like pouring milk over massive cut-outs ahead of film releases. Some even have temples dedicated to them across the state.Yet, this immense popularity has not always translated into electoral success.Kamal Haasan entered politics in February 2018 with the launch of Makkal Needhi Maiam, projecting it as a centrist alternative to both DMK and AIADMK. However, the party failed to win any seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. In the 2021 Tamil Nadu assembly polls, Haasan contested from Coimbatore South but lost, while the party managed just over 2.6 per cent of the total vote share.Rajinikanth, too, had sparked massive excitement by announcing plans to launch a political party and contest all 234 assembly seats. But he later reversed his decision, citing health concerns, and chose not to enter active politics.Once, leader of opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami remarked that “Vijay may be a good actor but not a leader.”Similarly, the TVK founder has also been targeted over the September 27, 2025, tragedy that left 41 persons dead and many injured.CBI is also grilling Vijay over the stampede, taking up a significant chunk of his time that could otherwise have been used for pre-poll strategy or campaigning.Additionally, critics argue that Vijay lacks experience of politics. Its heavy dependence on Vijay’s personal charisma raises questions about depth and scalability.The absence of governance experience and a second line of leadership adds to scepticism among voters, particularly in rural areas. Candidate selection, largely reliant on newcomers, may also affect electoral credibility. Central probing agency has questioned the TVK chief several times.Politically, the impact of the probe remains ambiguous. While rival parties have sought to frame the stampede as evidence of administrative inexperience, sections of Vijay’s support base view the investigation as pressure politics — a narrative that could either erode confidence or consolidate sympathy, depending on how the case unfolds closer to polling.How DMK and AIADMK plan to counter TVKTo counter the vote drain, both fronts have also expanded their alliances by incorporating more parties. DMK has included parties like DMDK, while the NDA has TTV Dinakaran’s AMMK in its fold.Meanwhile, leaders like Seeman and the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) are also vying to break the ceiling of relevance.NTK’s support has largely remained a vote share without securing seats. In the 2021 elections, NTK got a 6.6% vote share, more than the BJP and the Congress. The central question this time is whether that support can finally translate into seats.Voting for the 234 seats of the Tamil Nadu assembly will be held on April 23, and counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.About the AuthorRohitashwa RanjanRohitashwa Ranjan is a digital journalist with The Times of India, where he decodes Indian politics as a carefully staged production with scripts, subtext and everything behind. His work tracks elections, party dynamics and the things that often are buried beneath the headlines. When not parsing vote shares or alliances, he is usually reading between the lines, where the real story tends to reside.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely‘Three Allegations, Zero Truth’: Raghav Chadha Counters AAP After Shock Deputy Leader Snub‘Came Through Solidly’: S Jaishankar Flags Global Risks, Says India Emerged Resilient Amid CrisisIran War, LPG Crisis Row Expose Congress Rift As Leaders Counter Rahul Gandhi’s Stand OpenlyIndia Navigates Hormuz Crisis With New Route As UN Resolution On Shipping Hits Major RoadblockAfter Op Sindoor Row, India Reopens Talks With Azerbaijan, Balancing Disputes And Cooperation123PhotostoriesLord Ganesha mantras that you should chant everyday’Friends’, ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘The Office’ and more: Iconic TV quotes and catchphrases that became a part of everyday lifeFive funniest sitcom characters ever: George Costanza, Michael Scott and moreEarly cancer symptoms that often feel harmless: Warning signs people ignore and when to see a doctorTop 5 areas in Kochi for residential living and property investment11 iconic Indian dishes that have a cult following across the country7 Paulo Coelho quotes that will change the way you think about love6 simple hacks to reduce your induction cooking billBuying your first diamond? 5 golden rules you absolutely need to knowThese spiritual wallpapers for your phone that can change your destiny123Hot PicksPakistan Petrol CrisisRuturaj GaikwadKick StreamerShashi TharoorStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingAllahabad High CourtOrissa High CourtTamil nadu pollsBengal PollsAnil RathodToll PaymentRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news Ramayana: Sunil Lahri says Ranbir Kapoor lacks Arun Govil’s ‘patience, calm, innocence’: ‘He suits more for Laxman or Bharat’ | Hindi Movie News 154.2 kmph! Ashok Sharma fires the fastest bowl of IPL 2026 Singapore’s ageing population is turning to parkour and it’s working perfectly for fitness ‘Dhurandhar The Revenge’: Manav Gohil responds to propaganda allegations; says, ‘Art and politics shouldn’t be merged’ Rajinikanth breaks silence on ‘Jailer 2’ and ‘KHxRK’ while expertly sidestepping Tamil Nadu election questions | Tamil Movie News 3,126 petitions to employ H‑1B workers: Outrage as Oracle fires thousands while hiring foreign workers Raghav Chadha vs AAP: Rift between ‘ghatak’ MP and Kejriwal’s ‘soldiers’ turns ugly — the showdown explained | India News AIIMS NORCET 10 exam city slip released, admit card on April 8 for April 11 test; download here ‘Many actresses wanted to be cast opposite Ranveer’: Casting director Mukesh Chhabra explains why Sara Arjun got ‘Dhurandhar’ role Lord Ganesha mantras that you should chant everyday Iran parliament planning to target Bab el Mandeb? Why this Red Sea–Gulf of Aden strait matters Is Donald Trump’s triumphal tone on Iran facing a reality check? ‘Hard work is paying off’: Sameer Rizvi after stellar 90 runs knock vs Mumbai Indians | Cricket News MHT CET 2026 city intimation slip released at cetcell.mahacet.org: Direct link to download here Abhishek Bachchan admits feeling ‘terrified’ on red carpet with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: ‘I’m like a block of wood, very awkward’ Meet Karen Jenner: The woman who has removed over 31,000 pounds of ocean waste along Canada’s wild coastline Who is Vishvanath Suresh? Meet 21-year-old Indian boxer who knocked out World No. 1 Sanzhar Tashkenbay | Boxing News NEW DLEHI: Amid the ongoing conflict, Iran’s ambassador to India, Dr Mohammad Fathali, spoke to TOI on war narratives, the situation at the Strait of Hormuz, and clarified Iran’s maritime approach during wartime. He emphasised that the conflict is an “illegal war” imposed on Iran. Reflecting on his diplomatic tenure, he highlighted public solidarity and deepening bilateral relations, calling India a “true friend in hard times.” Excerpts: Q: Many Indians sent aid to Iran. Tehran thanked India but then deleted some of the tweets. What happened?A: We have received a lot of contributions from all over India—from north to south and east to west. Donations are still coming in. We are truly grateful for the kindness of the Indian people. I want to sincerely thank the Indian govt and people for their valuable support and solidarity. Contrary to what was said in the media, there was no special reason for deleting the tweets. Since these contributions came from people of all religions, ethnicities, and every part of the country, we felt it was necessary to show our appreciation to all the people of India together.Q: The war has also been a battle of narratives. Has the global perception shifted in anyone’s favour?A: Beyond all the rhetoric and contradictory statements, what happened on Feb 28th was an act of aggression and an illegal war imposed on the Iranian nation.We were in the middle of negotiations with the US. This wasn’t the first time the United States walked away from the table while we were negotiating and attacked. For what reason? They claimed there was an ‘immediate threat’ from Iran, but then the Pentagon quickly denied it, saying there was no such threat. They talked about Iran’s nuclear program and nuclear weapons—something that has never existed. Now, everyone knows this is a war based on illusions. It is an illegal war imposed not only on Iran but also on the entire region, with consequences for the whole international community.Our enemies have not achieved any of their goals so far. They were looking for ‘regime change’ in Iran. However, we are a govt that emerged from a popular revolution, and our people have shown their support by taking to the streets since the very first day of the war. We are defending ourselves, and we will spare no effort in this path.Q: The administration in Iran recently praised India for its ‘balanced’ and ‘neutral’ stance. Is there anything Iran expects from New Delhi? A: We appreciate the measures taken by the Indian govt. This approach reflects India’s profound understanding of regional complexities and the significance of maintaining bilateral relations. At the same time, we expect all independent and freedom-loving nations to stand against the violation of international law and aggression. All govts must condemn attacks on civilian infrastructures—such as hospitals, schools, universities, and economic centers—and, most importantly, the killing of innocent civilians, including children.Q: There were inputs of Iran helping Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz during heightened tensions. Could you clarify if any specific mechanisms or coordination channels are currently in place to ensure their safe passage? A: Iran has always emphasized the importance of safety and security for shipping in international routes. However, it is important to note that the Strait of Hormuz is not part of international waters; it is within the territorial and internal waters of Iran and Oman. Therefore, protecting the interests of these two countries is the priority in managing the strait, and decisions regarding transit conditions belong to Tehran and Muscat. The strait is only closed to countries at war with Iran. It is natural that during wartime, we will not allow our enemies to pass through our internal waters. The fact that other ships are not traveling is due to the insecurity in the region and extremely high insurance costs. Nevertheless, we have implemented special measures to ensure the safe passage of ships from friendly nations, including India.Q: Is this assistance to Indian vessels being handled on a case-by-case operational basis? What’s the approach?A: Our approach is to guarantee the safe passage of vessels from friendly nations, including India. This policy is based on recognized international maritime laws and regulations, as well as the principles of navigation safety. In practice, this can be managed on a case-by-case and operational basis to ensure necessary coordination according to each vessel’s specific conditions and the real-time situation in the region. We have emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is closed only to those countries that have been directly or indirectly involved in the aggression against our country.Q: What message would Iran like to convey to the international shipping community on transit through the Strait of Hormuz going forward?A: The Islamic Republic of Iran has always respected the principles of freedom of navigation and maritime safety; however, the effective realization of these principles in the Strait of Hormuz is not possible without due respect for the sovereignty and sovereign rights of Iran as the coastal state. We emphasize that responsibility for any disruption, insecurity, or heightened risk in this vital waterway and its surrounding areas lies directly with the regimes of the United States and Israel. By initiating an unlawful and criminal war against our country, they have placed regional stability and the safety of international shipping under an unprecedented threat, in clear contradiction to the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter.In light of the above, the lawful and legitimate measures undertaken by Iran have been adopted within the framework of established principles of international law, based on the principles of necessity and proportionality. These measures have been implemented to repel aggression and neutralize the sources of threats, and will continue, in accordance with legal standards, until these objectives are fully achieved and the sources of threat and aggression are eliminated.Any passage through the Strait of Hormuz must be conducted in compliance with the measures adopted by Iran and in coordination with the relevant Iranian authorities.Q: How has your stint as ambassador in India been? What are your biggest takeaways?A: During my time in India, I have seen positive developments in the relations between our two countries. The deep historical and cultural ties have always been a strength in our interactions, and these bonds have grown even stronger over time. The sympathy and solidarity of the Indian people with the people of Iran during these difficult times are truly appreciated and will never be forgotten. We believe that true friends are known in hard times, and our Indian friends have shown their true friendship. We are in close contact with the Indian govt, and during my stay, I have witnessed positive efforts from both sides in various fields.About the AuthorIsmat AraAt The Times of India, Ismat Ara covers politics, people, and societies, with a focus on accountability, justice, and lived experience. Shaped by years of rigorous reporting across cities, small towns, and remote villages, she is drawn to the human stories tucked beneath policy and paperwork.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely‘Three Allegations, Zero Truth’: Raghav Chadha Counters AAP After Shock Deputy Leader Snub‘Came Through Solidly’: S Jaishankar Flags Global Risks, Says India Emerged Resilient Amid CrisisIran War, LPG Crisis Row Expose Congress Rift As Leaders Counter Rahul Gandhi’s Stand OpenlyIndia Navigates Hormuz Crisis With New Route As UN Resolution On Shipping Hits Major RoadblockAfter Op Sindoor Row, India Reopens Talks With Azerbaijan, Balancing Disputes And Cooperation’Will Use India, Throw Under The Bus’: Ex-Pentagon Analyst Reveals US Policy Towards DelhiBangladesh PM Tarique Rahman To Visit India Soon As Delhi-Dhaka Reset Ties: ReportCongress Leader Anand Sharma Praises Modi Govt’s West Asia Diplomacy, Urges National Unity Amid War123PhotostoriesFive funniest sitcom characters ever: George Costanza, Michael Scott and moreEarly cancer symptoms that often feel harmless: Warning signs people ignore and when to see a doctorTop 5 areas in Kochi for residential living and property investment11 iconic Indian dishes that have a cult following across the country6 simple hacks to reduce your induction cooking billBuying your first diamond? 5 golden rules you absolutely need to knowThese spiritual wallpapers for your phone that can change your destiny5 high-end residential localities in Goa shaping the luxury real estate marketFrom gharials to wolves: Wildlife sanctuaries saving India’s rarest speciesKerala Elections 2026: Inside the manifesto battle between LDF, UDF and NDA — In pics123Hot PicksPakistan Petrol CrisisRuturaj GaikwadKick StreamerShashi TharoorStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingAllahabad High CourtOrissa High CourtTamil nadu pollsBengal PollsAnil RathodToll PaymentRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal script IPL history, become fastest Indian pair to… | Cricket News Kashmir start-up bets on laser power tech; Pune likely among first rollout hub Punjabi singer Sunanda Sharma cancels show after frightening stage invasion at Ghaziabad; fan taken into police custody ‘Felt like falling out of sky’: Artemis II astronaut on Moon-bound journey Trump considering firing FBI director Kash Patel according to White House officials: Report From school boards to the White House: How Moms for Liberty is shaping US education policy and student futures Salman Khan spoke to fan for two hours before her heart transplant, says survivor Reena Raju: ‘He has kindness written all over him’