Category Archives: politics

‘Jolly LLB 3’ reviews: What netizens said about Akshay-Arshad’s film

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**Jolly LLB 3 Reviews: What Netizens Are Saying About Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi’s Latest Film**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 19, 2025, 01:23 PM*

The much-anticipated courtroom drama *Jolly LLB 3*, starring Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi, has finally hit theaters. Directed by Subhash Kapoor, the film marks the return of both actors reprising their iconic roles from the beloved series.

### Franchise Continuation: Warsi and Kumar Return as ‘Jolly’

*Jolly LLB 3* is the third installment following *Jolly LLB* (2013) and *Jolly LLB 2* (2017). In this sequel, Akshay Kumar reprises his role as Jagdwishwar “Jolly” Mishra, while Arshad Warsi returns as Jagdish “Jolly” Tyagi. The film’s plot centers on a high-stakes land-grabbing case involving a political heavyweight, inspired by the 2011 land acquisition protests in Uttar Pradesh.

### Positive Reception from Netizens

The film has been met with a wave of positive responses online. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), viewers have praised the film’s engaging screenplay and powerful storytelling.

One user commented, “What a performance by Akshay Kumar & Arshad Warsi. Great comedy with great screenplay and an emotional message.”

Another shared, “Watched #JollyLLB3 — what an intense courtroom scene. This movie is dedicated to farmers. It’s about their fight for justice. Masterpiece.”

A devoted fan wrote, “#JollyLLB3 is awesome. From start to finish, it’s full of laughter, thoughtful social messages, and fantastic courtroom drama.”

### Pre-Release Controversy

Before its release, *Jolly LLB 3* faced controversy regarding claims that it mocked the judiciary through its promotional material and the song *Bhai Vakeel Hai*. However, petitions filed in the Bombay and Allahabad High Courts were dismissed. Both courts ruled that satire does not undermine the dignity of the judiciary.

Following this, the film was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a U/A certificate accompanied by a “16+ advisory,” after minor edits were made.

—

For a detailed critique, [read our full review here](#).
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/akshay-kumar-arshad-warsi-s-jolly-llb-3-twitter-review/story

Rajnath Singh: India showed retaliation strength in Operation Sindoor

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The Defence Minister recently interacted with a group of 1965 war veterans, reflecting on India’s military resilience and determination.

“We launched Operation Sindoor and showed the enemy just how strong our retaliation can be. The coordination and courage with which our team worked have proven that victory is no longer an exception for us. Victory has become our habit. And we must always maintain this habit,” Singh said.

Addressing the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Defence Minister expressed the government’s resolve to bring the perpetrators to justice. “Whenever that incident comes to our mind, our hearts become heavy. What happened there shook all of us to the core. But that incident could not break our morale. Our Prime Minister has taken this resolve that this time the terrorists will be taught such a lesson that they would never have even imagined,” he added.

In response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 people dead, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7. The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in territories controlled by Pakistan. These strikes triggered four days of intense clashes, which ended with an understanding to stop military actions on May 10.

Singh also reflected on India’s challenges since Independence, stating, “India as a nation has not been very fortunate in matters concerning its neighbours since Independence. Challenges of one kind or another have always come before us. But this is the specialty of us Indians — that we do not sit back accepting these challenges as fate. We work hard and shape our own destiny, creating our own future.”

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/rajnath-singh-india-showed-retaliation-strength-in-operation-sindoor-23594800

Babus, mantris & buzz: China’s Dams on Brahmaputra: AI Ambitions Behind Water Power?

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**China’s Dams on Brahmaputra: AI Ambitions Behind Water Power?**

Speculation is growing in strategic circles that China’s rapid dam-building along the Brahmaputra and in Tibet may not be driven by hydropower needs alone. According to diplomatic sources, the energy generated from these projects could eventually feed massive data centers aimed at powering China’s AI revolution.

The scale of electricity required for such centers has prompted questions about Beijing’s infrastructural choices and long-term ambitions. Indian officials, aware of these developments, are said to have raised concerns with their Chinese counterparts. Quietly, New Delhi has also been sharing limited water-related information with close allies, including the United States, to alert them to the larger implications.

Sources suggest India fears that what appears to be a “run-of-the-river” hydropower initiative could, in reality, be laying the groundwork for AI-centric data infrastructure. While China has officially denied any diversionary intent, analysts point to the strategic coupling of water, energy, and technological power as part of Beijing’s future roadmap.

The Brahmaputra’s waters may thus be flowing into a much larger story—one that merges geopolitics, climate security, and the global contest for artificial intelligence dominance.

—

**India’s Security Apparatus Watches Pakistan’s Nuclear Pact with UAE Closely**

In a significant development, Saudi Arabia and nuclear-armed Pakistan have signed a formal mutual defense pact, marking a major deepening of their long-standing security partnership. The agreement commits both nations to enhanced defense cooperation and joint deterrence, with a declaration that any aggression against one will be treated as aggression against both. This move aims to bolster their regional and global security profile.

India’s security establishment is closely monitoring the development. Sources indicate that New Delhi has initiated high-level consultations to assess the pact’s strategic implications. According to senior officials, calls have already been made at the highest levels of government to evaluate how this renewed Riyadh-Islamabad security axis may alter the regional balance and affect India’s broader strategic interests.

—

### Bureaucracy Updates

**About 30 IAS Officers of 1995 Batch to be Empanelled**

Around 30 IAS officers from the 1995 batch are likely to be empanelled to the rank of Secretary in the Government of India. Currently, about 20 IAS officers from this batch are posted in the GoI.

**Addl Secretary Post Vacant in Higher Education Department**

Following the departure of Sunil Burnwal to the Ministry of Health, the position of Additional Secretary in the Department of Higher Education remains vacant.

**Renu Raj Receives Fulbright Scholarship**

Dr. Renu Raj, a 2015 batch Kerala cadre IAS officer, has been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study Public Health at Harvard University.

**Khushboo Goel Choudhary Proposed as Karnataka IT Secretary**

Khushboo Goel Choudhary is reportedly being strongly backed by Minister Priyank Kharge to become the next IT Secretary of Karnataka. She holds a degree in public policy from Harvard and is considered close to Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh.

**Varun Kumar Shukla Selected as CMD, Hindustan Salts Ltd**

Varun Kumar Shukla, GM at Richardson & Cruddas Limited, has been selected as Chairman-cum-Managing Director of Hindustan Salts Limited. The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) held a meeting on September 17, 2025, during which seven candidates were interviewed.

**Manikumar Sivaramakrishnan Recommended for DMD, IFCI Ltd**

The name of Manikumar Sivaramakrishnan has been recommended for the position of Deputy Managing Director of IFCI Limited.

**Bipul Pathak Appointed as Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Delhi Govt**

Bipul Pathak, a 1992 batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, has been appointed as the Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary (Home), Government of Delhi.

**Ms. Manisha Sinha Returns to Parent Cadre**

Ms. Manisha Sinha, Additional Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs, has been given premature repatriation to her parent cadre.

**VRS of Four Senior IRS Officers Accepted**

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has accepted the Voluntary Retirement Scheme applications of four senior IRS (C&IT) officers:

– Dr. J. Michael Kennedy, 1993 batch, Principal Additional Director General
– Ms. Sudha Koka, IRS (C&IT), 1995 batch, Principal Additional Director General
– Shaik Khader Rahman, IRS (C&IT), 1992 batch, Chief Commissioner
– Mrinal Chatterjee, 2018 batch, Deputy Director

—

**India’s Home Ministry Commissions Study on Protest Financing, Sops to Shield Internal Stability Expected**

India’s Ministry of Home Affairs has directed the Bureau of Police Research & Development to undertake an in-depth study of post-Independence protest movements, with a special focus on the period after 1974. The study aims to map reasons, patterns, outcomes, behind-the-scenes actors, and funding trails.

This effort, linked to the recent National Security Strategies Conference 2025 in New Delhi, will culminate in standard operating procedures (SOPs) to pre-empt mass agitations driven by vested interests. The mandate includes inter-agency coordination with financial intelligence and tax bodies to trace protest-linked money flows. Parallel frameworks will also be developed by central agencies to disrupt terror financing networks and tackle extremism-crime nexuses impacting public order and national security.

—

### Other Key Appointments and Developments

– **Hemant Kumar Das in Race for CMD, Coal India Ltd**
Hemant Kumar Das, ED (Projects) at Power Finance Corporation, is among the contenders for the post of Chairman-cum-Managing Director at Coal India Limited.

– **Mangesh Ghildiyal’s Tenure Extended as Deputy Secretary, PMO**
The central deputation tenure of Mangesh Ghildiyal, a 2012 batch IAS officer of the UD cadre working as Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, has been extended till March 31, 2026.

– **Ashok Kumar Appointed as Director, Consumer Affairs**
Ashok Kumar, a 2012 batch Indian Engineering Services officer, has been appointed Director in the Department of Consumer Affairs.

– **Raj Kumar Chaudhary Appointed Chairperson, JERC (J&K and Ladakh)**
Raj Kumar Chaudhary, retired Chairman and Managing Director of NHPC Limited, has been appointed Chairperson of the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) for the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

—

*Disclaimer: The correctness of this content is the responsibility of the author. Published in arrangement with whispersinthecorridors.com.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/corporate-gallery/babus-mantris-buzz-chinas-dams-on-brahmaputra-ai-ambitions-behind-water-power

DUSU Election Results 2025 Today: Counting Underway, High Court Bars Victory Processions In Delhi

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DUSU Election Results 2025: Vote Counting Underway Amid High Security

The eagerly-awaited vote counting for the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) Election 2025 began on Friday morning at the North Campus Convention Centre, with heavy security in place. Chief Election Officer Prof. Raj Kishor Sharma announced that the process started promptly at 8 AM after the strong rooms were opened in the presence of contesting candidates. He added that the counting is expected to continue through 18–20 rounds before final results are declared by evening.

High Voter Turnout This Year

This year, over 2.75 lakh students were eligible to vote across 52 centres and 195 booths using 711 Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The overall voter turnout was 39.45 percent, marking a nearly 4 percent increase compared to last year. This rise in participation is being seen as a sign of renewed interest in campus politics among students.

21 Candidates in the Fray

A total of twenty-one candidates are contesting for the four key positions: President, Vice President, Secretary, and Joint Secretary. Among these, nine candidates are vying for the president’s post, which remains highly competitive. The central battle is primarily between the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), which is backed by the Congress party.

Delhi High Court Issues Curbs

In light of the intense contest, the Delhi High Court has stepped in to ensure peace in the city. On Wednesday, the court ruled that no victory processions will be allowed anywhere in Delhi following the announcement of results, citing concerns over maintaining law and order.

Results Expected by Evening

With a record number of security personnel deployed to maintain order and transparency, the DUSU 2025 results are anticipated to be announced by this evening. These outcomes are expected to set the tone for student politics in the upcoming academic year.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/dusu-election-results-2025-today-counting-underway-high-court-bars-victory-processions-in-delhi

Karnataka’s New Backward Class Survey Raises Questions On Quotas, Accuracy And Social Justice

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In a bid to resolve the Karnataka caste conundrum, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has mandated yet another survey of backward classes, the fifth since 1975. But if competing interest groups can strong-arm a state government into rejecting survey data, can the exercise result in an objective identification of socially and economically backward groups?

The move brings into focus the increasing complexity of India’s quota system and the urgent need for rationalisation based on accurate data.

### The Karnataka Backward Classes Survey Controversy

In Karnataka, the 2015 Kantharaj Commission conducted an exhaustive survey that covered almost the entire population of the state. However, its report was kept in abeyance until 2024. The full data is not yet available, but politically influential communities such as the Lingayats and Vokkaligas have complained about massive undercounting of their respective populations.

Media reports citing earlier commissions — the 1986 Venkataswamy and 1990 O Chinnappa Reddy commissions — allege a sharp decline in the share of the Lingayat population, from 17% in 1986 to 11% in 2015. To avert a political firestorm, the state government has ordered a fresh survey.

Meanwhile, the opposition has highlighted the lack of transparency regarding the Kantharaj Commission’s findings. They also point out that a pan-India caste census is scheduled for the coming year, questioning the justification for spending Rs 420 crore of taxpayers’ money on a fresh survey.

### Challenges in Census Data and Quota Systems

Further complications may arise if the data from the pan-India caste census does not match that of the state backward class commission survey.

Similar challenges have occurred elsewhere. In Telangana, the state caste census evoked criticism over alleged unscientific methodology, data manipulation, and undercounting of backward classes and other communities. The debate also reignited discussions on whether non-Hindus should be included in the caste census, since caste stratification is not recognised by religions other than Hinduism.

Telangana has justified a quota for Muslims on the grounds of ‘backwardness’ rather than religion. This argument implicitly recognises the de facto existence of caste among Muslim communities, although social equality is a core tenet of Islam. It remains for the courts to make a final ruling on this matter.

### Political Pressures and Judicial Caps on Quotas

Caste census data is bound to be controversial as competing interest groups jostle to claim a larger share of the population, and therefore quotas. State governments must summon the political will to resist such pressures and act judiciously on the data.

The basic objective of the caste census is to promote social justice. This means not just identifying communities under-represented in education, employment, and political representation, but also formulating policies based on hard data.

Typically, this translates into allocating larger quotas for these communities in government institutions and representative bodies. However, increasing the quota for one community generally means reducing it for another, something no state government is prepared to do.

For example, after the 2022 Bihar caste census, the state government expanded quotas for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Economically Backward Classes (EBCs) to a combined 65% by amending existing reservation statutes. But in June 2024, the Patna High Court set aside these amendments on constitutional grounds, and the Supreme Court refused to intervene, leaving quotas capped at 50%.

Similarly, courts in other states have enforced the 50% cap on caste-based quotas. The Chhattisgarh High Court struck down an order increasing quotas to 58% in 2022. The Bombay High Court has invalidated quota expansions exceeding 50% and is hearing petitions against renewed attempts. The Rajasthan and Orissa High Courts have also rejected quota increases beyond the 50% ceiling.

### Moving Beyond Inflating the Reservation Pie

State governments should not view the caste census merely as a tool to inflate the size of the reservation pie. Instead, this valuable data has multiple applications.

Firstly, it can guide a fairer distribution of quotas within categories. States can implement quotas within quotas, even for Scheduled Castes.

For instance, the Rohini Commission highlighted how dominant OBC groups corner benefits to the detriment of others — revealing that a third of OBCs had received no benefits at all. This underscores the acute need for reservation reforms based on accurate census data.

However, slicing quotas more finely may provoke social unrest. This has intensified pressure on the judiciary to either lift the 50% cap on quotas or to extend reservations to the private sector. Both options carry potential downsides, including exacerbating the ‘brain drain’ as talent leaves India — a risky outcome as the nation seeks to leverage its human capital for development.

### Using Census Data to Enhance Welfare Measures

Another significant application of caste census data lies in formulating welfare measures. Accurate numbers enable better targeting of subsidies, community development programmes, and financial allocations to the most underprivileged groups.

Vote bank politics often leads to haphazard tinkering with quotas, resulting in chaotic outcomes. States should await the comprehensive caste census data and use it constructively to rationalise the quota system and target genuinely underprivileged communities more effectively.

—

**About the Author:**
Bhavdeep Kang is a senior journalist with 35 years of experience working with major newspapers and magazines. She is currently an independent writer and author.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/analysis/karnatakas-new-backward-class-survey-raises-questions-on-quotas-accuracy-and-social-justice

Brigitte Macron to provide ‘scientific’ gender evidence in US lawsuit

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Photos of Brigitte Macron, wife of the French president, could be presented in court as part of the defamation case brought by the Macrons against US right-wing influencer Candace Owens.

The couple has filed a 22-count lawsuit in the US state of Delaware, accusing Owens of knowingly spreading false claims, including the assertion that Brigitte Macron was born a man.

“We’re going to have the two testimonies of the two plaintiffs. There will be expert testimony that will come out that will be scientific in nature and will also demonstrate the falsity of the statements,” Macrons’ lawyer Tom Clare told the BBC on Thursday.

The lawsuit describes the Macrons as victims of a global humiliation campaign that is invasive, dehumanising, and deeply unjust.

However, Owens has stood by her remarks even after the lawsuit was filed.
https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3326055/french-first-lady-brigitte-macron-provide-scientific-gender-evidence-us-lawsuit?utm_source=rss_feed

EXCLUSIVE: Jimmy Kimmel Removal Sends ‘Chilling’ Signal to Other Comics About ‘Political Pressure’ to Avoid Hot Takes

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**Jimmy Kimmel Suspended Indefinitely After Controversial Comments About Charlie Kirk Assassination**

*Published: September 18, 2025, 5:15 p.m. ET*

The abrupt removal of Jimmy Kimmel from the airwaves should serve as a “chilling” warning to other topical comedians, an entertainment insider exclusively told RadarOnline.com. This development comes after Kimmel was “suspended indefinitely” following his controversial comments about the alleged assassination of political commentator Charlie Kirk.

Kimmel and his self-titled late-night talk show, *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*, have both been silenced by ABC since the host accused Kirk’s alleged killer, Tyler Robinson, of being affiliated with the MAGA movement during one of his opening monologues.

Following this, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) threatened action against the network, and several local affiliates announced they would no longer air new episodes of the program. In response, Disney decided to bench the 57-year-old host outright.

Grayce McCormick, founder of Lightfinder Public Relations, explained to RadarOnline.com that the company likely had little choice in the matter.

> “From Disney’s perspective, pulling the show was a classic crisis-containment move,” she said. “With affiliates refusing carriage and an FCC official weighing in, the network was facing both business and regulatory risks.

> “In that light, suspension is less about the joke itself and more about protecting distribution and shareholder interests.”

### First Amendment Concerns

On a broader scale, McCormick warned that the swift and stunning action against Kimmel could have long-lasting effects on how the First Amendment is interpreted.

> “Culturally, the optics are chilling: it signals to comedians that the boundaries of humor are no longer defined solely by advertisers and audiences, but also by affiliates and political pressure,” she added.

> “That precedent will make other performers second-guess whether satire is worth the risk.”

She noted that with the nation already politically tense, Kimmel’s comments became a flashpoint.

> “His comments landed in the immediate aftermath of a high-profile tragedy, triggering a backlash amplified by right-wing political figures and affiliates.

> “That convergence turned one edgy monologue into a crisis of distribution and optics.”

### The Controversial Comments

Kimmel’s controversial remarks came during his Monday evening opening monologue, when he said:

> “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

The comments quickly reached FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who threatened “immediate action” against Kimmel, ABC, and Disney for “deliberately misleading the public” by claiming that Robinson held deep GOP beliefs.

On Wednesday, September 17, Carr appeared on Benny Johnson’s podcast, calling the comments “truly sick” and insisting they should result in Kimmel’s immediate suspension. Carr emphasized that networks are required to hold a broadcasting license granted by the FCC, which comes with a responsibility to operate in the public interest.

### Jimmy Kimmel’s Reaction

According to sources, Kimmel is “absolutely f—— livid” with ABC after his show was canceled just hours before he was due to go on air, and he is refusing to apologize. One producer described the crew as “wandering around like aimless cows,” adding:

> “I’ve never seen Jimmy this angry.”

Reports also suggest Kimmel has threatened to “break his relationship” with Disney forever.

### What’s Next for Kimmel?

Despite the current setback, Kimmel may still have the ultimate last laugh. RadarOnline.com has learned that the comedian is considering sharing his side of the story on *The Late Show* with Stephen Colbert, who was recently axed by CBS.

As this story develops, it highlights the complex intersection of comedy, politics, and corporate interests in today’s media landscape.
https://radaronline.com/p/jimmy-kimmel-removal-signal-comics-political-pressure/

EXCLUSIVE: Jimmy Kimmel Removal Sends ‘Chilling’ Signal to Other Comics About ‘Political Pressure’ to Avoid Hot Takes

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**Jimmy Kimmel Suspended Indefinitely Following Controversial Comments on Charlie Kirk Assassination**

*Published: September 18, 2025, 5:15 p.m. ET*

The abrupt removal of Jimmy Kimmel from the airwaves serves as a chilling warning to other topical comedians, according to an entertainment insider speaking exclusively to RadarOnline.com. The late-night host was “suspended indefinitely” after making controversial remarks about the alleged assassination of Charlie Kirk.

Kimmel and his self-titled late-night talk show, *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*, have both been silenced by ABC following his accusation that Tyler Robinson—the alleged killer—was part of the MAGA movement. This claim was made during one of his opening monologues.

The controversy escalated quickly. After the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) threatened action against ABC, and several local affiliates announced they would not air new episodes of the show, Disney made the decision to bench the 57-year-old host outright.

**A Crisis-Containment Move**

Grayce McCormick, founder of Lightfinder Public Relations, told RadarOnline.com that Disney had little choice in the matter. “From Disney’s perspective, pulling the show was a classic crisis-containment move,” she explained. “With affiliates refusing carriage and an FCC official weighing in, the network was facing both business and regulatory risks.”

She added, “In that light, suspension is less about the joke itself and more about protecting distribution and shareholder interests.”

**First Amendment Concerns**

McCormick also highlighted the broader implications of the swift action taken against Kimmel. She warned that it could have lasting effects on the interpretation of the First Amendment.

“Culturally, the optics are chilling: it signals to comedians that the boundaries of humor are no longer defined solely by advertisers and audiences, but also by affiliates and political pressure,” McCormick said. “That precedent will make other performers second-guess whether satire is worth the risk.”

She noted that with the nation already highly polarized, Kimmel’s remarks became a flashpoint. “His comments landed in the immediate aftermath of a high-profile tragedy, triggering a backlash amplified by right-wing political figures and affiliates. That convergence turned one edgy monologue into a crisis of distribution and optics.”

**Controversial Comments Spark Backlash**

Kimmel’s controversial statements were made during his Monday evening opening monologue:

> “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

These comments caught the attention of FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who threatened “immediate action” against Kimmel, ABC, and Disney for “deliberately misleading the public” by claiming Robinson was buried knee-deep in GOP beliefs.

On Wednesday, September 17, Carr appeared on Benny Johnson’s podcast, calling Kimmel’s comments “truly sick” and stating they should result in the host’s immediate suspension. Carr explained that networks require licenses granted by the FCC to broadcast, which come with a responsibility to operate in the public interest.

**Jimmy Kimmel’s Reaction**

Sources say Kimmel is “absolutely f—— livid” with ABC after being pulled from the air just hours before his scheduled broadcast, and he is refusing to apologize.

One of the show’s producers described the atmosphere behind the scenes: crew members were “wandering around like aimless cows,” adding, “I’ve never seen Jimmy this angry.”

Kimmel has reportedly even threatened to “break his relationship” with Disney permanently.

In what could be the ultimate last laugh, RadarOnline.com has learned that Kimmel is contemplating revealing his side of the story on CBS star Stephen Colbert’s *The Late Show*, which recently faced cancellation.
https://radaronline.com/p/jimmy-kimmel-removal-signal-comics-political-pressure/

MAGA Drummed Up B.S. to Take Down Jimmy Kimmel

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Jimmy Kimmel’s Late-Night Show Suspended Amid Controversy Over Comments on Charlie Kirk Assassination

ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show on Wednesday following a brief pressure campaign from the Trump administration and conservative media outlets. The backlash came after Kimmel made remarks during last week’s assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk that were misconstrued by conservatives seeking political mileage.

### Kimmel’s Comments and Conservative Backlash

On Monday’s episode of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*, the comedian criticized conservatives for attempting to score political points from Kirk’s death.
“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it,” Kimmel said during his monologue.

Kimmel’s somewhat ambiguous comments followed a weekend during which conservatives blamed the left and transgender individuals for Kirk’s killing. At the time, little was known about the alleged shooter’s motives. On Tuesday, prosecutors disclosed that the suspect, Tyler Robinson, told his trans roommate and apparent romantic partner, “I had enough of his hatred.”

Despite limited information, conservatives launched a sprawling campaign demanding Kimmel’s firing, accusing him of claiming a right-winger had murdered Kirk. However, Kimmel never explicitly said on ABC that the alleged killer was a MAGA member, contrary to claims from the political right.

### Media Misrepresentation and Amplification

A Fox News article on Tuesday evening stated that Kimmel insinuated Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk’s alleged assassin was part of the MAGA movement. Fox News contributor Joe Concha claimed, “Jimmy Kimmel’s argument is that the guy with the trans boyfriend took down, gunned down the biggest supporter and advocate of President Trump because he’s MAGA.”

Fox News host Will Cain added on Wednesday that Kimmel was trying to “make the assassin MAGA,” while Brian Kilmeade, another Fox host, accused Kimmel of saying, “These MAGA guys wanted to pretend that this guy wasn’t one of them.”

Other conservative outlets joined the chorus. The Daily Wire wrote that “Kimmel claimed the suspected assassin of Charlie Kirk was part of President Donald Trump’s MAGA movement,” and The Blaze declared: “Jimmy Kimmel claims Charlie Kirk shooter is MAGA during wildly unfunny monologue.”

None of these characterizations accurately reflected Kimmel’s original comments.

### Conservative Podcasters and FCC Pressure

Conservative podcaster Benny Johnson escalated the controversy on Wednesday morning by posting on X that Kimmel told the ABC audience Charlie Kirk’s assassin was a MAGA conservative, effectively blaming Kirk for his own assassination. Johnson called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to revoke ABC’s broadcast license immediately. On his podcast, Johnson reiterated claims that Kimmel implied the right was responsible for Kirk’s killing and suggested the comedian believed Kirk “deserved it.”

In reality, Kimmel condemned the senseless murder of Kirk and criticized any cheering of the violence. On Instagram last week, he wrote:

> “Instead of the angry finger-pointing, can we just for one day agree that it is horrible and monstrous to shoot another human? On behalf of my family, we send love to the Kirks and to all the children, parents, and innocents who fall victim to senseless gun violence.”

Johnson’s calls were joined by Trump’s FCC chairman, Brendan Carr, who described Kimmel’s conduct as “some of the sickest conduct possible” and indicated that the FCC could take action against ABC. Carr accused Kimmel of pushing a narrative that Kirk’s shooter was motivated by MAGA or Republican beliefs and called for licensed broadcasters to take a stand, warning about potential fines or even license revocation for continuing to air “news distortion.”

“We can do this the easy way or the hard way,” Carr said, urging companies like Comcast and Disney to intervene and consider preempting Kimmel’s show.

### ABC and Broadcasters Respond

Within hours of the mounting pressure, ABC and major broadcasters Nexstar and Sinclair removed *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* from their lineups, at least temporarily. According to a report by *Rolling Stone* on Wednesday night, multiple ABC and Disney executives were aware that Kimmel had not crossed any lines or said what conservatives claimed. However, fear of government repercussions led them to suppress any defense or clarification of Kimmel’s statement.

One source familiar with the situation described the internal response as “so cowardly.”

### Trump’s Reaction and Misinformation

Former President Donald Trump, who has long expressed a desire to use federal power against liberal late-night hosts, celebrated the suspension while adding his own inaccuracies to the conversation.

“The ratings challenged Jimmy Kimmel Show is CANCELLED,” he tweeted on Wednesday. The next morning, Trump claimed Kimmel was fired due to bad ratings, although the comedian has not been officially fired. Trump also falsely accused Kimmel of saying a “horrible thing about a great gentleman known as Charlie Kirk,” a statement that never occurred.

Given the successful and noisy MAGA outrage campaign against Kimmel, discerning truth from political spin has been challenging for many.

—

### Related Content

– Charlie Kirk Assassination: What We Know About the Suspect
– Conservatives Push FCC to Punish Media for ‘News Distortion’
– The Role of Late-Night Comedy in Political Discourse

—

**Note:** This article reflects information as of the current date and may be updated as new developments emerge.
https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/jimmy-kimmel-suspended-abc-maga-trump-fcc-bs-1235430544/

DU Polls See 39.45% Turnout; ABVP, NSUI Spar Over Malpractice, Women Candidates Make Strong Pitch

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New Delhi: Amid tight security, a festive atmosphere, and allegations of malpractice, voting for the high-octane Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections was held here on Thursday with an estimated voter turnout of nearly 40 per cent.

While it was a triangular contest, the main battle remained between the RSS-affiliated ABVP and the Congress-backed NSUI. The two parties, which have dominated DUSU polls over the years, traded barbs and allegations even on voting day.

Chief Election Officer Raj Kishore Sharma said polling proceeded smoothly across most colleges. According to officials, a 39.45 per cent voter turnout was recorded, with data from seven to eight colleges still awaited. This figure was better than last year’s 35 per cent.

At Miranda House, more than 60 per cent of the 5,000 students exercised their franchise, showcasing energetic participation. Polling was held in two phases — from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm for day scholars and from 3:00 pm to 7:30 pm for evening students.

To ensure smooth voting, Delhi Police deployed over 600 personnel, including 160 with body-worn cameras, while drones and CCTV surveillance covered sensitive areas. For the first time in years, the university witnessed what students described as “clean and green elections,” with strict enforcement of the Lyngdoh Committee’s anti-defacement guidelines.

Amid the buzz of loudspeakers and the clutter of flyers, another factor that stood out for many in this year’s elections was the visibility of female candidates leading from the front. At polling centres across the university, first-year students arrived in groups — many dropped off by parents eager to let them witness the atmosphere firsthand, while others came in carpools or crowded cabs.

With classes suspended, groups of students stood outside polling booths talking about their experience.

### Prominence of Women Candidates

What sets apart the 2025 polls is the prominence of women candidates in the race for the top post, a development the campus has not seen in almost two decades. ABVP’s Nupur Sharma was the last woman to hold the DUSU president’s office in 2008-09.

The National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) fielded Joslyn Nandita Choudhary, a postgraduate student of Buddhist Studies, who focused her campaign on hostel shortages, campus safety, and the demand for menstrual leave.

The SFI-AISA combine nominated Anjali, a student of Indraprastha College for Women, who campaigned on gender sensitisation, fee hikes, and the restoration of grievance redressal mechanisms.

On the other hand, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) fielded Aryan Maan from Bahadurgarh, who promised subsidised metro passes, free Wi-Fi across campus, accessibility audits for persons with disabilities, and better sports facilities.

### Allegations and Counter-Allegations

Even as polling progressed, the atmosphere remained charged with allegations and counter-allegations.

The NSUI accused the ABVP of “vote manipulation” at Kirori Mal, Hindu, and Hansraj colleges. NSUI president Varun Choudhary demanded the cancellation of ABVP’s presidential candidate’s nomination, alleging “systematic vote chori” and claiming the “RSS-BJP backed ABVP is attempting to undermine the democratic spirit of DU elections.”

The ABVP rejected the charges, terming them “a reflection of NSUI’s frustration.” “The NSUI is no longer in the race for second but struggling for third place,” ABVP Delhi secretary Sarthak Sharma said. He also accused NSUI of “blaming EVMs like the Congress does after every loss.”

ABVP supporters alleged that the current DUSU president and NSUI leader, Ronak Khatri, entered Kirori Mal College with outsiders and created a commotion. Khatri, however, posted a video on X, countering that “the ABVP is pressuring students to cast their votes” and alleging that “vote theft” was taking place since morning.

### High-Profile Student Contest

The DUSU elections remain a high-profile student contest, often seen as a mirror of national political trends. The union was established in 1949, with its first elections held in 1954.

Over the decades, it has produced leaders who went on to hold key positions in Indian politics, including the late Arun Jaitley, Ajay Maken, Alka Lamba, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.

The contest is for four positions — president, vice-president, secretary, and joint secretary — and results will be announced on September 19.

In the 2024 polls, the NSUI ended its seven-year drought by winning the president and joint secretary posts, while the ABVP secured the vice-president’s office and retained the secretary position.

Over the past decade, the ABVP has dominated the presidential elections, winning six times, while the NSUI has bagged the post twice.

From the ABVP, Satendra Awana (2015-16), Amit Tanwar (2016-17), Ankiv Baisoya (2018-19), Shakti Singh (2018-19), Akshit Dahiya (2019-23), and Tushar Dedha (2023-24) have held the president’s office. Shakti Singh was promoted as president after Baisoya resigned following his suspension from the ABVP in a fake degree row.

NSUI broke through in 2017-18 with Rocky Tuseed and again in 2024-25 with Ronak Khatri.

Elections were suspended for two years during the COVID-19 pandemic.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/du-polls-see-3945-turnout-abvp-nsui-spar-over-malpractice-women-candidates-make-strong-pitch