MP Sanjay Raut compares Eid qurbani with temple’s rituals
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has sparked a fresh political and social debate after defending the practice of Eid “Qurbani” and comparing it with animal sacrifice rituals performed at the Kamakhya Temple. Speaking at a press conference amid tensions surrounding Bakrid-related animal sacrifice in parts of Maharashtra, Raut questioned what he described as selective criticism of certain religious customs. Referring to rituals at the Kamakhya Temple, he asked why sacrifices associated with one faith are accepted while similar practices followed by another community face opposition. Raut also said Maharashtra has historically been a land of meat-eaters and linked the tradition of sacrifice to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Maratha warrior culture. According to him, sacrifice is deeply connected to both religious faith and the spirit of protecting the nation. “Without sacrifice, neither the country nor Maharashtra can survive,” Raut said while defending the practice. His remarks came amid controversy in Mira Road, where disputes linked to Bakrid animal sacrifice reportedly led to tensions and heavy police deployment in the area. Raut further alleged that certain groups were attempting to polarise society ahead of elections by targeting specific religious customs and traditions. The statement has drawn mixed reactions across political and social circles. Supporters defended Raut’s remarks, saying he was speaking against what they see as double standards in the treatment of religious practices. Critics, however, accused him of fuelling controversy by invoking religious rituals and identity politics.
Hardik Pandya set to quit Mumbai Indians after disastrous IPL 2026
Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has reportedly decided to part ways with the franchise during the IPL 2026 season. According to sources, Pandya informed the team management that he wishes to step away due to mental stress, exhaustion, and the immense pressure surrounding the team’s disappointing campaign. Speculation about internal issues within the Mumbai Indians camp had been circulating for several weeks. The five-time IPL champions endured a difficult season marked by inconsistent performances, leading to criticism from fans as well as former cricketers disappointed by the team’s struggles. Reports suggest that Pandya was frustrated with the lack of support from certain senior players in the squad. The all-rounder reportedly felt that some teammates who often emphasized the importance of giving “100 percent commitment” while representing India did not show the same level of dedication and backing when he was leading Mumbai Indians as captain. Pandya’s return to the franchise and his appointment as skipper had already generated significant attention and debate before the start of the season. Throughout IPL 2026, his captaincy decisions, team selections, and on-field strategies remained under constant scrutiny amid the team’s poor run of form. So far, neither Mumbai Indians nor Hardik Pandya has officially confirmed the reports. However, the development has become a major talking point in the cricketing world, with speculation growing over Pandya’s future and whether he could join another franchise after leaving Mumbai Indians.
CCTV footage of assault on SP’s Mahila Morcha leader Gargi Patel
CCTV footage from Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh shows brutal assault of Samajwadi Party Mahila Morcha leader Gargi Patel inside her residence has surfaced online, triggering widespread concern and outrage. According to preliminary reports, a group of unidentified individuals allegedly forced their way into Patel’s home and launched a violent attack on her. The footage reportedly shows the assailants dragging her by the hair across the floor before repeatedly beating her inside the house. Gargi Patel, associated with the Samajwadi Party’s Mahila Morcha unit in Chandauli, suffered severe injuries in the assault and was rushed to a district hospital for treatment. Sources at the hospital said her condition remains critical. Police have initiated an investigation into the incident and are examining the CCTV footage to identify those involved in the attack. Officials have not yet established the motive behind the assault, and no arrests had been reported at the time of writing. The incident has sparked anger among local residents and political workers, who are demanding swift action against the perpetrators and stronger security measures for political representatives. More details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.