Ahad Raza Mir and Yumna Zaidi to star in Hum TV’s Cafe Firaq

Air India has appointed former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde Gebremariam as its new chief executive officer, entrusting him with leading the airline through a challenging period marked by financial losses, operational setbacks and heightened safety concerns. Gebremariam succeeds Campbell Wilson, who stepped down in April after overseeing the airline’s initial restructuring following its acquisition by the Tata Group in 2022. The Air India board unanimously selected Gebremariam after an extensive global search, citing his leadership experience and strong operational record. During more than a decade at Ethiopian Airlines, he expanded the carrier’s fleet significantly and helped transform it into one of Africa’s leading and most profitable airlines. His appointment comes at a difficult time for Air India, which continues to recover from last year’s fatal Ahmedabad–London plane crash that claimed 260 lives. The airline is also dealing with mounting financial pressure after reporting a record loss of nearly $2.3 billion and reducing a significant portion of its international operations. In recent months, Air India has faced several operational disruptions, including flight delays, route adjustments and unexpected diversions. The broader aviation industry in India has also been affected by higher operating costs, aircraft delivery delays, disrupted international routes and stricter regulatory oversight. Industry analysts believe Gebremariam’s experience managing Ethiopian Airlines through the Boeing 737 Max crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic could prove valuable as Air India works to restore public confidence. Experts say his immediate priorities will include strengthening safety standards, improving employee morale, modernising the airline’s fleet, expanding its network and returning the carrier to long-term profitability.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said he forgives students who shouted abusive slogans against him during last month’s nationwide demonstrations, describing them as “misled children” who should be guided instead of punished. Speaking in a video message, Modi said the protesters had used offensive language against him and his late mother during the demonstrations. Despite that, he said he did not want young people to face legal action or social persecution, stressing that they should be shown the “right path” rather than dragged into lengthy court proceedings. The protests emerged after controversy surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), one of India’s largest competitive examinations. The movement gained momentum after the exam was cancelled because of a paper leak, forcing more than two million students to retake the test. What began as an online campaign for education reforms quickly developed into a nationwide protest movement, drawing thousands of students onto the streets. The demonstrations eventually ended after the Indian government accepted several key demands, including the resignation of the education minister. Authorities also announced that criminal cases against protesters would not be pursued. However, reports indicate that police in several states later registered cases against hundreds of demonstrators, particularly those accused of clashing with security personnel or participating in protests where anti-government slogans were raised. The development has sparked criticism from opposition parties and student groups, who argue that it contradicts the government’s earlier assurances. The protests were accompanied by clashes between demonstrators and security forces in several cities. In New Delhi, police used tear gas, baton charges and other crowd-control measures to stop protesters attempting to march towards parliament. Some student activists have also alleged that participants, particularly female protesters, became targets of online harassment and threats on social media following the demonstrations. Rights advocates have expressed concern over the growing hostility directed at student activists during the protest movement. The opposition has intensified pressure on the government, demanding accountability for the police response to the demonstrations. Critics have also questioned the continued registration of cases against protesters despite earlier commitments to withdraw legal action. Meanwhile, the Indian government has introduced legislation aimed at strengthening laws against examination fraud. The proposed bill seeks tougher penalties, including longer prison terms and heavier fines, for those involved in examination paper leaks.

Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah has appealed for peace and restraint after deadly clashes between Hindu and Muslim communities in the country’s southern region left three people dead and prompted authorities to impose curfews in several districts. In his first major national address since taking office in March, Shah urged citizens to remain calm and reject violence, calling on political leaders, religious groups, civil society and the media to work together to preserve national unity. “I appeal to everyone to exercise patience and help restore peace, harmony and brotherhood,” the prime minister said, while assuring the public that the government would conduct a fair and transparent investigation into the violence. The unrest began earlier this week in Sunsari district near the Indian border after a dispute reportedly erupted during a Hindu religious procession. The disagreement centered on loud music and the display of religious flags, which escalated into violent clashes between members of the Hindu and Muslim communities. Police intervened to disperse the crowds and opened fire during the confrontation. Two people were killed in the initial violence, according to officials. A third person later died during a protest in the neighbouring Siraha district despite a curfew being in force. Following the violence, authorities imposed strict curfews in Sunsari and nearby districts to prevent further unrest. Security forces have been deployed across the affected areas, while police remain on high alert to protect public property and maintain law and order. Police officials said security personnel are attempting to restore normalcy while using the minimum level of force necessary to prevent additional clashes. Authorities also warned against the spread of misinformation that could further inflame tensions. The government has pledged to identify those responsible for the violence and bring them before the courts. Officials said the investigation would be conducted impartially and that anyone found involved in the unrest would face legal action.