Outrage Over Exclusion of Female Journalists at Afghan FM Event

A press conference held by Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi on March 15, 2024, sparked significant outrage after female journalists were barred from attending the event. The foreign minister addressed various topics during his discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, but the exclusion of women from the press meeting has drawn criticism from various sectors, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding women’s rights in Afghanistan.

The incident reflects broader issues pertaining to gender equality in media coverage. Critics labeled the Afghan embassy’s decision as an “insult to India’s women,” emphasizing the need for inclusive practices in journalism. The controversy continued as Muttaqi attended another event at Deoband, where female journalists again faced restrictions.

In related news, an investigation into the manufacturer of Coldrif cough syrup has revealed serious lapses by the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (TNFDA). The Kanchipuram-based company is under scrutiny following reports linking its product to the deaths of children in Madhya Pradesh. According to sources from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), the investigation has uncovered failures in regulatory compliance that could have prevented these tragic outcomes.

Bengaluru is currently grappling with a severe garbage burning crisis, which is exacerbating air pollution in the city. Residents near Chiikkasubbanna Road in the Mahadeva Pura area report frequent incidents of unidentified individuals setting fire to waste during night hours, posing health risks to the community.

In another noteworthy development, a Kerala minister suggested that consuming wild boar meat could be a potential solution for crop damage caused by the animals. The minister clarified that wild boars are not classified as endangered species, raising discussions on wildlife management and agricultural practices.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) is advocating for a renewed focus on ancient mathematics in Indian education. While recognizing the country’s mathematical legacy, there are concerns that this emphasis could undermine students’ readiness for global challenges, particularly in abstract reasoning and innovation.

As the Nobel Prizes for 2025 conclude, the achievements of the laureates continue to inspire advancements in various scientific fields. The contributions of these individuals showcase the ongoing importance of research and development globally.

Veteran screenwriter Javed Akhtar has voiced his disappointment regarding the approval process for films in India. He criticized the regulatory bodies for allowing movies with vulgar content to receive clearance while those reflecting societal realities often face unnecessary hurdles.

Finally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested an executive from Anil Ambani‘s Reliance Group on charges of money laundering. This action marks a significant development in ongoing investigations into financial misconduct within the corporation.

These events illustrate a complex interplay of cultural, regulatory, and social issues affecting various sectors in India, highlighting the need for continued dialogue and reform.