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India Gazette
4 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Calcutta HC decision on OBC list another blow to Mamata Banerjee's
New Delhi [India], June 17 (ANI): BJP leader Amit Malviya on Tuesday hailed the Calcutta High Court's decision that granted interim stay on the West Bengal Government's OBC list notification and said it is another blow to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's 'politics of appeasement'. The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday gave an interim stay on the West Bengal government's recently issued notifications on the OBC list till July 31. A division bench comprising Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Rajasekhar Mantha passed the interim order while hearing petitions challenging the state's classification of communities under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. Malviya, who is in-charge of BJP's National Information & Technology Dept and BJP's co-incharge of West Bengal, attacked the ruling Trinamool Congress government and said it made a desperate attempt to appease a vote bank and 'is a telling commentary on how far the TMC will go to cling to power'. He alleged that West Bengal Government's recent notifications attempted to reintroduce OBC reservations for several Muslim groups 'Another blow to Mamata Banerjee's politics of appeasement! The Calcutta High Court has stayed the West Bengal Government's recent notifications that attempted to reintroduce OBC reservations for several Muslim groups -- the very same classifications that were earlier struck down by the Court,' he said on a post on X. 'The Court's intervention came in response to writ petitions challenging this blatant overreach. The TMC government, in its brazen hurry, tried to sidestep the High Court's earlier judgment by conducting a dubious 'survey' and bypassing established legal procedure. This desperate attempt to appease a vote bank -- in violation of due process and constitutional norms -- is a telling commentary on how far the TMC will go to cling to power. But the judiciary has once again stood as a bulwark against such unlawful appeasement,' he added. Malviya also referred to his tweet made earlier this month in which he had accused the TMC government of appeasement politics. 'OBC = Other Backward Classes, but in West Bengal under Mamata Banerjee, it has become nothing more than a brazen attempt to appease Muslims, in gross violation of constitutional provisions. Mamata claimed in the Assembly: 'OBC list not based on religion. FACT CHECK: Her own government's data proves otherwise. Before 2010: OBC Classes - 66 Muslim - 11 | Non-Muslim - 55 Muslim Share - 20%. New Additions (2025): Part 1: 51 new classes - 46 Muslim (90%) Part 2: 25 new classes - 21 Muslim (84%). If this isn't religion-based appeasement, what is?' he said in a post on X. 'On June 3, 2025, WB government increased OBC reservation in State Services to 17% (from 7%) -- clearly to benefit these newly included Muslim groups. But here's the catch: On Dec 9, 2024, Hon'ble Supreme Court said -- Reservation can't be based on religion. Earlier, Calcutta HC had struck down this exact list for doing just that. The new list is nothing but a blatant contempt of court and an insult to the principles of social justice,' he added. Assembly polls will be held in West Bengal next year. (ANI)
Time of India
13-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
UAE ministry lists 7 valid exam absence reasons: What every parent should know
Students must submit valid excuses within two working days to avoid being marked absent without justification (Representational Image) With final exams for the 2024–2025 academic year currently underway across UAE public and private schools following the national curriculum, the Ministry of Education has outlined seven officially recognized reasons that allow students to miss exams without penalty. The exams, which began on June 10 and will run through June 19, cover grades 3 through 12 and are taking place under a tightened framework of academic discipline, preparedness, and student support. The Ministry made it clear that any absence from exams must be justified using one of the seven approved reasons listed on an official form issued by the Student Performance Assessment Department. Critically, students must submit the original excuse within two working days of the exam date to the head of the school's exam committee, while also retaining a copy for their own records. Any delay or failure to submit the documentation will result in the absence being recorded as 'unjustified. ' The Seven Acceptable Reasons for Missing an Exam According to the Ministry of Education, the following are the only valid grounds for being excused from an exam: Non-Muslim students may be exempted from Islamic Education exams. Medical reasons, supported by an accredited medical report. Bereavement involving a first or second-degree relative. An official summons by a government authority, provided formal documentation is submitted. Emergency travel due to unforeseen circumstances. Unexplained absence, which may be accepted subject to review. Any other clearly stated reason provided by the student or guardian. For Grade 12 students, these excuse forms must be sent to the centralised Exam Results and Evaluation Center. For grades 3 to 11, the forms are to be retained within the school. All decisions on whether an excuse is accepted or rejected must be signed off by the head of the evaluation center (for Grade 12) or the school principal (for all lower grades). by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like US$700 'too much' to ask: What's keeping the starting pay of Malaysia's fresh graduates low? CNA Read More Undo Any failure to meet these requirements or missing the deadline for submission results in the absence being labeled as 'unjustified' in the Ministry's electronic platform, Al Manhal. Such designations can negatively impact the student's final academic results, in line with the UAE Ministry of Education's official regulations. 'These measures aim to uphold discipline and transparency during the examination period, while also considering humanitarian and exceptional circumstances that may prevent students from attending exams as scheduled,' the Ministry stated in its official announcement. 7-Point Directive for Schools: Ensuring Exam-Readiness and Student Well-Being In parallel with the exams, the Ministry of Education has launched an extensive readiness campaign to ensure that both public and private schools are fully prepared, not only logistically but also in terms of student mental well-being. As part of this initiative, the School Operations Sector has issued seven directives to all administrative and teaching staff across the country. These aim to foster an academically conducive environment and reduce stress for students during this critical period: Teachers are asked to model professional behaviour and emotional stability, helping students remain calm under pressure. Schools are tasked with creating a supportive and orderly exam environment, with access to emotional and psychological care to reinforce student confidence. Exam venues and materials must be fully prepared and verified. Regulations must be enforced strictly but fairly. Educators are reminded to communicate the importance of exams as a part of both academic and character development. Finally, staff are encouraged to reflect on their core mission: shaping the future of the nation through the delivery of education. The Ministry emphasized that emotional stability is a key factor in academic success and that the school staff's role extends beyond content delivery, they are essential in cultivating a climate of discipline, motivation, and responsibility. Motivating Students: Ministry Shares Study and Wellness Tips via Social Media In addition to procedural guidelines, the Ministry has rolled out a student-focused awareness campaign through its official social media platforms. As part of this effort, a motivational video was shared featuring a high school student offering peers practical advice on how to manage stress and prepare effectively for exams. The video highlights four strategies to support academic and emotional balance: Students are encouraged to build flexible yet clear daily study schedules that balance learning with rest. They are advised to reduce distractions such as mobile phones, social media, and television, and to study in quiet spaces. Adequate sleep is emphasized as essential, especially the night before an exam. Finally, students are reminded to engage in activities they enjoy, such as walking, sports, listening to music, or hobbies, to maintain their mental well-being throughout the exam period. Exam Timeline and Summer Break Dates As of today, June 13, students across the UAE are midway through their final examinations. Grade 12 students are following three main streams , General, Advanced, and Elite, while an Applied track also runs in parallel. Grade 12 Exam Schedule: June 10: Physics June 11: English June 12: Islamic Education June 13: Chemistry (today's paper) June 16: Mathematics June 17: Arabic June 18: Social Studies June 19: Biology Applied Track Schedule: June 10: Applied Sciences June 11: English June 12: Islamic Education June 16: Applied Mathematics June 17: Arabic June 18: Social Studies For Grades 3 through 9, exams began with Science, while students in Grade 9 (Advanced Track) and up to Grade 11 started with Physics. The Ministry has scheduled the announcement of results between June 30 and July 2. Make-up exams for students with valid excuses will take place from July 4 to 10. Final results will be released on July 14. The summer break for students officially begins on June 30, while teachers and administrative staff will begin their vacation on July 14, coinciding with the close of the academic calendar.
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Marriage contracts in the UAE: Why more couples are choosing prenups
Legal experts say prenuptial agreements can often reduce the bitterness and legal chaos that sometimes follow a marriage breakdown ( Representational Image) The fairytale notion of eternal bliss often overshadows the pragmatic realities of marriage, but in the Gulf region, a quiet revolution is taking foot. Increasingly, couples are choosing to safeguard their futures not just with vows, but with prenuptial agreements. This burgeoning trend is particularly pronounced in the UAE, a nation rapidly evolving its legal landscape to meet modern demands. Here, significant reforms have smoothed the path for drafting, recognizing, and enforcing these crucial contracts. While the concept of a prenup might still carry a whisper of social stigma, suggesting, perhaps, a lack of faith in enduring love, and certainly can't guarantee a "happily ever after," legal minds are unequivocally championing their power. As Khaleej Times has highlighted, these agreements are proving to be remarkably effective tools in softening the sharp edges of separation, transforming what could be acrimonious legal battles into more manageable, and ultimately, less bitter transitions. It's a clear signal that for many, maturity and foresight are now as vital to a strong union as love itself. A Landmark Legal Shift in the UAE A pivotal development that profoundly impacted the landscape of prenuptial agreements in the UAE occurred in 2021. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Good News: You May Be Richer Than You Think Undo This was with the introduction of Abu Dhabi Law No. 14/2021 on Personal Status for Non-Muslim Foreigners, a legislative move subsequently reinforced by Resolution No. (8) of 2022. Together, these established a clear and robust legal framework specifically for civil marriages. This groundbreaking legislative change allowed non-Muslim couples, predominantly expatriates residing in the UAE, to enter into marriage under a civil contract, operating independently of traditional religious laws. Tyne Hugo, a Senior Associate from the prominent law firm BSA, elaborated on the profound implications of this legal evolution for prenuptial agreements, as reported by Khaleej Times. "As the ceremony is civilly based, it effectively allows for prenuptial agreements to be signed before marriage," explained Hugo. She further clarified the significant new opportunities this presented, stating, "Couples now have the opportunity to tailor their financial arrangements from the outset, something that was previously unavailable or legally ambiguous. " Considering the UAE's diverse demographic, which includes millions of expatriates from various cultural backgrounds, officials have increasingly focused on fostering an environment where the country feels like a long-term home rather than merely a transient stopover. This strategic approach aligns with the growing acceptance of prenups. As Tyne Hugo further conveyed to Khaleej Times, "To attract foreigners, the UAE must cater to their cultural norms, and in the West, prenups are not only common but expected. " This underscores the UAE's commitment to adapting its legal framework to better serve its multinational populace. Learning from Experience: Fostering Clarity and Reducing Conflict While a prenuptial agreement cannot guarantee the success or longevity of a marriage, legal professionals widely acknowledge its powerful utility in reducing both the emotional and legal fallout should a union fail. BSA, the law firm, shared insights from their experience, including a recent divorce case where, despite the absence of a prenup, the couple successfully managed to negotiate an amicable financial agreement. However, as Tyne Hugo pointed out in the Khaleej Times report, this ideal scenario is not always the case. "That's not always the case," she stated, adding a vivid illustration: "We've seen divorces where couples fought over everything, including the cutlery. These kinds of disputes are often more about emotions than assets." This stark comparison highlights the potential for contentious battles in the absence of clear pre-agreed terms. Conversely, couples who have proactively signed prenuptial agreements typically report experiencing significantly less conflict and achieve faster resolutions when facing marital dissolution. "There's clarity," Tyne Hugo confirmed to Khaleej Times, emphasizing, "and that clarity helps prevent unnecessary legal battles." This benefit is echoed in personal experiences, such as that of Maha A., a Lebanese designer who married in the previous year. She recounted her initial reaction to her fiancé's suggestion of a prenup, telling Khaleej Times, "I was surprised when my fiancé suggested a prenup. At first, I felt hurt." However, her perspective quickly shifted: "But he explained it wasn't about preparing for divorce, it was about protecting each other. We both have separate assets and wanted to keep things clear. In the end, it actually made me feel more secure." Maha also revealed that the process itself, though not traditionally romantic, instigated vital conversations about potentially sensitive topics like spending habits, savings goals, and possible financial risks. "It wasn't romantic, but it was responsible," she wisely concluded. A Modern Tool for Financial Protection and Management Although the topic of prenuptial agreements might still be uncomfortable for some families, they are increasingly being perceived not as a threat to the sanctity of marriage but rather as a sensible means to achieve financial clarity and mutual understanding within a partnership. "Prenups don't just deal with how assets are split in case of a divorce; they can also outline how assets are managed during the marriage," Tyne Hugo explained to Khaleej Times. She detailed the expansive scope of these agreements, noting that "Partners can decide whether to have joint or separate estates and shield themselves from each other's financial liabilities." This protective aspect is crucial: "If one person goes into debt, the other can ensure their assets are protected from creditors," she further highlighted. This demonstrates how prenups serve as a vital tool for safeguarding individual financial interests within the marital union. Custom-Fit Agreements: Bridging Cultural Divides Cultural differences undeniably continue to influence how prenuptial agreements are viewed and accepted. In more traditional or conservative families, the very notion of signing a legal document before marriage can be perceived as an admission of doubt or a sign of distrust in the relationship. "Some cultures may see this as a betrayal of what a marriage is supposed to be," Tyne Hugo acknowledged in her comments to Khaleej Times. Nevertheless, she underscored the remarkable adaptability of prenups: "But the beauty of a prenup is that it's entirely customisable. It can reflect any cultural or religious values the couple deems important." This flexibility allows the agreement to be tailored to respect and incorporate various deeply held beliefs and practices. Despite traditional reservations, younger couples, particularly those from dual-nationality backgrounds or who have been raised in more globalized environments, are increasingly viewing prenups in a progressive light. This evolving perspective is indicative of a broader shift in societal attitudes towards financial planning within marriage. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Rania F., a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Dubai, confirmed this trend, that "Couples are beginning to realise that love and legal planning are not mutually exclusive." She offered a nuanced perspective on the purpose of such agreements: "A prenup doesn't mean you expect a divorce, it just means you're mature enough to talk about money, expectations, and personal boundaries before problems arise. " Rania F. also noted that a growing number of her clients are actively inquiring about prenups during premarital counseling sessions. This is particularly prevalent in situations where one partner owns a business, has children from a previous marriage, or carries significant debt, where the need for clear financial boundaries and protections becomes even more apparent.
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Exodus of ultra-wealthy from UK triggers fine wine boom in Dubai
An exodus of wealthy Britons to the Middle East has triggered a boom in Dubai's fine wine market, Bonhams has said. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has benefited from a rapid influx of rich Westerners in recent years, bringing with them their demand for expensive drinks – despite tight rules on consuming alcohol in the region. Amayès Aouli, head of wine and spirits at Bonhams, said: 'Dubai and the wider Middle East are rapidly becoming important players in the global fine wine ecosystem – not simply in terms of bulk consumption, but as centres for high-value storage, investment, and private collecting.' Soaring taxes have been blamed for accelerating an exodus of the ultra-rich from Britain, as well as Rachel Reeves's recent clampdown on non-dom residents that stripped thousands of UK residents of tax benefits. Among those to have left are the billionaire property investor brothers Ian and Richard Livingstone, who moved their official residence to Monaco, and Goldman Sachs banker Richard Gnodde, who relocated to Milan. The billionaire media mogul Richard Desmond, meanwhile, secured a 'golden visa' for Dubai last year. The Adam Smith Institute has suggested Ms Reeves's crackdown could cost Britain upwards of £10bn per year as the decline of billionaires drags on the Treasury's revenues. The UK was expected to lose almost 10,000 millionaires in 2024, while the UAE was expected to gain almost 7,000, according to the private wealth firm Henley & Partners. Inquiries about moving abroad from the UK jumped by 183pc in the first three months of 2025, the firm has also estimated. Dubai, conversely, has become increasingly appealing to the wealthy because it does not charge income tax. Mr Aouli added: 'This influx brings with it an appetite for global luxury, including fine wine, whether for personal enjoyment, entertaining, hospitality or long-term investment.' Sales of alcohol in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman have nearly doubled in value since the pandemic and are on course to reach more than $1bn (£742m) in 2025, according to industry experts at IWSR. The UAE is also a hub for duty-free sales of wine and spirits, which were just shy of $600m (£446m) last year. Cru Wines, a London-headquartered fine wine and spirits firm, recently opened an outpost in Dubai to cater to its expat community. Gregory Swartberg, the company's chief executive, said: 'Huge numbers have come over and they obviously want to get together to drink nice wines. It's a lot of non-doms, who obviously do not qualify [for some UK tax benefits] any more.' The company does not retail wines direct to customers in the UAE, but works with clients to manage their collections and source wines for them. Only two companies are officially allowed to distribute alcohol. Alcohol consumption is legal in the UAE, which is governed under Sharia law, but is heavily regulated. Non-Muslim residents over the age of 21 are allowed to drink in their homes, but they have to apply for a licence to be able to do so. Alcohol can be sold in licensed restaurants, bars and hotels – but drinking in public is strictly prohibited and can result in severe fines and even imprisonment. Mr Aouli said: 'Licensing procedures, restrictions on marketing, and cultural sensitivities mean that success here requires patience, local relationships, and absolute regulatory compliance.' However, while demand is growing, Dubai this year reimposed a 30pc import tariff on alcohol that had previously been suspended for two years – raising the prospect of higher prices for consumers. Mr Swartberg said: 'I think people from London are a little bit annoyed at the prices of wines in restaurants here. That's definitely a strong negative.' Last week, officials in Saudi Arabia were forced to deny that the Kingdom was planning to lift a 73-year ban on sales of alcohol, after reports emerged suggesting that it would do so to boost tourism ahead of the 2034 World Cup. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Exodus of ultra-wealthy from UK triggers fine wine boom in Dubai
An exodus of wealthy Britons to the Middle East has triggered a boom in Dubai's fine wine market, Bonhams has said. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has benefited from a rapid influx of rich Westerners in recent years, bringing with them their demand for expensive drinks – despite tight rules on consuming alcohol in the region. Amayès Aouli, head of wine and spirits at Bonhams, said: 'Dubai and the wider Middle East are rapidly becoming important players in the global fine wine ecosystem – not simply in terms of bulk consumption, but as centres for high-value storage, investment, and private collecting.' Soaring taxes have been blamed for accelerating an exodus of the ultra-rich from Britain, as well as Rachel Reeves's recent clampdown on non-dom residents that stripped thousands of UK residents of tax benefits. Among those to have left are the billionaire property investor brothers Ian and Richard Livingstone, who moved their official residence to Monaco, and Goldman Sachs banker Richard Gnodde, who relocated to Milan. The billionaire media mogul Richard Desmond, meanwhile, secured a 'golden visa' for Dubai last year. The Adam Smith Institute has suggested Ms Reeves's crackdown could cost Britain upwards of £10bn per year as the decline of billionaires drags on the Treasury's revenues. The UK was expected to lose almost 10,000 millionaires in 2024, while the UAE was expected to gain almost 7,000, according to the private wealth firm Henley & Partners. Inquiries about moving abroad from the UK jumped by 183pc in the first three months of 2025, the firm has also estimated. Dubai, conversely, has become increasingly appealing to the wealthy because it does not charge income tax. Mr Aouli added: 'This influx brings with it an appetite for global luxury, including fine wine, whether for personal enjoyment, entertaining, hospitality or long-term investment.' Sales of alcohol in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman have nearly doubled in value since the pandemic and are on course to reach more than $1bn (£742m) in 2025, according to industry experts at IWSR. The UAE is also a hub for duty-free sales of wine and spirits, which were just shy of $600m (£446m) last year. Cru Wines, a London-headquartered fine wine and spirits firm, recently opened an outpost in Dubai to cater to its expat community. Gregory Swartberg, the company's chief executive, said: 'Huge numbers have come over and they obviously want to get together to drink nice wines. It's a lot of non-doms, who obviously do not qualify [for some UK tax benefits] any more.' The company does not retail wines direct to customers in the UAE, but works with clients to manage their collections and source wines for them. Only two companies are officially allowed to distribute alcohol. Alcohol consumption is legal in the UAE, which is governed under Sharia law, but is heavily regulated. Non-Muslim residents over the age of 21 are allowed to drink in their homes, but they have to apply for a licence to be able to do so. Alcohol can be sold in licensed restaurants, bars and hotels – but drinking in public is strictly prohibited and can result in severe fines and even imprisonment. Mr Aouli said: 'Licensing procedures, restrictions on marketing, and cultural sensitivities mean that success here requires patience, local relationships, and absolute regulatory compliance.' However, while demand is growing, Dubai this year reimposed a 30pc import tariff on alcohol that had previously been suspended for two years – raising the prospect of higher prices for consumers. Mr Swartberg said: 'I think people from London are a little bit annoyed at the prices of wines in restaurants here. That's definitely a strong negative.' Last week, officials in Saudi Arabia were forced to deny that the Kingdom was planning to lift a 73-year ban on sales of alcohol, after reports emerged suggesting that it would do so to boost tourism ahead of the 2034 World Cup.
