Taliban slaps smartphone ban in Kandahar schools
Kabul: A ban on
smartphones in schools
issued by Taliban authorities in southern Afghanistan came into force, students and teachers confirmed to AFP on Wednesday, over concerns of "focus" and "Islamic law".
The directive by the provincial Education Department in Kandahar applies to students, teachers and administrative staff in schools and religious schools.
"This decision has been made to ensure
educational discipline
, focus", the statement said, adding that it was taken from a "
sharia perspective
" and that smartphones contribute to "the destruction of the future generation".
by Taboola
by Taboola
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The policy, which has already taken effect in schools across the province, has divided opinion among teachers and students.
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Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Raj Thackeray warns of unrest over ‘northern language' in schools, questions policy intent
MUMBAI: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has issued a stern warning to the educational institutions in the state not to support the Fadnavis government's plan to impose the language that is "spoken in some northern provinces. " Thackeray asserted that if schools' actions support the government's "hidden agenda," then MNS will consider it a "betrayal" of Maharashtra. In a letter written to all the principals of schools in Maharashtra, Raj Thackeray said, "While we are raising this issue with you, we have also sent a similar letter to the government. We have firmly told the government that we need a written letter stating that the Hindi language or any third language in general will not be taught. They may or may not issue such a letter, but if your actions support the government's hidden agenda, we will surely consider it a betrayal of Maharashtra. .." "Do keep in mind that there is growing discontent in Maharashtra regarding this imposition of languages! Word to the wise! What more can I say?" it added. Referring to recent developments in the education department, Thackeray alleged that since April, the situation in Maharashtra has been "chaotic". by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo The letter dated June 12 reads, "Since April, the education department has been in a state of chaos in Maharashtra. First, it was decided that three languages should be taught from class one in schools following the Maharashtra State Board of Education curriculum, and Marathi, English and Hindi should be made compulsory. This decision was strongly opposed by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, which formed a public opinion. .." "There is no question of making Hindi compulsory. Because Hindi is not the national language. It is a language spoken in some northern provinces, so in a sense it is a state language. In the states where it is spoken, there are many local languages, which are starting to come under the sway of Hindi and there is a fear that the local dialects there will disappear over time. Anyway, it is their decision whether they wish to let their local dialects die or not. It is of no concern to us," the letter reads. The MNS chief accused the Maharashtra government of planning to impose Hindi language in the state "discreetly" and urged the schools not to cooperate with this. He said, "But when such a compulsion was forced upon Maharashtra, we raised our voice and will continue to raise it. The government further said that only two languages will be taught from class one. But where is the written order? If one has been published, we haven't seen it yet. A government good at playing around with documents will play with this one as well. Then our question is, if the children do not want to learn a third language, then why are textbooks getting printed, as noticed by my Maharashtra Sainiks. This means that the government is planning to impose the language discreetly. Your schools should not cooperate with this." Raj Thackeray went on to say that the people of the north want to "capture" Maharashtra and language imposition is an easy way to do that. The letter reads, "The government's effort to impose the language on children must be thwarted. This is not only damaging to the children but damaging to the Marathi language as well. The government just blindly follows orders from above, but you need not fall prey to it. And if you are forced by the government, we are here to support." "To become well educated, model citizens who can make the nation and Maharashtra proud, you need to know one state language and one world language. Why learn more of them? But we must understand the political motive behind this! The people of the north want to capture a civilized Maharashtra and the easy way to do that is to impose their language directly or indirectly. Do not fall prey to their politics," it added. In April, a row was erupted over the Maharashtra government's decision to make Hindi a compulsory third language. Is your child ready for the careers of tomorrow? Enroll now and take advantage of our early bird offer! Spaces are limited.
News18
an hour ago
- News18
Imam Khomeinei Road, Students In Qom & Tehran: Karnataka Town Alipur's Connection With Iran
With nearly 25,000 residents, this town has about 90 per cent of the population who belong to the Shia Muslim community - which is also the dominant community in Iran. Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, and with several Indian nationals still stranded in Iran, a quaint little town on the outskirts of Bengaluru has found itself in focus. Among the many Indian students currently in Iran are some from Alipur, just 70 km away from Bengaluru in Karnataka's Gauribidanur constituency. Alipur's links with the Middle East go beyond education and faith. The town has a thriving gems and jewellery business connected to Dubai, Iran, and Thailand. With nearly 25,000 residents, this town has about 90 per cent of the population who belong to the Shia Muslim community – which is also the dominant community in Iran. 'Most of the people in Alipur deal with precious gems and jewellery. Many have businesses in the Middle East, especially in Iran. So the connection is deep-rooted — economic as well as spiritual. Iran is the place for higher studies when it comes to Islamic studies and theology — not just for Indians, but globally," said Syed Hakim Raza, President of the India‑Iran Chamber of Commerce. Historically, the town's Shia legacy runs deep. In the 18th century, Alipur was known as Belligunta and was predominantly inhabited by Shia Muslims. It was later renamed Alipur — with 'Ali" referring to Imam Ali and 'pur" meaning 'city". The name, which translates to 'City of Ali," reflects the town's religious and cultural roots within the Shia tradition. The spiritual influence of Iran is also marked on its streets — the main road in Alipur is named Imam Khomeini Road, in memory of the Iranian Supreme Leader's visit to Alipur during his India trip in 1981. What also sets Alipur apart is its distinctive self-governance. The town does not have a police station within its limits. Instead, a supreme body called Anjuman-e-Jafria resolves issues according to the by-laws founded by the patrons of Alipur in 1930. This 30-member body serves as the highest authority for resolving community issues — from family disputes and marriage problems to financial matters. 'Out of 100, we resolve 99 issues within the Anjuman-e-Jafria itself. Be it a property dispute, marital issue, or any matter that requires guidance and resolution," said Mir Ali Abbas, President of the body, to News18. The council, elected every two years, includes a president and secretary with members handling different departments in the town. Its by-laws, written by the late Mir Musthaq Ali — a respected Islamic scholar and poet — are based on both Islamic principles and the Indian Constitution, and continue to guide Alipur's functioning to this day. 'Even if a police complaint is filed in a neighbouring station, the Anjuman-e-Jafria is first asked whether it would like to reconcile the issue," said a senior leader from Alipur. Along with Shia Muslims, Alipur also has a population of Hindus, Christians, and smaller Muslim sects, all of whom live peacefully and 'are bound by mutual respect for each other's religious beliefs," said a local leader. Alipur Students In Iran Many families, scholars, and students from Alipur regularly travel to Iran for Islamic theological studies in cities like Qom and Mashhad, while others enrol in its top-ranked medical universities. Iran's medical colleges — including Shahid Beheshti University, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), and Arak University of Medical Sciences — are among the world's top 400, making them an attractive destination for Indian students seeking affordable education. 'A course in MBBS costs anywhere between $4,000 to $6,000 compared to other countries. If a student scores above 80–90 per cent in their 12th exams, they can get into a top Tehran university at an affordable price. That's why we see a large number of students heading to these universities. It's an economical way for children to pursue the course of their dreams," explained Syed Hakim Raza. One such student is Syed Mohammed Taqim, the son of a fancy store owner in Alipur. His father, Mir Raza Agha, told News18 that his son, who is studying at the Tehran Institute of Medical Sciences, was among nearly 500 students moved to Qom for safety after shelling began. 'My son wants to become a paediatrician. He will be the first doctor in our family. I run a small fancy store in Alipur and don't have much money. I've somehow managed to send him there to complete his medicine," Agha said, hoping to hear that his son has boarded a flight to return to India. 'When he comes back, we'll take a call if he wants to continue his studies. He had written five exams and had another ten to go before returning to India for holidays in July. My son went there two years ago to pursue his passion for becoming a doctor," he added. Agha is one of 19 families in Alipur who have children studying medicine in Iranian universities. Indian authorities, along with the Indian Embassy in Tehran and state officials in Karnataka, are closely monitoring the situation and working to ensure the safe return of students. BJP MP from Chikkaballapur, K Sudhakar, told News18 that he is in constant touch with the MEA and embassy to ensure the students' safety. 'I will be personally speaking to the students on a phone call once they are available to connect. The network connectivity is very patchy and we are yet to get them to a place where they can be brought back home safely. Our Indian government has been successful in bringing back people from such trying circumstances earlier, and we know it will happen again. Safety is the top priority and the government is doing all that it can to bring back all stranded Indians," he said. 'The Indian Embassy has been in touch and has helped relocate many of them from Tehran to Qom and Mashhad, and will bring them back safely via Turkmenistan or Armenia," added Syed Hakim Raza. Another parent of a young student who did not wish to be named said their daughter left in 2024 to study dentistry along with 12 others. 'We have been getting regular updates and communication on the safe passage of our child. The Indian embassy has been very helpful and the NRI cell from the Congress government also got in touch with us to help track their movements. We are hopeful they will be back home safely and soon," said the father of the medical student. Islamic religious studies continue to be a big draw for students from Alipur. Nearly 50 students are pursuing religious education in Qom. Over 30 families from the town are also involved in business activities in Tehran, Qom, and Mashhad. 'In India, Islamic studies are basic. Many go to Iran to pursue further learning in Ismaili theology," explained residents of Alipur. Mannan Raza, a businessman who recently relocated from Tehran to Qom, told News18 that while they plan to stay put, they are helping facilitate the safe transfer of students back to India. 'We are coordinating efforts with embassy officials to move students to safer places. Life is normal in areas like Qom and Mashhad. There is no shelling here," he said. A young student pursuing MBBS at Golestan University of Medical Sciences in Gorgan, Iran, said the tension in the region is pushing them to return home. 'We were to return home in July. Now we are only waiting for Indian authorities to give us directions and take us home," she said, requesting anonymity. top videos View all Now, as students wait to be brought home and families pray for their safe return, this quiet village continues to hold its breath — caught between its historic ties to Iran and the hope for peace and safe passage. 'We all want ceasefire and peace there. We would like to return and complete our education," said a young MBBS student who is among those being shifted to Mashhad and moved towards Armenia to be brought back safely to her family in India. About the Author Rohini Swamy Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18's digital platform. She has previously worked with More Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : iran Israel-Iran tensions karnataka Shia Muslims Location : Bengaluru, India, India First Published: June 19, 2025, 10:18 IST News india Imam Khomeinei Road, Students In Qom & Tehran: Karnataka Town Alipur's Connection With Iran
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
"Situation in Iran bad": Students arriving in Delhi say Indian Govt picked them up from their doorsteps
Arriving in New Delhi from the conflict zone in Iran under India's Operation Sindhu , Indian students expressed their gratitude to the Central government for evacuating them directly from their doorstep. They described the situation in Iran as "bad", noting that people there are extremely "scared". An Indian student, Sheikh Afsa, on board the flight carrying 110 nationals under Operation Sindhu, praised the government's efforts to ensure a safe evacuation upon returning to Delhi, saying that the government evacuated them 'from their doors'. "We are happy to return here, but we are also worried about our studies. The situation there (Iran) is bad, and people are scared. We even received calls from people in Iran, who said the situation in Iran is very critical. The (Indian) government literally evacuated us from our dormitory, from our doors; we didn't even expect this much. They helped us at every step; no one faced any problem, and we are grateful to the central government for the role they played in evacuating us," she told ANI. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Container Houses Thailand (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search ads Search Now Undo The Indian government has launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran in view of the deteriorating situation as a result of the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Another evacuated student expressed his gratitude to the Indian government, saying that he was safely back home because of their efforts. Live Events You Might Also Like: Flight carrying over 100 Indian students, evacuated to Armenia from war-torn Iran, lands in Delhi "I am happy that I am back in our country. We didn't see any such thing in Urmia, but in other places across Iran, the situation was bad... The Government of India helped a lot; that is why we are back home," he stated. Describing the situation as "critical", another Indian student urged the Indian Embassy in Iran to rescue fellow Indians still stranded in Tehran and Isfahan: "...We thank the Indian Embassy for evacuating us at the right time, but we have one more appeal: that all of our brothers and sisters who are stranded in Isfahan and Tehran be evacuated as soon as possible, as the situation is so critical there." A girl from Jammu and Kashmir, currently in her fourth year of studies in Iran, expressed hope that the war would end soon so she could return and complete her education. She described the entire evacuation process as "smooth", noting that they did not face any challenges. She also urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to facilitate their early return home. You Might Also Like: India launches Operation Sindhu to evacuate citizens from Iran amid its escalating conflict with Israel "We are sad as we have to leave our studies... We are happy, as we didn't expect that we would be back; such is the condition there (in Iran)... I hope the war will end soon, as our studies will also be completed, and Iran won't have to suffer too much. I am very thankful to the Indian government for the way they evacuated us; it was smooth. We faced no issues till now. But we have come to know that buses are being arranged for the students of Kashmir from here. I think after travelling to 3 countries, we are not ready to travel by bus. I request our CM (of J&K) to facilitate us so that we can meet our parents as soon as possible," she said. Earlier, in a post on X, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote, "India launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran. India evacuated 110 students from northern Iran, who crossed into Armenia under the supervision of our Missions in Iran and Armenia on 17th June. They departed from Yerevan on a special flight and will arrive in New Delhi in the early hours of 19th June 2025. India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of her nationals abroad."
