Latest news with #Raji
Ya Libnan
10 hours ago
- Politics
- Ya Libnan
Lebanon FM tells Hezbollah : No going back on monopoly of arms by the state
Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajai affirmed that 'the monopolizing the arms by the state is a historic decision by the government, and we have asked US envoy Tom Barrack to take a corresponding Israeli step.' Raji said : 'We have gone through decades of occupation and domination by factions that have no connection to Lebanon,' adding, 'There is no going back regarding the monopoly of arms decision.' Raji confirmed that 'the army will present its plan for disarming Hezbollah in September, and may request an additional two weeks to present its final plan.' Commenting on the visit of an Iranian official he said: 'I did not meet with Iranian official Ali Larijani because of his leaders' attacks on Lebanon, and I do not accept Iran arming a party outside the state.' Raji revealed that 'we have repeatedly informed the Iranians of our rejection of interference in our affairs. We have no problem in expressing their opinion, but we reject their of the rebellion against the state.' Raji emphasized that 'the Shiite sect is a hostage of Hezbollah, which exploits it, and whoever speaks of a civil war has the intention of igniting it.' He was referring to a recent speech by Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem who threatened to ignite a civil war in Lebanon if the. army disarms it The Shiites of Lebanon suffered the most in Hezbollah's wars with Israel . Lebanon is currently seeking to establish state control over all arms, but does not yet have a monopoly, due to the presence of non-state actors like Hezbollah whose allegiance is to Iran. Since 1982 Iran has been funding , training and arming Hezbollah for the purpose of increasing its influence in the region. In 2008 Hezbollah pointed its arms against the Lebanese people and there is a great concern , it may do it again
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
The aunt who didn't let her cheer, positivity fade
That June morning, during the cremation of Shaminder Kaur, one of my loving aunts from Bhakna, a border village of Amritsar, the air was scented not only with sadness but also with praises of her. Most mourners remembered her for her positivity, a quality she exuded despite the odds as she had been facing an array of health issues. A sudden heart failure took her life. Her positive outlook was a magnet for many as whenever I visited her there was always someone who had come to see her, from neighbours and relatives to even former colleagues. (HT File) She was in her mid-sixties and had retired as a government school teacher. She had been bedridden for nearly a decade after she along with her husband met with a car accident. While uncle recovered, she couldn't, mainly because she suffered several fractures. Being bedridden brought more health problems from poor heart health to diabetes. Over the last few years, she had visited several hospitals for surgeries and other health complications but surprisingly whenever someone met her, her joyful attitude was in place. She would narrate her hospital stays with a smiling face, as if she was not back from a hospital but from a refreshing break at a resort in the mountains. However complicated the surgery, the cheer on her face never faded. She would go on appreciating the nurses, the meals she savoured and even the spacious room. Many were surprised to see she survived a hospital visit during the coronavirus period. I remember how she shared her Covid treatment. 'I stayed there a little over a week. Every day, people were dying around me, but I kept telling myself I'll be fine. I stayed strong and eventually returned home and am talking to you,' she said in her usual calm voice. Her positive outlook was a magnet for many as whenever I visited her there was always someone who had come to see her, from neighbours and relatives to even former colleagues. During my long cycling trips in the region, her home was my favourite stop. Meeting her melted away my tiredness and energised me as she never complained about her aches and pains nor rolled out any list of complaints. Instead, she counted her blessings, from her loving husband and caring daughters to her full-time help, Raji, who was no less than a daughter for her. If she recalled something, it would be simple gestures that had bathed her in happiness. I may have brought her dal from the langar of a gurdwara only once but she kept sharing this gesture with many. She liked talking about her village and the neighbourhood. 'You should love the place you live in,' was one of her mantras. Just a year ago, the TV screen facing her bed was fitted with live cameras which showed different parts of her home and the street in front. I loved it when she enjoyed introducing me to the many characters of her village as they passed – absolutely so entertaining. But the day she passed away, the camera displays were packed with mourners. One of them showed the veranda where her body was kept, just outside her room, where many of us often enjoyed her company. The uncertainty and fragility of life got me emotional. I had plans to visit her over the weekend, but decided to postpone it, little knowing that next Sunday she won't be there anymore. She may have departed forever but her inspiring attitude lives on in the hearts of many. She lived by the belief: Whatever the odds, stay high-spirited. It's one of the essential ingredients for a happy life. But Bhakna visits will never be the way they used to be. The writer is an Amritsar-based freelance contributor
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Indian Express
Man in Delhi seeks help from friends to recover loan from brother-in-law, both killed
When Raji Ahmed asked his friends on August 10 to help him recover a sum of money that he had lent to his brother-in-law Shami Alam, little did he know what awaited him. In a span of two days, both Raji and Shami were found dead in different areas in Northeast Delhi, police said. The two had partied with four friends on August 10 at Raji's rented accommodation in New Chauhanpur's Mata Vali Gali. Police on Sunday said that while two men were arrested on August 15, in connection with the case, two others were nabbed a day later. These were the same men who were with the deceased at the New Chauhanpur house on August 10. According to the police, they were informed in the wee hours of August 11 that a body was found at Gali no. 26, C-Block, Khajuri Khas. 'A police team, along with forensic experts, reached the spot and examined the crime scene. The body was sent to GTB Hospital for a post-mortem examination. He was identified as Raji Ahmed, 33, a resident of Harkesh Market,' DCP (North East) Ashish Mishra said. During the probe, with the help of CCTV footage and call detail records, police zeroed in on Vicky Tomar (24) and Asfaq (19) and a manhunt was launched. While the police were tracing the movement of the accused on the day of the murder, they ended up at a building in New Chauhanpur and stumbled upon another body on August 12. 'A decomposed body of an unidentified man was recovered from a locked kitchen on the first floor of a house in Mata Vali Gali, New Chauhanpur. It was sent to GTB Hospital and a case under BNS Section 103(1) was filed. The deceased was identified as Shami Alam, 37,' DCP Mishra said. During questioning, the two accused told the police that they had planned upon assaulting Shami as Raji had allegedly asked them to help him recover a sum of money Shami had borrowed from him. 'Raji, Shami, Vicky, Asfaq and two other men — Faizaan (22) and Masoom (25) — had gathered for a party at the said building in New Chauhanpur on Sunday. Raji had taken it on rent. After Raji left, as planned, the four men thrashed Shami, leading to his death,' DCP Mishra said. The accused were now in a bind. They locked Shami's body in the kitchen and went after Raji. Fearing that Raji might tell the police about their involvement in the murder, they killed him as well. 'During questioning, they revealed that after killing Shami, they went to Khajuri Khas and murdered Raji to cover up the crime,' the DCP said. Faizaan and Masoom were arrested based on inputs given by Vicky and Asfaq.
NDTV
10-08-2025
- Lifestyle
- NDTV
I Attended Chef Raji Gupta's Supper Club In Mumbai And Enjoyed Soulful Karnataka Food
Supper clubs are gaining momentum in different cities across India. In Mumbai, passionate home cooks, professionally trained chefs, as well as other culinary enthusiasts, have been hosting a wide range of supper clubs. I had the chance to attend one such event recently: the Oota Supperclub, helmed by Chef Raji Gupta (@the_supper_club_mumbai). It sought to spotlight Karnataka food as a specific South Indian regional cuisine. The invitation promised an intimate sit-down dinner with a focus on storytelling and family recipes celebrating seasonal ingredients. I was curious to experience it first-hand. On the designated evening, I travelled to the supper club's Lokhandwala location, which was later revealed to be Chef Raji's former home. The set-up was cosy and comfortable. It was designed to encourage mingling. I struck up conversations with several of the other attendees, some of whom were part of the media industry and some who weren't. Although it could be initially daunting to some, having a mixed crowd to chat with proved to be a refreshing experience. As the evening progressed, we even managed to have inside jokes. After all, what connected us was a shared love for food, which can be quite a strong bond. Once we took our seats at the table, we found bowls of homemade banana chips waiting for us. As we introduced ourselves to our dining companions at the same table, we relished these mildly spiced treats enhanced with podi and garlic cloves. The exchange of names and small talk soon gave way to murmurs of appreciation for the chips: unlike classic storebought versions, they were extra thin and delicately crisp. We paired them with sips of fresh coconut water from earthen glasses. It was a simple, wholesome start to the meal - and it immediately put us at ease. Chef Raji Gupta introduced each course to us personally, offering insights into the ingredients as well as her own anecdotes. Chef Raji has drawn on her years of experience as a chef, a culinary consultant and a home dining expert to curate this supper club. She underwent culinary training in Ireland, Thailand and Mumbai. Formerly executive editor at BBC Good Food India, she is currently the founder of Beyond Dining Co. During our event, Chef Raji ensured a warm and hospitable ambience for all. Dining with strangers can be an alienating experience, but we managed to enjoy ourselves. The only appetiser on the menu was Kori Rotti. As I had opted for non-veg, I received a plate of dry curried chicken alongside crisp rice wafers. It was wonderfully spicy in the best way - those who prefer fiery foods for comfort are familiar with this sensation. The vegetarians enjoyed a similar plate where jackfruit replaced the chicken. After hearing their hearty compliments, we requested the chef for an extra portion of it for the table, and she kindly obliged. The jackfruit version was even more impressive. It had a distinctive texture that elevated the whole dish. We couldn't stop ourselves from reaching for seconds. Rasam arrived next as a palate cleanser. Rather than being served in bowls or glasses, it was filled into a small crisp puri (similar to those used for pani puri). We popped the whole sphere into our mouths and savoured the taste of the cool, aromatic broth. It was such a hit that we clamoured for more pieces - and again, Chef happily provided extra. The main course was in the form of a pre-plated Yele Oota: Karnataka's version of the classic South Indian meal usually served on a banana leaf. It contained rustic delicacies prepared in a light and simple manner - similar to temple-style meals. Our plates featured red rice, sambar, a dry vegetable preparation, a beetroot side dish, jackfruit chips, papad, pickle and a banana. This was my favourite course of the evening. It felt like the definition of soul food. Every element was yummy and nourishing. The freshness of the ingredients, the absence of excess oil and the humble plating reminded us of the charms of good home-cooked food over restaurant orders. Dessert was equally soulful: fresh lychee and jackfruit swimming in a pool of coconut milk. The milk was lightly yet deftly sweetened with a bit of jaggery. It was cool, silky and smooth - the perfect ending to our evening. We left having made new friends and delicious memories. As city folk, we appreciated how the event gave us the chance to slow down, relish food without fuss and connect with people while keeping our phones aside. If this is what most supper clubs have to offer, we can't wait to attend more such meals! (The Oota Supperclub is one among many types of events hosted by Chef Raj Gupta of The Supper Club Mumbai. Others may have different menus and different approaches.)
Western Telegraph
07-08-2025
- Western Telegraph
Pembrokeshire drug dealers sold cocaine and tried to get gun
Harrison Billing, Danhiellen Raji, and John Phillips appeared at Swansea Crown Court charged with a series of drug and weapon offences. Prosecutor Ashanti-Jade Walton said police stopped a Nissan Juke heading into Pembrokeshire on February 12 after receiving intelligence it was carrying drugs. Officers found 253 grams of cocaine in a container in the footwell by Billing – valued at £20,540, and a 'large knife' was on the Raji's seat. Ms Walton said Billing also had business cards on him which listed a phone number, drug weights and prices, and read: 'Thank you for supporting our small business. We do appreciate it'. For the latest crime and court news for west Wales, you can join our Facebook group here. Drug-related messages were found on Billing's phone – including directing drug runners and bidding '£40,000 up front' for cocaine from a contact named 'A'. Raji's phone also had drug-related messages and a picture of himself holding a large amount of money. Both Billing and Raji also exchanged messages about acquiring a firearm. Billing messaged a contact saying he 'was trying to get a toy' – meaning a gun – and offering £1,000 extra if he could supply the 'toy' quickly. When Phillips' address was searched, officers found a quantity of cannabis. Harrison Billing was caught with large amounts of cocaine twice within a few months. (Image: Dyfed-Powys Police) Billing was further charged with offences relating to a separate incident on December 27. Police pursued Billing's Mercedes at around 10.50pm in Milford Haven after he flew over a junction at high speed. He was doing 70mph in a 30mph limit, but was arrested after he crashed into a wall and railings on the corner of Hamilton Terrace and Francis Street. Upon searching the car, officers found around 70 grams of high purity cocaine – worth around £4,250 – and £925.31 in cash, along with four mobile phones. His co-defendant Dylan Brown, 20, of Chestnut Way in Milford Haven, was sentenced to 18 months detention in April after he admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine, possession of criminal property, and being involved in the supply of cocaine and cannabis on the basis that he was acting under the direction of Billing. Dylan Brown was been jailed for dealing cocaine under the direction of Harrison Billing. (Image: Dyfed-Powys Police) Billing's phone included drug-related messages and pictures of large amounts of cash and white powder. He also sent Brown messages including: 'I ain't a d***head. I will make you good money' and 'You need to be serious about this s*** because you're losing me money'. Both Billing and Raji pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply cocaine, and conspiring to possess a firearm. Billing, now 19, of Jury Lane in Haverfordwest, also admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply cocaine, dangerous driving, possession of criminal property and driving with no insurance. Dyfed Thomas, for Billing, said: 'He wishes the court to know there is a genuine remorse for the position he's put himself in. 'He wants an opportunity to show he's not this person.' He said Billing had 'witnessed things that no child should witness' growing up, and had spend his early teenage years in the care system. 19-year-old Raji, of no fixed abode, further admitted possession of a knife. He had nine previous convictions for 18 offences – including for purchasing a prohibited weapon and possession of an offensive weapon. Danhiellen Raji was caught with a large knife when pulled over by police. (Image: Dyfed-Powys Police) Ian Ibrahim, in mitigation, said Raji had 'a very very difficult start in life' as he had been in care since he was kicked out of his home at 13 and had since been through 'over 20 care homes'. Mr Ibrahim said Raji had experienced friends being stabbed which 'goes some way to explain' his weapons charges, although he acknowledged 'it's no excuse'. Phillips, 37, of Pen Puffin in Steynton, admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis possession. Ryan Bowen, appearing for Phillips, said the defendant admitted the cocaine charge on the basis he was being used by his co-defendants. He said Phillips didn't expect to make a financial gain, and his co-defendants took advantage of him due to his neurodiversity and 'deficits in consequential thinking'. Addressing Billing and Raji, Judge Huw Rees said: 'If you think that playing the big man in supplying Class A drugs is the answer then you are very much mistaken.' He sentenced Billing to four years and two months detention, whilst Raji was sentenced to three years and nine months detention. Phillips was sentenced to 18 months, suspended for 18 months. He must complete 180 hours of unpaid work and 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days.
