Latest news with #sensitivities
Hans India
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Kamal Haasan Stands Firm On Language Comments Despite Karnataka Film Ban And Political Backlash
Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan has firmly rejected calls for a public apology regarding his controversial statements about the Kannada language's origins, declaring he will only express regret if proven factually incorrect. The 70-year-old actor's stance has intensified a linguistic controversy that has drawn political leaders, cultural organizations, and film industry figures into a heated debate across South India. Speaking exclusively to media outlets, Haasan emphasized his commitment to democratic principles and personal integrity, stating that interference with his beliefs would not be tolerated. He stressed his faith in India's democratic framework and judicial system while dismissing threats against him as nothing new in his decades-long career. The dispute began during a promotional event for Haasan's upcoming film "Thug Life," where he made remarks that have since sparked widespread outrage in Karnataka. During his speech, which began with the Tamil phrase "Uyire Urave Tamizhe" (meaning "My life and my family is Tamil"), Haasan suggested that the Kannada language originated from Tamil. The actor was addressing the presence of Karnataka actor Shivarajkumar at the event, explaining their professional relationship within the context of South Indian cinema. However, his specific claim about Kannada's linguistic origins proved inflammatory, triggering immediate backlash from pro-Kannada groups and political figures. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce has taken decisive action by implementing a complete ban on the release of "Thug Life" throughout the state. This decision followed an ultimatum demanding Haasan issue a public apology, which he has categorically refused to provide. The ban represents a significant economic and professional consequence for the actor, potentially affecting the film's commercial performance and his future projects in the Karnataka market. The Chamber's action demonstrates the serious nature of the linguistic sensitivities involved in this controversy. Political leaders from both major parties in Karnataka have condemned Haasan's remarks, though with varying degrees of intensity. The ruling Congress party suggested that the actor lacks awareness about Kannada's historical significance and cultural importance to the region. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded by emphasizing Kannada's extensive historical legacy, suggesting that Haasan's comments reflected ignorance rather than malicious intent. The Chief Minister's measured response contrasts with more aggressive demands from other political quarters. The opposition BJP has taken a stronger stance, demanding an immediate apology and characterizing Haasan's comments as disrespectful to the Kannada language and its speakers. State Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi has been particularly vocal, arguing that such statements hurt the sentiments of all Kannadigas regardless of the speaker's stature or reputation. In contrast to the Karnataka backlash, the Tamil film industry has rallied behind Haasan, with several prominent actors defending his position. Actresses Divya Spandana and Vinodhini Vaidyanathan have publicly supported him, contextualizing the controversy within broader discussions about Dravidian language families. These supporters argue that all South Indian languages share common Dravidian roots, suggesting that discussions about linguistic evolution should be viewed from an academic rather than emotional perspective. They have characterized the controversy as an unnecessary escalation of what should be scholarly discourse. The controversy highlights ongoing sensitivities surrounding language identity in South India, where linguistic pride often intersects with regional political movements. Karnataka's strong Kannada identity movement has historically been protective of the language's distinct cultural and literary heritage. Haasan's comments touch on complex questions of linguistic evolution and historical relationships between Dravidian languages, topics that require careful scholarly treatment rather than casual public commentary. The intense reaction demonstrates how quickly academic discussions can become politically charged in India's multilingual landscape. The controversy comes at a significant time in Haasan's political career, as he is reportedly set to be nominated as the DMK's candidate for the Rajya Sabha. His political party, Makkal Needhi Maiam, maintains an alliance with the DMK, which could influence how this controversy affects his broader political aspirations. The incident may impact his political standing both within Tamil Nadu, where he enjoys support, and in his efforts to build cross-regional political alliances. His handling of this controversy could set precedents for how he manages similar sensitive issues in his political career. The standoff between Haasan and his critics appears likely to continue, with neither side showing signs of compromise. The film ban in Karnataka represents a concrete consequence that may influence how other states and industry bodies respond to similar controversies. This incident may also prompt broader discussions within the South Indian film industry about the intersection of entertainment, politics, and cultural sensitivity, particularly as regional cinema continues to expand its pan-Indian reach.
LeMonde
7 days ago
- Health
- LeMonde
French lawmakers approve assisted dying bill
France's Assemblée Nationale adopted a bill on Tuesday, May 27, to allow adults with incurable illness to take lethal medication, the initial step in a lengthy process that could grant patients medical assistance to end their lives in clearly defined circumstances. The bill received 305 votes in favor and 199 against, after all parties in parliament allowed their lawmakers a free vote on the issue. It will now be sent to the Sénat for further debate. A definitive vote on the measure could take months to be scheduled. In parallel, another bill on palliative care, meant to reinforce measures to relieve pain and preserve patients' dignity, was also adopted on Tuesday, unanimously. "I'm thinking of all the patients and their loved ones. There are days, you know, you will never forget. I will never forget this day," said Olivier Falorni, the general rapporteur of the bill, amid applause from fellow lawmakers. "The Assemblée Nationale's vote on legislation concerning the development of palliative care and assisted dying is an important step," President Emmanuel Macron said, on X, after the vote, adding: "With respect for sensitivities, doubts and hopes, the path of fraternity that I hoped for is gradually opening up." Macron has insisted that any authorisation to choose death should be limited to people with incurable illnesses and intense physical or psychological pain. Strict conditions The proposed measure on lethal medication defines assisted dying as allowing people to use it under certain conditions, so that they may take it themselves. Only those whose physical condition doesn't allow them to do it alone would be able to get help from a doctor or a nurse. To benefit, patients would need to be over 18 and be French citizens or live in France. A team of medical professionals would also need to confirm that the patient has a grave and incurable illness "at an advanced or terminal stage," is suffering from intolerable and untreatable pain and is seeking lethal medication of their own free will. Patients with severe psychiatric conditions and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, wouldn't be eligible. The person would initiate the request for lethal medication and confirm the request, after a period of reflection. If approved, a doctor would deliver a prescription for the lethal medication, which could be taken at home or at a nursing home or a health care facility. Current French legislation allows passive euthanasia, such as withholding artificial life support, and since 2016 doctors have also been authorised to induce "deep and continuous sedation" for terminally ill patients in pain. Health Minister Catherine Vautrin said, over the weekend before the vote, that the "French model" of assisted dying would be "strict and closely supervised." Supported by most French citizens A 2023 report indicated that most French citizens back legalizing end-of-life options, and opinion polls show growing support over the past 20 years. Initial discussions in parliament last year were abruptly interrupted by President Emmanuel Macron's decision to dissolve the Assemblée Nationale, plunging France into a months-long political crisis. Earlier this month, Macron suggested he could ask French voters to approve the measure via referendum if parliament discussions get off track. Macron said last year that France needed legislation because "there are situations you cannot humanely accept." The goal was "to reconcile the autonomy of the individual with the solidarity of the nation," he said. Stiff opposition The bill has faced stiff opposition from religious leaders in a country with a longstanding Catholic tradition, as well as many health workers. Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, a devout Catholic, said Tuesday that he would abstain if he were a deputy because of lingering "questions." French religious leaders this month issued a joint statement to denounce the bill, warning about the "dangers" of an "anthropological rupture." The Conference of Religious Leaders in France (CRCF), which represents the Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim and Buddhist communities, said the proposed measures risk exerting pressure on older people and those with illnesses or disabilities. On the other hand, the Association for the Right to Die with Dignity (ADMD) has called on French lawmakers "to respect the French who want the same right that our Dutch, Belgian, Luxembourgian, Swiss, Spanish, Portuguese neighbors have." 'End of life' or 'aid in dying' The bill has been widely referred to as focusing on "end of life" or "aid in dying" in the French debate, rather than "assisted suicide" or "euthanasia." Medically assisted suicide involves patients taking, of their own free will, a lethal drink or medication that has been prescribed by a doctor to those who meet certain criteria. Euthanasia involves doctors or other health practitioners giving patients who meet certain criteria a lethal injection at their own request. If approved, France would join a small group of European countries that give the right to aid in dying, including Germany, Spain, Austria and Switzerland. Until now, French patients wishing to end their lives have had to travel abroad, including to neighbouring Belgium. Vautrin said she hopes that the Sénat will begin examining the issue this year, and submit its suggested changes back to the Assemblée Nationale in early 2026. "I want this bill to get a final vote by 2027 which is still possible," said the minister.
Scoop
24-05-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Budget 2025: Awesome Or Disappointing? Nelson's Leaders Divided On Hospital News
Budget 2025 has revealed some details about Nelson's long-awaited hospital rebuild, but the city's leaders don't agree on whether it's positive for residents. The Government has announced the continuation of the redevelopment of Nelson Hospital, with funding allocated over the next four years to address capacity issues, poor seismic resilience, and outdated care delivery. 'This will deliver a new inpatient building with more beds to meet population growth. The hospital's two main buildings will be refurbished, and essential services will be upgraded,' Minister of Health Simeon Brown said on Thursday. The inpatient building will have 128 beds – 41 more than current capacity – and was expected to be built by 2029, 'two years earlier than planned'. A new energy centre will also be built at the hospital to house 'critical infrastructure'. Over $1 billion for health infrastructure was included within Budget 2025, which included money for redeveloping the Wellington Emergency Department and upgrading Auckland hospitals, alongside funding for the Nelson Hospital projects. However, the specific amount allocated for the Nelson Hospital over the next four years remains unknown, with the exact figures withheld 'due to commercial sensitivities'. Brown said the $73 million design and enabling works for the new hospital buildings were 'well underway', and the $11 million emergency department expansion was expected to be completed early next year. There was no specific mention of funding for the Hope Bypass, a Road of National Significance whose investment case will be presented to the NZTA board in the coming months. Nelson Mayor Nick Smith wasn't concerned about the hospital's blank budget lines. 'This is the biggest investment ever by Government in Nelson,' he said. 'This is awesome news for Nelson, and welcome relief to the long-term problems we have with our Nelson Hospital.' Smith said the new inpatient building would be 11,000 square metres – 'almost the size of the existing two tower blocks added together'. 'I am pleasantly surprised, given the level of fiscal pressure the Government is under, that they've delivered the funding and in the timeframe I wanted.' He acknowledged that health services also depended on doctors and nurses, but said better facilities would improve the region's ability to attract and retain staff, and improve their ability to do their jobs. The next step for the hospital redevelopment was the detailed design and construction. 'Council will be working closely with Government and Health New Zealand to progress the resource [consents] of the buildings as quickly as possible to meet this challenging timetable.' Smith said he hadn't been expecting specific funding announcements on the Hope Bypass, but added that he was 'encouraged' by allocations for state highway upgrades. But Nelson's Labour MP, Rachel Boyack, was scathing in her criticism of the 2025 Budget. 'The funding announced in today's budget fails to provide the certainty needed that Nelson's new hospital will be built and funded.' She said the details confirmed the 'downgrade' of the Nelson Hospital rebuild, with no mention of a large acute services building that Labour had committed to while in government. 'Instead, they are planning a smaller building that won't provide for the needs of Nelson's ageing and growing population. She said the $1 billion allocated was a 'just a pittance' of the $20 billion identified by the Government that was needed for health infrastructure over the next decade. She added that it was 'very disappointing' that the budget hadn't made any mention of the Hope Bypass, nor guaranteed that the new road would not be tolled. Other reductions in KiwiSaver and Best Start funding, along with the controversial pay equity changes, would hurt working Nelsonians who were 'doing it tough', Boyack said. 'National's Budget is a choice – to build for the future or not – they've chosen not to. They have stolen from women's back pockets and our kids' retirement savings to subsidise fossil fuels.'
Yahoo
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Doctors lists risks of bathing with pets as Amanda Holden has bath with dog
There's a special bond between a dog and its owner, but some might argue that bathing together is a step too far. Amanda Holden left listeners shocked on Heart Radio this week when she revealed she that she had a bath and put her pooch, Minnie, in too. The 54-year-old explained: "I looked at Minnie the moocher, who's my dog, and I just thought, I'm gonna put her in with me. "I need to wash her anyway because she's covered in sand, so I took her collar off and we had a little bath together!" She continued: "I used all her doggie shampoo, so there were no products in the bath so please don't write in. Minnie was loving it, she was living her best life." Holden then got out of the bath, but decided to reuse the water to bathe her other dog Rudie too. She added: "I put Rudie in the bath water. I just thought it saves a bit of bath water and then I gave him a good old scrub as well so everyone was clean and fluffy and lovely!" The anecdote left her colleagues divided. Her producer put their "head in their hands" while her co-star Jamie Theakston questioned: "Is it ever okay or is it a problem to bathe with your pets?" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amanda Holden (@noholdenback) Dr Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics skin clinic explains that it's very important to avoid bathing with your dogs at all cost, as dogs can carry a host of different bacteria in their fur. "Pets can carry bacteria and parasites in their fur and skin, such as E. coli, Salmonella, fleas, and ticks, which can be transmitted to humans during a shared bath," Dr Perry explains. "Pet-specific shampoos are formulated for the different pH levels and skin types of animals, and using them on humans can cause irritation, dryness, or allergic reactions. Human bath products contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, and artificial colours that can cause allergic reactions or skin sensitivities in dogs." Even if your dog appears clean and you keep up with regular flea and worming treatment, it's best to keep the grooming process separate to avoid any chance of catching an infection. "Bathing separately also ensures that pets are bathed using appropriate products for their needs, without the risk of cross-contamination from harmful chemicals or bacteria that could affect both humans and pets," Dr Perry adds. Dr Deborah Lee at Dr Fox pharmacy agrees that baths with your dog could cause a host of different infections, which could have "serious consequences for both the dog and the owner." "Dogs are dirty creatures! Their tail-ends are teaming with microorganisms," Lee states, "These organisms will be swirling in the bath water and may be splashed into your eyes, nose and mouth and even swallowed. Infection can potentially enter the human body from any orifice." Alongside the risk to personal hygiene and health, Lee warns that it could also lead to injury for the owner or the pet if they are both in the bath together. "In my view, you should never bathe with your dog," Dr Lee adds, "Apart from the risk of infection, in the slippery bath, and the presence of dog and human and soap and shampoo, this is a high risk of things getting out of control and either the dog or the owner having an accident or the dog getting frightened. You can shower your dog in the garden with dog shampoo very happily and save your clean, hot bathtub just for you!" Read more about health and animals: Dogs can smell if you're stressed - here's what else they can sniff out (Yahoo, 3-min read) What is bird flu, and should you be worried about it? (The Guardian, 8-min read) What we know as lab-grown meat set for UK shelves within two years (Yahoo, 6-min read)
