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  • ‘Going beyond wearing makeup, losing weight, thinking they are actors’, Kangana appreciates Aryan’s director debut

    ‘Going beyond wearing makeup, losing weight, thinking they are actors’, Kangana appreciates Aryan’s director debut

    Bollywood King Shahrukh Khan’s son, Aryan Khan, has stepped into the spotlight as a creator and director, bringing an exciting new project to Netflix with his debut series.

    Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, Bella Bajaria, shared at a grand event in Los Angeles that the series has already generated buzz in the entrainment industry.
     
    Produced under Red Chilies Entertainment and led by Aryan’s mother, Gauri Khan, the show dives into the dazzling world of Bollywood, following the journey of a talented individual chasing success.  

    Shah Rukh Khan said on this occasion, “This series will give a new look to the glamorous aspect of the film world. Aryan and his team have done a fantastic job and it will be full of fun.”            

    Aryan Khan’s achievements have been widely celebrated; however, actress and BJP leader Kangana Ranaut, known for her outspoken views, also shared her thoughts on Aryan’s upcoming debut.

    Kangana shared her Instagram story with the caption, “It is great that children from film families are going beyond just wanting to wear makeup, lose weight, doll up and think they are actors.” 

    “We should collectively uplift the standards of Indian cinema, as that is the need of the hour. Those with resources often end up taking the easiest roads. We need more people behind the cameras. It’s good that Aryan Khan is taking the road less traveled. I look forward to his debut as a writer and filmmaker”, she added.
     
    Shahrukh Khan shared the news on his Instagram story with the caption, “It’s a special day when a new story is being presented for the audience. Today is even more special as @redchillesent . and Aryan Khan embark on their journey to showcase their new series on @netflix in. Here’s to untamed story telling .controlled chaps.gutsy scenes and lots and lots of fun and emotions. Go forth and entertain pepole @aryan and remember .There’s no business like Show business!!” 

    Monica Shergill, Vice President of Netflix India, said, “Directed by Aryan Khan, this series will provide unique and great entertainment, we are proud of this partnership.”

    Netflix India shared a post with the caption stating,“THIS 2025: NETFLIX AND RED CHILLIES ENTERTAINMENT COME TOGETHER FOR A ONE OF A KIND BOLLYWOOD SERIES PRODUCED BY GAURI KHAN, CREATED AND DIRECTED BY ARYAN KHAN.”
    Suhana Khan took to Instagram to tease her older brother Aryan after Netlfix India officially announced his upcoming directorial debut. Supporting Aryan’s Khan career, Suhana shared Netflix India’s post about the project with a caption, “Lots of laughs, drama, action, and a little bit of trouble—just like it always is with you. I cannot wait! So proud.”

  • ‘Porn attack’ during Zoom meeting by Pakistan Embassy in US leaves internet divided

    ‘Porn attack’ during Zoom meeting by Pakistan Embassy in US leaves internet divided

    An alleged “porn attack” by unknown cybercriminals during an online meeting of the Pakistan Embassy in the United States (US) has left the internet divided.

    As per the details, Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh on November 18 hosted a virtual town hall meeting with members of the Pakistani community in the US. The aim of the meeting was to engage with Pakistani expats in the US and address their consular-related concerns.
     

    The Zoom meeting, however, was interrupted by a “cyberattack playing offensive/obscene material violating all norms of civility and decency”, the embassy said in an official statement.
     

    “Regrettably, the E-Kacheri [town hall meeting] hosted by the Mission yesterday was interrupted by a cyber-attack playing offensive/obscene material violating all norms of civility and decency [sic],” the statement read.
     

    It added that the embassy disconnected the meeting and resumed it shortly after removing the disruptor.
     

    “The matter was explained to the participants, who also condemned the incident, which is under investigation. Attempts to politicize, abuse, and exploit a forum purely facilitative for the diaspora, and motivated attempts to twist facts are unfortunate, counterproductive, and should be avoided,” it added, maintaining that the embassy remained resolutely committed to serving the diaspora.
     

    The statement from Pakistan’s mission in the US came as participants took to social media and alleged that the embassy had “faked” the attack to evade tough questions aimed at the ambassador.

    “At the virtual town hall [with] @PakinUSA, I asked Ambassador Sheikh how he could sleep at night representing an autocratic regime that cracked down on pro-democracy activists, targeted women and children, and disappeared HR defenders?” Mehlaqa Samdani, a Pakistani expat who attended the meeting, posted on X.

    “Rather than respond as one would to a concerned Pakistani-American, he spoke to me as if I were a representative of the US government. He said and I paraphrase: ‘No country should have the audacity to lecture us on good governance/human rights, especially those who support Israel, those with the largest budget deficits in the world, and those financed by the rest of the world through currency reserves’,” she added.

    Samdani went on to claim that the meeting was interrupted when she asked a follow-up question. “When I tried to ask a follow-up question, the town hall was conveniently ‘hacked’ with pornographic material, and the meeting had to be shut down.”

    Samdani’s account of the meeting has sparked a debate among netizens over the veracity of the cyberattack.

  • Indian team withdrew from Champion Trophy after Pakistan’s warm welcome for Dr Zakir Naik: Vikrant Gupta

    Indian team withdrew from Champion Trophy after Pakistan’s warm welcome for Dr Zakir Naik: Vikrant Gupta

    India’s senior sports journalist, Vikrant Gupta, has provided a strange reason to justify the Indian team’s non-commission to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.

    Gupta, while speaking on the social media platform of an Indian cricket website, linked the Indian team’s decision not to travel to Pakistan to the visit of religious scholar Zakir Naik and his warm welcome.

    Talking about Dr Zakir Naik’s visit, Gupta said, “The Pakistani government welcomed Zakir Naik warmly and gave him the status of a state guest. By doing so, Pakistan shot itself in the foot. I would say that Pakistan will have to choose between Zakir Naik or the Champions Trophy.”

    He also stated that “India has given Pakistan a list of terrorist organisations and individuals. If they had taken action against them, perhaps our government would have agreed to send its team.”

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has asserted that the Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, and if India has reservations, they should address them with us.

    Earlier, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refused to send its team to Pakistan for the next Champions Trophy, as per Indian media.

    The Indian board has reportedly decided to reverse its decision to send the Indian team to Pakistan, as confirmed by the Indian Express. Pakistan has been informed of this decision. The BCCI has expressed concerns regarding security about playing in Pakistan and prefers neutral venues, with Dubai being the top choice.

    Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi, however, has claimed not to have received any letter from BCCI, adding that “the Indian board has not said anything in writing so far, there has been no discussion on the hybrid model and there will be no discussion.”

    Earlier, there were reports that the Indian Cricket Board agreed to send the team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, but India refused and wanted to conduct the tournament under a hybrid model.

    Other teams, however, have confirmed they will send their teams to Pakistan for the event.

    The Champions Trophy is scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with matches to be played in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi.

  • India withdraws from Blind T20 World Cup held in Pakistan

    India withdraws from Blind T20 World Cup held in Pakistan

    India has withdrawn from the Blind T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan, as the Indian government has refused to grant the team a No Objection Letter (NOC) to participate in the T20 World Cup.

    The team was issued an NOC by the Sports Ministry, after which the Ministries of Home Affairs and External Affairs were to grant the team an NOC, but neither ministry provided clearance.

    The Indian Blind Cricket Association has confirmed that the External Affairs Ministry has refused to grant the NOC.

    The Association Secretary, Shailendra Yadav, stated that they were yet to receive the letter, but as of yet, they have decided not to go to Pakistan based on the discussion.

    He said, “We have been waiting for the government permission for 25 days, and we cannot wait any longer because the tournament is starting now. When we spoke to the External Affairs Ministry on the phone, they told us not to grant the NOC, and we were told that we would also give a formal letter of refusal.”

    The Blind T20 World Cup is scheduled to start in Pakistan from November 23.

    Earlier, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refused to send its team to Pakistan for the next Champions Trophy, as per Indian media.

    The Indian board has reportedly decided to reverse its decision to send the Indian team to Pakistan, as confirmed by the Indian Express. Pakistan has been informed of this decision. The BCCI has expressed concerns regarding security about playing in Pakistan and prefers neutral venues, with Dubai being the top choice.

    Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi, however, has claimed not to have received any letter from BCCI, adding that “the Indian board has not said anything in writing so far, there has been no discussion on the hybrid model and there will be no discussion.”

    Earlier, there were reports that the Indian Cricket Board agreed to send the team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, but India refused and wanted to conduct the tournament under a hybrid model.

    Other teams, however, have confirmed they will send their teams to Pakistan for the event.

    The Champions Trophy is scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with matches to be played in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi.

  • Showing Muslims taking over Hindu homes, BJP ordered to remove controversial election video

    Showing Muslims taking over Hindu homes, BJP ordered to remove controversial election video

    Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party, known for promoting its anti-Muslim rhetoric has yet again sparked anger for a recent ad campaign in the state of Jharkhand, which depicts Muslim Bengalis invading the homes of locals.

     
    Journalist Rana Ayyub shared the ad with the caption, “We blame the right-wing Twitter handles for targeting Muslims with hate and obscenity. This is an election campaign video for Jharkhand approved by the Prime Minister of India.”

    The ad shows a huge number of infiltrators dressed as Muslims coming inside the house of traditional Hindus who are distressed by outsiders entering their homes. While the children are seen dirtying the sofas and women hanging clothes inside the house, the ad ends with the house owner saying, “You are destroying my house?” to which a man replies that, “the government you have voted for has made their entry possible, so, they should damage your home and not just our areas.”


    “Modi’s BJP is using Islamophobic propaganda for election campaigning. India’s Election Commission has become too subservient to Modi to stop this madness,” Indian-Swedish academic Ashok Swain posted on X.


    Earlier, in September, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah referred to Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants as “infiltrators” and asserted during the speech that under BJP rule, “every infiltrator will be hanged upside down.”


    During the 2024 Lok Sabha general elections, a BJP-affiliated X from Karnataka shared a controversial animation alleging that the opposition party Congress was facilitating Muslim dominance over other communities in India.  


    Additionally, BJP’s official Instagram account posted another animated video portraying Muslims as invaders, building the narrative that Congress is trying to redistribute wealth from Hindus to Muslims.  


    Both of the above-mentioned posts were later deleted. 


    The ad campaign that was released on Saturday and has since been criticised widely on social media prompting Election Commission of India to take notice and ordered the removal of the video from BJP’s social media platforms on Sunday. The commission stated that it appeared to violate the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) enforced during the elections.

    The Election Commission also directed the local Chief Electoral Officer to ensure the video was taken down. 


    Meanwhile, the BJP has since removed the ad from all online platforms.


    The ruling party appointed Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, its election coordinator for Jharkhand. He is a hardline politician accused of hate speeches and policies against Muslims. In one of his speeches, Sarma said his party would identify “the illegals” – as he claims he did in Assam – and “push them to Bangladesh”. He has also promised to replicate Assam’s controversial National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Jharkhand if his party wins. The NRC, originally ordered by India’s Supreme Court in 2013, aims to identify and deport immigrants in India who do not have valid documents.

    In 2019, BJP’s government, headed by Sarma locally, used the NRC drive to remove nearly two million people from the citizenship list – about half of them Hindus.

     
    Al Jazeera reports that despite the BJP’s intent to implement NRC nationwide, the issue has been used selectively in some regions only.

  • FACT CHECK: Cube video from Saudi entertainment event sparks outrage for ‘depicting Kaaba’

    FACT CHECK: Cube video from Saudi entertainment event sparks outrage for ‘depicting Kaaba’

    A viral video from an entertainment event in Saudi Arabia has sparked outrage as social media users claim that a cube at the event was “used to depict the Holy Kaaba”.


    As per the details, the video recorded at Riyadh Season 2023 – an annual winter entertainment event that hosts performers from around the world – showed behind the stage a cube-shaped structure with bright lights and visuals while dancers performed in front of it.
    The clip caused a stir among netizens, who called it a “mockery of Islam’s holiest site”.


    “Saudi Disgraced Islam. This is the opening of Riyadh’s entertainment season in Saudi Arabia this year. They had a model of the Holy Kaaba where they displayed images of singers and dancers [sic],” a user, namely Ryan Rozbiani, wrote in a post on X, which got 5.5 million views.


    “Saudi Arabia has desecrated the image of the Kaaba. What happened to all Muslim zealots around the world? Or can they only be weaponized against Israel’s enemies and NATO’s enemies?” wrote another user in a post that received 198K views.


    The Anti-Rumor Authority of the Kingdom, however, rubbished all claims. It said that the video being shared online was from Riyadh Season’s boxing event last year when four screens were extended from the ceiling for visual effects.


    “There are no models or replicas of the Kaaba in the Kingdom. The cube-like structure was four mirrors attached to the ceiling with images digitally processed to appear on them,” it said.


    Other video from the event also confirmed that the screens had actually been extended from the ceiling and lowered during the opening ceremony of the event, projecting different visuals behind the performers for an immersive experience.

  • #DETOXLAHORE: A Revolutionary Step Against Smog in Punjab for Lahore’s air quality

    #DETOXLAHORE: A Revolutionary Step Against Smog in Punjab for Lahore’s air quality

    The Punjab government’s launch of the #DETOXLAHORE campaign, spearheaded by Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s fight against air pollution. Coupled with the announcement of Lahore’s 10-Year Sectoral Smog Mitigation Plan, this initiative aims to address the persistently high smog levels in Lahore and transform the region’s environmental outlook.

    Lahore’s 10-Year Sectoral Smog Mitigation Plan

    This groundbreaking plan is Pakistan’s first comprehensive strategy to tackle urban air pollution and smog through targeted, sectoral interventions. Developed by the Punjab government, it aligns with the province’s broader objectives to mitigate the environmental, health, and economic impacts of air pollution, particularly in Lahore, one of the country’s most populous and industrialized cities.

    Key Features of the Plan

    1.      Industrial Emissions

    • Introduction of cleaner production techniques and adoption of zigzag technology in brick kilns.
    • Transition to low-emission fuels and installation of emission testing systems to monitor industrial pollution.

    2.      Vehicular Pollution

    • Encouragement of electric vehicles (EVs) and phasing out older, high-pollution vehicles.
    • Expansion of public transport networks to reduce private vehicle dependency.
    • Implementation of fuel quality standards and vehicle fitness programs.

    3.      Agricultural Sector

    • Promotion of sustainable practices, such as crop residue management and biogas production.
    • Incentives for farmers to curb stubble burning, a major contributor to seasonal smog.

    4.      Urban Planning

    • Expansion of green spaces and urban forests to serve as natural carbon sinks.
    • Adoption of smog-resilient urban designs and improved management of construction dust.

    5.      Energy Sector

    • Transition to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
    • Modernization of power plants to reduce emissions and promotion of energy-efficient technologies.

    6.      Monitoring and Enforcement

    • Deployment of enhanced air quality monitoring systems and real-time smog alert protocols.
    • Strengthening of the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) for more robust enforcement.

    #DETOXLAHORE Campaign Measures

    As an immediate response, the Punjab government has rolled out key actions targeting Lahore’s air quality crisis:

    • Industrial Crackdowns: Factories and brick kilns operating without environmental compliance are being shut down​
    • Electric Buses: Lahore will see an influx of 200–250 electric buses to curb emissions​
    • Traffic Regulation: Surveillance systems monitor and flag smoke-emitting vehicles, with fines imposed for repeated violations​
    • Public Engagement: The government has mandated mask usage in public and launched awareness campaigns to encourage eco-friendly practices.

    Enforcement Strategy

    The provincial government has declared a zero-tolerance policy for negligence in smog control. A task force comprising environmental experts and enforcement agencies is working on implementing penalties for non-compliance and rewarding adherence to environmental standards. Regular sessions in the Punjab Assembly ensure legislative support for these initiatives​

     

    Tackling Smog for the Long-Term

    The 10-Year Smog Mitigation Plan complements the short-term actions of #DETOXLAHORE by addressing root causes of air pollution through structural reforms. Together, these measures promise a cleaner, healthier future for Lahore and its citizens, setting an example for the rest of the country.

    By targeting Lahore’s air quality holistically, this initiative underscores the importance of government, industry, and public collaboration in combating the escalating environmental crisis. The combined efforts could transform Lahore into a model for sustainable urban living, reducing smog levels and improving the quality of life for generations to come.

  • A. R. Rahman’s children react to parent’s divorce announcement

    A. R. Rahman’s children react to parent’s divorce announcement

    Bollywood maestro A. R. Rahman and Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, have announced their decision to separate after 29 years of marriage. 

    Rahman shared an emotional note with his fans on November 19, thanking them for respecting their privacy during this difficult time. 

    In his post on X (formerly Twitter), A. R. Rahman expressed the pain of the separation, saying, “We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts. Yet, in this shattering, we seek meaning, though the pieces may not find their place again. To our friends, thank you for your kindness and for respecting our privacy as we walk through this fragile chapter.”

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    A. R. Rahman and Saira Banu tied the knot on March 12, 1995, and have three children together. 

    On November 19, Saira Banu’s lawyer, Vanda Shah, released a public statement conforming the separation.  

    The statement read: “After many years of marriage, Mrs Saira has made the difficult decision to separate from her husband Mr AR Rahman. This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship”

     “Despite their deep love for each other, the couple has found that the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them, one that neither party feels able to bridge at this time. Mrs Saira emphasised that she has taken this decision out of pain and agony. Mrs Saira requests privacy and understanding from the public during this challenging time, as she navigates this difficult chapter in her life”, the further statement read.
      
    Last night, the children of A. R. Rahman, Khatijam Ameen and Raheem took to Instagram stories to react to the news. 

    Ameen wrote on his Instagram story, “We kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this time. Thank you for your understanding.”  

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    His daughter, Khatija, wrote her story on Instagram: “I would greatly appreciate it if this matter could be treated with the utmost privacy and respect. Thank you for your consideration.” 

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    Earlier, Indian musician and singer A. R. Rahman shared a startling personal revelation, revealing that he contemplated suicide multiple times during his youth.

    Speaking at the Oxford Union Debating Society, Rahman revealed that his mother had told him to live his life for others and that if he could switch his mindset and do so, it would dispel negative thoughts.

    Rahman expressed gratitude for his mother’s advice and said it was the “most beautiful counsel”.

    Rahman also stressed the importance of living for others, saying it was essential.

    “I took my mother’s advice seriously, whether it’s composing music for someone, writing, or buying food for those in need,” Rahman said, adding that “acts like these, even just smiling at someone, are what give us reasons to live.”

  • Asim Azhar shares the love of young fan attending his concert

    Asim Azhar shares the love of young fan attending his concert

    Singer Asim Azhar recently shared a heartwarming moment with a young fan who attended his concert. The young fan, completely enthralled by Asim’s songs, did not know that her love for his music had also won the singer’s heart while he was on stage.

    Asim Azhar took to his Instagram stories to express his affection for the young fan, writing, “This cutie had my heart the whole time I was on stage.”

    The adorable interaction highlights the strong bond between Asim and his fans, showing his appreciation for their support.

    His followers have widely appreciated the video and the message, with many fans praising the singer’s kindness and the genuine connection he shares with his audience.

    He also continues to be a beloved figure in the music industry, known for his captivating performances and warm interactions with fans.

    Earlier, Asim Azhar was ready to start a new part of his music career with his first album, ‘Bematlab’, releasing in April. The album included seven songs, with five collaborating with other artists.

    Azhar cleared his Instagram feed, suggesting big changes in his career. He posted a mysterious message hinting at something new, leaving fans eager for more details. Then, as the countdown started, the 27-year-old revealed the songs on the album, teasing exciting collaborations with both big names in the industry and up-and-coming stars.


     
    Familiar names like Talha Anjum and Talhah Yunus, who worked on tracks like ‘Bematlab’and ‘Karma,’ are featured there. But what gets fans excited is the promise of new partnerships, especially the collaboration with Hasan Raheem on the song ‘You,’ while Nehaal Naseem will add energy to the album with ‘Mujhsa Na,’ and Umair will appear on ‘Kyun.’

    After being in the music business for 11 years, Asim caused a stir online when he deleted all his Instagram posts on Tuesday, similar to what Taylor Swift and many other international artists would do. Shortly after, he came back with an exciting teaser for his first album.

    The teaser gave a sneak peek into Asim’s life as a musician, from his childhood to his youth, making it clear that fans can expect a personal seven-track album. In the caption, he announced the release date, saying, “A new journey, a new beginning, Bematlab, my debut album.”

    Fans and colleagues from the entertainment industry rushed to the post to show their support and best wishes. Asim’s fiancée, Meerub Ali, also joined in, hyping him up with comments like “the most dramatic entry ever” and “ap cha gaye hou” (you are everywhere)

    The story of ‘Bematlab’ goes back to Asim’s early days when he gained attention by singing heartfelt covers of Western songs on YouTube. But it was his standout performance in Coke Studio 9 that put him in the spotlight, showing off his talent and making him a star. Since then, Asim has been delivering hit singles and captivating audiences with his versatile voice and emotional performances in popular dramas.

  • Interior Ministry likely to block CNICs, degrees of students participating in PTI protest

    Interior Ministry likely to block CNICs, degrees of students participating in PTI protest

    In a worrying development, Pakistan’s state-owned broadcaster PTV News posted a news alert yesterday on its official X (formerly Twitter) page, informing the public that the Interior Ministry has warned students that if they “participate in the 24th November protest, their educational certificates, admissions and CNICs could be blocked.”

    The News Alert further stated: “The federal government has started geo-fencing Afghan Muhajireen camps within the federal capital and nearby cities. The government is considering blocking the CNICs, degrees and admission of students who engage in violent protests. The interior Ministry is also considering blocking the passports, CNICs, and SIMs of those who participate in protests.”

    The statement follows a call by the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan, for nationwide protests while also warning party leaders to either participate in the upcoming protest or leave the party.”

    In a recent statement, Khan stated that those unable to join the planned “power show” should “disassociate themselves” from the PTI, calling it a critical moment in the party’s struggle for freedom and justice.

    Khan, in his announcement on November 13, also denounced what he described as a “stolen mandate,” unjust arrests, and the passage of the 26th amendment, which he claimed strengthened a “dictatorial regime.” 

    In a statement shared on X, Imran reiterated the importance of the November 24 protests. He framed the event as “a golden opportunity to secure genuine freedom for Pakistan” and warned that “enslaved nations eventually die away.”

    The PTV News alert also noted that the federal government is ready to “deal with strictness” on the upcoming November 24 protest by PTI. 

    “Islamabad’s deputy commissioner has imposed Section 144 for two months,” read the news alert by PTV News. 

    Upset social media users reacted over the Interior Ministry’s policy, with one user writing, “Foreigners may find it wild: Pakistan state TV is broadcasting this government message threatening: – surveillance of Afghan refugee camps (fuelling ethnic tensions) – cancellation of ID cards, passports and degrees of students. All to stop PTI protests.”

    Another X user, Ammar Rashid, posted: “Unelected regime thugs inciting racial fears & openly threatening Pakistani students with stripping of their citizenship & right to education for attending a protest. No depth to which this dictatorship will not sink to cling on to power.  Meanwhile, the spineless gaggle of PDM frontmen & their mindless acolytes in the media & social media will clap at these violations of the constitution as if they’re markers of democratic progress & ‘resistance to fascism’.”