A BJP councillor from Kerala’s Palakkad municipality has lodged a complaint against rapper and songwriter Vedan, also known as Hirandas Murali, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. The complaint alleges that Vedan insulted Prime Minister Narendra Modi in one of his songs.

In her complaint, Mini Krishnakumar, the BJP councillor, claims that the lyrics of Vedan’s song “Voice of Voiceless,” released four years ago, contain defamatory remarks about the Prime Minister. She further contends that the artist promotes societal division based on caste through his music.

The complaint highlights phrases such as “pseudo-nationalist” and lines that suggest, “The country is in the hands of the one who wields the sword.” Mini alleges that these lyrics are a deliberate affront to the Prime Minister and has called for an investigation by central agencies into the artist’s intent.

She stated, “The artist has made unsubstantiated, disrespectful, and offensive remarks about the Prime Minister, which not only tarnish his personal and political image but also undermine the dignity of India’s highest constitutional office.”

Mini’s complaint follows a wave of criticism directed at Vedan from Sangh Parivar leaders. RN Madhu, editor of Kesari, the RSS mouthpiece, accused Vedan of being backed by powerful sponsors and of promoting caste-based terrorism and separatist ideologies through his music. Additionally, KP Sasikala, a leader of the Hindu Aikya Vedi, criticized Vedan’s attire and expressed the belief that rap music lacks relevance for Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) communities.

The recent selection of actress Tamannah Bhatia as the brand ambassador for Mysore Sandal soap has sparked controversy among Kannada activists. Renowned for her impressive performances in films like Bahubali, Tamannah was chosen by Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL) for her extensive digital reach, pan-India appeal, and favorable contract terms. Mysore Sandal soap, celebrated for its unique fragrance, is a product deeply tied to Karnataka’s heritage.

Tamannah’s latest project, *Odela 2*, will be followed by the folk thriller *Vvan – Force of the Forest*, in which she stars alongside Siddarth Malhotra.

However, the decision to appoint her as the face of this iconic Kannadiga product has faced backlash from Kannada language activists. They argue that a local product should be represented by a Kannada-speaking ambassador. In defense, MB Patil, the Minister for Commerce and Industries in Karnataka, emphasized the choice was based on factors such as national recognition and popularity among youth, noting that the contract with Tamannah is valued at ₹6.2 crores for two years.

In a social media post, Minister Patil stated, “KSDL aims to boost its revenue to ₹5,000 crores by 2028, implementing significant changes with multi-dimensional strategies for comprehensive organizational growth.”

Karnataka Rakshana Vedike has raised strong objections, asserting that KSDL is part of the rich history of Kannada culture, and employing a non-Kannada actress as its representative is inappropriate. Social activist Marilingegowda Patil has also approached Chief Minister S. Siddaramaiah regarding this matter.

Nevertheless, the government maintains that the decision is strictly a business strategy and not influenced by regional identities. Notably, other prominent actresses like Deepika Padukone, Rashmika Mandanna, and Kiara Advani were also considered for the role.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai paid homage on Friday to CoBRA commando Solanki Mehul Bhai Nandlal, who lost his life during a vigorous anti-Naxal operation in the Usoor forests of Bijapur district. The 28-year-old CRPF constable was involved in a vital mission aimed at rooting out Maoist insurgents when he sustained fatal injuries in a gunfight, adding to the list of martyrs in India’s longstanding battle against Left Wing Extremism.

As the tricolor-adorned coffin of Constable Mehul Bhai was brought out of the 4th Battalion Headquarters of the Chhattisgarh Armed Forces in Mana, Raipur, Chief Minister Sai, alongside Home Minister Vijay Sharma and DGP Arun Dev Gautam, shouldered the remains in a poignant display of collective mourning and respect.

“The ultimate sacrifice of our courageous soldiers will not be in vain,” asserted CM Sai. “Shaheed Mehul Bhai exemplified the highest ideals of bravery and patriotism. We stand resolutely with his family during this time of profound loss and renew our commitment—Naxalism will be eradicated from Chhattisgarh by March 2026.”

Bijapur district has long been a center of Maoist activity. The CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) unit, to which Constable Mehul belonged, specializes in guerrilla warfare and has played a crucial role in dismantling Naxal strongholds. Over the past 15 months, security forces have intensified their operations, resulting in the neutralization of over 400 insurgents and many surrenders.

The Chhattisgarh government has pledged enhanced compensation packages and government jobs for the families of the fallen personnel. However, beyond financial assistance, the emotional weight of these sacrifices profoundly impacts the state. As evening fell over Raipur, a solemn assembly of civilians, uniformed personnel, and political leaders observed a moment of silence—not just to mourn a fallen hero, but to honor a spirit of service that remains unwavering.