Recently, Section 144 has been reimposed in the city of Agra. Under the Indian Justice Code (BNS), Section 163 was previously known as Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Considering the festive season, public gatherings, and ongoing board examinations, this decision has reignited the debate over the continued application of this colonial-era law. 

Since assuming office in 2017, Yogi Adityanath has undeniably reshaped Uttar Pradesh’s law and order landscape. His administration’s unwavering zero-tolerance stance on crime, epitomized by the ‘bulldozer model’ and assertive policing, has demonstrably deterred criminals and reduced public offences. Even opposition voices acknowledge the decline of the ‘jungle raj’ that previously plagued the state.

Agra, once renowned for the grandeur of the Mughal Empire and the beauty of the Taj Mahal, is now yearning to quench its thirst.

Over the past two decades, we have witnessed the gradual disappearance of an entire community – the one that made us laugh tickled our funny bones, and compelled us to think. Satirists, cartoonists, and masters of humour are slowly fading away. They have been replaced by YouTubers and stand-up comedians whose sick jokes are often laced with profanity and vulgarity. This is an era where laughter has been replaced by shouting, brawling, and hate-filled dialogues.

As Kerala gears up for its assembly elections, the political atmosphere remains subdued, with discussions on football and Gulf employment dominating conversations at coffee stalls outside the Guruvayur temple. However, behind this apparent calm lies a flurry of political activity, with the BJP’s growing ambitions, Congress’s internal struggles, and the Left Democratic Front facing mounting challenges.

The central and state governments should seriously consider special packages of incentives and concessions ahead of festivals. India’s festivals – be it Holi, Diwali, Eid, or Christmas – are not just celebrations of joy but also powerful engines driving the country’s economic growth. These vibrant events sustain the momentum of India’s market economy, making government support for festivals essential due to their multifaceted impact.