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Bangalore, May 22, 2026 : 

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, Chairman of the Akhila Sevak Samaj Sangh, has formally written to the Chief Minister and Home Minister of Karnataka seeking immediate intervention and a high-level cyber-forensic investigation into alleged unauthorised mobile surveillance and suspicious digital monitoring activities.

In the representations submitted under the banner of the Akhila Sevak Samaj Council, Dr. Mallappa expressed serious concern over what he described as repeated and unexplained tracing, monitoring, and interception-related activities involving certain mobile connections. He stated that the matter raises significant concerns regarding privacy, digital security, and misuse of communication systems.

The letters urge the Karnataka government to direct the Cyber Crime Cell and relevant technical authorities to conduct a detailed forensic examination of the suspected activities, including verification of technical routing patterns, signalling records, and location-based service (LBS) data linked to the identified mobile numbers.

Dr. Mallappa noted that any form of surveillance or interception carried out without legal sanction or procedural transparency poses a serious challenge to citizens’ constitutional rights and personal liberty.

“Digital privacy and communication security are integral to the rights of every citizen. Any suspected misuse of surveillance mechanisms or unauthorised monitoring must be investigated swiftly and impartially to maintain public trust and prevent further misuse,” Dr. Mallappa stated.

He further called upon the state authorities to ensure a transparent and time-bound inquiry into the matter and to take appropriate action against any individual or entity found responsible for unlawful digital interference.

Read Letter Here: https://businessnewsthisweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Chief_Minister_Karnataka_Request-2.pdf

New Delhi, May 22 (BNP): What started as a satirical online campaign fuelled by memes, sarcasm and political commentary has rapidly transformed into one of India’s biggest digital sensations. The “Cockroach Janata Party” (CJP), a meme-driven social media movement born out of public outrage and internet humour, has crossed 15 million followers on Instagram within just five days, overtaking the online popularity of India’s major political parties.

Operating under the handle @cockroachjantaparty, the platform has surged ahead of established political organisations in a dramatic display of internet influence. While the official Instagram account of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) currently has around 8.7 million followers, the Indian National Congress — one of India’s oldest political parties with a history spanning over 140 years — has approximately 13.2 million followers. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), founded in 2012, trails with nearly 1.9 million followers.

The movement reportedly emerged in response to controversial remarks linked to concerns surrounding unemployed youth, quickly evolving into an online expression of frustration over issues such as joblessness, inflation, governance and social inequality. Through viral reels, satire, memes and politically charged humour, the page has struck a chord with younger internet users, particularly Gen Z audiences.

In a country where political influence is traditionally built over decades through organisational networks and electoral outreach, the meteoric rise of the Cockroach Janata Party has triggered widespread discussion over the growing role of digital culture in shaping public discourse. Supporters see it as a symbolic protest movement reflecting youth dissatisfaction, while critics argue that viral popularity may not necessarily translate into meaningful political engagement beyond social media.

The trend has also attracted attention from prominent public figures and online influencers. Popular YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, activist-lawyer Prashant Bhushan and leaders including Mahua Moitra and Kirti Azad have publicly reacted to or expressed support for the viral trend, adding to its visibility and political intrigue.

As the “Cockroach” trend continues to dominate social media conversations, questions remain over whether the phenomenon will remain a meme-powered online moment or evolve into a broader expression of political sentiment among India’s youth.

Kolkata, May 22 (BNP): A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after the state government made the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory in all recognised madrasas across the state. The directive, issued by the Directorate of Madrasa Education, mandates that the national song be sung during morning assembly prayers before classes begin in institutions functioning under the Minority Affairs and Madrasa Education Department.

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The order applies to government model madrasas, government-aided institutions, approved Shishu Shiksha Kendras, Madhyamik Shiksha Kendras, and recognised unaided madrasas. The move comes nearly a week after the state government extended a similar mandate to schools, making Vande Mataram part of morning assemblies across educational institutions. Officials said the directive has been approved for immediate implementation as part of efforts to introduce uniformity in assembly practices and promote patriotic values among students.

The decision has sparked sharp reactions from opposition parties and sections of civil society, with critics alleging that educational institutions are being drawn into political debates. Several leaders questioned the timing and intent of the order, arguing that consultations with madrasa authorities and educators could have preceded such a move.

Reacting to the criticism, Samik Bhattacharya defended the government’s decision and rejected allegations of communal polarisation. “Vande Mataram and madrasas have no conflict. This is not about Hindu-Muslim politics. The slogan has historically been used across political traditions, including by the Congress during the freedom movement,” he said while backing the directive.

Written by novelist Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Vande Mataram played a prominent role during India’s freedom struggle and remains a symbol of patriotism, while also periodically emerging as a subject of political and ideological debate in public life.

Groundbreaking responsible AI tool to launch as paid add-on for Spotify Premium users 

Santa Monica and Stockholm, May 21, 2026 – Spotify and Universal Music Group (UMG) today announced landmark recorded music and music publishing licensing agreements enabling Spotify to launch a new tool allowing fans to create covers and remixes of their favorite songs from participating artists and songwriters. 

This groundbreaking tool will be powered by generative AI technology that will open up additional revenue streams and new ways to drive discovery. It introduces a creation model where artists and songwriters can directly share in the value generated through AI-driven licensed covers and remixes on the Spotify platform. 

The new tool will launch as a paid add-on for Spotify Premium users and create an additional source of income for artists and songwriters, on top of what they already earn on Spotify. 

“Solving hard problems for music is what Spotify does, and fan-made covers and remixes are next. What we’re building is grounded in consent, credit, and compensation for the artists and songwriters that take part. Through each technological transformation, we have worked together with Sir Lucian and his team to evolve the music ecosystem into a richer, more beneficial experience for fans and a more rewarding outcome for artists and songwriters,” said Alex Norström, Co-CEO, Spotify. 

“The most valuable innovations in the music business always bring artists and fans closer together. That principle is at the heart of this pioneering AI-enabled superfan initiative, which is designed to support human artistry, deepen fan relationships, and create additional revenue opportunities for artists and songwriters. Building on our long track record of leading the industry through technology changes, and collaborating with Alex, Gustav, Daniel and the team at Spotify, this initiative is firmly artist-centric, rooted in responsible AI, and will drive growth for the entire ecosystem,” said Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO, Universal Music Group.

Mumbai, May 21 (BNP): India is set to enter a new phase of climate-linked financial innovation with the National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange Ltd (NCDEX) preparing to launch RAINMUMBAI, the country’s first exchange-traded weather derivatives contract, on June 1, 2026. The pioneering product is designed to help businesses, investors and weather-sensitive sectors manage financial risks arising from monsoon uncertainty through a regulated market instrument.

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The launch marks a significant step toward integrating climate variability into India’s financial ecosystem, particularly at a time when erratic weather patterns and rainfall fluctuations increasingly affect agriculture, logistics, infrastructure and commodity markets. Linked to rainfall data, the contract will allow stakeholders to hedge against unexpected monsoon outcomes and minimise economic disruptions caused by excessive or deficient rainfall.

Developed by National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange Ltd, RAINMUMBAI is expected to create a structured and transparent framework for managing weather-related risks using market-based mechanisms. The initiative is also seen as a major move toward strengthening financial preparedness against climate-linked uncertainties while broadening the scope of derivatives trading in India.

Industry experts believe the introduction of weather derivatives could benefit multiple sectors dependent on seasonal rainfall, offering a more predictable risk-management system and helping businesses make informed financial decisions during the crucial monsoon period. The development signals India’s growing focus on combining technology, finance and climate resilience in economic planning.

Mumbai, May 21: Raheja Universal unveiled Endora, a vibrant new outdoor lifestyle destination at Raheja Exotica on Versova Island, with an immersive launch celebration attended by over 500 residents. Spread across nearly 2 acres, Endora forms the “Soul” element of the Mind, Body and Soul philosophy of Club Exotica, reinforcing Raheja Universal’s vision of creating holistic residential environments that extend beyond conventional living.

The launch transformed Endora into a high-energy community festival, featuring adrenaline-filled Bicycle Motocross  showcases, wellness workshops, live music performances, interactive activities, and resident-led experiences that brought the space to life. The event offered residents a first-hand experience of Endora’s dynamic mix of recreation, wellness, entertainment, and social engagement.

As residential preferences increasingly shift toward lifestyle-led developments with immersive amenity ecosystems, Endora reflects Raheja Universal’s continued investment in enhancing both liveability and long-term value creation within its communities. The addition of large-scale experiential outdoor infrastructure further strengthens Raheja Exotica’s positioning as one of Mumbai’s distinctive waterfront residential destinations.

Designed as a multi-generational outdoor destination, Endora features a skate park and pump track for Bicycle Motocross  enthusiasts, a rock-climbing zone and treehouse play area for children, a dedicated pet park, and thoughtfully curated social spaces including an outdoor bowling alley and an open barbecue zone. For residents seeking moments of calm and relaxation, Endora also includes a dedicated yoga and meditation deck, while an open-air amphitheatre with a large screen creates a venue for community gatherings, movie nights, and cultural experiences. Complementing the outdoor experience is Café Aufside, offering a casual dining space for residents to unwind and connect.

Speaking on the unveiling, Mr. Ashish Raheja said,

“At Raheja Exotica, we have always believed that a residential development should offer more than just homes. With Endora, our effort has been to create a vibrant outdoor space where residents can relax, stay active, and connect with their community. From adventure and wellness to leisure and social interaction, Endora has been thoughtfully designed to offer something for every age group.”

Further reflecting Raheja Universal’s continued focus on experiential living, Endora marks another step in RUPL’s vision of creating differentiated lifestyle ecosystems and new-age residential asset classes across landmark projects, from Horizon, the world’s highest residential restobar at the 60th floor at Raheja Imperia, to the expansive 5+ acre District Park at Raheja District. With Endora, the focus extends beyond conventional amenities toward building immersive community-led experiences that enhance interaction, wellness, recreation, and everyday living. As Raheja Universal continues to shape the evolving identity of Versova Island into a vibrant waterfront lifestyle destination, Endora emerges as the place where the island comes to play.

Rome, May 21 (BNP): A light-hearted diplomatic gesture between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni turned into a viral internet sensation during Modi’s visit to Rome, after the Indian leader gifted a packet of the popular Indian ‘Melody’ toffee to his Italian counterpart, reviving the much-loved “Melodi” trend online.

The playful moment unfolded during high-level engagements in Rome, where Meloni later shared a video on social media thanking Modi for the gift. In the clip, the Italian Prime Minister described the confectionery as a “very, very good toffee,” while Modi smilingly revealed its name — “Melody” — triggering laughter and a fresh wave of online reactions celebrating the duo’s camaraderie.

The term “Melodi,” a blend of Modi and Meloni, has become a popular internet nickname symbolising the friendly rapport between the two leaders. Over the past year, informal exchanges, selfies and candid moments at multilateral summits have frequently gone viral, drawing millions of views and widespread social media engagement. A selfie video shared by Meloni during the G7 Summit in 2025, captioned “Hello from the Melodi team,” had earlier amplified the trend globally.

Beyond the viral moment, the visit also underscored growing strategic ties between India and Italy. The two leaders held discussions on expanding bilateral cooperation across trade, infrastructure, defence, clean technology and economic connectivity, including collaboration under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Both nations have expressed ambitions to deepen economic engagement and further strengthen their strategic partnership in the coming years.

During his visit, Modi also met Italian artist Giampaolo Tomassetti, who presented him with a painting of Varanasi, reflecting his long-standing artistic engagement with Indian culture and civilisational heritage.

Inspired by abstract florals, painterly color palettes, and the romance of handcrafted artistry, Kicky & Perky introduces Corolla, a collection that transforms traditional Meenakari craftsmanship into a modern expression of wearable art.

Designed as a celebration of color, individuality, and modern femininity, the collection brings together enamel artistry, abstract floral forms, and contemporary silhouettes through a refined and expressive design language.

Crafted in hallmarked 925 sterling silver with real rhodium plating, Corolla captures the fluid beauty of blooming forms and brushstroke-inspired detailing through intricately handcrafted designs. The collection features soft pastel enamels in lilac, blush pink, powder blue, butter yellow, and fresh green creating a palette reminiscent of watercolor paintings and dreamlike spring landscapes.

At the heart of Corolla lies the centuries-old art of Meenakari, reinterpreted through a distinctly contemporary perspective. Rather than treating enamel as ornamentation alone, Kicky & Perky approaches the craft as artistic storytelling  where every surface, hue, and silhouette becomes part of a larger visual composition.

The collection is adorned with carefully selected gemstones including iolite, pearls, and blue chalcedony accents, bringing luminosity, texture, and depth to every creation. From sculptural pendants and statement earrings to cuff bangles, rings, and brooches, Corolla is designed to feel expressive, collectible, and deeply personal.

Balancing softness with structure and whimsy with sophistication, the collection transitions effortlessly from festive occasions and destination holidays to brunch dressing and elevated everyday styling.

With its abstract florals and handcrafted enamel work, Corolla draws closer to the world of artistic keepsakes than seasonal accessories embracing craftsmanship, individuality, and emotional expression through design.

“Corolla was envisioned as a celebration of color and craftsmanship almost like miniature canvases translated into jewellery,” shares the brand. “We wanted the collection to feel artistic yet wearable, expressive yet refined. Every piece carries a sense of freedom, creativity, and modern femininity.”

Every piece is crafted in hallmarked 925 sterling silver, finished with real rhodium plating for enhanced brilliance and durability, and supported by lifetime plating services.

With Corolla, Kicky & Perky continues to explore contemporary Indian craftsmanship through collections that merge artistry, color, and emotional storytelling into timeless, wearable pieces.

Tamil Nadu,May 21 (BNP): In a major political development, C. Joseph Vijay on Thursday expanded the Tamil Nadu Cabinet with 23 ministers taking oath, marking a significant restructuring of the newly formed government and the entry of the Congress into the ruling administration after nearly six decades.

The swearing-in ceremony, held in Chennai, saw 21 legislators from the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and two Congress MLAs inducted into the Council of Ministers, strengthening the Vijay-led coalition government. The expansion is aimed at broadening governance representation and enhancing administrative coordination across departments.

The induction of Congress ministers marks a historic political moment, with the party returning to the Tamil Nadu Cabinet after a gap of nearly 59 years. Congress legislators Rajesh Kumar and P. Vishwanathan were among those sworn in, reflecting the growing role of alliance partners in the state government.

The cabinet expansion comes days after Vijay assumed office as Chief Minister and allocated portfolios to an initial set of ministers. Political observers view the move as an effort to strengthen governance, improve coalition coordination and ensure wider regional and social representation within the administration

May 21 : Located at Gurugram’s most vibrant, high-energy retail destination, Galleria Market, Gurugram, this store marks the arrival of something truly unique and exciting in the luxury retail space. Going beyond the conventional, it promises to be a fragrance-led destination where every detail invites you to pause, explore, and indulge in the art of thoughtful self-care.

As the brand continues to expand its footprint, this new store offers a seamless blend of luxury, discovery, and immersive scent experiences. Cozy, intimate, and petite by design, the space brings together a thoughtfully curated range across perfume, gifting, bath & body, and home fragrances, all under one roof. Warm lighting, curated displays, and the quiet hum of fragrance in the air make it a natural pause point in one of Gurugram’s busiest, most aspirational retail corridors.

“I wanted this boutique space to feel like a thoughtful little world of its own. Petite, fragrance-led, and crafted with so much intention, every inch of it was a labour of love.” –Kimi Jain, Co-founder, Kimirica

Immerse in a Multi-Sensory Experience

For a city as fast-moving as Gurugram, where consumers are globally aware and impossible to impress, Kimirica has built something rare: a reason to slow down.

At the heart of the boutique lies the brand’s Fine Fragrance collection, where each Eau De Parfum offers a sensorial olfactory journey inspired by moments, memories and places.

KIMIRICA’S RETAIL EVOLUTION

Fragrance as Experience, Not Transaction

This Galleria opening marks a significant stride in Kimirica’s ambition to redefine Indian luxury fragrance retail, not by importing formats from the West, but by building something native, intelligent, and genuinely experiential. The brand has long been celebrated for its meticulous approach to scent, and this store is the physical manifestation of that philosophy.

The Sensory Pod system

Taking this experience a step further is the Sensory Pod, an extraordinary in-store technology that takes fragrance discovery to another level. It is not just a retail innovation, it is an infrastructure investment in how perfume should be discovered.

As fragrance literacy grows among Indian consumers, Kimirica is placing itself at the intersection of that curiosity and a technology-enabled experience that meets it head-on.

How the Sensory Pod Works

Step 1:  Pick up the bottle and experience the fragrance

Step 2: Place it on the pod’s sensor base

 Step 3: The screen auto-plays the fragrance’s visual story

“We didn’t just open a store. We opened a conversation between a fragrance and the person holding it.”– Mohit Jain, Co-founder, Kimirica

Be Among The First to Experience Galleria’s First Fragrance Destination

As the doors open to Galleria’s newest fragrance destination, Kimirica is celebrating the occasion with thoughtfully curated inaugural offers, available only in-store for a limited period.

●Every walk-in customer receives complimentary gifts

●The first 100 customers get an additional freebie on every purchase

●Shop for ₹5,000 and get ₹1,000 off

For those who love discovering something beautiful before everyone else, this is your moment to step into the world of thoughtful self-care. 

The Next Chapter of Retail Growth
The Galleria boutique marks Kimirica’s fifth exclusive store launch, reflecting the brand’s continued focus on creating immersive retail experiences across high-intent luxury destinations. Chosen for its premium audience, strong visibility, and high footfall, Galleria Market presents an important opportunity to deepen consumer engagement in Gurugram while also contributing significantly to overall revenue growth. Looking ahead, the brand plans to expand to 14 exclusive stores across key Tier-1 markets over the next four quarters, strengthening its presence as a premium destination for fragrance, bath & body, and thoughtful self-care.