Russia provides asylum to Syria's ousted President Assad and his family; India will function according to the wishes of its majority, says Allahabad HC judge at a VHP event

Russia Grants Asylum to Syria’s Ousted President Assad and Family

In a significant geopolitical development, Russia has officially granted asylum to Syria’s former President Bashar al-Assad and his family following his abrupt removal from power in Damascus. According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, the decision was made to “ensure the safety of President Assad and his family amid rising instability in Syria.”

The move comes after weeks of intensified conflict in Syria, with reports suggesting that internal dissent and external pressures led to Assad’s ouster. Moscow, a long-standing ally of Assad, is said to have facilitated his safe passage to Russia under a special arrangement, sparking speculation about the country’s continued role in Syria’s political future. While Western nations have called for greater transparency, Russia maintains that its actions align with international law and humanitarian principles.

Experts suggest that Assad’s asylum could have far-reaching implications for the Middle East, with Russia likely to leverage the situation to strengthen its influence in the region.

India Will Function as Per Majority’s Wishes, Says Allahabad HC Judge at VHP Event

At a Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) event on Tuesday, a sitting judge of the Allahabad High Court remarked that “India will function according to the wishes of its majority.” The statement has stirred debates across political and legal circles, with some interpreting it as a direct nod to the principles of majoritarianism.

The judge, addressing a gathering of VHP members in Lucknow, elaborated on the importance of maintaining cultural and religious heritage in a rapidly evolving nation. “Democracy thrives when the majority is respected, but minorities are equally safeguarded. Yet, the foundation must remain rooted in the will of the majority,” he stated.

Critics have expressed concerns over the judge’s comments, citing the judiciary’s obligation to uphold constitutional values that ensure equal rights for all citizens, irrespective of their religious or cultural identity. Legal experts have called for greater scrutiny over such public statements by sitting judges, emphasizing the need for a judiciary free of bias.

Both incidents highlight the complex interplay of geopolitics and domestic politics shaping today’s world. While Russia’s actions underline its strategic ambitions, the statements from India reveal ongoing challenges in balancing democratic principles with societal expectations.