Advocate AP Vasavan
Bussiness

Balancing Justice and Compassion: The Journey of Advocate AP Vasavan

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In the realm of law, where the scales of justice often tip between legal technicalities and human compassion, Advocate AP Vasavan of the High Court of Kerala stands out as a beacon of integrity, fairness, and empathy. With a career spanning 23 years, Vasavan has carved a niche for himself as a legal luminary who places humanity, justice, and honesty on par with the letter of the law. AP Vasavan’s remarkable journey, marked by over 10,000 cases, including high-profile sessions and POCSO cases, underscores his unwavering commitment to truth and fairness.

Early Life and Education:
AP Vasavan’s early life in Palakkal, Thrissur district, shaped his values and set the foundation for his illustrious career. Born to Prabhakaran and Radha, he is the eldest of three children. After completing his schooling and college education in his hometown, AP Vasavan pursued a degree in law from BMS Law College in Bengaluru. It was his father’s dream that he enter the legal profession, a desire that guided him towards a career in law.

Advocate AP Vasavan
AP Vasavan

Career Highlights:
Since embarking on his legal journey in 2001, AP Vasavan has been a steadfast advocate for the marginalized and downtrodden, striving to ensure that justice is not only served but also perceived to be served. One of the hallmarks of AP Vasavan’s career is his ability to navigate complex and challenging cases with unwavering determination and integrity. Among these, the Thrissur POCSO case stands out as a testament to his dedication to uncovering the truth. Despite the odds stacked against his client, AP Vasavan’s perseverance and commitment to justice ultimately led to the exoneration of the accused, shedding light on the importance of diligence and determination in the pursuit of truth.
In addition to his legal practice, AP Vasavan is a vocal advocate for reform within the judicial system. He believes that the introduction of new statutes, such as the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Samhita, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, will significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the legal system. Furthermore, he advocates for the expansion of privacy laws to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly in cases involving sexual assault and harassment.

Opinions on Legal Education:
Restructuring the legal education system solely within Kerala is not practical since laws are uniform across India and not limited to any specific state. Historically, Kerala lacked private legal education institutions, creating a gap in its educational landscape. However, this gap has been addressed with the emergence of private sector institutions, offering students the freedom to choose their preferred legal studies institutions.
Despite these improvements, the legal education system still has several shortcomings. For aspiring lawyers, understanding court procedures requires more than just theoretical knowledge; it demands practical insight into current practices. Similar to other professional courses, legal studies should emphasize practical experience alongside theoretical learning.
India’s extensive legal framework, comprising over 3000 Acts, makes it unrealistic for law students to master every law entirely. Thus, the modern educational approach should focus on imparting knowledge of key laws and practical skills for navigating legal challenges. While my own legal education lacked a strong emphasis on practical application, there has been a noticeable shift towards integrating practical elements into the curriculum. Emphasizing hands-on learning and practical training within legal studies would represent a significant advancement.

Qualities of a Good Lawyer:
To succeed in the legal profession, a lawyer must possess several essential qualities. Firstly, a comprehensive understanding of the law is paramount, along with staying abreast of the latest judgments from the High Court and Supreme Court, as well as any legislative updates. Secondly, integrity and unwavering honesty towards clients are indispensable virtues. Thirdly, a diligent approach to case preparation is essential, involving thorough research and consultation with experts on complex legal matters.
Unfortunately, there has been a troubling trend of prioritizing financial gain over ethical principles in recent times. However, drawing from my 23 years of experience in the legal field, I advocate for a steadfast commitment to honesty and diligence in one’s practice, as financial success naturally follows from maintaining professional integrity. By adhering to these principles, issues such as corruption and favoritism can be significantly reduced.
Furthermore, conducting legal proceedings in public rather than private spaces contributes to upholding the principles of transparency and fairness in the legal system. By ensuring that legal processes are accessible to all and conducted openly, trust and confidence in the judicial system can be strengthened.

Kerala High Court’s Landmark Ruling
In a significant ruling by the esteemed Kerala High Court, a case unfolded where a father accused the mother of sexually abusing their child. Presiding over the matter, Judge Shircy not only granted bail to the mother but also mandated a specialized team to conduct an investigation. This proactive step, under the High Court’s supervision, ultimately uncovered the mother’s innocence and revealed the father’s concocted allegations.
This case stands as a poignant illustration of the misuse of the POCSO Act, shedding light on the potential for revealing truth amidst unfounded accusations. It emphasizes the imperative of holding individuals accountable for baseless claims, ensuring the integrity of the legal system. However, it also invites contemplation on the appropriateness of judicial intervention in certain societal matters, underscoring the nuanced balance between judicial oversight and the autonomy of other societal institutions.

Advocate AP Vasavan
AP Vasavan

Reflections on Legal Mercy and Reform
In the case of Govindachami, the Supreme Court’s decision to commute his death sentence to a lesser punishment showcases an instance of legal mercy. Discussions surrounding his transformation during his time in prison have been sparked, emphasizing the complexities within the legal system. However, it’s crucial to recognize that the primary aim of the legal system is to ensure that severe crimes receive appropriate sanctions.
He firmly believes that India’s legal framework stands among the most precise globally and is poised for further improvement through ongoing reforms. The guiding principle of our judiciary is to prevent the wrongful punishment of the innocent, even if it means that the guilty might go unpunished. This doctrine is internationally recognized and upheld.
It would be inaccurate to suggest that the Indian legal system is inherently flawed. Like any system, it is subject to continual improvements. Originating from British legal practices, India’s legal system has served effectively for centuries. Yet, to address contemporary challenges, it requires updates and reforms. The introduction of new legal reforms holds promise in enhancing the effectiveness and fairness of the system

Challenging Perceptions in Legal Proceedings
Our understanding of legal outcomes is often shaped by media reports, which may not offer a complete or accurate portrayal of the case at hand. Take, for instance, the situation involving actor Dileep. My insight into the details surpasses the media’s depiction, indicating that his arrest and continued detention may diverge from the widely circulated narrative.
Similarly, in the Highrich case garnering media attention, reports allege fraud amounting to Rs 1,200 crores, with Rs 600 crore frozen in accounts. However, upon closer examination, no client has filed a complaint, suggesting a disconnect between media claims and actual circumstances.
Another striking example is the case involving a bishop accused of rape. Despite media reports, a review of the case file and judgment reveals inaccuracies, ultimately leading to the bishop’s innocence.
These instances underscore the importance of basing legal judgments on case-specific details rather than being influenced by potentially misleading media representations.

Strategies for Timely Resolutions
One of the most pressing challenges within our legal system is the prolonged duration of case resolutions. Addressing this issue requires comprehensive reforms within the legal framework. Ongoing and forthcoming reforms in criminal and civil law aim to tackle this issue head-on. Initiatives are already in motion to expedite cases involving non-residents, and he advocate for a more aggressive expansion of Lok Adalats and Mediation Centers.
With the introduction of new legislation, disputes between individuals can be resolved through arbitration by mutually agreed-upon arbitrators or legally recognized mediators. This approach has the potential to significantly reduce the caseload in courts by encouraging resolution before escalating to formal court settings.
Regarding the pace of legal proceedings, the current system’s requirement for the submission of a counterclaim within 30 days of filing a suit seems reasonable for organizing case documents. However, compared to this, responses to RTI requests alone can take over 30 days, indicating the logistical and technical complexities involved in expediting case resolutions.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to acknowledge the rights of all parties involved in a legal matter. Defendants must have the opportunity to defend themselves adequately. Rushing judgment could deprive defendants of this chance, necessitating time for preparation and submission of relevant documents.
Presently, delays do not appear to stem from intentional stalling. To meet the growing need for legal adjudication, a slight increase in the number of courts, alongside bolstering Dispute Resolution Centers and Adalats, could lead to a reduction in the backlog of cases.

The Kerala High Court’s Social Advocacy
The Kerala High Court has emerged as a proactive force in reshaping societal norms and addressing contemporary social issues. With remarkable responsiveness, the court swiftly intervenes in matters directly impacting the public, demonstrating a keen awareness of pressing social concerns. From ensuring public safety by tackling issues like the misuse of air horns in vehicles and the lack of adequate drainage systems to prevent waterlogging, to taking decisive action against instances of political violence and murders, the court has shown a firm commitment to upholding law and order.
Beyond its traditional role, the Kerala High Court has boldly extended its influence to matters of governance, challenging undue taxation policies and advocating for the rights and interests of citizens. By basing its interventions on newspaper reports and engaging with issues that extend beyond the courtroom, the court showcases a broader perspective on justice, one that actively addresses societal dynamics and fosters a more equitable and just society for all.

Advice for Young Lawyers
Drawing from years of experience in the legal profession, he offers two essential pieces of advice to aspiring lawyers keen on upholding professional ethics. Firstly, it is imperative to master the fundamental rules of law, encompassing statutes such as the Evidence Act, IPC, CrPC, CPC, and Civil Rules of Practice. Continuous updates and familiarity with these statutes are crucial to remaining current and effective in legal practice.
Secondly, aspiring lawyers should prioritize the diligent observation of court proceedings. This involves not only accurate comprehension of legal proceedings but also appropriate action in response. Central to maintaining professional integrity is the unwavering commitment to honesty and integrity when interacting with clients. Approach every client interaction with the utmost respect and reverence, recognizing the trust placed in you as their legal representative. By adhering to these principles, young lawyers can establish a solid foundation for ethical legal practice and contribute positively to the legal profession.

Insights from Ayyappan Pillai Sir
Balancing a demanding professional career with personal life can be a daunting task, but a chance encounter with Ayyappan Pillai Sir, a revered senior lawyer, proved transformative in navigating this delicate equilibrium. His invaluable advice, shared during the rise of ubiquitous mobile phones, advocated for a simple yet profound practice: switching off my mobile device from 9 PM to 9 AM. By dedicating this time exclusively to family matters, Pillai Sir emphasized the paramount importance of nurturing relationships over the relentless pursuit of wealth and recognition. Recognizing that true fulfillment stems from meaningful connections with loved ones, Pillai Sir’s guidance resonated deeply, prompting a steadfast commitment to spending early mornings with my children, aiding them in their school preparations. This deliberate investment in family time not only fostered a profound bond and affection but also imbued life’s achievements with deeper significance.
Inspired by Pillai Sir’s wisdom, I shared this ethos with a judge grappling with the demands of a taxing case, revealing my role as a dedicated father of four. To my astonishment, the judge publicly acknowledged me as his mentor in open court, attributing the mantra I shared to the enrichment of his own family life. Despite the demands of my professional responsibilities, I maintain a firm boundary, ensuring that family life remains sacred and untainted by work-related intrusions. To this day, my family accompanies me on trips unrelated to work, but I steadfastly uphold the separation between personal and professional realms, inviting neither partners to my home nor allowing family matters to encroach upon my professional duties.

Family and Passion
At the heart of his success lies the unwavering support of his family, particularly his wife, Advocate Prasara Vasavan, who serves as a cornerstone in both his personal and professional life. Prasara’s achievements extend beyond the legal realm; she excels as an athlete, showcasing her talent in the women’s IPL cricket and emerging victorious in lawyers’ women’s shuttle tournaments. Her versatility extends further into the realms of modeling and the arts, where her prowess shines brightly. Blessed with three children—Vedit, Sahasr, and Devanshi—their family stands as a testament to the harmonious balance between career pursuits and familial responsibilities.
His journey into the legal field was not merely a career choice but a realization of a lifelong dream instilled in him by his father. His own tenure in a legal office, preceding his employment in banking, fueled his aspiration to see his eldest son follow in his footsteps. This familial legacy nurtured within him a deep-rooted passion for law, evolving over time from a childhood interest into a profound calling. Guided by his father’s aspirations, he embarked on a path in law driven by a sense of purpose and dedication to upholding justice.

Advocate AP Vasavan
AP Vasavan & Family
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Macron says Paris Olympics opening ceremony could be moved

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French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony might be relocated from the River Seine due to security concerns. He suggested alternative venues such as the Trocadéro or the traditional site, the Stade de France. Originally designed to span a 6km stretch of the Seine with over 10,000 athletes on barges and 600,000 spectators along the riverbanks, the event’s scale has been reduced to accommodate only 300,000 invited guests due to security reasons.

Heightened security threats, particularly from groups like the Islamic State, have prompted the implementation of backup plans for the ceremony. Macron emphasized his commitment to ensuring the safety of the games and mentioned efforts to establish an Olympic truce, reaching out to international partners including Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The Paris Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8. Despite security concerns, Macron expressed confidence in the successful execution of the opening ceremony, emphasizing its historic significance as the first to be held outside a stadium.

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‘Incredible feeling’ – Alonso toasts Leverkusen title

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Xabi Alonso expressed overwhelming joy as Bayer Leverkusen clinched their inaugural Bundesliga title with an emphatic 5-0 triumph over Werder Bremen, marking a historic moment for the club. This victory, achieved with five games remaining, ignited jubilant scenes at the BayArena, with fans joining the celebration on the pitch.

Alonso, reflecting on his debut season as a coach, couldn’t contain his excitement, describing the feeling as “incredible.” The match witnessed stellar performances, including Victor Boniface’s penalty and stunning goals from Granit Xhaka and Florian Wirtz. For Xhaka and Wirtz, the magnitude of their achievement hadn’t fully sunk in yet.

The win not only ended Bayern Munich’s 11-year Bundesliga reign but also positioned Leverkusen for a potential treble, with the German Cup and Europa League still within reach. The anticipation surrounding Leverkusen’s title triumph had been building for weeks, with fans eagerly awaiting the moment their team would lift the Meisterschale.

Despite an early scare from Werder, Leverkusen’s dominance prevailed, highlighted by Xhaka and Wirtz’s remarkable goals. The match was a testament to Leverkusen’s remarkable turnaround under Alonso, who took charge when the team was in the relegation zone just 18 months ago.

Overall, Leverkusen’s Bundesliga triumph symbolized a remarkable journey from adversity to glory, marking a new chapter in the club’s history.

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Germany passes law making it easier to legally change gender

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Germany has taken a significant stride towards inclusivity and recognition of gender diversity with the passing of the ‘Gender Identity Act’. This new legislation, which garnered widespread support from the ruling coalition and passed after fiery debates, marks a pivotal moment in the country’s approach to gender rights.

Under the provisions of the Gender Identity Act, individuals aged 18 and above can now undergo a simplified legal process to change their gender identity and first name. Gone are the stringent requirements of obtaining approval from multiple psychiatrists and facing a court decision. Instead, adults need only notify authorities three months prior to the change, with a straightforward selection from three existing gender options outlined in German legislation. Additionally, once a change is made, individuals are unable to reverse or make further alterations for a year, ensuring stability and commitment to their decision.

For adolescents aged 14 to 18, the law mandates parental consent for gender and name changes. However, in cases where parents or guardians withhold consent, applicants have the recourse to appeal to the Family Court for authorization. Meanwhile, for those under 14, parents or guardians are required to initiate the request on their behalf, emphasizing the importance of familial support and legal guardianship in decisions regarding gender identity.

Importantly, the legislation does not interfere with the rights of private establishments, such as gyms and dressing rooms, to determine their admittance policies, respecting their autonomy while safeguarding individual rights.

It’s crucial to note that the Gender Identity Act solely focuses on legal procedures and does not alter the regulations surrounding gender-affirming surgeries. This distinction underscores the multifaceted nature of gender identity and the diverse needs of individuals seeking legal recognition.

Germany’s progressive stance on gender identity is a testament to its commitment to equality and human rights. By streamlining legal processes and empowering individuals to express their gender identity authentically, the country sets a precedent for other nations to follow in promoting inclusivity and respect for all gender identities.

As the Gender Identity Act comes into effect on 1 November, it heralds a new era of acceptance and understanding, reaffirming Germany’s position as a beacon of progress in the global fight for gender equality.

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Abdul Gafoor Mr Light
Bussiness

Brightening Pathways: The Illuminating Journey of Mr. Light and Abdul Gafoor

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In the dynamic realm of today’s market, where brands vie for supremacy, few stories shine as brightly as that of Mr. Light, a UAE-based luminary in the field of lighting solutions. Its journey from a local entity to a global powerhouse is a testament to the vision, resilience, and determination of one man—Abdul Gafoor. Abdul Gafoor’s entrepreneurial acumen propelled Mr. Light to unprecedented heights, illuminating homes across 26 countries. In an exclusive interview with Unique Times, Abdul Gafoor sheds light on the challenges, innovations, and strategic decisions that paved the path for Mr. Light’s success.

Igniting the Journey:
In the nascent years of the new millennium, a keen understanding of the daily needs of the common man in the GCC led to the birth of Mr. Light in the UAE. The founders recognized the significant expatriate population in the Gulf countries and tailored their marketing initiatives accordingly. They understood that a flashlight was an essential component of an expatriate’s homecoming kit, especially given the frequent power disruptions in the region at the time.
With a focus on providing bright and reliable lighting solutions, the brand name, Mr. Light, epitomized the ambition to meet these needs effectively. In a market dominated by plastic products from leading brands like Sanyo, Mr. Light set itself apart by introducing a line of rechargeable aluminum products boasting long-range illumination. This strategic move came during an era predominated by xenon and halogen bulbs, yet Mr. Light carved its niche by offering powerful torches equipped with high-beam LED bulbs, such as the T6 series. The foundation of Mr. Light was laid on the principle of offering the most effective, affordable, and high-quality lighting solutions for the average expatriate’s journey back home.

Collaborative Brilliance:
While Gafoor’s vision sparked Mr. Light’s inception, its realization was a collective effort involving Gafoor and his brothers. With manufacturing in China and R&D in Germany, Mr. Light capitalized on synergies to bring innovative lighting solutions to fruition. This collaborative spirit remains integral to Mr. Light’s ethos. As consumer needs evolved, so did Mr. Light’s product portfolio. From flashlights to specialized LED headlights and underwater lighting, Mr. Light tailored its offerings to diverse demographics, including fishermen and campers. Innovative solutions like the Portable Power Station underscored Mr. Light’s commitment to addressing specific market challenges.

Abdul Gafoor Mr Light
Abdul Gafoor

Guinness World Record Ambition:
In the early stages of their entrepreneurial venture, navigating the marketing landscape presented significant challenges for the team at Mr. Light. Identifying a gap for larger, more innovative torches that aligned with consumer preferences, they developed the 5D series of torches, marking a pivotal point in addressing the needs of their target market. It was during this period of innovation and market adaptation that they contemplated elevating their brand onto a global stage.
This reflection sparked the ambition to clinch a Guinness World Record, envisioning it as a strategic move to bolster their brand’s international visibility and strengthen their global marketing initiatives. Their ambitious goal led to the creation of the world’s largest rechargeable flashlight—a feat that earned them the Guinness World Record. This colossal flashlight, standing approximately 3 meters tall, weighing around 1,000 kg, and equipped with a trolley for mobility, served not just as a testament to their innovation but also significantly enhanced their brand’s credibility and prestige worldwide. Achieving this record was a strategic milestone that solidified their stature in the industry and underscored their commitment to innovation and excellence. Additionally, their team has been deeply inspired, acknowledging the ethos that through unwavering determination and diligent effort, any goal becomes achievable.

The Commoner’s Lamp:
Certainly, Mr. Light’s essence is intricately crafted with the everyday user in mind. Their slogan, “Lights Your Life,” embodies a deep commitment to illuminating the lives of people from all walks of life. The product range is thoughtfully designed to cater to the everyday needs of various segments of society.
For instance, Mr. Light has developed specialized underwater torches for fishermen and headlamps for rubber tappers, showcasing their dedication to serving a wide array of customer needs. This commitment extends beyond ordinary consumers to include professionals as well. Mr. Light’s influence spans various aspects of life, including the provision of lighting solutions for the military and law enforcement agencies.
The brand takes immense pride in its ability to meet the varied lighting requirements of customers in different areas, reflecting its versatility and dedication to inclusivity. This holistic approach to product development and customer service underscores Mr. Light’s enduring commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals across diverse communities.

Origin and Success Story:
Gafoor’s journey from the Gulf to Kerala and back epitomizes Mr. Light’s evolution. Launching in 2004 with merely 5-6 employees, their company underwent remarkable growth, swelling to around 300 employees by 2015-16 and establishing a significant footprint in Kerala. This trajectory of expansion prompted them to diversify their offerings, resulting in the introduction of an extensive catalog of over 1,000 lighting products, meticulously designed to cater to the evolving preferences of their consumers.
Despite the prevalence of built-in flashlight features in smartphones today, Mr. Light’s commitment remains to offer superior, specialized lighting solutions, including high-quality, long-range flashlights and rechargeable bed lamps. At the heart of Mr. Light’s success lies their unwavering dedication to innovation and their ability to adapt to the changing market demands and consumer preferences.

Global Vision and Collective Success
Before the inception of the Mr. Light brand, the core idea was to materialize a vision into tangible products that not only fulfill market demands but also become integral to people’s daily routines. In every field, individuals gather expertise over time and nurture the ambition to utilize their skills in a manner that contributes positively to society. Each startup is born out of a distinct vision or motivation. Initially, challenges are inevitable; nearly everyone possesses some form of talent, yet often, it’s the fear of failure that hinders people from pursuing their dreams. This apprehension, the fear of losing what one already has, leads many to settle for conventional employment rather than entrepreneurial endeavors.
Embarking on a business venture is more than a mere short-term pursuit; it demands lifelong commitment and absolute devotion. Entrepreneurs frequently stress the importance of sacrifice, underscoring that entering the entrepreneurial world requires enduring persistence and ceaseless dedication. From their experience, achieving success is not just about having confidence in one’s capabilities but also about recognizing and capitalizing on one’s unique strengths. Throughout their journey, time became a precious resource as they dedicated themselves to various facets of business growth, ranging from product innovation to devising marketing strategies.
Many of their innovative ideas have emerged in the most unexpected and peculiar circumstances. For instance, the concept for the Glory Spot Series torch was inspired by nostalgic memories of a mouth organ, which served as a muse. Similarly, the idea for the underwater torch came during a flight delay, as they found themselves captivated by the sight of an airplane propeller through the window. By drawing on these everyday moments for inspiration, they’ve succeeded in developing products that not only satisfy customer needs but also distinguish themselves in the competitive market landscape.

Abdul Gafoor Mr Light
Abdul Gafoor

Future Plans and Team-Centric Success
Looking ahead, Mr. Light envisions an expansion beyond its core focus on lighting solutions to embrace a comprehensive array of home-related products worldwide. With a current presence in 26 countries, the brand is steadfast in its commitment to extending its international reach through ongoing innovation and the consistent introduction of new products. While maintaining a keen focus on meeting consumer needs and providing exceptional value, Mr. Light aims to solidify its position as a global leader in the home appliance market.
At the heart of Mr. Light’s success lies its team-centric approach, where every member plays a vital role in the company’s growth and development. While the founder underscores the importance of passion and consumer perspective in product design, he acknowledges that the relentless effort and dedication of the entire team are instrumental in driving the company forward. This collaborative ethos ensures that Mr. Light’s aspirations are translated into tangible outcomes, with each milestone serving as a testament to the collective efforts of the team.

Navigating Business and Family Dynamics
In 2000, he embarked on a journey of family life, marrying his wife, Razina, and together they have been blessed with three wonderful children. Their family dynamic revolves around their eldest son, Mohammad Rayan, who is currently immersed in his Plus Two studies, alongside their daughter, Ayesha, navigating her fourth-grade adventures, and their youngest, three-year-old Fatima, discovering the world around her. Razina’s invaluable support and her adept management of household matters play a pivotal role in the smooth operation of his business endeavors. Her unwavering dedication and sacrifices form the cornerstone of his professional accomplishments, underscoring the vital role she plays in their family’s success.

Despite the demanding nature of their schedules, they prioritize moments of togetherness during leisure time, particularly on Sundays and holidays. As their children’s educational pursuits become increasingly intensive, they adapt their routines to ensure a harmonious balance between professional commitments and family life. This strategic approach enables them to optimize their family time while fulfilling both work and personal obligations. For instance, leveraging opportunities like his son’s school holiday in April, coinciding with a planned business trip to China, not only strengthens their familial bonds but also provides practical learning experiences. Such practices exemplify their commitment to maximizing quality time together while navigating the demands of both business and family life.

In Abdul Gafoor’s odyssey with Mr. Light, the guiding principle remains unwavering—illuminate lives, one innovation at a time. As Mr. Light continues to shine on the global stage, Gafoor’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.

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Roberto Cavalli: Italian fashion designer dies aged 83

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Renowned Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli, famous for his vibrant animal prints on leather and textiles, has passed away at the age of 83. The announcement was made by his eponymous fashion house on Instagram, though no further details were provided. According to Italian news agency ANSA, he died at his home in Florence after battling a prolonged illness.

Cavalli, who founded his company in the 1970s, leaves behind a legacy of iconic designs worn by luminaries such as Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren, Kim Kardashian, and Jennifer Lopez. Fausto Puglisi, the creative director of Roberto Cavalli, expressed his reverence for the late designer, calling him “a beacon of inspiration for others” and describing working with him as the pinnacle of his career.

Born in Florence on November 15, 1940, Cavalli was renowned for his maximalist approach to fashion, incorporating not only animal prints but also hippie dresses, sand-blasted jeans, and denim patchwork into his collections. He even ventured into designing the Playboy Bunnies’ uniforms, infusing them with his signature leopard print.

When asked about his affinity for animal prints, Cavalli credited nature as his inspiration, marveling at the intricate patterns found in creatures like fish, snakes, and tigers. He regarded God as the ultimate designer and sought to emulate nature’s beauty in his creations.

Giorgio Armani, the founder of Armani, paid tribute to Cavalli’s distinctive style, describing him as a “true artist” whose “Tuscan verve” would be sorely missed. Armani praised Cavalli’s ability to translate fantasy into alluring garments, highlighting his mastery of prints and his boundless creativity.

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Russia Kazakhstan floods: High water levels swamp Orenburg houses

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Severe flooding has struck Orenburg, Russia, with water levels soaring two meters above critical levels, leaving rooftops barely visible. The mayor has urged residents to evacuate immediately as sirens blare throughout the city. The crisis is expected to worsen, extending to neighboring regions, including Kazakhstan, where 100,000 people have already been displaced.

This flood is deemed the worst in 80 years, triggered by rivers, notably the Ural, overflowing due to rapid snow and ice melt exacerbated by heavy rains. Orenburg, with a population of half a million, faces unprecedented evacuations and extensive property damage, while downstream areas like Orsk grapple with their own challenges following dam breaches.

Further east, rivers like the Ishim and Tobol are rising to perilous levels, with floodwaters threatening northern Kazakhstan and prompting evacuations. Efforts to reinforce dams and declare states of emergency in affected regions are underway, yet the scale of this disaster surpasses anything witnessed in recent memory.

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Polish MPs debate liberalising right to abortion on demand

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Poland’s MPs recently engaged in a significant debate over potentially granting women the right to abortion on demand, marking a departure from discussions of the sort in over three decades. Despite expectations of strong emotions given Poland’s devout Catholicism, the attendance was notably sparse, with many MPs from both the opposition and government failing to show up.

Although women constitute only 29% of the Sejm, the lower house of parliament, the majority of speakers in the debate were women. The discussion revolved around potentially liberalizing one of the EU’s strictest abortion laws, which currently permits the procedure only in cases of maternal health risk, rape, or incest.

While public opinion increasingly supports expanded abortion access, politicians have been hesitant to act. The previous Law and Justice-led government, supported by the Catholic Church, had actually tightened abortion restrictions in 2020, sparking widespread protests across the nation.

The ruling by the Constitutional Tribunal, which deemed abortion due to severe and irreversible fetal abnormalities unconstitutional, led to outrage and sustained demonstrations. Several women have died in hospitals since then, as doctors refused to perform necessary abortions, even when the mother’s life was at risk.

Outside the parliament, anti-abortion protesters expressed their views in stark terms, likening liberal ministers to Adolf Hitler and employing provocative imagery. Inside, MPs presented contrasting viewpoints, with some arguing for abortion as a woman’s right, while others contended that it’s not universally supported among Polish women.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk has committed to introducing abortion on demand, but his coalition government is divided over the extent of liberalization. Various proposals, ranging from abortion up to 12 weeks to decriminalization of abortion assistance, have been put forward by different factions within the coalition.

However, achieving consensus on this contentious issue won’t be easy, with opposition from conservative elements and the potential for a presidential veto by Andrzej Duda, who aligns with Catholic beliefs. Ultimately, the fate of these proposals remains uncertain pending further parliamentary deliberation and potential presidential intervention.

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France beefs up security as Paris Olympics approach

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Amid concerns over potential Islamic State (IS) threats to European sporting events, including a recent online warning, French authorities have intensified security measures in Paris. This move coincides with worries about the safety of upcoming events such as the Champions League quarter-final match and the impending Olympic Games.

While Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin acknowledged the elevated threat level, he also emphasized France’s experience in countering extremist activities, citing recent foiled attacks. Despite the heightened security, some fans remain undeterred, expressing a determination not to let fear dictate their lives.

Across Europe, governments are grappling with the growing threat posed by IS-K, particularly in light of the upcoming European Football Championship. Germany, in particular, has ramped up security measures, including border checks, amidst concerns over internal security.

Balancing security concerns with maintaining a sense of normalcy presents a challenge for France, especially with the Olympics fast approaching. While some voices caution against overreacting to IS threats, others stress the importance of not yielding to fear and maintaining public confidence.

France’s extensive experience with Islamist incidents has led to the deployment of significant security forces, including Operation Sentinelle and military personnel. Despite assurances from security officials, concerns persist, compounded by tensions with Russia and its alleged efforts to undermine French credibility through cyber campaigns.

President Macron has warned of Russia’s potential to disrupt the Olympics through various means, including cyber operations aimed at spreading misinformation. The French government has publicly denounced attempts to manipulate public opinion, attributing such actions to Kremlin-backed efforts to sow discord.

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EU approves major overhaul of migration rules

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After years of negotiations, the European Parliament has approved a significant reform aimed at tightening the EU’s migration and asylum regulations. The EU Asylum and Migration Pact, which has been in development since 2015, is set to become effective in two years’ time. Its objectives include expediting the asylum process, enhancing the repatriation of irregular migrants to their home countries, and establishing a system of shared responsibility among EU member states for asylum seekers.

Last year, there was a notable increase in illegal border crossings within the EU, prompting the need for such reforms. The pact, though met with some opposition from certain member states, is expected to gain full approval by the end of April through majority voting.

Under the proposed rules, EU countries will be obligated to either accept a quota of migrants from frontline countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain, or provide additional financial aid or resources. Additionally, the pact emphasizes swift processing of asylum claims, particularly those deemed to have low chances of approval, and aims to reach decisions within a maximum of 12 weeks. Forcible returns of rejected asylum seekers to their home countries would also need to occur within the same timeframe.

The pact introduces stricter pre-entry screening procedures within seven days of arrival, including biometric data collection for migrants aged six and above. It also establishes mechanisms to address sudden influxes of migrants.

The pact received support from the two main political groups in the European Parliament, although it faced opposition from some left-wing and far-right factions, as well as NGOs. Critics argue that the agreement may lead to increased suffering for asylum seekers, particularly those with low chances of acceptance, who might undergo processing on border islands or in detention facilities with limited access to fair procedures.

Despite its imperfections, many MEPs saw the pact as a workable compromise, acknowledging its significance in addressing the challenges of migration within the EU. However, concerns remain regarding the potential consequences of expedited processes and increased detention.

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