Argus News - Highlights/ News Headlines, April 12

Asha Bhosle Passes Away

Legendary singer Asha Bhosle died at 92 in Mumbai on Sunday. She was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital a day earlier. Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar confirmed her death. Last rites will be held at Shivaji Park at 4 pm Monday.

PM Pays Tribute

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled Asha Bhosle’s death, calling her one of India’s most iconic voices. He said her decades-long musical journey enriched cultural heritage and her songs carried timeless brilliance, touching hearts worldwide.

PM Pushes Women’s Quota Bill

PM Narendra Modi wrote to floor leaders seeking support for Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. The Bill proposes 33% reservation for women in legislatures. A special Parliament session from April 16 will take up its implementation before 2029 polls.

BJP Issues Whip

Bharatiya Janata Party issued a whip directing MPs to attend April 16–18 special session to fast-track 33% women’s reservation. The 2023 law awaits delimitation and census; Centre plans bills to enable implementation before 2029 elections.

Amarnath Yatra From July 3

Amarnath Yatra will run from July 3 to August 28, lasting 57 days, 19 days longer than 2025. Registration opens April 15 via 554 bank branches. Pilgrims aged 13–70 can travel via Pahalgam or Baltal routes to the 3,880-metre shrine.

SJTA Warns ISKCON

Shree Jagannath Temple Administration cautioned International Society for Krishna Consciousness against holding Rath Yatra and Snana Yatra on non-traditional dates. The body said overseas events violate prescribed rituals and warned legal steps may be considered if the practice continues.

Iran-US Talks End Without Deal

Iran Speaker Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf said US failed to gain trust during ceasefire talks in Pakistan. US Vice President JD Vance left Islamabad after talks ended without agreement despite offering a “final” proposal.

BCCI Flags Protocol Breach

Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder violated rules by using a phone in the dugout during IPL 2026 vs RCB in Guwahati. Mobile phones are banned in Players and Match Officials Area.