National Film Awards Controversy: Jury Member Slams ‘The Kerala Story’ as Propaganda Amid Political Backlash

Thiruvananthapuram, India – National Film Awards jury member Pradeep Nair has voiced strong objections against the inclusion of the film The Kerala Story, which recently won several prestigious awards, including Best Director and Best Cinematography at the 71st National Film Awards. In an interview with a local publication, Nair expressed that the film, helmed by Sudipto Sen, tarnishes the reputation of Kerala and serves as a tool for propaganda. He emphasized that, as a member of the jury, he raised significant concerns about the film. "How could we honor a film that portrays our state … Read more

Russia Hits Apple with Fines Over Alleged Breach of Anti-LGBTQ+ Propaganda Regulations

MOSCOW, Russia — A Moscow court has imposed a substantial fine on tech giant Apple for failing to comply with a controversial law aimed at restricting LGBTQ+ propaganda in the country. This ruling is part of Russia’s broader crackdown on what officials describe as “non-traditional” values, reflecting the government’s increasing efforts to regulate online content. The court ordered Apple to pay 1 million rubles, equivalent to approximately $13,000, as a penalty for breaching these laws. Russian authorities have intensified scrutiny over foreign companies, particularly those in the digital space, which they view as potential conduits … Read more

Kenya Demands TikTok’s Compliance with Privacy and Verification Laws Amid Concerns of Propaganda, Fraud, and Sexual Content

NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya has demanded that TikTok demonstrate its compliance with local privacy and user verification laws, citing concerns over the platform’s role in spreading propaganda, fraud, and explicit content. As regulators worldwide put pressure on social media companies to protect users from harmful content and criminal activities, the Kenyan government has contacted TikTok through the office of the Data Protection Commissioner to address these issues. Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki informed a parliamentary committee that criminals have utilized TikTok to disseminate malicious propaganda and conduct fraudulent activities, including stealing popular accounts through identity theft … Read more

Russian Singer Jailed Under LGBTQ+ Propaganda Laws for Provocative Performance

St. Petersburg, Russia – Maxim Tesli, a Russian singer, has been sentenced to 10 days in jail for violating the country’s LGBTQ+ propaganda laws. The arrest came after Tesli performed a show wearing nothing but a sock on his genitals. Reports suggest that he was planning to leave Russia amidst increasing calls for his arrest, following the viral spread of a video of his performance. After being detained at a St. Petersburg airport on Monday night, Tesli appeared in court the following day. He was charged with petty hooliganism and subsequently sentenced to 10 days … Read more