Bollywood luminary Ajay Devgn's recent social media post celebrating the conferment of the Bharat Ratna upon Dr. MS Swaminathan has triggered a wave of controversy, with netizens questioning the actor's stance in relation to the ongoing farmers' protests.

In his tweet, Devgn lauded Dr. Swaminathan as a visionary leader whose agricultural innovations have significantly impacted the nation.

However, a section of social media users has accused Devgn of tacitly supporting the government's agenda and diverting attention from the farmers' agitation.

Critics argue that the actor's conspicuous silence on the farmers' protests, juxtaposed with his endorsement of the Bharat Ratna for Dr. Swaminathan, implies a certain alignment with the government's narrative.

According to these social media users, Devgn's apparent support for the award is viewed as an attempt to overshadow the farmer protests and project an image of governmental concern for agricultural welfare.

The controversy has ignited a heated online debate, with users expressing varying opinions on the actor's motivations and allegiances. Some defend Devgn's right to applaud the recognition of Dr. Swaminathan's contributions, emphasizing the need to separate the individual's achievements from broader political dynamics. Others, however, argue that the actor's timing and choice of subject inadvertently align him with the government's narrative, which seeks to downplay the gravity of the farmers' concerns.

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Bengaluru: The Archdiocese of Bangalore has issued an official statement following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this morning.

The statement, signed by Archbishop Peter Machado, begins: “It is with deep anguish and heavy hearts that we, the faithful of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, join the Universal Church in mourning the sudden and untimely demise of our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, who passed away this morning.”

The Archbishop described the Pope as “not just the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church, but a shepherd, a father, a friend of the poor, and a living embodiment of the Gospel.” The statement continues: “His Papacy [was] marked not by grandeur, but by grace — a grace that reached out to the peripheries of the world.”

Highlighting Pope Francis’ personal lifestyle choices, the statement says: “In his humility, he chose not to reside in the traditional Apostolic Palace, but in the modest Vatican guest house — a choice that echoed the Gospel call to simplicity and solidarity.”

The Archdiocese noted his focus on the marginalized: “One of the most striking hallmarks of Pope Francis’ pontificate was his tireless advocacy for migrants, refugees, and the displaced. He dared the world to see in the face of the migrant not a problem to be solved, but a brother or sister to be embraced.”

Reflecting on his broader legacy, the statement says: “Today, our hearts are broken, but our spirits are lifted in gratitude for the gift of Pope Francis. His gentle presence, his wise counsel, and his radiant smile will live on in the hearts of millions.”

The Archbishop offered condolences on behalf of the local Church: “On behalf of the clergy, religious and faithful of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, I extend my deepest condolences to the College of Cardinals, to the entire Catholic Church, and to all people of goodwill who saw in Pope Francis a beacon of light in troubled times.”

The statement concludes: “May our dear Holy Father now rest in the eternal embrace of the God he served so faithfully. Let us continue to honour his legacy by walking humbly, loving tenderly, and acting justly — just as he did. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.”