government 12 - The Latremie Post

Maharashyra DyCM Eknath Shinde Hails GST Slab Cuts As Boost To Sales, Jobs And Atmanirbhar Bharat

The Modi government’s recent reductions in Goods and Services Tax (GST) slabs are poised to bring substantial benefits to the Indian economy, including increased revenue, higher sales, and accelerated job creation. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde highlighted these advantages during the GST Savings Festival event held in Mumbai’s Kalbadevi area.

**A Significant Step Towards Atmanirbhar Bharat**

Speaking at the event, Shinde emphasized that the GST reforms mark a significant stride towards realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). These reforms also align with the goal of fostering a Swadeshi (indigenous) economy, strengthening domestic industries and reducing dependence on imports.

**Simplified GST Structure**

Effective from September 22, 2025, coinciding with the festive occasion of Navratri, the GST reforms simplify the tax regime by consolidating most rates into just two slabs: 5% and 18%. The previous 12% and 28% categories have been removed for a majority of goods.

This overhaul impacts around 375 items, making everyday essentials such as soaps, toothpaste, Indian breads, electronics, automobiles, and even medicines more affordable for consumers. Additionally, the changes reduce compliance burdens for businesses.

A notable highlight of the reforms is the complete waiver of GST on medicines. Taxes on gyms, salons, yoga services, and man-made fibres have also been slashed from 18% to 5%, enhancing competitiveness in the textiles sector and boosting exports.

**Direct Impact on Consumers and Businesses**

During the GST Savings Festival, Shinde engaged with local traders in Kalbadevi, Mumbai’s bustling commercial hub, explaining the benefits of the GST rate cuts. He urged traders to pass on these savings to customers, emphasizing that reduced taxes will spur production, increase sales, and create employment opportunities.

“When taxes decrease, sales rise, production increases, and job creation gets a fillip. With GST on medicines fully removed and overall rates lowered, revenue will grow, giving momentum to the national economy,” Shinde told reporters.

**Driving Self-Reliance and Strengthening Defense**

Shinde linked these reforms to broader national objectives, particularly in reducing reliance on foreign equipment in the defense sector. “Domestic production of missiles and defense materials will become easier, marking a giant leap towards self-reliance,” he added.

He also praised GST’s role in elevating India’s global economic standing. Highlighting that India has advanced from the world’s 11th to 4th largest economy, Shinde expressed confidence in achieving third place soon and realizing a developed India by 2047.

**Engagement with Traders in Kalbadevi**

The event provided an opportunity for Shinde to interact with members of the historic Hindustan Chamber of Commerce, one of Kalbadevi’s oldest trader bodies. He reassured traders of the Maharashtra state government’s support in addressing any challenges related to GST implementation.

“If there are any issues with GST enforcement, the Maharashtra government will certainly address them,” Shinde affirmed.

**Notable Dignitaries in Attendance**

Prominent attendees included Member of Parliament Milind Deora, Shiv Sena’s Sushibai Shah, Hindustan Chamber of Commerce President Sushil Gadia, Ramkishor Dark, Mahendra Jain, Amrit Khevasara, Anurag Poddar, former MLA Raj Purohit, Shiv Sena’s Rajaram Deshmukh, and several local traders.

—

These GST reforms pave the way for a more streamlined tax system, consumer-friendly pricing, and a robust economy aligned with the country’s vision for self-reliance and sustainable growth.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashyra-dycm-eknath-shinde-hails-gst-slab-cuts-as-boost-to-sales-jobs-and-atmanirbhar-bharat

Vodafone Idea files amended petition in SC seeking AGR relief

**Vodafone Idea Files Amended Petition in Supreme Court Seeking AGR Relief**
*By Mudit Dube | Sep 29, 2025, 04:36 PM*

Vodafone Idea (Vi) has filed an amended petition in the Supreme Court, seeking a waiver of interest and penalty on its adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues. The company has also requested a recalculation of its AGR liabilities, citing previous cases where similar demands were accepted.

This latest petition marks a change from Vi’s earlier plea, which focused solely on recalculating AGR liabilities without addressing interest and penalties.

### Hearing Postponed to October 6

Last week, the Supreme Court adjourned the hearing on Vi’s plea to October 6. During the proceedings, the Centre expressed that it does not oppose Vi’s petition but emphasized the need for a solution, noting that the government itself is an equity holder in the company.

The hearing relates to the Department of Telecom’s (DoT) demand of ₹5,606 crore for the financial year 2016-17 against Vodafone Idea.

### Legal Arguments and Additional Relief Sought

In its amended petition, Vi contended that the dues in question were already “crystallized” by the 2019 AGR judgment and thus should not be reopened. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, requested the adjournment to October 6.

Vodafone Idea cited earlier court judgments where waivers on interest and penalties had been granted. The company has now asked for additional relief, seeking that interest, penalty, and interest on penalties on principal AGR dues not be payable.

### Background: The AGR Case and Its Significance

The case originates from the Supreme Court’s March 18, 2020 order, which upheld AGR dues up to FY17 as calculated by the DoT, barring any reassessment by telecom operators. Despite this ruling, the DoT has raised fresh claims for FY18 and FY19.

Vi argues that much of the new demand overlaps with periods already settled by the apex court.

### Government’s Equity Stake in Vodafone Idea

As part of a financial restructuring, the Central government now holds a 48.99% stake in Vodafone Idea, having converted ₹53,083 crore of dues into equity.

Of the fresh demand totaling ₹9,450 crore, ₹2,774 crore pertains to the Idea Group and Vodafone Idea (post-merger), while ₹6,675 crore relates to the Vodafone Group for the pre-merger period.

### Outstanding AGR Dues and Liabilities

Vodafone Idea already owes ₹83,400 crore in AGR dues, with annual installments of ₹18,000 crore set to begin from March. Including penalties and interest, the company’s total liabilities to the government are estimated at around ₹2 lakh crore.

—

*This ongoing AGR dispute remains critical, given its large financial implications for Vodafone Idea and the telecom sector at large.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/vodafone-idea-files-amended-petition-for-agr-relief-in-sc/story

Indore News: 52% Candidates Take Mining Officer Exam

**Indore (Madhya Pradesh):** Nearly 52 percent of candidates appeared for the Mining Officer exam conducted by the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MPPSC) on Sunday. Due to the low number of applicants, MPPSC designated only one exam center at SGSITS, Indore.

Out of 625 registered candidates, 325 took the exam, marking an attendance rate of 52 percent. The examination was held under a new syllabus and revised pattern after several years. Candidates found the questions comparatively easy, especially in the general studies section, which covered current affairs, history, geography, economics, and state-specific topics related to Madhya Pradesh.

The second paper tested subject knowledge in geology and mining. This year, the Commission introduced negative marking, with one mark deducted for every four incorrect answers.

The exam lasted from 12 noon to 3 pm, with candidates arriving an hour early. Security measures were strictly implemented and included frisking, biometric verification, and photo identification checks before entry. Officials confirmed that no cases of malpractice were reported during the examination.

Subject experts suggest that the relative ease of the paper may push the cutoff score as high as 70 to 80 percent. Results are expected to be declared within a month, by the first week of November, after the evaluation of OMR sheets.

This recruitment drive by the Department of Mineral Resources was announced for just 10 vacancies.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/indore-news-52-candidates-take-mining-officer-exam

White House Insider Buck Sexton: “Trump’s Next Move Will Shock the World”

(Note: Thank you for supporting businesses like those presenting a sponsored message below and ordering through the links below, which benefits Gateway Pundit. We appreciate your support!)

By Buck Sexton

I just returned from a private interview at the Biltmore Hotel, where I shared a chilling prediction regarding a major plan currently developing inside the Trump administration.

See, I have had direct access to top-level defense and national security officials—Pete Hegseth, Tulsi Gabbard, Marco Rubio, and others. This is why I was recently invited to a sit-down meeting with President Trump and Vice President Vance inside the West Wing of the White House. What I learned there gave me chills.

That’s why, today, I’ve decided to give a rare interview breaking down something I believe every American needs to hear—especially investors.

It’s not about tariffs, crypto, or the Fed, or anything else you’re hearing ad nauseam from the mainstream press right now. It’s about a radical move I believe Trump is going to make as soon as October 15—one that could shock the world.

Because I believe it could single-handedly reshape the global order, dramatically increase U.S. power, and trigger a massive American market boom the likes of which we haven’t seen in 75 years.

President Trump himself said this is all about one thing: igniting what he calls the most extraordinary boom the world has ever seen.

This is a rare opportunity, folks, and I’m bringing it to you on a silver platter—long before anyone else gets wind of it. Take it while you can.

Because once this story and opportunity hits the mainstream, it could be too late to act.

You deserve this. Get the details here now.
https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/09/white-house-insider-buck-sexton-trumps-next-move-5/

Forty-seven Democrats sign letter calling for US to recognize a Palestinian state

**Forty-Seven Democrats Call on U.S. to Recognize Palestinian State**

A group of 47 Democratic lawmakers, led by Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA), has signed a letter urging President Trump and Senator Marco Rubio to support the recognition of a Palestinian state. This move highlights growing calls within the Democratic Party to advance Palestinian statehood as part of efforts to achieve a lasting peace in the region.

In addition to this letter, some lawmakers have proposed an alternative approach involving an Arab League-led peace deal, emphasizing the need for broader regional cooperation.

Representative Ro Khanna was recently seen walking ahead of a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on a stopgap spending bill aimed at averting a partial government shutdown scheduled to begin on October 1. The vote took place on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., on September 19, 2025.

*Photo Credit: Reuters/Kent Nishimura*

By MICHAEL STARR
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-868836

Trump’s Latest ‘Epstein Distraction’?: Prez Orders Release of Amelia Earhart Files… as He Ignores Public’s Pleas to Reveal Info on Sex Offender

**President Donald Trump Orders Declassification of All Government Records Related to Amelia Earhart**

*Published: September 27, 2025, 12:45 p.m. ET*

President Donald Trump has announced that his administration will declassify and release all government records connected to Amelia Earhart, the legendary aviation pioneer who vanished during her world flight attempt in 1937, RadarOnline.com reports.

On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote,
*”I am ordering my Administration to declassify and release all Government Records related to Amelia Earhart, her final trip, and everything else about her. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”*

**Background on Amelia Earhart’s Disappearance**

Amelia Earhart disappeared along with her navigator, Fred Noonan, on July 2, 1937, while flying her Lockheed 10-E Electra across the South Pacific. It is widely believed that their aircraft ran out of fuel near Howland Island; however, the exact circumstances of her disappearance have remained a mystery and the subject of speculation for decades.

Trump added,
*”I have been asked by many people about the life and times of Amelia Earhart, such an interesting story, and would I consider declassifying and releasing everything about her, in particular, her last, fatal flight!”*

**Honoring an Aviation Pioneer**

Trump praised Earhart as *“an Aviation Pioneer, the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, and achieved many other Aviation ‘firsts.’”* At the time of her disappearance, Earhart was 39 years old and was attempting to become the first woman to fly around the world.

He continued,
*”Amelia made it almost three-quarters around the World before she suddenly, and without notice, vanished, never to be seen again. Her disappearance, almost 90 years ago, has captivated millions.”*

**The Search and Theories Surrounding Her Fate**

Earhart’s disappearance triggered an unprecedented search effort by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, costing the equivalent of $88 million in today’s dollars. Despite the massive operation, no trace of Earhart or her plane was found. She was declared legally dead in 1939, 18 months after her last flight.

Over the years, many theories have emerged about her fate:
– Some suggest Earhart landed safely but was captured by Japanese forces.
– Others believe she and Noonan survived a crash but later died stranded on a remote island.
– Another theory posits that she was on a secret spy mission, with her plane equipped with cameras to monitor Japanese military buildup in the South Pacific.

**Legacy and Continued Interest**

Decades later, Amelia Earhart’s story continues to inspire and fascinate. In 2024, deep-sea explorers revealed sonar images of what appeared to be an aircraft near her last known location. However, the object was ultimately identified as a rock.

The Trump administration has a precedent for declassifying significant historical documents, having previously released large sets of files related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr.

With this new announcement, many hope that the mystery surrounding Amelia Earhart’s final flight may finally come closer to being solved.
https://radaronline.com/p/donald-trump-epstein-distraction-amelia-earhart-files-publics-pleas/

Sarkozy jailing reignites debate over French political justice ahead of Le Pen appeal

Former president Nicolas Sarkozy’s prison sentence has deepened divisions in France over the judiciary’s handling of political wrongdoing, just months before far-right leader Marine Le Pen attempts to overturn her own embezzlement conviction and run for the country’s top office.

A court in Paris shocked the political landscape on Thursday by handing Mr. Sarkozy a five-year prison sentence for criminal conspiracy related to efforts to raise campaign funds from Libya. Should the sentence be enforced, he will become France’s first post-war president to be imprisoned.

Ludovic Friat, president of the USM—the largest union representing French prosecutors and judges—said the ruling demonstrated that no one is above the law, even if some question the court’s motivation. “There will clearly be a before and after this decision,” he said. “In high-profile political-financial trials, some inevitably see judges stepping onto the political stage. What I regret is that too often, this becomes a smokescreen that diverts attention from the offences actually committed.”

### Judges Cracking Down on Political Wrongdoing

As Mr. Sarkozy left the court, he reiterated his innocence and warned that the ruling could undermine public trust in the judiciary. “What happened today is of extreme gravity in regard to the rule of law, and for the trust one can have in the justice system,” he said.

His prison sentence is enforceable immediately. The former president was given a short period to arrange his affairs but is not allowed to avoid imprisonment while awaiting appeal—a contrast to how some French politicians have handled similar situations in the past.

Appeals in such cases can take years, often fueling a perception of impunity among the powerful. As a result, judges are increasingly issuing “provisional execution” sentences that begin immediately, according to lawyers and politicians who spoke to Reuters.

“For several decades, there has been a growing democratic demand for integrity among elected officials,” said Judith Allenbach, president of another judicial union. She added that 89 percent of jail terms over two years are enforced before any appeals process and highlighted that judges are implementing laws passed by parliament mandating tougher penalties for political crimes.

Reflecting the mounting tensions, the Paris prosecutor’s office announced on Saturday that it had launched investigations into threats directed at the lead judge in Mr. Sarkozy’s case. The judge who presided over Ms. Le Pen’s conviction earlier this year has also received threats and has been placed under police protection.

### What Does This Mean for Marine Le Pen?

Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally (RN), was convicted of embezzling EU funds in March. She received a five-year political ban that currently bars her from running in the 2027 presidential election. Like Mr. Sarkozy, she was given a provisional execution of the sentence.

Le Pen’s appeal is scheduled for January and will determine whether she remains eligible to run in 2027. She criticized Mr. Sarkozy’s conviction, stating that the increasing use of provisional execution by certain courts “represents a great danger.”

Judicial sources have emphasized that the cases of Le Pen and Sarkozy are distinct, and it is impossible to predict how one ruling might affect the other.

Mr. Friat affirmed that the Sarkozy ruling shows judges remain steadfast in their fight against political corruption. “I can understand her concern,” he said regarding Ms. Le Pen’s stance, while noting that the outcome of her appeals process remains uncertain.

Le Pen’s supporters argue that right-wing politicians face harsher judicial treatment. They point to the case of former centrist prime minister François Bayrou, who was acquitted last year of fraud allegations related to EU fund misuse.

Le Pen’s legal struggles have also drawn international attention. Former US President Donald Trump called her a victim of “lawfare” and sent a diplomatic delegation to offer support.

### Calls for Judicial Reform and Debate

Brigitte Bareges, a right-wing former mayor who was convicted of embezzlement in 2021 and given a provisional political ban (later acquitted on appeal), criticized the justice system. “What we see today is that the justice system, or at least a part of it, has become the weapon of those in power,” she said. “Once, I had faith in justice; today, I’m afraid.”

The justice ministry has not responded to requests for comment on Bareges’ remarks.

Following Sarkozy’s conviction, conservative Senate chief Gérard Larcher acknowledged growing societal debate over the provisional execution of convictions before appeals are exhausted. “I share this concern,” he said.

However, left-wing lawmakers applauded the verdict. Manuel Bompard of the France Unbowed party stressed, “The requirement to be honest and respect the law is not reserved for the public. It also applies to those in power.”

Amid mounting calls to repeal the provisional execution measure, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu told *Le Parisien* on Friday that “if a law gives rise to debate, it is up to parliament to address it.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/update-1-sarkozy-jailing-reignites-debate-over-french-political-justice-ahead-of-le-pen-appeal-1811902.html

Meet Lisa Monaco, Microsoft executive Trump wants to see fired

**Meet Lisa Monaco, Microsoft Executive Trump Wants Fired**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 27, 2025, 11:36 AM*

US President Donald Trump has publicly called on Microsoft to terminate Lisa Monaco, the company’s head of global affairs. Trump labeled Monaco a “menace” to national security and linked his demand for her dismissal to ongoing legal cases against him.

Lisa Monaco was appointed as Microsoft’s head of global affairs in June 2025. Prior to joining Microsoft, she served in prominent roles within the Barack Obama and Joe Biden administrations, including as Deputy Attorney General under Biden and national security advisor under Obama. Notably, Monaco played a key role in coordinating the Justice Department’s response to the January 6 Capitol attack.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Monaco as “corrupt and totally Trump deranged.” He argued that her previous government roles pose a risk to national security, particularly given Microsoft’s extensive contracts with the US government. Trump also alleged that because of her past actions, Monaco was stripped of all security clearances and lost access to classified national security intelligence.

This demand fits a pattern of Trump targeting individuals and institutions he perceives as political adversaries since his return to office in January 2025. Previously, he pressured Intel’s CEO to resign and sought to influence Disney’s ABC regarding programming content.

Meanwhile, Microsoft faces increasing scrutiny over its contracts with various US government agencies. The company has also come under fire for limiting access to certain cloud services to a unit of the Israeli military after reviews into alleged surveillance practices.

Despite the controversy, Monaco’s LinkedIn profile confirms her current role at Microsoft. It remains unclear how the company or Monaco herself will respond to Trump’s call for her firing.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently attended a White House dinner with President Trump and other tech industry leaders, highlighting ongoing engagement between the tech giant and the US administration amid the unfolding situation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-demands-microsoft-fire-global-affairs-head/story

NBCC holds 65th Annual General Meeting

**NBCC (India) Ltd Showcases Strong Growth and Strategic Vision at 65th AGM**

NBCC (India) Ltd, the State-owned Navratna Enterprise, is poised to capitalize on the increased government impetus towards infrastructure development. At the 65th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 24th September 2025 at East Kidwai Nagar, K.P. Mahadevaswamy, Chairman and Managing Director of NBCC (India) Limited, highlighted the company’s key achievements during the financial year 2024-25. He also outlined the various opportunities the company is pursuing in both domestic and international markets.

### Leadership and Attendance

The meeting was attended by other members of the NBCC Board, including Saleem Ahmad, Director (Projects); Suman Kumar, Director (Commercial); Anjeev Kumar Jain, Director (Finance); and Government Nominee Directors Sanjeet, Joint Secretary & Financial Advisor, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India; Ravi Kumar Arora, Joint Secretary (Land & Estates). Independent Directors Bhimrao Panda Bhosale, Deepak Singh, Rajeev Kumar, Vishal Puri, and Smt. Deepti Gambhir, Company Secretary, NBCC, were also present.

### Financial Performance

NBCC posted a consolidated revenue of Rs 12,038.57 crore, marking a 15.68% year-on-year growth. The consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) reached Rs 557.42 crore, representing an impressive 34.52% increase.

On a standalone basis, revenue stood at Rs 8,725.36 crore. PAT for the standalone entity rose 38.26%, touching Rs 476.11 crore. The company’s consolidated order book surged to Rs 1,20,533 crore, reaffirming NBCC’s leadership in redevelopment, real estate, overseas ventures, and project management consultancy (PMC) works.

### Key Highlights from the CMD’s Address

– **Record Dividend and Bonus Shares:** NBCC declared its highest-ever dividend of Rs 180.90 crore (@67%) and issued 90 crore bonus equity shares in the ratio of 1:2, underscoring its commitment to shareholder value creation.

– **New Business Wins:** The company secured new contracts worth Rs 23,250 crore.

– **Flagship Redevelopment Project Sales:** NBCC achieved complete commercial sales at its flagship redevelopment projects — World Trade Centre, Nauroji Nagar (Rs 13,409 crore), and Downtown, Sarojini Nagar (Rs 1,391 crore), aggregating nearly Rs 14,800 crore.

– **Amrapali Project Progress:** Under the Amrapali mandate, NBCC successfully completed 25,500 housing units and initiated further sales expected to generate Rs 2,353 crore.

– **Global Expansion:** Strengthening its international footprint, NBCC is executing its largest-ever overseas EPC project — 2,000 social housing units in Hulhumale, Maldives, valued at $130 million. This landmark project, funded through EXIM Bank of India under the Government of India’s NEIA framework, symbolizes strong India–Maldives cooperation. The recent inauguration by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India and the Hon’ble President of the Republic of Maldives highlights NBCC’s strategic importance and ability to deliver world-class socially impactful infrastructure globally.

– **New Markets:** The company has expanded operations with a subsidiary in Dubai and is actively exploring opportunities in Uzbekistan and the UAE.

### Focus on Sustainability and Innovation

Anchored in sustainability and digital transformation, NBCC advanced green construction practices and adopted centralized project monitoring systems. The company invested significantly in workforce development, conducting 90 training programmes during the year.

Its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives continued to create positive impact across education, healthcare, sanitation, renewable energy, and skill development sectors.

### Recognition and Awards

NBCC’s excellence was recognized with an ‘Excellent’ MoU rating from the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), securing 2nd rank among all Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and 1st in its sector with a record score of 98.50.

Several iconic projects such as Bharat Mandapam, Vanijya Bhawan, IIM Sambalpur, and AIIMS Bilaspur earned prestigious GRIHA ratings. Awards in digital transformation and cybersecurity further validated NBCC’s growing credentials in technology adoption.

### Commitment to Viksit Bharat Vision

Aligned with the Government of India’s vision for a developed (‘Viksit Bharat’), NBCC remains steadfast in creating sustainable, inclusive infrastructure and delivering long-term value for its stakeholders as a trusted arm of the government.

### Appreciation and Acknowledgment

In conclusion, CMD K.P. Mahadevaswamy expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India, especially the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Department of Public Enterprises, DIPAM, SEBI, Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), as well as all Central and State Government agencies, the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) of India, esteemed clients, valued customers, dedicated employees, and stakeholders. Their continuous support and cooperation have been instrumental in driving NBCC’s progress and success.

NBCC continues to strive for excellence in its core businesses and remains committed to delivering utmost value to its shareholders.

—

*For more updates and detailed information, stay connected with NBCC (India) Limited.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/corporate-gallery/nbcc-holds-65th-annual-general-meeting

FBI fires agents photographed kneeling during 2020 racial justice protest, sources say

WASHINGTON — The FBI has fired agents who were photographed kneeling during a racial justice protest in Washington following the 2020 death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers, three people familiar with the matter said Friday.

The bureau had reassigned the agents last spring but has since terminated their employment, according to the sources who spoke anonymously to The Associated Press due to the sensitive nature of personnel matters. While the exact number of employees fired remains unclear, two sources estimated it to be roughly 20.

The photographs in question showed a group of FBI agents taking a knee in apparent solidarity during one of the demonstrations sparked by Floyd’s May 2020 killing. The death led to a national reckoning over policing and racial injustice, igniting widespread anger after millions of people viewed the arrest on video.

An FBI spokesman declined to comment on the firings Friday.

These terminations come amid a broader personnel purge at the bureau as Director Kash Patel seeks to reshape the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency. Last month, five agents and top-level executives were summarily fired in a wave of ousters that current and former officials say has contributed to declining morale within the bureau.

Among those dismissed was Steve Jensen, who helped oversee investigations into the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Another, Brian Driscoll, served as acting FBI director during the early days of the Trump administration and resisted demands from the Justice Department to provide the names of agents involved in the January 6 investigations.

Chris Meyer, also fired, was the subject of incorrect social media rumors alleging his involvement in the investigation into former President Donald Trump’s retention of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Walter Giardina, another ousted agent, participated in high-profile probes including the investigation into Trump adviser Peter Navarro.

A lawsuit filed by Jensen, Driscoll, and another fired FBI supervisor, Spencer Evans, alleged that Patel acknowledged the likely illegality of firing agents based on the cases they worked but felt powerless to intervene because the White House and Justice Department were determined to remove all agents who investigated Trump.

At a congressional hearing last week, Patel denied receiving orders from the White House regarding personnel decisions and stated that anyone who has been fired simply failed to meet the FBI’s standards.
https://abc7.com/post/fbi-fires-agents-photographed-kneeling-during-2020-racial-justice-protest-following-death-george-floyd-sources-say/17889760/