US TikTok Ban Looms Amid Legal Battles and Political Uncertainty

By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff

G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation

---

Image Source : AFP

TikTok, the popular social media platform owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance, faces an uncertain future in the United States. A potential ban on the app, set to take effect on January 19, 2025, has sparked legal and political controversy, with national security concerns cited as the primary justification. The app’s fate now hangs in the balance as legal challenges progress and newly elected President Donald Trump signals potential intervention.

The debate over TikTok's presence in the US centers on allegations that its Chinese parent company could be compelled by Beijing to share user data. With over 170 million US users, officials argue that TikTok poses a significant national security threat, citing concerns over data privacy and potential misuse of personal information. In April 2024, President Joe Biden signed a bill mandating that ByteDance divest from TikTok within nine months or face a nationwide ban. However, TikTok and ByteDance vehemently deny any connections to the Chinese government or misuse of user data.

ByteDance has mounted multiple legal challenges against the law, arguing that it infringes on constitutional rights, including free speech protections. The company contends that a TikTok ban would not only harm its operations but also have a profound impact on creators and users who rely on the platform for expression and livelihood. ByteDance maintains that banning the app, even temporarily, could disrupt its global operations and significantly diminish user trust.

The US Supreme Court has become a pivotal battleground in this controversy. Arguments scheduled for January 10, 2025, will determine whether the law mandating TikTok's sale violates constitutional protections. The court's decision will influence whether TikTok's operations in the US continue or face an abrupt halt. Amid these proceedings, Donald Trump’s return to the White House adds another layer of complexity. Once a staunch critic of TikTok, Trump now appears to oppose a complete ban, proposing a “political resolution” to address the app’s perceived risks. His legal team has called for a delay in enforcement, hinting at possible negotiations once he takes office on January 20, 2025.

If enforced, a TikTok ban would be unprecedented in scale and impact. Online marketplaces, including Apple’s App Store and Google Play, would be required to remove the app, effectively preventing new downloads in the US. Existing users would lose access to updates, potentially exposing them to security vulnerabilities. This legislative move is part of broader efforts to limit apps linked to adversarial nations, including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Critics, however, argue that such measures risk censorship and curtail free expression.

TikTok’s challenges in the US are not unique. The platform is already banned in India, one of its largest markets before the 2020 prohibition. Governments in countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and Nepal have similarly restricted access to TikTok. In Western nations, including the UK and within EU institutions, TikTok has faced bans on official devices due to security concerns.

The unfolding TikTok saga encapsulates the growing tension between technological innovation, data privacy, and national security. As the January deadline approaches, the app’s future in the US hinges on legal rulings, political decisions, and broader debates over digital sovereignty and global tech regulation.

Sadiq Khan’s Knighthood Sparks Conservative Backlash

Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff

V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Political.

---

Image Source : Graeme Baker

Sadiq Khan’s Knighthood and Mixed Reactions 

London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s knighthood has drawn both praise and sharp criticism, reflecting the divided opinions surrounding his political legacy. Foreign Secretary David Lammy celebrated the recognition, highlighting Khan’s rise from the son of a bus driver to receiving one of the nation’s highest honors. Lammy commended Khan for his efforts to improve London’s air quality, increase council housing, and provide free school meals. 

However, Conservative critics were less enthusiastic, citing issues such as rising knife crime and housing shortages under Khan’s leadership. 

Conservative Criticism: Knife Crime and Housing Targets

Chris Philp, a prominent Conservative figure, condemned the knighthood, pointing to a reported 61% increase in knife crime during Khan’s tenure, missed housing targets, and a 70% rise in council tax as indicators of failure. 

Philp remarked, “Under Sadiq Khan, Londoners have faced a housing crisis and escalating knife crime. Rewarding failure only reinforces Labour’s Party-first mentality, putting the country second.” 

A petition against Khan’s award, organized by Conservative councillor Matthew Goodwin-Freeman, added to the opposition. 

Khan, undeterred by the criticism, remarked, “I don’t expect this to be the last time the Conservatives criticize me.” 

Khan’s Political Journey 

Sadiq Khan began his career as a human rights lawyer before being elected as the Labour MP for Tooting in 2005. In 2016, he became London’s first Muslim mayor, succeeding Boris Johnson, and has since won re-election twice. 

Khan’s tenure has been marked by efforts to tackle air pollution through initiatives like the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and increased investments in social housing, though critics argue these efforts have been overshadowed by rising crime and fiscal challenges. 

Dame Emily Thornberry and Other Honorees 

Dame Emily Thornberry, MP for Islington South since 2005, expressed surprise and honor at being named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Reflecting on the milestone, Thornberry said, “I think of my grandmothers, neither of whom were allowed to work as married women, and I know how utterly delighted they’d be to see this.” 

Thornberry, who once refrained from adopting the title of “Lady Nugee” when her husband was knighted, said she was proud to go by the title of Dame Emily. 

Other Honorees Across the Political Spectrum

Several other political figures received honors in the annual list: 

- Sir Andy Street, West Midlands’ first mayor, described his knighthood as an accolade for the collective efforts in his region. 

- Ranil Jayawardena, former environment secretary, and Marcus Jones, ex-Conservative deputy chief whip, were also knighted. 

- Kate Hollern, a former Labour MP, was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). 

- Lord Mike Katz, chair of the Jewish Labour Movement, was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). 

A Divisive Recognition 

While Sadiq Khan’s knighthood has been celebrated by his supporters as a recognition of his contributions to London, it has also sparked controversy among critics who view his tenure through a more critical lens. The debate surrounding this honor underscores the complexities of public service and political leadership in the capital.

Dolce & Gabbana Redefines Men's Couture Through Alta Sartoria

Diya Upreti, Jadetimes Staff

Diya Upreti is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Fashion news

---

Image Source : CNN

Dolce & Gabbana Redefines Men's Couture Through Alta Sartoria

Italian luxury fashion house Dolce & Gabbana has shaken the haute couture world by introducing men's couture through its Alta Sartoria line. This bold move is not only about creating exquisite garments but also about celebrating Italian cultural heritage and honoring the meticulous craftsmanship that has long been a hallmark of the country's fashion legacy.

Alta Sartoria: A Tribute to Tradition

Alta Sartoria is the other half of Dolce & Gabbana's Alta Moda, blending modernity with the old age traditions. This collection has been made to be treasured by those who prefer exclusivity and quality. It has concentrated on handmade pieces that the brand gives much importance to Italian tailoring artistry, a skill perfected through generations.

Sardinian Showcases: A Cultural Revival

The Alta Sartoria in Sardinia was a fantastic display of authenticity and cultural heritage. The collections were inspired by the rich traditions of Sardinia, the folkloric costumes of which were incorporated into haute couture.

Traditional fabrics including brocades, velvet, and embroidered linen were paired with modern silhouettes. The garments were completed with intricate detailing, with hand-stitched patterns and embellishments in the shape of tributes to Sardinian artisanal techniques.

Dolce & Gabbana also engaged local artisans, so the inspiration was not only part of Sardinian culture but also authentically rooted in it. This collaboration was able to offer an international platform for these artisans who had the chance to get their skills recognized, but at the same time, helped augment a real cultural depth of the collection.

A Commitment to Artisanal Excellence

Alta Sartoria also epitomizes the Dolce & Gabbana doctrine of non-compromise on quality. Each piece is a work of art, crafted laboriously by hordes of skilled artisans. Starting from the finest fabrics right down to finishing thread, every stitch symbolizes the "slow fashion" philosophy espoused by the brand.

This is in strong contrast to the fashion industry of today, which has been mass producing designs. Instead, Dolce & Gabbana focuses on creating bespoke products, thereby emphasizing the point that luxury is not merely about price but also about the time, efforts, and artistry vested into creating something uniquely different.

Preserving Culture Through Fashion

The efforts of Dolce & Gabbana with Alta Sartoria are not about fashion but storytelling. Each piece tells a story of Italy's diverse regions, their traditions, and their heritage. The Sardinian collection, for example, not only captured the imagination of the audience through its beauty but also provoked a conversation about the need to preserve cultural identities in a globalized world.

Looking Ahead

As Dolce & Gabbana continues to widen its Alta Sartoria collection, it seems to set an example of the kind of luxury that fashion can truly be-a mode of cultural expression. The traditional blending with innovations has helped to carve a niche in the segment of men's couture which few can truly rival.

Alta Sartoria reminds one of Dolce & Gabbana, because, in that respect, they bring back memories that fashion is more than mere garments-it's the celebration of art, culture, and identity.