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Palghar Sadhu lynching: Uddhav Thackeray obeyed Rahul Gandhi’s order to halt the transfer of case to CBI, prevented timely probe, Shiv Sena alleges

OpIndia Staff
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Palghar Sadhu lynching: Uddhav Thackeray obeyed Rahul Gandhi’s order to halt the transfer of case to CBI, prevented timely probe, Shiv Sena alleges

Shiv Sena secretary and spokesperson Kiran Pawaskar has said that Uddhav Thackeray halted the transfer of the Palghar Sadhu lynching case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) when he was the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on the orders of Congress scion Rahul Gandhi.

On 16th April 2020, two Sadhus associated with the Juna Akhara, 70-year-old Kalpavrishka Giri Maharaj and 35-year-old Sushil Giri Maharaj were lynched to death by a mob of over 100 people while they were on the way from Mumbai to Gujarat along with their driver Nilesh Telgadewere, 30, to give Samadhi to another Sadhu.

Videos of the incident showed how the Sadhus were brutally lynched in the presence of the police who not only watched as a mute spectator but handed them over to the mob.

“There’s evidence suggesting that under pressure from Gandhi, Thackeray agreed not to transfer the case to the CBI,” Pawaskar said.

He said, “The murder was committed while Thackeray was sleeping, and the (then) Home Minister (Anil Deshmukh) was busy collecting money, leading to suspicions that the sadhus were murdered at the behest of the Maharashtra government. At that time, Thackeray had given a tepid response and had kept the investigation machinery idle. The government’s reluctance to hand over the Sadhu murder case to the CBI prevented a timely investigation.”

Pawaskar added that the police made no significant progress even after three to four months. “It was because of the Thackeray-led government’s (MVA) inaction that the Akhara leaders demanded the transfer of the case to the CBI. However, Thackeray’s administration opposed transferring the case to the CBI.”

Pawaskar said that only after Eknath Shinde assumed the role of the Chief Minister on 30th June 2022, after nearly two years, a swift decision was reached regarding this issue. “Shinde decided to transfer the Sadhu murder case to the CBI,” Pawaskar said. He added that the Maha Yuti government also announced a financial aid of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased Sadhus.

Notably, five months after the incident, the then Maha Vikas Aghadi government led by Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had submitted an affidavit in the apex court wherein it had opposed the transfer of the Palghar lynching case to the CBI.

The affidavit was submitted days after the Supreme Court sought a response from the then Uddhav Thackeray government on the petitions seeking a CBI and NIA probe into the case of the brutal lynching of Hindu Sadhus in Palghar.

Several reports that emerged in the wake of the bloodcurdling lynching hinted that the brutal murder of the Hindu sadhus may not have been an act of spontaneity but a part of a broader conspiracy designed to eliminate the Hindu priests.

An FIR into the case revealed an ultra-left connection to the lynching as it mentioned that a CPI(M) gram panchayat member had allegedly gathered a mob armed with rods and stones to kill the sadhus.

“The modus operandi by cutting trees and placing boulders to obstruct movement is also a common stratagem used by Naxalites against their preys,” the had FIR mentioned.

Reports also emerged that the killing of the Sadhus may have been intentional and politically motivated. The involvement of Christian Missionary organisations and some local NCP leaders and leftists were also suspected.

Four days after the incident, the case was transferred to the CID, even as demands for a CBI inquiry into the matter steadily gained momentum.

2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Ten things I like about the BJP manifesto and a few I wish were different

Ganesh R
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2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Ten things I like about the BJP manifesto and a few I wish were different

The overarching theme is something many have pointed out – reliance on long-term and medium-term schemes, not reckless freebies. This is not just bold but most sensible. 

Time will tell if voters can see through the fraudulent dynastic promises like the Rs.1 lakh scheme that will never be implemented or destroy the economy if done. The hilarious interview Sanket Upadhyay did with a Congress manifesto committee member, where he could even calculate the enormous sum needed on his phone, even on a conservative basis, illustrates this nicely. It is telling that upper caste NRI academia frauds and enablers of dynastic loot that lecture us from the USA on fiscal stability, inflation etc., choose to remain silent on such fake promises.

But the very fact that BJP has chosen to go this route shows it has the confidence to do so.

What I find encouraging is the humility – no doubt there is a lot of chest-thumping as can be expected in any such paper from any such party. But the frank acceptance that so much more needs to be done is the key. People know this and expect it to be acknowledged. What’s important is to convince them of the importance of staying the course – any regression at this point can destroy what’s been achieved. 

It is also good to see the BJP avoiding the usual woke pet phrases like climate change. It may be real but has been reduced to a joke and a racket. That word appears only once in the entire manifesto and that too in the context of coastal communities which is a valid concern. 

Let us turn to some specifics.

  1. For the middle class, the focus is on exactly what they need – health, education and employment. Not freebies that they know will have to be paid for indirectly. Medical costs can push a middle-class family back into poverty. Instead of doles, the promise to expand AIIMS is heartening. Expanding public healthcare facilities, and medical colleges must be the priority and it is.
  2. A specific promise to build hostels, creches etc for women to join the workforce in bigger numbers. Of course, the corrupt CONLEFT ecosystem will have it both ways – if women don’t join the workforce, it will be spun as joblessness and if they do, it becomes proof of financial distress. It is good to see the BJP moving away from this propaganda trap and embracing increased participation. The public toilet promise is another bold step – small things that make a big difference and no one bothers.
  3. For the youth, the first item itself shows that the BJP cares for the most important. Degrees, whose values are trusted by employers both in India and abroad. We are in a sad situation where some universities and state degrees are worthless overseas. For instance, it is known that Singapore employment pass reviewers just ignore them. They even had to employ independent agents to verify their value! Rampant paper leaks and copying affect the ones studying hard for their certificate. We must change this and make Indian degrees worth their weight in gold.
  4. The promise of investment led employment growth – this is not only sustainable, this is the ONLY way. BJP must educate voters on this crucial aspect. Our working class as well as youth are fed propaganda dreams that defy basic economic sense. Providing government jobs is not the solution except where a shortage of staff exists such as teaching. Anyone who visits a government office will know that’s not the case in most cases!. Doubling of mudra loans to Rs.20 lakhs will help enormously. Especially as bad loans are quite low in these.
  5. Promise to improve crop insurance – many issues have cropped up in this well-intentioned scheme. It must be made to work better. One hopes the rectification will be prompt.
  6. Krishi Infra mission – we are not clear what this means but the very fact that infrastructure is mentioned is heartening – again this follows the BJP script – build the base not throw money at doles. Reducing post-harvest waste can increase farmers’ income in sustainable ways. The point on grain storage that follows seems a repetition, but it is well worth repeating. 
  7. Seaweed, pearl farming for the fishermen. Further proof of thinking out of the box. There is only so much one can wring from traditional fishing especially given reducing fish stocks due to various factors. This is a huge export opportunity if done well. Encouraging consumption locally can also boost nutrition.  
  8. E-Shram has been the focus for workers – especially the unorganised, gig workers and migrant labour. This group requires focussed initiatives. While light on details, one hopes the benefits will be gradually expanded and cover more.
  9. Facilities for truck drivers – again shows how BJP cares for the stuff others don’t bother with or even think about. This is not charity – keeping drivers fresh and alert will reduce accidents, save lives. 
  10. The promise to simplify compliance for MSME – I have been shouting about this for a long and I do hope this will be done in meaningful ways. The best help we can give to MSMEs is freeing them from the clutches of rent-seeking, corrupt babudom.

I do have a few rants that should be familiar to anyone who bothers to read my articles and posts! Let me briefly list them here again.

A more aggressive and specific plan for expanding public healthcare could have been made. 

A specific plan and commitment to remove compliance burden and tax terror and rationalise tax rates. Nothing has been said on GST simplification other than the portal. The next stage of reform-led job creation and growth will require competing with countries that have already done so. 

Public transport – buses play a key role. Other than mention of e-Bus nothing much has been said on this. I wish a more aggressive plan to support public buses is made that will ease the lives of city dwellers, especially Tier 2 and 3 cities and small towns.

One thing we know – BJP does implement what is promised – at any rate far more effectively than others. The ones that didn’t read their manifesto, be it on Article 370 or Ram mandir lived to regret it. Let us hope we live to celebrate the success.

Mira Road, Mumbai: 4-year-old Hindu girl brutally raped, threatened with a knife, accused Md Imran Khan arrested. Here is what the FIR reads

Siddhi Somani
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Mira Road, Mumbai: 4-year-old Hindu girl brutally raped, threatened with a knife, accused Md Imran Khan arrested. Here is what the FIR reads

On 14th April, the Navghar Police station in Mumbai’s Mira Road region filed an FIR against one individual identified as Mohammed Imran Daraj Khan for brutally harassing, threatening, and raping a 4-year-old Hindu girl. The accused runs a chicken shop close to the Orange Hospital on Mira Road and was known to the victim as a neighbor. He often lured the girl with chocolates and biscuits in spite of objections from her father.

The current incident is said to have happened on 7th April, however, it came to the fore only after the girl complained about stomach ache on 14th April, Sunday. On being asked by her father, she revealed what Khan, the owner of the nearby chicken shop had done to her around a week ago and threatened her to keep her mouth shut.

Here’s what exactly happened

As per the complaint filed by the girl’s father, and case details obtained by OpIndia, she was all alone when the incident happened. The father of the victim girl is a barber and owns a shop close to the shop of the accused. The mother of the girl had gone to her maternal home for a few days and hence, her father had been taking care of her.

The accused eventually came to know about this and began luring the girl by giving her chocolates and biscuits. On 7th April, the accused called the girl to his chicken shop, gave her chocolates, and then after some time forced himself upon her. He forcefully took off her pants and inserted his fingers into her private parts resulting in massive bleeding. He then threatened the girl with a huge knife and asked her to keep her shut, failing which he said he would kill her.

The girl got scared and didn’t utter a word. However, the father of the girl noticed some changes in her behavior. “She was strangely quiet and not active as usual. I asked her a couple of times about what happened but she didn’t say a word. Suddenly on Sunday, 14th April, she complained that her stomach was aching. Initially, I thought, it would be because of the heat or she must have eaten something that doesn’t suit her. But she continued complaining and began crying. Later I patiently asked her to know that she had been raped by the chicken shop owner, Khan,” the father of the girl said in the complaint.

The father then informed his other neighbors and immediately took the girl to the hospital. He also then happened to file a police complaint at the Navaghar Police Station. The accused has been booked by the Police under sections 376 (rape), 506 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, and sections 4, 8, and 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. Sections 37 and 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951 have also been imposed on the accused.

The protest began, Hindus lathi-charged

Massive protests began in the Mira Road region on the night of 14th April after the Hindu community and the other localities came to know about the incident. The enraged Hindus held placards demanding justice for the 4-year-old girl. They also demanded death sentence for the accused. However, as per the information obtained by OpIndia, the police launched a lathi-charge on the protesters. Eventually, the FIR was filed.

Images exclusively obtained by OpIndia.com

The minor victim girl has been admitted to the local hospital at present and is undergoing treatment. The police investigations are underway.

There is a section of society in India even today which believes that incidents of Grooming Jihad, communal crimes/acts of violence against Hindus, and conversion of people to Islam is a hoax and that Islamists are unnecessarily ‘targeted’ by the Hindus owing to mythical ‘majoritarianism’. However, the truth is far from it. OpIndia has time and again exposed several such incidents highlighting the sickening mentality of the Islamists against the Hindus.

Recently, in February, OpIndia brought 17 exclusive cases only from the Mira Road region of Mumbai in which almost in every case, Hindu girl children or women were deliberately targeted by the Islamists. The complete report of the 17 cases can be read here.

Harassment of Hindus at the hands of Islamists has become a norm at Mira Road: Sakal Hindu Samaj

The Sakal Hindu Samaj members in an exclusive conversation, informed OpIndia that the Mira Road region in Mumbai is dominated by the Muslim majority population and that the community which claims to be a minority and oppressed is moving to become a problem for the other community residents. 

“Earlier this Mira Bhayander region, Nayanagar area was dominated by the Hindu population. In the past few years, several Muslims from the Mumbra region or even from different cities migrated to this area claiming their dominance. They eventually began harassing Hindus, and their daughters, and now the situation has become worse. Even the police in such cases fail to take stringent action,” one of the members said.

“They (police) just treat these cases like other normal criminal cases and that’s why these Islamists most of the time get a free pass. The police and the local administration should understand the intention of the accused Islamists behind targeting the Hindu girls,” he added.

The accused in the given case has been arrested. The victim is at the hospital. Further investigations are underway.

UP: Muslim mob turns violent after claiming print on doormat resembles ‘Kaaba’, does stone pelting and sloganeering in Balrampur shopping mart

राहुल पाण्डेय
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UP: Muslim mob turns violent after claiming print on doormat resembles ‘Kaaba’, does stone pelting and sloganeering in Balrampur shopping mart

On Friday (12th April), a mob attacked a shopping mart in the Balrampur district of Uttar Pradesh, claiming that an image of the Kaaba in Mecca was on the doormat. This incident escalated tensions within the community. The police, however, said that it was a wall hanging and not a doormat. Subsequently, the mob raised incendiary slogans and pelted stones. However, a major untoward incident was averted due to the police’s proactive presence in the Muslim-dominated Utraula market. Now the police are conducting raids by registering FIR against 50-60 unidentified attackers and examining CCTV footage to identify the perpetrators.

This incident transpired in the Balrampur district’s Utraula police station precinct where the angry mob attacked a shopping mart named V-Bazaar. Akhilesh Jaiswal is the name of the mart’s manager. A mob comprising Muslim youths arrived at the said shopping centre on the 12th of April. They claimed that doormats sold at V-Bazaar featured the image of the Kaaba. In a viral video, the young man is pressuring the manager to bring a doormat. They do, however, receive the response that the doormat will not be sold. In another video, the angry Muslims can be heard saying things like “taking pictures and sending them to a group of journalists.”

Police warn people not to take the law into their own hands

The information obtained by OpIndia suggests that initially, some people arrived at V Bazaar outraged over alleged doormats with Kaaba print. The outraged people and V Bazaar’s manager got into an argument. When the manager realised what was happening, he called the Utraula police station.

Sub Inspector Kislay Mishra arrived at V-Bazaar right away with a few constables. He calmed the irate mob despite being outnumbered and continued to defend the dozens of employees inside the shopping centre. Inspector Utraula Sanjay Dubey arrived there with extra force in the interim. He urged the mob to file a written complaint about their concern and cautioned them against taking the law into their own hands.

SI Kislay Mishra and Inspector Sanjay Dubey’s appeal had a positive effect, and some people came forward to file written complaints. They filed a complaint against the V Mart managing director and a few other staff members. The police filed a formal complaint (FIR) on the complaint of causing hurt to religious sentiments and urged the people to maintain peace. During this time, the administration was alert and handled the situation effectively.

Muslim mob turned violent after a complaint was registered

Even though a complaint was filed at Utraula police station, a mob was hell-bent on resorting to violence, and the police’s appeal had little effect on them. They started gathering in front of V-Bazaar, screaming inflammatory slogans including ‘Allah Hu Akbar’ and ‘Labbaik-Labbaik’ while trying to block the road. The already attentive police force gathered promptly at the scene. Even though they were fewer in number, the police nonetheless assumed command and made an attempt to persuade by using measures like Section 144 execution. However, the police’s vocal admonitions had no influence on the mob.

Police dispersed the irate mob

The angry mob reportedly hurled stones at the V Bazaar store. During the stone pelting, a portion of V-Bazar’s display board was shattered. Some nearby shopowners began lowering their shutters. People closed the windows and doors to their homes for safety. Eventually, the cops chased away the mob determined to violence. As the police officials took strict action, the miscreants fled the spot and the situation reverted to normal.

Police have filed a FIR against 50-60 unnamed assailants under sections 143, 504, 506, 188, 341, 336, and 427 of the IPC, as well as section 7 of the Criminal Law Act of 1932. The miscreants in the mob are being identified using CCTV footage and other information. The day following the incident, markets reopened and people went shopping. In addition to police officers, paramilitary and PAC personnel have been deployed in the area. The market is constantly patrolled by the officials. Currently, the situation in Utraula is normal.

Mob gathered near Gausia Masjid

When OpIndia inspected the matter on the ground, we found that the rowdy elements had congregated near the Gausia Masjid. Gausia Masjid is located in the centre of Utraula Market near V-Bazaar. Even as the police attempted to control the violence, the majority of the perpetrators fled in that direction. When the aggressive mob moved ahead, numerous women employees and customers were present at V-Bazaar. However, owing to the administration’s proactive approach, they were all safe.

“We are grateful to the Police, they protected us”

Speaking to OpIndia, Aman Modanwal, an eyewitness to the violence who runs a sweet shop named Shubham Mishthan Bhandar near the scene said that at the time of the incident, he had closed his shop as a precaution due to the large crowd. Aman has reopened his shop. Aman informed us, “The police performed an excellent job. Who knows what would have occurred if she had been more active?”

Balrampur Police warns of strict action against rumour-mongers

While Balrampur police chased the miscreants away without causing any adverse effects, they also maintained a strict presence on social media to combat rumour-mongering about the incident. Police warned many such rumour mongers on social media and told them to delete the false and misleading claims. OpIndia has numerous screenshots of rumour-mongers who have admitted their mistakes, deleted their posts, and assured that they will not indulge in rumour-mongering.

V-Bazaar runs in a Muslim’s house, outrage over 2 years old stock

OpIndia’s ground investigation also revealed that the house where V-Bazaar is operating is owned by a Muslim. The stock on which the mob resorted to aggression is claimed to be from 2022. V-Bazaar is also looking into how the 2-year-old stock suddenly showed up in the store. In addition, it is being investigated how the mob assembled and the images and videos went viral in such a short time.

Thiruvananthapuram: Model Code of Conduct Nodal Officer issues warning to Shashi Tharoor over cash for votes allegations against Rajeev Chandrasekhar

OpIndia Staff
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Thiruvananthapuram: Model Code of Conduct Nodal Officer issues warning to Shashi Tharoor over cash for votes allegations against Rajeev Chandrasekhar

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) Nodal Officer has issued a warning to Congress candidate Shashi Tharoor for making “unverified allegations” against Union Minister and BJP candidate Rajeev Chandrasekhar. The stern warning was issued on Sunday, 14th April.

As per reports citing the Thiruvananthapuram Nodal Officer, Tharoor made an unverified allegation against Rajeev Chandrasekhar at an interview on a news channel, which violates the Model Code of Conduct. The Congress leader claimed that Chandrasekhar was offering money to voters and religious leaders in exchange for votes.

The MCC Nodal Officer said, “A Complaint was filed by JR Padmakumar, Election Legal Convenor, BJP before the DEO on April 6, alleging that “Unsubstantiated accusations” were made by Sashi Tharoor in a “Meet the Candidate” Interview hosted by 24 News Channel. It was alleged that Sashi Tharoor accused Rajeev Chandrasekhar offering money to voters and religious leaders in exchange of vote. On April 8, another Complaint was filed by VV Rajesh, NDA Convenor, on the same subject matter. He has alleged that Statements made by Sashi Tharoor in the Interview was “Utterly false, Frivolous” and made to defame. Further, He submitted that Sashi Tharoor by making the impugned statement in the interview, has violated Rule 1(2), Rule 1(3) of the MCC and S.123(3) of the RP act,”

On 10th April, Rajeev Chandrasekhar served a legal notice to Tharoor for defamation. Speaking to ANI, he said that Tharoor has flung a lot of allegations at him in desperation.

“One of the allegations is that I am paying money for votes. I have said very clearly that, I will not be drawn into this negative type of politics. However, if anybody defames me and attempts to trespass into an area by telling lies about me, I will certainly not be quiet. I will certainly use all the tools under the law to ensure that that person is held accountable,” Chandrasekhar said.

A day later, Tharoor said he had not received any notice and denied having made any allegations. “I have not received it. I, at no stage, made any allegations. I merely said that this is the talk of the town and that people are talking about it,” Tharoor said.

On 12th April, Tharoor reportedly sought an apology from Chandrasekhar for issuing the defamation notice. “He is not responsible for any other versions of the same program or any editing, post-production changes, studio recordings of casual talks, chats or any other acts that are not intended for broadcasting…My client is not responsible for any ‘slander’ as he has not uttered any,” Tharoor’s lawyer stated.

The Model Code of Conduct came into effect on 16th March after the Election Commission of India announced the dates for the Lok Sabha elections.

Shashi Tharoor’s election campaign has been marred with controversies. On 7th April, a group of Congress workers stopped Tharoor during his campaign and were seen shouting him down and raising slogans “Go back” and “no vote for you”.

Iran-Israel conflict: Blinken dials up Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, asserts US position on ‘avoiding escalation’ in the region

ANI
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Iran-Israel conflict: Blinken dials up Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, asserts US position on ‘avoiding escalation’ in the region

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken on Sunday spoke with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan to discuss the ‘blatant’ and ‘unprecedented’ attack by Iran and its proxies on Israel, US Department of State spokesperson Mathew Miller said.

In conversation with Turkish leader, Secretary Blinken thanked him for his efforts to prevent further escalation in the region.
“@SecBlinken spoke with Turkish Foreign Minister @HakanFidan about yesterday’s blatant and unprecedented attack by Iran and its proxies on Israel. He thanked him for his efforts to prevent further escalation in the region,” Miller posted on X.

The top US official also spoke with his counterparts in Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia following Iran’s attacks in Israel.
During his phone calls, Blinken emphasised the importance of avoiding escalation in the region and the importance of “a coordinated diplomatic response.”

In his conversation with his counterparts in Jordan and Egypt, Blinken also underlined the significance of achieving an “enduring end to the crisis in Gaza.”

Spokesperson Miller shared details about Secretary Blinken’s conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan, saying, “@SecBlinken spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince @FaisalbinFarhan to discuss last night’s unprecedented air attack against military facilities in Israel and to coordinate on a diplomatic response.”

“@SecBlinken and Jordanian Foreign Minister @AymanHsafadi discussed Iran’s unprecedented air attack on Israel and the importance of regional de-escalation,” he added.

Meanwhile, the hours-long Israeli war cabinet meeting ended Sunday night without a decision on how Israel will respond to Iran’s missile and drone attack, CNN reported citing an Israeli official.

The cabinet is determined to respond but has yet to decide on the timing and scope and the official said the military has been tasked with coming up with additional options for a response.

In its first direct attack on Israel on Saturday night, Israel launched more than 300 drones and missiles from its territory towards the Jewish state, triggering air raid sirens throughout Israel on Sunday morning as the country’s advanced air defence intercepted and disabled the projectiles that came its way, the Times of Israel reported.

Notably, Iran and its proxies operating out of Yemen, Syria and Iraq launched more than 300 projectiles at Israel on Saturday night, including dozens of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones. 

(This news report is published from a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has not been written or edited by OpIndia staff)

Prashant Bhushan beats the dead horse again, wants ECI to reveal the source code of EVM, a demand already rejected by Supreme Court

OpIndia Staff
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Prashant Bhushan beats the dead horse again, wants ECI to reveal the source code of EVM, a demand already rejected by Supreme Court

Continuing his attack on Electronic Voting Machines, notorious Supreme Court advocate Prashant Bhushan recently reiterated the old demand that the ECI should reveal the source code of EVMs in the public domain. Strikingly this demand was already rejected by the Supreme Court last year asserting that it will make the source code more vulnerable. 

In a vile rhetoric against ECI and the current CEC, Prashant Bhushan ranted, “The manner in which the lapdog CEC is behaving wrt EVMs: Not revealing the source code of the programmable chips; not willing to meet Opp parties on this; not willing to even count the VVPAT slips; reveals the malafide intent of the CEC.” 

Issuing an open threat, the disgraced Supreme Court advocate added, “They must know they will be jailed if they are caught with manipulation of EVMs.”

Bhushan made the above remarks while responding to a media report that the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) criticised ECI for allegedly not responding to RTI queries relating to EVM and VVPATs for more than a year. The said RTI was filed by the former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer M G Devasahayam.

Devasahayam was among the signatories who tried to cast apprehensions about the credibility of electronic voting machines (EVMs), voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT), and the vote-counting process. He had filed the application under the Right to Information (RTI) Act with the poll panel, seeking information on the actions taken regarding their representation on 22.11.2022. 

Through his RTI application, Devasahayam sought to obtain information about the individuals and public authorities to whom the representation was forwarded, any meetings conducted on the matter, and all pertinent file notations.

Prashant Bhushan attacked the ECI for not revealing the source of ‘programable chips’ of the EVMs, but the fact is that the highest court of the country has already dismissed this demand.

Notably, in September 2023, a three-judge bench of the SC headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought an audit of the source code of all Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The PIL had also demanded that the audit report be released in the public domain. 

While rejecting the PIL, the CJI said, “What is the material before us to doubt about the Election Commission? How can source code be placed in the public domain? It cannot be made available in the public domain. That will make them more vulnerable.”

In a short hearing, petitioner Sunil Ahya, representing himself, informed the bench that he had previously submitted a representation to the Election Commission of India but had not received any response.

Rejecting the PIL, the bench in its order said, “Plea is filed seeking independent audit of the source code of the EVM applying to a particular standard of IEEE1028, and so that the report is placed in the public domain. The petitioner had earlier moved a plea before the general elections in 2019 and the court had held that due to impending elections it was not possible to get into the plea.”

The order stated, “Another PIL was filed in 2020 and this court permitted him to make a representation before the ECI. Petitioner says he made three representations to the ECI but is still in the dark. ECI is entrusted with control over elections. Presently, petitioner places no actionable material before this court to show that ECI has acted in breach of its constitutional mandate. Ultimately, placing the source code audit in the public domain intervenes with the policy issue and we are not inclined to interfere in this policy issue. There is no material to show ECI is not fulfilling its mandate. Thus, we do not interfere in this petition.” 

Prashant Bhushan spread another lie by using the phrase ‘programmable chip’, because the EVMs contain One Time Programmable (OTP) microcontrollers. This means, once the software has been loaded into the chips, it can’t be altered.

Bhushan also lied by saying that ECI is not willing to even count the VVPAT slips. At present, VVPAT slips of five EVM-VVPATs in each assembly segment is counted, as per a Supreme Court order. The VVPATs to be taken up for counting paper slips are randomly selected through a ‘draw of lots’ conducted by the Returning Officer in the presence of the General Observer and the candidates or their representatives. The paper slips are counted in a secure VVPAT counting booth under a camera inside the counting hall, after the last round of counting of votes on the EVMs in the constituency.

A petition to count all VVPATs has been filed at the Supreme Court, and the apex court is hearing the matter. However, the ECI has opposed the demand to count all VVPAT slips or even 50%, saying that it would delay the announcement of results by five to six days.

ECI also points out that in all the instances where the slips are counted, no discrepancy was found with EVM results. As per the poll body, calculations by the Indian Statistical Institute show that even counting slips from 479 randomly selected VVPATs across the country would guarantee over 99% accuracy. At 5 VVPATs per assembly constituency, at present over 20,000 VVPATs are counted.

Therefore, slips of randomly selected VVPATs are counted at present, and the plea to count all of them is under consideration at the Supreme Court.

What ECI says about the source code of EVM

The FAQ page on EVMs on the ECI website gives detailed information about the source code of the EVMs, which explains why they can’t be hacked.

According to FAQ on EVMs published by the Election Commission, India does not import any EVM, all EVMs used in India are made by two Indian companies Bharat Electronics in Bengaluru and Electronics Corporation of India in Hyderabad. The Software Programme Code for the voting machines is written in-house by these two companies, not outsourced. The process is subjected to security procedures at factory level to maintain the highest levels of integrity.

After the code has been written, it is converted to machine code, and only the machine code in machine language is given to the chip manufacturer abroad. This is because, at present there is no chip producer in India capable of producing such semi-conductor microchips.

The FAQ page says, “every microchip has an identification number embedded into memory and the producers have their digital signatures on them. So, the question of their replacement does not arise at all because microchips are subjected to functional tests with regard to the software. Any attempt to replace microchip is detectable and can make EVM in-operative. Thus, both changing existing programme or introducing new one are detectable making EVM in-operative.”

Moreover, the new third-generation M3 EVM has additional features like Tamper Detection and Self Diagnostics. The tamper detection feature makes an EVM inoperative the moment anyone tries to open the machine. The Self-diagnostic feature checks the EVM fully every time it is switched on. Any change in its hardware or software will be detected.

On the technology used in the EVMs, the FAQ says, “The ECI-EVMs use some of the most sophisticated technological features like one time programmable (OTP) microcontrollers, dynamic coding of key codes, date and time stamping of each and every key press, advanced encryption technology and EVM-tracking software to handle EVM logistics, among others to make the machine 100% tamper proof. In addition to these, new model M3 EVMs also have tamper detection and self-diagnostics as added features. Since, software is based on OTP, the program cannot be altered, re-written or Re-read. Thus, making EVM tamper proof. If anyone make, attempt, the machine will become in operative.”

Firing outside Salman Khan’s residence: CCTV footage and pictures of two suspects released, booked for attempt to murder

OpIndia Staff
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Firing outside Salman Khan’s residence: CCTV footage and pictures of two suspects released, booked for attempt to murder

Hours after two unknown bike-borne assailants opened fire at Salman Khan’s Galaxy Apartment in Mumbai’s Bandra, news agency ANI has released the CCTV footage of the firing incident asserting that the same has been confirmed by the Mumbai Police. The Mumbai Police have also released the pictures of both the suspects involved in this case. As per reports, they were heading to the Bandra Railway Station.

In the CCTV footage, both the suspects are seen wearing helmets and carrying backpacks. The man sitting at the pillion is then seen opening fire at the actor’s residence.

In the pictures released by the Mumbai Police, one of the suspects is seen wearing a white t-shirt, black jacket, and denim, while the other person is in a red t-shirt and denim. Both of them are also seen wearing caps. 

As per reports, the Mumbai Police have booked two unknown persons under section 307 of the Indian Penal Code and 3(25) section of the Arms Act. The police have also seized the bike which was allegedly used by the attackers. It was recovered a few kilometres away from the actor’s house. 

The Police officials said that the two persons fired four rounds outside the Galaxy Apartments in Bandra area, where the actor resides, at around 5 am and fled from the spot. 

Mumbai Police said that Salman Khan was present in his home at the time of the incident adding that the bullets were fired in the air. 

Speaking with news agency ANI, DCP Mumbai, Raj Tilak Roushan said, “Today at around 5 am, two unidentified people opened fire outside the house of actor Salman Khan in Bandra. Police have received information about 3 rounds of firing. A case has been registered and an investigation is underway in the case. No one was injured in the firing incident.”

Police sources indicated that the firing involved a 7.62 weapon. According to sources, the bikers departed from Galaxy Apartments toward the Western Express Highway, and there’s speculation that they may have left Mumbai. Additionally, police sources revealed that the shooters are believed to be from outside Maharashtra. 

Sources stated that 15 police teams have been assembled to locate and apprehend the suspects. Mumbai’s top police officials, including Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Lakhmi Gautam and encounter specialist Daya Nayak, arrived at the actor’s residence to initiate their investigation. 

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde and Raj Thackeray reaches out to the actor

After the firing incident, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde spoke to the Bollywood actor over a phone call. He also held discussions with the Mumbai Police Commissioner and directed the police to increase Salman Khan’s security. 

Shinde said, “This is an unfortunate incident. Police are investigating it. The accused will be caught and stringent action will be taken against them.” He assured that those who take the law into their own hands won’t be spared.

He added, “Commissioner has been informed to assess the security of Salman Khan and his entire family & increase the security. I have also spoken with Salman Khan too. I have told him that the Government is with him and he need not worry.” 

Additionally, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Chief Raj Thackeray reached his house.

As per media reports, Anmol, the brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, claimed responsibility for the firing incident in a social media post. However, the veracity of it has not been independently verified. Mumbai Police are probing this matter and checking Anmol Bishnoi’s social media handle.

Meanwhile, Salman Khan’s father, Salim Khan claimed that there was nothing to worry alleging that the attackers only wanted publicity. Speaking with CNN-News18, he said, “There is nothing to tell. They just want publicity, there is no need to worry.” 

Earlier, Salman Khan’s father Salim Khan was threatened by a note in 2022 while he was on a morning walk outside his house in the morning. In the threat note, it was written that he would meet the fate of Sidhu Moosewala. Salman Khan’s security was also increased after this incident. Later, a pistol licence was also issued to him for security reasons. There was also an increase in the number of private security guards of the actor. Salman Khan had also received threatening emails in November 2023.

Muslims will never tolerate UCC and will oppose it like CAA-NRC, Modi will not become PM again: Maulana Mushtaq Malik rants against BJP

OpIndia Staff
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Muslims will never tolerate UCC and will oppose it like CAA-NRC, Modi will not become PM again: Maulana Mushtaq Malik rants against BJP

Maulana Mushtaq Malik, President of Hyderabad-based Tahreek Muslim Shabban, has attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party for including the promise of implementing a Uniform Civil Code in its manifesto, and threatened nationwide unrest and riots similar to anti-CAA agitation. He also claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi won’t secure a third consecutive term this year.

Maulana Mushtaq Malik said that Muslims in India will never tolerate UCC, and it will be met with massive protests. He claimed, “We are against the UCC (Uniform Civil Code), and if it is forced upon us, the reaction will be the same as it was for the CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) and NRC (National Register of Citizens).”

The Maulana also said that BJP remains silent on issues of minority interest and an attempt is being made to make Muslims second-class citizens in the country.

He added, “The Muslims of the country will never tolerate it at all. Their (BJP) mouths are shut when it comes to minorities and are trying to relegate Muslims to the status of second-class citizens. This is where they are taking the country and are seeking to win elections based on communal polarization. As the first phase of voting draws near, the BJP has completely failed in its objective. The BJP failed to create polarisation in the election and Modi will not be able to get a third term and raise the national flag at Red Fort.”

The Islamic leader recently made bizarre arguments to counter CAA and alleged, “If India provides sanctuary, we will welcome it but you (Modi government) are discriminating because you have no topic at the moment. You failed in Ram Mandir. You attempted to make UCC a big deal in Uttarakhand, but you were unsuccessful there too. You demolished mosques and failed. You demolished the mosque and madrassa in Haldwani before the court order, yet, no polarization happened. The marriage act was repealed by Assam’s chief minister but polarization didn’t occur.”

The cleric also delivered a veiled threat and claimed that Muslims understand how and when to respond. “Muslims are aware as well. Muslims have reigned for seven centuries, as I mentioned. The Muslims must have a certain amount of intelligence. We are smarter than Union Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We know what to react and when. They anticipate a response from us. Now, that elections are approaching, we have no idea who will run in which jungle. We don’t know what will transpire. However, the issue about EVM is a different one. Whether they will win, form the government or not is to be seen.”

Israel calls off retaliatory strike on Iran after phone call between Netanyahu and Biden: Report

ANI
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Israel calls off retaliatory strike on Iran after phone call between Netanyahu and Biden: Report

Following a barrage of drone strikes fired by Iran on Saturday towards Israel, a New York Times report states that Israel decided to carry out a retailtory attack on Tehran on Sunday morning, however it was cancelled after a phone call took place between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the situation.

After Israel successfully intercepted Iranian missiles and drones, the Biden administration cautioned Tel Aviv to avoid escalation in the Middle East, The Jerusalem Post reported citing NYT.

More than 300 drones and missiles were intercepted by Israel, which US officials called a major strategic win while advising that further retailition is not required.

Israel’s war cabinet is set to convene later on Sunday to evaluate a response to Iran’s attack.

Notably, Netanyahu spoke with Biden, following meetings with the Security Cabinet and the War Cabinet, after Iran launched drones towards Israel on Saturday night in response to the air strike on its embassy in Syria.

The authorities , however, did not disclose the exchange between Biden and Netanyahu.

According to Jerusalem Post, Biden’s conversation with Netanyahu reiterated the US’ commitment to Israel’s security, which following the attacks, Biden called “ironclad.”

In his subsequent public statement, President Biden hinted at a preference for restraint and the need for careful consideration of the situation before any steps taken further.

Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, meanwhile said on Sunday that the confrontation between Iran and Israel is “not over yet.” His remarks came after Iran launched an attack on Israel the previous night.

Gallant said that Israel was attacked with missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles and Israel Defence Forces (IDF) thwarted the attack. He urged Israelis to remain “alert and attentive” to the instructions issued by the IDF and Homefront Command, according to CNN report.

He said, “The State of Israel was attacked with hundreds of missiles and [unmanned aerial vehicles], and the [Israel Defense Forces] thwarted this attack in an impressive manner.” He emphasised that Israel “must be prepared for every scenario.”

Gallant said, “Together with the United States and additional partners, we managed to defend the territory of the State of Israel.” He added, “Very little damage was caused – this is the result of the IDF’s impressive operations.”

Gallant is one of three members of Israel’s war cabinet, alongside Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz.

Iran launched its first direct attack on Israel on Saturday night, launching a barrage of 300 attack drones and missiles from its territory towards the Jewish state, triggering air raid sirens throughout Israel on Sunday morning as the military tried to intercept the Iranian projectiles, the Times of Israel reported. The onset of the assault was confirmed by IDF spokesman Hagari at 11 pm.

Alongside missile launches, Hagari noted that Iran also fired missiles at Israel, with “numerous” Israeli fighter jets swiftly mobilising to counter the attacks. Air raid sirens blared across Israel early Sunday, starting at 1:42 am in southern Israeli communities and soon spreading throughout the country and many towns in the West Bank.

This news report is published from a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has not been written or edited by OpIndia staff)

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