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“Mangi Ke Khaibon, Maseet Me Soibo”: Jagatguru Rambhadracharya Maharaj’s testimony in Ram Mandir case and how it played a vital role in judgement

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“Mangi Ke Khaibon, Maseet Me Soibo”: Jagatguru Rambhadracharya Maharaj’s testimony in Ram Mandir case and how it played a vital role in judgement

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla is scheduled for 22nd January 2024. It took over 500 years for the Hindu devotees to see their dream of having Bhagwan Ram’s temple in Ayodhya. The journey to the temple’s construction saw bloodshed and a lengthy legal battle that ended on 9th November 2019 when the Supreme Court of India gave judgment in favour of Hindus. Apart from advocates, researchers, and archaeological experts, Hindu saints played a vital role in providing the foundation for the final judgment. One such saint is Jagatguru Swami Rambhadracharya Maharaj, whose testimony was crucial in the final judgment.

Swami Ji was deposed as an expert witness on religious matters at the Allahabad High Court in July 2003. Out of his 100-page affidavit and cross-examination, portions were quoted in the final judgment by the High Court. In his affidavit, Swami Ji cited numerous ancient Hindu scriptures, including Ramayana, Rāmatāpanīya Upaniṣad, Skanda Purana, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda, to support his viewpoint that Ayodhya, a holy city for Hindus, was the birthplace of Bhagwan Ram.

Swami Ji also referred to several verses from two works composed by Tulsidas. One of these was from the Doha Sataka, which described the destruction of a temple and the construction of a mosque at the disputed site by Babur in 1528 CE. The second verse he used was from Kaitavali, which mentioned a mosque.

During the cross-examination in the High Court, Swami Ji cited details on the history of the Ramananda sect, its Mathas, the rules regarding Mahants, the formation and working of Akharas, and Tulsidas’ works. Furthermore, he also refuted the claims that the original temple was on the north side of the disputed area, which was argued by the Muslim side. He cited the Ayodhya Mahatmya section of the Skanda Purana that mentioned the temple’s exact location.

OpIndia accessed court documents from both the Supreme Court and Allahabad High Court to understand Swami Ji’s perspective and testimony.

Excerpts from testimony used in the High Court judgment

In his testimony, Swami Ji asserted that, as per his knowledge and study, the disputed site was Bhagwan Ram’s birthplace. He said, “It is known to all that Lord Sri Rama was born in Ayodhya itself, and the disputed site is, as per faith, tradition and belief, recognised by the followers of Hinduism as the birthplace of Sri Rama since the time immemorial, and the worship of that place has consistently been performed.”

To support his claims, he mentioned several Hindu scriptures in his testimony. Citing verses from Valmiki Ramayana, Atharvaveda, Yajurveda, Ramtapniyayopanishad, Skandapurana and Tulsidas’s literature, Swami Ji detailed how these scriptures mentioned the birthplace of Bhagwan Ram. He pointed out that in ‘Sri Tulsishatak’, Goswami Tulsidas clearly described how Muslims and Babur destroyed the Shri Tam Janam Mandir in Ayodhya and constructed a mosque in its place.

In his writings, Tulsidas Ji expressed his deep anguish and distress over the actions of Yavans against the Hindu society and religious practices. The term Yavans was used for Mughals or barbarians. He described how the barbarians ridiculed and disrespected Hindu hymns, scriptures such as Upanishads and other religious texts such as Brahmanas, Puranas, and Itihasas.

Tulsidas Ji recounted the forceful attempts made by Muslims to drive Hindus away from their native lands. They stripped Hindus of their religious symbols such as Shikha, which is a lock of hair on the crown of the head and ‘Yagyopaveet’, which is a sacred thread that Hindus wear. The barbarians pressured Hindus to abandon their faith.

मंत्र उपनिषद ब्राह्मनहुँ बहु पुरान इतिहास ।
जवन जराये रोष भरि करि तुलसी परिहास ।।
सिखा सूत्र से हीन करि, बल ते हिन्दू लोग ।
भमरि भगाये देश ते, तुलसी कठिन कुजोग
बाबर बर्बर आइके, कर लीन्हे करवाल ।
हने पचारि-पचारि जन, तुलसी काल कराल ।।
सम्बत सर वसु बान नभ, ग्रीष्म ऋतु अनुमानि ।
तुलसी अवधहिं जड़ जवन, अनरथ किय अनखानि ।।
राम जनम महिं मंदिरहिं, तोरि मसीत बनाय ।
जवहि बहु हिन्दुन हते, तुलसी कीन्ही हाय ।।
दल्यो मीरबाकी अवध, मन्दिर रामसमाज ।
तुलसी रोवत हृदय हति, त्राहि त्राहि रघुराज ।।
राम जनम मंदिर जहाँ, लसत अवध के बीच ।
तुलसी रची मसीत तहँ, मीरबाकी खल नीच ।।
रामायन घरि घन्ट जहें, श्रुति पुरान उपखान ।
तुलसी जवन अजान तहँ, कियो कुरान अजान ।।

Excerpt from Sri Tulsishatak

Furthermore, Tulsidas Ji detailed how Mughal ruler Babur led a brutal campaign leading to the mass genocide of Hindus in Ayodhya around 1528 CE. He talked about the ruthless destruction of the Shri Ram Janam Bhumi temple and its conversion into a mosque by Mir Baqi, who was an associate of Babur. He described how heartbroken he was to witness the revered temple of Bhagwan Ram being replaced by a structure that symbolised the suffering and persecution of the Hindu community. The place that once resonated with Hindu religious discourse and the sounds of temple bells echoed with the Quranic recitations and Azaan, which deeply grieved Tulsidas Ji, leading him to cry out in despair to Bhagwan Ram for salvation.

In his work ‘Kavitavali’, Tulsidas Ji expressed detachment from society and his attachment and faith towards Bhagwan Ram. Further, he mentioned about the disputed site as follows:

“Dhoot Kahaun, Avadhoot Kahaun, Rajpoot Kahaun, Jolha Kahaun Kou. Kahu Ki Beti Se Beta Na Byahab, Kahu Ki Jati Bigaran Sou. Tulsi Sar Naam Gulamu Hai Ram Ko, Jako Ruche So kahe Kachhu Jou. Mangi Ke Khaibon, Maseet Me Soibo, Laive Ko Eku Na Deve Ke Dou.”

The Mosque mentioned in verse, particularly in the line “Mangi Ke Khaibon, Maseet Me Soibo,” holds the utmost importance in this context as it is believed that Tulsidas Ji was talking about the Mosque built in place of Shri Ram Janam Temple. He said in the verse that he was ready to ask for food and sleep in the Mosque, but his devotion to Bhagwan Ram would remain intact.

Swamiji further mentioned a Shlok from Sarga-18 of Balkand in the Valmiki Ramayana that talked about the birth of Bhagwan Ram. The Shlok read, “Tato Yagye Samapte Tu Ritunam Shat Samatyuyah. Tatasch Dwadashe Mase Chaitre Navamike Tithau. Nakshatre-aditi Daivatye Swochchsanstheshu Panjasu. Graheshu Karkate Lagne Vakyatavinduna Sah. Prodyamane Jagannatham Sarvalok Namaskritam. Kaushalyajanayad Ramam Divya Lakshan Samyutam.” Swami Ji said that the words “Sarvalok Namaskritam” referred to the birthplace of Bhagwan Ram, Ayodhya.

Referring to Skand Purana, printed and published in 1966 by Venkateshwar Printing Press, established by Kshemraj Shreshti, son of Shrikrishnadas, Swami Ji said that it contained a clear description of the Janmbhumi (birthplace) of Lord Sri Rama.

Excerpts from the Supreme Court’s judgment

The judgment read, “Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Swami Rambhadracharya states in his statement that disputed site is a Ram Janma Bhumi, which is being so believed from time immemorial by faith and tradition of Hindus.

In his statement, he states: “According to my studies and knowledge, the Ayodhya situated disputed site is Sri Ramjanmbhumi, which has been recognised as the birthplace of Lord Rama by followers of Hinduism from time immemorial on the basis of faith, tradition and belief, and the said place has been continuously worshipped.“

Source: Supreme Court of India

In his examination-in-chief, Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Swami Rambhadracharya has also stated that Ayodhya-Mahatmya, the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram, has been clearly described. Paragraph 25 of the examination-in-chief is as follows:

“I am familiar with the Ayodhya Mahatmya of the Vaishnav Khand of Skand Puran, published in 1966 in the press established by Shri Krishnadasatmaj Kshemraj Shresthi in which the birthplace of Lord Shri Rama has been clearly described. The photocopy of the cover page and the photocopy of Shloka Nos. 1 to 25 on page No.292 of chapter 10 of this book is enclosed with this affidavit as enclosure-1, which is the valid photocopy of the original book.“

Swami Ji’s testimony in the High Court was forwarded to the Supreme Court. Excerpts from the testimony were part of both High Court and Supreme Court judgments. Swami Ji was one of the saints who testified in court and referenced Hindu scriptures to prove the disputed site was indeed Bhagwan Ram’s birthplace.

Why should Maldives say anything about what PM Modi decides: Lakshadweep MP Mohammad Faizal slams Maldivian Politicians for anti-India barbs

OpIndia Staff
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Why should Maldives say anything about what PM Modi decides: Lakshadweep MP Mohammad Faizal slams Maldivian Politicians for anti-India barbs

Following Maldivian Politicians’ racial commentary on Indians, Lakshadweep MP Mohammad Faizal slammed the politicians and netizens of the archipelago for making uncalled-for and racial comments about Indians. Speaking to news agency ANI, Mohammad Faizal expressed surprise, asserting that why should Maldives say anything about what is going to happen in Lakshadweep or what PM Modi says or does for the islands. 

According to the Lakshadweep MP Faizal, whatever PM Modi does for Lakshadweep or whatever is going to happen on the island, doesn’t concern Maldives and it is uncalled for Maldivians to pass comments on such things. Expressing surprise, he asked why should Maldives have a problem with what PM Modi does for his nation and its Islands.  

The media asked about his response to the Maldivian Ministers’ post about PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep. To which, the Lakshadweep MP Mohammad Faizal said, “…Why should Maldives say something about what is going to happen in Lakshadweep and what PM Modi spoke on the future of tourism in Lakshadweep.” 

(Video Courtesy – ANI)

Faizal added that PM Modi made himself an Ambassador of Lakshadweep as the Union Territory of Lakshadweep is directly governed by the Union government, and he said something which the people of Lakshadweep always wanted, to promote tourism. 

Faizal added, “One thing is sure that Lakshadweep is going to be a new destination which is still to be explored. PM Modi came to Lakshadweep and stayed for a day and he said something which the people of Lakshadweep always wanted to have from a tourism perspective. I always wanted this government to have a policy for tourism because that will definitely generate employment opportunities for youngsters…Why should the Maldives have a problem with that?”

This comes after some politicians of the ruling government in Maldives insulted India, Indians, and PM Modi. 

The bizarre reaction from Maldives

Notably, it all started on 4th January after PM Narendra Modi shared some pictures of his recent visit to Lakshadweep. He exhorted people to explore the scenic island in what could be seen as a push to his ‘vocal for local’ slogan, and an effort to give a boost to tourism on the island.

Following his visit to Lakshadweep, a large demand erupted among Indians to explore the Indian Islands and boost our tourism sector before visiting beaches or tourism sites in other countries. However, jittery Maldivian politicians interjected and reacted by making racial commentary on Indians. 

It is important to note that neither the Indian PM mentioned any country nor it was targeted toward any nation, yet some Maldivians feared a potential hit to their tourism economy. 

Nonetheless, Mariyam Shiuna, Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, recently made insulting remarks against PM Modi, referring to him as a ‘clown’ and a ‘puppet of Israel’ after he posted pictures from his visit to Lakshadweep Islands. She later deleted the tweet and was among one of the three Ministers who were suspended by the Maldivian government for making disparaging remarks on India. 

On Friday (5th January), Zahid Rameez, a Council member of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) also took to the microblogging site X to mock Indians.

In response to Maldivian users’ and politicians’ uncalled-for and racial commentary, trends like #BoycottMaldives, and cancellation of trips to Maldives are picking steam in India.

From prominent Cricketers to Actors, all have in unison slammed Maldives for their hateful remarks against Indians and promoted tourism in Lakshadweep and other Indian Islands snubbing Maldives. Additionally, as per reports, a large number of Indians have cancelled their trips to the Island nation in the wake of the Maldivian Minister’s disparaging, and racial and Hinduphobic comments on Indians. 

Because it is 97% Muslim: Former Indian Express ‘journalist’ Irena Akbar explains real reason behind supporting tourism in Lakshadweep

OpIndia Staff
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Because it is 97% Muslim: Former Indian Express ‘journalist’ Irena Akbar explains real reason behind supporting tourism in Lakshadweep

On Monday (8th January), former Indian Express ‘journalist‘ Irena Akbar took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her support for tourism in Lakshwadeep because the Union territory has a 97% Muslim population.

The development came amid calls to boycott Maldives after the Ministers of the island nation made racist and derogatory remarks about Indian citizens and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Indians had vowed to support tourism in Lakshadweep instead of splurging their money on visiting Maldives.

As expected, Irena Akbar made it clear that she would not boycott Maldives (a country which has a 98.4% Muslim population). She however encouraged tourism in Lakshadweep on account of the fact that the inhabitants of the Union territory are her co-religionists.

Screengrab of the tweet by Irena Akbar

“I am not for boycotting Maldives but I am definitely for supporting tourism to Lakshadweep because it is 97% Muslim,” she informed. The former Indian Express journalist added, “I will give economic preference to Muslims of India over those outside.”

Several netizens called into question her loyalty to her country. Others inquired whether her allegiance to the nation is limited only to the Muslim population.

Following outrage on social media, Irena Akbar deactivated her X account. On searching for her username (@irenaakbar) on the microblogging platform, the following message is displayed – “The account does not exist.”

Irena Akbar deactivates her account

Past controversies of Irena Akbar

This is not the first time that the former scribe courted controversy on social media. After Hamas terrorists stripped a German woman named Shani Louk and paraded her dead body on a pickup truck, Irena Akbar came out in defence of the terrorists in October last year.

In April 2021, she stirred the hornet’s nest by thanking Allah for the Coronavirus pandemic. She claimed “If it weren’t for Covid, Indian Muslims would’ve been in detention camps. I’m NOT being grateful for the virus which killed my aunt, sent my dad to the ICU & is causing tragedies across homes. I’m stressing the fact that while fascists were making their plans, God was making His.”

Comments by Irena Akbar
Comments by Irena Akbar

“It’s between the devil & the deep blue sea for IMs. Either die/live in fear of Covid OR die/live in fear of anti-Muslim state violence. At least the former doesn’t specifically target us & the public will eventually question the state. But in latter, the public would rejoice it,” she added.

In February 2020, she asserted that Dalits should never be trusted by the Muslim community. The Islamist claimed that the Dalits were the ‘foot soldiers’ when communal riots broke out in Gujarat in 2002 after a Muslim mob engineered the Godhra train carnage.

Hateful tweets by Irena Akbar

“They did the dirty job of gang-raping and killing Muslims. I have never trusted them. They are ill-treated by their upper-caste Hindu brothers, not by Muslims. We owe them nothing,” she wrote. Irena Akbar also called for boycotts of business establishments run by Hindus. 

‘For every ticket of HanuMan sold, Rs 5 will be donated to Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir’: Megastar Chiranjeevi announces

OpIndia Staff
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‘For every ticket of HanuMan sold, Rs 5 will be donated to Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir’: Megastar Chiranjeevi announces

Telugu movie industry icon Megastar Chiranjeevi has announced that for every ticket sold for the new ‘HanuMan’ movie, the makers will donate Rs 5 for the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Mandir in Ayodhya.

Megastar Chiranjeevi announced at a pre-release event at Hyderabad for Prashanth Varma’s new movie ‘HanuMan’. HanuMan is set to release on January 12, clashing with other Tollywood Sankranthi releases that include Mahesh Babu’s Guntur Kaaram, Nagarjuna’s ‘Naa Sami Ranga’, and Venkatesh’s ‘Saindhav’.

‘HanuMan’ has Teja Sajja as the lead actor. It is a superhero movie themed around Hanuman’s power as an immortal God who is still watching over his devotees. Vinay Rai will play the villain role in the movie. The film also features Amritha Aiyer, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar and Raj Deepak Shetty in supporting roles.

‘HanuMan’ will be the first movie in a superhero series planned by Prashanth Varma, as per reports. The next movie is to be named as ‘Adhira’.

Delhi High Court warns YouTuber Shyam Meera Singh of contempt proceedings for making remarks against the court: Details

OpIndia Staff
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Delhi High Court warns YouTuber Shyam Meera Singh of contempt proceedings for making remarks against the court: Details

The Delhi High Court voiced its disapproval on 8th January and cautioned YouTuber Shyam Meera Singh that he could face contempt proceedings for comments he made against the Court. Shyam Meera Singh, in one of his latest social media posts, had mentioned that he was being pressured by the Court in the case against Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh.

The court was hearing a plea filed by Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, seeking an interim stay on a video, and the deletion of a video Shyam Meera Singh uploaded to YouTube. The YouTube video is titled “How Gurmeet Ram Rahim Fooled His Bhakts?”.

At the outset, counsel for the YouTuber requested an adjournment because Senior Advocate Salman Khurshid was not available to argue today. Senior Advocate Mohit Mathur, meanwhile, standing for the Dera Sacha Sauda Chief, informed the court that Singh has tweeted that he is under pressure.

The senior counsel quoted Shyam Meera Singh’s tweet, “Samne wale paksh ke karan hume 2 din ke liye video private mode pe krne ke liye majboor hona pada (Because of the opposite party, I have been forced to put the video on private mode for 2 days).”

“This is not fair. This is unfair. The court doesn’t force anybody. He’s saying he’s being forced. It was a concession. I could have passed an order. The court is very competent to pass an order with regard to the merits of the case. It was done voluntarily. Where is the majburi (Compulsion)? You bring him here, and we’ll ask him what he wants, then it will not be a majburi (compulsion),” the court of Justice Jasmeet Singh then said.

“Please understand…When you write about the court, you have to be a responsible citizen. You cannot say that the court is pressuring you. The court cannot pressure anybody. Your counsel had suggested putting the video in ‘Private Mode’ if any such tweet is posted in the future. I’ll issue a contempt order against you,” the court said advising the YouTuber Shyam Meera Singh.

The court deferred the hearing to January 10, 2024, citing the absence of Singh’s senior counsel. “The video will remain in private mode until January 10,” the court instructed.

Senior Advocate Salman Khurshid, who represented Singh at the last hearing, stated that both sides will get down and review the defamatory portions of the video to determine what can be done.

Last week, YouTuber Shyam Meera Singh informed the Court that he would remove the tweets he had written against Dera Sacha Sauda founder Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. The plaintiff’s counsel stated that his client issued a legal notice to YouTube and Shyam Meera Singh, the person who uploaded the video, on December 21. He had claimed that the film was “clearly derogatory, disparaging, and denigrating.”

“He (Shyam Meera Singh) is a habitual offender… After we put him to notice, he put out a comment on Twitter (now known as X) saying, ‘I’m not going to delete these videos’. Defiant. He has also been accused by the UP administration of insulting the Chief Minister. An FIR came to be registered at the instance of a UP resident,” the counsel of the Dera chief had said.

Israel highlights beauty of Lakshadweep, says they are ready to start desalination project to help the island

OpIndia Staff
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Israel highlights beauty of Lakshadweep, says they are ready to start desalination project to help the island

In another embarrassing moment for Maldives, Israel has appealed to people to visit the Lakshadweep islands. This comes amid the ongoing controversy between Maldives and India after some politicians of the ruling government in Maldives insulted India, Indians and PM Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 4th January urged people around the world to visit Lakshadweep islands and enjoy the scenic beauty of the union territory of India in a big boost to tourism.

He dedicated the Low Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plant at Kadmat and said that the work of providing piped water to every household in Lakshadweep is moving at a fast pace. This plant will produce 1.5 lakh litres of clean drinking water every day.

In no time, Lakshadweep became one of the most searched topics on the internet. Netizens began comparing the island’s beauty with that of Maldives which irked some senior politicians of the People’s National Congress government in Maldives.

Mariyam Shiuna, Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, made insulting remarks against PM Modi referring to him as a ‘clown’ and a ‘puppet of Israel’ after he posted pictures from his visit to Lakshadweep Islands.

Now, the embassy of Israel in India has taken to X, formerly Twitter, saying that it is ready to commence working on the desalination project in the Indian union territory.

“We were in #Lakshadweep last year upon the federal government’s request to initiate the desalination program. Israel is ready to commence working on this project tomorrow. For those who are yet to witness the pristine and majestic underwater beauty of #lakshadweepislands, here are a few pictures showing this island’s enchanting allure. #ExploreIndianIslands,” the Israeli embassy posted.

They also shared enthralling images and a video from Lakshadweep showing the beautiful marine life that would give Maldives a run for its money.

This response comes as a big blow to the likes of Mariyam Shiuna, now suspended, who called used derogatory terms for India and Israel and PM Modi and Israel’s friendship.

Notably, Mariyam Shiuna is highly anti-semitic. Her engagement on X includes sharing posts that call for the defeat of Zionism.

Similarly, other ministers, officials and prominent personalities too have taken to social media, making obnoxious remarks against India and Indians.

The trend as it stands now is #VisitMaldives versus #ExploreIndianIslands #BoycottMaldives #MaldivesOut #LakshadweepTourism.

Incomplete studies or unfinished courses? How Modi govt’s Academic Bank of Credits scheme has helped many students, with over 3 crore registrations so far

जयन्ती मिश्रा
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Incomplete studies or unfinished courses? How Modi govt’s Academic Bank of Credits scheme has helped many students, with over 3 crore registrations so far

Governments have traditionally introduced numerous schemes to support students in their academic pursuits. Yet, there has been a lack of attention given to students whose education has been interrupted or left incomplete for various reasons, be it familial or economic. The consideration of whether there would be any record of incomplete studies was often overlooked. However, the Modi government transformed this system and introduced a platform that tracks students’ progress not only on an annual basis but also on a semester-by-semester scale.


The Modi government introduced the New Education Policy (NEP) in 2020, bringing forth a digital system. Under this, a digital record of all the students in the Indian higher education space will be maintained, allowing an opportunity for those who had to discontinue their studies to resume without any hassle. This scheme is known as the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC). Recently, the University Grants Commission informed that over 3 crore students (3.17 crore) from across the country have already registered for this scheme. This number is expected to increase further in the coming times.

The distinctive feature of this system is that registered students of undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses can make multiple entries or exits in any college. They do not need to collect documents from various places. With just one click, they can obtain information about admission to the same course in another college. Additionally, they will not be required to study the same semester again in case they had discontinued their studies.

All student data on this government portal will remain secure. In simple terms, this platform will function like a commercial bank, where the customers are students, and instead of money, credits for courses are deposited. When students wish to redeem these credits, it can also be done easily. 

Under this scheme, if a student completes one full year, it will not be considered that they dropped the course midway; instead, they will be awarded a certificate. Similarly, upon completing two years, they will receive a diploma, and after three years, they will be granted a degree.

Students who had to opt out mid-way in their academic careers, can resume their studies from where they left at a later stage and a time of their choosing. They can present those documents and continue by redeeming credits. But the most crucial aspect is that students need to register in the Academic Bank of Credits scheme for this facility.

After that, the student needs to be reassured about their documents. As of now, around 1693 academic institutions (universities, INIs) are registered under this portal. In addition, the UGC is consistently urging every university to enroll students on this platform and pay equal attention to their data.

To avail the facility of the Academic Bank of Credits, students have to follow the following steps.

• First students have to log in to www.abc.gov.in, afterward they would have to go on to the My Account section.  

• Then students will need to create an account through DigiLocker that requires a mobile number or an Aadhaar number.

• In the next step, students will have to enter the security PIN, which they will receive on their phone.

• With this, a student’s account will be created.

• After this, the student will get a unique ID and password, through which the candidate can log in anytime.

• By using their ABC ID, students will be able to see all the courses and their credit scores.

• They can simply select the course information they need to transfer and share it further.

• They can redeem the credit kept in their account for seven years.

• With its help it will be easier for students in the Indian higher education space to study further. 

  • In the ABC system, the student won’t need to provide any documents from their end. The information provided by the higher institute will be entered into its feed.

• Through this, students can take admission in courses, including both online and distance mode courses. Everyone’s credit scores will be linked to the platform.

• On this portal, in addition to all the courses of UGC-approved higher institutes, engineering, medical, dental, law, and other professional courses are also covered.

(Video Courtesy – UGC)

This is not an election-year scheme

It is important to note that the ABC scheme was launched in 2021, a year after the introduction of NEP 2020. The concept behind it is to provide students with a platform where they can access information about all their credits in one place. The special thing about this platform is that whether students have pursued an offline course or an online one, they don’t need to update anything separately.

Additionally, the ABC Regulations aim to promote a blended learning approach, enabling students to accumulate credits from diverse Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) participating in this initiative, as well as through SWAYAM, an online platform offering a variety of courses. Under this framework, a student has the flexibility to earn up to 50% of the credits from institutions other than the one where they are currently pursuing their degree or diploma program.

The educational institution itself will share students’ credit scores on this platform. If during this period, studies are discontinued, students will receive documents based on their credits, assisting in admission for the next year or semester within 7 years. The noteworthy aspect is that it is not necessary to pursue the next semester from the same place. If students have earned credits for a semester from Delhi University, and they are capable of pursuing the next one from Indraprastha University, they can resume their studies as per their suitability.

India is transforming with the efforts of the Modi government

It is noteworthy that at a time when the Lok Sabha elections are approaching, and the opposition is continuously trying to find flaws in the policies of the Modi government, it is essential to know that 10 years of Modi government has not only developed the country by initiating major projects but has also worked on strengthening the youth through various small steps.

Practically speaking, when we look at the use of ABC today, through such a scheme, women who faced pressure to get married and had their education interrupted can now complete their studies. Alternatively, men who had aspirations for higher education but had to divert their paths towards employment due to family responsibilities can also benefit from it. Young individuals who, due to the influence of their surroundings, drop out of education at a certain age and later realize that completing their studies could have led to better opportunities in life, can also take advantage of this.

Nigerian televangelist TB Joshua raped, tortured his church disciples, claims of ‘miracle healing’ were fake: BBC probe reveals

OpIndia Staff
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Nigerian televangelist TB Joshua raped, tortured his church disciples, claims of ‘miracle healing’ were fake: BBC probe reveals

A two-year investigation by the BBC, in cooperation with the worldwide media platform Open Democracy, has revealed frightening accusations of widespread abuse and torture within the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), one of the world’s biggest Christian evangelical churches which was led by the late Nigerian televangelist TB Joshua.

TB Joshua, who died in 2021, was a captivating and extremely successful preacher and televangelist with a massive global audience. The probe against him by the BBC has lasted nearly two decades, exposing terrible tales from former church members in many countries.

Over 25 ex-church members’ testimony, including five from the United Kingdom, reveals a horrifying pattern of horrors including rape, forced abortions, and physical assault. The most recent accounts extend back to 2019, with many victims characterizing their experience as similar to being in a cult.

The victims said that they were sexually assaulted by Joshua, with a number claiming they were repeatedly raped for years inside the compound.

Rae, one of the British victims, described what happened when she abandoned her degree at Brighton University in 2002 to join the SCOAN at the age of 21. She reported Joshua’s brutal sexual abuse and protracted solitary detention on the church compound in Lagos.

“We all thought we were in heaven, but we were in hell, and in hell terrible things happen,” she was quoted as saying. Rae’s narrative is similar to those of other interviewees, including Jessica Kaimu from Namibia, who claims Joshua raped her at 17 and forced her to have many abortions.

The probe also discovered instances of Joshua’s phony “miracle healings” and manipulation of followers. Victims described being undressed, beaten with electrical cords and horsewhips, and often denied sleep.

According to the BBC, the crew experienced hostility, including being shot at by church security, while attempting to get the footage in Lagos. At present, Evelyn, Joshua’s widow, leads SCOAN, which continues to function globally.

The allegations of torture in a secluded Lagos facility stretch back nearly 20 years. However, the church has disputed past allegations against TB Joshua, adding, “Making unfounded allegations against Prophet TB Joshua is not a new occurrence. None of the allegations were ever proven.”

The UK Foreign Office, although not explicitly reacting to these specific charges, emphasized its commitment to investigating reports of criminality, including sexual assault, against British nationals abroad.

With millions of followers on social media and a Christian TV program named Emmanuel TV, the Synagogue Church of All Nations enjoys a large global following. During the 1990s and early 2000s, tens of thousands of pilgrims from Europe, the Americas, South East Asia, and Africa visited the church in Nigeria to hear Joshua perform “healing miracles”. At least 150 visitors lived as disciples inside his Lagos property, some for decades.

TB Joshua, who died in June 2021, was regarded as one of the most important preachers in African history. Rising from poverty, he established an evangelical empire that included scores of government figures, celebrities, and international football players.

He did, however, spark controversy during his lifetime when a guesthouse for Catholic pilgrims collapsed in 2014, killing at least 116 people.

This BBC investigation is the first time that many insiders have openly spoken out against the abuse at SCOAN. The disclosures have highlighted serious concerns about religious leaders like TB Joshua wielding unrestrained authority and influence, as well as the necessity for stricter oversight of religious institutions to prevent such abuses.

“I will never shoot in Maldives again”: Poonam Pandey cancels her Maldives trip over anti-India barbs by Maldivian politicians

OpIndia Staff
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“I will never shoot in Maldives again”: Poonam Pandey cancels her Maldives trip over anti-India barbs by Maldivian politicians

Amid the rising clamour against racial commentary by Maldivian Netizens and politicians, Bollywood actress, and Model Poonam Pandey has announced to cancel her forthcoming shoot in the Island nation asserting that she will never shoot in the Maldives again. 

She noted that when she told her team that she would not be shooting in Maldives, they agreed to her demands. Pandey also added that she hopes to shoot in Lakshadweep. Asserting that Nation comes first amid anti-India barbs by some Maldivian Ministers, she used hashtags #NationFirst and #ExploreIndianIsland along with tagging the Indian PMO in her post. 

She wrote, “I love shooting in Maldives but I will never shoot in Maldives again. When I was scheduled to shoot my next shoot in Maldives, I told my team that I will not Fly if this shoot gets stuck in Maldives. Fortunately, they agreed and now hoping to shoot in Lakshadweep.” 

In the post, she also shared a screenshot detailing her discussion with her travel and schedule planner. 

Notably, following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep earlier this week, a large demand erupted among Indians to explore Indian Islands and boost our tourism sector before visiting beaches or tourism sites in other countries. However, jittery Maldivian politicians interjected and reacted to the churn in Indian social media by making racial commentary on Indians. 

It is important to note that neither the Indian PM mentioned any country nor it was targeted toward any nation, yet some Maldivians feared a potential hit to their tourism economy. 

Subsequently, politicians and public figures from the island nation of Maldives went on a racist diatribe against Indians triggering an outrage from Indian users and celebrities. From prominent Cricketers to Actors all have in unison slammed Maldives for their hateful remarks against Indians and promoted tourism in Lakshadweep and other Indian Islands snubbing Maldives.  

Additionally, as per reports, a large number of Indians have cancelled their trips to the Island nation in the wake of the Maldivian Minister’s disparaging and racial and Hinduphobic comments on Indians. Reportedly around 8000+ hotel bookings and 2000+ flights have been cancelled while Indian travel operators noted that they have not received any new inquiries for holidays in Maldives adding that the impact of the Boycott would be visible in the coming days.  

Further, Indian online travel company, Ease My Trip, announced to suspension of all flight bookings to Maldives on its platform amid the ongoing diplomatic row between India and the island nation.

The Background of the Controversy

On January 4, PM Narendra Modi shared some pictures of his recent visit to Lakshadweep as he exhorted people to explore the scenic island in what could be seen as a push to his ‘vocal for local’ slogan, and an effort to give a boost to tourism in the island.

Following PM Modi’s tweet posting stunning vistas from the Lakshadweep Islands, several social media users in India called for Indians to visit the place over foreign destinations, including the Maldives, which shares similar geographical characteristics as the Lakshadweep Islands.

That touched off bitter reactions from Maldivian counterparts, including governmental functionaries and prominent citizens, many of whom resorted to making churlish remarks against India, Indians, and the Indian PM.

Screengrab of Maldivian Deputy Minister Mariyam Shiuna’s deleted post.

Mariyam Shiuna, Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, recently made insulting remarks against PM Modi, referring to him as a ‘clown’ and a ‘puppet of Israel’ after he posted pictures from his visit to Lakshadweep Islands. She later deleted the tweet and was among one of the three Ministers who were suspended by the Maldivian government for making disparaging remarks on India. 

On Friday (5th January), Zahid Rameez, a Council member of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) also took to the microblogging site X to mock Indians.

In response to Maldivian users’ and politicians’ uncalled-for and racial commentary, trends like #BoycottMaldivians and cancelling trips to Maldives are picking steam.

Saraswati Devi, who was on Maun Vrat for 30 years for Ram Mandir, will now speak during Mandir’s inauguration: Another saga of devotion for Shri Ram

OpIndia Staff
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Saraswati Devi, who was on Maun Vrat for 30 years for Ram Mandir, will now speak during Mandir’s inauguration: Another saga of devotion for Shri Ram

The Pran Prathishtha or consecration ceremony of Ayodhya Ram Mandir, set for January 22, 2024, is the ultimate victory for the families of lakhs of individuals who gave their lives for the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. As all Hindus excitedly await Shri Ram’s historic return to his birthplace, the holy city of Ayodhya, we must remember the sacrifices all the Karsevaks made over the course of 500 years for the Ram Mandir movement.

Nevertheless, we should also acknowledge several such individuals who, in their own unique way, made enormous sacrifices and endured arduous penances in the hope of witnessing the construction of the Bhavya Ram Mandir in Ayodhya one day.

Saraswati Devi would break her 30-year-long maun vrat by chanting ‘Ram Siyaram’ during the consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir

Saraswati Devi Agarwal, an 85-year-old resident of Karamtand in Dhanbad, Jharkhand, is one such person. She has kept a vow of silence (Maun Vart) for 30 years and pledged to break it only after the Ram Mandir is erected in Ayodhya. Her joy now has no bounds because what she wished for has finally come true. She is now scheduled to break her three-decade penance on January 22 during the consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. She will be breaking her maun vrat by seeking the blessing of Ram Lalla. “Ram…Siyaram’ are the first words that Saraswati Devi would utter as she would break her silence.

The Shri Ram Temple trust has invited Saraswati Devi to participate in the Pran Pratishtha event. Her family is thrilled with the invitation. On January 8, her brothers would take her to Ayodhya. Manish Das and Shashi Das, students of Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, the head of Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirtha Kshetra, will welcome her at the Ayodhya Dham railway station. Aggarwal will stay in Swamiji’s ashram, Patthar Mandir Chhoti Chhawni for the next four months.

Saraswati Devi’s spiritual journey

According to her son Hariram Agarwal, Saraswati Devi commenced her spiritual journey in May 1992 when she visited Ayodhya and met Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, the head of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust. He told her to circumambulate (parikrama) the Kamtanath Mountain. She proceeded to Chitrakoot on his orders and stayed in Kalpavas for seven and a half months, subsisting on a glass of milk per day and circumambulating the 14-kilometer path around Kamtanath mountain every day. After finishing the parikrama, she returned to Ayodhya. On December 6, 1992, she met Swami Nritya Gopal Das, who motivated her to observe Maun Vrat (vow of silence). She pledged that she would break her silence only on the day the Ram temple was consecrated.

Saraswati Devi married Devkinandan Agarwal 65 years ago. Devkinandan Agarwal, who hailed from the Bhonra village in Uttar Pradesh, passed away 35 years ago. The couple had eight children, four sons and four daughters, three of whom have since passed away. Saraswati Devi was born in Rajasthan and never attended school, but her husband provided her with the basics of education. She eventually learned to read and write by looking at books and has been since, regularly reading religious books like the Ram Charit Manas. She lives a very simple life and eats only once a day that too only Satvik food.

When she informed her family of her desire to observe the vow of silence, they welcomed and supported her spiritual journey.

Modi is Raja Dashrath of Ayodhya while Yogi is sage Vashishtha: Saraswati Devi says her sacrifices have paid off

Saraswati Devi has now reacted to the consecration ceremony invitation that was issued to her. Because she does not speak, she expressed her gratitude by writing on a piece of paper, “My life is complete.” Ram Lalla called me for the pran pratishtha ceremony. My prayers and meditation have proved fruitful. After thirty years, I shall break my maun vrat with Ram Naam,” she wrote, as she compared PM Narendra Modi to Raja Dashrath, the king of the Kosala kingdom and a scion of the Suryavamsha dynasty in Hinduism and Yogi Adityanath with sage Vashishtha, one of the oldest and most revered Vedic rishis.

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