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Supreme Court raps Delhi Government over RRTS funding delay: Advertising budget diverted

OpIndia Staff
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Supreme Court raps Delhi Government over RRTS funding delay: Advertising budget diverted

On 21st November, the Supreme Court of India expressed its dissatisfaction with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Delhi Government as it failed to allocate funds for the Regional Rapid Transport System (RRTS) projects in the Alwar and Panipat corridors. Notably, in July this year, the Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi Government had committed to the apex court that the funds would be transferred as ordered.

A bench of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia directed the government to redirect the funds it has designated for advertising to the RRTS projects. However, the implementation of the orders will come into effect only if the AAP government fails to fulfil the earlier commitment in the next week.

The court said, “The advertising funds for the last three years had been requested, totalling ₹1,100 crores for the past three years and ₹550 crores for this year. We were inclined to transfer those funds. However, on the last occasion, Dr Singhvi assured me that the funds would be made available. Consequently, we are compelled to direct that the funds allocated for advertising be redirected to this project. At the request of the Delhi government counsel, we are temporarily staying this order for one week. If the funds are not transferred, the order will take effect.”

The action taken by the Supreme Court was part of a broader case addressing the declining air quality in Delhi and stubble burning in neighbouring states, especially in Punjab. In its orders on Tuesday, the court specifically addressed the delays in the implementation of RRTS projects. The apex court pointed out that the RRTS projects have been recognised as a more environmentally friendly transportation option. Before issuing the orders, the apex court cautioned the AAP-led Delhi government that it would freeze and divert the advertising budget if the government failed to allocate funds for the project.

The court further emphasised that after one week, it would re-evaluate the situation and the process of transferring the funds. The court criticised the state government for a lack of proactive measures. The bench said, “If this is the only way that states will cooperate, then we have to take this step. You didn’t even seek an extension. You cannot take the court for granted.” Notably, on 24th July, the Supreme Court had warned the Delhi government about delayed contribution to the Delhi-Meerut RRTS project.

The Delhi-Meerut RRTS project is one of the three rapid rail corridors planned under Phase One of the RapidX project. The project has already been inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has been functioning since 20th October. Named Namo Bharat Train, the 82-kilometre-long Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut stretch was developed at a cost of over Rs 30,000 crores. The Prime Minister flagged off the first RAPIDX train from Sahibabad station in Uttar Pradesh. The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor on 8th March 2019.

RRTS explained

RAPIDX, or Regional Rapid Transit System, is India’s first semi-high-speed regional rail service. The entire Rs 32,724-crore corridor in Uttar Pradesh, covering Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Meerut, is projected to be finished by June 2025.

As per the reports, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), a joint venture between the Centre and the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, is in charge of the RRTS project. The airconditioned RAPIDX trains, billed as India’s fastest inter-state transit system, will travel at a top speed of 160 kilometers per hour.

The RAPIDX trains’ average speed of 100 KMPH distinguishes them from Metro and Indian Railways trains. These RRTS trains have been given the name ‘Namo Bharat’. To know more about the RapidX trains, check our previous report here.

Covid vaccines did not increase the risk of sudden death among ‘healthy’ young adults, other factors responsible: ICMR study

ANI
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Covid vaccines did not increase the risk of sudden death among ‘healthy’ young adults, other factors responsible: ICMR study

Vaccines administered for COVID-19 did not increase the risk of sudden death among young adults in India but it was the post-Covid hospitalisation, family history of sudden death, and certain lifestyle behaviours that are likely the underlying causes, according to a peer-reviewed ICMR study. 

The study by the Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) was conducted through the participation of 47 tertiary care hospitals across India. Cases were healthy individuals aged 18-45 years without any known co-morbidity, who suddenly died of unexplained causes during October 2021-March 2023. 

Interviews were recorded to collect data on COVID-19 vaccination, infection and post-COVID-19 conditions, family history of sudden death, smoking, recreational drug use, alcohol frequency and binge drinking and vigorous-intensity physical activity two days before death. 

“Lifestyle factors such as current smoking status, alcohol use frequency, recent binge drinking, recreational drug/substance use and vigorous-intensity activity were positively associated with unexplained sudden death,” the study noted. 

“As compared to never users, the more the frequency of alcohol use, the higher was the odds for unexplained sudden death.” 
The study was done in view of some anecdotal reports of sudden unexplained deaths in India’s, apparently healthy young adults during the once-in-a-century pandemic. 

“…past COVID-19 hospitalization, family history of sudden death, binge drinking 48 hours before death/interview, use of recreational drug/substance and performing vigorous-intensity physical activity 48 hours before death/interview were positively associated,” the study document read. 

“Two (vaccine) doses lowered the odds of unexplained sudden death, whereas a single dose did not.” 

Covid-19 vaccination, it added, by and large, has been documented to prevent all-cause mortality across age groups and settings. 
The primary purpose of vaccination is to prevent Covid-19-associated severity. Studies have documented adverse events, predominantly thromboembolic events, following Covid-19 vaccination, it noted. 

At a macro level globally, the coronavirus pandemic resulted in excess mortality among certain groups of people and studies have documented them. 

In India, there have been several anecdotal reports about sudden unexplained deaths among apparently healthy adults, purportedly linked to Covid-19 or Covid-19 vaccination. 

The pathways through which Covid-19 may cause sudden deaths are currently not well-understood, the ICMR study noted. In the Indian context, the reports of sudden death among young adults have not been investigated in detail. 

However, the study contended that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. 

“Although there is some evidence for the increased risk of death among COVID-19-recovered individuals and among those with breakthrough infections, the evidence for sudden deaths among such individuals is scarce,” the study noted.

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

Australia to be stripped of its title and the World Cup final match to be re-played in a best-of-three format? Here is how fake news was spread on WhatsApp

OpIndia Staff
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Australia to be stripped of its title and the World Cup final match to be re-played in a best-of-three format? Here is how fake news was spread on WhatsApp

“The World Cup Trophy would be retrieved from the Australian side as ICC officials have announced that the decider for the quadrennial tournament will be played in best of a three-match format. Additionally, the 19th November upset for the host side makes the scoreline 1-0 in favour of Australia. As the ICC ruling states in the condition of the host side losing the Final knockout game the format of the tournament will undergo changes. This will be done to ensure that the side defeating the host team is truly worthy of the prize.” Apparently, these are the claims being made in messages doing the rounds on WhatsApp. 

However, a simple reading of these claims reveals that their origin lies in a satirical article that is also being circulated on social media platforms. Here is an example of WhatsApp forwards with the same claims doing rounds.

(WhatsApp forwards claiming that the World Cup format has been changed to Best of the three-match format)

The link to the article attached with some of these WhatsApp forwards is that of a satirical article titled “ICC announces World Cup final to be ‘best of three’ following India’s loss, BCCI complaint”. However, the article itself explicitly mentions that it is just a ‘Satire’ right above the article headline. 

The satirical article states, “Under the rules, a tournament host losing the final – in this case, India – would have the right to try again in two further follow-up finals, with the trophy to be awarded to the victors of the best-of-three series.” 

The article further notes how India would still enjoy this advantage in the next World Cup being hosted in three Cricketing nations. It claims, “This rule will remain in place for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia; however, due to there being three teams sharing hosting rights all with a chance of participating in the tournament, the laws state the right of a three-match finals series will be awarded to the host of the previous World Cup, which in this case would be India as well.”

Again, it’s crucial to note that these assertions are rooted in satire, aiming to provide comic relief rather than factual accuracy. However, it has to be elucidated before insane accusations start hurling from across the border, keeping in mind the recent history. 

Interestingly, in the wake of India’s remarkable performance in the recent World Cup, the Pakistani cricketing community and the English media showcased a rather infamous penchant for embracing conspiracy theories, even treating WhatsApp forwards as credible evidence. According to their narrative, these so-called “evidence” unveils a covert collusion between the ICC and BCCI. 

Evidently, the English media outlet ‘The Daily Mail’ on 14th November published an EXCLUSIVE report which was based on a ‘WhatsApp forward’. Based on some Whatsapp Forward, the English media accused BCCI of changing the pitch for the semifinal without the permission of the International Cricket Council (ICC), and individuals like senior ‘journalist’ Sagarika Ghose and the Pakistani cricketing fraternity went on to amplify the rumour by sharing the unsubstantiated claim without bothering to verify it.

Strikingly, the satirical article seems to be an inherent attempt to take a dig at these Pakistani and English Cricketing analysts who manifest the English adage ‘A bad workman blames his tools’.  

After promising Muslim appeasement in Telangana, Congress announces reservation for ‘minorities’ in Rajasthan election manifesto

OpIndia Staff
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After promising Muslim appeasement in Telangana, Congress announces reservation for ‘minorities’ in Rajasthan election manifesto

Days after resorting to minority appeasement politics in Telangana, the Congress party is eyeing to woo the Muslim community in the State of Rajasthan.

On Tuesday (21st November), the grand-old party released its manifesto for the upcoming elections in Rajasthan and vowed to offer reservations to the Muslim community in proportion to their population.

Under the section of ‘Minority Welfare’, the manifesto read, “After caste census, we will undertake to provide reservation as per their population.”

The development comes just four days ahead of the polling in the State of Rajasthan. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has vowed to undertake a caste census after coming to power in the State.

Congress is facing a wave of anti-incumbency in Rajasthan. The Ashok Gehlot-led-government is hoping to lure the Muslim community by promising ‘reservation’ ahead of polls.

Appeasement politics in Telangana

In Telangana, the Congress promised to provide ₹10,000 in financial assistance to 10th pass students, ₹15000 to 12th pass students, ₹25000 for graduates, ₹1 lakh for postgraduates and ₹5 lakhs for MPhil and PhD holders exclusively belonging to the minority community.

The party declared, “Monthly honorarium of Rs.10,000 12,000 for priests from all religions including Imams, Muezzins, Khadims, Pastors and Granthis”.

The Congress announced that all land and property records of the Wagt Board would be digitised. It has assured to reclaim ‘encroached properties’ and allot land exclusively for Christian and Muslim graveyards.

Under the pretext of ‘inclusivity’, the Congress party has promised to provide a house site and ₹5 lakhs for construction for minority families who do not own houses. Besides, it promised cash support of ₹1,00,000 for newly married couples belonging to Muslim, Christian, and Sikh Faiths.

In order to woo Muslim voters, the party said, “Revitalise SETWIN and skill development training: transform Quil Qutub Shah Urban Development authority (QQSUDA) to develop infrastructure in the Old City.”

IUML, an offshoot of Jinnah’s party, says there is no question of deviating from the ‘responsibility’ of strengthening Congress

OpIndia Staff
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IUML, an offshoot of Jinnah’s party, says there is no question of deviating from the ‘responsibility’ of strengthening Congress

Putting all speculations to rest, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has clarified that it will not join hands with the Left in Kerala and will work to strengthen the Congress-led alliance in the CPI(M)-ruled state.

Kerala IUML President Syed Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal while addressing an IUML Wayanad district council camp at Sultan Bathery, reiterated his party’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the United Democratic Front (UDF).

Speculations were rife about IUML’s growing proximity with the Left days after IUML MLA and Malappuram district general secretary P Abdul Hameed was reportedly nominated to the Left-controlled director board of Kerala State Co-operative Bank, or Kerala Bank.

According to The New Indian Express, some Muslim organisations had contacted Thangal to flag their concerns over the alleged proximity of IUML with the LDF. “IUML is not merely a constituent of the UDF, we created the front. We have the responsibility to preserve it,” Thangal said.

“If the IUML wants to change the alliance, it doesn’t need to enter through the doors of any bank. We will declare it openly, explaining the rationale behind the decision. No such circumstance exists now,” he said.

IUML general secretary PK Kunhalikutty reportedly said that the party has a “proud history of working for the resounding victory of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi”. According to reports, the Congress has breathed a sigh of relief after the IUML’s clarification.

But the CPM has said that “IUML’s mind is with us and only the body is with the UDF”, a controversial statement that was rebuffed by the IUML.

CPM leader AK Balan reportedly said that the IUML cannot continue in the UDF for long considering the current policies of the Congress.

Bringing embarrassment to the Congress-led UDF alliance in Kerala, a local leader of the IUML on 19th November shared the stage with CM Pinarayi Vijayan in Kasargod at the government’s public outreach programme ‘Nava Kerala Sadas’.

Moreover, IUML leader ET Mohammed Basheer had also sparked speculations with the statement that the party would not shy away from attending the CPI(M)’s Palestine solidarity rally should the latter send an invite for the same on 11th November.

The IUML has a hold over a significant Muslim voter base in Kerala, which makes it an asset for the minority-appeasing Left and Congress in the state. According to E. P. Jayarajan of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), the Muslim League has significant seats on its own and the Congress failed to secure any constituency itself.

Meanwhile, the IUML has already extended its support to the Congress in Telangana.

Rahul Gandhi’s bonhomie with “completely secular” IUML

During his 10-day US tour earlier this year, Congress scion Rahul Gandhi called the IUML “completely secular”. This is the same IUML which played a key role in the partition of India on religious lines in 1947.

In July, anti-Hindu slogans threatening to “hang Hindus” and “burn them alive” were raised at an IUML rally in Kasargod in Kerala.

Andhra Pradesh: 35-year-old dies of heart attack after India faces defeat in ICC 2023 World Cup final at the hands of Australia

OpIndia Staff
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Andhra Pradesh: 35-year-old dies of heart attack after India faces defeat in ICC 2023 World Cup final at the hands of Australia

Following India’s loss to Australia in the World Cup cricket final on Sunday night (19th November), a 35-year-old man from Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh passed away from a heart attack. Jyotish Kumar Yadav, the deceased, worked as a software engineer in Bengaluru.

According to the reports, Yadav had come back home for the Diwali holidays and was enjoying the cricket game on TV with his relatives and friends on 19th November. He collapsed shortly after the match ended, complaining of chest pain. He was rushed to Tirupati’s Sri Venkateswara Ramnarain Ruia government general hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

Jyotish’s friends said he became tense and anxious after India were all out for 240 after batting first. He was delighted later, when the Australian team lost three quick wickets. But then, as Australia edged closer to the target and won, he collapsed, complaining of chest pain.

Mohith Reddy, chairman of the Tirupati Urban Development Authority (TUDA), paid a visit to Jyotish’s home in Durgasamudram village on Monday (20th November) and expressed his condolences. He also offered the family all possible assistance on behalf of the state government.

Earlier, it was reported that unable to bear India’s loss in the World Cup final to Australia, a 23-year-old man allegedly committed suicide in Bankura in West Bengal on 19th November at 11 pm in the Beliatore police station area.

The deceased has been identified as Rahul Lohar, who was working at a local clothing store. Rahul had taken a leave on 19th November to watch the World Cup final match. Heartbroken by the defeat, Rahul hung himself in his room, reports quoted his brother-in-law Uttam Sur as saying.

Indian cricket team and fans alike were left with a heavy heart after the team’s defeat in the ICC 2023 World Cup final which was hosted at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Indian cricketer Mohammad Shami expressed his disappointment. He wrote, “Unfortunately yesterday was not our day. I would like to thank all Indians for supporting our team and me throughout the tournament. Thankful to PM @narendramodi for especially coming to the dressing room and raising our spirits. We will bounce back!”

Meanwhile, PM Modi, after congratulating the Australian team, lauded the spirit of Men in Blue. “Dear Team India, Your talent and determination through the World Cup was noteworthy. You’ve played with great spirit and brought immense pride to the nation. We stand with you today and always,” the PM wrote.

Is India about to face a refugee crisis? Junta soldiers and displaced people seek shelter as Myanmar faces civil war between military and ethnic rebels

OpIndia Staff
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Is India about to face a refugee crisis? Junta soldiers and displaced people seek shelter as Myanmar faces civil war between military and ethnic rebels

Fighting between the Myanmar junta and rebel forces is intensifying by the day with the latter gaining a foothold on several of the Tatmadaw, the Myanmar military, posts. As per reports, more than 400 junta troops and police officers have surrendered or fled bases across the country since ‘Operation 1027’, which was launched on 27th October in the northern Shan State.

President Myint Swe has warned that Myanmar is in danger of breaking apart. He said that Myanmar would “split into various parts” if the government “did not effectively manage the incidents happening in the border region”.

According to The Irrawaddy, at least 447 junta personnel have given up their weapons and surrendered in northern Shan State, Kayah, Chin, Rakhine and Mon states and Sagaing and Magwe regions within three weeks. The report claims that the number might be higher considering the increasing number of abandoned junta positions.

‘Operation 1027’ was launched by the “Three Brotherhood Alliance” comprising three ethnic groups namely the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and the Arakan Army (AA). Eurasian Times reported that a second operation, ‘Operation 1107’ was launched on 7th November in which the Karreni resistance forces captured at least two military bases in the southeastern Kayah State.

The operation was launched to liberate the Kayah State and support the force’s advance to Pyinmana, near the junta’s Naypyitaw fortress. More than 100 junta personnel were reportedly killed or injured on 17th November and more than 300 have surrendered since.

The alliance reportedly said that Light Infantry Battalion 129, including 127 soldiers and 134 relatives led by Major Kyaw Ye Aung surrendered on 12th November in Laukkaing Township in northern Shan State. Each defector was granted 1 million kyats (about US$476) and evacuated to safety.

The alliance has urged all junta personnel to surrender and has assured them of their safety and dignity. The Eurasian Times has reported that the Arakan Army in Rakhine State undertook the most hits on 12th November.

On 30th October, according to The Irrawaddy, 41 Light Infantry Brigade 143 troops surrendered to the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) of the Brotherhood Alliance and agreed to abandon the base near Kan Mong village in Kunlong Township. Moreover, on 31st October, at least 15 pro-Tatmadaw members in Kokang on the Chinese border surrendered.

The Brotherhood Alliance reportedly said it has seized more than 150 junta positions and six towns. National Unity Government’s Ministry of Defense, U Maung Maung Swe has said that junta troops are fleeing, being killed and surrendering.

Additionally, 38 junta personnel have surrendered this week, as per The Irrawaddy report, after the death of at least 110 troops stationed at Loikaw University in the state capital. Seven junta soldiers including a major from the Red base surrendered on 20th November as the rebel forces took control of the Indian border town of Reh Khaw Da in Falam Township.

Six resistance fighters were killed and more than 15 wounded in the fighting. The report cited Reuters claiming that an estimated 43 soldiers fled to Mizoram in India during the battle and another 29 others crossed the border on 16th November.

In Mon State, 23 junta troops from a group of 50 reinforcements surrendered after losing 14 comrades and another five soldiers were detained in clashes. Nearly 40 military posts have been abandoned in Rakhine following attacks by the Arakan Army, which further claimed that 22 junta personnel at the A Pauk Wa village police station surrendered their weapons.

Bases have also reportedly been abandoned in Kawlin, Kalaw and Salingyi in the Sagaing Region, Gangaw Township in the Magwe Region and Shwegyin Township in the Bago Region. According to Firstpost, rebel forces have captured more than 8,000 square kilometres, which is nearly half of Myanmar.

Pro-democracy forces advancing

Ever since Myanmar’s military junta, called Tatmadaw, ousted the democratically-elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, various ethnic groups have been aligning to overthrow the junta. The nationwide uprising by the Peoples Defence Force (PDF) in alliance with the Three Brotherhood Alliance has intensified their offensive which is now expected to advance to the capital, Naypyidaw.

According to the Eurasian Times, the critical phase of the operations will begin when the resistance forces challenge the power centre north of Mandalay.

China capitalising on unrest

Reports claim that while China maintains good ties with the Myanmarese military, Beijing has been supporting the rebel groups, particularly at the border areas. “The United Wa State Army (UWSA), a potent ethnic armed organisation controlling an autonomous region in Myanmar’s northeastern Shan State, receives substantial material and political support from China,” Firstpost reported.

The UWSA is reportedly a major arms supplier to the ethnic forces and its leaders command around 25,000 troops armed with Chinese-origin weapons, including FN-6-Man-Portable Air Defence Systems, armoured vehicles and various light weapons.

Moreover, the UWSA also operates a factory, as per the Firstpost report, in its controlled area where it assembles a version of the Chinese Type-81 automatic rifle. The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) which represents the Kokang minority is also ethnically Chinese.

Moreover, China also has good relations with Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party. China’s attempts to play all sides reflect the significant investment the country has made in Myanmar including energy projects, a railway line project through Mandalay and pipelines going to the Bay of Bengal.

Myanmar also serves as a bridge for China for access to the Indian Ocean. China has often used or expressed its desire to use conflicted regions and economies as an opportunity to push its projects, particularly the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and advance its aggressive expansionist strategy through the infamous debt trap that China is known for.

Myanmar nationals seek refuge in India

Meanwhile, according to Firstpost, more than 4,000 civilians and pro-democracy activists have been killed in Myanmar and around 20,000 have been jailed as the junta continues to enforce strict restrictions and censorship.

According to the Eurasian Times, thousands of Myanmarese nationals have crossed into India including 47 Myanmar army officials who crossed the international border and surrendered before the state police in Mizoram, which shares a 510-hm border area with Chin State.

The personnel were later taken to the border town of Moreh in Manipur and handed over to Myanmar military officials.

Mizoram’s Director General of Police (DGP) Anil Shukla has said that while the situation at the border with Myanmar is tense given the ongoing developments, it is also under control. Reports quoting the DGP said that the 75 Myanmarese soldiers who had crossed into Indian territory had been sent back.

Moreover, from over 5,000 Myanmarese nationals who had entered India, most have been sent back. The injured however were hospitalised for treatment. Reports claim that at least 26,000 Myanmar citizens are seeking refuge in India amid the unrest.

The fear of a 2021 repeat looms over India; it was faced with an influx of thousands of Myanmarese, largely Rohingya Muslims, back in 2021 when the junta took control of the country in a coup overthrowing Aung San Suu Kyi’s government.

With migrant influx already burdening northeastern states like Manipur, the situation in Myanmar could very well pose a fresh round of illegal immigrant pressure on the Indian adminstration.

UP: Hindu youth commits suicide after being pressured to convert to Islam by Sattar, Salman, and others, probe underway

राहुल पाण्डेय
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UP: Hindu youth commits suicide after being pressured to convert to Islam by Sattar, Salman, and others, probe underway

A Hindu youth identified as Rohit Kumar recently committed suicide, reportedly after facing pressure from some individuals to convert to Islam. The incident is from Auraiya district of Uttar Pradesh. In video that had gone viral, Rohit had stated that accused persons Sattar and Salmann had filed a ‘false case’ against him, were forcing him to marry a Muslim girl, and convert to Islam.

Rohit’s family members allege that Sattar, Salman, and others filed a case against Rohit under the POCSO Act after he refused to accept Islam. The accused also are said to have pressured the deceased to marry a Muslim girl.

However, before committing suicide by consuming poison on Saturday (18th November), Rohit expressed his emotional state through video recording. At present, one of the accused has been arrested, and the rest are being looked for by the Police. 

The complaint in this regard has been filed at the Vidhuna police station of ​​Auraiya district. The mother of the deceased, Sarojini Devi, a resident of Barke Purva village has filed the complaint in which she said that Rohit knew Sattar and that they were good friends. The duo used to visit each other often. Rohit also used to go to his house. In the course of visits, he got acquainted with Sattar’s daughter.

It is alleged that Sattar wanted to get his daughter married to Rohit. Therefore, he along with Salman and Bunty Khan pressurized Rohit to accept Islam. The family of the deceased allege that when Rohit refused to leave the Hindu religion, the accused lodged an FIR against him at Sahar police station in Auraiya on 6th September 2023.

Salman accused Rohit of kidnapping his sister, claiming she was a minor, in this FIR. Along with Rohit, the other two identified as Anuj and Aryan Khan were named in the same case, and they were accused of assisting Rohit in the kidnapping. Based on the FIR, the Police then arrested Rohit under relevant sections.

However, while talking exclusively to OpIndia, the sister of the deceased said that the girl who was claimed to be a minor by Salman was an adult. Rohit was then accused of raping and kidnapping a ‘minor girl’ under the POCSO Act, as per his sister. POCSO charges against Rohit were added after the initial FIR was filed. He was in jail for about a month or so after which he was released.

He then started earning his living by driving an e-rickshaw. On 15th November, at around 7 am, Sattar, Salman, Bunty Khan, Dulli Khan, Tunnan Khan, and Vakil Khan reached Rohit’s house, as per the family’s complaint. The accused had knives and weapons in their hands which they used to pressure Rohit to convert to Islam. Rohit was also threatened and was told that his parents would be sent to jail if he failed to convert to Islam.

Sarojini Devi claims that the villagers’ intervention saved her family’s life. Even after they left the village, Sattar and his associates continued to press Rohit to accept Islam. Rohit’s sister told OpIndia that Rohit had declared that he would not leave Hinduism under any circumstances.

On 18th November, under some urge or pressure, Rohit narrated his entire ordeal in a video and then consumed poison. He accuses Sattar’s family members of torturing him in the video.

The Auraiya Police meanwhile confirmed the incident and acknowledged Rohit Kumar’s viral video where he has stated that he was being pressurised to convert to Islam. “Rohit was in jail under POCSO and was also charged under section 376 of IPC. However, he was released on bail on 3rd November on the orders of the High Court. As per the complaint of Rohit’s family, he was asked to convert his religion to Islam and marry the Muslim family’s girl. He was being pressured to convert so he consumed poison on 18th November and died during treatment. One person has been arrested. Others are being looked for,” Police said.

Police have registered a case naming Sattar, Salman, Bunty, Vakil, Dulli, and Tunnan Khan in this matter. Action is being taken against all of them under sections 147, 506, and 306 of IPC along with section 3/5(1) of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act.

OpIndia has the FIR copy. According to Auraiya Superintendent of Police Charu Nigam, one accused has been arrested and the rest are being looked for and the matter is being investigated.

This news was originally published in Hindi. The link to the original article is here.

Controversial ‘activist’ Teesta Setalvad targets Hindu activist and BJP leader T Raja ahead of Telangana polls, files complaint with Election Commission

OpIndia Staff
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Controversial ‘activist’ Teesta Setalvad targets Hindu activist and BJP leader T Raja ahead of Telangana polls, files complaint with Election Commission

Controversial ‘activist’ Teesta Setalvad, who is known for the fabrication of evidence in cases concerning the 2002 Gujarat riots, has now begun targeting the BJP leaders ahead of the elections scheduled in several states. Recently, Setalvad filed a complaint to the Election Commission through Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) against BJP leader Tiger Raja Singh claiming that the latter delivered a hate speech against the minority community ahead of the elections in Telangana.

In the complaint, the CJP maintained that Singh delivered hate speech in his constituency Goshamahal in Telangana on 13th November. Addressing an election rally, Singh could be heard saying, “You all need to ensure that more Hindus cast their votes by telling everyone that our enemy indulges in slaughtering cows, committing ‘Love-Jihad and forced religious conversions. This is a fight of our Dharam, we have to ensure that adharmis lose this battle.”

CJP in the complaint to the Election Commission on 14th November said that Singh’s speech was aimed at “instigating disaffection, spreading misinformation, peddling conspiracies and promoting violence against religious minorities.” The letter also alleged that Singh indulged in the corrupt practices of promoting enmity between different communities and raised calls for violence to gain votes ahead of the elections.

During the electoral campaign, Singh said that he was ready to die to serve the nation and that would never support terrorists. He also slammed the opposition leader Asaduddin Owaisi, president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) for extending support to the terrorists and furthering the Islamist agenda. However, CJP claimed that Singh ‘targeted’ Owaisi for his religious identity and threatened people to vote against him.

The edited video of Singh’s speech from the electoral campaign was posted by ‘Hindutva Watch’ which has a history of spreading fake news and defaming Hindus. The Hindutva Watch has also been booked several times in the past for spreading fake news and attempting to incite riots within the state of Maharashtra.

“BJP leader T Raja Singh delivered hate and conspiracy theories-filled speech against Muslims with overt threats of violence at an election rally,” Hindutva Watch wrote while posting an edited clip of T Raja Singh’s post on Twitter.

Notably, the CJP filed a complaint to the Election Commission based on this video posted by Hindutva Watch which has a history of spreading fake news and defaming Hindus. The CJP blatantly emphasized that Singh’s speech breaches all equality and non-discrimination provisions (secular and democratic values) enshrined in the Indian Constitution, as well as offences defined as “corrupt practices” under the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Since the Model Code of Conduct went into effect in the state on October 9, the complaint detailed the violations allegedly committed by Singh in accordance with the MCC’s guidelines.

Screenshot from a complaint by CJP to the election commission

Interestingly, the Twitter (X) platform took cognizance of Singh’s video posted by Hindutva Watch and asked it to take down the video. Twitter in an official mail sent to Hindutva Watch said that the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police Station had noted that the content shared by Hindutva Watch violated the laws of India and that the video needed to be taken down immediately. However, the video continues to appear on the handle Hindutva Watch.

The screenshot was posted by Hindutva Watch on X

CJP, which is registered as a Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 and as a Trust under the Bombay Public Trusts Act, 1950 claims to bring to light instances of ‘Hate Speech’. It was formed on April 1, 2002, and is headed by President Nandan Maluste and Secretary Teesta Setalvad. Ironically, the organization has based its complaint on a video posted by Hindutva Watch which has been booked in the past for spreading fake news, hate against Hindus, and defaming Hinduism.

Notably, another complaint has been filed against BJP’s T Raja Singh for allegedly promoting enmity between classes in Goshamahal on 14th November. The suo moto case has been registered under Section 125 (promoting enmity between classes in connection with election) of the Representation of the Public Act 1951.

According to the police, Raja Singh gave a hate speech on 14th November at a community hall in Maharajgunj. Police are said to have filed a suo motu case after reviewing the video clip in which Raja Singh allegedly targeted a specific community.

Elections in the state of Telangana are to be held on November 30.

‘Aap chronology samajhiye’: What exactly is going on with OpenAI, their Board, Sam Altman, Microsoft, Satya Nadella, etc? Drama explained

Anurag
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‘Aap chronology samajhiye’: What exactly is going on with OpenAI, their Board, Sam Altman, Microsoft, Satya Nadella, etc? Drama explained

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has conquered the top position in the tech industry’s future. OpenAI is presently at the forefront of the revolution. However, in a short span of one week, the seismic shifts within the organisation, notably the sudden departure of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sam Altman, have shaken the industry. Here is everything you need to know about the drama happening at the OpenAI, including the key players, unfolding events and potentially far-reaching consequences surrounding the unexpected series of events.

Who is Sam Altman?

To understand the importance of Altman’s departure, it is essential to recognise his crucial role in the genesis of OpenAI. Altman is one of the original founders of the organisation. He was behind the process of securing vital funding for the company back in 2015 from some very influential investors, including Elon Musk and Peter Thiel. As the organisation transformed into what it is today, Altman grew in the organisation.

From being a partner at the startup incubator Y Combinator to assuming the role of the president at OpenAI in 2019, he played crucial roles at every step. When ChatGPT was launched in 2022, it brought OpenAI into the limelight as the creator of the fastest-growing chatbot application. For the unaware, Altman and Musk had co-chaired the board at OpenAI till 2019, after which Altman became full-time CEO.

The surprising exit

On 17th November, a bombshell dropped when OpenAI’s board of directors unexpectedly announced the departure of Sam Altman. The tech community was bewildered by the update as there were no prior signs of something like this happening at the organisation. The unconventional timing and how the announcement was made and departing from the customary post-market hours protocol made the exit more mysterious. The board claimed the primary reason behind his expulsion from the organisation was Altman’s lack of consistency in communication and transparency. They claimed the board lost confidence in his leadership.

The departure raised eyebrows not only because it was abrupt but also because Altman climbed the ladder to become a prominent face of the future of AI. As the CEO of OpenAI, he played a significant role in giving the right direction to the company through the transformative launch of ChatGPT, making the sudden severance all the more puzzling for industry observers.

Unraveling the mystery

Following his departure from the company, speculations and rumors spread like wildfire on social media. The industry experts begin scrutinising the board’s statement for clues. Altman finally broke the silence on X (formerly Twitter) and expressed his affection for his time at OpenAI. Still, he did not provide any concrete details about the circumstances that led to his departure. His statement’s absence of clarity further intensified the tech industry’s curiosity. The desire to get a more comprehensive understanding of the events spiked across social media platforms and the industry itself.

The void of information created around Altman’s departure from the organisation was filled with speculations and stories with technology journalists, industry analysts, and the general public attempting to piece together a narrative that could shed some light on the series of events.

OpenAI’s President quits

But the drama was far from ending. Adding another layer to the havoc, co-founder and president of OpenAI, Greg Brockman, stepped down from the post of chairman on the same day Altman was removed from the organisation. The board was expecting him to retain other roles at the organisation. However, subsequent events revealed his intention to sever ties with OpenAI entirely.

Brockman’s departure was more than enough to bring the “new leadership” at OpenAI to its knees. It raised questions about the underlying issues that might have resulted in the departure of both Altman and Brockman. The speculations led to the belief that there was a more profound internal struggle or misalignment within the organisation.

Altman’s Firing: Behind the scenes

Greg Brockman’s disclosure of the events leading to Altman’s firing shed light on the internal dynamics, offering a glimpse into the backstage of OpenAI’s leadership drama. Altman reportedly received a text message from OpenAI’s chief scientist, Ilya Sutskever, the evening before a decisive meeting. In this meeting, conducted over Google Meet, Altman faced dismissal by the entire board, with Brockman absent. Brockman later learned of his removal from the board but retention in other roles at the company, adding complexity to Altman’s abrupt departure.

The revelation of these behind-the-scenes interactions heightened the sense of intrigue surrounding Altman’s exit. The lack of a unified narrative from OpenAI’s leadership further fueled speculation about the factors that led to such a consequential decision.

The ‘Why’ behind Altman’s firing

Though the exact reasons for Altman’s removal from the organisation were still hazy, tech journalist Kara Swisher’s insights suggest a “misalignment” between OpenAI’s for-profit and non-profit arms. Furthermore, she reported that there were concerns by Chief Scientist Ilya Sutskever about the company’s increasing focus on profitability, and it played a crucial role in the chronology of the events. Altman allegedly prioritised profits and product development over AI safety, which becomes concerning within OpenAI’s non-profit sector and complicates the organisation’s situation.

Though it is not confirmed if Swisher’s reporting was what happened behind the scenes, it brought a fundamental tension within OpenAI to the forefront. In short, there was a lack of balance between the pursuit of profit and the original ethos of the organisation as a non-profit entity dedicated to advancing AI for the benefit of humanity. The clash of such objectives hinted at a more profound struggle on an ideological level simmering beneath the ‘all sparkling face value’ of the organisation.

Role of Ilya Sutskever

The shakeup at the leadership level brought tensions between Altman and key figures on the board, including Quora CEO Adam D’Angelo, entrepreneur Tasha McCauley, and Georgetown’s Helen Toner. Notably, chief scientist at OpenAI Ilya Sutskever, who is also the last co-founder left on the board, reportedly clashed with Altman over the latter’s growth-oriented focus, especially concerning plans to customise ChatGPT.

Sutskever is best known at the organisation for prioritising AI safety. He allegedly voiced concerns to the board and gained support against Altman. In the aftermath, Altman stepped down as chairman, and OpenAI’s president, Greg Brockman, also relinquished the role, with interim CEO Mira Murati taking charge amid the company’s internal restructuring.

Interestingly, all the mess happened on a Google Meet! On Thursday, Sutskever contacted Altman and asked him to join the talk the next day at noon. Everyone was present when he joined the Google Meet, apart from Brockman. Sutskever informed Altman he was fired. Nineteen minutes later, Brockman was brought to the call, where Sutskever informed him that he was being kicked out from the board.

The most shocking revelation was about Microsoft not being looped in about Altman’s removal from the organisation, despite being a major investor. Soon after the announcement, Microsoft took a significant hit as its share prices dropped significantly, reducing its value by tens of billions of dollars.

New leadership at OpenAI

As Altman and Brockman departed from the company, OpenAI announced new leadership. Former Twitch CEO Emmett Shear was hired as the interim Chief. On the other hand, Mira Murati was hired as the Chief Technology Officer.

The bid to bring Altman back

The for-profit arm of OpenAI that major investors, including Microsoft back, expressed dissatisfaction with the decision to remove Altman. Notably, Microsoft has invested around USD 13 billion in the company. It underscores the importance of Altman’s leadership for OpenAI’s profitability. Reports suggested that the board contacted him within 24 hours of removing Altman to explore possibilities of bringing him back.

Furthermore, an external push to bring Altman back to OpenAI highlighted the complex web of interests around OpenAI. Several tech companies, including Microsoft, have significant investments in the company. The investment is not meant merely for the non-profit endeavours but also for the potential profitability of the organisation under the leadership of, well, Altman! The external pressure put light on the delicate balance that the organisation has to maintain between its mission-driven non-profit aspirations and the financial interests of its investors.

The unsuccessful reunion

The situation’s complexity paced towards the point of no coming back when over 700 employees gave a deadline to bring back Altman, but the board failed to comply. Efforts to bring back Altman and Brockman faced challenges. The board had agreed to employee demands that included the board’s resignation and the former leaders’ return, but it did not materialise in time. As a result, at least three top researchers at the company resigned.

What happened behind the curtains was that on Sunday, Altman and Brockman came back to the company’s premises on Murati’s invitation. However, by the deadline given by the employees, nothing concrete happened. A new board construction was discussed, with names like Marisa Mayer, Brian Chesky, and Sheryl Sandberg floated. Though there were signs that Murati convinced Altman and Brockman to join back, it did not happen. Sutskever informed the world that Altman refused to join back. Later, dozens of employees quit OpenAI.

But the turmoil did not end there. OpenAI employees started tweeting the exact phrase repeatedly: “OpenAI is nothing without its people.” Around 550 of 700 employees signed a letter demanding the resignation of the entire board of directors. They threatened to quit and join Microsoft unless Altman and Brockman were brought back. Shockingly, one of the signees was none other than Sutskever. Not only did he sign the letter, he called his actions “a big mistake”. He wrote on X, “I deeply regret my participation in the board’s actions. I never intended to harm OpenAI. I love everything we’ve built together, and I will do everything I can to reunite the company.” Altman responded with three heart emojis.

The resignation of the researchers highlighted the internal dissent within OpenAI’s ranks. It showcased how Altman’s leadership was seen at the company as several employees openly supported him. In contrast, others chose to maintain a distance from the organisation in light of the recent events.

Microsoft swoops in, Satya Nadella hires Sam Altman and Brockman both

Interestingly, Microsoft, which owns almost half of OpenAI, recently announced that it has hired Altman and Brockman to lead the new AI research team. Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella announced that Sam Altman is joining Microsoft along with several other OpenAI staff. Taking to X, Microsoft chief Satya Nadella said, “We’re extremely excited to share the news that Sam Altman and Greg Brockman, together with colleagues, will be joining Microsoft to lead a new advanced AI research team.” 

As of now, there is a cloud of uncertainty over the future of the company that has assured its employees that negotiations are underway to bring the former leadership back. Altman, appreciative of his colleagues, has hinted at his love for the OpenAI team. However, there is a possibility that in the end, Altman might contemplate establishing his own AI company, and the former employees who support him would make a significant shift to leave OpenAI. The future of OpenAI hangs in the balance, with the potential for groundbreaking developments in the days to come.

Meanwhile, social media is having fun with memes and jokes about how the first job that AI took was of OpenAI head Sam Altman and the irony of ‘people’ issues haunting the AI industry.

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