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Who is Francesca Albanese, the United Nations rapporteur for Gaza strip, now facing US sanctions for “political and economic warfare against the United States and Israel”

Rukma Rathore
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Who is Francesca Albanese, the United Nations rapporteur for Gaza strip, now facing US sanctions for “political and economic warfare against the United States and Israel”

The United States declared on 9th July that it has sanctioned an independent expert who had been designated by the United Nations to look into claims of the alleged human rights violations in the Palestinian territory. Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur for the West Bank and Gaza, has been a vocal opponent of the Jewish state.

She called its actions in Gaza Strip “genocide” against the Palestinian people and “violation of international laws.” She firmly endorsed the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed that he was slapping sanctions on Francesca Albanese, the Special Rapporteur for the UN Human Rights Council, for her despicable and illegal attempts to compel the ICC to commence action against US and Israeli officials, firms and executives.

He warned that her “campaign of political and economic warfare against the United States and Israel will no longer be tolerated. We will always stand by our partners in their right to self-defense.” Rubio further asserted that the Western power intends to continue pursuing every measure it believes is necessary to combat lawfare and defend its sovereignty alongside that of its allies.

Albanese reacted to the development and claimed that the powerful are penalising those who advocate for the weak and added that “it is not a sign of strength, but of guilt. Let’s stand tall, together.”

The UN rapporteur expressed, “It looks like I’ve hit a nerve. My concern is there are people dying in Gaza while you and I are speaking, and the United Nations are totally unable to intervene,” in a conversation with the Middle East Eye.

She in an earlier post stated that everyone’s attention must be on Gaza, where children are starving to death in the arms of their mothers while their fathers and siblings are being bombed to pieces as they try to find food. “Enough. Send navies. Break the siege. Together, we can. Together, we must,” she urged.

The sanctions, according to Albanese, were “calculated to weaken my mission.” She declared, “I’ll continue to do what I have to do,” during a press appearance in Slovenia. Furthermore, she questioned the motive behind the action and asked “for having exposed a genocide? For having denounced the system? They never challenged me on the facts.” Both Israel and the United States which offers military assistance, have vehemently refuted her allegations.

Volker Turk, the UN high commissioner for human rights, demanded that the US sanctions be “promptly reversed.” He stressed, “UN member states should engage substantively and constructively, rather than resorting to punitive measures, even in the face of fierce disagreement.”

Notably, the White House sanctioned four ICC judges last month for their “illegitimate and baseless actions” against the United States and its allies.

What is a rapporteur

Albanese is a high-profile member and part of an expert panel selected by the Geneva-based 47-member UN Human Rights Council. They communicate with the body to facilitate the monitoring of human rights records in diverse countries and the global compliance with specific rights.

They regularly submit reports to the body in order to maintain records on the global observance of particular rights as well as the human rights records in different nations. Special rapporteurs have no official power and do not speak for the United Nations. However, their findings help prosecutors in the International Criminal Court and other venues working on transnational justice issues. Additionally, their reports could pressurize countries.

There are now 13 experts on particular nations and territories chosen by the council including Albanese. Documenting abuses and violations of human rights, special rapporteurs often have one-year renewable mandates and frequently operate independently of the nation they are probing.

Afghanistan, Belarus, Burundi, Cambodia, North Korea, Eritrea, Iran, Myanmar and Russia all have their own rapporteurs. One on Syria is expected to take over once a protracted commission of investigation on the nation concludes its mandate. Additionally, the Central African Republic, Mali and Somalia each have three “independent experts” who specialise in providing technical support.

The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) appoints an impartial expert known as the special rapporteur to provide updates on “human rights abuses” occurring in Palestinian territory. The 1993 Committee on Human Rights resolution is the source of the special rapporteur’s mission. The rapporteur publicly shares the evaluation of the state of human rights while collaborating with governments and civil society. They receive logistical support from the UNHRC, which also conducts yearly reports and frequent site inspections.

Albanese has expertise in international law and migration, having worked with the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and other international organisations on refugee and displacement issues, according to the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Her position is reportedly an integral part of an established system to monitor and document the rights of Palestinians living under Israeli control.

Who is Francesca Albanese

Italian human rights attorney Francesca Albanese gained notoriety as the special rapporteur for Gaza and the West Bank, a position she has since occupied May 2022. She is a Middle East and human rights expert, an international lawyer and an affiliate scholar at Georgetown University’s Institute for the Study of International Migration since 2015.

She previously taught and lectured at several universities in Europe and the Middle East. She has written extensively about Palestine and the mission along activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in various publications. She is a co-author of Palestinian Refugees in International Law (2020).

According to her biography on the Georgetown University website, she worked with the UN from 2003 to 2013, including its human rights office along with its Palestinian humanitarian organisation and the legal affairs division of UNRWA. During an Ebola outbreak in West Africa, she served as a protection adviser for Project Concern International, an American non-governmental organisation, while she was in Washington from 2013 to 2015.

She offers lectures on “the question of Palestinian refugees in context” at several academic institutions and research facilities, such as the University of Bethlehem’s MICAD program, where she also oversees thesis of master’s students.

She has a BA in law from the University of Pisa (cum laude) and an LL.M. in human rights from School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). She has links with the American University of Beirut’s Issam Fares Institute and ISIM (Institute for the Study of International Migration) as of 2015 (she has not been a resident since 2016).

Loud detractor of Israel

Albanese has vehemently denounced Israel’s actions in Gaza since the start of its conflict with Hamas in October 2023. She has also slammed the Trump administration’s repeated efforts to shut down opponents of Israel’s counterterrorism efforts. She called the situation in Gaza “apocalyptic” and accused Israel of committing “one of the cruellest genocides in modern history” in her 3rd July speech to the UNHRC.

According to her, Israel’s actions were a part of a “settler colonial project of erasure” that had been intensified in recent months by the use of military force, mass displacement and famine.

Albanese in a March 2024 report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council that there were “reasonable grounds to believe” that Israel had committed genocide through mass murder, the destruction of civilian infrastructure, and the establishment of circumstances that might result in the physical extermination of Palestinians in Gaza.

In June 2025, she presented a report in which she named many multinational companies, including banks and armaments manufacturers, that were allegedly supporting or making money because of Israel’s opeartions. She called on member nations to follow through on prosecutions at the International Criminal Court (ICC), halt military transactions and apply targeted sanctions on Israel.

Her report was described as “legally groundless, defamatory, and a flagrant abuse of her office” by Israel’s diplomatic mission in Geneva and charged with “whitewashed Hamas atrocities.”

She recently alleged that her analysis “shows why Israel’s genocide continues: because it is lucrative for many.” She then proceeded to take the names of multiple major US corporations involved in supporting Israel in its war against Hamas in Gaza.

Furthermore, she has also been infamous for her remarks. She implied that the “Jewish lobby” was influencing US government choices about Israel and the Palestinians in 2014. According to reports, she later expressed regret, but denied that it was antisemitic.

Israel has accused the Human Rights Council, Albanese and past rapporteurs of prejudice as well as shared a tense relationship with them for a long time. Israel reportedly declined to work with a special “Commission of Inquiry” that was set up after the fight with Hamas in 2021.

Aam Aadmi Party tries to instigate people against action on illegal encroachments, asks Delhi youths to head to Faridabad on 13 July to attend ‘Maha Panchayat’

OpIndia Staff
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Aam Aadmi Party tries to instigate people against action on illegal encroachments, asks Delhi youths to head to Faridabad on 13 July to attend ‘Maha Panchayat’

Largely irrelevant after losing power in New Delhi, the Aam Aadmi Party has resorted to instigating people against the government’s action on illegal encroachments. The Aam Aadmi Party has extended support to the Maha Panchayat to be held on 13th July 2025, against the demolition drive in Anangpur in Haryana’s Faridabad.

The party has appealed to the youth of 360 villages of Delhi rural to reach the Maha Panchayat of Anangpur Sangharsh Samiti in maximum numbers.

Addressing a press conference on 11th July, AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj said, “To protect our village, we appeal to the youth from all 360 villages of Delhi, especially the younger generation, to join us on 13th July at the Mahapanchayat in Anangpur. Together, we will plan a united strategy to resist the government’s actions,” said AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj while addressing a press conference.

The AAP leader alleged that the government has already acquired the land in question. Now, the government is trying to forcibly snatch whatever little land is left from the villagers. The AAP leader said that his party oppose this and a delegation of Aam Aadmi Party will also participate in the Maha Panchayat. He has also called upon all the workers of AAP to reach Anangpur.

Faridabad Aravalis, illegal encroachments and politics

Anangpur is a historic village in Faridabad and comes under the Aravali forest region. This region is protected under the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA) of 1990. This restricts non-forest activities in reserve forest land across 10 districts, including Haryana’s Faridabad.

In July 2022, the Supreme Court stated that Aravali land protected under PLPA (special orders) should be treated as forest, with provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, and any illegal structures should be demolished. This was followed by a 2013 National Green Tribunal (NGT) order banning non-forest activities in the protected forest land.

Subsequently, over 5,000 notices warning of demolition were served to property owners across Faridabad as part of the intensified crackdown on illegal structures

In December 2023, the Haryana government undertook a ground-truthing exercise and identified 6793 illegal structures across four villages in Faridabad: 5,948 in Anangpur, 339 in Ankhir, 313 in Lakkarpur, and 193 in Mewla Maharajpur. These illegal structures include houses, farmhouses, and banquet halls constructed on protected forest land.

Notably, reports say that the Forest Department has cleared encroachments at 85 of the 730 protected forest areas in Faridabad’s Aravali region.

In Anangpur, several villagers are opposed to the encroachment clearance drive, citing the village’s historical significance. It is said that this village was founded by Anangpal Tomar over 1,300 years ago. On 3rd July, three people were arrested in Anangpur for attacking a demolition team and police. The arrested trio were booked for obstructing government work.

In an attempt to exploit the local fury over the demolition drive in Anangpur and nearby 12 villages, the Aam Aadmi Party has lent support to the upcoming Mahapanchayat and is also instigating people against action on illegal encroachments.

So far, over 200 illegal structures have been reported to have been razed in Anangpur, while around 6000 are marked for removal. The Forest Department is also reviewing records in Lakkarpur to continue the anti-encroachment drive.

In Anangpur, the demolition drive has been ongoing for about 20 days, and the Forest Department, in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation, has demolished about 80 big farm houses so far.

Meanwhile, the Union Minister of State Krishan Pal Gurjar has assured the affected locals that none of the legitimate houses will be demolished. However, the residents of Anangpur remain concerned.

The anti-encroachment drive is being undertaken on the orders of the Supreme Court, and the Forest Department has to submit the report of the action to the Supreme Court by the end of July. Yet, the Aam Aadmi Party is politicising the court-ordered action for its own gains. By inciting Delhi youth to head to Faridabad to protest against a court-ordered action, the Aam Aadmi Party is trying to derail the encroachment clearance drive simply expand its appeal beyond Delhi by positioning itself as the ‘defender’ of the distressed communities in Haryana ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.

Bhagwant Mann doubles down on his attack on PM Modi’s foreign visits, makes false claim that Modi reached the countries uninvited

OpIndia Staff
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Bhagwant Mann doubles down on his attack on PM Modi’s foreign visits, makes false claim that Modi reached the countries uninvited

Unbothered by the Ministry of External Affairs’ condemnation of his insulting remarks regarding PM Modi’s recent 5-nation visit, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann continues to poke fun at PM Modi’s foreign trips.

The comedian-turned-politician brought up PM Modi’s 2015 stopover in Pakistan to meet the then Pakistani PM Nawaz Sharif, and said that he goes to countries uninvited. “It seems that when the PM is flying in his plane, he looks down and asks, ‘Which country is that?’ When told it’s so-and-so, he says, ‘No worries, we will reach an hour late where we are going; let’s land here now.’ He decides to land just anywhere. That’s how he landed in Pakistan too,” Mann said in the Punjab state assembly on Friday (11th July). “The PM goes to countries at times without even an invitation. He landed in Pakistan to eat Biryani. We can’t go to Pakistan, but the PM can go,” he added.

Justifying his distasteful comments, the Punjab CM asked if he did not have the right to question the government’s foreign policy. “Don’t we have the right to ask the PM what foreign policy is? Who has supported us? Then why are you moving around?” Mann said on Thursday (10th July).

Further ridiculing PM Modi, Mann said that the government publicised that PM Modi stopped the war between the two nations, but he was not able to resolve the issues between Punjab and Haryana. “Ads coming that Modi has stopped a war between two nations. Then why can’t the PM resolve issues between Punjab and Haryana?” Mann said. After the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the remarks of Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann poking fun at PM Modi’s recent 5-nation visit, Mann on Thursday (10th July) asked if he could not question the government’s foreign policy.

“Don’t we have the right to ask the PM what foreign policy is? Who has supported us? Then why are you moving around?” Mann said. The AAP leader had earlier alleged that PM Modi frequently visits countries without any diplomatic reasons or outcomes. “PM is going to nations that we don’t even know the names. Taking honours from such small nations. The same number of people gather here while a JCB is at work here,” he said.

No visit was uninvited

Mann’s claim that PM Modi reached countries uninvited is completely false and baseless. One of the visits during the recent 5-nation tour was to Brazil to attend the BRICS summit. As a founding member of the bloc, it is customary for the PM to attend the summit every year. He went to Ghana, the first stop in the 5-nation visit, on the invitation of President John Dramani Mahama.

No head of government or country visits another country ‘uninvited’. Such state visits are preceded by extensive preparations, and multiple rounds of meetings of officials. Before PM visits a country, officials, sometimes even foreign ministers, visit those countries for preparatory work. The groundwork for agreements and MoUs signed during the state visits are prepared in such preliminary meetings.

For the AAP leader, visit to countries like Ghana, Namibia and Trinidad & Tobago may look like insignificant, but close relation with every country is important for India. Some of these countries, especially the African nations, are rich in natural resources, important for India’s emerging industries like semiconductors and EVs. Similarly, Brazil and Argentina are major economies and important members of the global south.

The MEA harshly criticised Mann

The AAP leader had earlier alleged that PM Modi frequently visits countries without any diplomatic reasons or outcomes. “PM is going to nations that we don’t even know the names. Taking honours from such small nations. The same number of people gather here while a JCB is on work here,” he said.

Mann undermined PM Modi’s visits to the five nations of Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia by making fun of the small size of their populations. “PM has gone somewhere. I think it is Ghana. He is going to be back and he is welcome. God knows which countries he keeps visiting, ‘Magnesia’, ‘Galveaisa’, ‘Tarvesia’. He does not stay in a country with 140 crore people. He is visiting countries where the population is 10,000 and he is getting the ‘highest awards’ there. Here, 10,000 people gather to watch a JCB… What has he gotten himself into!…,” he said.

The Chief Minister’s remarks were harshly criticised by the MEA, which described them as “irresponsible and regrettable”. “We have seen some comments made by a high state authority about India’s relations with friendly countries from the Global South. These remarks are irresponsible and regrettable and do not behove the state authority,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said without naming Mann.

Prime Minister Modi’s 5-nation visit ended on 9th July. During his trip, PM Modi’s was conferred with the highest civilian honours of Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Brazil and Namibia. His strategic visit to the countries was aimed at building bilateral partnerships and countering the influence of China’s aggressive policies. These visits were significant for strengthening India’s position as a responsible global power as all these countries expressed interest in building long-term partnerships with India.

Digital India Foundation opposes Pakistan’s membership bid for AI Alliance Network citing security concerns, highlights potential weaponisation of AI

ANI
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Digital India Foundation opposes Pakistan’s membership bid for AI Alliance Network citing security concerns, highlights potential weaponisation of AI

The Digital India Foundation (DIF), a founding member of the AI Alliance Network (AIANET), has strongly objected to the membership application of Pakistan’s AI Technology Centre (AITeC) to AIANET, citing serious risks to the alliance’s credibility, security, and shared values, according to a statement released by Digital India Foundation.

Digital India Foundation stated that Pakistan’s systemic support of terrorism, ongoing scrutiny by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), potential weaponisation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through AITeC’s specialised labs, and the absence of institutional accountability in Pakistan’s AI ecosystem, pose a direct threat to India’s national security and to AIANET’s foundational principles.

Dr. Arvind Gupta, Co-Founder and Head, Digital India Foundation, said, “The membership application of AITeC should be seen as Pakistan’s way of gaining access to our R&D and technology with the aim of weaponizing AI through their specialized labs. We need to ensure that this does not happen. The Pahalgam terrorist attack and the recent Indo-Pak conflict highlight the need for continued vigilance by India to ensure that Pakistan’s efforts to undermine regional stability do not succeed.”

Digital India Foundation also raised concerns about several of AITeC’s centres, which it said have dual-use and military applications. The Autonomous AI & Decision Support Lab, Computer Vision Lab, and Software Optimization for Edge Computing Lab were cited as possessing capabilities that could be redirected toward offensive cyber operations, cross-border attacks, and autonomous targeting systems.

The Foundation said that these technologies, in the hands of a state with a record of supporting terrorism, could enable operational enhancements for nonstate actors. It referenced the 2025 U.S. Country Reports on Terrorism, noting Pakistan’s continued protection of groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Further, highlighting security concerns, Digital India Foundation pointed to Pakistan’s ongoing FATF grey-list status due to failures in countering terror financing and money laundering. It warned that AITeC’s Data Science Lab and Quantum Machine Learning & Cognitive Computing Lab could potentially be misused to automate illicit financial flows and cryptocurrency-based fundraising for extremist networks.

Digital India Foundation contrasted this with AIANET members, which are governed by democratic institutions, enforceable data protection laws, and independent oversight bodies that uphold ethical and accountable AI development, conditions absent in Pakistan’s current environment.

The Foundation said in its letter that Pakistan’s AI ecosystem suffers from major deficiencies in education, research, and governance. It noted that Pakistan’s draft National AI Policy remains vague and unenforceable, and the country lacks a national data protection law. It added that military-led entities such as the Pakistan Air Force’s Centre of Artificial Intelligence and Computing (CENTAIC) dominate the nation’s AI strategy, undermining civilian innovation.

Digital India Foundation emphasized that AITeC’s integration into this militarised AI framework directly contradicts the AIANET’s mission to advance AI for the public good and peaceful global cooperation.

In its concluding appeal, Digital India Foundation urged AIANET members to reject AITeC’s application entirely to preserve the alliance’s integrity, protect global AI collaboration, and uphold the principles of responsible, democratic, and peaceful technological advancement.

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

Ajit Doval challenges anyone to show a single proof of damage to Indian assets during Operation Sindoor, calls out Pakistani propaganda

OpIndia Staff
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Ajit Doval challenges anyone to show a single proof of damage to Indian assets during Operation Sindoor, calls out Pakistani propaganda

The dramatic escalation between India and Pakistan following the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack culminated in Operation Sindoor. This precision military response has since become a case study in modern information warfare. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval‘s recent challenge at IIT Madras cuts to the heart of this battle: “Show me one photo of Indian damage, even a glass being broken”. This statement isn’t mere rhetoric; it exposes a calculated Pakistani disinformation campaign built on fabricated victories and recycled imagery.

The core of Doval’s challenge

Doval revealed that Operation Sindoor hit precisely nine targets deep inside Pakistan. This included terror hubs in Bahawalpur (JeM) and Muridke (LeT). The entire operation took just 23 minutes. Satellite images later confirmed the damage. India achieved its objectives with zero collateral damage.

The mission showcased India’s indigenous capability. It relied completely on homegrown technology. This covered navigation, targeting, and execution. It marked a strategic shift for India. The move was from border skirmishes to deep-territory counterterrorism.

Doval also said that foreign media’s reports were contradicted by evidence. He specifically mentioned outlets like The New York Times. These outlets had amplified Pakistan’s claim of “retaliation“. However, they could not produce any visual proof of damage in India. Instead, their own satellite images accidentally confirmed India’s story. The images validated India’s precision strike claims.

Pakistan’s debunked claims: A pattern of fabrication

Pakistan’s military media (ISPR) and online supporters ran a coordinated campaign. They claimed two major victories. First, they alleged shooting down Indian fighter jets, including Rafales. They also said they captured pilots. Second, they claimed destroying Indian bases like Srinagar Airbase and an Army Brigade HQ.

But the reality was different. The story about downing jets, especially Rafales, was a hoax. A key viral image supposedly showing a downed Rafale was fake. It was actually from a September 2024 MiG-29 training crash in Rajasthan. The CEO of Rafale’s maker, Dassault Aviation, Eric Trappier, was clear. He stated: “What Pakistan is claiming about downing three Rafales is simply not true”.

The “evidence” presented online was also fake. Pro-Pakistan accounts shared misleading content. They used a video of the huge 2020 Beirut explosion and falsely claimed it showed retaliatory strikes on India. They passed off footage from the Battlefield 3 video game as real drone strikes. They even recycled an old clip of sectarian clashes inside Pakistan, pretending it showed the attack on Srinagar Airbase. None of it was real.

The Anatomy of a disinformation campaign

Pakistan’s ISPR-linked accounts rapidly pushed false narratives about Operation Sindoor. Some posts gained 3 million views in mere hours. Mainstream Pakistani media amplified these claims without verification. This tactic mirrors Pakistan’s response after the 2019 Balakot strikes. Back then, it denied losing an F-16, despite U.S. confirmation.

During Operation Sindoor, specific false claims emerged. One showed “Rafale wreckage,” but it was actually from a 2024 Indian MiG-29 crash. Another used a “Srinagar Airbase strike” video, which was really old footage from clashes in Pakistan. Pakistan also claimed “massive retaliation,” destroying 15 Indian locations. Yet, satellite images showed no damage. There was zero evidence supporting this claim.

Why this matters: The new frontlines of war

Doval’s challenge goes beyond military pride. It shows a key problem, information asymmetry. India shares openly, while Pakistan hides online. This digital deception hurts Pakistan’s global credibility. Meanwhile, India’s tech sovereignty made a difference. We have built our own systems. This meant real-time intelligence and precision strikes. India relied less on foreign tech. This matters globally.

Conclusion

Operation Sindoor underscores a paradigm shift, victory is no longer just territorial but narrative. Doval’s challenge—backed by satellite evidence and technological prowess—exposes Pakistan’s propaganda as a house of cards. For the international community, this is a wake-up call: in an era of deepfakes and synthetic media, verifying claims isn’t just journalistic duty—it’s a safeguard against escalation. As Doval asserted, “We missed none, and hit nowhere else”. In that precision lies India’s strategic edge—and Pakistan’s chronic credibility deficit.

Jaisalmer: Violent Muslim mob including women and kids launches attack on Hindu villagers to stop re-construction of historic cenotaphs, cops injured in stone pelting

OpIndia Staff
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Jaisalmer: Violent Muslim mob including women and kids launches attack on Hindu villagers to stop re-construction of historic cenotaphs, cops injured in stone pelting

On 10th July, members of the Muslim community pelted stones at police personnel and Hindus constructing cenotaphs (chhatris) in Basanpir hamlet of Jaisalmer, in protest of the reconstruction undertaken to honour Ramchandra Sodha and Hadud Paliwal, near a pond. Women and children were positioned at the front of the mob to throw stones. The videos also show schoolgirls participating in the assault.

The Chhatris were built by the then Maharawal Gaj Singh in 1835 in Basanpir village, and are a symbol of historical and cultural heritage. However, they were demolished by some people in 2019. Therefore, the villagers have decided to rebuilt the monuments, and started work in 2021. But the work was stopped in just two days due to communal conflict. The re-construction started this year, but faced violent resistance from Muslims this time.

The police managed to control the unruly crowd using mild force and apprehended over three dozen perpetrators involved in the incident, including sixteen women. Eight cops, a tehsildar and at least two civilians were hurt in the surprise attack. They were brought to the district hospital for medical attention. Subsequently, the administration and authorities arrived at the scene while a significant number of Bharatiya Janata Party and Sangh Parivar members also gathered at the location.

Police and administration officials reached at the spot with heavy force, upon receiving information about the violence. During the instance, Ganpat Singh Nodiyala from the Junjhar Sangharsh Samiti and others sustained wound. “The administration was present but stood by silently. The other community used women and children as shields for stone-pelting,” he charged.

Meanwhile, a stampede ensued as the police began to apprehend the stone pelters. A cop was also injured amidst this chaos. According to the police, a case has been filed and emergency reinforcements were sent out. Senior administration officials, such as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM )and tehsildar, were in charge of maintaining law and order while additional forces were dispatched to Basanpir to prevent future flare-ups.

The authorities also asked residents to avoid sharing offensive or controversial posts on social media that would escalate tensions. They also warned that nobody will be permitted to interfere with law and order.

Jaisalmer MLA and BJP leaders Chhotu Singh Bhati condemned the violence and stated, “The historical chhatris built in memory of the brave warriors of the princely era, Ramchandra Sodha and Hadud Paliwal, have been a symbol of our glorious history, sacrifice and cultural heritage. Unfortunately, they were demolished by antisocial elements in 2019.”

He added, “Now, when their reconstruction work started, some people with radical thinking attempted to obstruct the construction. Not only was an attempt made to stop the work by stone-pelting, but many people were injured in the attack. This act is condemnable, cowardly and hurts social harmony.”

He further mentioned that in a sensitive place like Jaisalmer, which is close to the nation’s borders, such acts are quite concerning. “We are taking this seriously not only from the law and order perspective but also from the point of view of national security. No harm will be allowed to come to our valour, history, and culture. We are all committed to protecting the identity of Jaisalmer,” the lawmaker declared.

The violence revived a long-running conflict that began in 2019 when similar elements destroyed the historic chhatris erected in commemoration of Hadud Paliwal and Jujhar Ramchandra Singh Sodha, warriors from Jaisalmer’s princely era. They were heroes of 1828 war fought between the princely states of Jaisalmer and Bikaner at Basanpir.

The reconstruction was recently permitted after consistent submissions by the Hindu community, through mediation by local police and elders, but the development triggered the extremists. The barrage of stones also damaged some cars and even broke their glasses.

Many people arrived at the location following the occurrence. They insisted on carrying on with the construction and work was resumed after 6 hours. Former MLA Sang Singh Bhati, along with BJP district president Dalpat Hingra and several others leaders were present there.

Madhya Pradesh: Altaf Multani raped a married woman after trapping her with a job offer, forced her to convert to Islam and marry him

OpIndia Staff
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Madhya Pradesh: Altaf Multani raped a married woman after trapping her with a job offer, forced her to convert to Islam and marry him

A disturbing incident of love jihad has recently come to light from the Agar Malwa district of Madhya Pradesh. As per reports, a woman has filed a complaint of rape against a Muslim man named Altaf Multani. The victim is a 25-year-old married woman. In her complaint, she shared that Multani raped her after giving her a job.

According to the victim, she had been going through financial difficulties around a year ago and she was looking for a job to make ends meet. That’s when Altaf Multani offered her a job. She accepted his offer.

However, one day, Multani took her to his under-construction office and raped her there. The victim said that when she resisted Multani, he threatened to fire her from the job and kill her children. Thereafter, Multani raped the victim on multiple occasions using the same threats. He took her to different places in Ujjain, Indore and Ghosala on the pretext of work and raped her.

The victim said that she had filed a complaint regarding the same earlier, but the accused pressured her and got a settlement done. She said that Multani forced her to convert to Islam and marry him.

Station House Officer Shashi Upadhyay confirmed that a case has been registered against the accused for rape and love jihad. Provisions of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 have been invoked. Police are looking for the accused, who is on the run.

Kapil Sibal’s bizzare arguments to allow illegals in the country, claims individuals not obligated to prove citizenship, but the government has to prove they are not citizens

OpIndia Staff
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Kapil Sibal’s bizzare arguments to allow illegals in the country, claims individuals not obligated to prove citizenship, but the government has to prove they are not citizens

During the hearing of a batch of petitions challenging the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) yesterday (10th July), Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal made some bizarre arguments before the Supreme Court.

Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia remarked during the hearing that the Election Commission is right in checking the citizenship of individuals because only citizens are allowed to vote, and that it is a mandate of the Commission to ensure that only qualified people vote. Responding to the judge’s remarks, Sibal made a strange submission claiming that the burden of proving citizenship does not lie on a person but instead lies on the Election Commission.

“…for that they have to see citizenship because only citizens can vote,” Justice Dhulia said. “The burden is not on me to prove citizenship. Before they remove me from the electoral roll, they have to show that they have some document in their possession that proves that I am not a citizen.” Sibal replied. Sibal backed his argument, claiming that a very small number of people in Bihar have certificates, implying that since people do not have the necessary documents, it is the duty of the Election Commission to prove which of them are citizens and which are not.

Kapil Sibal is completely wrong in the argument, as the burden of proof of citizenship lies with the individuals, not the state, as per Indian laws. As per Section 9 of the Foreigners Act, 1946, if an individual is suspected of being illegal immigrant, than it is the obligation of that person too prove otherwise. This means, the state has to provide some initial evidence before an individual is required to prove their citizenship. However, once the state provides evidence, the onus is on the individual to prove they are not a foreigner.

The section states that if any person is suspected of being illegal immigrant, than the onus of proving that the person is Indian citizen lie upon such a person.

Sibal’s illogical remarks attracted amusing reactions from people on social media. One X user sarcastically commented on Sibal’s argument,”As per Mr @KapilSibal, the Election Commission of India has to provide documentation to show that a Bangladeshi is not a citizen of India. What a crazy logic.”

Another X user took a dig at Sibal, saying, “I said the same thing to the officer checking documents at the exam centre, and he called the police officers and got me removed. @KapilSibal bro, I told an officer at the exam centre to prove that I am not the real candidate, and they threw me out”.

Terming the senior advocate’s submission as “lame”, an X user commented, “What a lame and stupid argument..Illegals infiltrated illegally and then made fake papers with the help of Sibal-type leaders’ political parties, and when Institutions/State start the identification process, these illegals manage to hire Sibal-type lawyers who charge millions..Who are the real Orchestrators and beneficiaries of this illegal infiltration business is clear now.”

Expressing shock over Sibal’s remarks, an X user explained how the advocate’s arguments were devoid of any sense. “The burden is on you to prove your identity at all times, go to a bank and get money out without your signature or your code. The bank is not interested in proving you are not Sibal, u have to prove you are Sibal. Is this man an SC lawyer? Have we fallen so low today?” the user said.

After hearing the arguments of the petitioners, which included TMC MP Mahua Moitra, former AAP co-founder Yogendra Yadav, RJD MP Manoj Jha, and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), a bench of Justices Dhulia and Joymala Bagchi yesterday refused to stay the SIR. The petitioners had argued that the identification process being followed by the ECI shifted the burden of proof onto citizens and that, considering the high rates of migration and poverty in the state, the requirement of documents specified by the ECI might disenfranchise millions of voters.

The bench directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to consider Aadhaar, voter ID cards, and ration cards as valid documents during the verification drive. The matter has been scheduled for hearing on 28th July.

No Bhagwant Mann, Namibia, Argentina, Trinidad & Tobago are not imaginary countries, PM Modi’s visit was in line with India’s national interests

Rukma Rathore
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No Bhagwant Mann, Namibia, Argentina, Trinidad & Tobago are not imaginary countries, PM Modi’s visit was in line with India’s national interests

A completely unnecessary political tussle transpired after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann ridiculed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to ‘small nations’. However, the inappropriate statement were promptly met with a vigorous backlash from the central government, as the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described Bhagwant Mann’s comments (without naming him) as “irresponsible and regrettable.”

On Thursday, July 10, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal condemned the utterances.

“We have seen some comments made by a high state authority about India’s relations with friendly countries from the Global South. These remarks are irresponsible and regrettable and do not behove the state authority. Government of India disassociates itself from such unwarranted comments that undermine India’s ties with friendly countries,” Jaiswal said after the development.

“PM Modi has gone somewhere. I think it is Ghana. He is going to be back and he is welcome. God knows which countries he keeps visiting, Magnesia, Galveaisa, Tarvesia. He does not stay in a country with 140 crore people. He travels to countries where the population is 10,000 and he is getting the ‘highest awards’ there. Here, 10,000 people gather to watch a JCB. What has he gotten himself into,” Punjab CM Mann mocked at a public event.

Notably, PM Modi returned from a historic two-continent journey during which he focused on forging closer ties with important countries in the Global South. He received the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana” in Ghana and the “Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago” in Trinidad and Tobago, where he spoke to their Parliament. He became the first Indian Prime Minister to land in the dual-island Caribbean nation in more than 20 years.

The discussions focused on vital minerals, energy and digital platforms during his first visit to Argentina as prime minister of India in 57 years. The nation  showed its intentions to implement India’s UPI system. He was awarded the “Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross” while he was in Brazil for the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) Summit. Namibia awarded PM Modi the “Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis.”

Mann tries to attack PM Modi but embarrasses himself

Now, one could contend that in a democracy, everyone, including a chief minister or an ordinary citizen, possesses the right to question the country’s Prime Minister and any other institution, leader or official. This assertion is entirely valid, however, there exists a glaring distinction between voicing genuine concerns and ridiculing merely for amusement and to provoke laughter.

Furthermore, it reflects poorly on the political maturity of a leader in a crucial state like Punjab. Mann, in a pitiful effort to mock PM Modi, inadvertently revealed his political shortsightedness and pauce understanding of diplomacy.

While the latter’s travels might be directed towards smaller nations, their impact on global dynamics is considerable, particularly regarding the Global South, which India has positioned itself to represent on the world stage. PM Modi is striving to build deep connections with these countries and the warm receptions and highest honors they extend to him are indicative of the success of his initiatives.

Notably, these tours are significant in countering the expanding web of Chinese influence and its aggressive policies, especially those directed at India and the prolonged conflict it has waged against the country for decades. China has been doing that with the assistance of its “all-weather friend” Pakistan, which borders Punjab.

Therefore, PM Modi’s visits are vital, not only for the objective of strategic engagement or to align those countries with New Delhi’s agenda but also to expose India’s adversaries, keep them in check, and secure the support of allies during significant times. Nevertheless, this fundamental aspect that holds utmost importance in a perpetually evolving and fragile world of diplomacy seems to be too intricate for AAP leader Mann to comprehend.

Outcome of PM Modi’s five-nation visit

Global attention was drawn to PM Modi’s visit to five countries: Ghana, Namibia, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina and Brazil. It wasn’t just about the awards or the appearance, though both are equally significant. Its goal was to reaffirm India’s position in the world as a strategic alternative to China, a responsible voice against terrorism and a dedicated development partner to the Global South.

These nations are united in their drive to balance China and hence they want to work with India, a country that allays fears of coercive diplomacy, debt traps and exploitation. The wave of historic state awards, strengthening strategic and commercial connections and mobilising support for New Delhi in the fight against terrorism are powered by this reputational dividend.

PM Modi’s most recent trip was to Namibia. He was the first Indian prime minister to visit there in almost 30 years. Notably, the eight cheetahs that were moved to India came from Namibia’s deserts. This time around, though, the focus was on diamonds, democracy and development.

Namibia is a stable democracy in Africa with abundant natural resources, including rare earth minerals, uranium, cobalt, lithium and marine diamonds, all of which are important for India. Its mining industry has already seen $800 million in investments from Indian businesses. The goal of the visit was to further increase the figure. Namibia could play a key role in India’s supply chain for vital minerals, assisting in the reduction of its dependency on China.

PM Modi’s visit to Ghana, the first by an Indian prime minister in thirty years, started this eight-day tour. Shared democratic principles, a desire for progress and a common concern of terrorism served as the foundation for this diplomatic embrace. Ghana, the biggest producer of gold in Africa, has become an integral part in India’s EV aspirations because of its lithium reserves. Agreements were reached in the fields of culture, defence and fintech.

India’s UPI is expected to be adopted by the country within six months. Additionally, security issues were also discussed. Ghana faces the threat of Islamic extremism since it borders the terrorism-torn country of Burkina Faso to the north and the rapidly unstable Sahel region. However, India has risen to the occasion by providing cybersecurity support, training and defence collaboration.

President John Mahama firmly supported India in return, denouncing the Pakistan-sponsored horrific assault in Pahalgam. Ghana is likewise in favour of India’s UNSC (United Nations Security Council) reform proposal.

It was history and emotion that dominated PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago which extended a very personal welcome to him. The country has a sizable Indian diaspora. He received the highest civilian honour there, which has never been conferred to a global head of state, including any American presidents or Commonwealth dignitaries. It was a striking gesture that underscored India’s special spot in the Caribbean nation’s heart.

The primary mission of the visit was to restore the common cultural and religious links between the two nations. Moreover, Trinidad became the first country in the Caribbean to implement UPI as both sides committed to enhancing their cultural and digital collaboration.

The timing of the visit to Argentina couldn’t have been better. India is making an important transition towards sustainable energy alogside technological self-sufficiency and South American nation is a major player in the global competition for essential minerals like copper and lithium. Argentina, with the second-largest shale gas and fourth-largest shale oil deposits in the world, also provides energy options that India is relentlessly exploring, particularly in light of the Middle East’s instability.

The two nations charted the way for more economic integration, particularly in the mining, energy and pharmaceutical industries. Indian producers of generic medications are likely going to gain traction and provide the county’s citizens with cheaper medicinal products. India has presented UPI as a sound financial model, a welcome addition to a country struggling with volatility and inflation. In fact, the visit signaled the start of a potentially fruitful partnership with a major South American power.

PM Modi made a full-fledged state visit to Brazil following his attendance at the BRICS Summit in Rio. The two nations set a lofty target: In five years, their bilateral commerce would double to $20 billion. With the seventh-largest GDP in the world, Brazil has the most diverse economy in South America. Brazil becomes a key partner for India as an essential provider of rare earths, crude oil, and other minerals with a significant production capability.

Together with India, it is a major player in Global South politics, balancing out superpowers like the United States and China. According to reports, Brazil is interested in Indian defensive equipment including the BrahMos missiles and Akash air defence as their performance during Operation Sindoor sparked the interest. Additionally, there was a definite consensus against terror that there should be no tolerance for terrorists and no double standards while dealing with the menace.

Critical minerals, digital public infrastructure led by UPI, defence cooperation and counter-terrorism, pharmaceuticals diaspora connect were among the consistent topics of PM Modi’s tour across continents. Meanwhile, the state honours demonstrated India’s growing status at the global stage as New Delhi introduced itself as a trustworthy alternative.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s diplomatic tour was certainly a remarkable success. Nonetheless, Mann’s absence of diplomatic insight failed to recognize it. AAP is not particularly recognized for its strong stance on foreign policy, instead, it is more associated with its conflicts over municipality issues, local or state polls, Delhi elections and slamming the center and crying vendatta politics for taking legal action against its senior members, including Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh and others, implicated in corruption cases.

The party also has a tendency to devolve sensitive and important issues to low level of political discourse in pursuit of brownie points. Mann’s remarks simply echoed the same and outlined how the politician in his juvenile bid to insult PM Modi, turned a significant matter into a joke, without any regard for the potential harm to the country’s relationships with other states, which have been built over years, even decades, through substantial effort.

More importantly, such comments could provide ammunition to India’s enemies, who are always proactive in undermining its interests. Nevertheless, Mann appeared to conveniently overlook such significant factors to poke fun at the prime minister.

Interestingly, the party whose veteran leader has such perspective over ties with allies aspires to govern the country and has repeatedly expressed its desire to install its national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, as India’s premier. If it were to materialize, the only nation that India would actively seek to form ties with appears to be Canada, the center of Khalistani elements, in addition to few others with a strong pro-separatist presence, considering the history and accusations directed at AAP.

Economist, who warned that there would be no Hindus left in Bangladesh if their exodus continued, arrested by Yunus regime: Details

OpIndia Staff
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Economist, who warned that there would be no Hindus left in Bangladesh if their exodus continued, arrested by Yunus regime: Details

The Muhammad Yunus regime has yet again targeted intellectuals living in Bangladesh. On Thursday (9th July) night, the police arrested renowned economist Abul Barkat from his residence in the Dhanmondi area of Dhaka.

The development was confirmed by Md Nasirul Islam, the Joint Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Detective Branch.

A case was registered against Abul Barkat in February this year by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of the Yunus regime. The renowned economist was made an accused in a case of embezzlement of funds worth Tk 297.34 crore.

ACC alleged that Abul Barkat, during his stint as the chairman of Janata Bank Ltd (2009-2014), granted loans to 22 companies of AnonTex Group through ‘forgery’ and ‘fraud’ in collusion with the ex-Governor of Bangladesh Bank.

It claimed that Barkat created false records to embezzle money, approved loans against non-existent buildings and factories and overvalued purchased land.

Abul Barkat is the former president of the Bangladesh Economic Association. He is an Economics Professor at the University of Dhaka.

The renowned economist has previously been bestowed with the ‘Order of the Rising Sun’ by the Japanese Government.

He has been a member of Transformation, Integration and Globalization Economic Research’s (TIGER) Scientific Research Advisory Board since 2021.

No Hindus will be left in Bangladesh after 30 years: Abul Barkat

In November 2016, Abul Barkat wrote a book titled, ‘Political economy of reforming agriculture-land-water bodies in Bangladesh.’

He warned that if the rate of exodus of the minority Hindu community continued, then there would not be any Hindus left after 30 years, i.e. 2046.

While speaking about the matter to Dhaka Tribune, “The rate of exodus over the past 49 years points to that direction.”

Abul Barkat highlighted that on average, 632 Hindus leave Bangladesh each day (~2,30,612 annually). He stated that 1.13 crore Hindus left Bangladesh between 1964 to 2013 due to discrimination and religious persecution.

He pointed that the exodus was at peak during the reign of military in Bangladesh, post independence in 1971.

During the book launch, it also came to light 60% of the Hindu population in Bangladesh were rendered landless by the government after their lands were classified as ‘enemy property’ before 1971 and ‘vested property’ after Independence.

Abul Barkat dedicated his book to his friends from childhood, who belonged to ‘Buno’ tribe, but have no trace now.

Muhammad Yunus tired to appease Islamic extremists

Bangladesh witnessed a drastic rise in Islamism after Yunus came to power. He first revoked the ban on the radical Islamist outfit ‘Jamaat-e-Islami.’

Thereafter, he released the leader of the radical outfit ‘Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT)’ Muhammad Jasimuddin Rahmani.

At the same time, Muhammad Yunus downplayed the targeted attacks on the Hindu community by violent Muslim mobs. He has gone on record from lamenting about attacks on Hindus to saying that the claims of atrocities are ‘exaggerated‘.

In that way, the controversial US asset was able to placate Islamic extremists. Given that Awami Legaue was against Islamism, the interim government first banned its student wing ‘Chhatra League,’ and then the parent party.

Under the watch of Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh saw a drastic rise in vigilante Muslim mobs, which unleashed violence under the pretext of protecting the tenets of Islam.

These mobs were largely unorganised and called themselves ‘Tawhidi Janata (meaning Revolutionary People).’ They came under the spotlight over acts of vandalism and harassment of people.

The Yunus regime introduced new textbooks for primary and secondary students, which falsely claimed that the first declaration of independence of Bangladesh was made by Ziaur Rehman (a favourite icon of Muslim hardliners in Bangladesh).

The interim government also appointed a Hizb ut-Tahrir terrorist named Mohammad Azaz as the administrator for the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC).

The situation had become so grim that Bangladeshi ambassador to Morocco Mohammad Harun Al Rashid was forced to slam the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in a scathing Facebook post in March this year.

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