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Internal rift widens in TMC after Kolkata rape case, Kalyan Banerjee drags Mohua Moitra’s recent marriage after she called him misogynist, calls her ‘most anti-woman’

OpIndia Staff
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Internal rift widens in TMC after Kolkata rape case, Kalyan Banerjee drags Mohua Moitra’s recent marriage after she called him misogynist, calls her ‘most anti-woman’

The recent rape case at South Kolkata Law College on Wednesday, 25th June, not only triggered public outrage, but also revealing deep cracks within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has occurred. A first-year law student was raped by Monojit Mishra, a TMC student wing leader, in the guard room of the college.

As events in the case went on, rather than stand together, top TMC leaders turned against themselves, with provocative statements, social media cold-shoulders, and a long-standing rancour breaking out. The incident that ought to have led to soul-searching has now led the party into a new bout of internal clashes, months before the 2026 West Bengal Assembly polls.

TMC student leader accused of heinous crime

The main accused, Monojit Mishra, is not only any ordinary student — he is a well-known leader of the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP), TMC’s student wing, and has alleged connections with a few top party leaders, including ministers Firhad Hakim and Abhishek Banerjee. The survivor, in her complaint, has stated she was raped within the guard room after being induced by the accused and threatened using videos.

Three people were also arrested in the case, two of whom are present students and the security guard at the college. The medical report had proved the assault. The political involvement of a prominent figure has attracted severe criticism from the opposition parties and the public.

Controversial remarks by senior TMC leaders

In the first reaction after the incident, top leaders Kalyan Banerjee (TMC MP from Sreerampur) and Madan Mitra (MLA) had made statements that seemed to downplay the crime. Banerjee asked, “What can be done if a friend rapes his friend. Will the police be in schools? This was done by students to another student. Who will protect her (victim)?”

Mitra further added on Saturday, 28th June, “Who does all this criminality and molestation? Some men do it. So, who should women fight against? Women should fight against these perverted men.” Their comments drew immense backlash on social media, with many accusing the leaders of victim-blaming and normalising sexual violence.

TMC forced to distance itself from party veterans

In the face of growing criticism, TMC’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle shared a statement distancing the party from Banerjee and Mitra’s remarks. It stated:

“The observations of MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra regarding the barbaric crime at South Calcutta Law College have been made in their official capacities. The party strongly condemns and completely distances itself from their observations. These are not the views of the party in any way at all.”

TMC reaffirmed its support for justice for the survivor and announced “zero tolerance” for atrocities against women. But the harm was done.

Mahua Moitra hits back, rekindles old rivalry

TMC MP Mahua Moitra responded promptly, targeting the senior leadership of her party for their insensitive comments. Posting her party’s dissociation message, she said, “Misogyny in India crosses party lines. What’s distinct about @AITCofficial is that we deplore these repulsive remarks regardless of who says them.”

Her reply rekindled her old feud with Kalyan Banerjee. A few months back, leaked WhatsApp conversations of a TMC group showed serious internal fissures. Banerjee, at the time speaking to the media, had stated, “Only because a woman is beautiful and can speak fluent English, it doesn’t mean that she can insult men.” He also called Moitra and other female MPs “savages,” implying they were besmirching the party’s reputation.

Kalyan Banerjee fires back at TMC leadership, Mahua

After the official statement of the party, Kalyan Banerjee defended his statement on social media and fired back at the leadership. Shared a post on X.

He went on to accuse certain leaders who emerged within the party post-2011 of being themselves under scrutiny for the same offences. Naming none, Banerjee alluded to a more entrenched decay within the party and preferred to distance himself from the leaders who were “encouraging or shielding criminals.”

He also made personal attack on Mahua Moitra over her recent marriage with Pinaki Misra. He said,  “Mahua has come back to India after her honeymoon and started fighting with me! She accuses me of being anti-woman. What is she? She has broken up a 40-year marriage and married a guy who is 65 years old. Did she not hurt the lady?”.

Kalyan Banerjee further said, “An MP who was expelled from parliament for breach of ethics is preaching me! She is the most anti-woman. She only knows how to secure her future and how to make money.”

He further claimed that he was stopped from campaigning in recently concluded Kaliganj bye-elections as Mahua Moitra had asked MLAs to prevent him from entering the constituency. He said, “I was told if I go for the campaign she will make sure our candidate does not win. Hence I told party chairperson that winning is more important.”

Not the first public spat within TMC

This is the third time that internal rifts have spilt into the open. A few months back, WhatsApp messages between top party leaders had gone viral, with MPs such as Kalyan Banerjee and Mahua Moitra hurling abuses at each other. The feud had brought out generational and ideological faultlines in the party.

In December 2023, “missing” posters announcing Abhishek Banerjee had been fixed in sections of Kolkata — an action supposedly attributed to factional battles between Kunal Ghosh and veterans leader Sougata Roy. The incidents mirror the continuing infighting that has tormented the Trinamool Congress in the past few years.

Increasing public anger and political consequences

The gang-rape case has raged like a firestorm in West Bengal and elsewhere. It is criticised as showing how unsafe it is for women in institutions of education and how free from accountability politically influential people feel. That the student wing leader of a party is involved has also further inflamed public ire.

Rather than coalescing behind the survivor and demanding accountability, the TMC leaders are kept busy dodging blame and settling intra-party scores. The credibility of the party is being undermined, particularly with regard to women’s security and party discipline.

Infighting ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections

The timing of the scandal couldn’t be worse for TMC. With the approach of the 2026 West Bengal Vidhan Sabha elections, the party is already battling a robust challenge from the BJP, which has been making political capital on law and order issues. The rape case — against one of TMC’s student leaders — has provided the opposition with new ammunition.

The episode has not only sent alarm bells ringing for women’s safety under Mamata Banerjee’s rule but also exposed the ugly internal conflict that has been weakening the party’s solidarity. Though Mamata Banerjee has so far not made a public statement on the issue, the silence is being read by many as insensitivity.

The South Kolkata Law College gang-rape case has turned into a crime report — it has become a political hot issue, revealing TMC’s internal divisions, leadership vacuum, and inability to keep party cadres in check. The exchange of words between top brass leaders, the slowness of the party to react, and Mahua Moitra’s biting criticism reflect a party in disarray.

Those who imposed emergency murdered the constitution: Here are the highlights from the 123rd episode of PM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat

OpIndia Staff
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Those who imposed emergency murdered the constitution: Here are the highlights from the 123rd episode of PM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat

In the 123rd episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ telecast today (29th June), Prime Minister Modi recalled the period of national emergency, which was imposed by former PM Indira Gandhi in 1975. During his address, PM Modi played the audio clips of Indian politicians who witnessed the period of emergency and fought against it, including former Prime Ministers Morarji Desai and Atal Bihari Vajpayee and freedom fighter and politician Babu Jagjivan Ram, to provide a picture of the period of emergency.

PM Modi used his Mann Ki Baat address to remind people how the Indian Constitution and democracy were sabotaged by the then Congress regime led by Indira Gandhi to serve her political interests. He declared June 25th, 2025, the 50th anniversary of emergency, as ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’. “Just a few days ago, the imposition of Emergency on the country completed its 50 years. We countrymen have observed the ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’. We should always remember all those people who fought the Emergency with fortitude. This inspires us to remain constantly vigilant to keep our Constitution strong and enduring,” PM Modi said.

PM Modi pointed out how attempts were made by Indira Gandhi to enslave the judiciary and how people who opposed the emergency were jailed and tortured. “Those who imposed Emergency not only murdered our constitution but also had the intention to keep the judiciary as their slave. During this period, people were tormented on a large scale. There are many such examples of this, which can never be forgotten. George Fernandez Sahib was tied in chains,” he added.

The Prime Minister highlighted how thousands of people were subjected to inhumane atrocities under the draconian Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) and yet they did not break down and finally the emergency was lifted because of their unending efforts. “Many people were subjected to severe torture. Under MISA, anyone could be summarily arrested. Students too were harassed. Freedom of expression was also stifled. Thousands of people who were arrested during that period were subjected to such inhumane atrocities. But it is the strength of the people of India… they did not bow down, did not break down and did not accept any compromise with democracy. Finally, the people at large won – the Emergency was lifted and those who imposed the Emergency were defeated,” PM Modi stated.

Other topics addressed by PM Modi in his address

PM Modi began his Mann Ki Baat address by talking about the International Yoga Day which was celebrated globally. He expressed pleasure over the enthusiasm with which lakhs of people, including, studens, adivasis, and soldiers performed yoga in different parts of the country. PM Modi noted how the number of people adopting yoga in their daily lives has grown in the last 10 years since June 21 came to be celebrated as the International Yoga Day.

He also mentioned about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which restarted this year after a gap of 5 years, and the upcoming Amarnath Yatra scheduled to commnece on 3rd July. Describing the grandeur of the ongoing Jagannath Yatra, PM Modi explained how the yatra is celebrated across the states reflecting the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat-Shrestha Bharat’. 

PM Modi also talked about the ongoing football cup, the Bodoland CEM Cup, in the Bodoland territory of Assam and praised the local youth for leaving a mark through football and catapulting Bodoland to the national stage. He also spoke about the Eri Silk of Meghalaya, which recently received the GI tag, and ‘Women Led Development’ in Telangana where women who used work labourers in fields are being trained to make millet biscuits, and ‘Giri Sanitary Pads’. He praised the achievements of women in Kalaburgi, Karnataka, who formed a cooperative society and made the local jowar roti a brand.

He appreciated the devotion expressed by people of Vietnam who flocked to see the holy relics of Bhagwan Buddha, discovered at Nagarjunakonda of Palnadu district in Andhra Pradesh, which were taken to Vietnam from India last month. PM Modi also praised the efforts of Ramesh Kharmale, a resident Pune, who along with his family is engaged in the work of environment conservation by digging small ponds and trenches and planting trees. He commended the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation for launching ‘Mission for Million Trees’ campaign which aims to plant lakhs of trees. PM Modi also hailed the people of Patoda Gram Panchayat in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district, Maharashtra, which earned the badge of ‘Carbon Neutral village Panchayat’ by developeing a garbage collection and diposal system.

And lastly, PM Modi spoke about his conversation with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s first astronaut to journey to space in over four decades, who is currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as a member of the Axiom-4 mission.

Puri Jagannath Ratha Yatra: Read how over 1500 RSS Swayamsevaks provided various services to the devotees

OpIndia Staff
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Puri Jagannath Ratha Yatra: Read how over 1500 RSS Swayamsevaks provided various services to the devotees

Demonstrating a significant commitment to public service, over 1,560 Swayamsevaks (volunteers) from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) played a pivotal role in organising the renowned Ratha Yatra festival in Puri. Working in close coordination with the Utkal Bipanna Sahayata Samiti, the volunteers executed nine structured humanitarian service activities, earning widespread appreciation.

The service operations were formally inaugurated at 8:30 AM on Ratha Yatra day in front of the Samiti’s primary medical centre near Bholanath School. Senior RSS leaders, including Jagadish Prasad Khadanga (Sah-Kshetra Pracharak), Vidyut Mukherjee (Kshetra Sampark Pramukh), VHP Odisha President Prafulla Kumar Mishra, and Samiti President Akshay Kumar Bit, marked the commencement by lighting the ceremonial lamp.

Rudranarayan Mahapatra, the Samiti’s Ratha Yatra Seva Sanyojak, outlined the comprehensive emergency response plan. He highlighted the challenges posed by immense crowds and intense heat, often leading to devotees fainting or sustaining injuries, necessitating robust arrangements.

Key services deployed

  1. Ambulance Corridor Management: A dedicated human chain of 884 Swayamsevaks created and maintained a vital corridor from the Ratha site to Medical Chhak, enabling emergency vehicle access.
  2. Ambulance Assistance: 20 volunteers operated in shifts across two ambulances for patient transport.
  3. Stretcher Services: 80 Swayamsevaks provided stretcher support in two shifts.
  4. Traffic Control: 100 volunteers managed crowd flow and traffic.
  5. Drinking Water Distribution: 25 volunteers distributed water at five key locations in shifts.
  6. Water Sprinking: 40 volunteers used ten sprayers to cool crowds.
  7. Hospital Facilitation: Volunteers ensured seamless coordination upon patient arrival at hospitals.
  8. Cleanliness Drive: Approximately 200 Swayamsevaks cleaned the Bada Danda (Grand Road).
  9. Primary Medical Assistance: A team of five doctors, two pharmacists, and four assistants provided immediate care at medical centres manned by 200 volunteers.

Senior RSS leaders, including Prant Pracharak Bipin Prasad Nanda, Saha-Prant Pracharak Asit Kumar Sahu, and Prant Seva Pramukh Shantanu Majhi, supervised the massive coordinated effort. On Ratha Yatra day alone, the primary medical camps treated 750 devotees, with services continuing until the Bahuda Yatra.

Affiliated organisations contribute

Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP): ABVP volunteers were crucial in crowd management, forming human chains for ambulances, and escorting ailing devotees. Their medical wing, ‘Medivision’, operated ambulances and health camps staffed by doctors providing primary treatment and medicines. Odisha Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling inaugurated the ABVP camp, commending their healthcare efforts. ABVP also ran a “Plastic-Free Ratha Yatra” campaign and participated in cleanliness drives.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHS) & Hindu Jagran Munch: These organisations set up food distribution stalls (Bhandaras) and engaged in various service activities.

The meticulously planned and executed voluntary services by the RSS and associated Sangh Parivar organisations have been widely credited with helping manage the immense challenges of the festival. ensuring a safer and more manageable experience for the vast number of pilgrims attending this grand religious celebration. Their disciplined, behind-the-scenes work has drawn significant praise from devotees and the public alike.

Chhattisgarh: Three women arrested for attempt to convert students outside a school in Raipur, insulted Hindu Gods and claimed Christianity will make them smarter

OpIndia Staff
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Chhattisgarh: Three women arrested for attempt to convert students outside a school in Raipur, insulted Hindu Gods and claimed Christianity will make them smarter

A case of forced conversion into Christianity has come to light in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. An attempt was being made to change the religion of children outside Madhav Rao Sapre school. Three women have been arrested in this case. The women were trying to deceive the children outside the school. Allegedly, the three women were asking children to go to church outside the school after the final bell and convert to Christianity.

As per the allegations, after the final bell at the school, the women started interacting with the students and gave them negative information about Hindu deities. Along with this, they started insulting Hindu gods and goddesses in front of students. As soon as the incident was reported, people from the Hindu organisation reached the spot and lodged a complaint with the police station. The police have registered a case against the three women and arrested them.

The children whom the women have spoken to are studying in 9th and 10th classes. The students said that after the final bell, when the students came out of the school, three women got out of an auto and came to them.

The women asked the students if they believe in Christianity, do they go to church or not. The children said that they do not go to church, they are Hindus. Then the women asked them to convert to Christianity. The students said that the women were saying that if they go to church, they will become smart in studies. All diseases will also be cured. They added that if they tell this to their family members, their diseases will also be cured.

However, when the children refused, the women started chasing them. The students then informed a local Hindu group about the matter, after which a complaint was filed with the police. The students said that those women had given their names as Mamta Chauhan, Namrata Chauhan and Vibha Masih.

Giving information about the case, Kotwali police station CSP Kesari Nandan Naik said that three women have been arrested. Hindu organisations had filed a complaint against the women saying that they were pressing the students to change their religion. The police is currently investigating the matter and further action will be taken.

Uttar Pradesh: Muzaffarnagar police arrest Aryan for morphing and circulating obscene photos of Hindu girls on Instagram; Read FIR details

OpIndia Staff
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Uttar Pradesh: Muzaffarnagar police arrest Aryan for morphing and circulating obscene photos of Hindu girls on Instagram; Read FIR details

Muzaffarnagar police have arrested a 19-year-old youth identified as Aryan for allegedly morphing and circulating obscene images of a young Hindu woman and her sister on social media using a fake Instagram ID. The complaint in the matter was registered on 22nd June at Civil Lines Police Station. Following the complaint, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sanjay Verma formed a special team to investigate the matter under the supervision of SP (City), CO (City) and SHO Ashutosh Kumar Singh.

Content of the FIR

OpIndia accessed copy of the FIR. It was registered under Section 319(2) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and 67A of the IT Act on the complaint of the victim. In the complaint, the victim informed police that one of her friends told her about her obscene photo being circulated on the social media platform Instagram. When the victim checked the fake ID on Instagram that posted the obscene photograph, she found that it contained obscene photographs of her sister as well.

The victim asserted that the person behind the handle was trying to defame them in society. The victim further said she suspects someone has hacked her account. “My family and I are extremely disturbed by this,” she added while requesting police to take immediate action.

Accused Aryan arrested

During the investigation, police tracked the ID on Instagram and identified the culprit as Aryan, son of Azam Sultan. He is a resident of Rampuri that falls under Kotwali Nagar police station. During questioning, Aryan admitted to having morphed the images and uploaded the objectionable content on the social media platform Instagram using a fake ID. He was produced in court and sent to judicial custody.

Attempt to censor reporting of ‘love jihad’ in media? Madhya Pradesh High Court rejects petition of Maruf Ahmad Khan

OpIndia Staff
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Attempt to censor reporting of ‘love jihad’ in media? Madhya Pradesh High Court rejects petition of Maruf Ahmad Khan

Madhya Pradesh High Court dismissed a petition seeking ban on the use of the term ‘Love Jihad’ by newspapers and news channels on 19th June this year.

The petition was filed by one Maruf Ahamd Khan who submitted that the use of the term Love Jihad by media outlets and newspapers hurts the religious sentiments of the Muslim community.

The petition was filed under Article 226 of the Constitution in the form of a writ in the nature of mandamus requesting the court to direct concerned authorities to take action against the publication of “fake” and “misleading” news relating to the Muslim community.

The petitioner alleged that such publication resulted in his sentiments being hurt and the exploitation of the Muslim community.

However, the petition was dismissed by the High Court on the ground that the relief prayed by the petitioner cannot be claimed in the nature of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL).

“In view of the nature of relief which has been claimed in the writ petition coupled with the averments made in the complaint it is clear that the petition is in the nature of a Public Interest Litigation for which mandamus cannot be issued. Under these circumstances, this Court refrains from entertaining the writ petition,” Justice Vishal Mishra noted in the dismissal order.

MPDownload

The High Court directed the petitioner to use alternative remedies of approaching the concerned Magistrate under section 156(3), CrPC/175 BNSS or filing a private complaint under section 200, CrPC/223 BNSS.

Bangladesh: BNP leader Fazor Ali rapes Hindu woman at knifepoint in Cumilla, disturbing video of the incident surfaces online. Here is what we know so far

OpIndia Staff
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Bangladesh: BNP leader Fazor Ali rapes Hindu woman at knifepoint in Cumilla, disturbing video of the incident surfaces online. Here is what we know so far

On Thursday (26th June), a prominent leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) named Fazor Ali forcibly broke into the house of a Hindu woman and then raped her at knifepoint.

The incident occurred in Ramchandrapur Panchkitta village in Muradnagar upazila in the Cumilla district of the country. According to reports, the victim is 21 years old and the mother of 2 children.

Her husband works and lives in Dubai. The victim had been residing in her paternal house for about 2 weeks. Fazor Ali had been stalking her from the time she had been staying there.

On Thursday (26th June), when the family members of the victim went to a local fair, the BNP leader seized the opportunity to break into his house and rape her at knifepoint.

When the victim screamed for help, locals rushed to the crime scene and detained Fazor Ali. But he managed to flee.

The victim was taken to the Cumilla Medical College Hospital for medical examination. A disturbing video of the incident has now gone viral on social media. The victim filed a complaint with the Muradnagar police on Friday (27th June).

5 arrested including BNP leader Fazor Ali

A case was registered under the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act of 2000. The police first arrested 4 people for sharing the explicit video of the victim on social media.

On Sunday (29th June), the cops apprehended Fazor Ali and 4 other accused in connection to the rape of the 21-year-old Hindu woman. In the meantime, legal action is being taken against all 5 men.

Fazor Ali, the local influential BNP leader, is a resident of Bahechar (Purbo Para) village in Muradnagar.

Atrocities on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh are continuing unabated under the interim government, headed by ‘Chief Advisor’ Muhammad Yunus.

Trinamool Congress distances itself from comments of Kalyan Banerjee and Madan Mitra on Law College rape case, says it strongly condemns the same

OpIndia Staff
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Trinamool Congress distances itself from comments of Kalyan Banerjee and Madan Mitra on Law College rape case, says it strongly condemns the same

Trinamool Congress on Friday evening issued an official statement distancing itself from controversial remarks made by MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra regarding the recent rape case at South Calcutta Law College. The statement, posted on X, claimed that the comments were made in the personal capacities of the two leaders and do not reflect the party’s stance.

The rape incident occurred on June 25, 2025, involving a 24-year-old female law student at South Calcutta Law College in Kolkata’s Kasba area. Three individuals, including the alleged main accused Manojit Mishra, a Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad leader, have been arrested. The case has sparked widespread outrage and renewed debates on women’s safety in educational institutions, especially following the RG Kar Medical College incident earlier this year.

Amid these, the two TMC leaders made highly objectionable comments over the incident. Kalyan Banerjee, a TMC MP, faced backlash for his statement saying that the woman was raped by her friends. He had said, “What can be done if a friend rapes his friend. Will the police be in schools? This was done by students to another student. Who will protect her (victim)?”

The Sreerampur MP further said, “Who does all this criminality and molestation? Some men do it. So, who should women fight against? Women should fight against these perverted men.” These comments were perceived as trivializing the crime.

TMC MLA Madan Mitra made a shocking remark blaming the woman for the crime against her. He suggested that the victim should not have visited the college alone, implying her actions contributed to the assault. Mitra said, ““If that girl had not gone there, this wouldn’t have happened. If she had informed someone before going or had taken a couple of friends with her, then this wouldn’t have happened”.

He further added, “The one who committed this dirty deed took advantage of the situation.”

In response to large scale outrage on these comments, TMC was forced to issue the statement distancing it from the comments. The party stated, “The remarks made by MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra concerning the heinous crime at South Calcutta Law College were made in their personal capacities. The party unequivocally disassociates itself from their statements and strongly condemns the same. These views do not reflect the position of the party in any manner whatsoever.”

It further added, “The remarks made by MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra concerning the heinous crime at South Calcutta Law College were made in their personal capacities. The party unequivocally disassociates itself from their statements and strongly condemns the same. These views do not reflect the position of the party in any manner whatsoever.”

‘Sky is never the limit’: 5 big moments from PM Modi’s interaction with Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla aboard the ISS

OpIndia Staff
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‘Sky is never the limit’: 5 big moments from PM Modi’s interaction with Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla aboard the ISS

In a proud moment for the nation, PM Modi had an interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s first astronaut to journey to space in over four decades. Shukla, currently stationed aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as a member of the Axiom-4 mission, represents a significant milestone for India’s space ambitions and symbolizes the maturity of India’s scientific progress.

Launched on June 25 aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, Shukla’s mission is not only a personal achievement but also the result of years of collaboration between ISRO and NASA, fulfilling a promise made during PM Modi’s 2019 visit to the United States.

The conversation between PM Modi and Shukla was filled with pride, inspiration, and even lighthearted moments. Here are the top five highlights from their historic interaction:

1. ‘You are farthest from India, but closest to Indians’ hearts’: PM Modi to Shukla

Prime Minister Modi opened the interaction by expressing the nation’s collective pride in Shukla’s achievement. “You are farthest from India, but closest to Indians’ hearts,” Modi remarked, underlining the emotional connection shared by every Indian as they watched one of their own soar beyond the Earth.

Shukla, the first Indian to reach the ISS, carries with him the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians, a fact PM Modi did not miss highlighting.

2. A ‘Shubh-Aarambh’ for India’s youth

In his characteristic oratorical style, PM Modi cleverly linked Shukla’s name to the larger narrative of India’s space ambitions. Pointing out that ‘Shubh’ means auspicious, Modi termed this historic mission a shubh-aarambh — an auspicious beginning — for India’s youth and the nation’s journey towards becoming a leader in space exploration.

3. Gajar Ka Halwa: A sweet moment of laughter

In an enjoyable moment of cultural pride, PM Modi inquired whether Shukla had shared the famous gajar ka halwa (carrot dessert) he carried to the ISS with fellow astronauts. Laughing, Shukla confirmed that not only did they enjoy the halwa, but other Indian sweets were part of the space menu too, proving that Indians have a knack for a sweet tooth and wherever they go, their traditions follow.

4. ‘India looks bigger from space’: Shubhanshu Shukla

When asked what India looked like from space, Shukla’s response was both scientific and symbolic. “India looks grand and bigger from space than it does on the map,” he said, highlighting the awe-inspiring perspective astronauts experience when they view Earth from orbit, a view that evokes pride and humility in equal measure.

5. ‘Sky is Never the Limit, not for you, Not for me, not for India’: Shukla

Shukla concluded with an inspirational message aimed at India’s youth. Emphasizing the role of mindfulness and staying calm under pressure, the astronaut said, “If you try and build your future properly, the nation’s future will also be good.” His most powerful statement, however, resonated across generations: “Sky is never the limit; not for you, not for me, and certainly not for India.”

Axiom-4: Science, collaboration, and India’s space legacy

The Axiom-4 mission marks a significant step for India’s space diplomacy and scientific advancement. The mission’s Dragon spacecraft successfully docked with the ISS on June 27, beginning a two-week period of experiments, technology demonstrations, and educational activities.

Shukla will lead seven of the 60 experiments planned aboard the ISS, representing India’s growing contributions to global space research. This mission also reflects the deepening collaboration between NASA and ISRO — a commitment first announced by PM Modi and then-US President Donald Trump.

In his first message from the ISS, Shukla expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “The view surpassed expectations… but working together to advance science and research will be the most amazing part of these two weeks.”

As India watches this historic mission unfold in awe and with a sense of pride, one thing is clear: for a new generation of Indians, the sky is no longer the limit.

Iran deports over 88,000 undocumented Afghan migrants in a single week, govt cancels all lease agreements with Afghan refugees and bans giving them shelter

OpIndia Staff
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Iran deports over 88,000 undocumented Afghan migrants in a single week, govt cancels all lease agreements with Afghan refugees and bans giving them shelter

More than 88,000 undocumented Afghan migrants were deported from Iran in a single week, Khaama Press reported, citing International Organisation for Migration (IOM), raising alarm over urgent humanitarian and funding needs,

Between June 18 and June 26, a total of 88,308 undocumented Afghan nationals were forcibly returned from Iran to Afghanistan, according to the IOM’s June 28 update. The organisation stated that only 11 per cent of these returnees received any humanitarian assistance due to critical resource limitations, calling for urgent international funding to meet the basic needs of the most vulnerable.

The report further highlighted that 55 per cent of the returnees during this period were forcibly deported, and 64 per cent were travelling as families–underscoring the disproportionate impact on women and children. This figure marked a steep rise from the previous week, when 32,844 individuals were returned between June 10 and June 17.

Earlier data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) showed that over 71,000 migrants were returned from both Iran and Pakistan between June 1 and June 15, underscoring the scale and continuity of expulsions. Both agencies warned of the dire health and protection challenges that await returnees in overcrowded and under-resourced border areas, Khaama Press reported.

In Iran, the crackdown on undocumented Afghan nationals has intensified. Authorities have issued new orders invalidating all lease agreements with Afghan refugees and warning landlords against offering them shelter. According to Khaama Press, police have reportedly detained Afghan migrants across several provinces, with arrests increasing notably after the recent 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has also resumed strict enforcement against Afghan refugees, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Identity checks, detentions, and deportations have increased, often targeting families with little to no warning or legal recourse. Human rights groups have expressed concern over the ongoing mass arrests and forced returns.

Both IOM and WHO have appealed for immediate international support to address the escalating refugee crisis. With deportations surging and border services overstretched, Afghan returnees face rising threats of homelessness, poverty, and deteriorating health conditions, Khaama Press reported.

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

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