Parroting Pakistan’s narrative, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy got himself embroiled in a controversy by questioning PM Modi as to how many Rafale fighter jets were shot down by Pakistan during the recent military escalations between the two countries. Reddy made the remarks during ‘Jai Hind’ rally in Hyderabad on Thursday (29th MAY).
“The soldiers of this (Secunderabad ) Cantonment participated in the war. The war planes being manufactured in Telangana upheld respect for our country. Rafale aircraft brought by Narendra Modi were shot down by Pakistan. There is no discussion on how many Rafales were shot down. Narendra Modi should answer how many Rafale aircraft were shot down by Pakistan during the recent war. You give us the account,” said Reddy.
Reddy attacked the Modi government, for not convening an all-party meeting before agreeing to a ceasefire with Pakistan. “After four days of war, we do not know who threatened whom and who succumbed to whom. All of a sudden, US President Donald Trump came out and said he threatened India and stopped the war,” the CM said. He accused the Modi government of failing to use the opportunity to take control PoK and separating Balochistan from Pakistan.
After suffering heavy losses as a result of India’s military action under Operation Sindoor, Pakistan tried saving its face by falsely claiming to have shot down three Indian Rafale jets. However, the Islamic state could not provide any evidence to back its claim, which was amplified by Chinese media.
BJP hits back at Reddy, slams Congress
BJP hit back at Reddy for accusing him of echoing Pakistan’s narrative and undermining the Indian armed forces. Addressing the media at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi on Friday (30th May), BJP MP Sambit Patra called out Congress leaders Reddy, Jairam Ramesh and Rahul Gandhi for raising doubts on the armed forces instead of asking how many Pakistani air bases were destroyed by India. “Rahul Gandhi, Jairam Ramesh, and Revanth Reddy are asking how many Rafales were shot down. ‘Yeh jo Pakistan ke Babbar hain, woh Hindustan ke Gabbar hain’. Rahul Gandhi did not ask how many Pakistani airbases were destroyed, how many terrorists were killed; rather, he only asked how many Indian planes were shot down,” said Patra.
#WATCH | Delhi: BJP MP Sambit Patra says, "Rahul Gandhi, Jairam Ramesh, Revanth Reddy are asking how many Rafales were shot down. 'Yeh jo Pakistan ke Babbar hain, woh Hindustan ke Gabbar hain'. Rahul Gandhi did not ask how many Pakistani airbases were destroyed, how many… pic.twitter.com/X43SVhZ9S5
Telangana BJP President G Kishan Reddy, accused the Congress party of playing dirty politics and demoralising the armed forces. “Congress – From their leader Rahul Gandhi to their CM Revanth Reddy are demeaning our brave armed forces day in and day out. Not the first time Congress and its leaders are resorting to cheap and dirty politics, not the first time they have questioned and doubted the surgical strikes, not the first time they are demoralizing our armed forces, not the first time they are speaking the enemy language. Who is the Congress loyal to Bharat or?” the Union Minister for Coal and Mines wrote on X.
Congress – From their leader Rahul Gandhi to their CM Revanth Reddy are demeaning our brave armed forces day in and day out.
Not the first time Congress and its leaders are resorting to cheap and dirty politics, not the first time they have questioned and doubted the surgical…
While Congress leaders like Shashi Tharoor, Manish Tiwari, Salman Khurshid are representing India abroad as part of the multi-party delegations, their colleagues back home are undoing their good work.
Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on 27th May declared that Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was the founder of HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited). Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP and Mysore (Mysuru) royal descendant Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, however, countered this claim, both in public forums and online. He stated that India’s first prime minister had no involvement in the establishment of HAL and emphasized that the credit should rightfully go to industrialist Walchand Hirachand and the Kingdom of Mysore.
“The Deputy Chief Minister said it is Nehru’s contribution. We need to clarify that. In 1940, Walchand Hirachand approached many kings with the idea of an aircraft development system. Only the King of Mysore agreed. The Government of Karnataka, back then the Government of Mysore, gave around 700 acres of land. The initial investment came from the Government of Mysore. The king decided not to give the share to anyone else.” he pointed out on 28th May and highlighted that the roots of HAL were very local.
“This is a system that has been developed by the Kannadigas, under Kannadiga leadership. We also need to remind the DyCM. He has a compulsion to attribute everything to a dynasty and high command, but we need to tell this clearly to him,” Yaduveer reiterated. He then stressed, “HAL should be kept in Karnataka itself. Even if other defence centres come up, it must remain here. This is what we are telling the Chief Minister as well.” He also posted a thorough 18-part thread detailing the real origins of HAL.
Wadiyar kings of Mysore
The Wadiyars or Wodeyars who are believed to be the descendants of Lord Krishna ruled over the Mysore kingdom from 1399 to 1947. They possessed a rich heritage that included splendid palaces, exquisite artwork and traditional musical instruments. Their reign extended over five centuries, during which they significantly influenced social and cultural aspects.
They fostered public participation and engagement, as their welfare model was crafted with the populace at its heart. Despite the loss of their titles, the Wodeyars remain a powerful influence among the Kannadigas, celebrated for their pro-people policies and prompt actions in times of crisis. However, their remarkable contributions to the fields of Science & Technology will forever be regarded as a pinnacle achievement of their administration.
The Mysore kingdom started as a small vassal of the Vijayanagara Empire, but it expanded under the influence of successive kings. Chikka Devaraja, the fourteenth king, brought the dynasty to its peak by reforming the administration and launching a new taxation system. The kingdom witnessed a golden era when Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV succeeded to the throne.
The philosopher-king, who was a supporter of the fine arts, laid the groundwork for educational systems and dedicated efforts to reduce poverty, rebuild rural communities, improve public health, promote industry and stimulate economic growth. In 1902, Mysore was the first Indian state to harness hydroelectric power in Asia and it was also the first Asian city to install street lights in 1905.
He oversaw the opening of educational institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Mysore. Victoria Hospital, Cheluvamba Hospital and Minto Eye Hospital were started along with the construction of the Krishna Raja Sagara dam. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi referred to his kingdom as “Ramrajya” and praised him as a “Rajrishi.” Mysore was referred to as “the best-administered state in the world” by Lord John Sankey who was the Lord Chancellor of Great Britain and a human rights activist.
How HAL was founded
World War II was rocking the globe in 1940. India was at a pivotal moment. Sri Jayachamaraja Wadiyar replaced his uncle as King of Mysore on 8th September 1940. He was only 21 when he was presented with a daring suggestion that would alter India’s course. William Douglas Pawley, an American industrialist who had been constructing airplanes in China required a new base. In 1933, he created the Central Aircraft Manufacturing Company (CAMCO) to assemble Hawk 75 and CW-21 fighter aircraft for China’s Nationalist government.
Chinese aviation was mostly dependent on CAMCO but Japanese raids compelled Pawley to relocate. On a Pan Am Clipper flight to Hong Kong in October 1939, he met Walchand Hirachand, an Indian entrepreneur. The concept of having an aircraft production in India was inspired by that fortuitous encounter. Upon his arrival in India in July 1940, Pawley received British permission for the project within 72 hours.
The ambitious plan consisted of the construction of India’s first significant aircraft manufacturing. However, it wasn’t simple. The stockholders of Walchand’s Scindia Steam Navigation Company rejected his proposal. He subsequently made his way to the princely territories of Mysore, Baroda, Gwalior and Bhavnagar. They all refused one after another.
The statement made by the Honourable Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri D.K. Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar), that Nehru founded HAL, is far from the truth.
Nehru had nothing to do with it and facts are as follows:
— Yaduveer Wadiyar (@yaduveerwadiyar) May 28, 2025
However, Walchand and Pawley met the young king of Mysore when they arrived in Bangalore in October 1940. He was a visionary leader and hence the Mysore government invested ₹25 lakh in shares, guaranteed 700 acres of land for free and provided full assistance in less than 72 hours. Pawley choose the location himself. This was more than merely a business transaction, but it represented a pathway for India’s self-reliance. The king understood that aviation would influence the country’s future.
It moved at an incredible pace. Walchand served as Chairman of the Hindustan Aircraft Company when it was registered on 23rd December 1940, under the Mysore Companies Act. The very following day work began. The first structure and runway were completed in three weeks, by mid-January 1941. The business maintained an office in a home on Bangalore’s Domlur Road named “Eventide.” The first order from the Indian government was for 74 Vultee Attack Bombers, 30 Harlow PC5 Trainers and 48 Curtis Hawk Fighters all of which were due in 1942.
Wings to India’s aviation dreams
Less than a year after it was established, the business turned over its first aircraft, a Harlow Trainer, to the government on 29th August 1941 as India embarked on its aviation journey. The importance of Hindustan Aircraft increased as World War II intensified. All of CAMCO’s equipment was relocated to Mysore after Japan attacked its factory in China. The British Indian Government matched Mysore’s stake in April 1941 with an investment of ₹25 lakh.
This one is priceless in my collection. Maharaja of Mysore Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar and India's legendary plane designer Dr V M Ghatage (HAL). Behind them is HT-2. Young aerospace engineers must read up every bit on Dr Ghatage. #Avgeeks@akananthpic.twitter.com/zNZuu2DgO1
The British purchased Walchand’s shares in April 1942 for ₹57 lakh, a substantial profit on his ₹25 lakh investment, following Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 and its advance in Malaya. The Mysore administration granted the control to the British during the war but it refused to surrender its share.
The facility became the 84th Air Depot after it was taken over by the United States Army Air Forces in 1943. PBY Catalinas and other aircraft used in India and Burma were refurbished, making it one of Asia’s biggest aviation repair facilities. Mysore-based aircraft assisted in driving back Indian National Army and Japanese forces in Manipur and Nagaland. A compensation of ₹12.11 lakh was given to the Mysore government for pausing its stake in the war. Mysore soon returned to active engagement in April 1946.
Nurturing aviation ambitions
The Royal Air Force’s No. 129 Squadron, also known as the “Mysore Squadron,” was established owing to a £100,000 donation from Mysore. It participated in the Battle of Britain and other significant operations while flying Supermarine Spitfires. Its emblem included the Gandabherunda, the mythical two-headed bird of Mysore, along with the words “I will defend the right.” The king personally sent a Gandabherunda insignia and a message to each pilot stating, “My birth after the last war’s victory led to Jaya in my name, and my emblem is the Gandabherunda, the mightiest bird. I wish you Jaya in all your battles.”
The king also contributed 211 acres for the Government Flying School in Jakkur of Bangalore, which opened in 1948 and constructed Mandakalli Airport near Mysore. He even offered to train pilots on his own Dakota DC-3 aircraft. Usha Sundaram, India’s first female pilot, received her training at this institution. The Ministry of Defence reorganised and renamed Hindustan Aircraft as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on 1st October 1964. HAL is now an essential part of India’s aerospace and defense sector.
Creation of a modern scientific institution
The rulers of Mysore developed multiple educational institutions around the state because they believed that educating the populace was essential to modernization. The most important project they worked on was perhaps Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata’s ambitious plan to build an excellent research institute in India. Tata informed his friend K Seshadri Iyer who was also the Dewan of Mysore, of his plan during a visit to South India in 1899.
Maharani Kempananjammani Vani Vilasa Sannidhana was approached by the latter regarding whether and how Mysore could assist the industrialist. The Regent Queen readily agreed to back the proposal. She also committed to funding the project and supplying land. Iyer promptly informed Tata’s Provisional Committee, which was tasked with carrying out his vision. Mysore proposed that the university should be located in Bangalore.
Today is the birth anniversary of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar. The Mysore royal family donated 371 acres and 16 guntas of land well as funds to help set up IISc.
Director Prof G Rangarajan commemorated the occasion by garlanding the Maharaja's statue in the Main building. pic.twitter.com/rdcffuG46G
371 acres and 16 guntas of land in Bangalore were pledged along with ₹5 lakh for construction expenditures and a monthly payment of ₹30,000 (in 1905, this was raised to ₹50,000). The government approved the proposal, but before IISc could be established, many obstacles had to be removed, including those brought on by Tata’s tragic death in the summer of 1904. The land promised by the state was formally turned over by Mysore’s Dewan, Vice President Madhava Rao, on 14th March 1907.
Following a vesting order and resolution passed by the British Government of India to create the Institute, IISc (Indian Institute of Science) ultimately came into being on 27th May 1909. Mysore grants were by far the largest the institute would receive in its early years and they were also the highest from a local government in the years that followed (the only greater contributions in later years were from the Indian government). Additionally, Mysore provided students with recurring grants and scholarships as IISc continued to gain many benefits from the state after it was founded. The Institute’s research also directly led to the emergence of a number of industries over the following years.
Harnessing the power of the Cauvery
It was fortunate for the royal city to have Cauvery water in the early 1900s because of the work of Mysore officials and the availability of electricity. During the queen Vani Vilas regency, the administrators succeeded in something they had failed to do for decades. A project designed under Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar’s reign and completed under the queen’s supervision, the Vani Vilas Water Works is a testament to the labor that went into extracting water from the Cauvery River.
Major Alain Chartier Joly de Lotbiniere, a Mysore state employee had the initial idea to use the Cauvery’s power. He then proposed the concept to Mysore’s King Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, who talked about it with Dewan K Sheshadri Iyer, his chief administrator. However, according to other reports, Edmund Carrington, an electrical engineer was motivated in 1894 to use the power of the 100-meter-tall Gaganachukki Falls which are formed by the Cauvery tributary Kabini.
Notably, the two stories only prove that the project was supported by the Mysore state. The city was supplied with Cauvery water by the early 1900s which was pumped from the Devaraja canal on the riverbanks close to Belagola. The first hydroelectric plant in Asia was nearing completion at Shivanasamudra at this time courtesy to the vision of Mysore’s dewan K Sheshadri Iyer.
Kolar Gold Fields began receiving power from Shivanasamudra by 1902. Electricity was only introduced to Mysore in 1908. According to history, Vani Vilas was the regent when the effort to draw drinking water from the river was completed.
Innovation to maintain food security
The Central Food Technology Research Institute (CFTRI) is a leader in emerging technologies today. It’s interesting to note that the stark food shortages in India provide the ideal context for understanding the value of Wadiyar’s administrative foresight. Famine after famine struck India, with the Great Bengal famine being the worst on record.
The Viceroy of India did not mince words when describing the enormity of the situation, strict management of Mysore’s food supplies was vital. One of Wadiyar’s major achievements during the 1940–1947 period was controlling the food scarcity in Mysore and establishing administrative measures to stop a widespread famine, similar to what happened in Bengal.
Image via Wikipedia
The concept of establishing a research center that might look into the preservation, packaging and storage of grain samples for future generations could have been spawned by this struggle for food. Consequently, Mysore gave birth to the Central Food Technology Research Institute (CFTRI). The exceptionally lovely Cheluvamba Mansion, which was first built by Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV for the third Princess of Mysore, Cheluvajammanni, was dedicated to this cause by the state.
The pioneers of modern India
The rich culture of the area has been influenced by the rulers of the Wodeyar dynasty throughout history. Raja Wodeyar I began the Mahanavami festival celebrations in 1610 which are now known as the well-known Mysore Dasara celebrations. Furthermore, they made Mysore one of the first Indian states to adopt a parliamentary system in 1881. Members of the dynasty, Jayachamaraja Wodeyar and Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV were active members of the Constituent Assembly of India which helped bring about Indian independence.
They further advanced wildlife conservation through the establishment of Nagarhole National Park and Bandipur National Park, as well as the Mysore Zoo, which is among the oldest and most renowned zoos in India. The famous Mysore Palace is among the wonderful palaces, temples and public structures they commissioned.
They promoted classical music, dance and literature with the goal of conserving India’s rich cultural legacy. With the founding of libraries and the publication of works like the well-known Kannada epic “Kumaravyasa Bharata,” they were instrumental in the growth of Kannada literature and even Sanskrit. Likewise they supported the growth of Siddha and Unani medicine by opening clinics and hospitals in Mysore and promoting Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system.
Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV launched the major businesses, including the Silk Research Centre at Channapattana, the Soap Factory, the Sandal Oil Factory, Mysore Bank and the Steel Factory at Bhadravathi. They built Bangalore along modern lines and during his rule, a rail connection was established between Bangalore and Chikkaballapur and Arisikere.
Moreover, the current Vokkaligara Sangha was set up. Dewan Ananda Rao of Mysore played a pivotal role in bringing Sir M V Visveswaraya back to serve the state from Poona and his skill produced an engineering marvel such as Krishnaraja Sagara. The Cantonment area of Bangalore was fully developed as a modern city when the Mysore state acquired it from the British.
Image via navrangindia.in
The National Tuberculosis Institute (NTIB) on Bellary Road, housed in the historic Avalon building that was once the home of Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar’s sister is one of Bengaluru’s most notable landmarks. The structure, which is a leading Tuberculosis research facility under the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare was donated to the country by the Wadiyars.
The Wadiyars have significantly enhanced not only India’s society and culture but have also laid the groundwork for an innovative and educated India through their determined efforts. Future generations will continue to benefit from their contributions to the development and growth of the nation.
On Wednesday (28th May), the police arrested a Muslim man named Humayun Kabir for brutally murdering his parents and attacking 4 teachers at an orphanage after being inspired by ‘jihadi literature’.
The incident occurred in Memari town in Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal. A Bongaon court remanded him for 3 days in police custody.
According to reports, the accused purchased a knife from an e-commerce platform and slit the throat of his parents. He then dragged their bodies onto the road.
The deceased were identified as Haji Mustafizur Rahman (65) and Mumtaz Begum (55). Humayun Kabir then went to an orphanage (Hafizia Kharizia Orphanage Madrassa) in Bongaon, 130 km away from Memari, and attacked 4 teachers.
Visuals of the accused, roaming around with a knife in hand, have now surfaced on social media. As per reports, Humayun Kabir studied at the infamous leftist bastion of Jadavpur University.
He was browsing jihadi literature extensively before killing his parents, who he believe did not follow Islam. Kabir was married to a girl but got divorced within a year due to his jihadi mindset.
An incident took place in Bongaon PS area this evening when a mentally unstable person stabbed 4 persons in a fit of rage. Police promptly reached the spot and arrested the accused person. Subsequently, a group of agitated mob reached the police station and attempted to snatch…
He used to work in Noida but lost job 5 months ago. The parents of the accused brought him back to Memari.
Humayun Kabir believed that he would go to ‘jannat’ after killing his parents and hated that they wanted him to reform and give up on his extremist views. He was reportedly planning to escape to Bangladesh after committing the murders.
In the meantime, the Bongaon police department posted a tweet alleging that Kabir is ‘mentally unstable‘ – a term repeatedly used by the State police to downplay Islamist crimes.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has denied media reports claiming that the party is visiting house to house to distribute sindoor (vermilion). Referring to a report published by Hindi daily Dainik Bhaskar, BJP’s national IT cell head Amit Malviya called it fake news, and slammed the opposition for amplifying the same.
The report titled “Modi government will deliver vermilion to every home: Campaign to run for one month from 9th June, MPs will walk 15-20 km every day,” claimed that sindoor will gifted to women by BJP leaders during the campaign. The report stated that the campaign will start on 9th June, the day PM Modi took oath as PM for the third term. Dainik Bhaskar cited an unnamed BJP leader for the claim.
A similar claim was made by Zee News in its report on BJP’s plan to celebrate the third anniversary. The report stated, “The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is launching ‘Operation Sindoor’ on June 9, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third oath-taking, to highlight the achievements of the Modi 3.0 government nationwide. As part of this month-long public outreach, BJP aims to connect with every household, particularly by gifting vermillion to women and distributing informative pamphlets.”
Some other media outlets also carried the same claim.
However, now BJP leader Amit Malviya has clarified that it is fake news, and the party has not planned to distribute vermillion among women. He posted on X, “Many people are reacting on social media based on this #FakeNews published in Dainik Bhaskar.”
बहुत सारे लोग भास्कर में प्रकाशित इस #FakeNews के आधार पर सोशल मीडिया पर अपनी प्रतिक्रिया दे रहे हैं। लेकिन हद तो तब हो गई जब पश्चिम बंगाल की मुख्यमंत्री, एक अधिकृत सरकारी मंच से, एक ट्रोल की तरह इस आधारहीन खबर को लेकर राजनीति करने लगीं।
Malviya also slammed West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee over her attack on PM Modi using the fake news, and said, “But the real absurdity began when the Chief Minister of West Bengal, from an official government platform, started politicizing this baseless report like a troll.”
Mamata Banerjee made a statement accusing PM Modi using Operation Sindoor for his political benefits, and said that PM was selling Sindoor. She further alleged that Modi is pretending to be husband of everybody, and asked why he is not giving Sindoor to his wife first. She added, “You are not husband of everybody, why you are not giving to you wife first?”
The Bengal CM also alleged that while PM Modi sent opposition leaders to various countries to place India’s side on the conflict against Pakistan, the PM himself was roaming inside the country.
"Modi is pretending to be the husband of everybody. Why isn't he giving sindur to his wife first?”Mamata Banerjee's comment about the PM lacks respect and dignity.
Actually she doesn’t understand the margin between a father and a husband because she is inspired by ISLAM where… pic.twitter.com/AS9JnxzHtr
Referring to her comments, Malviya said, “Mamata Banerjee should be concerned about the deteriorating condition of her own state and refrain from making ridiculous statements on sensitive issues like national security. West Bengal is burning in the fire of communal tensions, women are not safe, the unemployed have no jobs — these should be Mamata Banerjee’s priorities.”
Referring to comments of Congress spokespersons on the issue, Amit Malviya said, “they are frivolous people. It would be unreasonable to expect anything better from them.” Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate posted a video on social media saying that women put vermillion on their hair partings in only their husband’s name, and asked who are the BJP workers that will distribute vermillion among women.
Taking a significant leap towards achieving the vision of Digital India, the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, launched two transformative digital platforms- ‘Know Your DIGIPIN’ and ‘Know Your PIN Code’ on Tuesday (27th May). The move marks an important milestone in the direction of modernising India’s addressing system and geospatial governance.
The platforms have been launched as part of the National Geospatial Policy 2022, which aims to project India as a global leader in the geospatial sector.
What is DIGIPIN
DIGIPIN is part of the postal department’s vision to offer Address-as-a-Service (AaaS), which includes a range of services associated with address data management to support secure and efficient interactions between users, government entities, and private sector organisations. The department took the initiative to establish a standardised, geo-coded addressing framework in India, aimed at simplifying address identification and facilitating citizen-centric delivery of public and private services. The platform has been developed by the Department of Posts in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Image via X/Sougat Chakraborty
Officially reviewed and adopted by the Thematic Working Group on Address under the National Geospatial Policy 2022, DIGIPIN is now available to all Ministeries, State governments, institutions for integration into the workflows, and users for their own use.
How does DIGIPIN work
DIGIPIN or the Digital Postal Index Number is an open-source, interoperable, geo-coded, grid-based digital address system. It simplifies locating places by dividing the entire geography of India into precise 4×4 meter units where each grid is assigned a unique 10-character alphanumeric code based on longitude and latitude coordinates. It is a permanent digital address that will not change even if the names of the streets, localities or places change. The platform will prove to be helpful in precise location of areas which are unstructured, constantly changing or no address rural regions, forests, and oceans. This will ensure last-mile delivery in remote areas which otherwise can’t be located with an address.
Image via X/Sougat Chakraborty
DIGIPIN provides a digital representation for a physical location along with a stable location identification. It complements the existing location system by adding precision, stability and permanency. DIGIPIN for a location can be retrieved by visiting the ‘Know Your DIGIPIN’ portal which generates a unique 10-character pin using precise coordinates. The portal does not store any personal information ensuring user privacy.
By providing improved location accuracy, DIGIPIN will help ensure accurate service delivery across multiple sectors and will also reduce emergency response period. Since it is open-source, a complete repository of the DIGIPIN technical documentation and source code is available on GitHub.
‘Know your PINCODE’
In order to modernise the existing 6-digit PIN Code system that has been in use since 1972, the Department of Posts undertook a national geofencing exercise across all postal jurisdictions to geo-reference all the pin code boundaries of the country. As a result, the Department launched the ‘Know Your PIN Code’ portal which makes use of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based location features to enable users to identify the correct pin code of a location. The portal also allows user to provide feedback for continuous improvement of the dataset. The complete geo-fenced PIN Code boundary data has been published on the Open Government Data Platform under the title “All India PIN Code Boundary geo-json”.
Image via X/Sougat Chakraborty
The Department of Posts has invited active feedback from citizens on ‘Know Your DIGIPIN’ and ‘Know Your PIN Code’ portals so that their services can be further refined.
Speaking on the occasion of the launch of the two platforms, Vandita Kaul, Secretary, Department of Posts, said, “The launch of these two applications reflects our government’s unwavering commitment to digital transformation and precision governance. DIGIPIN, in particular, will redefine how we perceive addresses, ensuring that every citizen, even in the remotest part of the country, is digitally locatable and serviceable. These applications are a testimony to the Department’s continued efforts to modernise infrastructure and meet the evolving expectations of citizens and all other stakeholders”.
National Geospatial Policy 2022
The policy was launched by the Government of India in Decemeber 2022, with a long-term vision of liberalising and democractising the access to geospatial data, fostering innovation and enabling its widespread use across governance, businesses and academia. It seeks to ensure that geospatial database generated with public funds are openly accessible. One of the important goals of the policy is to establish a high-resolution topographical survey and mapping system by 2030 along with a highliy accurate Digital Elevation Model (DEM) for the entire country.
The policy recognises the significant role that geospatial technology can play in governance, economic growth, and societal development. Therefore, it focuses on strengthening institutional frameworks, enhacning national and state-level coordination to develeop a vibrant geospatial ecosystem.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday (27th May) lashed out at the Uttar Pradesh government saying that the government was interfering in the case concerning the management of the Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan, which the Apex Court described as a private litigation. The remarks came during the hearing of an petition challenging a previous order passed by the Supreme Court allowing the Uttar Pradesh government to utilise the temple funds for purchasing 5 acres of land around the temple for the development of a corridor.
A bench of Justices VB Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma was hearing the petition filed by a temple priest seeking modification of the Supreme Court order. A displeased Justice Nagarathna said that the state’s interference in a private litigation would lead to the breakdown of the rule of law. “Was the State a party to the proceedings? In what capacity has it entered the dispute? If states start interfering in private disputes, there will be a complete breakdown of the rule of law. You can not hijack the litigation,” Justice Nagarathna told the counsel representing the state government who sought impleadment in the case. Justice Nagarathna expressed concern over the state government filing an impleadment in a private litigation and said that it can do development work without being party to the litigation.
Notably, Justice Sharma, who was part of the bench, had authored the Supreme Court order permitting the Uttar Pradesh government to utilise the temple funds.
Petitioner challenged the SC’s order, opposed the redevelopment project, and Kapil Sibal represented him
The petitioner Devendra Nath Goswami, represented by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, was seeking the permission to be made party in the case. Sibal argued before the court that the UP government was allowed to use the temple funds without making Goswami a party. Goswami submitted before the court that he was a lineal descendant of the Banke Bihari temple’s founder Swami Hari Das Goswami and that his family has been managing the affairs of the temple for the last 500 years.
Goswami also challenged the temple corridor redevelopment project, claiming that the implementation of project was unfeasible and that any attempt for the redevelopment of the temple premises without the involvement of the inputs of those who were historically and operationally associated with the temple’s functioning would lead to administrative chaos.
Additionally, Senior Advocate Sibal pointed out that the order allowing the state to use temple funds was passed in a case a separate case filed regarding Giriraj temple. “How can you, by an order in another petition, direct that a private temple’s earnings be handed over to the government?” Sibal questioned. He argued that the order was passed in an intervention petition filed by the state government in a special leave petition that was not related to the case. He contended that the intervention of the Uttar Pradesh government was improper and legally unsound.
What order did the Supreme Court pass?
On 15th May, a bench of Justices Bela M Trivedi and Satich Chandra Sharma passed an order permitting the state government to utilise temple funds for acquiring land for the implementation of the ₹500 crore Shri Banke Bihari Temple Corridor development plan. The Supreme Court order modified an Allahabad High Court order passed in a PIL, which prohibited the purchase of the land around the temple using temple funds.
After taking note of the records placed by the state government regarding the proposed development project, the Supreme Court granted the permission to purchase the land on the condition that the land will be registered in the name of the deity or the temple trust and will be used for building public amenities like parking facilities, accommodation for devotees, toilets, security posts and other logistical support infrastructure.
The apex court’s approval to the state government’s development plan for the Shri Banke Bihari Temple Corridor came particularly in light of incidents such as the 2022 stampede at the Banke Bihari Temple.
The top court also took note of maladministration in temples in the Braj region and emphasised that effective temple governance is not only a legal requirement but also a matter of public and spiritual welfare. It further directed the Civil Judge (Senior Division), Mathura, to appoint a Receiver having relevant adequate administrative experience, historical, religious and social background, preferably belonging to the Vaishnav Sampradaya.
State government set up Trust to handle temple funds, ensure better crowd management
The counsel appearing for the state government submitted before the top court that the state government passed an ordinance on 26th May to form a trust for the purpose of overseeing the work of the development project. He pointed out that the trust will be handling the temple funds and not the state government. “Now the enactment has come into force. Funda are with the Trust and not with the state,” submitted the state’s counsel before the court.
The Uttar Pradesh Shri Bankey Bihari Ji Mandir Nyas Adhiniyam 2025 states that the Trust will ensure that the religious rituals, practices, festivals, and puja at Banke Bihari Temple continue without any interference or changes. The trust will only oversee the appointment of priests, ensure the security of devotees, and supervise work on the proposed corridor. The baord will habe 18 members, with 11 nominated ones and 7 ex officio members, including 2 from the temple’s traditional Goswami priests. Non-Hindus will not be appointed in the board.
Currently, devotees at the temple have to navigate through extremely narrow lanes without proper amenities. The 2022 stampede incident drew the government’s attention to decide on better management for the temple and the surrounding areas. On busy day, the temple sees lakhs of devotees, risking major incidents. The Trust hopes to prevent untoward incidents in the future and ensure that the lakhs of devotees arriving at the Banke Bihari temple experience a safer environment with proper amenities.
The Apex Court directed the counsel for the state to place on record a copy of the Ordinance and directed the concerned Principal Secretary to file an affidavit by 29th July.
A violent conflict has recently erupted between Thailand and Cambodia over a contested territory along their border which both countries claim as their own. This region holds significant cultural value for both countries and is home to an ancient Hindu temple which is 900 years old and has an auspicious Shiva Lingam, in the Preah Vihear province.
A Cambodian soldier was killed in a firefight that took place between Cambodian and Thai troops on the morning of 28th May. The instance reportedly occurred in Techo Morakot village, located in the Morakot commune of Choam Ksan district. This clash followed a prolonged period of increasing tensions between the two countries.
According to the Ministry of Defense of Cambodia, the incident, which was labeled as “unprovoked,” transpired after Thai troops launched an initial offensive against a position that had been occupied by Cambodian forces for a considerable duration. The Royal Thai Army, in a statement, claimed that the Cambodian soldiers initiated the firing and they responded accordingly.
The country’s minister of defense Phumtham Wechayachai stated, “I have been informed that the return fire was necessary to defend ourselves and protect Thailand’s sovereignty. I have instructed caution. Although the ceasefire holds, both sides continue to face each other.”
Thailand asserted that its troops were attacked while attempting to persuade Cambodian troops to withdraw from establishing a post in a contested area. “Cambodian forces misunderstood the situation and started using weapons, so Thai forces retaliated,” Thai army spokesman Major General Winthai Suvaree mentioned.
“This clash is not something Cambodia desires. We will continue discussions with the Thai Ministry of Defense to find a mutual solution that will quickly return the situation to normal and prevent such incidents from occurring again,” expressed Cambodia’s Defense Ministry.
Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet addressed the nation on 29th May and declared that he did not want a war between Cambodian and Thai military, stating that people should not “panic over unverified material being circulated,” in a written statement. “For this reason, I hope that the upcoming meeting between the Cambodian and Thai army commanders will produce positive results to preserve stability and good military communication between the two countries, as we have done in the past,” he expressed.
He further mentioned, “Even though I am in Japan, the command system and hierarchy for major military operations such as troop movements remain under my full responsibility as prime minister.” The clash continued for approximately 10 minutes until the local commanders communicated with one another and issued a ceasefire order. Afterward, the Southeast Asian neighbours decided to withdraw troops from the region.
The next two weeks would see the formation of a Joint Boundary Committee to “solve the problem of the border conflict.” The commanders agreed to use “existing mechanisms to resolve disputes,” according to the Royal Cambodian Army, although it will not withdraw its forces from the conflict zone.
The contentious border between Thailand and Cambodia
The border, which is more than 800 kilometers (500 miles) long and was mainly drawn during the French colonization of Indochina, has been the subject of a long-running dispute between the neighbors, leading to armed conflicts, notably one that happened in 2008 close to the historic temple was inducted as a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Site that year.
A confrontation also broke out along the border in 2011, close to the 11th-century temple and resulted in multiple deaths as well as injuries. There have been at least 28 fatalities as a result of the years of intermittent violence. The fresh tensions were originated in February when Cambodian troops and their families sung the country’s national anthem inside Prasat Ta Moan Thom temple. Thai soldiers who were stationed nearby confronted them. An intense verbal exchange between the two sides was captured on camera by a Thai person and went viral online.
Although a peaceful resolution is Cambodia’s top priority, Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia warned in March that if Thai soldiers infringed on Cambodian sovereignty, the nation would be prepared to employ military force. After a conference in May, military leaders from Thailand and Cambodia decided to keep troops in their current locations and only place five of each nation’s soldiers directly at the temple site in order to avoid more skirmishes.
The ancient temple
The Preah Vihear in Cambodia transcends the contemporary Southeast Asian republics. The majority of the temple’s surviving portions are from the Khmer Empire’s heyday, the 11th and 12th centuries. Modern Cambodians, who still call themselves Khmers, have direct ancestry from the Khmer people. They reigned from the 9th to the 15th century over most of mainland Southeast Asia, including what is now Thailand (formerly known as Siam) and built the spectacular complex at Angkor Wat.
Preah Vihear Shiva Temple (Image Credits: Klook)
Khmer temples are known for their remarkable architecture. The influence of Hinduism, the primary religion of the Khmer monarchs at that time is evident in the temple. Additionally, it incorporates aspects of Buddhism, which subsequently gained popularity in the region. Preah Vihear has not always been governed by Cambodia, despite its Khmer heritage. The Siamese kingdoms and the contemporary Thai state that replaced them have occasionally controlled or occupied the region it now inhabits.
Prasat Ta Moan Thom or Ta Moan is also situated right on the disputed border between the provinces of Surin in Thailand and Oddar Meanchey in Cambodia. Friction between the two countries has frequently arisen because of its location in the Dangrek Mountains. It was constructed as a Hindu shrine and devoted to Lord Shiva. It is older than its two companion temples, Prasat Ta Muen and Prasat Ta Muen Tot. Its significance as a hallowed place of worship was demonstrated by the discovery of a natural Shiva lingam inside its main chamber.
This Hindu temple is the most expansive of the three temples located in its vicinity. It sits on one of the routes of the Dangrek Mountains, a key location that divides the Cambodian plains from Thailand’s Khorat plateau. The temple has a rectangular design and is primarily composed of laterite, a hardy red soil, with some sandstone components.
Interestingly, unlike most Khmer temples which are orientated toward east, its main entrance faces south. The temple complex lies in a region where Thailand and Cambodia do not yet have a clear border and hence it is claimed by both nations which results in a frequent military presence and sporadic violence.
The historical dispute
Preah Vihear and adjacent regions were taken by Thailand in 1941 as part of a military alliance with Japan. It once again changed hands following the defeat of the French colonial forces in 1953, after its return to France. In 1954, Thai forces replaced the leaving French troops in the region as a newly independent Cambodia attempted to stand alone. Five years later, Cambodia complained and brought a case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Preah Vihear Temple is located at the heart of the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute
In 1962, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled 9 to 3 in favor of Cambodia after concluding that the Thai people had accepted the French border demarcation for nearly 50 years. Preah Vihear was essentially off-limits for many years following the 1963 handover because of heavy mining and struggle for control by Khmer Rouge guerrillas and other groups. It wasn’t until the Khmer Rouge organization disintegrated in the late 1990s that the site was opened to tourists.
The governments of Thailand and Cambodia implemented policies in the ensuing years to improve the accessibility for tourists and religious pilgrims. However, when Cambodia attempted to register Preah Vihear as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, the enduring ownership controversy resurfaced. The Thai government raised an objection, arguing that the proposal mentioned Thai-owned territory surrounding the temple.
The administration of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej agreed to a revised Cambodian application and signed a communique with the country. However, the Samak government withdrew the support due to strong domestic criticism. As UNESCO considered the application, the situation deteriorated further. Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama was sued by opposition members in Thailand, who maintained that the communique he had signed with Cambodia was unlawful.
The Thai Constitutional Court upheld the charge, nevertheless, the next day, Cambodia’s bid for Preah Vihear was accepted by UNESCO. Tensions reached dangerous heights as Noppadon stepped down and Cambodians rejoiced. As Thai demonstrations erupted, Cambodia blocked the border to Preah Vihear. Hundreds of Thai and Cambodian soldiers were positioned nearby within a week, many of them in disputed regions right next to the temple.
Similar scenes were witnessed again in 2011 when over a dozen individuals including soliders were killed and many others were wounded as well as nearly 100,000 villagers were forced to leave as a result of a multi-day conflict between Thai and Cambodian military. Both nations accused each other. Cambodia claimed that Thai troops entered officially recognized Cambodian territory before dawn and started shooting rockets and weapons, forcing them to counterattack. Cambodia fired first, according to Thailand, whose troops had been on a regular patrol in the region.
Cambodia requested the ICJ to interpret the 1962 judgment in April 2011, pointing out that although Thailand acknowledges Cambodia’s sovereignty over the temple itself, it does not seem to accept the latter’s sovereignty over the area surrounding the temple. Therefore, in 2013, the court unanimously decided that Thailand must remove its troops from the Preah Vihear promontory since Cambodia held authority over the entire region.
Additionally, it confirmed that the temple, which was added on UNESCO’s 2008 World Heritage List, is a place of religious and cultural importance to the local populace. Thailand and Cambodia, both parties to the World historic Convention, are required to work together to conserve the monument as a world historic site, the court observed and added that it is mandatory for every state to refrain from “taking any deliberate measures which might damage directly or indirectly” such legacy.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has banned the release of Kamal Haasan starrer Thug Life over the actor’s controversial remark about the Kannada language during the audio launch of his movie in Chennai last week.
During the media interaction in Bengaluru on Friday, Sa Ra Govindu, representative of KFCC, said that they have decided to ban the release of Kamal Haasan starrer ‘Thug Life’ in Karnataka as they stand firm with Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and other Kannada organisations for their demands of halting the release of the film until the actor issues a pubic apology.
The KFCC representative said that Kamal Haasan has not issued an apology yet for hurting the sentiments of Kannada people during his promotional event in Chennai.
He said, “When there is pressure, I have to do. Even Karnataka Rakshana Vedike were present; whatever they say, we should do it. Even they would speak about it. Definitely, there is no ‘Sorry’ term being specified anywhere by Kamal Hassan. We will surely not release the film. We (KFCC) will stand with Rakshina Vedike and other Kannada organisations.”
Kamal Haasan and his movie ‘Thug Life’ came under the radar of controversy in Karnataka after the actor reportedly stated that “Kannada is born out of Tamil” during a promotional event in Chennai.
Following it, the protests were held near the INOX cinema hall in Karnataka’s Belagavi against Kamal Haasan. The protests were organised by the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike organisation, which expressed its anger and demanded the actor’s apology over the issue.
On Wednesday, the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticised Kamal Haasan following his reported remark about the Kannada language, stating that he was not aware of the “long-standing” history of the language.
“Kannada has a long-standing history. Poor Kamal Haasan, he is unaware of it,” the Karnataka CM said.
Congress MLA from Karnataka Rizwan Arshad expressed his disappointment over Haasan’s remark, calling it unfortunate and questioning the necessity of such a debate at a time when national unity is paramount.
“What kind of a debate is this? The Kannada language has a history of thousands of years… Kannada and Tamil are ancient languages and part of our country’s foundation… Is this debate necessary at a time when all of us have to be united? … I did not expect Kamal Haasan to make such a statement. It is unfortunate,” Arshad said.
‘Thug Life’ is directed by Mani Ratnam and stars Kamal Haasan, Trisha Krishnan and Silambarasan TR in the lead roles.
(This news report is published from a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has not been written or edited by OpIndia staff)
The civil mock drills under Operation Shield will be conducted in India on 31st May 2025 in states and union territories along the International Border and Line of Control (LoC). The mock drills, earlier scheduled for 29th May, were postponed due to administrative reasons. However, the authorities have confirmed preparedness to conduct the mock drills on the revised date.
The drills will be conducted in the states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Gujarat, along with the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Chandigarh. The civil mock drills have been announced in the wake of mounting tensions with the hostile neighbour Pakistan after India conducted Operation Sindoor in the aftermath of Pakistan-backed Pahalgam terror attack.
Through an official order, the Indian government has mandated that on May 31, the Civil Defence Exercise Operation Shield be carried out in every district of the states and Union Territories along the western border.
Why are civil mock drills being conducted
The civil mock drills are being conducted after the authorities found several improvement areas in civil defence preparedness in the nation’s most vulnerable regions during the 7th May civil defence exercise. In order to address these gaps, the necessary directives were issued, which resulted in the use of emergency powers and funding agreements via the SDRF.
What will happen during Operation Shield
Under Operation Shield, local administration stakeholders, volunteers, and Civil Defence wardens will help in civil defence efforts. The volunteers will be mobilised from organisations like Bharat Scouts and Guides, NYKS, NCC, and NSS. There will be simulated missile attacks, drone incursions, and air raids. Moreover, a deployment of centrally controlled air raid sirens and the activation of hotlines between the Air Force and Civil Defence Control Rooms would take place. All civilian buildings will be subject to complete blackout procedures, with the exception of emergency and vital services.
There will be a simulation of a military station attack by enemy drones, calling for coordination between the Station Commander and Civil Administration for the evacuation of families to safer locations.
In addition, twenty victim evacuation simulations will be rehearsed. The mock drills will also involve the augmentation of medical teams in reaction to mass injuries, and 30 units of blood will be procured for the injured.
The Indian Army has called for the urgent deployment of Border Wing Home Guards to assist certain Armed Forces units as part of the Rear Area Security Plan.
Exercises for de-induction and mobilisation before deployment to Indian Army operational sites will also be conducted.
Madhya Pradesh police arrested a Muslim man named Mubarak Mansuri in Baloda village in Garoth, Madhya Pradesh on 22nd May, for allegedly performing occult practices and sexually abusing Hindu women. Mansuri is said to have targeted dozens of Hindu women by luring them through his occult practices. The matter came to light after the family of one of the women filed a complaint against him.
According to Dainik Bhaskar, Mansuri declared a man as mentally unfit and had obscene conversations with the man’s sister-in-law. On finding out about this, the man’s family informed the police who arrested Mansuri.
Mansuri portrayed himself as a Hindu Tantrik
Mubarak Mansuri, a Muslim, used to portray himself as a Hindu and even forged an Aadhar card. He has been involved in occult practices for over 10 years. He used to specifically target vulnerable Hindu women who approached him seeking remedies for their problems. He used to sedate the women and rape them when they fell unconscious. Police seized incriminating material from his possession including books related to occult practices, pornographic literature and unlabelled medicine and aphrodisiacs.
Garoth Station House Officer, Harish Malviya said, “The accused was arrested as soon as the complaint was received. Investigation revealed that the accused had made fake Aadhar cards and other documents to hide his identity. Investigations are being conducted to find out how many people he has targeted so far.”
What the complainant family said
The members of the family who filed the complaint against Mansuri said that they were initially afraid to raise their voice. They said that he targeted around 25-30 women in the village but no one called him out.
‘We are a joint family. We have been living here for generations. About 30 years ago, a Muslim family came and settled in the village. Mubarik Mansuri is a member of the family. When he came to the village with his parents, he must have been eight to ten years old. Now he is about 34 years old,” said a member of the family. Mansuri started practicing black magic and gained the trurst of the villagers over the years. His followers included mostly women.
“About three-four years ago, my elder brother had some problem in his head. He was taken to many doctors but nothing helped. When we got tired, for the past few days Bhabhi (sister-in-law) started going to a Tantrik for brother’s treatment. We did not like this but what could we do? We had lost hope from everywhere. My brother was her husband so we could not say much. We thought that she was doing everything for brother only. Bhabhi used to stay at the tantrik’s place for many hours. When asked, she used to say that exorcism is done, that is why it takes time. The tantrik used to give her some medicine to feed to the brother,” said the brother of the man declared as mentally unfit by Mansuri.
The family claimed that the condition of the man kept getting worse after taking the medicines given by Mansuri. They tried to talk to his wife about this but she was not willing to listen. Subsequently, one day, she forgot her mobile phone at home which had her objectionable pictures with Mansuri. Her family confronted her and filed a complaint with the police on 20th May.
Hindu organisations demand action
Members of several Hindu organisations staged protests against the incident and demanded the demolition of the house of the accused. They submitted a memorandum to the SDM and demanded strict action against Mansuri.
