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‘There is infighting in Congress on Leader of Opposition’: Haryana CM Saini

ANI
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‘There is infighting in Congress on Leader of Opposition’: Haryana CM Saini

Haryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini attacked the Congress party over the delay in the selection of the Leader of the Opposition in the Haryana Assembly claiming that there was infighting in the party on LoP.

He criticized the Congress for spreading lies and misleading the public, not just in Haryana but also in the parliament through the leaders of the INDIA bloc.

“It is the internal matter of the Congress party to choose the Leader of the Opposition of Haryana assembly. There is infighting in the Congress on LoP…The role of Congress as the opposition is worrisome. They only spread lies and mislead the public. In the parliament also the leaders of the INDI alliance spread lies…The public has understood the reality and has stopped trusting the Congress party…All the parties of the INDI alliance are involved in corruption,” he said.

CM Saini met Prime Minister, Narendra Modi on Saturday. During the meeting, the Chief Minister discussed various developmental projects and initiatives aimed at the growth of the state. The Chief Minister expressed his vision that, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the “double-engine” government (Haryana and central government) will accelerate the pace of development in Haryana.

The Chief Minister was addressing the media persons after he met with the Prime Minister at Haryana Bhawan, New Delhi.

The Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister emphasised the need to speed up development initiatives to make life easier and more facile for the citizens. In line with this goal, the Chief Minister had previously met with the Union Minister, of Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, and the Union Minister, of Road, Transport, and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, where several projects received approval.

CM Saini affirmed his commitment to advancing Haryana’s development, promising efforts to elevate the state to new heights in growth and progress. Under these projects, plans for expanding the metro rail and the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) in Gurugram, along with extending the RRTS project from Sarai Kale Khan to Panipat, further up to Karnal. Similarly, to reduce traffic jams and make commuting easy for people, a network of roads is being constructed across Haryana.

Responding to a question about the representation of women in the Haryana Assembly, the Chief Minister said that PM Modi launched the ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’ campaign from Panipat, Haryana. Over the past decade, the Central Government has focused on empowering women. Recently, the Union Government passed the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ to strengthen women’s role in governance. The Chief Minister said that this bill will certainly enable more women to serve in Legislative Assemblies.

He expressed that the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ was a gift from the Prime Minister to empower women, enabling them to explore new frontiers. Further, he highlighted initiatives like ‘Drone Didi’ and the empowerment of women’s self-help groups, part of the double-engine government’s commitment to skill and support women across India.

The Chief Minister in response to a question about paddy procurement stated that he has directed the officers to ensure the procurement of every grain of paddy with moisture content up to 17 per cent and if any complaint is received in this regard, strict action will be taken against them.

CM Saini said that International Gita Mahotsav is celebrated every year in Kurukshetra, the land where Lord Krishna imparted the wisdom of the Gita. The festival attracts people from not only across the nation but from abroad as well, including Union Ministers and other distinguished guests.

While responding to a question regarding the Rajya Sabha candidate for Haryana, the Chief Minister said that such decisions are made by the party’s central parliamentary board. Speaking about the BJP’s membership campaign, he said that the BJP has launched a membership campaign with specific targets assigned by the party’s national president, J.P. Nadda. As part of this initiative, each MLA has been tasked with adding 20,000 new members, while each MP has a target of enrolling 30,000 new members.

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

Centre to launch nationwide drive against manufacturers and retailers of substandard helmets

ANI
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Centre to launch nationwide drive against manufacturers and retailers of substandard helmets

In an effort to improve road safety and protect consumers from sub-standard helmets, the central government has directed District Collectors (DCs) and District Magistrates (DMs) to launch a nationwide campaign targeting manufacturers and retailers selling non-compliant helmets for two-wheeler riders.

This initiative by the Department of Consumer Affairs addresses growing concerns about the quality of helmets available in the market and their essential role in protecting lives on the road.

Helmets are critical safety products, and the manufacture of sub-standard or non-ISI helmets severely impacts life safety.

To date, 162 helmet manufacturing licences have been cancelled or have expired. Additionally, 27 search and seizure operations have been conducted to address the misuse of the BIS Standard Mark and violations of quality controls, with cases filed in various courts.

Under the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, wearing a helmet is mandatory.

Reports have indicated that sub-standard helmets, lacking the required BIS certification, are being sold along roadsides.

“This poses a severe risk to public safety and has been linked to numerous fatalities in road accidents. There is an urgent need to tackle this issue head-on. The Government calls for strict enforcement against manufacturers operating without BIS licenses or using counterfeit ISI Marks, as well as against retailers selling these non-compliant products to unsuspecting consumers,” stated the government.

Consumers can verify a helmet manufacturer’s BIS licence through the BIS Care App or by visiting the BIS website.

Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Consumer Affairs, Government of India, said, “We urge all stakeholders to actively participate in this campaign for the safety of our citizens.”

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

Jharkhand elections: Congress MLA Irfan Ansari uses abusive words targeting BJP leader Sita Soren, BJP files complaint with EC

OpIndia Staff
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Jharkhand elections: Congress MLA Irfan Ansari uses abusive words targeting BJP leader Sita Soren, BJP files complaint with EC

On 25th October, Congress MLA Irfan Ansari stirred controversy by issuing a controversial remark against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sita Soren. In a statement, without taking her name, he used derogatory language and called Soren “rejected maal” or “rejected goods.” BJP has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission over the remarks. Reportedly, following his nomination filing, Ansari referred to Soren in derogatory terms and labelled her as “rejected maal.” The comments sparked outrage among BJP leaders, who called for action against him.

BJP demands action from Election Commission

A formal complaint to the Election Commission has been submitted through party official Sudhir Srivastava. BJP has demanded Ansari to be barred from the state and prohibited from contesting the elections. Furthermore, BJP has also urged the authorities to initiate criminal proceedings against Ansari. Srivastava, in his complaint, highlighted that Sita Soren, a Scheduled Tribe member and widow, has been gravely insulted. He stated that the remarks from the Congress leader reflect disdain for Soren as well as for all widows and tribal women across the country.

Ansari’s comments raise concerns about respect for tribal women

Srivastava further questioned if Ansari’s remarks echoed the party’s stance towards tribal women. He called Ansari’s remarks indicative of a broader disrespect for tribal women across the Congress Party. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Sinha also criticised the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Significantly, Sita Soren was a JMM leader until recently. She left the party and joined BJP. Sinha asked JMM if the party would have remained silent if such comments were directed at another member of the Soren family, like Kalpana Soren. Sinha further urged JMM to publicly condemn Ansari’s statement.

Sita Soren’s response on social media

Responding to Ansari’s comments, Sita Soren expressed disappointment on the social media platform X. She demanded an apology from Ansari, stating that his language has crossed all boundaries of decency, and warned him of an intensified protest if he does not issue a public apology. Soren further condemned Ansari’s words while noting that his statements not only reflected a dismissive attitude toward her but also instilled fear among women, particularly those who are vulnerable.

She said, “Congress candidate Irfan Ansari must apologise for the inappropriate language he used for me immediately after his nomination in front of the media. He has previously made personal remarks about me, but this time, he has crossed all boundaries. Irfan Ji, apologise, or be prepared for intense protest. Using such indecent language while holding an esteemed position has instilled fear among women across society. If you can use such words for me, what must poor and helpless women go through? As long as leaders like you remain in power, women will remain unsafe. The time has come to uproot such people from power. The way you view women is now clear to the public, and the public will respond to this,” in the post on X in Hindi.

Congress leader Irfan Ansari claimed his remarks were misrepresented

In a statement on X in Hindi, Ansari claimed his remarks were misrepresented and warned of legal action. He said, “Political game through fake video: ₹100 crore defamation claim against BJP and Sita Soren; will file complaint with the Election Commission. It is clear that BJP and Sita Soren have cropped and misrepresented my video. In the original video, I did not even mention Sita Soren’s name, yet BJP is deceitfully using a cropped version to spread lies against me. Upon joining BJP, they have stooped so low as to try and mislead the people of Jamtara region with lies. Sita Soren Ji, you may want to win the election using this cropped video, but remember, the people of Jamtara stand with me and know me well.”

He added, “No matter what tricks you try, the trust of the people remains steadfast with me. This attempt to defame me is not only an attack on my reputation but also a conspiracy to suppress the truth. I will file a ₹100 crore defamation claim against Sita Soren and BJP, and I will also take this matter to the Election Commission. This is the same BJP that, during the Lok Sabha elections, had false allegations made against Nala MLA and Assembly Speaker Ravindra Nath Mahato’s son, which were later exposed. Now, these schemers are using the same tactics against me. I will soon seek justice in court and take strict steps against these false accusations. The people of Jharkhand know the truth, and together we will soon expose this web of lies.”

Jharkhand Assembly Elections

The voting for Jharkhand Assembly Elections is scheduled for 13th and 20th November. Apart from Jharkhand, Maharashtra is also holding Assembly elections, with voting scheduled on 20th November. The results will be announced on 23rd November for both states.

GST fraud case: The Hindu ‘journalist’ Mahesh Langa’s bail plea rejected, Crime Branch had opposed bail citing hindrance in ongoing investigation

OpIndia Staff
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GST fraud case: The Hindu ‘journalist’ Mahesh Langa’s bail plea rejected, Crime Branch had opposed bail citing hindrance in ongoing investigation

The court has denied the bail application of Mahesh Langa, a ‘journalist’ from The Hindu accused of a multi-crore GST scam. On Friday, October 25, the Ahmedabad Metropolitan Court ruled on Langa’s application. He is currently in Sabarmati Jail in Ahmedabad. The Crime Branch opposed Langa’s bail application in court, arguing that further investigation is required. They stated that granting bail could interfere with the ongoing investigation.

Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate MV Chauhan rejected Langa’s bail application and issued an order. The District Crime Branch (DCB), which apprehended Langa and the other accused, argued that the investigation is ongoing. In its written statement, DCB stated that several ‘confidential documents’ were found at Langa’s residence, which are under examination. They added that if Langa were granted bail, he might contact individuals connected to these documents, potentially hindering the investigation.

Additionally, the DCB provided details of the case to the court, revealing that Langa allegedly conspired with the owners of Dhruvi Enterprises to evade ‘taxes and GST.’ It was further alleged that Langa obtained a GST number using forged documents and conducted transactions worth ₹43.35 lakh with Dhruvi Enterprises. According to the Crime Branch, Langa created DA Enterprise in his wife’s name to evade taxes, and ₹20 lakh found in his residence was allegedly earned through tax evasion.

On October 8, the Crime Branch arrested Mahesh Langa as part of the GST scam investigation. The DCB informed the court that over 200 illegally formed companies and organizations nationwide, working in a coordinated manner, were involved in this scam by taking advantage of fake Input Tax Credits (ITC). So far, 14 people have been arrested in this case, including ‘journalist’ Mahesh Langa.

Additional FIR for Leaking Government Documents in Gandhinagar

Earlier this week, Gandhinagar Police filed another FIR against Langa, alleging he possessed and leaked confidential government documents related to the Gujarat Maritime Board. Investigations revealed that Langa exploited his position as a journalist to obtain government documents and later passed them to others. As per reports, Langa faces charges under Sections 303(2), 306, 316(5), 61(2) of the Indian Penal Code and Sections 7(A), 8(1), 12, 13(1), and 12(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act. It is anticipated that the police may seek his custody in this case as well.

49 drugs, including calcium and Vitamin D3 tablets, fail quality tests by Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation

OpIndia Staff
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49 drugs, including calcium and Vitamin D3 tablets, fail quality tests by Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation

On 24th October, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) released its monthly alerts for substandard drugs. According to CDSCO’s report, drug samples were collected from sales and distribution points and sent for analysis as part of the monthly action taken against sub-par quality drugs. For September, 49 drugs failed testing and were included on the list.

This list includes Calcium Tablets Life Max by Cancer Laboratories, Paracetamol Paediatric by Vivimed Labs Limited, Cetiriz-P Syrup by Arrow Pharma, among others. Two batches each of Hepathin 5000 Injection and Monocef-O 200 also failed the tests. The list below only contains drug and company names, not batch numbers.

  • Metronidazole Tablets I.P. 400 mg by Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd.
  • Vomitel (Domperidon Suspension) by Rainbow Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd.
  • Oxytocin Injection I.P. 5 IU/1 ml by Pushkar Pharma
  • SPAMET GM 2 Tablets (Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg SR & Glimepiride 2 mg Tablets IP) by Swiss Biotech Parenterals
  • Diclofenac Sodium Tablets IP 50 mg by Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd.
  • Calcium Gluconate Injection I.P. 10 ml by Martin & Brown Biosciences Pvt. Ltd.
  • Oxytocin Injection I.P. 1 ml by Radiant Parenterals Ltd.
  • Ceftriaxone Injection I.P. 1g by Zee Laboratories Ltd.
  • Gentamycin Sulphate Injection I.P. 40 mg/ml by Zee Laboratories Ltd.
  • Stimin (Glycopyrrolate 0.5 mg / 5ml + Neostigmine methysulfate Injection 2.5 mg / 5ml) by Celon Laboratories Pvt. Ltd.
  • Nozal Cream (Ketoconazole Cream BP) by Olcare Laboratories
  • Hepathin 5000 Injection 5 ml / vial (Heparin Sodium Injection IP 5000 IU / 5ml) by Protech Telelinks
  • Gentagain (Gentamicin Injection I.P.) by Regain Laboratories
  • Glipizide Tablets I.P. 5 mg by Zee Laboratories Ltd.
  • Omerin-D Capsules (Omeprazole & Domperidone Capsules IP) by Renowned Life Sciences
  • Chill Acid MPS (Dried Aluminium Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide & Activated Dimethicone Suspension) by Devout Nord (I) Ltd.
  • Nimuvent-P Tablets (Nimesulide & Paracetamol Tablets) by Innova Captab Limited
  • Cipronir 500 (Ciprofloxacin Tablets IP 500 mg) by Celebrity Biopharma Ltd.
  • SMB OZ Tablets (Ofloxacin & Ornidazole Tablets IP) by Saint Michael Biotech
  • Calcium 500 mg and Vitamin D3 250 IU Tablets IP by Life Max Cancer Laboratories
  • LOMJAN (Loperamide Hydrochloride Tablets I.P. 2 mg) by Arya Pharmaceuticals
  • Glimepiride Tablets IP 1 mg by Life Max Cancer Laboratories
  • Fexofenadine Hydrochloride Tablets I.P. by Signature Phytochemical Industries
  • Glimepiride Tablets I.P. 2 mg by Life Max Cancer Laboratories
  • PAN 40 (Pantoprazole Gastro-resistant Tablets IP) by Alkem Health Science
  • Monocef-O 200 (Cefpodoxime Tablets IP 200 mg) by Aristo Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.
  • Clavam 625 (Amoxicillin And Potassium Clavulanate Tablets I.P.) by Alkem Health Science
  • Fexofenadine Hydrochloride Tablets IP by Oscar Remedies Pvt. Ltd.
  • CIPRODAC 500 (Ciprofloxacin Tablets IP 500 mg) by Cadila Pharmaceuticals Limited
  • Ramipril Tablets I.P. 2.5 mg by Relief Biotech Pvt. Ltd.
  • Compound Sodium Lactate Injection I.P. (RL) by Paschim Banga Pharmaceuticals
  • PHENERGAN (Promethazine Hydrochloride Injection I.P.) by Nitin Lifesciences Ltd.
  • Paracetamol Paediatric Oral Suspension IP by Vivimed Labs Limited
  • Spisam Gel (Aluminum Hydroxide, Simethicone & Magnesium Hydroxide Suspension) by Aan Pharma Pvt. Ltd.
  • P-Genta Injection (Gentamicin Sulphate Injection IP) by Primus Pharmaceuticals
  • Flucse – 150 (Fluconazole Tablets IP 150 mg) by Cureza Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.
  • Bisalax Tablets (Bisacodyl Tablets I.P.) by Karnani Pharmaceutical Pvt. Ltd.
  • Citrize-P (Cetirizine Dihydrochloride Syrup) by Arrow Pharma
  • Celofos 1000 Injection (Ifosfamide for Injection IP with Mesna Injection) by Kwality Pharmaceuticals Limited
  • ZERODOL-SP Tablets (Aceclofenac 100 mg, Serratiopeptidase 15 mg & Paracetamol 325 mg Tablets) by Ipca Laboratories Ltd.
  • UTROCLEAR-OZ Solution (Ofloxacin and Ornidazole Intra Uterine Solution Vet.) by Ramson Remedies
  • Nopion 150 Tablets (Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended Release Tablets USP) by Digital Vision
  • COUGH-DM Cough Syrup (Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, Chlorpheniramine Maleate and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Syrup) by Sunfine Healthcare
  • KEFZONE-S INJECTION (Cefoperazone and Sulbactam for Injection) by ANG Lifesciences India Ltd.
  • CASIDTAZ P Injection (Piperacillin and Tazobactam Injection IP) by ANG Lifesciences India Ltd.
  • NUROFENS-2500 Injection (Methylcobalamin Injection 2500 mcg) by Systole Remedies Pvt. Ltd.
  • Torverge-10 Tablets (Torsemide Tablets IP 10 mg) by J.M. Laboratories

These 49 drugs did not meet the required quality standards out of a total of 3,000 drug samples collected by CDSCO. Additionally, CDSCO has flagged four medicines manufactured by fake companies as spurious. These drugs are Urimax-D batch number GH30334, Shelcal 500 batch number GDCD0581, Pan-D batch number 2344507, and Deca-Durabolin 25 Injection batch number G20620.

For these drugs under investigation, CDSCO wrote, “The actual manufacturer (as per label claim) has informed that the impugned batch of the product has not been manufactured by them and that it is a spurious drug. The product is purported to be spurious; however, the same is subject to the outcome of the investigation.”

The batches of non-standard drugs have been recalled as per CDSCO guidelines to ensure public safety. CDSCO chief Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi said that only around 1% of all drugs tested failed to meet the quality benchmarks, indicating that stringent monitoring measures are effectively controlling substandard drug production.

List of state drugs that failed the test

  • Neurotem-NT (Pregabalin) by Catasta Pharmaceuticals (Jammu and Kashmir)
  • Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets IP 500 mg by Agron Remedies Pvt Ltd (Jammu and Kashmir)
  • Loperamide Hydrochloride Tablets IP by Karnani Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd. (Jammu and Kashmir)
  • Floxages-OZ (Ofloxacin and Ornidazole Tablets IP) by Suraksha Pharma Pvt. Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Wintel 40 Tablets by Himalaya Meditek Pvt. Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Moxica-250 (Amoxicillin Dispersible Tablets IP 250 mg) by Indica Pharmaceuticals (P) Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Frusemide Injection IP 20 mg by Nestor Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Cloxacillin Sodium Capsules IP 250 mg by Nestor Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Fluorometholone Eye Drops IP by Cotec Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Panlib 40 Tablets by Himalaya Meditek Pvt. Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • B-Cidal 625 by VADSP Pharmaceuticals (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Flavoshine (Trypsin, Bromelain & Rutoside Trihydrate Tablets) by Tiruvision Medcare (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • C Mont LC Kid (Montelukast & Leveocetirizine Dihydrochloride syrup) by Cian Healthcare Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Yogaraja Guggulu Tablet by Oushadhi, The Pharmaceutical Corporation (IM) (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Telmisartan Tablets IP 40 mg by Kerala Medical Services Corporation Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Pantoprazole Injection BP 40 mg by Kerala Medical Services Corporation Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Glimepiride Tablets IP by Kerala Medical Services Corporation Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Cough Syrup by Kerala Medical Services Corporation Ltd. (Thiruvananthapuram)

State drug alerts are more region-specific. The state drug control authority may issue it, sometimes with CDSCO involvement, for drugs found to be substandard or potentially harmful within that particular state. The action is mostly limited to the region specified. Not all states sends the data to CDSCO on monthly basis.

Previous alerts by CDSCO warned consumers about Paracetamol, Antacid Pan-D, Levocetrizine and more

In September this year, CDSCO identified over 50 drugs as “Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) Alert” in its latest monthly report. More than 50 drugs, including those used to treat fever, diabetes, hypertension, vitamins, calcium D3 supplements, bacterial infections, and acid reflux, failed quality tests undertaken by India’s drugs regulatory authority.

CDSCO has released two lists of pharmaceuticals that did not pass quality checks: one “Not of Standard Quality” naming 48 popular drugs and another with answers from pharmaceutical companies whose products failed to meet the safety standards. Companies producing negatively rated pharmaceuticals include Hetero Drugs, Alkem Laboratories, Hindustan Antibiotics Limited (HAL), Karnataka Antibiotics & Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Meg Lifesciences, and Pure & Cure Healthcare. In addition, Hindustan Antibiotic Limited (HAL) manufactured the anti-stomach infection medicine Metronidazole, which did not meet the quality criteria.

Hindus were target of Lathicharge, stone pelting, and bullets; Islamists didn’t even get a scratch: Eyewitness of Bahraich violence

राहुल पाण्डेय
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Hindus were target of Lathicharge, stone pelting, and bullets; Islamists didn’t even get a scratch: Eyewitness of Bahraich violence

On Sunday (13th October 2024), an Islamist mob killed Ram Gopal Mishra in Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh. The same mob also vandalised the idols of Maa Durga being taken for immersion, protesting against which, many devotees were injured.

After this anti-Hindu violence, the violent mob played the victim card and the leftists started portraying the Muslim community as the victim. OpIndia’s investigation revealed that the real victims of the violence are Hindus.

It has also been claimed that the attack on the devotees was instigated from the mosque. However, the Bahraich administration continues to deny this claim of many eyewitnesses.

This violence took place in Maharajganj market, which falls in Hardi police station area of ​​​​Bharaich. Maruti Nandan Tripathi, an eyewitness of this violence, spoke to OpIndia. Maruti told us that when the violence started, he was watching the fair at the immersion site, about 1 km away from the incident site. As soon as he got information about the attack on the phone, he reached Maharajganj market. At that time, the angry Hindus were demanding action from the police administration against those who pelted stones on the idol and forcibly stopped the DJ.

Maruti Nandan said that the administration was not paying any attention to the complaints of the devotees, due to which the tension was increasing. During the protest, stones were again pelted on Hindus in the presence of the police, due to which some people started beating the tin shed of Abdul Hamid’s house. Then, Ram Gopal Mishra got angry and he went to the roof of Abdul Hamid. Here, after taking out the green flag, he was shot dead.

Earlier, Islamists had uprooted the flag of Hindus. Maruti Nandan Tripathi says that apart from stone pelting and attack on Durga idols, Islamists had uprooted the flags of Hindus installed along the way. Some people were coming down with the unconscious body of Ram Gopal Mishra from Abdul Hamid house, then bullets were fired, the video of which is also available. No vehicle could be found to take the injured Ram Gopal to the hospital. Some people were taking him in an e-rickshaw, when its battery died halfway through. The remaining distance from there was covered by bike. Ram Gopal was declared dead on arrival in the hospital.

Most of the devotees left the idol alone and went to the hospital with Ram Gopal Mishra. The administration lathicharged the remaining Hindus. The Islamist mob took advantage of the stampede caused by this lathicharge. Maruti Nandan further tells that many Islamists came out of their houses and broke the idols on the road. At the same time, many people attacked the devotees in groups. Taking advantage of the lathicharge by the police, an Islamist mob chased the devotees for a long distance.

The order to attack the procession was received from the mosque

Maruti Nandan Tripathi’s allegation about the announcements from the mosque present at the site of the incident, is diametrically opposite to the claims of Bahraich police. Maruti Nandan says that the attack on the devotees of Maa Durga was incited from the mosque. According to Maruti Nandan, when Ram Gopal climbed the roof of Abdul Hamid’s house, it was announced from the mic of the mosque, “Everyone gather. We will not let him go. Beat him.” The violent mob that came out after this even included children and old people.

Eyewitness Maruti Nandan further tells us that he saw most of the Islamist mob on the roofs as well. They were apparently throwing stones and bottles. They came out of the houses and broke any vehicle going to the immersion procession.

We don’t know what happened to our idols

While talking to us, Maruti Nandan Tripathi became emotional. He said that he does not know what happened to the idols of his beloved Maa Durga, which he was going to immerse with devotion, after the attack. He says that there were more than half a dozen such idols which got stuck in the middle due to the attack by the Islamist mob. Then the devotees fled from there due to the lathicharge by the police. Maruti Nandan does not know what happened to those idols later.

In his statement, Maruti Nandan further says that he had heard that later the administration had the idols of Maa Durga immersed. However, Maruti Nandan was very hurt by this kind of attack on his religious sentiments. Maruti Nandan has also demanded from the government to pay attention to the family of Ram Gopal Mishra.

The shop is just a sham, the real work is smuggling across the border

The main accused in Maharajganj violence is Abdul Hamid and his family. Abdul Hamid works as a jeweler but Maruti Nandan considers it to be just a sham. Maruti Nandan claims that Abdul Hamid’s family has long been involved in crimes like smuggling from the Nepal border. Referring to his elder son Pintu, Maruti Nandan says that the police from Nepal have come several times to arrest him.

Maruti Nandan further says that Sarfaraz, who shot Ram Gopal, also used to often indulge in hooliganism in Maharajganj and its surrounding areas. This entire family is basically accused of smuggling weapons from the Nepal border. Maruti Nandan claims that the system that Abdul Hamid has created cannot be created from a jeweler’s shop.

It was the Hindus who received the blows of lathi and bullets, no one from the other side got even a scratch

Maruti Nandan Tripathi describes the incident of Sunday (13th October) as completely one-sided. He says that during the violence, both the Islamist mob and the police force attacked the devotees together. While the police were lathicharging, the Islamist mob was throwing stones, bottles and bullets. Maruti Nandan told us that more than half a dozen people were injured and one who died due to the violence were also from the Hindu community. He claims that not even a single Muslim got a scratch because the police showed all its force only on the devotees.

OpIndia decided to investigate these claims of Maruti Nandan. We reached Nathuapur, another village affected by the violence on October 13, which is about 5 km from Maharajganj. Here we saw Muslim families sitting comfortably outside their homes and talking in the Hindu-dominated village. During this time we met Mohammad Kaleem who told in Awadhi language, “Humka to koi parisam nahin hai. Maris-peetis koi nahin.” (We have no problem. No one beat me up).

7 Punjab Police personnel including 2 DSPs suspended over interview of Lawrence Bishnoi in prison

ANI
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7 Punjab Police personnel including 2 DSPs suspended over interview of Lawrence Bishnoi in prison

Seven policemen of the Punjab Police, including Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) Gursher Sandhu and Sammer Vaneet, have been suspended in connection with an interview given by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi while he was in prison.

The suspension was ordered by the Punjab Home Affairs Department, following directives from the Governor of Punjab.

The order read, “In pursuance of the orders passed on 21.12.2023, Shri Prabodh Kumar, I.P.S. Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed under the leadership of the Special Director General of Police, Punjab State Human Rights Commission. Apple FIR No. 01 Bhadi 05.01.2024 A/P 384, 201, 202, 506, 116 Bhadi 120 Ghee, Bhaspti. Was. m. Section 46 of The Prisons Act, 1894 (later replaced with Section 52A(1) of The Prisons (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2011), Pulim Matemath Matet Karayam, S.A.S. The report was presented in the city. According to it, on the night of 03-04.09.2022, accused Lawrence Bishnoi, lodged under the reference of CIA, Kharar, gave an interview through video conference to a shared TV channel.”

The SIT report identified several officers for negligence in their duties related to the incident involving gangster Lawrence Bishnoi’s interview from prison. Those named include Gursher Singh, PPS, DSP of the 9th PAP in Amritsar, who was the then DSP (Investigations) in SAS Nagar, and Sammer Vaneet, PPS, DSP of the Economic Offences Wing in SAS Nagar.

Additionally, Sub Inspector Reena from the CIA in Kharar, Sub Inspectors Jagatpal Jangu and Shaganjit Singh from the Anti-Gangster Task Force, ASI Mukhtiar Singh, the then Duty Officer, and Head Constable Om Parkash, the then Night MHC of the CIA in Kharar, were also cited in the report for their roles in the matter.

Meanwhile, on Friday, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for the arrest of Anmol Bishnoi, the brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Anmol is charged in two NIA cases registered in 2022. Anmol is also wanted in connection with a shooting incident that occurred outside Bollywood actor Salman Khan’s residence earlier this year.

Authorities are urging anyone with information on Anmol Bishnoi’s whereabouts to come forward. He has been linked to various criminal activities and is considered a significant figure in organised crime. Authorities believe that his apprehension could provide crucial insights into broader networks involved in illicit operations across the region. As the NIA intensifies its efforts to track down Anmol, officials are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in his capture.

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

Farmers in Punjab announce roadblock over delayed paddy procurement, FIRs on stubble burning

OpIndia Staff
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Farmers in Punjab announce roadblock over delayed paddy procurement, FIRs on stubble burning

On Saturday, 26th October, farmers in Punjab will stage a one-day protest starting at 1 PM against the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government of Punjab for several reasons, including the delay in the procurement of the paddy crop. The farmers have decided to block roads across Punjab during the strike, which will lead to traffic disruptions amid the festival season.

Speaking to ANI, farmer leader Sarwan Singh said, “As far as today’s program is concerned it is due to the non-procurement of paddy…Badrukhan and Sangrur national highways are where the program will be held and the timing is 1 pm, we will block it for unlimited time…”

Speaking to the media, the Chairman of Bhartiya Kisan Union (Krantikari) Punjab, Surjeet Singh Phul, said, “On 26th October, we will stage a road blockade at four key points, beginning at 1 pm.” Phul added that roadblocks, or “chakka jam,” have been strategically planned at one location each in the Sangrur, Moga, Phagwara, and Batala districts. Furthermore, farmers may continue the roadblock indefinitely if needed.

Speaking to news agency ANI, Surjeet Singh Phul said the “chakka jam” will be organised by both forums at four points in Punjab for an indefinite period. He added that the protest has been announced primarily due to the delayed paddy procurement.

According to government officials, only 10% of paddy has been lifted so far out of the 11.10 lakh tonnes that reached the grain market in Punjab in the first 15 days of the procurement season, which began on 1st October. Punjab farmers had a bumper paddy crop, but the slow procurement process by officials has angered the farmers.

The Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, has reached out to the central government to step in and provide assistance for paddy procurement. A meeting on the delay in paddy procurement in Punjab was held in Delhi, chaired by Union Food Minister Prahlad Joshi, Minister of State for Food Ravneet Singh Bittu, and CM Mann.

The delay in procurement is not the only reason for which the farmers in Punjab are protesting. They are also angered by the penalties imposed on them due to stubble burning. Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) spokesperson, Rakesh Tikait, said in a statement that the government should provide the farmers with an alternative to stubble burning.

He said, “The government is taking action (on farmers) if stubble is burnt, and in Haryana if any farmer burns stubble, his or her produce will not be sold (at mandis) for two years. Tell me about the technology by which wheat can be grown without burning stubble. The government should explain what a farmer should do about the stubble. The protest is by Punjab farmers only for now,” while speaking to ANI.

Notably, on 21st October, farmers in Punjab urged the state government to find a permanent solution for handling stubble and claimed they are being compelled to burn it due to lack of alternatives.

Slamming the AAP-led Punjab government on delayed paddy procurement and farmer protest, Union Minister Bittu said that the state has failed to adequately support the farmers and has instead resorted to filing FIRs against them.

He said, “AAP has failed in Punjab and they have not made any arrangements for the farmers. Now they are filing FIRs against the farmers…Delhi government is pressurizing the Punjab government to file FIRs against the farmers…” On BJP expelling former Punjab MLA Satkar Kaur from the party for 6 years, he says, “There is no place for people like these in the BJP…Why was she not arrested earlier? Why are they doing pick and choose in the run-up to By-elections in Punjab?…”

Meet Roshni Kushal Jaiswal: Congress leader on the run after assaulting BJP worker in viral video, peddled fake news, questioned ‘sexuality’ of PM Modi

OpIndia Staff
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Meet Roshni Kushal Jaiswal: Congress leader on the run after assaulting BJP worker in viral video, peddled fake news, questioned ‘sexuality’ of PM Modi

On Thursday (24th October), a local court in Varanasi city of Uttar Pradesh issued a non-bailable warrant against Congress leader Roshni Kushal Jaiswal, who had been absconding since last month.

Roshni, who serves as the National Secretary of the Indian Youth Congress as per her X (formerly Twitter) bio, was caught on camera assaulting a BJP worker in full public glare. She was accompanied by her brother and her husband.

In his order, Civil Judge Yugal Shambhu issued a non-bailable warrant against Roshni Kushal Jaiswal under Section 84 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

Order issued by Varanasi court

A team of police visited her house in the Bhelpur neighbourhood of Varanasi and attached a copy of the court order on the wall.

Roshni Kushal Jaiswal and her family members were booked under the following Sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita:

  • 3(5) – criminal act is done by several persons in furtherance of the common intention
  • 76 – Assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe
  • 109(1) – Attempt to murder
  • 115(2) -punishment for voluntarily causing hurt to another person
  • 117(4) – grievous hurt of a person is caused by a group of five or more person
  • 191(2) – unlawful assembly guilty of rioting
  • 324(2) – punishment for ordinary mischief 
  • 333 – house trespass after preparation for hurt, assault or wrongful restraint
  • 351(2) – punishment for criminal intimidation
  • 352 – intentional insult with the intent to provoke a breach of peace

The Background of the case

On 15th September this year, Roshni Kushal Jaiswal was seen physically attacking a BJP worker named Rajesh Kumar in Premchand Nagar Colony in the Pandeypur locality of Varanasi.

The victim, dressed in yellow, was restrained by two goons while the Congress leader and her husband took turns to slap the victim. During the attack, they also manhandled Rajesh’s wife and daughter.

‘Journalist’ Samar Raj, who works for propaganda portal Bol Hindustan, shared the video clip and alleged that the BJP worker used to give ‘rape threats’ to women on social media. He had not furnished any screenshots of rape threats, or social media interaction as proof for his claims.

Nonetheless, Roshni was cheered on by her supporters and fans on social media. Rajesh’s wife later filed a complaint with the police and staged a protest to demand the arrest of the culprits.

While the husband and brother of the Congress leader were promptly arrested, Roshni managed to escape. She has been on the run ever since.

After a Varanasi court issued a non-bailable warrant against her for absconding, she took to social media to play the ‘victim card.’

Roshni Kushal Jaiswal plays victim card, Congress shows support

In a 3-minute long video, Roshni Kushal Jaiswal acknowledged that she has been on the run from the law enforcement authorities for 40 days after the latter filed a First Information Report (FIR).

She attempted to rationalise her assault on the BJP worker by asking whether a severe punishment should be meted to her for slapping a ‘rape accused.’ Again, there is no proof that the victim Rajesh Kumar is a rape accused.

The Congress has thrown its weight behind the absconding party leader, who is wanted for the assault of a BJP worker.

“This painful story is from Varanasi @roshnikushal ‘s only crime is that she raised her voice against BJP leader Rajesh Singh who threatened to rape her. Husband, brother, 5 others are in jail for 40 days, orders issued to confiscate their house,” tweeted the official handle of Jammu and Kashmir Congress Sevadal.

Controversies of Roshni Kushal Jaiswal

In February this year, Roshni Kushal Jaiswal was seen posting a derogatory cartoon, depicting a rape victim, being escorted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

The duo was dressed as Lord Ram and his brother Laxman while the private parts of the victim were covered with tricolour.

Screengrab of the tweet by Roshni Kumar Jaiswal

The National Secretary of the Indian Youth Congress also posted objectionable comments about BJP leader Smriti Irani and the wife of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dy Chandrachud.

Screengrab of the tweet by Roshni Kushal Jaiswal
Screengrab of the tweet by Roshni Kushal Jaiswal

In July this year, Roshni Kushal Jaiswal was seen peddling fake news to portray the Congress party in a positive light. She had falsely claimed that the State-owned telecom operator BSNL was making huge profits during the UPA era. Her lie was quickly debunked by journalist Vijay Patel.

In a video clip that has now surfaced on social media, she was seen peddling the perpetual Muslim ‘victim card’. Roshni Kushal Jaiswal was thereafter grilled by journalist Sushant Sinha.

“According to you, Hindus do Kaand (carry out big incidents), Muslims do things only by mistake. What is this?” he questioned. The Congress propagandist was taken aback by his line of questioning.

In one video, the Congress leader was seen casting aspersions on the sexuality of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for being a sanyasi.

“One who couldn’t prove to be a man (Purush) in marriage is being worshipped as a great man (Mahapurush) by andhbhakts. So, is he a man, a great man or none?” Roshni Kushal Jaiswal asked her followers.

Israel announces completion of its retaliatory airstrikes against Iran; over 100 Israeli fighter jets bombarded Iranian military sites

OpIndia Staff
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Israel announces completion of its retaliatory airstrikes against Iran; over 100 Israeli fighter jets bombarded Iranian military sites

On Saturday, 26th October, Israel announced the completion of its retaliatory airstrikes against Iran. “I can now confirm that we have concluded the Israeli response to Iran’s attacks against Israel. We conducted targeted and precise strikes on military targets in Iran — thwarting immediate threats to the State of Israel”, IDF Spokesperson RAdm. Daniel Hagari said.

Earlier, Israel conducted airstrikes targeting sensitive military sites in Iran. Over 100 Israeli Defense Forces aircrafts flew to Iran to bomb military locations in response to Iran’s missile attack earlier this month. According to a Reuters report, Iranian media reported three waves of explosions lasting more than two hours in Tehran (Iran’s capital) and at nearby military installations.

According to IDF, fighter jets, refuelers and spy planes, took part in the strikes. They traveled 1,600 KM from Israel to conduct the strikes. The aircrafts returned safely after the complex operation.

Earlier this month, on 1st October, Iran fired around 200 missiles at Israel, marking the second direct attack on Israel in the last six months. Since then, Israel’s retaliation was anticipated, putting the Middle East on edge.

The IDF issued a statement on social media, saying, “In response to months of continuous attacks from the regime in Iran against the State of Israel—right now, the Israel Defense Forces are conducting precise strikes on military targets in Iran. The regime in Iran and its proxies in the region have been relentlessly attacking Israel since October 7th—on seven fronts—including direct attacks from Iranian soil. Like every other sovereign country in the world, the State of Israel has the right and the duty to respond. Our defensive and offensive capabilities are fully mobilised. We will do whatever is necessary to defend the State of Israel and the people of Israel.”

Israel has already eliminated the top leadership of the Iran-backed terrorist organisation Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iran’s missile attack was a retaliation move of Israeli strikes on Hezbollah operatives and leadership. Israel had assured retaliation at the right time. Hezbollah has been supporting Hamas, the Palestinian terrorist outfit that conducted a terrorist attack on Israel on 7th October 2023, leaving over 1,300 Israelis and foreign nationals dead. Hamas also took several hundred hostages, over 100 of whom are still in Gaza, with Hamas repeatedly refusing to release them. Following the attack, Israel started a military operation to wipe out Hamas. Israel-Hamas war has since entered its 13th month.

The US was informed about the strikes beforehand

According to Reuters, the United States was notified about the strikes beforehand, but the US was not involved in the operation. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant spoke to US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin shortly after the strikes began. The US has reportedly convinced Israel to calibrate the airstrike to ensure the war between the two nations does not escalate. However, in the event of retaliation from Iran, the US has assured it will provide aid as required. The decision included deploying the US military’s THAAD anti-missile defences in Israel along with around 100 US soldiers to operate them.

Amid the ongoing strike in Iran, United States President Joe Biden issued a statement warning that the US would not support airstrikes by Israel on nuclear sites in Iran. The US further asked Israel to opt for attacking oil fields in Iran instead.

Iran downplays Israeli attack

Iranian media has downplayed the attack, suggesting that the air defence systems reacted as they should. A military spokesperson was quoted by Iranian state TV as saying that the explosions heard in Tehran were linked to “air defence systems reacting to efforts by the Zionist regime (Israel) to attack three locations outside the city of Tehran.”

IRNA reported that anti-aircraft guns were heard in central Tehran. According to the Iranian Fars news agency, several military bases in the west and southwest of Tehran were targeted by Israel. Several other news agencies and media houses in Iran claimed the military bases attacked by Israel were not damaged. According to Syrian state news agency SANA, Israel also targeted some military sites in central and southern parts of Syria early on Saturday, and missiles launched by Israel were intercepted by Syrian air defence.

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