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Israel hasn’t hit Iran back for the missile attack yet, because US is trying to negotiate a ‘compensation deal’ to scale down conflict: Report

Rukma Rathore
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Israel hasn’t hit Iran back for the missile attack yet, because US is trying to negotiate a ‘compensation deal’ to scale down conflict: Report

The barbaric attack by Hamas on innocent civilians in the Jewish country on 7th October of last year was the catalyst for the escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict, which has embroiled the entire Middle East in fierce warfare for many decades. Notably, other Islamic nations including Iran, which is known to have close ties with the Hamas leadership and Lebanon among others also jumped in which only intensified the violence and raised concerns that the dispute would spill over into other parts of the world.

A recent tipping point in the struggle transpired when Iran launched its largest-ever assault on its regional adversary, on the night of 1st October, with a barrage of almost 200 ballistic missiles. Iran claimed that the strikes were intended for military bases, but Israel’s aerial defences, supported by the United States and the United Kingdom thwarted the attack and prevented any major loss of property and life except for one Palestinian worker named Sameh Al-Asali who was killed in Jericho and four other Palestinians were wounded by shrapnel from the same rocket.

The alarm system and Israel’s robust network of bomb shelters all over residential areas prevented major loss of life.

Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson, providing details about the assault stated, “Iran launched a large-scale attack of over 180 ballistic missiles directly from Iranian soil at the State of Israel. There were a small number of hits in the centre of Israel and some other hits in southern Israel. The majority of the incoming missiles were intercepted by Israel and a defensive coalition led by the United States.”

Expectedly, an incensed Israel pledged that the Islamic Republic would pay heavily for its misadventure. “Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it,” vowed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on X (formerly Twitter). Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari also called the incident a “severe and dangerous escalation.” He declared, “Iran’s attack is a severe and dangerous escalation. There will be consequences. Our defensive and offensive capabilities are at the highest levels of readiness. Our operational plans are ready. We will respond wherever, whenever, and however we choose, in accordance with the directive of the government of Israel.”

The world has been awaiting Israel’s response in trepidation ever since, however, the latter has not acted upon its promise as of yet and there might be an interesting reason for the delay.

The US offers “compensation” to forgo attacking specific targets in Iran to a reluctant Israel

President Joe Biden’s administration has offered Israel a “compensation package” if it refrains from hitting specific Iranian targets, in retribution for Tehran’s attack, as per a report in Jerusalem Post. According to the report, US officials offered their Israeli counterparts “extensive diplomatic backing and additional military aid” in exchange for the sparing of some targets within Iranian territory. This package was put forth during discussions regarding the ‘optimal way’ to respond to the strikes, between officials from the two nations.

However, the lucrative offer doesn’t appear to sway the Israelis who reaffirmed their commitment to protecting their nation and its people. “We consider the United States to be our ally and are always ready to listen. At the same time, we will do all that’s necessary to protect the citizens of Israel and the security of Israel,” expressed an Israeli official.

Jerusalem is reportedly preparing a major attack on the Iranian regime that could aim at nuclear facilities and oil fields. Interestingly, President Biden has voiced his opposition to both. Israel pointed out that it will respond in a way that “will cause Iran to reconsider its desire to enter into a drawn-out conflict” because it is not interested in a protracted war of attrition with the Islamic Republic.

President Joe Biden was also questioned whether the US would support an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear sites. “The answer is no,” he replied after which Donald Trump mocked him and stated, “They asked him, what do you think about Iran, would you hit Iran? And he goes, ‘As long as they don’t hit the nuclear stuff.’ That’s the thing you want to hit, right?” He then asked, “Isn’t that what you’re supposed to hit? I mean, it’s the biggest risk we have, nuclear weapons. When they asked him that question, the answer should have been, hit the nuclear first and worry about the rest later.”

On 9th October, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is expected to embark on an “urgent, 24-hour visit” to the United States, where he will hold meetings with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin among other prominent officials. “It’s important for us to hold discussions on strategic cooperation between our countries and defence cooperation in light of the threats posed by Iran and its proxies,” he mentioned and added, “We are powerful when we are aligned, and I want to make sure of it.”

However, Yoav Gallant asserted, “Israel will respond to the unprecedented Iranian attack in the manner of our choosing, and at the time and place of our choosing.” He further highlighted that all options are open in terms of potential targets.

On the other hand, the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization grounded all airlines operating within and outside of the Islamic Republic for almost nine hours on the night of 6th October over “operational restrictions,” according to state-run media. The flights were halted soon after Yoav Gallant warned, “Israel is powerful in defence and offence, and this will be reflected in the manner of our choosing, at the time and place of our choosing.” “Whoever thinks that by trying to harm Israel they will deter us from taking action, should take a look at (our operational achievements) in Gaza and in Beirut,” he further declared.

Pertinently, the US and the IDF have been corresponding about further action following the attack and United States Central Command (CENTCO) Chief General Michael Kurilla is at present in Israel for the same. The most remarkable part of the ongoing discussions is the package which includes a total guarantee of comprehensive diplomatic protection as well as a weapons package and Israel’s resistance to accept the offer.

Although the US appears to be keen to prevent any escalation that would arise from an Israeli attack on Iran’s vital assets, the Jewish state appears to prioritize security and safety in this difficult situation. Israel hasn’t, however, fulfilled its vow of vengeance, yet.

Israel killed Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah

It is important to remember that the current crisis emerged after the death of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the supremo of the Lebanon-based terrorist group Hezbollah which also has a political presence, in an underground bunker in Beirut on 27th September. Many senior leaders of the outfit, which is backed by Iran were eliminated in the attacks. Israeli Defense Forces launched multiple bunker-buster bombs at Hezbollah’s underground bunkers in the southern Beirut suburb of Dahiyeh, in the operation called “New Order.”

Hezbollah’s top leadership met in the organization’s headquarters, which are hidden beneath residential buildings, to discuss potential assaults on Israel in view of increasing hostility along the Israel-Lebanon border. Approximately 85 “bunker-buster” bombs, often referred to as “ground penetration munition,” were reported to have been utilised in the operation. Furthermore, just days earlier, thousands of pagers used by the terrorist outfit Hezbollah detonated all throughout Lebanon on 17th September which led to the deaths of at least eight members and 2,750 reported injuries out of which 200 were critical. The events led to major anger in the Islamic world, especially in Iran after which it attacked Israel.

‘Constantly posted provocative tweets inciting Muslims to attack Dasna Devi Temple’: FIR filed in Ghaziabad against Alt News’ Mohammed Zubair

OpIndia Staff
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‘Constantly posted provocative tweets inciting Muslims to attack Dasna Devi Temple’: FIR filed in Ghaziabad against Alt News’ Mohammed Zubair

An FIR has been filed against Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair following the attack on Dasna Devi Temple in Ghaziabad last week, alleging that Zubair and two other Muslim leaders, including Arshad Madani and Asaduddin Owaisi, tried to incite Muslims around the country and got local Muslims to get outsiders to destroy the ShivShakti Dham in Dasna.

The FIR was filed based on a complaint lodged by BJP leader Dr Udita Tyagi on October 7 at the Web City police station in Ghaziabad after the temple attack on October 5 by a mob of Islamists that had tried to lay siege to the Shiv Shakti Dham after a video shared by Zubair had gone viral on the internet.

Zubair complaint Ghaziabad
A complaint was filed against Mohammed Zubair alleging incitement of Muslim mobs to attack Dasna Temple

In her complaint, Ms Tyagi alleged that the October 5 attack was a preplanned conspiracy by Islamists against the Shiv Shakti Dham in Dasna.

She also alleged that Owaisi, Zubair, Madani, and other Muslim leaders have been constantly instigating the public to kill Yati Narsinghanand Saraswati. She had asked the police to mark the individuals trying to whip up a communal frenzy and take appropriate action against them. Dr Tyagi has also demanded that Yati Narsinghanand should be released and granted adequate security.

Zubair has been booked under Sections 196, 228, 299, 356(3), and 351(2) of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The FIR mentions that he has been booked on the complaint by Dr Tyagi which states that his continuously provocative tweets instigated Muslims to attack the Dasna Devi Temple, where a large of Islamists had gathered two days back, chanting threatening slogans and pelting stones.

On 4th October, thousands of Islamists took to the streets to protest against Mahant Narsinghanand Saraswati’s remarks on Prophet Muhammad in the village of Sultanpur, Laskar, Haridwar district, Uttarakhand. The protesting Islamists raised slogans such as “Nara-e-Takbir Allah Hu Akbar”, “Fansi Do”, and “Sar Tan Se Juda”.

A similar incident took place in Bulandshahr, where Islamists protested and indulged in stone pelting over remarks made by Dasna Temple Mahant Narsinghanand Saraswati. The incident occurred in the Sikandrabad area. A large number of Islamists gathered outside Hazrat Ali Mosque to protest against Narsinghanand’s statements about Prophet Muhammad.

On October 3, Zubair shared a video of Yati Narsinghanand Saraswati with a sensational claim that the Dasna Temple chief abbot had targeted Prophet Muhammad. 

“One more derogatory and hateful speech by UP Priest Yati Narasinghanand targeting Islam and Prophet Mohammad,” Zubair tweeted, claiming that Narsinghanand was calling for burning the effigies of the Islamic Prophet. Ironically, Zubair, who champions himself as a ‘fact-checker’ committed to exposing “hate mongers”, has so far maintained a deafening silence on disparaging remarks made against Sanatana Dharma by Congress and DMK leaders. 

Before long, other IT cell warriors who routinely share provocative posts, including tweets mocking Hinduism, were also outraged over what they claimed was an ‘unpardonable sin’ committed by Yati Narsighanand Saraswati. Posting inflammatory posts designed to incite violence against Narsinghanand, they claimed that he had spoken against the honour of their beloved prophet and that the police should jail him for committing the “gustakhi” (audacity).

How Zubair’s dog-whistling in the past had led to violence and death of innocent Hindus

It is worth noting that this is not the first time that Zubair has been accused of flaring up communal tensions by inciting Muslim mobs. Earlier in 2022, Zubair dog-whistled Islamists against former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma with an incomplete video from her debate on Times Now, where she stood up against an Islamist who mocked the Shivling discovered at the Gyanvapi controversial structure as a ‘fountain’. Sharma responded with remarks on Prophet Muhammad’s marriage with Ayesha, which was later picked up by Zubair, touching off massive ‘Sar Tan Se Juda’ protests across the country.

While Islamists went on a rampage on the streets in many cities across the country, it was essentially Mohammed Zubair who was responsible for kindling a fire that had gone on to assume uncontrollable proportions. 

It was Zubair’s dog whistle that made a mountain out of a molehill and painted a target behind the back of Nupur Sharma and anyone and everyone who came out in her support.

The ominous hounding of Nupur Sharma prompted many to extend their support to her. Kanhaiya Lal from Udaipur, Umesh Kolhe in Amravati, and many others extended their solidarity with the beleaguered leader, voicing their support for her amid the death threats from Islamists. 

Lal was a marked man the moment he came out in support of Nupur Sharma. Islamists, provoked by Mohammed Zubair, dished out death threats to him for what they considered an unpardonable sin committed against the Prophet. And days later, the Hindu man was killed for something as trivial as just sharing a social media post in support of Nupur Sharma. 

A similar fate befell Umesh Kolhe, a chemist living in Maharashtra’s Amravati, who was murdered by four Muslim assailants while he was returning from his pharmacy on the night of June 22, 2022. Kolhe, too, was murdered for his social media post supporting Nupur Sharma.

Cow slaughtered for ‘Niyaz’: Major breakthrough in Borasad cow slaughter case, police arrest absconding Sadiq, Hasim, and Aslam

OpIndia Staff
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Cow slaughtered for ‘Niyaz’: Major breakthrough in Borasad cow slaughter case, police arrest absconding Sadiq, Hasim, and Aslam

The Borasad police have made a significant breakthrough in the cow slaughter case that occurred on 21st August, coinciding with the day of Rakshabandhan. It has been revealed that the cow was slaughtered for ‘Niyaz’. For those unfamiliar, Niyaz refers to a ritual offering or sacrifice typically performed by the Muslim community. It is part of their religious or communal practices, involving the offering of food, usually meat, which is then distributed among community members.

This is done during special occasions and gatherings. In this instance, a cow was slaughtered on the Hindu festival of Rakshabandhan for some Islamic occasion. The prime suspects in the case, identified as Aslam, Hasim, and Sadiq, had been absconding but have now been arrested by the police.

As per reports, on 21st August, a cow’s head was discovered in a canal near Vanatalav leading to Tekriyapura, which sparked public outrage in the area. According to the police, the absconding accused were apprehended following relentless efforts and technical surveillance. During interrogation, the suspects revealed that they had purchased a cow and slaughtered it near a stable owned by a man named Gosmohammad. The cow’s meat was then taken to Almadina Nagar and used for the Niyaz offering. Subsequently, the accused disposed of the cow’s head and other remains by dumping them in the canal leading to Tekriyapura.

The police employed a combination of human and technical surveillance to track down the main accused in the case. They received a tip-off which led to the arrest of Mohammad Sadiq, alias Lalo Bhathiyaro, Rehmat Khan Pathan from Ashrafi Society, Hasim Mohammad Hanif from Almadina Nagar, and Mohammad Aslam, alias Poori, from the same locality. The suspects will be presented before the court following processing.

Background of the Borasad cow slaughter case

The incident occurred on the sacred day of Rakshabandhan, when a cow’s head was found in a canal near Tekriyapura. The canal supplies drinking and irrigation water to several villages around Borasad. After the discovery, members of the Hindu community protested, as the incident deeply hurt their religious sentiments.

Thousands of Hindus took to the streets in response, presenting a memorandum to the Borasad Mamlatdar (local revenue officer) demanding justice. A large rally of Hindus, chanting slogans like ‘Jai Shri Ram’, urged the authorities to halt cow slaughter in the region. Prominent local Hindu leaders participated in the rally, calling for immediate action to prevent future incidents of cow slaughter.

A complaint was lodged, leading to the police filing an FIR in Borasad cow slaughter case under sections BNS 299 and 325, along with the Animal Protection Act 8(2), against unidentified individuals.

Bangladesh: After Islamists threaten Hindus over Durga Puja celebrations, indigenous Buddhists cancel ‘Kathin Chibar Dan’ festival citing security concerns

OpIndia Staff
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Bangladesh: After Islamists threaten Hindus over Durga Puja celebrations, indigenous Buddhists cancel ‘Kathin Chibar Dan’ festival citing security concerns

The minority population in Bangladesh is subjected to relentless persecution that appears to have no end in sight. After the extremists threatened Hindus over “Durga Puja” celebrations and demanded jizyah (tax paid by non-Muslim populations to their Muslim rulers) from them, the native Buddhist monks in Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) declared that they would not observe “Kathin Chibar Dan” (Kathina Robe Offering) this year due to the current situation and security concerns. The festival is one of the biggest religious celebrations held by the Buddhist community in CHT every year.

The announcement was made on the 6th of October afternoon at Maitri Bouddha Vihar in Rangamati hill, during a press conference. The President of “Parbatya Bhikshu Sangha,” Shraddhalankar Mahathero, stated that the festival will not be celebrated in any temple within the area owing to the prevailing insecurity and uncertainty. The festival was scheduled to be held in the first week of November.

According to the monks, the development transpired due to the growing violence against the minority community. They charged that law enforcement officials had both active and indirect involvement in the violent occurrences that took place in CHT. The monks added that although investigation committees were established, they were never allowed to look into any of the communal attacks.

Shraddhalankar Mahathero recounted recent violent incidents that happened in the Khagrachari and Rangamati hill areas between the 18th to 20th of September and 1st of October, during which settlers plundered, damaged and set fire to hundreds of shops owned by indigenous populations. These attacks resulted in the gruesome deaths of four indigenous people, one of them a student. Furthermore, donation boxes in Buddhist temples were plundered and Buddha statues were desecrated.

The word “Kathin” or difficult is related to the annual religious event known as Kathin Chibar Dan, where Buddhist followers present monks with “Dan” robes, or “Chibar.” These robes are made of cotton and are woven by the devotees over the course of an overnight period. The celebration was first held approximately 2,500 years ago by Bishakha, a nurse to Gautama Buddha. It comes before Probarona Purnima, a celebration marked by the releasing of skylights and signifies the end of a three-month seclusion for monks who meditate inside their monasteries for self-edification and atonement for mankind.

Attacks on Durga puja pandals

Notably, idols of Goddess Durga and other Hindu deities were vandalized at the Rishipara Barwari Puja Mandap and the Manikadi Palpara Barwari Puja Mandap, on 28th September and 1st October respectively, further adding to the continuous wave of attacks against the minority community, particularly Hindus in Bangladesh. The attacks took place in Rajshahi Division’s Sujanagar upazila in the Pabna district.

Five Hindu idols were demolished in the Manikadi Palpara Barwari Puja Mandap, while four idols total were disfigured at the Rishipara Barwari Puja Mandap. Seven idols of Hindu deities were destroyed at the Gopinath Jiur Akhara Durga Puja mandap on 3rd October. Three temples and sixteen idols of Hindu deities in Bangladesh have been targeted in only six days, ahead of the “Durga Puja” celebrations.

At least 205 attacks on Hindu temples, stores and businesses have occurred since the collapse of former prime minister Sheikha Hasina’s government on 5th August, after the months-long anti-quota protest that turned into a regime change operation.

“Jo khila pila de wo dost”: Rajdeep Sardesai’s colleague Rahul Kanwal calls out veteran ‘journalist’ for calling separatist and terror funding accused Er. Rashid his ‘friend’

Shraddha Pandey
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“Jo khila pila de wo dost”: Rajdeep Sardesai’s colleague Rahul Kanwal calls out veteran ‘journalist’ for calling separatist and terror funding accused Er. Rashid his ‘friend’

In a rather embarrassing moment on national television, IndiaToday ‘journalist’ Rajdeep Sardesai was called out by his colleague Rahul Kanwal for calling separatist Engineer Rashid his ‘friend’. On the 6th of October, during the live coverage of the Jammu and Kashmir elections, the IndiaToday anchors and the guests were discussing the possible political outcomes of the J&K assembly elections and subsequent scenarios when Rajdeep Sardesai called Engineer Rashid as his friend.

“Out of 6 to 11, my friend Engineer Rashid has got 8. He is also…” Rajdeep Sardesai said before being interrupted by Rahul Kanwal who asked him why someone who spews venom against India is Sardesai’s friend.

“Why is he your friend? He spews venom against India. Why should he be your friend,” Kanwal asked.

Living up to his character of shamelessly biased ‘journalist’, Rajdeep Sardesai justified his statement about Engineer Rashid and said: “When I use the word political friend I didn’t invite him home for dinner but he has been very warm to me in terms of explaining….”

Meanwhile, Rahul Kanwal said: “Jo khila pilade wo dost [whoever feeds you is your friend].”

Desperate to defend his “friend” remark, Rajdeep Sardesai resorted to lauding Engineer Rashid’s ‘humility’ and how he was impressed with the way Rashid won elections in the past managing to connect with the people.

“I’ve known him [Engineer Rashid] for 20-25 years going back to the late 90s when he actually knocked at my door at 9 pm in Kashmir…he was to me someone who never hid who he was…you could call him soft separatist or separatist is up to you. He was going to contest elections within the constitution of this country. He won 2 elections as an independent and we know that’s not easy in this country. He won an election against a former Chief Minister and Sajjad Lone, again, not easy. I was impressed by his connect with people and that’s what politicians are about. And, when I say friends, I find friends in politicians who connect with people because, through them, I learn about the people…and Engineer Rashid has shown, he has lasted the course…” Sardesai said.

If all politicians who have great connect with people were actually Rajdeep’s friends, he would not have been historically anti-Modi since even in the present political landscape, Narendra Modi remains the most successful and popular political leader.

Another point to consider here is that Rajdeep Sardesai is impressed with Engineer Rashid’s connect with people over the years, but he finds nothing problematic with Kashmiri people, particularly Baramulla voters, connecting with someone who despises India and advocates for Kashmir’s separation from India.

If a separatist, who challenges the sovereignty of India, has succeeded in making a place in the hearts of Kashmiris, it could either be because he is capitalising on prevalent anti-India sentiments or instilling such venomous sentiments in the hearts and minds of local Kashmiris. However, Rajdeep Sardesai feels Engineer Rashid’s political wins are ‘impressive’ and do not necessitate a look into how an anti-India element accused of terror funding, gained ground in Kashmir.

Notably, Abdul Rashid Sheikh, widely known as Engineer Rashid is the founder of the Jammu and Kashmir Awami Ittehad Party. Earlier, he contested Assembly Elections in 2008 and 2014 and stood victorious. He also contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections but could not win. Before joining politics, he was a construction engineer, hence the name Engineer Rashid. In 2019, he was arrested by the National Investigation Agency on the charges of terror funding activities becoming the first recognised leader to be arrested under UAPA. It is alarming that Rajdeep Sardesai chooses to call a terror funding accused his ‘friend’ and gets exhilarated over the chances of Rashid’s party winning 6 to 11 seats, merely because he has been warm to him or perhaps fed him free food.

Further, why would a separatist, a terror funding accused like Engineer Rashid not be warm to someone like Rajdeep Sardesai who is often seen pandering to them and toeing their narrative? Remember, even Hafiz Saeed lauded Barkha Dutt as “acche log”, maybe the 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind offers a platter of Nihari or Haleem to devour and Sardesai will humanise him too.

When Rajdeep Sardesai called mafias Atiq Ahmed and Mukhtar Ansari ‘gentlemen’ for offering him tandoori chicken

This, however, is not the first time that Rajdeep Sardesai has defended or expressed admiration for someone who offered him free food, and heart-warming hospitality or has ‘impressed’ him. In March 2023, Rajdeep Sardesai commended now-dead mafias Mukhtar Ansari and Atiq Ahmed during his debate show calling them “gentlemen”.

As OpIndia reported earlier, Rajdeep Sardesai said, “Mukhtar Ansari’s moustache makes him appear to have a distinctive character in the pictures shown on the television. But they both fed me a delicious dinner.”

Rajdeep also talked about the tandoori chicken he had at Mukhtar Ansari’s dinner. “Very good tandoori chicken. I said to Mukhtar Ansari that he makes delicious food,” he said back then.

Imagine, a mafia like Mukhtar Ansari with more than 50 cases against him including those of murder and riots, and Atiq Ahmed with over 160 criminal cases against him are ‘gentlemen’ for Rajdeep Sardesai just because they offered him warm hospitality and tandoori chicken to eat.

When Rajdeep Sardesai chose to eat Rasgulla rather than question the West Bengal CM over post-poll violence

Back in 2021, Rajdeep Sardesai shamelessly admitted that he did not ask questions about post-poll violence in West Bengal to CM Mamata Banerjee otherwise she would have denied him Rasgulla. During a program on TheLallantop, Radjeep Sardesai was asked whether he questioned Banerjee over the post-poll violence in West Bengal. He chuckled and said, “I was not there to take her interview. I went there casually on ‘chai pe charcha’. Had I asked her about the post-poll violence I would not have gotten to eat Rasgullas”.

People were killed, women raped, and houses ransacked during the 2021 post-poll violence in West Bengal, but Rajdeep Sardesai preferred to satiate his desire to eat Rasgulla than question CM Banerjee over the anarchy rampant under her watch in the state.  

Rajdeep Sardesai and embarrassment go hand in hand

While Rahul Kanwal saying “Jo khila pila de wo dost” has left Rajdeep Sardesai embarrassed and netizens in splits, this is not the first time that Sardesai has encountered public embarrassment.

In March 2017, India Today Conclave shared a 6-minute interview of Rajdeep Sardesai with business tycoon Mukesh Ambani. Sardesai introduced him as the most powerful person in the country. When he asked Ambani how he felt when he introduced him the way he did, Ambani said, “I don’t believe that. I do not take you seriously.” Sardesai, humiliated by the ‘most powerful person in India’, could only say, “Are yeh kya baat hui (What are you saying).”

Rajdeep Sardesai once had to face massive embarrassment after protestors confronted him and referred to him as a ‘Dalal’ or a broker and accused him of being a part of the ‘Godi media’. 

From being rebuked by former President Pranab Mukherjee, being schooled by now-Prime Minister Narendra Modi, being dismissed by business leader Mukesh Ambani as frivolous, to numerous incidents of his TV show guests schooling him, Rajdeep Sardesai has been quite used to facing public embarrassment. And who can forget when AIMIM supremo Asaduddin Owaisi refused to let Rajdeep thank his wife for cooking a delicious meal for Sardesai and his wife Sagarika Ghose since he believed Muslim women should not meet other men? Probably, this was the only time Sardesai was displeased despite being fed free and delicious food by a political figure.  

It is pertinent to note that there is nothing wrong with eating with politicians or receiving their hospitality; nonetheless, as a journalist, one must not forget or ignore their journalistic ethics. Further, in public life, there should be a limit on who may be called a friend and who cannot be called one. You have no moral right to call yourself a journalist and embarrassment is your only constant companion if anti-Indian elements become your friends, if you comfortably choose stuffing your face with food and singing melodies for a political leader instead of questioning them about their actions and policies.

UN Chief Antonio Guterres, declared persona non grata by Israel for his Hamas bias, finally condemns terror attack by Hamas on Israel

ANI
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UN Chief Antonio Guterres, declared persona non grata by Israel for his Hamas bias, finally condemns terror attack by Hamas on Israel

As October 7 marks the completion of one year of the horrific day when Hamas launched an offensive on Israel, the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres said that it is a day for the global community to condemn the “abhorrent acts of Hamas.”

In his message on Monday, Guterres also expressed solidarity with all the victims and their loved ones.

“Today marks one year since the horrific events of October 7th when Hamas launched a large-scale terror attack in Israel killing over 1,250 Israelis and foreign nationals, including children and women. More than 250 people were abducted and taken to Gaza, including many women and children. The October 7th attack scarred souls – and on this day we remember all those who were brutally killed and suffered unspeakable violence – including sexual violence – as they were simply living their lives,” Guterres said in his message.

Guterres reiterated the demand for an immediate and unconditional release of all the hostages who are held captive in Gaza.

“This is a day for the global community to repeat in the loudest voice our utter condemnation of the abhorrent acts of Hamas, including the taking of hostages. Over the course of the past year, I have met with the families of hostages…learned more about the lives, hopes and dreams of their loved ones … and shared in their anguish and pain. I cannot imagine the torture they are forced to endure every day. I demand once again the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages,” the UN Secretary-General said.

The conflict in Gaza escalated after the October 7 attack by Hamas, where about 2,500 terrorists breached the border into Israel from the Gaza Strip, leading to casualties and the seizure of hostages.

Israel has characterised its Gaza offensive as targeting Hamas’ infrastructure to eliminate the entire terror group while making efforts to minimize civilian casualties.

Meanwhile, the UN Secretary General urged that “Hamas must allow the International Committee of the Red Cross” to visit the hostages, to ensure their well-being.

Guterres said, “The 7th of October is naturally a day to focus on the events of that awful day. I express my solidarity with all the victims and their loved ones. Since October 7th, a wave of shocking violence and bloodshed has erupted. The war that has followed the terrible attacks of one year ago continues to shatter lives and inflict profound human suffering for Palestinians in Gaza, and now the people of Lebanon. I have spoken out about this often and clearly.”

He said it was “time to silence the guns”, urging the release of hostages. “Time to stop the suffering that has engulfed the region. Time for peace, international law and justice,” he added.

The Secretary-General further added that the United Nations is fully committed to achieving those goals. “In the midst of so much bloodshed and division, we must hold on to hope. Let us honour the memory of the victims, reunite families and end the suffering and violence in the whole Middle East,” he urged.

Rockets from southern Lebanon struck the Israeli port city of Haifa on Monday (local time) in response to Israel’s intensified campaign in Lebanon with targeted airstrikes on Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut, hitting key weapons depots and terror infrastructure overnight.
According to the Israeli army, five rockets launched from Lebanon hit the port city of Haifa.

At least five people were wounded after a restaurant, a house and a main road were hit, as per Israeli media. Sirens also sounded in the northern city of Tiberias, as per Al Jazeera.

The army also said alerts were activated in the Upper Galilee area after detecting 15 rockets. “Some” of them were intercepted.
Israeli media reported that at least 10 people were injured in the rocket attack on Haifa.

This comes after Israel launched a series of powerful airstrikes that shook the southern suburbs of Beirut, causing massive fireballs and plumes of smoke. The intense bombardment, targeting Hezbollah strongholds, left a trail of destruction and chaos.

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

Chennai air show tragedy: How mismanagement, lack of planning led to deaths and chaos

OpIndia Staff
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Chennai air show tragedy: How mismanagement, lack of planning led to deaths and chaos

On Sunday, 6th October, the much-anticipated Indian Air Force air show was held at Marina Beach in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The show, which was supposed to inspire pride in the nation, ended in chaos and tragedy. At least five people died at the Chennai air show tragedy and 100 others were hospitalised as the local authorities failed to plan properly for the show, leaving the spectators helpless in the scorching heat.

Reportedly, around 10 lakh people reached the venue, much more than anticipated. People started gathering as early as 7 AM while the show was scheduled for 11:30 AM.

The official reports suggest that dehydration and exhaustion were the main causes. However, the ground reality is much grimmer. Attendees blamed the DMK government for poor crowd management. They also accused the authorities of a lack of traffic planning and inadequate public transport. The overall failure resulted in a stampede-like situation as thousands attempted to leave the venue simultaneously.

Speaking to the media, a senior police official confirmed that one person died on the beach and four others in nearby areas. All of these deaths occurred due to the overwhelming crowd that gathered to witness the air show. State Health Minister Ma Subramanian had assured the public that there were two health teams and forty ambulances stationed to avert any tragedy during the show. However, the arrangements were inadequate compared to the crowd that showed up.

The DMK government’s “preparedness” crumbled when faced with the massive crowd that Marina Beach could not handle. The dead have been identified as Srinivasan (48), Karthikeyan (34), John Babu (56), and Dinesh.

Journalist Srikkanth pointed out that VIP/VVIP crowd had special treatment during the show which added to the chaos.

Many journalists have also pointed out how VVIP vehicles and escorts contributed to the jam and traffic nightmare, resulting in choking and preventing smooth movement of the people.

Many people, even some police personnel were seen climbing high walls to escape.

Opposition hits out at DMK government

Opposition parties have strongly criticised the DMK government over Chennai air show tragedy, with Tamil Nadu BJP chief Annamalai leading the charge. “I was shocked to hear that five people died due to crowding and more than 200 people were injured and admitted to hospital for treatment during the IAF air show at Chennai Marina Beach. The only reason for this is that the DMK government failed to provide basic facilities and adequate transport arrangements,” Annamalai said in a post on X. He added that the government cannot brush it off as an accident. He held the DMK government and Chief Minister MK Stalin directly responsible for the disaster.

AIADMK leader and Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami echoed similar concerns. “The loss of lives is tragic and speaks volumes about the DMK’s inability to manage such events. The government earlier claimed that all necessary arrangements had been made, but the police force was insufficient, and people were left to suffer,” Palaniswami said in a statement.

BJP’s national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said, “This is not just a tragedy, but a state-sponsored disaster. MK Stalin and the DMK government must take responsibility and resign for failing the public.” His sentiment is shared by many across Tamil Nadu, who are now questioning whether the DMK is prioritising public welfare or its own political ambitions.

DMK downplayed the Chennai air show tragedy

DMK, on the other hand, tried to downplay the incident. Party leader TKS Elangovan said in a statement that such incidents have “also happened at temple festivals”. However, comparing a disaster of this magnitude to a temple festival highlighted the DMK’s insensitivity and lack of accountability.

DMK leader Kanimozhi blamed the crowd for the Chennai air show tragedy and said, “The news of the death of five people is very sad and painful when the public, who witnessed the military flight adventure programme held at Marina Beach in Chennai, suffered from the crowd and the temperature. Unmanageable gatherings should also be avoided,” she wrote in a post on X in Tamil.

Lakhs of people reached the beach to enjoy the air show. Despite the high turnout, the state response was reactive rather than proactive. Chennai Metro Rail increased the frequency only after the event started. By that time, the damage was already done. Thousands were stranded at congested exit points. There were no shades or proper hydration available at the venue. The scorching sun and overcrowded beach pushed many to the brink of collapse. Later, medical teams stationed at the venue confirmed that most of the victims suffered from heatstroke and dehydration. These were preventable issues if the government had ensured proper facilities beforehand.

The Chennai air show was meant to mark the 92nd anniversary of the Indian Air Force. The show was aimed to display the might of the Indian Air Force.

LiveLaw reports Umar Khalid’s bail hearing being adjourned omitting this crucial fact, Rajdeep Sardesai uses it to cry ‘injustice’: Here is the truth

OpIndia Staff
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LiveLaw reports Umar Khalid’s bail hearing being adjourned omitting this crucial fact, Rajdeep Sardesai uses it to cry ‘injustice’: Here is the truth

On the 7th of October, the bail hearing of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam and others was listed to be heard by the division bench comprising Justice Navin Chawla and Justice Shalinder Kaur. The matter was adjourned to 25th November 2024 because Justice Navin Chawla’s father passed away on the 6th of October.

Given the sensation attached to the case, one would imagine that law portals like LiveLaw would be responsible enough to report the full truth, however, that is a tall ask. On the 7th of October, LiveLaw tweeted that the UAPA matter had been adjourned and the next date of hearing was listed to be the 25th of November 2024.

While tweeting the update, LiveLaw missed the reporting of the crucial information that the matter had been adjourned because of the personal loss suffered by Justice Navin Chawla.

LiveLaw also published a report on the adjournment, however, even in the report, the reason for the adjournment was not listed. An archived version of the report can be read here.

As soon as LiveLaw tweeted the update, self-proclaimed ‘vultures’ like Rajdeep Sardesai jumped to action, crying injustice. He wrote, “Tareek pe tareek. Today is October 7.. next date is November 25! Four years and counting. Reason? Judge did not sit!!”.

Rajdeep edited his tweet later to write, “Tareek pe tareek. Today is October 7.. next date is November 25! Four years and counting. Bail plea not heard. Reason? Judge did not sit!! For VVIPs, courts will open for bail on weekends, ensure fast tracking”.

In the duration that he wrote his initial post to the last edit, there were enough netizens pointing out that the hearing was adjourned because of the Judge’s personal loss.

Rajdeep Sardesai took the time to edit his post but added fuel to the fire by crying “VIPs get fast track hearings”. It must be mentioned that the date of the next hearing is provided according to the roster.

Rajdeep Sardesai is essentially upset that an Islamist charged under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is not being special treatment.

But he was the only one to omit the context of the adjournment and peddle propaganda on social media.

The usual suspects, from Islamists to Leftists, have been trying to create a narrative that Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam and others are being denied bail because of the inherent bias of the judicial system and that, the judiciary is deliberately delaying the bail hearings.

When Umar Khalid sought adjournments in hearings

It is pertinent to note here that while the narrative often is that Umar Khalid’s hearing has been delayed indefinitely, it was only in April 2023 that he approached the Supreme Court. Before that, he had got a 1-week reprieve to attend his sister’s marriage in December 2022.

First and foremost, there is no explanation as to why Umar Khalid waited 6 months before moving the Supreme Court for bail, after the rejection by the High Court.

Secondly, while there were screeches about the delay in the hearing, there were several times when his lawyer Kapil Sibal himself wanted the case to be adjourned.

OpIndia found that out of the 14 adjournments in 2023 and 2024, 7 delays and adjournments were sought by Umar Khalid himself. It therefore becomes evident that the withdrawal was certainly not because of the famed “delay” in hearing.

Umar Khalid and his role in Delhi’s anti-Hindu riots

On 14th September 2020, Umar Khalid, former JNU student and son of an ex-SIMI member was arrested for his role in the Delhi anti-Hindu riots that broke out on the 24th of February.

He, along with others, was booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act or UAPA and relative provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for being the masterminds of the riots.

Umar Khalid, son of Ilyas on the other hand admitted to the Delhi police that he was involved in organizing Muslim groups, instigating them, and preparing for the large-scale violence.

He had mobilized the Muslims against the law, by asserting that the new law was ‘against Muslims’ and had also planned to involve women and children in the ‘Chakka Jam’ amid the visit of US President Trump to India.

He had allegedly met the former AAP Councillor Tahir Hussain and another accused Khalid Saifi to assure logistical support during the riots through his contacts in the PFI.

According to the reports, the agencies have been watching and warning about the nexus between Maoists whose front organization Khalid is aligned with, and hardline Islamists allegedly represented by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Welfare Party of India, and banned outfit SIMI.

He had also repeated Pakistani talking points in Kashmir an claimed that the Indian Union territory was occupied by Indian forces.

Sexual video, money embezzlement or clash of control? ISKCON Patna and Bhagalpur temple priests clash in Patna, 12 injured

OpIndia Staff
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Sexual video, money embezzlement or clash of control? ISKCON Patna and Bhagalpur temple priests clash in Patna, 12 injured

On Sunday (6th October), clashes erupted between two factions of ISKCON priests at the Patna ISKCON temple in Bihar. This came after Bhagalpur ISKCON temple president Rakshak Giridhari Das released a video allegedly featuring Patna ISKCON temple president Krishna Kripa Das alias Kanhaiya Singh in a semi-naked state with an unknown girl.

While the temple’s PRO Nand Gopal Das said that the video that was released was seven years old, the clashes over it erupted on Sunday.

Reports say that the Bal Brahmcharis at the Patna ISKCON Temple were being beaten up for no reason and they were also being denied the prasad. Moreover, it is alleged that several other ‘immoral’ activities including embezzlement of money, obscene acts and molestation of female devotees, and beating of brahmacharis were taking place at the temple with the knowledge of the temple’s higher authorities.

In this regard, the ISKCON Bhagalpur temple Brahmacharis complained to ISKCON’s Governing Body Commission (GBC) in Kolkata. In response, the ISKCON Patna authorities called the Bhagalpur ISKCON priests for a meeting in Patna. However, as they reached the temple, the Bhagalpur ISKCON priests were thrashed by bouncers with sticks, allegedly on the orders of the ISKCON Patna administration. Over 12 priests were injured in the clashes. The incident left devotees present at the spot terrified.

While the ISKCON Bhagalpur temple president Rakshak Giridhari Das accused the ISKCON Patna president and the temple administration of wrongdoings, Krishna Kripa Das, president of Patna ISKCON temple, says that Giridhari Das wants his share in the temple authority. He added that despite being transferred to Bhagalpur, Rakshak Giridhari Das was residing in Patna.

Later, when the victims reached Patna Kotwali police station to file a complaint, the police allegedly showed reluctance in registering their complaint. The ISKCON Bhagalpur temple priests accused the local police of being in cahoots with the ISKCON Patna temple administration.

Meanwhile, the Patna ISKCON temple administration has also given a written complaint against the Bal Brahmacharis from Bhagalpur for entering the Patna ISKCON temple premises and assaulting the temple workers.

Speaking about the incident and the main cause behind the clashes, DSP Law and Order Krishna Murari Prasad said that after inspecting the spot late at night, they found out that the conflict has happened due to internal factionalism over the control of the administration of ISKCON temple. 

DSP Law and Order Krishna Murari Prasad questioned Rakshak Giridhari Das, President of Bhagalpur ISKCON temple and Krishna Kripa Das, President of Patna ISKCON temple, who had come to the police station to lodge a complaint and plead for justice. Both the parties levelled serious allegations against each other.

On the alleged molestation video involving the Patna ISKCON president Krishna Kripa Das alias Kanhaiya Singh, the DSP said that if any complaint comes up in this regard, then this matter will be investigated.

Tripura: Muslim mob goes berserk after claiming assault from Durga Puja organisers for refusing to pay chanda, police bring situation under control

OpIndia Staff
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Tripura: Muslim mob goes berserk after claiming assault from Durga Puja organisers for refusing to pay chanda, police bring situation under control

On Sunday (6th October), violent clashes broke out in the Kadamtala block area of North Tripura after a Muslim mob attacked Hindu houses and members of a local club over the collection of paid subscriptions (chanda) for Durga Puja.

The attack comes 3 days before the commencement of the annual Hindu festival. According to a report by Tripura Chronicle, a local club organising the Durga Puja sought a contribution of ₹5000 from a Muslim driver named Jahar Mia.

He was reportedly travelling to Assam with some of his relatives. Mia refused to pay, leading to a heated argument and confrontation between him and the club members.

Later, a Muslim mob siding with the driver broke into the houses of the Hindu club members and attacked their families.

They did not spare women and children during the targeted attack. The victims sustained injuries and an atmosphere of tension gripped the entire neighbourhood.

During the orgy of violence, the Muslim mob vandalised two homes and a beauty parlour. In visuals that have surfaced on social media, scared Hindu residents were seen narrating their ordeal and showcasing the extent of damage caused to their property.

“Kadamtala bazar is destroyed, including the front part of my house. Is this India? Where do we go from here?” a terrified Hindu woman was heard saying.

“Local sources reveal that minority community members entered the conflict, reportedly attacking common people and exacerbating the tension,” the report by Tripura Chronicle read.

It further added, “District Superintendent of Police Bhanupada Chakraborty acknowledged the intense strain between the two groups, largely triggered by disputes over Durga Puja donation collections.”

An arson attack was also carried out in the Kadamtala Bazar area. Muslim mobs, armed with machetes, terrorised Hindus and looted shops in the market area. One man was brutally killed and 17 others were injured during the onslaught on the Hindu community.

The attack triggered retaliatory measures, prompting the law enforcement authorities to intervene. A large contingent of police and paramilitary forces, including Tripura State Rifles (TSR), was deployed to pacify the situation.

They resorted to lathi-charge and firing. So far, the police have arrested two Hindus namely Nirmalendu Sen and Dwipajoy Nath in connection to the violence.

Following the incident, the local administration imposed Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) in the area for 3 days, preventing the assembly of 5 or more people.

“NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sajal Debnath, TCS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Dharmanagar, North Tripura in exercise of power conferred under section 163 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 hereby pass order to prohibit any kind of assembly consisting of five or more person with or without weapons or weapon like objects such as lathi, sticks, iron rods, bamboos, stones or any object which may be used as weapon of offence and also hereby prohibit holding of any public meeting, rally gathering, public address with or without use of loudspeakers, plying of vehicles/ motor bike not more than two together on the road etc. Anywhere around the Kadamtala PS Jurisdiction area of Dharmanagar Sub- Division of North Tripura with following restrictions from October 06 to October 9,” the order read.

In a statement, the North Tripura district police said, “Situation in Kadamtala is completely under control. Police is taking appropriate action. Please don’t spread rumour.”

Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha has taken cognisance of the matter and directed strict action against those involved in the violence.

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