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Anti-India, anti-Israeli propaganda and peddling of Pakistani narrative on Kashmir: Meet Shabana Mahmood, the Labour MP now in charge of ‘justice’ in UK

Dibakar Dutta
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Anti-India, anti-Israeli propaganda and peddling of Pakistani narrative on Kashmir: Meet Shabana Mahmood, the Labour MP now in charge of ‘justice’ in UK

On Friday (5th July), the new Labour Party government in the United Kingdom (UK) appointed Shabana Mahmood, known for her anti-India and anti-Israel stance, as the Secretary of State for Justice.

She has also been given the additional charge of being Lord Chancellor. Shabana Mahmood, who has her origins in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), has been a Member of Parliament from Birmingham Ladywood since 2010.

True to her origins, the Labour Party MP has been spreading canards about the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir for over a decade.

She has been exploiting her position as the UK’s Parliamentarian to peddle Pakistan’s talking points on J&K since September 2014.

A year later, Shabana Mahmood and a handful of her colleagues fired off a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his visit to the United Kingdom.

In the letter, she listed out 6 demands including the removal of the Indian army from Jammu and Kashmir, repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the release of prisoners, unrestricted travel to the region, investigation of ‘mass graves’ and ‘peaceful resolution’.

At the very outset, these outrageous demands could be thought of as external intervention by an erstwhile colonial power in India’s internal matters. However, there is more to it than what meets the eye.

Towards the end of the letter, Shabana Mahmood made her intentions clear by reiterating the need to conduct a referendum in Jammu and Kashmir by the United Nations resolution (which has outrightly been rejected by India in the past).

The reference to UN Resolutions on Kashmir is made by the Pakistani government and its army from time to time to bypass the bilateral pacts and exert external pressure on India. The letter by the Labour Party MP and her colleagues sought to achieve the same.

In January 2017, Shabana Mahmood was seen calling for global intervention in India’s internal affairs during a politically-motivated speech in the House of Commons.

“This is a very long-standing dispute between two nuclear-armed powers in one of the world’s most heavily militarized regions. It does not receive enough attention anywhere outside of that region around the world and certainly not in our own country given the size of our British Kashmiri population. It certainly has a lot of attention from that population but not enough from those outside of that,” she claimed.

The PoK-origin Labour MP sought to exploit the opportunity to tarnish the image of India based on unfounded claims.

Shabana Mahmood brazened out, “The further push for a debate regarding Kashmir has come in particular as a result of the upsurge in violence and fighting that we’ve seen in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir from last summer. And what we see there, Mr. Deputy Speaker, is the unacceptable failure of the whole world and the denial to give effect to UN resolutions to respect the self-determination of the Kashmiri people playing out in the worst possible way because the people have lost hope.“

Shabana Mahmood loses sleep after abrogation of Article 370

The Labour Party MP doubled down on her anti-India activism after Prime Minister Modi-led-BJP government abrogated Article 370 of the Indian Constitution on 5th August 2019.

“Deeply concerned about the Indian Government’s decision to abolish #Article370, removing #Jammu and #Kashmir’s existing level of autonomy. The escalation we have seen by the Indian Government in recent days is truly shocking and it simply must stop. Human rights must be upheld,” she whined soon after the landmark decision.

Shabana Mahmood and her coterie of Parliamentarians wrote to the Conservative Party leader and the then Prime Boris Johnson, pleading him to arm-twist India for abrogating Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.

To further their argument, the vicious UK politicians resorted to peddling blatant lies about the Indian government.

“We call on you to strongly condemn the actions of the Indian Government in revoking Article 370 and to consider the wider context of this act led by Prime Minster Modi, the leader of a far-right political wing of Hindu nationalism. This is a movement that is changing India for the worse and one that views India’s 195 million Muslims as second-class citizens – BBC reports have detailed how many are lynched by Hindu Nationalists in the name of ‘cow protection’. His recent re-election has given an electoral mandate to majoritarian nationalism at best and Hindu fascism at worst. It is emboldening the reactionary elements at work in India, unleashing them even further, and leading to even more violence against Muslims,” they alleged.”

Shabana Mahmood and her Labour Party colleagues had forgotten that India was no longer a colonial state of England. As such, none of their conjectures, surmises and suppositions had any bearing on the decision made by the Indian government.

During an interview with Sky News on 7th August 2019, she claimed, “I think that the move to strip Kashmir of its autonomy and its relative independence and special status by the Indian government is deeply provocative. It’s an aggressive act and I think it’s very dangerous because, you know, Kashmir and what’s happened with Kashmir after partition in 1947.“

“(This) has led to many decades of violence on the Indian side of the line of control and what India has now decided to do in relation to the special status of Kashmir is, I think, an absolute betrayal of the people of Kashmir and I’m deeply concerned about the consequences that this is now going to have,” the PoK origin UK Parliamentarian was heard saying.

Later in August 2019, Shabana Mahmood was seen protesting alongside her radical Pakistani origin supporters over the abrogation of Article 370 in Birmingham (which boasts of 29.9% Muslim population). It was unprecedented for a sitting UK Parliamentarian to demonstrate against India, which happens to be a strong ally of the country.

In May 2020, she tweeted about briefing Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, who now happens to be the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, about the ‘ongoing situation’ in Kashmir via video conferencing.

Her last social media meltdown on the Indian Union territory was on 5th August 2020 i.e. on the 1st anniversary of abrogation of Article 370. Since then, she has not posted anything on Jammu and Kashmir.

“It’s been a year since lockdown was imposed in Kashmir by the Indian Government after they revoked the autonomy and special status of Kashmir. This was an unjust and unilateral action and with the double lockdown due to Covid, many are worried for friends and family,” she had tweeted then.

Activism against Israel, propaganda in support of Palestine

Since June 2010, Shabana Mahmood has been involved in pro-Palestine and anti-Israeli activism. As early as August 2014, the Labour Party MP was seen protesting on the streets in support of Gaza.

In one of the pictures, Shabana Mahmood was seen holding a poster that read, ‘Free Palestine, End Israeli Occupation.’

According to Fox News, the Labour Party MP had previously supported the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel.

As per a Daily Mail report from 2014, Shabana Mahmood was involved in encouraging mob rule and forcibly shutting down a supermarket in Birmingham for ‘stocking goods from illegal settlements’. Jewish leaders in the city had accused her of ‘stirring up tensions’, behaving inappropriately and promoting public disorder.

In an article, The Jerusalem Post pointed out how the MP from Birmingham Ladywood had been peddling anti-Israeli rhetoric.

Screengrab of the news report by The Jerusalem Post

“I have always supported a diplomatic process to stop the killing of innocent civilians, get humanitarian aid in and get the hostages out. But it is clear that diplomatic processes have not made sufficient progress. The conduct of this war has been intolerable, with a disproportionate level of attacks on innocent people that has rightly been the deliberations in international courts,” she had claimed.

It now remains to be seen how an anti-India and anti-Israeli propagandist within the Labour Party, in the form of Shabana Mahmood, fulfils her duty as the Secretary of State for Justice.

Murder, attack on police, chopping limbs and more: 10 recent incidents of violence by Nihang Sikhs

OpIndia Staff
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Murder, attack on police, chopping limbs and more: 10 recent incidents of violence by Nihang Sikhs

In recent years, there has been a disturbing rise in incidents of violence involving Nihang Sikhs and men dressed in Nihang attire. On 5th July, 58-year-old Sandeep Thapar, known as Gora and the chief of the Shiv Sena in Punjab, was viciously attacked with swords by four assailants in Nihang attire outside Ludhiana Civil Hospital. This shocking incident, caught on camera, follows a series of violent acts attributed to Nihangs, including the brutal killing of a youth at a Phagwara gurdwara and multiple confrontations with police in Kapurthala and Amritsar.

Attack on Shiv Sena leader Sandeep Thapar

On 5th July, 58-year-old Sandeep Thapar, also known as Gora who is the chief of the Shiv Sena in Punjab was attacked with swords by four unidentified individuals dressed as Nihang Sikhs outside the Ludhiana Civil Hospital. The entire instance was recorded on camera. Notably, his security detail was reduced a week earlier. Sandeep Thapar, who is a descendant of Indian freedom fighter and martyr Sukhdev, was assaulted upon leaving the Samvedna Trust office next to the Civil Hospital.

Police revealed that the accused who were waiting outside, assaulted him with swords and beat him on the head before absconding from the spot. His lone gunman did not try to pursue the assailants or fight back to defend him. Witnesses brought the severely injured man to the civil hospital, where he was subsequently referred to the nearby Dayanand Medical College and Hospital.

According to Shiv Sena Punjab’s youth wing chief Sumit Arora, the victim had at least three gunmen providing security, but the police removed that protection a week ago. A gunman was later brought back to him. He added that the gunman used to abstain from work and watch silently, enabling the perpetrators to escape with ease. The police have started the inquiry and are looking for the culprits.

Youth killed by Nihangs in Phagwara Gurdwara

On 16th January, a Nihang Sikh allegedly killed a youth at a gurudwara in Phagwara, Punjab, on suspicion of sacrilege. The accused identified as Ramandeep Singh Mangu Math, posted the footage of the youth before murdering him and claimed responsibility for the murder.

After committing the heinous crime, the accused locked himself inside the Chaura Khooh Gurudwara. Senior police officers rushed to the scene when they were informed about the incident and recovered the body of the victim but he has not been identified yet. The accused is also yet to be arrested.

Nihangs attacked police in Kapurthala

On 22nd November, Nihang Sikhs opened fire at police officers in Sultanpur Lodhi of district Kapurthala, Punjab. One policeman was reportedly killed, while two were injured. The incident took place when police went to arrest some Nihang Sikhs at a Gurdwara. The police personnel were standing on the road when Nihangs opened fire at them. The senior officials rushed to the spot after receiving the information. An additional police force was deployed to maintain law and order in the area.

As per police officials, there was a scuffle between two Nihang Sikh groups over ownership of Sri Akal Bunga Sahib Gurdwara. When the police reached the Gurdwara to detain Nihang Sikhs, who were accused of infringing on the premises, they opened fire.

Dalbir Singh killed by Nihang in Amritsar

On 11th August 2023, a 50-year-old Nihang Sikh man named Dalbir Singh alias Bau was arrested for killing his teenage daughter and dragging her dead body by tying it to his motorbike in Mucchal village in Amritsar district of Punjab. Accused Dalbir Singh slashed his daughter with a sword at around 2 pm on Thursday. The only fault of the 16-year-old girl was that she went to an acquaintance’s house and returned the next day. Police arrested the accused and booked him under murder charges.

Man killed by Nihangs for allegedly smoking near Golden Temple

On the intervening night of 7th and 8th September 2022, a man was hacked to death by a group of four men, including two Nihang Sikhs, outside a hotel close to the Golden Temple following an argument over smoking. The CCTV footage of the incident has gone viral on social media. The deceased has been identified as Harmanjit Singh of the Chatiwind area. As per the reports, an argument broke out between Harmanjit and four other men, including two Nihang Sikhs, over smoking. The argument turned violent, and the man was allegedly assaulted with a sharp-edged weapon by the Nihangs, which led to his death on the spot.

In the CCTV footage, the victim was seen sitting on a bike next to an e-rikshaw when Nihangs stopped him, and they got into an argument. Within a few minutes, the argument turned violent and went into a fistfight. However, the Nihangs overpowered Harmanjit and pushed them to the side of the road, where he was allegedly attacked with a sharp-edged weapon.

Scuffle broke between Nihang Sikhs and Radha Soami Satsang Beas followers

On 4th September 2022, a clash broke out between Nihang Sikhs and followers of the Radha Soami Satsang Beas after the Nihang Sikhs of Tarna Dal Baba Bakala (Baba Pala Singh) group allegedly tried to enter the Dera premises to graze their cattle. Both sides reportedly pelted stones, used swords, and fired shots at each other during the clash. At least 12 people have been reported to be injured, including police personnel.

Following the clash, an additional police force was deployed in the area, and senior police officials took charge of the situation, including the Inspector General of Police. As per the Police’s statement, a group of Nihang Sikhs wanted to enter the Dera premises to graze their cattle. The lands of both groups are side-by-side. The Dera followers stopped them from entering the premises which led to the clash.

Youth killed by Nihangs for allegedly smoking on road in Delhi

On 17th June 2022, a youth was killed in Delhi for allegedly smoking on the road. In the early hours of Wednesday, June 15, two Nihang Sikhs reportedly stabbed a food delivery executive in Delhi’s Tilak Nagar area over a petty issue. The 29-year-old deceased who has been identified as Sagar Singh worked as a delivery partner for the food delivery company Zomato.

He was reportedly stabbed in the chest with a kirpan and then his head was smashed with bricks by the two Nihang Sikhs for ‘smoking’ on the roadside. The deceased, according to his family members, was lying on the road in a pool of blood for at least 20 minutes, but none of the bystanders stepped forward to help him. Later, another delivery boy spotted Sagar Singh and rushed him to the hospital, where the doctors declared him brought dead.

Men dressed as Nihang Sikhs destroyed idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses in Amritsar

On 7th March 2022, miscreants dressed as Nihang Sikhs damaged a Shiva idol at a Jagran close to Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar. The incident was captured on CCTV. A case has been filed in the incident.  As per reports, a Jagran was being organized by Naujawan Sabha at Katheria Bazaar near Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar. After the Jagran was over at 5:30 AM, some miscreants dressed as Nihang Sikhs damaged the Shiva idol using a barcha (lance). The CCTV footage of the area showed five miscreants dressed as Nihang Sikhs appearing from the back of the stage. One of them used the barcha and damaged the idol from behind. Then they moved to the front of the stage.

A few moments later, more miscreants appeared in the footage, and one of them further damaged the idol by hitting it with the bacha with full force. Shiv Sena leader Sudhir Suri alleged that when the miscreants came in front of the setup, they misbehaved with the organisers and used abusive language.

Poultry farmer attacked by Nihang Sikhs for not giving him chicken

On 21st October 2021, reports have emerged that another Dalit worker has fallen victim to their rage. A poultry farm worker was allegedly beaten up at the border area for not yielding to the demands of a Nihang Sikh.

A report by the Hindi daily, Dainik Bhaskar, suggests that a Nihang named Naveen Sandhu, who is involved in the ‘farmers’ protest, had assaulted the labourer who supplied chicken near the Singhu border. In a fit of rage, Naveen Sandhu purportedly broke the poultry worker’s leg when the latter refused to give him chicken.

Dalit man Lakhbir Singh killed by Nihang Sikhs during farmer protests

On 15th October 2021, a man identified as Lakhbir Singh was found brutally murdered with his right hand chopped and hung to a barricade at the Kundli border farmers’ protest site just outside of New Delhi on Friday morning. Reportedly, he was hacked to death by Nihang Sikhs on Thursday night for allegedly desecrating the holy book of Guru Granth Sahib. His right hand was chopped and tied near his body at the Kundli border, between Haryana and Delhi which has been occupied by so-called protesting farmers. The victim’s body was then tied to a barricade using ropes just behind the main protesting stage for public viewing. The accused was arrested by the police who showed no remorse on murdering Lakhbir.

Delhi Police files FIR against TMC MP Mahua Moitra for her ‘Pajama’ remark against NCW Chief Rekha Sharma

OpIndia Staff
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Delhi Police files FIR against TMC MP Mahua Moitra for her ‘Pajama’ remark against NCW Chief Rekha Sharma

On Sunday (7th July), a case related to outraging the modesty of a woman was registered against TMC MP Mahua Moitra for her derogatory remarks against National Commission of Women (NCW) chief Rekha Sharma. As per reports, the Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit of the Delhi Police Special Cell will now seek details from X (formerly Twitter) about the account from which the controversial post was made against the NCW Chief. 

Police stated that the matter will be further investigated after receiving the information. Notably, an FIR was registered against the controversial TMC MP after the Women’s Commission had lodged a complaint with the Delhi Police in connection with her ‘Pajama’ remark against Sharma. 

The recent case involving Mahua Moitra unfolded on Thursday (4th July). She had commented on a post that included a video of Rekha Sharma when she arrived in Hathras to meet the victims of the stampede that took place at a private religious congregation. 

In the video, Sharma was seen at the site, with someone carrying an umbrella for her. Journalist Nidhi Razdan on X asked, “Why can’t she carry her own umbrella?” 

Moitra responded to Razdan’s post and wrote, “She’s too busy holding up her boss’s pajamas,” sparking online backlash. The remarks triggered a suo moto cognisance from the National Commission for Women, which wrote to the Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla demanding strict action against Moitra. The Commission also demanded an FIR against the TMC MP for a comment that doesn’t behoove a lawmaker.

“The crude remarks are outrageous and a violation of a woman’s right to dignity. The Commission observed that this remark attracts Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023. NCW strongly condemns these defamatory remarks and requests strict action against Ms Moitra. An FIR should be registered against Ms Moitra and a detailed action report should be communicated to the Commission within 3 days,” NCW tweeted.

Responding to NCW’s complaint, Moitra stated no regrets. Instead, she posed a challenge to Delhi Police to get to her in the next three days. “Come on Delhi Police please take action immediately on these suo moto orders. Am in Nadia in case you need me in the next 3 days to make a quick arrest. I Can Hold My Own Umbrella,” she tweeted.

The MP from West Bengal’s Krishnanagar, Moitra was disqualified from the Lok Sabha last year following the ‘cash for query’ scam row. She has been notorious for making headlines for her unhinged rants and abusive behaviour inside and outside the parliament. 

Maharashtra: 42 Indian passports obtained illegally by Bangladeshi infiltrators confiscated, infiltrators had also procured Aadhaar and PAN cards

OpIndia Staff
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Maharashtra: 42 Indian passports obtained illegally by Bangladeshi infiltrators confiscated, infiltrators had also procured Aadhaar and PAN cards

The fact that Bangladeshis are residing illegally in Maharashtra has come to the fore numerous times. On 2nd July, the Regional Passport Office in Pune invalidated up to 42 Indian passports that were reportedly obtained by Bangladeshis by submitting fake documents, according to the information obtained from the Pimpri Chinchwad authorities.

According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Shivaji Pawar, information on 42 passports was discovered while looking into the five Bangladeshis who were taken into custody in January of this year from the Nigdi area. The infiltrators were identified as Rocky Barua alias Debit Roy (31), Amiron Barua (28), Ankur Barua (28), Ratul Barua (28) and Rana Barua (25), all natives of Chittagong in Bangladesh.

According to the police, the Bangladeshis entered India illegally and were found living in Sainath Nagar, Nigdi. They intended to use their Indian passports to travel overseas for business. Three of the Indian passports that were taken from the suspects were issued in Goa, per a probe conducted by the investigating officer, assistant police inspector AS Deshmukh. A police report was filed on the matter at the Nigdi police station, under sections of the Passport Act and the Foreigners Act by 31-year-old Suyog Arun Lande of the Pimpri Chinchwad police’s anti-terrorist cell.

An inquiry found that multiple Bangladeshis were assisted in obtaining Indian passports by Sainath Yeilwad, a local agent in Pune’s Chandan Nagar, Rocky also known as Debit Roy, and Jiku Das alias Joy Chowdhary who is also a Bangladeshi but was staying illegally in Pune and Goa. While Jiku and Sainath are still on the run, Debit Roy disclosed information about many Indian passports that have been acquired by Bangladeshis who had entered India illegally.

According to the police, illegal immigrants from Bangladesh first secured PAN cards and Aadhaar cards, which they then used to gain Indian passports with the aid of agents in Pune and Goa. 42 Indian passports that Bangladeshis received after entering India illegally were reported to the passport office by DCP Sandeep Doifode of the special section of the Pimpri Chinchwad police. DCP Shivaji Pawar issued a press release stating that the Passport Office then carried out verification and revoked all 42 passports following the instructions on 2nd July.

According to authorities, Sainath, the fugitive accused, was also charged in a related case that was brought to the Mumbai police station in Borivali. A Borivali police team apprehended twenty Bangladeshi infiltrators and two Indians in the scheme to fabricate passports, Aadhaar cards, Pan cards, and other documents for the infiltrators. A Mumbai court found all 20 of the Bangladeshi infiltrators guilty and convicted them in May of this year.

As Delhi LG approves probe against Satyendar Jain in CCTV scam, read details of the case of the former AAP minister allegedly taking ₹7 crore to waive penalty

Paurush Gupta
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As Delhi LG approves probe against Satyendar Jain in CCTV scam, read details of the case of the former AAP minister allegedly taking ₹7 crore to waive penalty

On Saturday (6th July), Delhi LG V K Saxena approved a recommendation for a probe under the Prevention of Corruption Act against jailed former Delhi Minister Satyendar Jain in a bribery case related to the installation of CCTV cameras in the city, Raj Niwas officials said. Interestingly, Congress had raised the issue of corruption in this project and accused AAP of compromising “national security” by giving the contract to a Chinese government-backed vendor in this project. Congress leaders had also demanded Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation over this issue. 

Former Delhi Minister and AAP leader Jain is currently in judicial custody in a money laundering case. According to Raj Niwas officials, Jain received a bribe to the tune of Rs 7 crore from vendors of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) which was awarded the contract to install CCTV cameras in Delhi. As per the allegations, Jain demanded a bribe in exchange for waiving the Rs 16 crore penalty imposed on BEL for the delayed installation of CCTV cameras in 70 Assembly constituencies of Delhi.

The officials further stated that Jain was the PWD minister and nodal authority of the project of installing 1.4 lakh CCTV cameras in Delhi at the cost of Rs 571 crore. It was awarded to BEL. Incidentally, the CCTV installation project, which is currently under scanner over allegations of corruption, was among the key promises of the Aam Aadmi Party after it came to power in 2015 in the National Capital. However, the bid was opened for the current project in 2018 and the contract soon started facing allegations of corruption. 

Notably, out of the Rs 571 crore, Rs 321 crore was for installation, while the Rs 250 crore was for maintenance for 5 years, electricity charges, and data charges. As per the government order, the project was to start on 15th June 2018 and was to be completed by 15th June 2019.

The officials added that Delhi LG agreed with the proposal of the Directorate of Vigilance to refer the matter under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act to the Union Home Ministry for approval of the investigation against Jain by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB).

Congress raised the issue of corruption and national security in CCTV installation contract

Incidentally, in 2018, AAP’s current I.N.D.I. Alliance partner Congress had levelled serious allegations against Arvind Kejriwal’s government regarding the tendering of CCTV installations. Back then, Congress leaders claimed that AAP issued a fresh tender only to benefit a Chinese government-backed company, Hikvision. 

Congress leader Ajay Maken had alleged that the first tender for the installation of CCTV cameras was floated in November 2017 but the AAP government rejected it because Hikvision was not on the vendor list of BEL. Later, it floated the second tender in January 2018 to help the Chinese company bag the contract.

Congress further alleged that the AAP government had “compromised national security” by giving the contract to a Chinese company and demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

A complaint against Satyendar Jain was filed by an employee of BEL

The case against Jain is based on a complaint filed by a BEL employee in September 2019 who incidentally had to face an internal departmental inquiry and was later terminated from the job for highlighting the same. According to the officials, the employee had alleged that the company paid the bribe money to Satyendar Jain through its vendors. Apart from recording the complainant’s statement, the agency corroborated the complaint as the ACB also obtained information from secret sources.

The ACB has been probing the case since January 2023. In the complaint, the BEL employee alleged that the bribe was paid through vendors since questions were bound to be asked in a Public Sector Undertaking. Citing the case file, officials alleged that “repeat orders” were issued to them, indicating the commission of an offence, as reported by Times of India. 

Officials stated that the ACB had recorded the statement of the complainant, who faced a departmental enquiry (DE) in connection with the case. 

The official said, “The complainant also provided the copy of minutes of proceedings of DE against him in which he had mentioned about the incident of demand and payment of bribe amount of Rs 7 crore to Jain.”  

Officials added that the directorate of vigilance had submitted to LG that a prima facie case under PoC Act was made out against Jain based on the statements of the complainant and other evidence collected in the matter. 

The CBI filed an FIR in this alleged scam in December 2022.

Details mentioned in the Minutes of the meeting during the Departmental Enquiry in BEL

According to a report by The Sunday Guardian, on 4th September 2019, an internal inquiry proceeding was held at the BEL’s Sahibabad-based guest house and it involved officials of the BEL. The proceeding was held against three officials of BEL namely Man Mohan Pandey, R.K. Goyal, and Sumit Krishna. Notably, they had prepared an inquiry report, which busted the alleged scam that took place while awarding the contract to build the sensitive Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) sites. Their inquiry report had indicted top officials of BEL for colluding with private companies. 

The internal inquiry noted that BEL officials admitted that a Delhi Minister was demanding a bribe for waiving penalty on the BEL for delayed installation of CCTV cameras, in the wake of assembly elections. 

After the inquiry report named these three officials, the BEL first suspended them in May 2019. Later, the inquiry proceedings were started which went on till September 2020 when they were ultimately terminated from their jobs.

Subsequently, the BEL appointed D.K. Singhla and Jeetendra Singh as its representative in the inquiry committee. While Suresh Katiyal, a General Manager level officer with BEL was appointed as the Inquiry Officer. He went on a private defence company soon after his retirement. Singhla was the then Deputy General Manager of Human Resources, and Singh was the then Assistant General Manager.

The Minutes of Meeting (MoM) carry legal sanctity and are considered a vital part of any such proceedings as the mandatory document during such meetings is signed by all three parties – one being inquired, a representative of the government organization, and the enquiry officer. 

As per MoM, one of the representatives of the BEL, Jeetendra Singh, told the three officials (Pandey, Goyal, and Krishna) that the Delhi government had decided to impose a fine of Rs 16 crore on BEL in August 2019 for BEL’s inability to complete the installation of the CCTV on time.

During the inquiry, Singh was questioning the three officers for their stance on tackling corruption. Quoting Singh, Pandey said, “At that time, the PO (Presenting Officer which were Singh and Singhla) told me that he (Singh) has been made the in-charge of the implementation of this project (CCTV installation project) and LD (Late Delivery penalty) was a ploy of one of the cabinet ministers of Delhi government to collect funds for the upcoming election. He said that since BEL cannot give money directly he (Singh) has been tasked with the job to see how the vendors can be paid extra so they can give the money to the Cabinet minister.” 

Incidentally, the MoM was signed by Singhla, Singh, Katiyal and Pandey.

Pandey also quoted the same statement of Singh — that a Delhi minister was seeking money to waive of the Late Delivery penalty during the inquiry proceedings held on 25th January 2020, as recorded in the MoM and signed by the BEL representatives.

Additionally, on 28th August 2020, Man Mohan Pandey submitted his reply to the then Chairman and Managing Director of BEL, in response to the finding of the inquiry report. In that letter as well, Pandey mentioned that Jeetendra Singh told him during the proceedings about the Delhi minister asking for money from BEL in view of the Assembly elections. 

In the letter, Pandey also mentioned that he had brought this to the notice of the BEL leadership, but nothing happened.

Speaking with The Sunday Guardian, Manmohan Pandey, and Sumit Krishna confirmed the content of the MoM and stated that Jeetendra Singh had told them during the inquiry proceedings that he had arranged for Rs 7 crore to be paid to the Delhi minister for waiving off the penalty of Rs 16 crore that was imposed on BEL.

Meanwhile, Satyendar Jain resigned as minister in the Arvind Kejriwal cabinet in February 2023, months after he was arrested in the money laundering case. In May 2022, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Jain in a money laundering case and the AAP leader is currently in judicial custody. 

Earlier this year, the Delhi LG gave his approval for a CBI investigation against Jain for allegedly extorting Rs 10 crore from Sukesh Chandrasekhar, who was then lodged in Tihar Jail in another extortion case.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, which defended & provided legal support to terror accused, now wants a special law to legitimise their violent opposition to criticism: The dangers of ‘Islamophobia law” demand

Anurag
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Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, which defended & provided legal support to terror accused, now wants a special law to legitimise their violent opposition to criticism: The dangers of ‘Islamophobia law” demand

On 5th June, Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind urged the Union Government of India to introduce comprehensive legislation to address the so-called Islamophobia in the country. The statement came from the chief of JUH Maulana Mahmood Asad Madani. Notably, JUH has a history of defending terrorists and providing legal support to members of terrorist organisations like Al-Qaeda and ISIS. Considering the history of the organisation, it raises serious concerns about the true intentions behind such a proposed law and the potential dangers that it poses.

JUH has a notorious track record of defending individuals associated with numerous terrorist activities. They have provided legal aid to terrorists linked to organisations like ISIS, Al-Qaeda and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Reports suggest that the organisation’s legal cell, which was established by its chief Maulana Mahmood Asad Madani in 2007, has taken up cases and enlisted lawyers to defend terror accused in the courts across the country, a stance that poses a serious threat to national security and social harmony.

In 2022, OpIndia published a report that explained how Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind has defended around 700 terror-accused individuals resulting acquittal of at least 192 since 2007. Most of the acquittals were due to technicalities, lack of evidence and poor police investigation rather than proof of innocence. High-profile cases, including the 7/11 Mumbai train blasts, the 2006 Malegaon blasts, the Aurangabad Arms case, and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, highlight Jamiat’s legal interventions on behalf of terrorists.

In a press release, JUH called for legislation to address the cases of so-called Islamophobia in the country. Furthermore, the organisation also claimed that there are attempts to “saffronise” the educational institutes.

The organisation claimed that BJP and NCPCR are running false propaganda against madrasas by targeting them under one pretext or another. JUH called for necessary measures for the protection and safeguarding of Islamic madrasas. However, the organisation threw the fact under the rug that there have been countless reports where children studying in madrasas are facing atrocities at the hands of maulanas running those madrasas.

Claiming there are attempts to saffronise the educational institutes, JUH said, “Every citizen of this country is free to uphold their religious practices and beliefs under the provisions of the constitution. Therefore, it is an infringement on religious freedom and a violation of the constitution when the government imposes mandatory directives on schoolchildren to conduct Surya Namaskar, Saraswati Puja, Hindu songs, shlokas, or wear tilak. Muslims and any reasonable Indian would find such mandates unacceptable.” There are very few schools that are run by Hindu organisations where students are asked to wear tilak. No one forced any Muslim, Christian or Sikh students to wear Tikak, and recite Shlokas to conduct Surya Namaskar. There are countless reports where Hindu students are ridiculed, criticised and punished for wearing religious symbols while students of other religions freely wear their respective symbols without any problem. The statement by JUH is a clear attempt to create a false narrative that Muslims are under threat in India.

Furthermore, JUH called the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) unfair. JUH said, “By Islamic principles, it also exhorted the community to firmly preserve Shari’ah and provide fairness for women in society. It is unacceptable to allow injustices against women in areas like inheritance and distribution.”

Interestingly, JUH asked for Muslim reservations and claimed that the demand was not based on religion. It also raised questions over why Hindus lose reservation benefits if they convert to Islam or Christianity.

JUH further warned that any attempt to repeat the Waqf Act would be seen as a plot to “jeopardise both the rights of the Muslim minority and the country’s well-being”. The statement was a clear threat to law and order situation by the organisation.

The demands made by JUH are not only baseless but also pose a threat as the organisation has a history of defending terror accused. By calling for legislation against so-called Islamophobia, JUH is attempting to create a false narrative of victimhood while diverting attention from its controversial actions. The organisation’s stance on issues like the Uniform Civil Code and alleged saffronisation of educational institutes is an evident effort to polarise society and undermine national unity. Such demands and statements by JUH should be viewed with caution, as they pose a serious threat to the security and social harmony of the country.

“File a love jihad case against Raja Sheikh”: Bharuch man commits suicide with his son after asking father to file a case against wife’s gym trainer, wife committed suicide earlier

OpIndia Staff
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“File a love jihad case against Raja Sheikh”: Bharuch man commits suicide with his son after asking father to file a case against wife’s gym trainer, wife committed suicide earlier

A horrific case has emerged from Bharuch in Gujarat involving a man who killed his 12-year-old son and threw himself under a train after his wife committed suicide by hanging. The woman was in an extra-marital relationship with her Muslim gym trainer which led to fights between the married couple. Now, a letter written by her husband has surfaced in which he has stated that a case of love jihad has to be filed against her lover.

Senior section engineer Jatin Makwana lived in Bholav Colony in Bharuch with his spouse and son. Jatin’s body was found on the railway track near Surwadi. He killed himself by jumping in front of the Avantika Superfast Express near Surwadi gate. It was uncovered after a probe that he also wrote a suicide note to his father expressing his intention to end his life after killing his kid due to his spouse’s illicit affair with Raja Shaikh, a gym trainer from Ahmedabad. The couple had regular arguments over the matter but despite his continuous requests, she continued to talk to Raja Sheikh.

Jatin’s father reportedly stated that his son had moved from Ahmedabad to Bharuch four months ago, according to Divya Bhaskar’s report. His wife Tripal used to go to the gym when they were living in Ahmedabad, where she befriended Raja Sheikh and that eventually developed into an adulterous romance. She was taken to her house in Junagadh by Jatin when he learned about the matter, but brought her back on 12th June.

Tripal and Raja Sheikh apparently continued their romance even after the family moved to Bharuch, which resulted in further disputes between the husband and wife. Tripal had promised Jatin that she wouldn’t speak to Raja Sheikh ever again, but on 18th June she spent thirty minutes talking to Sheikh.

On 19th June, Tripal tried to end her life by consuming poison but she survived. She had often threatened to take her own life. According to reports, Jatin gave his father call details that showed chats that took place over 60 hours between 1st and 19th June. He voiced the possibility that this conversation might have happened with gym trainer Raja Sheikh.

Jatin also said that Raja Sheikh’s mother also spoke to Tripal and stated that she could come to their house if her husband threw her out and in the suicide note charged that Sheikh’s mother was also guilty in the case.

Jatin wrote a letter to his father on 22nd June

It was uncovered after Jatin’s passing that he had also written a 12-page letter to his parents and family members on 22nd June discussing Sheikh’s clandestine relationship with his wife. Jatin wrote, “Tripal has ruined my life, Vihaan’s life, and all of ours, but Dad, do not spare Raja Sheikh. File a case of love jihad against him. This is his only work. Today my life is ruined, tomorrow it will happen to someone else. So don’t spare Raja Sheikh, and I also ask the law of the land that he should not be spared as he has ruined my life.”

He further wrote, “V-Fitness gym has been closed, but B-Strong gym, located in Vastral, should also be closed because these gyms are involved in similar activities. Muslim people trap Hindu girls by posing as gym trainers and ruin their lives. So, for my soul to find peace, Raja Sheikh should receive the harshest punishment, and such activities in gyms should be stopped. It is Raja Sheikh who has ruined mine and Tripal’s life.”

He added, “If Tripal is alive, let her live with Raja Sheikh in peace if she wishes. Everything is over. No one should fight with Raja Sheikh. I just want to convey my message to society. Also, tell my brother not to fight with anyone. What was meant to be done has been done and I have done what I had to do. In the end, do not leave Raja Sheikh. I am just tired now. Sorry, Dad.”

The case is currently being probed by the Ankleshwar B Division Police and the Bharuch Railway Police. Raja Sheikh is expected to be questioned as well. According to the police, who were providing information on suicide, it was found that the wife had killed herself at first. Subsequently, the father murdered his son and hurled himself off the train.

Allurement of money, promise of curing cancer, conversion training from Chandigarh: Details emerge from Bharatpur religious conversion event

OpIndia Staff
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Allurement of money, promise of curing cancer, conversion training from Chandigarh: Details emerge from Bharatpur religious conversion event

On Friday (5th July), Bharatpur Police busted a religious conversion event taking place inside the house of an accused named Ravindra who runs an organisation in the name of the Church Foundation. According to reports, the accused couple was running the religious conversion center in Bharatpur claiming that attending the prayers would cure serious ailments of the attendees, including life-threatening diseases like cancer. Ruby (32), wife of Ravindra Kumar (39), had taken training in religious conversion exercise from Chandigarh (Punjab). These people used to connect others through WhatsApp groups.

Mathura Gate police station in-charge Karan Singh Rathod stated that on 5th July, there was a huge crowd in front of Ravindra’s house which is located at Gate number 39 near RIICO in Bharatpur city. There was a dispute going on over the issue of religious conversion. Given the situation, the Police detained 28 people.

On the report of a local resident Niranjan Singh, a case was registered under section 299 (doing an act malicious against any religion) and 302 (inducing someone to change religion through words) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). During the investigation, the police found the allegations leveled against Ravindra Kumar, Phool Singh, and Ravindra’s wife, Ruby, to be true.

Ravindra was arrested and then later, court released him on bail. Section 35(3)-(6) BNSS notice has been issued to Ruby and Phool Singh. The remaining people were granted bail on Friday on a surety bond of Rs 5,000 each.

Details mentioned in the FIR

In his complaint, Niranjan Singh stated that on 5th July at around 11 am, 3 people (Ravindra, Ruby, and Phool Singh) were preaching Christianity in a house near Railway Gate 39. They had organised a meeting on the pretext of treatment and curing diseases.  

The accused were telling the attendees to give up idol worship of Gods and Goddesses and adopt Christianity. They alleged that Hindu Gods and Goddesses did not take any incarnation. Abusive words were spoken about Lord Krishna and the accused described the Hindu religion as the lowest. They also said that Jesus is the greatest God and if you serve them, you will get heaven.

During the meeting, they were creating hatred towards the Hindu religion. Those who came to the meeting regularly were lured with a bonus of Rs 10,000 and free treatment. There was talk of increasing the bonus for continuous attendance. The accused distributed free calendars, books, and pamphlets.

Niranjan Singh said that when the people of our organisation reached there, Ravindra said, “Run away from here, otherwise Jesus will incinerate you. Your Gods cannot stand before Jesus. All this happened in Changhai Sabha (a prayer meeting held in Christianity).”

Vishwa Hindu Parishad District President Lakhan Singh said that Ravindra Kumar is a resident of Ajaan village of Bharatpur. A religious conversion center has been running in Bharatpur for many years. Ravindra’s wife also supports him in this work. Ravindra’s wife took training in religious conversion in Chandigarh. After this, both of them started a religious conversion center in Ajan village. After that, Ravindra started going from village to village and telling people about Christianity.

Lakhan Singh added that earlier, the villagers assaulted Ravindra and Ruby and chased them away from Ajan village. Then Ravindra took a plot in Bharatpur. He stayed near the railway gate for 3 years and ran the centre.

Meanwhile, speaking with the media, several followers of the accused Ravindra claimed that they personally benefitted by attending the religious congregation. While some claimed that attending the Satsang of the Lord Jesus cured kidney stones, others believed that it cured their body ailments, cancer, impotency, and other diseases. Reportedly, the followers also claimed that their diseases were cured without any medicine. 

Currently, the police are interrogating Ravindra, his wife, and his relative.

The ASI added that all the people present at the spot have been sent to their homes. He further stated that the self-styled Baba had been ordered to close his Darbar.

Jagannath Rath Yatra begins today in Puri, read all about the legend of Lord Jagannath and the significance of the auspicious celebration

Rukma Rathore
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Jagannath Rath Yatra begins today in Puri, read all about the legend of Lord Jagannath and the significance of the auspicious celebration

The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri is considered one of the most magnificent, celebratory and revered festivals in all of India. The festival takes place in Puri in Odisha and is connected to the deity Jagannath, who is a form of Vishnu or Krishna. Three enormous wooden chariots bearing Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra are pulled by throngs of worshippers down on bada danda (the grand avenue) to Gundicha Temple during the festival. Millions of people gather to catch a glimpse of Lord Jagannath and have the opportunity to touch the rath or help take it ahead.

While the main Rath Yatra takes place in Puri, similar Yatras are taken out across India on this occasion.

The deities are adorned in different attire and placed on their decorated chariots. According to belief, devotees who either touch the rath once or assist in moving it forward receive great blessings. The rath yatra is considered the oldest and largest Hindu chariot festival, which takes place every year during the bright half of the lunar month of Ashadh (June-July). The sacred occasion is believed to experience a yearly downpour on the day it is conducted. The festival is going to be celebrated on 7th July and conclude on 16th July, this year.

The festival is celebrated to commemorate the annual visit of the presiding deities of the Jagannath Puri temple to their aunt’s (mother’s sister) house. It is believed that during this festival, Lord Jagannath Temple Rath Yatra comes out of their holy abode and gives Darshana (holy view) to the people. The deities stay at their aunt’s temple for a week before making their way back to the Jagannath temple and the return journey is referred to as Bahuda Yatra. Various rituals and celebrations take place during the auspicious time. There are two primary processions, one in Puri and the other in Gujarat.

The enormous works of art that transport the gods to the temple are covered in a plethora of patterns and designs. Carpenters known as “Maharana,” who have hereditary rights to the craft, begin building the chariots during the Chandana Yatra. The three chariots for the rath yatra are yearly constructed by up to 1400 skilled artisans. Nandighosha, Taladhwaja and Devadalana are the names of the three raths. Additionally, these chariots are identified from one another by a predetermined pattern of coloured cloth robes. Goddess Subhadra’s chariot (Dwarpadalana) is covered in red and black cloth, Lord Baladhabra’s chariot (Taladhwaja) is covered in red and blue cloth and Lord Jagannath’s chariot (Nandighosa) is covered in red and yellow cloth.

History of the rath yatra

The rath yatra reportedly dates back to the Puranas and has been taking place since ancient times. The raths that moved in the air are mentioned in the Rig Veda. The raths, dragged by horses, were three stories tall. In his analysis of the terms “Rathastha and Rathaganak,” among others, the great scholar Panini also makes reference to rath. The rath yatra is also known as the Gundicha Yatra. Gundicha was the queen of King Indradyumna, who constructed this enormous temple, according to Odia mythology. It is believed that Queen Gundicha asked the king to arrange this event to provide redemption to the impoverished untouchables and sinners who were not usually permitted to join the temple through Lord Jagannath’s darshan (holy view) in his rath.

Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra. (Source: India Tv)

The Jagannath temple is located 1.5 miles away from Gundicha House. It is presently referred to by several names, including Janma Sthana (birthplace), Gundicha Mandapa, Gundicha House, Janaka Puri and Mahavedi. The Skanda Purana mentions Mahavedi, also known as Gundicha Mandapa, as Lord Jagannath’s birthplace. Indradyumna offered thousands of sacrifices at the location. Three images of the three gods were created at Mahavedi following the sacrifice, performed by him. The ratha yatra was arranged to bring the gods to the temple after the images were completed.

In the Purushottama Mahatyma, Jagannath promised Indradyumna that he would visit his birthplace, which is on the bank of Indradyumna Sara and reside for seven days. The same Indradyumna Sara is now visible at Gundicha House. Lord Jagannath is also accompanied by Balabhadra and Subhadra and the three gods come to this place once every year.

Other stories related to the origin of rath yatra

There are multiple legends connected with the origin of the rath yatra. One story mentions that their maternal uncle Kansa invited them to Mathura to kill Lord Krishna and Balram. He dispatched Akrur to Gokul in a chariot. As requested, Lord Krishna got into the chariot with Balram and headed toward Mathura. The rath yatra is the celebration on this day of departure for the devotees. Joyous followers commemorated the day that Lord Krishna, riding in a chariot with his brother Balaram, granted them darshan in Mathura following his victory over the demon king Kansa. The day that Lord Krishna and Balaram rode in a chariot with his sister Subhadra to display the magnificence of the city was celebrated by devotees in Dwarika.

A second story is that one day, the queens of Lord Krishna asked Mother Rohini to tell the story of the several fascinating “ras lilas” that include Lord Krishna and the Gopis. Rohini sent Leela away, believing it was inappropriate for Subhadra to hear such stories. However, she was soon absorbed by the Vrajkatha along with Balram and Krishna, who had by now arrived on the scene. Maharishi Narad also entered there while they were totally absorbed in the stories. When he discovered the siblings were standing still together, he prayed, “May the three of you grant darshan in this manner forever.” The blessing came to pass and the three forever reside at the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri.

Another tale that has been relayed verbally describes the events that followed Lord Krishna’s earthly remains being cremated. Distraught by the turn of events, Balaram hurried to drown himself in the ocean with part of the partially cremated body of Lord Krishna. Subhadra also followed behind him. Simultaneously, King Indradyumna of Jagannath Puri dreamed that the Lord’s body would float up to the shores of Puri on the eastern shore of India. He should sanctify the wooden statues of Krishna, Balaram and Subhadra and erect a large idol in the city.

The hollow in the statue’s back is where the bones (asthi) of Lord Krishna’s body should be placed. The dream came true. The asthi (bone splinters) were discovered by the king, who took them. However, the matter of who would sculpt the statues remained. It is believed that Vishwakarma, the architect of the Gods, came in the guise of an elderly carpenter. He was very specific that if anyone bothered him while he was carving the statues, he would disappear and the task would not be completed. A few months went by and the door to Vishwakarma’s chamber was opened by the eager Indradyumna. Just as he had previously warned, Vishwakarma vanished without warning. The king blessed the incomplete statues by inserting Lord Krishna’s sacred cinders into their hollows and placed them in the temple.

Gajapati emperor becomes a ‘sweeper’ for one day

Established in 1434 by Emperor Kapilendra Deva, the Gajapati dynasty of Kalinga (the former name for Odisha) identified themselves as Lord Jagannath’s “servant” implying that Lord Jagannath was the ruler of Kalinga and the Gajapatis humbly serve at his feet. According to Odia legends, folktales, and songs, Lord Jagannath promised Purushottama Deva that he would succeed in his battle after he lost to Kanchi ruler Saluva Narasimha Deva, which caused the Kalinga Army to suffer a significant defeat. Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra both dressed as warriors and then fought alongside the Kalinga army ensuring its victory.

Ritual of “Chhera Pahanra” being performed. (Source: www.shreejagannatha.in)

The rath yatra is a centuries-old custom in which the Kalinga ruler is transformed for a day into a “sweeper.” The Suryavamsa Gajapati approaches the rath and performs the “Chhera Pahanra” ceremony which involves sweeping the Lord’s chariot with a golden broom. Purushottama Deva had heard that Padmavati, the daughter of Saluva Narasimha Deva, was unmatched in beauty and grace, as described by the “Kanchi Kaveri Upakhyana” and sent a proposal since he wished to wed her. When Saluva Narasimha Deva’s emissaries arrived in Kalinga and observed the “Chhera Pahanra” rite, they found it strange that the all-powerful Gajapati was acting as a sweeper.

The ministers in Purushottama Deva’s court were concerned when he threatened to have Padmavati wed a sweeper out of fury and indignation. It would be unfair and disrespectful to the princess to force her into marriage with someone below her social standing, but the young monarch needed a queen. On the other hand, they were directed by their ruler to arrange the princess’s marriage to a sweeper. The ministers held off till the right time. As Gajapati Purushottama Deva began sweeping the chariot with a golden broom on the day of rath yatra, Princess Padmavati was led ahead by the priests and ministers. The princess put a garland around the emperor’s neck who was a literal sweeper at the time as he cleaned the chariot and tied the knot with him. The matter was settled. Both the emperor and the princess found a marriage deserving of their status and desire, and the emperor’s commands were not violated either.

Significance of the rath yatra

The festival holds great significance to the people of Puri, as well as other pilgrims and devotees. It is the world’s sole festival which involves the removal of gods from temples for the benefit of worshippers. According to the Skanda Purana, the rath yatra, also known as Shree Gundicha Yatra is regarded as the most well-known of Lord Jagannatha’s twelve yatras. As per the “Bamadev Samhita,” individuals who are able to see the four deities for a week on the Gundicha Temple’s Simhasana (holy seat) will be granted a spot in Baikuntha, the celestial dwelling, along with their ancestors for eternity. According to this text, people who learn about this wonderful celebration also experience the intended outcome. Furthermore, anyone who learns the sacred festival’s rites and educates others about them could be granted entry inside his sacred abode.

The procession of the ‘four deities’ occurs on the 2nd day of the first half of the month of Ashadha in order to bring about good health and prosperity for all humanity. The Skanda Purana emphasizes that the Shree Gundicha Yatra is the most significant festival of Lord Jagannath since Shree Hari, the Almighty God of the Universe, arrives at the Gundicha Temple in a joyful state to carry out his promised decree. The slightest touch of the chariot, which represents “Sandhini Sakti,” bestows upon the devotees the compassion of Lord Shree Jagannatha. The same is highlighted by the verse which states, “Rathe tu Vaamanam drustva Punarjanmam na vidyate,” which means if we see Vaamana or Lord Jagannath on the chariot during the rath yatra or the car festival, we will never have to take rebirth again.

The name Jagannath is the source of the English phrase “juggernaut,” which symbolizes Lord Jagannath’s enormous and heavy chariot. The definition of a juggernaut is “a big, powerful, overwhelming force.” The rath yatra is fundamentally a celebration of devotion and the divine bond that exists between the gods and humans. Interestingly, the idols are changed every 12 years. Along with Rameshwar in the south, Dwarka in the west, and Badrinath in the Himalayas, the Jagannath Puri Temple is one of India’s four holiest sites. Perhaps the only temple in the world featuring the statues of three siblings, Lord Krishna, Balaram, and Subhadra, is the one at Jagannath Puri.

No law and order left in Tamil Nadu, transfer the case to CBI: BSP supremo Mayawati on her party’s state chief Armstrong’s murder in Chennai

OpIndia Staff
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No law and order left in Tamil Nadu, transfer the case to CBI: BSP supremo Mayawati on her party’s state chief Armstrong’s murder in Chennai

On 7th June, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati issued a statement accusing the Tamil Nadu government of being lenient towards the investigation into the murder of state party chief K Armstrong. He was hacked to death on 5th July near his residence. In her statement, Mayawati demanded that the investigation should be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Mayawati reached Chennai to pay last respects to K Armstrong. BSP National Coordinator Akash Anand, who is Mayawati’s nephew as well, accompanied her. While talking to the party workers, Mayawati raised questions on the law and order situation in the state and said, “The way Armstrong has been murdered, it seems there is no law and order left in Tamil Nadu. The main culprits have not been arrested yet.”

Mayawati accused the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government of not being serious about the investigation. She said, “The state government is not serious about this murder investigation otherwise the culprits would have been behind bars. If the state government does not want to serve justice, this matter should be handed over to the CBI. We demand a CBI investigation. If the state government does not refer the case to the CBI, it means they are also involved in this murder.”

She also questioned if Dalits were safe in Tamil Nadu and said, “It is not about one Dalit leader’s murder. The whole of the Dalit community is under threat and many Dalit leaders are scared about their lives.” To make sure the situation does not go out of hand in the state, Mayawati cautioned the BSP cadre not to take the law into their hands. She said, “To ensure action against the accused, the party cadre should come forward but at the same time, stay within the limits of law and show that the weaker section does not take law into their hands.”

Earlier, she posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) condemning the murder of Armstrong. She wrote, “The gruesome killing of Mr K. Armstrong, Tamil Nadu state Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president, outside his Chennai house is highly deplorable and condemnable. An advocate by profession, he was known as a strong Dalit voice in the state. The state Govt. must punish the guilty.” However, the demand has now shifted to transferring the investigation to CBI.

On 5th July, K Armstrong, the Tamil Nadu chief of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), was hacked to death by six bike-borne attackers near his house in Chennai. Some of the attackers were reportedly dressed as delivery agents and used sharp weapons during the attack. They attacked Armstrong when he was holding discussions with his party functionaries near his house in the city’s Sembium area. Following the attack, they fled the crime scene. Armstrong’s family immediately rushed to the spot where he was lying in a pool of blood with severe injuries to his head and neck. He was taken to a hospital where he was declared brought dead.

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