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UP: Muslim mob turns violent after claiming print on doormat resembles ‘Kaaba’, does stone pelting and sloganeering in Balrampur shopping mart

राहुल पाण्डेय
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UP: Muslim mob turns violent after claiming print on doormat resembles ‘Kaaba’, does stone pelting and sloganeering in Balrampur shopping mart

On Friday (12th April), a mob attacked a shopping mart in the Balrampur district of Uttar Pradesh, claiming that an image of the Kaaba in Mecca was on the doormat. This incident escalated tensions within the community. The police, however, said that it was a wall hanging and not a doormat. Subsequently, the mob raised incendiary slogans and pelted stones. However, a major untoward incident was averted due to the police’s proactive presence in the Muslim-dominated Utraula market. Now the police are conducting raids by registering FIR against 50-60 unidentified attackers and examining CCTV footage to identify the perpetrators.

This incident transpired in the Balrampur district’s Utraula police station precinct where the angry mob attacked a shopping mart named V-Bazaar. Akhilesh Jaiswal is the name of the mart’s manager. A mob comprising Muslim youths arrived at the said shopping centre on the 12th of April. They claimed that doormats sold at V-Bazaar featured the image of the Kaaba. In a viral video, the young man is pressuring the manager to bring a doormat. They do, however, receive the response that the doormat will not be sold. In another video, the angry Muslims can be heard saying things like “taking pictures and sending them to a group of journalists.”

Police warn people not to take the law into their own hands

The information obtained by OpIndia suggests that initially, some people arrived at V Bazaar outraged over alleged doormats with Kaaba print. The outraged people and V Bazaar’s manager got into an argument. When the manager realised what was happening, he called the Utraula police station.

Sub Inspector Kislay Mishra arrived at V-Bazaar right away with a few constables. He calmed the irate mob despite being outnumbered and continued to defend the dozens of employees inside the shopping centre. Inspector Utraula Sanjay Dubey arrived there with extra force in the interim. He urged the mob to file a written complaint about their concern and cautioned them against taking the law into their own hands.

SI Kislay Mishra and Inspector Sanjay Dubey’s appeal had a positive effect, and some people came forward to file written complaints. They filed a complaint against the V Mart managing director and a few other staff members. The police filed a formal complaint (FIR) on the complaint of causing hurt to religious sentiments and urged the people to maintain peace. During this time, the administration was alert and handled the situation effectively.

Muslim mob turned violent after a complaint was registered

Even though a complaint was filed at Utraula police station, a mob was hell-bent on resorting to violence, and the police’s appeal had little effect on them. They started gathering in front of V-Bazaar, screaming inflammatory slogans including ‘Allah Hu Akbar’ and ‘Labbaik-Labbaik’ while trying to block the road. The already attentive police force gathered promptly at the scene. Even though they were fewer in number, the police nonetheless assumed command and made an attempt to persuade by using measures like Section 144 execution. However, the police’s vocal admonitions had no influence on the mob.

Police dispersed the irate mob

The angry mob reportedly hurled stones at the V Bazaar store. During the stone pelting, a portion of V-Bazar’s display board was shattered. Some nearby shopowners began lowering their shutters. People closed the windows and doors to their homes for safety. Eventually, the cops chased away the mob determined to violence. As the police officials took strict action, the miscreants fled the spot and the situation reverted to normal.

Police have filed a FIR against 50-60 unnamed assailants under sections 143, 504, 506, 188, 341, 336, and 427 of the IPC, as well as section 7 of the Criminal Law Act of 1932. The miscreants in the mob are being identified using CCTV footage and other information. The day following the incident, markets reopened and people went shopping. In addition to police officers, paramilitary and PAC personnel have been deployed in the area. The market is constantly patrolled by the officials. Currently, the situation in Utraula is normal.

Mob gathered near Gausia Masjid

When OpIndia inspected the matter on the ground, we found that the rowdy elements had congregated near the Gausia Masjid. Gausia Masjid is located in the centre of Utraula Market near V-Bazaar. Even as the police attempted to control the violence, the majority of the perpetrators fled in that direction. When the aggressive mob moved ahead, numerous women employees and customers were present at V-Bazaar. However, owing to the administration’s proactive approach, they were all safe.

“We are grateful to the Police, they protected us”

Speaking to OpIndia, Aman Modanwal, an eyewitness to the violence who runs a sweet shop named Shubham Mishthan Bhandar near the scene said that at the time of the incident, he had closed his shop as a precaution due to the large crowd. Aman has reopened his shop. Aman informed us, “The police performed an excellent job. Who knows what would have occurred if she had been more active?”

Balrampur Police warns of strict action against rumour-mongers

While Balrampur police chased the miscreants away without causing any adverse effects, they also maintained a strict presence on social media to combat rumour-mongering about the incident. Police warned many such rumour mongers on social media and told them to delete the false and misleading claims. OpIndia has numerous screenshots of rumour-mongers who have admitted their mistakes, deleted their posts, and assured that they will not indulge in rumour-mongering.

V-Bazaar runs in a Muslim’s house, outrage over 2 years old stock

OpIndia’s ground investigation also revealed that the house where V-Bazaar is operating is owned by a Muslim. The stock on which the mob resorted to aggression is claimed to be from 2022. V-Bazaar is also looking into how the 2-year-old stock suddenly showed up in the store. In addition, it is being investigated how the mob assembled and the images and videos went viral in such a short time.

Thiruvananthapuram: Model Code of Conduct Nodal Officer issues warning to Shashi Tharoor over cash for votes allegations against Rajeev Chandrasekhar

OpIndia Staff
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Thiruvananthapuram: Model Code of Conduct Nodal Officer issues warning to Shashi Tharoor over cash for votes allegations against Rajeev Chandrasekhar

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) Nodal Officer has issued a warning to Congress candidate Shashi Tharoor for making “unverified allegations” against Union Minister and BJP candidate Rajeev Chandrasekhar. The stern warning was issued on Sunday, 14th April.

As per reports citing the Thiruvananthapuram Nodal Officer, Tharoor made an unverified allegation against Rajeev Chandrasekhar at an interview on a news channel, which violates the Model Code of Conduct. The Congress leader claimed that Chandrasekhar was offering money to voters and religious leaders in exchange for votes.

The MCC Nodal Officer said, “A Complaint was filed by JR Padmakumar, Election Legal Convenor, BJP before the DEO on April 6, alleging that “Unsubstantiated accusations” were made by Sashi Tharoor in a “Meet the Candidate” Interview hosted by 24 News Channel. It was alleged that Sashi Tharoor accused Rajeev Chandrasekhar offering money to voters and religious leaders in exchange of vote. On April 8, another Complaint was filed by VV Rajesh, NDA Convenor, on the same subject matter. He has alleged that Statements made by Sashi Tharoor in the Interview was “Utterly false, Frivolous” and made to defame. Further, He submitted that Sashi Tharoor by making the impugned statement in the interview, has violated Rule 1(2), Rule 1(3) of the MCC and S.123(3) of the RP act,”

On 10th April, Rajeev Chandrasekhar served a legal notice to Tharoor for defamation. Speaking to ANI, he said that Tharoor has flung a lot of allegations at him in desperation.

“One of the allegations is that I am paying money for votes. I have said very clearly that, I will not be drawn into this negative type of politics. However, if anybody defames me and attempts to trespass into an area by telling lies about me, I will certainly not be quiet. I will certainly use all the tools under the law to ensure that that person is held accountable,” Chandrasekhar said.

A day later, Tharoor said he had not received any notice and denied having made any allegations. “I have not received it. I, at no stage, made any allegations. I merely said that this is the talk of the town and that people are talking about it,” Tharoor said.

On 12th April, Tharoor reportedly sought an apology from Chandrasekhar for issuing the defamation notice. “He is not responsible for any other versions of the same program or any editing, post-production changes, studio recordings of casual talks, chats or any other acts that are not intended for broadcasting…My client is not responsible for any ‘slander’ as he has not uttered any,” Tharoor’s lawyer stated.

The Model Code of Conduct came into effect on 16th March after the Election Commission of India announced the dates for the Lok Sabha elections.

Shashi Tharoor’s election campaign has been marred with controversies. On 7th April, a group of Congress workers stopped Tharoor during his campaign and were seen shouting him down and raising slogans “Go back” and “no vote for you”.

Iran-Israel conflict: Blinken dials up Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, asserts US position on ‘avoiding escalation’ in the region

ANI
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Iran-Israel conflict: Blinken dials up Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, asserts US position on ‘avoiding escalation’ in the region

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken on Sunday spoke with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan to discuss the ‘blatant’ and ‘unprecedented’ attack by Iran and its proxies on Israel, US Department of State spokesperson Mathew Miller said.

In conversation with Turkish leader, Secretary Blinken thanked him for his efforts to prevent further escalation in the region.
“@SecBlinken spoke with Turkish Foreign Minister @HakanFidan about yesterday’s blatant and unprecedented attack by Iran and its proxies on Israel. He thanked him for his efforts to prevent further escalation in the region,” Miller posted on X.

The top US official also spoke with his counterparts in Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia following Iran’s attacks in Israel.
During his phone calls, Blinken emphasised the importance of avoiding escalation in the region and the importance of “a coordinated diplomatic response.”

In his conversation with his counterparts in Jordan and Egypt, Blinken also underlined the significance of achieving an “enduring end to the crisis in Gaza.”

Spokesperson Miller shared details about Secretary Blinken’s conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan, saying, “@SecBlinken spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince @FaisalbinFarhan to discuss last night’s unprecedented air attack against military facilities in Israel and to coordinate on a diplomatic response.”

“@SecBlinken and Jordanian Foreign Minister @AymanHsafadi discussed Iran’s unprecedented air attack on Israel and the importance of regional de-escalation,” he added.

Meanwhile, the hours-long Israeli war cabinet meeting ended Sunday night without a decision on how Israel will respond to Iran’s missile and drone attack, CNN reported citing an Israeli official.

The cabinet is determined to respond but has yet to decide on the timing and scope and the official said the military has been tasked with coming up with additional options for a response.

In its first direct attack on Israel on Saturday night, Israel launched more than 300 drones and missiles from its territory towards the Jewish state, triggering air raid sirens throughout Israel on Sunday morning as the country’s advanced air defence intercepted and disabled the projectiles that came its way, the Times of Israel reported.

Notably, Iran and its proxies operating out of Yemen, Syria and Iraq launched more than 300 projectiles at Israel on Saturday night, including dozens of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones. 

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

Prashant Bhushan beats the dead horse again, wants ECI to reveal the source code of EVM, a demand already rejected by Supreme Court

OpIndia Staff
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Prashant Bhushan beats the dead horse again, wants ECI to reveal the source code of EVM, a demand already rejected by Supreme Court

Continuing his attack on Electronic Voting Machines, notorious Supreme Court advocate Prashant Bhushan recently reiterated the old demand that the ECI should reveal the source code of EVMs in the public domain. Strikingly this demand was already rejected by the Supreme Court last year asserting that it will make the source code more vulnerable. 

In a vile rhetoric against ECI and the current CEC, Prashant Bhushan ranted, “The manner in which the lapdog CEC is behaving wrt EVMs: Not revealing the source code of the programmable chips; not willing to meet Opp parties on this; not willing to even count the VVPAT slips; reveals the malafide intent of the CEC.” 

Issuing an open threat, the disgraced Supreme Court advocate added, “They must know they will be jailed if they are caught with manipulation of EVMs.”

Bhushan made the above remarks while responding to a media report that the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) criticised ECI for allegedly not responding to RTI queries relating to EVM and VVPATs for more than a year. The said RTI was filed by the former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer M G Devasahayam.

Devasahayam was among the signatories who tried to cast apprehensions about the credibility of electronic voting machines (EVMs), voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT), and the vote-counting process. He had filed the application under the Right to Information (RTI) Act with the poll panel, seeking information on the actions taken regarding their representation on 22.11.2022. 

Through his RTI application, Devasahayam sought to obtain information about the individuals and public authorities to whom the representation was forwarded, any meetings conducted on the matter, and all pertinent file notations.

Prashant Bhushan attacked the ECI for not revealing the source of ‘programable chips’ of the EVMs, but the fact is that the highest court of the country has already dismissed this demand.

Notably, in September 2023, a three-judge bench of the SC headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought an audit of the source code of all Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The PIL had also demanded that the audit report be released in the public domain. 

While rejecting the PIL, the CJI said, “What is the material before us to doubt about the Election Commission? How can source code be placed in the public domain? It cannot be made available in the public domain. That will make them more vulnerable.”

In a short hearing, petitioner Sunil Ahya, representing himself, informed the bench that he had previously submitted a representation to the Election Commission of India but had not received any response.

Rejecting the PIL, the bench in its order said, “Plea is filed seeking independent audit of the source code of the EVM applying to a particular standard of IEEE1028, and so that the report is placed in the public domain. The petitioner had earlier moved a plea before the general elections in 2019 and the court had held that due to impending elections it was not possible to get into the plea.”

The order stated, “Another PIL was filed in 2020 and this court permitted him to make a representation before the ECI. Petitioner says he made three representations to the ECI but is still in the dark. ECI is entrusted with control over elections. Presently, petitioner places no actionable material before this court to show that ECI has acted in breach of its constitutional mandate. Ultimately, placing the source code audit in the public domain intervenes with the policy issue and we are not inclined to interfere in this policy issue. There is no material to show ECI is not fulfilling its mandate. Thus, we do not interfere in this petition.” 

Prashant Bhushan spread another lie by using the phrase ‘programmable chip’, because the EVMs contain One Time Programmable (OTP) microcontrollers. This means, once the software has been loaded into the chips, it can’t be altered.

Bhushan also lied by saying that ECI is not willing to even count the VVPAT slips. At present, VVPAT slips of five EVM-VVPATs in each assembly segment is counted, as per a Supreme Court order. The VVPATs to be taken up for counting paper slips are randomly selected through a ‘draw of lots’ conducted by the Returning Officer in the presence of the General Observer and the candidates or their representatives. The paper slips are counted in a secure VVPAT counting booth under a camera inside the counting hall, after the last round of counting of votes on the EVMs in the constituency.

A petition to count all VVPATs has been filed at the Supreme Court, and the apex court is hearing the matter. However, the ECI has opposed the demand to count all VVPAT slips or even 50%, saying that it would delay the announcement of results by five to six days.

ECI also points out that in all the instances where the slips are counted, no discrepancy was found with EVM results. As per the poll body, calculations by the Indian Statistical Institute show that even counting slips from 479 randomly selected VVPATs across the country would guarantee over 99% accuracy. At 5 VVPATs per assembly constituency, at present over 20,000 VVPATs are counted.

Therefore, slips of randomly selected VVPATs are counted at present, and the plea to count all of them is under consideration at the Supreme Court.

What ECI says about the source code of EVM

The FAQ page on EVMs on the ECI website gives detailed information about the source code of the EVMs, which explains why they can’t be hacked.

According to FAQ on EVMs published by the Election Commission, India does not import any EVM, all EVMs used in India are made by two Indian companies Bharat Electronics in Bengaluru and Electronics Corporation of India in Hyderabad. The Software Programme Code for the voting machines is written in-house by these two companies, not outsourced. The process is subjected to security procedures at factory level to maintain the highest levels of integrity.

After the code has been written, it is converted to machine code, and only the machine code in machine language is given to the chip manufacturer abroad. This is because, at present there is no chip producer in India capable of producing such semi-conductor microchips.

The FAQ page says, “every microchip has an identification number embedded into memory and the producers have their digital signatures on them. So, the question of their replacement does not arise at all because microchips are subjected to functional tests with regard to the software. Any attempt to replace microchip is detectable and can make EVM in-operative. Thus, both changing existing programme or introducing new one are detectable making EVM in-operative.”

Moreover, the new third-generation M3 EVM has additional features like Tamper Detection and Self Diagnostics. The tamper detection feature makes an EVM inoperative the moment anyone tries to open the machine. The Self-diagnostic feature checks the EVM fully every time it is switched on. Any change in its hardware or software will be detected.

On the technology used in the EVMs, the FAQ says, “The ECI-EVMs use some of the most sophisticated technological features like one time programmable (OTP) microcontrollers, dynamic coding of key codes, date and time stamping of each and every key press, advanced encryption technology and EVM-tracking software to handle EVM logistics, among others to make the machine 100% tamper proof. In addition to these, new model M3 EVMs also have tamper detection and self-diagnostics as added features. Since, software is based on OTP, the program cannot be altered, re-written or Re-read. Thus, making EVM tamper proof. If anyone make, attempt, the machine will become in operative.”

Firing outside Salman Khan’s residence: CCTV footage and pictures of two suspects released, booked for attempt to murder

OpIndia Staff
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Firing outside Salman Khan’s residence: CCTV footage and pictures of two suspects released, booked for attempt to murder

Hours after two unknown bike-borne assailants opened fire at Salman Khan’s Galaxy Apartment in Mumbai’s Bandra, news agency ANI has released the CCTV footage of the firing incident asserting that the same has been confirmed by the Mumbai Police. The Mumbai Police have also released the pictures of both the suspects involved in this case. As per reports, they were heading to the Bandra Railway Station.

In the CCTV footage, both the suspects are seen wearing helmets and carrying backpacks. The man sitting at the pillion is then seen opening fire at the actor’s residence.

In the pictures released by the Mumbai Police, one of the suspects is seen wearing a white t-shirt, black jacket, and denim, while the other person is in a red t-shirt and denim. Both of them are also seen wearing caps. 

As per reports, the Mumbai Police have booked two unknown persons under section 307 of the Indian Penal Code and 3(25) section of the Arms Act. The police have also seized the bike which was allegedly used by the attackers. It was recovered a few kilometres away from the actor’s house. 

The Police officials said that the two persons fired four rounds outside the Galaxy Apartments in Bandra area, where the actor resides, at around 5 am and fled from the spot. 

Mumbai Police said that Salman Khan was present in his home at the time of the incident adding that the bullets were fired in the air. 

Speaking with news agency ANI, DCP Mumbai, Raj Tilak Roushan said, “Today at around 5 am, two unidentified people opened fire outside the house of actor Salman Khan in Bandra. Police have received information about 3 rounds of firing. A case has been registered and an investigation is underway in the case. No one was injured in the firing incident.”

Police sources indicated that the firing involved a 7.62 weapon. According to sources, the bikers departed from Galaxy Apartments toward the Western Express Highway, and there’s speculation that they may have left Mumbai. Additionally, police sources revealed that the shooters are believed to be from outside Maharashtra. 

Sources stated that 15 police teams have been assembled to locate and apprehend the suspects. Mumbai’s top police officials, including Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Lakhmi Gautam and encounter specialist Daya Nayak, arrived at the actor’s residence to initiate their investigation. 

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde and Raj Thackeray reaches out to the actor

After the firing incident, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde spoke to the Bollywood actor over a phone call. He also held discussions with the Mumbai Police Commissioner and directed the police to increase Salman Khan’s security. 

Shinde said, “This is an unfortunate incident. Police are investigating it. The accused will be caught and stringent action will be taken against them.” He assured that those who take the law into their own hands won’t be spared.

He added, “Commissioner has been informed to assess the security of Salman Khan and his entire family & increase the security. I have also spoken with Salman Khan too. I have told him that the Government is with him and he need not worry.” 

Additionally, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Chief Raj Thackeray reached his house.

As per media reports, Anmol, the brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, claimed responsibility for the firing incident in a social media post. However, the veracity of it has not been independently verified. Mumbai Police are probing this matter and checking Anmol Bishnoi’s social media handle.

Meanwhile, Salman Khan’s father, Salim Khan claimed that there was nothing to worry alleging that the attackers only wanted publicity. Speaking with CNN-News18, he said, “There is nothing to tell. They just want publicity, there is no need to worry.” 

Earlier, Salman Khan’s father Salim Khan was threatened by a note in 2022 while he was on a morning walk outside his house in the morning. In the threat note, it was written that he would meet the fate of Sidhu Moosewala. Salman Khan’s security was also increased after this incident. Later, a pistol licence was also issued to him for security reasons. There was also an increase in the number of private security guards of the actor. Salman Khan had also received threatening emails in November 2023.

Muslims will never tolerate UCC and will oppose it like CAA-NRC, Modi will not become PM again: Maulana Mushtaq Malik rants against BJP

OpIndia Staff
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Muslims will never tolerate UCC and will oppose it like CAA-NRC, Modi will not become PM again: Maulana Mushtaq Malik rants against BJP

Maulana Mushtaq Malik, President of Hyderabad-based Tahreek Muslim Shabban, has attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party for including the promise of implementing a Uniform Civil Code in its manifesto, and threatened nationwide unrest and riots similar to anti-CAA agitation. He also claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi won’t secure a third consecutive term this year.

Maulana Mushtaq Malik said that Muslims in India will never tolerate UCC, and it will be met with massive protests. He claimed, “We are against the UCC (Uniform Civil Code), and if it is forced upon us, the reaction will be the same as it was for the CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) and NRC (National Register of Citizens).”

The Maulana also said that BJP remains silent on issues of minority interest and an attempt is being made to make Muslims second-class citizens in the country.

He added, “The Muslims of the country will never tolerate it at all. Their (BJP) mouths are shut when it comes to minorities and are trying to relegate Muslims to the status of second-class citizens. This is where they are taking the country and are seeking to win elections based on communal polarization. As the first phase of voting draws near, the BJP has completely failed in its objective. The BJP failed to create polarisation in the election and Modi will not be able to get a third term and raise the national flag at Red Fort.”

The Islamic leader recently made bizarre arguments to counter CAA and alleged, “If India provides sanctuary, we will welcome it but you (Modi government) are discriminating because you have no topic at the moment. You failed in Ram Mandir. You attempted to make UCC a big deal in Uttarakhand, but you were unsuccessful there too. You demolished mosques and failed. You demolished the mosque and madrassa in Haldwani before the court order, yet, no polarization happened. The marriage act was repealed by Assam’s chief minister but polarization didn’t occur.”

The cleric also delivered a veiled threat and claimed that Muslims understand how and when to respond. “Muslims are aware as well. Muslims have reigned for seven centuries, as I mentioned. The Muslims must have a certain amount of intelligence. We are smarter than Union Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We know what to react and when. They anticipate a response from us. Now, that elections are approaching, we have no idea who will run in which jungle. We don’t know what will transpire. However, the issue about EVM is a different one. Whether they will win, form the government or not is to be seen.”

Israel calls off retaliatory strike on Iran after phone call between Netanyahu and Biden: Report

ANI
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Israel calls off retaliatory strike on Iran after phone call between Netanyahu and Biden: Report

Following a barrage of drone strikes fired by Iran on Saturday towards Israel, a New York Times report states that Israel decided to carry out a retailtory attack on Tehran on Sunday morning, however it was cancelled after a phone call took place between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the situation.

After Israel successfully intercepted Iranian missiles and drones, the Biden administration cautioned Tel Aviv to avoid escalation in the Middle East, The Jerusalem Post reported citing NYT.

More than 300 drones and missiles were intercepted by Israel, which US officials called a major strategic win while advising that further retailition is not required.

Israel’s war cabinet is set to convene later on Sunday to evaluate a response to Iran’s attack.

Notably, Netanyahu spoke with Biden, following meetings with the Security Cabinet and the War Cabinet, after Iran launched drones towards Israel on Saturday night in response to the air strike on its embassy in Syria.

The authorities , however, did not disclose the exchange between Biden and Netanyahu.

According to Jerusalem Post, Biden’s conversation with Netanyahu reiterated the US’ commitment to Israel’s security, which following the attacks, Biden called “ironclad.”

In his subsequent public statement, President Biden hinted at a preference for restraint and the need for careful consideration of the situation before any steps taken further.

Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, meanwhile said on Sunday that the confrontation between Iran and Israel is “not over yet.” His remarks came after Iran launched an attack on Israel the previous night.

Gallant said that Israel was attacked with missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles and Israel Defence Forces (IDF) thwarted the attack. He urged Israelis to remain “alert and attentive” to the instructions issued by the IDF and Homefront Command, according to CNN report.

He said, “The State of Israel was attacked with hundreds of missiles and [unmanned aerial vehicles], and the [Israel Defense Forces] thwarted this attack in an impressive manner.” He emphasised that Israel “must be prepared for every scenario.”

Gallant said, “Together with the United States and additional partners, we managed to defend the territory of the State of Israel.” He added, “Very little damage was caused – this is the result of the IDF’s impressive operations.”

Gallant is one of three members of Israel’s war cabinet, alongside Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz.

Iran launched its first direct attack on Israel on Saturday night, launching a barrage of 300 attack drones and missiles from its territory towards the Jewish state, triggering air raid sirens throughout Israel on Sunday morning as the military tried to intercept the Iranian projectiles, the Times of Israel reported. The onset of the assault was confirmed by IDF spokesman Hagari at 11 pm.

Alongside missile launches, Hagari noted that Iran also fired missiles at Israel, with “numerous” Israeli fighter jets swiftly mobilising to counter the attacks. Air raid sirens blared across Israel early Sunday, starting at 1:42 am in southern Israeli communities and soon spreading throughout the country and many towns in the West Bank.

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

‘Eat fish, pig, or elephant but why make it a show?’: Rajnath Singh lambasts opposition, says people on bail are threatening to send PM Modi to jail

OpIndia Staff
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‘Eat fish, pig, or elephant but why make it a show?’: Rajnath Singh lambasts opposition, says people on bail are threatening to send PM Modi to jail

On Sunday (14th April), Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched a scathing attack on the opposition bloc while addressing election rallies in Jamui and Banka districts in Bihar. He took a dig at RJD leader Tejaswi Yadav for his ‘fish-eating video’ and questioned their audacity in hurting the sentiments of devotees during Navratri and making it a show for ‘appeasement politics’. 

Addressing the rally in Jamui, the Defence Minister said, “You are eating fish during Navratri. What message do you want to send? You eat whatever you want, fish, pig, pigeon, elephant or horse. What is the need to show? This is only for votes, for appeasement politics. They think people of a particular religion will vote for them because of this. Lalu ji, I request you to handle such people.” He reiterated the same in his election rally in Banka. 

Rajnath Singh also came down heavily on the remarks made by the daughter of Lalu Yadav, Misa Bharti. She had earlier issued a threat of retribution stating that if they formed the government, Narendra Modi would be sent behind bars. 

Referring to Lalu Yadav as his friend, Defence Minister Singh responded to Misa Bharti’s remark stating, “What are his family members saying? They are saying that if they form the government, they will put Modi ji in jail.” 

Using the Hindi idiom, “Na nau man tel hoga na, na radha nachegi“, Singh categorically asserted that the dreams of the opposition to form a government would not be fulfilled. 

He added, “Those who are in jail or out on bail will send Modi ji to jail? The people of Bihar will tolerate everything, but not this.” 

In his Banka rally, Singh asked who has dared to jail PM Modi and firmly said in Hindi, “Kisne maa ka doodh piya hai jo Modi ji ko jail mein dalenge.“

Meanwhile, during his rallies, the Defence Minister also noted that PM Modi has been receiving invitations for functions scheduled abroad next year. He added that this shows that the “entire world believes his return to power is inevitable”. 

He said, “Election season is known to be volatile everywhere. People view these times with a degree of consternation, but not so in the case of India. The entire world believes PM Modi will be back for a third consecutive term in office.” He is already being invited abroad for functions that are to be held next year, Singh added.

Defence Minister highlights India’s growing power at the global level

The Defence Minister asserted that under Modi, India has transformed into a power “capable of repulsing cross-border terrorism as was seen during the surgical strikes”. 

He added, “Another example of India’s rise in global stature was the release of retired navy officials, who were awarded death sentence by a court in Qatar, following a telephone call from Modi to the head of the West Asian state.” 

He also highlighted PM Modi’s intervention in rescuing the retired Indian Navy veterans who were sentenced to death by the Qatari government safely back home. 

Singh said, “Our retired Navy veterans who were working in some companies in Qatar were sentenced to death…PM Modi had a talk with Qatar’s President and within 2-3 days their punishment was reversed and the retired Navy veterans were back in India. This is India’s power.”

In February, Qatar freed eight ex-Navy personnel previously employed by Dahra Global. They were detained by Qatari authorities in October 2022 on suspicion of spying on a submarine program. It is pertinent to note that seven out of the eight Indian Navy veterans returned to India in February itself, MEA had recently stated that it is fulfilling the requirements to bring back the stranded 8th ex-Indian Naval officer who is still in Qatar. 

Following a guilty verdict for espionage from the Qatari court, they were sentenced to death. The death sentence of the retired Navy personnel was commuted to a prolonged prison term after diplomatic negotiations between Qatar and India.

The prison sentence was further reduced after relatives of the Indian Navy veterans reached out to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), which promised to utilise all diplomatic avenues to facilitate their return.

According to reports, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s close rapport with the Emir of Qatar, coupled with the behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts led by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, played a pivotal role in securing the release of the Navy veterans.

Nonetheless, voting will be underway in Bihar in all phases of the Lok Sabha elections starting from April 19. The vote counting will occur on June 4.

Is being Hindu a crime in Jharkhand: BJP MP Nishikant Dubey receives notice after Mohammad Aftab files complaint over rescuing cows

OpIndia Staff
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Is being Hindu a crime in Jharkhand: BJP MP Nishikant Dubey receives notice after Mohammad Aftab files complaint over rescuing cows

Dr Nishikant Dubey, Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Godda Lok Sabha seat has been issued a notice by Mohanpur police station in Jharkhand’s Deoghar and summoned for questioning on 19th April. The notice has been sent against him in a case filed by an individual named Mohammad Aftab. The authorities claimed that the notice was issued for interrogation and assist with the investigation. Notably, a case has been brought against him despite the Supreme Court’s ruling on the matter.

The Jharkhand High Court has also stayed the case, according to Nishikant Dubey, however, he continues to be tortured in the name of questioning. A furious Nishikant Dubey asked whether the state government would torture him for protecting the cow, following the police notice. He also took to social media and slammed the Jharkhand government for tormenting him because of his religion. “I am a Sanatani, protecting cows is a part of my religion. The opposition loves a particular religion and hates Hindus. If I save cows, will the state government harass me? Have I committed a crime by being born in the Hindu religion?”

“The police station in-charge caught the cow. According to the Jharkhand government, a cow could only be transported to a state where cow slaughter is strictly prohibited, however, the cow was being transported to Bangladesh and although cow slaughter is not entirely banned in Bihar, the First Information Report claimed that the animal was being delivered to Dhoraiya. They were taking the cow to be killed in Bihar. We apprehended two cow smugglers, based on the FIR. You (state authorities) assisted them in getting away and registered an official complaint against a third person,” the BJP leader stated while talking to the media.

He added, “The court has stopped the probe into the matter. Even though the electoral commission has repeatedly reminded that it is improper to solicit votes in the names of cows, Hindus, or religion, you nevertheless brought up this issue during the poll. However, the government and administration acting under the direction of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leader and former chief minister Hemant Soren, who is currently in jail, are compelling me to do politics and seek votes in the name of religion.

He further charged, “I am not saying or doing it but on the other hand, the entire Jharkhand government has made a joke out of the Election Commission because I have saved cows and Hindus treat cow as their mother. India’s Constitution mentions that the slaughter of cows should be forbidden. I am instructed to present myself at the Mohanpur police station on 19th April at 10:30 am, and I will definitely go. I will reach there at 10 am.”

The case pertains to December 2023 when a man was carrying dozens of cows on the Mohanpur-Hansdiha road and was stopped by the parliamentarian and his security personnel. The cattle were freed later. The accused was apprehended by the cops at the time. Afterwards, Balthar village resident Mohammad Aftab submitted a complaint against the lawmaker who has now received a notice to join the inquiry from the case’s investigating officer.

‘Command’ & ‘Communication’ not same, this is master-slave bus: ECI schools Left-wing propagandist Ravi Nair on the basics of EVM and English language

OpIndia Staff
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‘Command’ & ‘Communication’ not same, this is master-slave bus: ECI schools Left-wing propagandist Ravi Nair on the basics of EVM and English language

Responding to a post by left-wing propagandist Ravi Nair aimed at casting aspersions on EVMs, the Election Commission of India (ECI) schooled him on Sunday (14th April) about the basic functioning of EVM machines. The poll body also highlighted the ‘difference’ between the basic English words ‘command’ and ‘communication’ to point out the mischievous blunder in Nair’s post.  

Notably, Ravi Nair, who writes for leftist propaganda outlets, The Wire and Newsclick (currently no posts are available) wrote a series of tweets to “bet” and “dare” that the “so-called constitutional body” will not answer his logical questions. 

Sharing a screenshot from FAQs on the functioning of EVM, he wrote, “Hello @ECISVEEP, you insist VVPAT doesn’t communicate with the Control Unit (CU) and is a “slave”. You said VSDU, which used to show the battery charge and the paper availability in the VVPAT, got integrated with the CU.” 

He asked, “Doesn’t the VVPAT communicate with the CU?” 

For those unversed, the opposition parties and its ecosystem have been beating the dead horse that EVMs can be hacked by altering inputs, faulty algorithms, and a host of other conspiracy theories that have been outrightly rejected by the top constitutional court in the country. After the introduction of VVPAT machines, they have been alleging that the votes in the EVM control unit can be manipulated through the VVPAT machine.

Ravi Nair alleged that because the VVPAT machine sends some data to the Control Unit, like battery charge and the paper availability, it means that VVPAT communicates with the CU, with the implication that this can be used to manipulate vote data stored in the control unit.

The EVM consists of three units, the control unit which stores the votes and controls the voting process, the ballot unit which is an input device used to cast the vote, and the VVPAT which prints the vote on a paper after it has been cast, cuts it and drops into a sealed box before showing the printed paper to the voter. Therefore, VVPAT is an output device, a printer that prints the vote.

Meanwhile, in subsequent posts, Nair went on to allege that there is “no Election Commission” in India. He also used phrasing like so-called and “constitutional” (in double quotes) body while referring to ECI and lamented that it is not a constitutional body. Pertinent to note that ECI draws its power from the constitution under Articles 324 and 329 and is thus a constitutional body.  

Nair ranted, “Bet me, @ECISVEEP, the so-called constitutional body, won’t dare to answer any logical questions like this. Because those who are sitting in these “constitutional” positions are appointed by the Modi Government.”

In another post, he wrote, “There is no “Election Commission” in India now. India has Modi’s commissioners for elections.” 

Responding to his ulterior motives of casting aspersions on EVM cloaked as “logical questions”, the ECI explained factual inaccuracies in Nair’s post, pointing that these doubts are already cleared in the FAQ published by the ECI. The selected query refers to Q16 in ECI’s FAQ under the section of Technical Features & Safeguards.

The ECI replied, “Only CU {command Unit} can give ‘Commands’ to VVPAT & BU (Ballot Unit) and they will provide ‘Response’ to CU. This is Master-Slave bus architecture​. ​Communication can either be a ’Command’ or ‘Response’. Do not get confused between ‘Command’ &  ‘Communication’  & interchange terms.” 

Urging him to read properly, the poll body added, “Pls reread ​the FAQ you have quoted ​and also see Annexure 1 in the same FAQ for your clarity! Only CU can send ‘command’. CU is the Master !!” 

The ECI also posted a chart from the annexure of the FAQ on EVMs, which shows that VVPAT only receives commands from the Control Unit and sends confirmation of execution of commands, and it can’t send any command to CU because it is connected to the CU via a Master-Slave bus architecture​.

​The functioning of an M3 EVM can be understood with a simple analogy of Input and output devices communicating through the CPU in computer terminology. Like in the CPU in the computer, the Control Unit in M3 EVMs works as a Control Unit (CU) and communication between BU (Ballot Unit) and VVPAT takes place via CU. 

(Image source – ECI)

In simple words, the signal flow diagram is as follows – 

1. Input to CU (Master Unit) – The ballot button on CU is pressed by the Presiding officer to start a single voting. 

2. This signal (from CU) enables the BU machine to allow the voter to cast his/her franchise. 

3. Voter has to press the candidate key of his/her franchise on the ballot unit, which is a slave unit. It is like a keyboard on a computer, used only to input data.

4. Now, after the voter presses a button to cast the vote, the BU conveys the voter’s choice of key pressed to CU. ECI clarified that this is just a communication and not a command.

5. After receiving the voting choice, CU sends the command to VVPAT to print the ballot slip for the key pressed by the voter and confirm proper printing. Now, this is a aommand from CU to the VVPAT, to print the symbol of the candidate selected by the voter.

6. VVPAT prints the slip accordingly and sends the confirmation of printing of the ballot slip to the CU. Again, this is a communication that the print command has been executed, and not a command.

7. After that, CU sends the command to VVPAT to cut the printed ballot slip and confirm, which is a command to VVPAT.

8. VVPAT cuts the slip and sends the confirmation that the ballot slip has been cut and dropped, which is a confirmation communication.

9. At last, CU records the vote and confirms with a Buzzer sound, after which the EVM is locked, which needs to be released for the next by pressing the ballot button on the CU.

This entire process shows that the VVPAT works just like a printer, it executes commands received from the CU, and only sends confirmation that the command has been executed successfully. It can’t send any other information to alter any data to the CU, like the left-liberal lobby is claiming.

Nonetheless, while the ECI didn’t respond to politically motivated slurs hurled at the institution, it’s pertinent to note that the appointment of Election Commissioners by a panel (earlier by the government) is a democratic procedure that has been followed since Independence. This process has remained consistent over the years and is not an autocratic measure introduced at will by any administration. It doesn’t strip the stature of ECI as a constitutional body and it doesn’t compromise the integrity of the Election body to hold free and fair elections, as the same has scrutiny of law.

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