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Anti-Hindu Delhi Riots: Umar Khalid was in touch with Swara Bhaskar, Sushant Singh, Alt News, Pooja Bhatt, set false narrative on social media and media, prosecution reads WhatsApp chats

OpIndia Staff
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Anti-Hindu Delhi Riots: Umar Khalid was in touch with Swara Bhaskar, Sushant Singh, Alt News, Pooja Bhatt, set false narrative on social media and media, prosecution reads WhatsApp chats

On 9th April, Delhi Karkardooma Court heard the prosecution’s arguments in Umar Khalid‘s bail matter. Umar Khalid is one of the accused in a larger conspiracy case in the anti-Hindu Delhi Riots 2020.

In his arguments, the prosecution cited a previous judgment where the court rejected Khalid’s bail to prove that a surface-level analysis of the evidence in the matter was already done while denying bail. In the judgment, it was said that Khalid is connected with many accused, and all evidence must be seen in totality.

Furthermore, the court noted in the previous judgment, “In a case of conspiracy, it is not necessary that the accused is present at the spot.” It is crucial, as Khalid’s lawyer argued he was not present at the scene when the riots broke out. Furthermore, the court had said, “On perusal of chargesheet and documents, the court had decided that the case against Umar Khalid is prima facie true.”

The prosecution also pointed out that Khalid’s bail plea was rejected by the Delhi High Court. He added that the defence’s argument presented in the court for the ongoing matter in the last hearing was already made in front of the Sessions and High Court, where bail pleas were denied.

In its judgment, the prosecution mentioned that the High Court had said, “We have examined material part of CS. Material available in totality has to be considered while granting or rejecting bail. The name of Umar Khalid finds repeated mention from the beginning of conspiracy till the end of the riots.” The prosecution added that the High Court had “fully agreed” with the Sessions Court’s decision to reject the bail plea and said the accusations appear to be prima facie valid.

Speaking on the defence’s argument that there were discrepancies in the chargesheet, the prosecution said the present case was for bail and not discharge. “It has to be rested at the time of cross-examination. The detailed examination of evidence of the merits of the case is not to be taken at the bail stage, which might negatively affect the trial,” the prosecution added.

Furthermore, the prosecution also discussed the portions of the previous judgment where CDR analysis was discussed. The prosecution said, “The CDR is a matter of evidence, and the veracity can be confirmed only during cross-examination—this is a matter of trial.”

The prosecution made the argument to point out that the Sessions and High Court had previously heard all of the defence arguments in this hearing. The arguments were evaluated, and bail was denied. Notably, the defence had argued that the High Court previously did not do a surface-level analysis of the evidence and hence asked the court to do that and grant bail. Countering his argument, the prosecution said that the study was done, and only after that was the bail denied by The High Court.

Furthermore, the prosecution replied to the allegations laid down by the defence in the argument about the “vicious media trial” against Umar Khalis. The prosecution said that the defence made an application before the court supported by an affidavit and claimed that SC was pleased to “dismiss SLP”.

The prosecution cited the Supreme Court’s order in the Natasha case, where the court specifically said that the judgement wouldn’t be treated as precedent. Here, the prosecution basically noted that the defence was not accurate when the Supreme Court said they were “pleased to dismiss SLP.”

The prosecution said, “The SC has made the embargo in interim direction clear and final.” The prosecution pointed out that parity cannot be sought based on bail for Natasha, Devangana, etc., as the SC said the order won’t be taken as a precedent.

The prosecution said, “3 people have been let out on bail. They have been let out by lifting the embargo. The HC has upheld the bar of 43D5. The courts have done a surface analysis of evidence in Umar Khalid’s case by both courts even before Vernon’s judgement. Therefore, the case remains unaffected by Vernon. Both cases have also said that 43D5 will remain. The others were given bail on an order lifting embargo of 43D5 – but also said it will NOT be treated as precedent. It means “it was not by law”.”

Pointing out the delay in the trial, the prosecution went through the list of adjournments sought by Umar Khalid himself. Out of 14 times, seven adjournments were sought by Khalid in the Supreme Court. The prosecution’s mention of the adjournments sought by Khalid shows that there was essentially a concerted effort to delay the trial so that they could later claim the delay as grounds for demanding bail. This particular point was raised by the prosecution in a hearing in 2023, and the trial said, “People on bail are trying to stall hearings so that those in jail can demand bail on the argument of delay.”

‘Umar Khalid has a habit of creating media and SM narrative’, said the prosecution

During the arguments, the prosecution pointed out that the cellphone data shows he was in the habit of creating media and SM narrative. The prosecution named several celebrities and activists who were in contact with Khalid. Notably, Khalid regularly sent them reports by The Wire, The Quint and other publications to set a narrative on social media and several of them were shared by the said celebrities and activists.

Conversation With Jignesh Mewani

The prosecution mentioned WhatsApp chants between Umar and Jignesh Mevani. He pointed out that Khalid sent Jignesh a link to a report by The Wire and requested that he share it on Twitter.

Conversation with Yogendra Yadav

The prosecution shared a conversation between Yogendra Yadav and Khalid. Yadav confirmed he had tweeted what Umar had asked to.

Conversation with Pooja Bhatt

The same message to propagate “#FreeDrKafeel” was forwarded to Pooja Bhatt.

Umar Khalid in conversation with Sushant Singh and Raghu Karand

Khalid shared an article by The Quint with Karand and Sushant, which Sushant then shared on Twitter.

Messages in the WA group ‘Hum Bharat Ke Log’

In the “Hum Bharat Ke Log” group, he requested to schedule protests after the Supreme Court hearing. He urged the members to issue an official statement on the arrest of “students of Jamia.” He also encouraged everyone to use specific hashtags so the posts could trend on social media.

Conversation With Rasika

In May 2020, he had a conversation with Rasika, and he said he needed help amplifying social media posts.

Umar Khalid in conversation with Sanjukta

Khalid shared a link with Sanjukta and asked her to push a report by The Quint where Zuckerberg called out Kapil Mishra.

Later, In June, Umar asked her to amply Quint’s report, to which she replied that it was already done and shared the link to the post.

Conversation with Swara Bhaskar

In the conversation about Kafeel Khan, Further, Khalid told Swara that Kolkata Park Circus Shaheen Bagh wanted her to join.

Conversation with Onir

He shared The Quint report with Onir, which he shared on Twitter.

Umar Khalid and Alt News’s Archit’s conversation

Khalid also contacted the Alt News team. Alt News asked if they could quote Umar Khalid, but Umar Khalid said he didn’t want to be quoted, so AltNews complied.

The prosecution also mentioned chats with Harjit Singh Bhatti and Shal Mali. Bhatti was assured that Khalid Saifi would be admitted to AIIMS. Furthermore, Anu Chenoy put Shal and Khalid in touch.

The prosecution pointed out how Khalid used the media to circulate his messages. He said, “Umar Khalid wrote the letter to the Delhi commissioner. He gave it to the media. The media published it, and then the articles were circulated internally. This is what is called procuring witnesses.”

The prosecution then played an interview of Khalid’s father with The Wire’s Arfa Sherwani to show how he was lying and creating a narrative. Arfa talks about how Umar is not getting bail and how his father’s petition has been withdrawn from the SC. Arfa asked his father why he didn’t get bail and if he still trusted the judiciary. Ilyas talked about 14 adjournments and how it felt when there were deliberate delays. Earlier, defence refrained from informing the court that Khalid’s father was ex-SIMI member.

Further hearing in the matter will occur on 10 April at 3 PM.

‘Modi bhakt hai Mahakal ka, jhukta hai keval janta ya Mahakal ke saamne’: PM Modi slams I.N.D.I. Alliance for issuing threats to him 

OpIndia Staff
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‘Modi bhakt hai Mahakal ka, jhukta hai keval janta ya Mahakal ke saamne’: PM Modi slams I.N.D.I. Alliance for issuing threats to him 

On Tuesday (9th April), Prime Minister Narendra Modi came down heavily on the I.N.D.I. Alliance asserting that those who have come to fill their coffers (scammers/corrupts) should not issue threats to Modi. He added, “Modi jhukta hai to janta Janardan ke samne ya Mahakal ke samne”. (Translation – Modi only bows before the public or before Mahakaal.) 

Addressing a rally in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi said, “For Modi, my India is my family. Those who have joined politics to fill their coffers, should not give threats to Modi…Modi bhakt hai Mahakal ka. Modi jhukta hai to janta Janardan ke samne ya Mahakal ke saamne.“

PM Modi added that he would not be deterred by I.N.D.I. Alliance’s “Geedar Bhabki” (empty/false threats). 

The Prime Minister further stated, “I am a bhakt of Mahakal. I have learned to bring anti-national forces to Justice. We are not afraid of these Geedar Bhabki. People of the I.N.D.I. Alliance are angry with Modi. For doing the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lala (in Ayodhya), these people abuse Modi. The I.N.D.I. Alliance has entered the field vowing to end Sanatan Dharma. Hundreds of crores of cash are being received from their parties. Congress people are trying to save corrupt people. I guarantee you that I will retrieve the money of corruption from every locker it has gone into. This work will be done even faster in the next five years.”

Notably, several I.N.D.I. Alliance leaders, including Congress leader Pawan Khera, while claiming a ‘witch hunt’ by central agencies had issued threats that if they “get ED for a week or so”, the incumbent PM and HM, BJP leaders Narendra Modi and Amit Shah respectively, will “line up to join them”.

Meanwhile, during his Balaghat rally, PM Modi urged voters to wipe out the Congress party again from the state. Taking a dig at internal fight in the opposition bloc, he said, “Four-five months ago, you came together to completely wipe out Congress in the (Madhya Pradesh) Assembly polls. Now in the Lok Sabha polls, they are not fighting with the BJP, they (referring to I.N.D.I.A. bloc) are fighting amongst each other.” 

Taking a swipe at the Congress party’s functioning style, PM Modi stated, “Congress still cannot get rid of its old mentality. When the first Adivasi woman came forward to become the President of the country, the Congress party left no stone unturned to defeat her.”

Highlighting the importance of upcoming elections for Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister asserted, “The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are a crucial election of the India of 21st century. This is not just an election…It is a mission of construction of new India.”

PM Modi also highlighted a slew of achievements of his government in the last ten years adding that it was just a trailer. Using the analogy of ‘Phuljari’ and rockets (crackers for Diwali), he explained that the development works undertaken during the ten years of the Modi government were for laying the groundwork for a developed India.

Prime Minister Modi also emphasised that there is a notable change in India’s global standing. He highlighted that while the Congress government used to seek international aid for its issues in the past, now the tables have turned. He noted that many nations, even those in conflict with each other, now reach out to India to address their worries. This acknowledgment elevates the spirits of every Indian, he remarked.

‘Not going to get in the middle of this’: US steers clear, refuses to comment on Pakistan’s claims about India getting terrorists assassinated

OpIndia Staff
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‘Not going to get in the middle of this’: US steers clear, refuses to comment on Pakistan’s claims about India getting terrorists assassinated

On Monday (8th April), the United States said that it “will not get into the middle of the situation” following allegations by Pakistan on India and has urged both countries to avoid escalation of tensions and resolve differences via dialogue.

The response by US Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller came after he was asked about Washington’s stance on a recent UK media report citing Pakistani officials alleging that India carried killings of individuals associated with terrorism and extremism on Pakistani soil.

Indian officials have termed the allegations as “false and malicious anti-India propaganda.”

“We have been following the media reports about this issue. We don’t have any comment on the underlying allegations, but of course, while we’re not going to get in the middle of this situation, we encourage both sides to avoid escalation and find a resolution through dialogue,” Matthew Miller said during a press briefing.

Miller said this when he was asked about the US response to the recent report in The Guardian newspaper.

Earlier, in January too, Pakistan’s attempts to link India with the deaths of two Pakistani nationals were dismissed by the Ministry of External Affairs with official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal terming it as “peddling false and malicious anti-India propaganda”.

Jaiswal had said, “We have seen media reports regarding certain remarks by Pakistan Foreign Secretary. It is Pakistan’s latest attempt at peddling false and malicious anti-India propaganda. As the world knows, Pakistan has long been the epicentre of terrorism, organised crime, and illegal transnational activities.”

“India and many other countries have publicly warned Pakistan, cautioning that it would be consumed by its own culture of terror and violence. Pakistan will reap what it sows. To blame others for its own misdeeds can neither be a justification nor a solution,” he added.

Jaiswal made the remarks after Pakistan Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi claimed Islamabad had “credible evidence” of links between Indian agents and the assassination of two Pakistani nationals in Sialkot and Rawalkot–Shahid Latif and Muhammad Riaz.

As OpIndia reported earlier, in the past few months, unknown gunmen have been making headlines for selectively targeting terrorists on foreign soil, from Pakistan to Canada. So far, around 21 terrorists have been killed on foreign soil by these unknown men, of which, the maximum were eliminated in Pakistan.

Among the targets eliminated by unknown men were Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists like Riyaz Ahmed, Mufti Qaiser Farooq, Khwaja Shahid alias Mia Mujahid, Akram Khan Ghazi, Mohammed Muzammil, Sajid Mir, Hanzala Adnan, LeT chief Hafiz Saeed’s son Ibrahim Kamaluddin.

In addition to LeT terrorists, the unknown men have killed many Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists including the 2016 Pathankot attack’s mastermind Shahid Latif. Alongside LeT and JeM, the unidentified assailants have also eliminated some terrorists belonging to another Pakistan-based terrorist outfit ‘Al-Badr’. A detailed list published by OpIndia of terrorists killed by unknown men in recent months can be checked here.

Notably, British propaganda newspaper The Guardian had recently published a contentious article titled ‘Indian government ordered killings in Pakistan, intelligence officials claim.’ Relying on anonymous sources, the article attempted to demonise PM Modi as a facilitator of ‘extra-territorial killings.’

Based on claims by its Pakistani sources, The Guardian accused the Modi government of neutralising a whopping 20 terrorists on Pakistani soil through its ‘sleeper cells’ in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The British newspaper alleged that India began this policy of killing terrorists on foreign soil following the deadly Pulwama terror attack of 2019, which claimed the lives of 40 Indian jawans. This propaganda piece with numerous factual errors was dismissed by the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs as “false and malicious anti-India propaganda.”

(With inputs from ANI)

Delhi HC dismisses Kejriwal’s plea against his arrest by ED in liquor policy case, asserts that ED’evidence shows his involvement

OpIndia Staff
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Delhi HC dismisses Kejriwal’s plea against his arrest by ED in liquor policy case, asserts that ED’evidence shows his involvement

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday came down hard on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with a plea challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in the Liquor Policy scam.

Making grave observations against the involvement of CM Kejriwal, the Delhi HC said the evidence shows he conspired and was actively involved in the use and proceeds of the crime.

“The evidence gathered by the ED indicates that Mr Arvind Kejriwal conspired and played an active role in the utilization and concealment of proceeds of crime. The ED’s case also suggests his involvement both in a personal capacity and as the convenor of AAP.”

The Delhi HC also dismissed the defendant’s aspersions over the statements of the approver considered in the case. The court noted, “The law of approver is over 100 years old and not one year old. it cannot be suggested that it was enacted to implicate the present petitioner (Kejriwal), says Delhi HC it reads out the verdict.”

“The investigating agency in criminal jurisprudence cannot be instructed to conduct an investigation based on the convenience of an individual. The investigation will proceed according to its own course,” the court said in the plea filed by Kejriwal.

The court said it won’t lay down different categories of laws, one for common citizens and another for granting special privileges to a Chief Minister.

Kejriwal’s plea against his arrest by ED was dismissed by the Delhi HC. The Delhi CM is currently in the Tihar Jail in the liquor policy case under judicial custody.

Threats to judicial autonomy in Pakistan: Judges accuse ISI of undue interference, indicating a dangerous mix of politics and military in judiciary

Amit Kelkar
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Threats to judicial autonomy in Pakistan: Judges accuse ISI of undue interference, indicating a dangerous mix of politics and military in judiciary

The recent tumult within Pakistan’s judicial system, exemplified by the courageous stand taken by judges from the Islamabad High Court, casts a sombre light on the diminishing independence of the judiciary. Their letter addressed to the Supreme Court, accusing the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of undue interference, underscores a distressing reality concerning the nation’s democratic integrity. 

Adding fuel to the fire, the discovery of threatening letters containing anthrax, was sent to Chief Justice of Pakistan along with few of judges who dared to challenge the status quo. These incidents not only endanger individual lives but also pose a grave threat to the fundamental tenets of democracy and the rule of law. At the heart of the matter lies the alleged politicization of judicial affairs, skewing the balance of justice in favour of vested interests. Such manipulation undermines the principle of impartiality, corroding the very essence of a fair and just legal system.

The prevailing sentiment suggests that the recent endeavours may be rendered fruitless, given the historical context. During the PTI administration in 2018, the dismissal of Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui was later acknowledged as ‘wrongful’ by the Supreme Judicial Council in March 2024. Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui himself publicly accused operatives of the ISI, led by Major General Faiz Hameed, of influencing the constitution of benches at the Islamabad High Court and meddling with the proceedings of the accountability court in Islamabad. If these allegations hold true, it raises serious questions about the impartiality of verdicts issued by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Islamabad High Court (IHC), particularly those concerning former Prime Minister Imran Khan, potentially impacting his eligibility to contest in general elections.

These developments are perceived as repercussions of the events that unfolded on May 9th and previous controversies involving the Prime Minister and the Pakistan Army. Similar conspiracies have been witnessed in Pakistan’s past, indicating a recurrent pattern of interference and manipulation within the judicial system. This dangerous precedent jeopardizes the foundation of democracy itself.

The complicity of the establishment in these events cannot be ignored. Instead of safeguarding democratic institutions, it appears to be aiding in the erosion of judicial autonomy since independence, paving the way for what can be described as authoritarian regime. This facade of democracy masks a systematic weakening of its core principles. In essence, the current scenario paints a grim picture of democracy in Pakistan. The autonomy of the judiciary, a cornerstone of any democratic society, hangs in the balance. All stakeholders must unite in confronting this challenge and reaffirming their commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to delve deeper into the ramifications of these developments. Interference in judicial matters not only compromises the independence of the judiciary but also undermines public trust in the institution. When the judiciary is perceived as a pawn in political games, its legitimacy is called into question.

Furthermore, the intimidation tactics deployed against the judiciary through threatening letters are an outright assault on judicial freedom and safety. Such actions foster an environment of fear and coercion, potentially hindering the judiciary’s ability to fulfil its duties without bias or influence.

The complicit role of the establishment raises serious concerns about its commitment to democracy and accountability. Instead of upholding democratic principles, it appears to be compounding the challenges faced by the judiciary, further eroding the foundations of democracy.

The emergence of a hybrid regime threatens to subvert the very essence of democracy, undermining its core values of equality, freedom, and justice. This trend necessitates a collective effort to safeguard democracy from within, lest it be dismantled by the very forces meant to protect it.

In conclusion, the current state of affairs within Pakistan’s judiciary serves as a stark reminder of democracy’s fragility. It underscores the urgent need to preserve and fortify judicial independence. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders to heed this warning and work towards restoring the principles of democracy and the rule of law. The future of the nation hinges on it.

You can’t escape your liability: Supreme Court asks Bhima Koregaon violene accused ‘Urban Naxal’ Gautam Navlakha to pay Rs 1.64 crores spent on his security cover

OpIndia Staff
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You can’t escape your liability: Supreme Court asks Bhima Koregaon violene accused ‘Urban Naxal’ Gautam Navlakha to pay Rs 1.64 crores spent on his security cover

On Tuesday (9th April), the Supreme Court slammed the Bhima Koregaon case accused Gautam Navlakha, directing him to pay the dues for the security cover given to him during his house arrest. Notably, during the last hearing while opposing his bail plea, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had submitted before the bench that the Urban Naxal, Navlakha owed Rs 1.64 crore as expenses for the security provided to him during his house arrest.

The bench comprising Justices MM Sundresh and SVN Bhatti hearing the matter had been apprised that the plea for house arrest was made by Navlakha on grounds of health issues. 

During the hearing, the bench remarked, “If you have asked for it (house arrest), you have to pay (the costs for security cover). You cannot escape your liability.”

Advocate Shadan Farasat (representing Navlakha) contested the calculation claiming that they have no issues paying up for the security cover. Retorting to it, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju rubbished it as an ‘excuse’ arguing that they were trying to avoid payment. He remarked, “Every time they say this. I want to see the currency paper (payment), not your (Navalkha’s counsel) file.”

Following the arguments, the bench asked Navlakha’s counsel to submit their objections (about calculations). Subsequently, the court listed the matter for 23rd April when it would hear the issue and decide on his pleas. 

During the last hearing, ASG Raju informed the bench that Navlakha, arrested in the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case, had only paid ₹ 10 lakh till now as part of expenses incurred for round-the-clock security.

Appearing for the accused Navlakha, Senior advocate Nitya Ramakrishnan had disputed the figure of Rs 1.64 crore. She alleged that the agency’s calculation of the payable amount was wrong and went on to accuse the agency of “extortion”.

Ramakrishnan claimed, “They cannot demand one crore from citizens for keeping them in custody.”

Responding to her argument, the ASG replied that citizens are not entitled to house arrest and strongly objected to the use of the term “extortion”.

The developments in the Gautam Navlakha case

The case relates to the inflammatory speeches made at the Elgar Parishad conclave held in Pune on 31st December 2017. A day after the inflammatory speeches, violence erupted near the Koregaon-Bhima war memorial on the outskirts of the western Maharashtra city. According to the Police, the speeches had triggered the violence. 

Gautam Navlakha, having Maoist links, was arrested by Pune police from Delhi on August 28, 2018, in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon – Elgar Parishad case. Initially, he was kept under house arrest. However, following a Supreme Court order, he was sent to judicial custody in Taloja Central Prison in April 2020.

The Urban Naxal Navlakha has been under house arrest at a public library in Mumbai since November 2022. On 10th November 2022, the SC granted ‘house arrest’ of Gautam Navlakha on ‘medical grounds’ despite vehement opposition by the probing agency. 

Later, on 19th December 2023, the Bombay High Court granted him bail. In its order, the division bench comprising Justices AS Gadkari and SG Dige noted that Navlakha merely intended to commit the terrorist act and did not attempt the same. However, the court stayed its order accepting NIA’s request to file an appeal before the Supreme Court. 

The NIA had opposed his bail application, submitting that he had been introduced to a General from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for recruitment, indicating his connection with the organisation.

Meanwhile, in these hearings, the Supreme Court has been extending this stay on HC’s order granting bail to the Urban Naxal, Gautam Navlakha.

Evidently, while concluding today’s hearing, Justice MM Sundresh remarked, “We will extend the interim stay on bail also till then (23rd April, next date of hearing). Navlakha’s regular bail plea is accordingly adjourned.” 

Vadodara: Beef supplier Imran Qureshi arrested in beef-stuffed samosa case, earlier 6 accused including ‘Huseni Samosa Center’ owners were arrested

OpIndia Staff
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Vadodara: Beef supplier Imran Qureshi arrested in beef-stuffed samosa case, earlier 6 accused including ‘Huseni Samosa Center’ owners were arrested

On Saturday (6th April), Gujarat Police raided a Vadodara-based samosa shop, ‘Huseni Samosa center’, and arrested six persons, including eatery owners Yusuf and Naeem Sheikh for selling samosas stuffed with beef. The six accused were sent to one-day police custody by the court on Sunday. During interrogation, the eatery owners revealed the name of their beef supplier as Bhalej resident Imran Yusuf Qureshi. On Monday (8th April), the Vadodara Police arrested Imran in this case. 

During the raids in the Chhipwad area, the Police seized the stock following which the FSL report confirmed that the meat stuffed in Samosa was ‘beef’ (cow meat). Police investigation revealed that the owners of this samosa shop were operating the eatery without a license.

Speaking with the Indian Express, Zone 4 Deputy Commissioner of Police, Panna Momaya said, “The accused used to supply ready-to-fry samosas to the stalls and shops selling meat samosas across the city. They also sold ready-to-eat samosas from their own shop in Chhipwad in the old city area. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report has now confirmed that the seized meat was beef. The accused used beef to extract maximum profit from the business, selling it to unsuspecting customers. The owners did not have any license from the civic body to run the shop.” 

The DCP added that during the raid the police also seized 61 kg of prepared ready-to-fry samosas. After receiving the FSL report, police also seized bowl and crusher machines worth Rs 49,000.

He added that the seven accused have been booked under Section 8 and Section 10 of the Gujarat Animal Preservation (Amendment) Bill 2017, which prescribes penalties for contravention of the anti-cow slaughter law.

As per reports, the accused Imran was previously working in a meat exporting company. He is originally from Dahod and has been staying with his wife and mother for the last three to four years. While working at a butcher shop in Vadodara, he came in contact with the other accused. After this, he came to Bhalej and started supplying beef-laced samosas. 

A tip-off led Police to bust the beef supply racket

On Saturday, the police raided the eatery shop in the Chhipwad area after receiving information from a local animal activist Neha Patel. Patel, who runs an animal cruelty prevention organisation, got the information that the samosas were stuffed with beef and approached the police. 

Acting on the tip-off, the Local Crime Branch of Vadodara City Zone 4 raided the eatery and seized a total of 113 kg of beef as well as 152 kg of the filling prepared to make the samosas from the popular ‘Hussaini Samosa’ suppliers. 

Regarding this entire incident, DCP Panna Momaya said, “On April 6, a raid was conducted on Huseni Samosa Center at Panigate based on information. More than 300 kg of meat was recovered from there. FSL investigation revealed it to be beef. 6 were arrested along with 4 people working in the shop, including shop owners Mohammad Yusuf Sheikh and Naeem Sheikh.” 

The DCP further said, “During remand interrogation, the accused confessed that Imran alias Daudi Yusuf Qureshi of Bhalej was supplying them with this quantity of beef. Along with this, Bhalej’s supplier Imran Qureshi has also been arrested.”

(Six accused arrested on Saturday in Huseni Samosa Center selling beef-laced Samosa, Image Coutersy – Desh Gujarat)

The arrested accused include Yusuf and Naeem Sheikh, the owners, as well as employees Hanif Bhathiyara, Dilawar Pathan, Moin Habdal, and Mobin Sheikh. The seventh accused, the beef supplier from Bhalej, Imran Qureshi was arrested two days later from his home. 

As per reports, the accused operated from a five-story facility with one room transformed into a deep freezer to keep beef and other meat. Yusuf Sheikh told the police that he joined his father’s samosa business. However, investigations revealed that they did not have a license to run the shop.

Meanwhile, according to officials, many people in the city ate these beef samosas.

“Thanks to PM Modi”: Victim of October 7 Hamas terror attack lauds Indian support for Israel

ANI
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“Thanks to PM Modi”: Victim of October 7 Hamas terror attack lauds Indian support for Israel

As the Israel-Hamas war completed its six months, Moran, a survivor of the October 7 attack, conveyed appreciation towards India and its people for their steadfast support during a challenging period.

Moran’s words reflect the profound bond shared between the two nations in times of adversity.

“I see the Indian support that started much before, years before October 7 and after October 7,” Moran expressed, highlighting the enduring nature of India’s solidarity, adding, “Thanks to Prime Minister Modi, all over the media. And we know that India is a true friend of Israel.”

Moran’s gratitude extended beyond governmental assistance, acknowledging the compassion and friendship displayed by the Indian populace. “I think it’s not just the Indian government. Thanks to the Indian people, who have always been and continue to be a good friend of ours,” Moran added, emphasising the collective support from India.

Acknowledging India’s role in amplifying Israel’s voice globally, Moran added, “Our voice cannot be everywhere. Everywhere. And we know that the Indian people are taking care of everything we need.”

“Thank you very much to the government, but for the people as well,” Moran expressed, encapsulating the depth of gratitude towards India’s unwavering support.

Israel’s Ambassador to India Naor Gilon too has said India has been very strong against terrorism from the first moment. He said that Israel is appreciative of the Indian government’s support since Hamas launched the attack on October 7.

In an interview with ANI on January 30, Gilon said that Israel has received “incredible support” from Indian people amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Speaking about India’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, Gilon said, “India was very strong against terrorism from the first moment. Prime Minister Modi, on the afternoon of October 7, already came out with a very strong condemnation. We are much appreciative of the Indian government for its support from that time on.

The war in Gaza continues after Israel launched a counter-offensive in response to the Hamas attack on October 7.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the first global leaders to condemn the horrific terror attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7.

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

Tihar jail is getting overcrowded because of this: Delhi High Court slams AAP government’s education department over ‘sad state of affairs’ in govt schools

OpIndia Staff
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Tihar jail is getting overcrowded because of this: Delhi High Court slams AAP government’s education department over ‘sad state of affairs’ in govt schools

On Monday (8th April), the Delhi High Court came down heavily on the Delhi government’s Education Department over the lack of basic facilities like textbooks, notebooks, furniture, and the shortage of classrooms in Aam Aadmi Party government-run schools in Delhi. Reprimanding the CM Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government for its negligence, the court said that the Delhi government is responsible for jails like Tihar getting overcrowded since schools are not functioning properly.

A division bench of Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora took cognisance of a report submitted by advocate Ashok Agarwal representing petitioner NGO ‘Social Jurist, A Civil Rights Group’, which had been asked by the court to visit the district’s schools in the previous hearing.

The schools in question are GGSSS Khajoori Khas, GGSSS East Gokal Pur, SKV C-1 Yamuna Vihar, SKV Khajoori Khas, GGSSS Sonia Vihar, newly constructed SKV Sriram Colony Khajoori Khas, GGSSS Bhajanpura, GGSSS Dayalpur, GGSSS Sabhapur and SKV Khader Badarpur.

“You are the secretary. You should have known all this. Why do I have to call you? You should be going on ground level on your own. That is your job… Your job is affecting lives of young children. They are in charge of education. You are not supposed to just publish announcements in newspapers that schools are hunky dory. There are 144 children in one classroom… This is very sad state of affairs,” the bench said.

“Problem is no senior functionary’s child is studying in these schools, therefore, you don’t get any feedback… No wonder Delhi jails are full. The capacity of Tihar is 10,000, but it has 23,000 inmates. This is because schools are not functioning. Do you understand the correlation?” the bench added.

Agarwal said that one of the district’s schools GGSSS Bhajanpura was run in a tin building. Here, around 1800 girls and 1800 boys study in morning and evening shifts respectively. Moreover, in SKV C-1 Block Yamuna Vihar, Agarwal said that two sections are often merged in a single classroom due to a serious shortage of classrooms. This is a double shift school where around 5000 to 6000 girl students study in the morning shift and a similar number of boys in the afternoon shift.

The court stated that the authorities’ “lack of planning” resulted in “apathy” among the students for school, and that accountability must be fixed for the officials. It further questioned how children were supposed to study in a tin building during the summer heat.

The bench also stated verbally that broken furniture in school classrooms should be repaired and maintained on a regular basis, as it was not broken “yesterday”. According to the report submitted by Ashok Agarwal, due to a lack of classrooms, children from two sections have to sit together in the same classroom, where one section is taught one subject by a teacher and the other section is taught a completely different subject by another teacher.

The bench, then asked the senior official, “Did you take any action against your officers? You have to take action against your junior officers. Why aren’t they telling you what is happening at the ground level? We should not have to call you to court and tell you, you must know. Now you are confirming the facts in the report.”

The court directed the Secretary (Education) to file a detailed affidavit within a week and listed the matter for 23rd April.

“The Secretary (Education) assures and undertakes to the court that he will take steps to drastically improve the situation in a time-bound manner. He assures this court that there is no shortage of funds. He states that books, furniture, and writing materials shall be provided to all the students. Let a detailed affidavit be filed by the Secretary to the report. The secretary shall also fix the responsibility on the officials who have been remiss in performing their duties,” the bench said in its order.

Indian student Mohammed Abdul Arfath found dead in the US under mysterious circumstances. Here are the 10 other cases from 2024 alone

OpIndia Staff
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Indian student Mohammed Abdul Arfath found dead in the US under mysterious circumstances. Here are the 10 other cases from 2024 alone

An Indian student who has been missing since March this year has been found dead in the US state of Ohio, the Consulate General of India in New York said on Tuesday.

The Consulate said it is “anguished” to learn about the death of Mohammed Abdul Arfath and is in touch with local authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into his death.

“Anguished to learn that Mr. Mohammed Abdul Arfath, for whom search operation was underway, was found dead in Cleveland, Ohio. Our deepest condolences to Mr Mohammed Arfath’s family, the Consulate General of India in New York said in a post on X.

It said that all possible assistance is being extended to the bereaved family to transport his mortal remains to India.

Arafat, a native of Hyderabad, went to the US for his Master’s degree in IT from Cleveland University in May 2023 but was missing since March 7 this year.

His father, Mohd Saleem, said that after ten days, they received a phone call from an unidentified person who claimed Arafat had been kidnapped and demanded a USD 1200 ransom for his release.

On March 21, the Consulate General of India in New York said they are in touch with Arfath’s family and authorities in the US to find him.

“@IndiainNewYork is in touch with Mr. Mohammad Abdul Arfath’s family and authorities in the US. We are working with local law enforcement agencies to find him at the earliest,” the Consulate General of India in New York posted on X.

It had made the statement on X in response to a post that mentioned that a 25-year-old Hyderabad student had gone missing and his father received a call to pay a ransom of USD 1200. Recently the Indian community has seen a rise in such tragedies.

Mysterious death of Indians in US

Earlier on 5th April, it was reported that an Indian student named Uma Satya Sai Gadde died in the US state of Ohio. The cause of death remains unknown.

A 23-year-old engineering student at Boston University, Paruchuri Abhijit, was found dead in an abandoned car on 11th March this year. He hailed from the Burripalem in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. Abhijit is believed to have been murdered by unidentified assailants.

On 27th February, Indian dancer Amarnath Ghosh was murdered by unidentified men while he was out in the St Louis Academy neighbourhood.

On 2nd February, a 41-year-old Indian-origin man named Vivek Taneja succumbed to his injuries after being grievously assaulted by an unidentified man in downtown Washington in the United States.

A day earlier, Shreyas Reddy Beningeri, who had been pursuing a graduate degree from Lindner School of Business, died in Ohio.

One Neel Acharya, an Indian student pursuing a double master’s at the Purdue University in Indiana, went missing on 31st January. Later, his dead body was recovered by the police.

Earlier on 20th January, Akul Dhawan, an 18-year-old Indian-American student, was found dead near the University of Illinois. He reportedly froze to death after being denied entry into a nightclub.

Another Indian student Vivek Saini was brutally killed with repeated blows from a hammer by a homeless man inside a store in Lithonia, Georgia, US on January 16th this year.

Two students named Nikesh and Gattu Dinesh were found dead in their room in Connecticut in the United States on 14th January 2024. They were students of the Sacred Heart University and believed to have died due to ‘carbon monoxide poisoning’.

Besides the 11 cases of mysterious death, an Indian student named Sameer Kamath committed suicide on 5th February while another student named Venkataramana Pittala died in a jet-ski accident.

(With inputs from ANI)

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