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Brussels terrorist attack: ISIS terrorist, who says he is a ‘fighter for Allah’, kills two Swedish nationals, releases video claiming responsibility

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Brussels terrorist attack: ISIS terrorist, who says he is a ‘fighter for Allah’, kills two Swedish nationals, releases video claiming responsibility

On 16th October (local time), an ISIS terrorist killed two Swedish nationals and injured a third person in Brussels, Belgium. The authorities have declared it as an act of terrorism.

Amid the terror attack, the Belgium-Sweden Euro 2024 qualifier football match that was being played in the city was abandoned. The victims were reportedly wearing the Swedish national team’s football shirts. Following the incident, Swedish footballer informed they did not want to play the second half, to which the Belgian team agreed. For some time, around 35,000 fans that were present at the stadium were asked to remain inside for safety. Later, the authorities evacuated them.

The authorities have put Brussels on the highest terror alert as the terrorist was still at large with an assault rifle. In a statement, France’s President Emmanuel Macron said, “Europe has been shaken.”

Belgian federal prosecutor spokesperson Eric Van Duyse urged the public to go home and stay inside as long as the threat remained. He added that the terrorist published a video on social media and said the Islamic State terrorist group inspired him.

In the video in Arabic, the terrorist, who identified himself as Abdesalem Al Guilani, said he carried out the attack in the name of Allah and killed three people. He said, “Islamic greeting Allahu Akbar. My name is Abdesalem Al Guilani, and I am a fighter for Allah. I am from the Islamic State. We love who loves us, and we hate who hates us. We live for our religion, and we die for our religion. Alhamdulah. Your brother took revenge in the name of Muslims. I have killed 3 Swedes so far Al Hamdoulelah. 3 Swedish, yes. Those to whom I have done something wrong, may they forgive me. And I forgive everyone. Salam Aleykoum.”

BBC reported that the video in question and other uploaded content during the attack was under police surveillance for verification.

Social media videos showed a man in a fluorescent orange jacket getting off a scooter, armed possibly with an assault rifle, and entering a nearby building. He then shot at least one person there. The police and emergency services cordoned off the area.

Mayor Philippe Close said on X, “Following the shooting in Brussels, police services are mobilizing to guarantee safety in and around our capital, in collaboration with the Minister of the Interior,” Close said. “I am at the crisis center… to ensure coordination.”

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo offered his condolences and said, “Sincere condolences to the Swedish PM following tonight’s harrowing attack on Swedish citizens in Brussels”. “Our thoughts are with the families and friends who lost their loved ones. As close partners, the fight against terrorism is a joint one,” he added.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said her thoughts were “with the families of the two victims of the despicable attack in Brussels”. She added, “I extend my heartfelt support to the Belgian police, so they swiftly apprehend the suspect. Together, we stand united against terror.”

The sick mentality of flaunting act of terrorism on video

The ‘proud’ moment shared via video reminded of horrifying terrorist attacks in India. In the cases of the Pulwama attack and the murder of Hindu tailor Kanhaiya Lal, the accused released videos flaunting their association with the terrorist organisations and claimed responsibility for the attack. The Jaish-e-Muhammad terrorist had shot a video of himself justifying his act before carrying out the suicide attack against CRPF personnel. In the video released following the Pulwama attack, Adil Ahmad Dhar referred to Indians as “Gaay ka Peshab Peene Wale(People who drink cow urine)”. Boasting about the terror attacks carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammad, Adil said those who committed such acts got Hoors in the afterlife and insisted that he would be in heaven by the time this video is released to the public.

Before the gruesome murder of Kanhaiya Lal, the killers recorded a video flaunting their act. One of the murderers, Mohammed Riyaz Akhatari, was heard saying that he would make the video viral on the day he would behead those who speak against Prophet Muhammad. Akhtari went on to say that even though he was starting this trend of beheading people, other Muslims should take it forward and behead others who speak against the Prophet. A video of them was recorded following the murder, where they flaunted blood-stained weapons. Kanhaiya Lal was murdered for sharing a social media post supporting former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma.

Jilted ex’s lies: Mahua Moitra posts cryptic message amid rumours that she was being ‘betrayed’ by her ex

OpIndia Staff
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Jilted ex’s lies: Mahua Moitra posts cryptic message amid rumours that she was being ‘betrayed’ by her ex

Following the allegations of ‘cash-for-query’ levelled against her, TMC MP Mahua Moitra made a cryptic post on 16th October claiming that it was a lame effort on the part of Mr. A (seemingly hinting at the Adani group) to depend on the lies of a “jilted ex”.  

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), TMC MP Moitra wrote (Archived), “Mr. A (seemingly Adani) –  this lame statement your best efforts? Falling back on Fake Degree MP & a jilted ex’s lies?”

In her post, Moitra added that she will not stop until ED and CBI investigate her claims against Adani Group. She added, “I won’t rest till ED and CBI investigate and freeze ₹13000 cr coal scam you have stolen from Indians. I’m told even PM Modi is sick of you and your frauds.” 

Earlier in the day, Mahua Moitra sent a legal notice to the BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey and Supreme Court lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai, and a host of media organisations for allegedly ‘defaming’ her.

The notice to the advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai stated that they were once close friends. It added that after a falling out, Dehadrai allegedly repeatedly threatened Moitra with several vile, malicious, and vulgar messages, trespassed on her official residence, and stole personal belongings. According to the legal notice, this included Moitra’s dog, however, as per the legal notice, the dog was eventually given back. Moitra had reported Dehadrai to the police after repeated violations.

It is important to note that her cryptic tweet stating that the allegations against her are based on the lies of a “jilted ex” comes in the wake of social media rumours that her ex has betrayed her. Several social media users have claimed that she has been betrayed by her ex who has seemingly provided damning information about her alleged wrongdoings. 

A Twitter (X) user by the handle Sootradhar wrote, “Her (Mahua Moitra’s) ex-boyfriend writes the entire history via an affidavit. If it’s a lie, he goes to jail for perjury and he is a Lawyer. So clearly, it’s game over for madam. The Adani group kept saying we are under attack by external and internal forces. This gets proved.”

Another user on X wrote, “Okay, these Mahua’s pictures leaked by her ex??”

Adani Group’s response to MahuaGate

Following the complaint filed by Supreme Court Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai before the CBI, the Adani Group released an official statement reiterating that some groups and individuals have been engaged in a smear campaign to besmirch the repute and harm the interests of the Adani Group. 

In the official letter, the Adani group spokesperson highlighted recent reports that indicate a “quid pro quo” between Member of Parliament Mahua Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani, CEO of Hiranandani Group. 

The complaint, filed in the form of a sworn affidavit, brought on record “the commission of an elaborate criminal conspiracy” by MP Mahua Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani, CEO of Hiranandani Group, the Adani group’s spokesperson said. 

On 15th October, BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey levelled serious allegations against Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra. It is alleged that Moitra took cash and gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani to ask specific questions in the Parliament. 

Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey also submitted a formal complaint to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking an inquiry against Moitra and urged the Speaker for her immediate suspension.

Mani Shankar Aiyar, Danish Ali among opposition leaders who visited Palestinian embassy to show solidarity after Israeli retaliation

OpIndia Staff
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Mani Shankar Aiyar, Danish Ali among opposition leaders who visited Palestinian embassy to show solidarity after Israeli retaliation

On 16th October (Monday), a group of opposition leaders, including BSP MP Danish Ali and senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar visited the Palestine Embassy in New Delhi to express their solidarity with Palestinians.

The opposition leaders also submitted a joint resolution to Palestinian Ambassador Adnan Abu Alhaija stating that they believe violence is never a solution as it leads to a cycle of destruction and suffering. They also emphasised that the international community should increase its efforts to bring a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

As per media reports, the joint resolution presented to the Palestinian Ambassador was signed by 16 opposition leaders. The signatories of the joint resolution included Congress’ Mani Shankar Aiyar, RJD’s Manoj K Jha, CPI’s D Raja, CPI(ML)’s Dipankar Bhattacharya, CPI(M)’s Subhashini Ali and Nilotpal Basu, Samajwadi Party’s Javed Ali Khan, JD(U)’s KC Tyagi and BSP’s Danish Ali among others.

The joint resolution said, “Recognising that the Palestinian people have endured immeasurable suffering for over 75 years, we firmly assert that now is the time to end their plight. We urge the international community to recognise the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders in accordance with the UN resolutions. Such recognition is a crucial step towards ensuring a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, providing the Palestinian people with the opportunity to determine their own destiny and live in peace and security.” 

The opposition leaders also demanded, “The international community must exert pressure on the state of Israel to abide by international laws and respect the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people. We call for intensified diplomatic efforts and multilateral initiatives to ensure a lasting peace in the region.”

Speaking about their visit to the Palestinian Embassy, the CPI(ML) general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya said, “In India, everywhere, we are raising our voice with the people of the world. The voice for peace must ring louder now because what is happening in Gaza right now is not just killing of the people there indiscriminately but pushing the world to the brink of the third world war.” 

They also expressed ‘deep concern’ over the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the suffering of the Palestinian people. Subsequently, the opposition leaders, through the joint resolution urged an immediate cessation of all hostilities to prevent further loss of innocent lives and the destruction of homes and infrastructure.

They recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s remarks that “Palestine belongs to the Arabs in the same sense that England belongs to the English or France to the French”. They added that it reflected his belief in the importance of recognising the sovereignty and territorial rights of the Palestinian people, just as any other nation’s right to their homeland.

Earlier, on 9th October, the Congress Party expressed its sympathy for Palestinians and extended its support by passing a resolution in the Congress Working Committee (CWC) voicing concerns over the situation and urging for a ceasefire. The resolution however backed the Palestinian people’s rights. 

Israel Hamas war

On the 9th day (15th October) of the Israel Hamas war, the Israeli president, Isaac Herzog, revealed that the Hamas terrorists were given a booklet called “The Warrior’s Guide: Jihadi Version”. The booklet described the inhumane methods the Islamist terrorists should adopt to torture the hostages. This included terrifying hostages, giving them electric shocks, and even executing ISIS-style live-streamed executions. The manual was found on the body of a Hamas terrorist killed in Gaza during counterattacks by Israel.

On 7th October, Hamas, the Palestinian terrorist organisation, killed over 1,300 Israelis, including 150+ soldiers, women, elderly, and babies on a Jewish holiday. Several foreign nationals were also killed or abducted by Hamas terrorists. Israeli forces are still discovering bodies, some of them were charred to death. Burnt houses, dead families, and ruined villages show how horrendous the attack was.

MahuaGate: TMC MP Mahua Moitra sends notice to advocate Dehadrai and BJP MP Dubey, alleges her personal things including ‘dog’ was stolen

OpIndia Staff
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MahuaGate: TMC MP Mahua Moitra sends notice to advocate Dehadrai and BJP MP Dubey, alleges her personal things including ‘dog’ was stolen

In response to the formal complaint submitted to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla by Nishikant Dubey, seeking an inquiry against Mahua Moitra, the TMC MP has sent a legal notice to the BJP Lok Sabha MP and advocate and her formal personal friend Jai Anant Dehadrai and a host of media organisations for allegedly ‘defaming’ her.

The notice sent to BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey claimed that Moitra had recently raised questions about the veracity of Dubey’s claimed educational qualifications and said that he had lied in his election affidavit. This, the notice said, had ‘rattled’ Dubey and so he was now making these false allegations.

The notice to the advocate and her former personal friend Jai Anant Dehadrai stated that they were once close friends but after a falling out, Dehadrai allegedly repeatedly threatened Moitra with several vile, malicious and vulgar messages, trespassed on her official residence, and stole personal belongings, including Moitra’s dog. As stated in the legal notice, the dog was eventually given back. Moitra had reported Dehadrai to the police after repeated violations.

The notification further stated that Dehadrai attempted to get journalists to write false articles about Moitra but was unsuccessful due to a lack of evidence to back up the allegations. Dehadrai approached Dubey when journalists could not be persuaded, the notice claimed. It further stated that Dubey went on to repeat the allegations against the TMC MP and that he “did not even bother to conduct any due diligence of any kind to establish the veracity of the allegations.”

The notice further added that Dubey and Dehadrai have cropped and leaked private morphed photos of Moitra.

Dubey was asked to retract his letter to the speaker, all of his accusations, and to publicly apologize to Moitra. Dehadrai has also been asked to withdraw the allegations in all communications and issue a public apology.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey accuses Mahua Moitra of taking bribes in exchange for asking questions in Parliament

On 15th October, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha (MP) Nishikant Dubey levelled serious allegations against Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra, saying she took cash and gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani to ask specific questions in the Parliament. Dubey raised the allegations based on a letter written to him by advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai and submitted a formal complaint to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking an inquiry against Moitra and urged the Speaker for her immediate suspension.

OpIndia accessed a copy of the complaint filed by Adv Dehadrai that contained a list of items that Moitra allegedly got in exchange for asking questions in the Parliament. OpIndia documented what it found about the products and their costs.

Delhi liquor scam: Agencies contemplating making Aam Aadmi Party an accused in the case, Supreme Court informed

OpIndia Staff
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Delhi liquor scam: Agencies contemplating making Aam Aadmi Party an accused in the case, Supreme Court informed

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) might become an accused party in the ongoing probe into the Delhi liquor policy case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) informed the Supreme Court on Monday (16th October). 

Additional Solicitor General SV Raju said this when the court was hearing the bail plea of Manish Sisodia, AAP leader and the former deputy chief minister of Delhi, in the liquor policy case. The bench questioned ASG Raju as to why the prosecution hadn’t yet begun its case against Sisodia.

“We are contemplating making the Aam Aadmi Party an accused and invoking Section 70 to probe it additionally with respect to vicarious liability,” Additional Solicitor General SV Raju was quoted as saying. He also said that the party would be made accused of the same offence under the same case.

“Be careful with your statement. Will it be a separate or the same offence in the ED case? Answer it tomorrow. In the corruption case, it will certainly be a separate charge. Will it be a separate charge in the CBI matter?” Justice Khanna asked.

The ASG said that the charges might be different but the offence would be the same. Meanwhile, Justice Sanjiv Khanna and SVN Bhatti made it clear that the ASG’s remarks will not in any way influence the decision on Sisodia’s bail.

Two weeks ago, the bench asked the Enforcement Directorate why AAP (without mentioning it by name) was not listed as an accused when it was alleged to be the beneficiary during Sisodia’s plea hearing. “Your entire argument with PMLA is because it was given to a political party. That political party has not yet been charged. How would you respond?”, Justice Khanna had questioned at the time.

Manish Sisodia was arrested in February in connection with the cases surrounding the Delhi liquor policy that is being looked at by both central authorities, and he has been in custody ever since then.

The investigation authorities have frequently asserted that the AAP got kickbacks to fund their campaign in the 2022 Goa Assembly elections from a variety of stakeholders. The ED asserted earlier this month that the AAP utilized Rs 100 crore it got as a bribe for its electoral campaign.

Three AAP leaders, including Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain, and Sanjay Singh, are currently imprisoned after being arrested by government agencies in connection with multiple money laundering investigations.

Hamas willing to release hostages if Israel ends airstrikes on Gaza: Iranian Foreign Ministry

OpIndia Staff
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Hamas willing to release hostages if Israel ends airstrikes on Gaza: Iranian Foreign Ministry

On 16th October (Monday), the Iranian Foreign Ministry claimed that Hamas ‘potentially’ was ready to release the nearly 200 Israeli and other foreign nationals it has held hostage if Israel stops airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, the Times of Israel reported. However, the terrorist group, Hamas hasn’t acknowledged making such an offer.

The Spokesperson of the Iranian Foreign Ministry Nasser Kanaani made this statement while addressing a news conference in Tehran. It is important to note that Iran is considered the main sponsor of Hamas in its ‘fight’ against Israel.

According to Kanaani, Hamas officials stated that they are ready to take necessary measures to release the citizens and civilians held by resistance groups, but their point was that such measures require preparations that are impossible under daily bombardment in Gaza.

As per media reports, Hamas has stated that it will trade the captives for thousands of Palestinians held by Israel in the kinds of lopsided exchange deals that have been made in the past.

Referring to the Hamas terrorist group as ‘resistance’, Kanaani said, “We heard from the resistance that they have no problem to continue resisting. They said the resistance holds the military capability to continue resisting in the field for a long time.”

However, Iran gave a warning to Israel that it could also enter the war if Israel launches a widely anticipated ground offensive in the Gaza Strip in the coming days. 

It has been widely reported that the Lebanese Shiite terror outfit Hezbollah, which is also sponsored by Iran, has already launched missiles into Israel. On its part, Hezbollah has insisted that these missiles represent a “warning” for Israel rather than its full entry into the war, as per media reports.

199 hostages have been held in Gaza by Hamas terrorists

Updating about the Israel-Hamas war, the Israeli military said on 16th October (Monday) that it has notified the families of 199 people so far that their loved ones are among those who have been held hostages in the Gaza Strip after they were abducted by Hamas terrorists during the 7th October surprise attack. 

IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari asserted that the military has some information on the whereabouts of hostages being held in Gaza. In response to a question at a press conference, Hagari said, “We are making valiant efforts to try to understand where the hostages are in Gaza, and we have such information. We will not carry out an attack that would endanger our people.” 

Though the majority of the Israeli and foreign hostages are being held by Hamas terrorists, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) has also claimed that it is holding 30 hostages of its own, as reported by the Times of Israel. 

(‘Bring them back’, parents of Israeli and foreign hostages held by Hamas terrorists praying for their safe return. Image Source – The Times of Israel)

On 15th October (Sunday) Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with representatives of the families whose relatives have been held hostages by Hamas. During the meeting, he vowed to work for the safe return of hostages as soon as possible.

The meeting was held at an IDF Home Front Command base in Ramle. After the meeting, a statement from the families read, “Netanyahu told the families that one of the goals of the war is the return of the captive and missing.”

‘Mahua Moitra bribery scam shows how some Indian elements have been working with foreign powers’: Adani Group on MahuaGate

OpIndia Staff
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‘Mahua Moitra bribery scam shows how some Indian elements have been working with foreign powers’: Adani Group on MahuaGate

On 16th October (Monday), the Adani Group released an official statement reiterating that some groups and individuals, both inside and outside India, have been engaged in a smear campaign to besmirch the repute and harm the interests of the Adani Group. In the official letter, the Adani group spokesperson highlighted the recent reports that indicate a “quid pro quo” between Member of Parliament Mahua Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani, CEO of Hiranandani Group. 

(Image Source – ANI)

The official release by the Adani Group noted that on 15th October, a Supreme Court lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai, filed a complaint with the CBI. The complaint, filed in the form of a sworn affidavit, brought on record “the commission of an elaborate criminal conspiracy” by MP Mahua Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani, CEO of Hiranandani Group, the Adani group’s spokesperson said. 

Notably, in his complaints, Advocate Dehadrai alleged that Moitra was paid in cash and gifts for asking questions in Parliament that favored tycoon Darshan Hiranandani’s business interests. OpIndia accessed a copy of the complaint filed by Adv Dehadrai that contained a list of items that Moitra allegedly got in exchange for asking questions in the Parliament. Click here to know more about the allegations, products, and their costs.

The Adani group further added that this conspiracy was being done to specifically target Gautam Adani and his group of companies through parliamentary questions. 

The letter highlighted that Supreme Court lawyer Dehadrai asserted that, as a quid pro quo, TMC MP Moitra received bribes and undue favours from Hiranandani. 

It noted that another MP has written a complaint to the Lok Sabha Speaker urging him to suspend MP Moitra allegedly involved in a “quid pro quo” deal and initiate a probe for corruption against her. The Adani group emphasised that the complaint has been in wide circulation in the public domain and has also been extensively covered in the media on 16th October.

Notably, on 15th October, BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey levelled serious allegations against Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra. He asserted that she took cash and gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani to ask specific questions in the Parliament. He also submitted a formal complaint to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking an inquiry against Moitra and urged the Speaker for her immediate suspension.

Further, the Adani group, through the official statement, stressed that the recent development has corroborated their earlier statement issued on 9th Oct 2023 that pointed out concerted efforts against the Adani group. The Adani group has maintained that some groups and individuals have been working to harm the reputation of the Adani group of companies and their goodwill and market standing. 

The letter stated, “In this particular case, the lawyer’s complaint reveals that this arrangement to besmirch the reputation and interests of the Adani Group and our Chairman Mr. Gautam Adani has been in place since 2018.” 

On 9th Oct 2023, the Adani group informed the public, through a media statement and exchange filings, that “some foreign entities like the OCCRP, supported by a section of the foreign media, short-sellers and domestic collaborators, have launched a series of attacks against the Adani Group with the primary intent of dragging down its market value, the Adani group’s spokesperson added. 

According to the letter, these individuals and groups (inside and outside India) have been bound by the common objective of damaging the Adani Group. For this, they have developed a playbook that is being executed to perfection by well-oiled and professional machinery working in sync both within India and abroad, the official release asserted. 

The Spokesperson of the Adani group said, “We (Adani group of companies) also pointed out that one tactic in their playbook includes putting out media reports with an uncanny ability to appear just before the hearing dates of important cases in India’s courts.” 

Citing the recent example of the Financial Times report, it noted, “True to predicted form, the Financial Times published a story recycling baseless allegations against the Adani Group on 12 Oct 2023, just a day before the hearing of an Adani-related case in the Hon’ble Supreme Court.” 

The letter concluded by stating that they are releasing the statement for the interest of all their stakeholders, including shareholders of the Adani group.

Human shields, electric shock and ISIS-style live-streamed killings’: Isreal shares details of Hamas manual outlining tactics to torture hostages

OpIndia Staff
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Human shields, electric shock and ISIS-style live-streamed killings’: Isreal shares details of Hamas manual outlining tactics to torture hostages

The Israeli president, Isaac Herzog, revealed on Sunday, October 15, that the Hamas terrorists were given a booklet called “The Warrior’s Guide: Jihadi Version” that described the inhumane methods the Islamist terrorists should adopt to torture the captives. This included terrifying hostages, giving them electric shocks, and even executing ISIS-style live-streamed executions. The manual was found on the body of a Hamas terrorist killed in Gaza during counterattacks by Israel.

The terrorist manual also provided instructions on how to utilize sniper fire, ambushes, car bombs, suicide bombings, and other measures to reassert control over captured territory. Terrorists were also told to accurately record the personal details of their prisoners and take possession of their identification documents.

The booklet additionally included a diagram that illustrated the organizational structure, armaments, and electronic resources of the Israel Defense Force.

While describing the inhumane measures illustrated in the Hamas manual, the Israeli President said that it’s simply an ideology from ISIS that calls for Israel to be wiped off the face of the earth, and therefore Hamas must be wiped off the face of the earth.

He also shared photos of atrocities in the massacre at Kibbutz Be’eri, which he visited Sunday morning. One of the pictures showed a woman who had been decipated and burned to death.

“This booklet is an operating manual, how to enter citizens’ yards, kibbutz, city, moshav, and how to break in there. And first – and what do you do when you find the citizens? You torture them. This is the booklet that says exactly how to torture them, how to kidnap them,” Isaac Herzog told CNN.

Regardless of the captives’ gender, race, or religion, the eight-page manual instructed the Hamas terrorists to use them as human shields in case of an attack. It stated that the captives should be “killed when necessary,” particularly if there is any indication of rebellion among them, and gave Hamas terrorists instructions to live-stream the execution. The Israeli president asserted that several of these Islamist terrorists were equipped with GoPro cameras and that the footage they captured was shared online.

“We are faced with an extremely cruel, inhumane ending enemy which we have to uproot with no mercy,” Herzog told CNN.

“This was found on the body of one of the terrorists, this booklet is an instruction guide, on how to go into a civilian premises, into a kibbutz, a city, a moshav, how to break in. And first thing what do you do when you find the citizens? You torture them? This is the booklet – it says exactly how to torture them, how to abduct them, how to kidnap them.”

“So, therefore, the story is not Israel versus Palestinians or Judaism versus Islam – God forbid – the story is about humans, humanity, are we with the good or with evil, that’s where humanity should stand. And the battle that we are carrying out now, as a nation rising up as a lion is against evil, and we will uproot evil so that there will be good for the entire region and the world.”

“There is no justification. It is simply an ISIS-type ideology that wants to eliminate us off the ground, and therefore they need to be eliminated off the ground.”

Hamas, the Palestinian terrorist organisation, killed over 1,200 Israelis, including 150+ soldiers, women, elderly and children on a Jewish holiday. Several foreign nationals were killed or abducted by Hamas terrorists. Israeli forces are still discovering bodies, some of them were charred to death. Burnt houses, dead families and ruined villages show how horrendous the attack was.

‘Stop spreading fake news and hatred about Israel’: Israel’s Consul General in India slams Mohammed Zubair for spreading disinformation

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‘Stop spreading fake news and hatred about Israel’: Israel’s Consul General in India slams Mohammed Zubair for spreading disinformation

On Monday (16th October), the Consul General of Israel to India, Kobbi Shoshani called out Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair for spreading fake news and hatred against Israel amid the ongoing disturbances between Israel and Palestine. “Mr Zubair, stop spreading fake news and hatred about Israel.

“If you REALLY consider yourself a fact-checker, go to Israel,” the Consul General posted on X.

The Consul General’s tweet comes in the wake of attempts made by pro-Hamas elements to peddle propaganda against Israeli retaliation to the terror attacks. Earlier, the propaganda pushers tried to discredit the cold-blooded murder of Israeli children, including babies, toddlers, and infants, only to be debunked by the Israeli PMO and other authoritative sources, which released evidence to prove the barbarity, underscoring the depravity of Hamas terrorists and ‘fact-checkers’ providing them with cover fire.

Earlier today, Foreign investigative journalist and founder of RAIR Foundation USA, Amy Mek, alerted Indians about the fake news peddling site Alt News and its co-founder Mohammed Zubair. She pointed out that just like in the case of Former BJP Spokesperson Nupur Sharma, Alt News’ co-founder Mohammed Zubair has been painting a target on her back for exposing the crimes of Islamist terror outfits like Hamas. 

Taking to X, American Woman journalist Mek asserted that a ‘Jihadi’ named Mohammed Zubair, operating a left-wing disinformation portal Alt News, has been carrying out a smear campaign against her and others who are exposing the propaganda of the terrorist organisation Hamas. (Archived) 

Regarding the genesis of the controversy revolving around Sharma, she highlighted, “This was simply because she (Nupur Sharma) reported factual information about Prophet Muhammad and the age of one of his wives, Aisha. She noted that Aisha was 6 years old when married and 9 when the marriage was consummated.” 

Further in her post, Mek highlighted that Zubair has been under the scanner of Indian agencies and was once arrested (for hurting religious sentiments). 

She noted that Zubair seems to be a dangerous individual who dog-whistles and encourages his followers to harass people. She said, “I also heard that he was arrested in India and seems to be a dangerous individual who encourages his followers to harass people.” 

Zubair spreading fake news

Mohammed Zubair has a history of peddling fake news and dog whistling to specifically target leading powerful Hindu personalities by sharing edited videos. There are umpteen incidents when Zubair has been caught peddling lies. An indicative, and not exhaustive, list of instances when Zubair was called out for spreading fake news can be read here.

Earlier last year, Zubair dog whistled against Nupur by sharing a clipped video of her debate from Times Now. He cunningly edited out the part where a Muslim speaker had used derogatory language for Shivling. The clip that garnered death calls against Sharma from all over the global Islamist community started with Nupur warning him to stop abusing the Hindu religion and its Gods. However, Zubair, in his tweet, insinuated to make it look like only Nupur had used derogatory remarks.

MahuaGate: IT Min Chandrasekhar highlights Parliament question on data centre, hints Moitra’s query was seeking to benefit a private company

OpIndia Staff
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MahuaGate: IT Min Chandrasekhar highlights Parliament question on data centre, hints Moitra’s query was seeking to benefit a private company

On Monday (16th October), Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, informed that a question asked by Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on the floor of the House mirrored the talking points of a company, which was lobbying for data localisation.

Citing media reports, he said that the question asked by the politician might have been influenced by the company. “I have learnt from news reports that this Parliamentary Question (PQ) was likely asked by an MP at the behest of a Data centre company,” Rajeev Chandrasekhar pointed out.

Without taking names, he added, “If true this is indeed shocking and shameful…It is true that this company was actively and aggressively lobbying for Data Localization.”

“The language used in PQ is very similar (linking the need for data localization to data breaches) to that used when the head of this company met me,” the Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology emphasised.

He further added, “I am not aware or privy to the full facts or background on this – but if it is true then it’s a terrible travesty and misuse of PQs.”

The Background of the Controversy

On 22nd March last year, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moutra asked a question (with six sub-parts) regarding data breaches and the need for data localisation.

Will the Minister for Electronics and Information Technology be pleased to state – (a) whether the Government has banned 54 apps in order to protect our citizens, (b) if so, the details thereof (c) whether app leakages and data leakages of Indian citizens may happen from other countries (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether the Government enact data localization requirements for all sensitive personal data while the Data Protection Act is under consideration; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

At that time, Rajeev Chandrashekhar had responded, “In line with the objective of the Government to ensure an Open, Safe & Trusted and Accountable Internet for all its users and based on the requests received through designated nodal officers from Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has blocked 54 mobile applications under the provision of section A of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 and the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information for Public) Rules, 2009. These mobile applications were blocked in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, defense of India and security of the State. As per the information made available by MHA, these apps were collecting various user data and transmitting it in an unauthorized manner to servers abroad for profiling.”

“It is technically possible that the breach of data privacy of Indian citizens may happen from other countries. Any such cyber security incident for Indian citizens” data is expected to be reported to Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) as per the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 and the Information Technology (The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team and Manner of Performing Functions and Duties) Rules, 2013″, he further added.

“At present Section 43A and section 72A of the IT Act, 2000 enable privacy and security of sensitive personal data in digital form. The Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information), Rules, 2011, provides reasonable security practices and procedures by the body corporate. In financial sector, RBI has mandated that all payment system providers shall ensure that the entire data relating to payment systems operated by them are stored in a system only in India. For the foreign leg of the transaction, if any, data can also be stored in the foreign country, if required,” the Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology added.

Mahua Moitra under scanner

On Monday (15th October), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha (MP) Nishikant Dubey levelled serious allegations against Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra, saying she took cash and gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani to ask specific questions in the Parliament. MP Dubey has submitted a formal complaint to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking an inquiry against Moitra and urged the Speaker for her immediate suspension.

In his letter, he raised alarming allegations of corruption and misconduct against Moitra. He pointed out alleged bribery between Moitra and businessman Darshan Hiranandani, where cash and gifts were purportedly exchanged for asking questions in Parliament that favoured Hiranandani’s business interests. Dubey raised the allegations based on a letter written to him by advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai.

He added that 50 out of 61 questions raised by Moitra were allegedly aimed to protect and promote Hiranandani’s company that, often focused on rival business conglomerates like the Adani Group. He contended that the alleged conspiracy went unnoticed as Moitra, an opposition leader, openly criticised the government, linking it to business houses while covertly serving her agenda.

He added that the alleged misconduct of Moitra in the Parliament was similar to the infamous “cash for query” episode of December 2005. He further contended the alleged actions of Moitra were to be considered a breach of privilege, contempt of the House and a violation of Section 120-A of the Indian Penal Code.

Dubey stated that Mahua Moitra‘s quid pro quo arrangement with a businessman, which was recently disclosed, revealed her public image of morality to be a deceptive facade. He described it as a “Machiavellian Camouflage” that she used to conceal her criminal activities while projecting the persona of a “firebrand Member of Parliament.”

Retaliating to the allegations, Moitra said she would welcome ED and CBI for enquiry into her alleged money laundering “right after they finish investigating Adani’s offshore money trail, over invocing, benami accounts”. She urged ED to first file FIR against Adani and raised allegations of coal scam against Adani group.

Darshan Hiranandani is the CEO of real estate giant Hiranandani Group based in Mumbai. The group has diversified into health, education, energy, hospitality, data centres, and has recently started a technology-led consumer services business under Tez Platforms.

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