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Jammu and Kashmir: Infiltration bid foiled as security forces neutralise 3 terrorists in Baramulla; Operation Garol enters day fourth in Anantnag

OpIndia Staff
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Jammu and Kashmir: Infiltration bid foiled as security forces neutralise 3 terrorists in Baramulla; Operation Garol enters day fourth in Anantnag

As part of a major counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir, three terrorists were eliminated after the security forces foiled an infiltration bid in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district, the Indian Army informed on Saturday (16 September). 

A joint team of Army and police personnel had received intelligence input about the presence of terrorists in the vicinity. Afterwards, an encounter started in the forward region of Uri, Hathlanga in the Baramulla district. 

The security forces informed that the dead bodies of two terrorists had been recovered while the dead body of the third terrorist had not been retrieved because of interference and firing by the Pakistani posts in the area. 

Taking to X, security forces informed, “In a joint operation launched by the Indian Army, J&K Police, and Intelligence agencies, an infiltration bid was foiled today in the morning hours along LoC in Uri Sector, Baramulla. 3 terrorists tried to infiltrate and were engaged by alert troops. 2 terrorists were eliminated and their bodies recovered, the third terrorist was killed but the retrieval of the body was interfered with by firing by the Pak post in the vicinity, on LoC. Operation in progress.”

The encounter is taking place, a day after the security forces busted a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror module in the Baramulla district following the arrest of two terrorist associates and recovery of arms and ammunition from them. As per the spokesperson of the Police, the two arrested were identified as Zaid Hassan Malla, a resident of Mir Sahib Baramulla, and Mohammad Arif Channa, from Stadium Colony Baramulla.  


The spokesperson said, “They were involved in cross-border smuggling of arms and ammunition at the behest of Pakistan-based terror handlers and its further distribution to LeT terrorists for carrying out terror activities.”

Anantnag Encounter: Fourth day of Operation Garol

The counter-terror operation in the Uri sector follows the ongoing Anantnag encounter, which has now entered its fourth day in the Kokernag area of the Anantnag district. To flush out the terrorists, security forces have cordoned off the Kokernag forest area in Anantnag and have deployed drone surveillance to locate terrorists.

As part of Operation Garol, the security forces have bombed the hiding place of the terrorists and it is expected that the operation has now entered its final stage.  

As a result, in some drone footage, one of the terrorists is seen running away after the security forces targeted their hideout in the jungles of Anantnag district. 

According to the ADGP of Kashmir Zone, around 2-3 terrorists are trapped here. ADGP also assured that all of the terrorists would be killed. 

According to the information, Lashkar commander Uzair Khan is hiding in the forest area along with another terrorist. 

Briefing about the operation, officials on Saturday stated that the operation to flush out militants has entered into its fourth day as drones and helicopters were pressed into service to track and neutralise the ultras who killed three security forces officers. 

They added that as the assault was resumed on Saturday morning – the fourth day of the gunfight – the security forces fired several mortar shells towards the forest. 

In the past seven days, three major incidences of terror have been registered in Jammu and Kashmir. Apart from the Baramulla encounter, two other incidences include the one in Rajouri and the other one in Anantnag. 

These terrorists were identified as Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives operating under the names ‘TRF’ (The Resistance Front) and ‘PAFF’ (People’s Anti-Fascist Front). While two terrorists were neutralised in Rajouri, Indian security forces suffered casualties in which four army soldiers and one Jammu and Kashmir Police official lost their lives in these two other terror incidences. 

Bravehearts Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonack, and DySP Humayun Bhat were martyred in an operation deep inside the Kokrenag forest in Anantnag on Wednesday (13 September). Colonel Singh died on the spot, and Major Dhonak and DSP Bhat succumbed to their injuries during treatment. The terrorists currently hiding in the Kokernag forest area are the ones who killed our three security forces officers. 

If boycotted journalists realise what they are doing is not good, I.N.D.I. Alliance will again attend their shows: Congress leader Pawan Khera

OpIndia Staff
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If boycotted journalists realise what they are doing is not good, I.N.D.I. Alliance will again attend their shows: Congress leader Pawan Khera

On 16th September 2023, Congress leader Pawan Khera said that if journalists boycotted by the I.N.D.I. Alliance ‘realise what they are doing is not good’, then the alliance will again attend their shows. He made this statement in response to a question about the list of journalists released by the I.N.D.I. Alliance on 14th September 2023 wherein it was mentioned that the parties in the opposition alliance will not send their representatives to the shows hosted by the journalists mentioned in the list. Pawan Khera said this ahead of the two-day Congress Working Committee meeting.

Pawan Khera said, “I do not agree with the word ban. We have not banned anyone. We have not boycotted anyone. We have not blacklisted anyone. This is a non-cooperation movement. We will not cooperate with anybody spreading hatred in society. We are not stopping them from spreading hatred. You want to spread hatred? Go ahead. Do it. You have the freedom to do it. We also have the freedom not to be partners in that crime. They are not our enemies. We do not hate any of these friends of ours in the media. They may have their compulsions. And nothing is permanent.”

Pawan Khera further said, “If tomorrow they realise that what they were doing is not good for India, not good for the society, believe me, we are all together in this. We will again start attending their shows. So do not call it a ban. We are distancing ourselves from that path in a Gandhian way.”

Pawan Khera added, “We have the freedom to change our path if anyone pours garbage on us every day while walking on that path. We are exercising that freedom. It is nothing different than this. All the parties in the I.N.D.I. Alliance unanimously accepted that we need to change our way. We don’t want to be part of this sin by walking on this path. Therefore, you don’t call it a ban. You don’t call it a boycott. You don’t call it a blacklist. This is civil disobedience.”

It is notable that Aditi Tyagi, Aman Chopra, Amish Devgan, Anand Narasimhan, Arnab Goswami, Ashok Shrivastav, Chitra Tripathi, Gaurav Sawant, Navika Kumar, Prachi Parashar, Rubika Liaquat, Shiv Aroor, and Sudhir Chaudhary have been listed as anchors whose shows will not be attended by representatives of the I.N.D.I. Alliance.

A copy of the list was shared on X, formerly Twitter, by Congress leader Pawan Khera on September 14, Thursday. The I.N.D.I. alliance has decided that these are the anchors whose tough questions they are not willing to answer and would only perhaps entertain those anchors who ask Sonia Gandhi whether she knows how to cook pasta.

G-20 summit in Delhi: Bharat and bharatiyata stole the spotlight at the gala event

Sneha
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G-20 summit in Delhi: Bharat and bharatiyata stole the spotlight at the gala event

भरतद्भारती कीर्तिर्यनेदं भारतं कुलम् |

अपरे ये च पूर्वे च भर्ता इति विश्रुतः ||   -Mahabharata 1.74.131

The name of this land came from Bharat (or the name of the land was Bharati). From him, this Kaurava dynasty became famous by the name of Bharatvansh.

In the global arena, the power of culture and identity often takes centre stage, showcasing a nation’s rich history and values. This narrative explores a remarkable event at the G20 summit, where President Droupadi Murmu made a significant statement by hosting a dinner for world leaders. What set this gathering apart was the deliberate use of the term ‘BHARAT’ instead of ‘India’ on the invitations, symbolising a profound return to the cultural and historical roots.

It was a momentous occasion to celebrate the essence of ‘BHARAT’ and reflect on the impact of colonial legacies on our cultural identity. It provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the rich culture and deep-rooted sentiments associated with this word.

On the international stage, our country is commonly known as India, particularly at forums like the United Nations. However, it is of great importance to officially emphasise that from now on, our nation will be referred to as Bharat on a global platform. This shift is a return to our cultural and historical roots, signifying self-resilience (Atmabirbharta).

Throughout the world, post-colonisation, many civilisations have chosen to preserve their cultural identities. This is true for Sri Lanka, which reclaimed its original name by renaming state institutions in 2011, shedding the colonial name ‘Ceylon’. Similar examples can be found in countries like Turkey, which changed its name to ‘Türkiye’ to better represent its rich values and culture on the global stage.

In our country, remnants of colonial influence still hold us back from embracing our own culture fully. While some may argue, “What’s in a name?”, they often fail to grasp the symbolism and sentiments behind a name, especially when it pertains to a nation that struggled for freedom for 200 years. “What’s in a name” – the use of this very phrase shows how inherent Western influence is amongst the common people of our country, the name has vast significance in Bharatiya culture from the very beginning. The name by which the world knows us also carries a historical and cultural significance that should not be overlooked.

Today, the history we are taught has been greatly influenced by these perceptions. For example, some individuals, like Saif Ali Khan, mistakenly claim that there was no concept of India before the British arrived. This misconception underscores the need to revise our understanding of our history. ‘BHARAT’ is not merely a geographical entity, it is an emotion deeply embedded in the history of our country.

The term ‘BHARAT’ can be traced back to various Bharatiya scriptures such as the Rigveda, Paushadivad, Vishnu Purana, and Mahabharata. In the Vishnu Purana 2.3.1, it says, “The land that lies from the north of the sea to the south of the Himalayas is Bharat, and the people here are Bhartiya.”  (उत्तरं यत् समुद्रस्य हिमाद्रेश्चैव दक्षिणम् | वर्षं तद् भारतं नाम भारती यत्र सन्ततिः ||)

In the Rigveda, the index part mentions many Rishis with their Patrilineal name as ‘Bharat,’ such as Devnaad Bharat and Ashvmedh Bharat. There is also the mention of a community that was called Bharat. (आस॒न्यपरच्छिन्ना भर॒ता अ॑भ॒कास अभ॑व पुरए॒ता वसि॑ष्ठ॒ आदित्तृत्सू॑नां॒ विशो॑ अ॒प्रथन्त)

Mahabharata says, “Dushyanta’s wife Shankuntala gave birth to Bharat, whose name in the world is this famous Bharata clan.” (शकुन्तलायां दुष्यन्ताद्भरतश्चापि जज्ञिवान्। यस्य लोकेषु नाम्नेदं प्रथितं भारतं कुलम्)

The Modi government took the opportunity to display Bharat’s rich culture to G20 delegates in various engaging ways. A captivating cultural performance was held at the Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, featuring a diverse array of traditional Bharatiya dances, music, and art forms, from the graceful Kathak to the energetic Bhangra. The Bharat Mandapam is purpose-built to showcase Bharatiya culture and is situated within the expansive Pragati Maidan exhibition complex in New Delhi. Delegates were also treated with an exceptional performance of traditional music and dance.

Furthermore, the delegates were given a comprehensive tour of the Akshardham Temple, a Hindu temple complex built in the 21st century and one of the world’s largest Hindu temples, located in Delhi. Even Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, the country which ruled us for over 200 years, visited this remarkable site.

During their visit, delegates had the opportunity to meet skilled artisans who were engaged in various traditional Indian crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and jewellery making. They used the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment method which is a hallmark of the digital growth of Bharat. They gained insights into the history and techniques of these crafts and had the chance to acquire some of the finished products.

The government also leveraged the G20 summit to introduce several initiatives aimed at promoting Bharatiya culture and heritage. These initiatives included the “Brand India” campaign, with the goal of positioning Bharat as a top-tier tourist destination and a hub for culture and innovation. The “G20 India Cultural Forum” brought together artists, musicians, and cultural experts from across the globe to celebrate Bharat’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the “G20 India Yoga Festival” was launched to emphasise yoga as a means of enhancing both physical and mental well-being.

Notably, Prime Minister Modi’s strategic move of capturing moments with world leaders against the backdrop of iconic landmarks like Konark wheel and Nalanda holds significant importance. Firstly, it is a powerful representation of Bharat’s diverse and culturally rich heritage on the global stage. More than 500 years before Oxford University was even founded, Bharat’s Nalanda University was home to nine million books and thousands of students from across the world. Konark Sun Temple and Nalanda University are two iconic landmarks that symbolise Bharat’s long and vibrant history, and by positioning heads of state in front of these landmarks, Modi conveyed Bharat’s rich cultural heritage to the world.

Secondly, it functions as a catalyst for tourism in Bharat. The G20 summit provides a unique opportunity to attract tourists from across the globe, and by showcasing India’s heritage, Modi aims to inspire people to explore the country’s treasures.

Thirdly, it fosters stronger international relations for Bharat. The G20 summit is a platform for leaders from major economies to discuss crucial global issues. By having these leaders pose in front of Bharatiya heritage sites, Modi underscores Bharat’s status as a respected and valued member of the international community.

Furthermore, this approach enhances Bharat’s soft power, enabling it to influence others through its culture, values, and ideas. By showcasing Bharat’s heritage, Modi seeks to make the country more appealing and influential globally.

Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, is often acknowledged for modernising the country and propelling it into the 20th century. However, Nehru’s worldview was heavily influenced by Western notions of progress and modernity. He believed India needed modernisation to compete with the West and often dismissed India’s traditional culture as outdated and superstitious. This perspective is evident in his speeches and writings, where he advocated shedding old habits and traditions to embrace modern ideas and techniques. For instance, he promoted English as India’s official language despite it being spoken by a minority. He prioritised industries and technologies considered modern while neglecting traditional arts and crafts. This contributed to a decline in interest in India’s history and heritage and perpetuated negative stereotypes about the country as a “land of snake charmers”.

In contrast, Narendra Modi, the current Prime Minister, has actively worked to promote Bharatiya culture globally.  The Bharat government has established cultural centres worldwide, promoting Indian culture through exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. Initiatives to popularise Bharatiya cinema and music globally have also contributed to increasing awareness of India’s cultural heritage and drawing more tourists to the country. Naming the southern point of the moon where Chandrayaan-3 landed as the “Shiv Shakti” point is yet another step in achieving these objectives.

The celebration of ‘BHARAT’ at the G20 summit signifies a powerful reaffirmation of our cultural identity and heritage, serving as a beacon of pride on the global stage. It reminds us of the importance of preserving and showcasing our rich history and values to the world, contributing to a better understanding and appreciation of India’s unique cultural heritage while countering negative stereotypes.

(This article is co-authored by Senha Gupta and Rohi Ray)

‘Beware of scamgress scammers’: BRS slams Congress in poster war before important CWC meet in Telangana

OpIndia Staff
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‘Beware of scamgress scammers’: BRS slams Congress in poster war before important CWC meet in Telangana

Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting is scheduled to be held under the leadership of party president Mallikarjun Kharge in Telangana on 16 September to prepare a strategy for the upcoming assembly elections in five states and the Lok Sabha elections of 2024. Congress wanted to convey that it would battle tenaciously to topple the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government by organising the crucial gathering in Hyderabad.

Now, in an interesting development, posters critical of prominent members of Congress who have been accused of corruption have been installed in the state capital before the crucial meeting in which CWC has been referred to as the Corrupt Working Committee. Furthermore, a corruption scandal is attached to the name of every significant Congress leader.

The poster advises people to “beware of scamgress scammers.” “BookmyCM” posters have also been erected against Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao before the meeting, similar to what happened in Karnataka. The government is charged with taking a 30% commission on the banner.

The posters took potshots at the grand old party and read things like “Madam Gandhi, do you agree with your PCC (Pradesh Congress Committee) President’s statement that only 3 hours of electricity supply is enough for farmers to do agriculture.”

A comparison between the two political entities was also drawn on the posters which remarked, “During Congress government, UPA (United Progressive Alliance) chairperson Sonia Gandhi promised national status for the Palamuru Rangareddy Project. They failed to keep their promise.” It further added, “Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao completed the Palamuru Rangareddy Project on 16 September trial run.”

A poster featured, “2004 to 2014 Congress was in power and fooled Dalits on Scheduled Caste categorisation. Now again on the name of the declaration, you want to do the same,” accusing the party of tricking the minorities.

On the other hand, Congress leaders claimed that this meeting is set to prove to be a game changer for the politics of Telangana as well as the party. The Rajya Sabha from Karnataka, Mallikarjun Kharge proclaimed that this would be the first CWC meeting after he was appointed as the party president in October last year. He noted that there would be a meeting of the Extended Working Committee on 17 September in which the party organisation is scheduled to be discussed.

He observed that many major leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would be a part of the meeting in which the upcoming elections in five states are going to be discussed. He asserted that their focus would be on strengthening the outfit and the opposition alliance would be discussed in the I.N.D.I.A bloc meeting.

Congress general secretary KC Venugopal revealed, “We have invited 90 people, but six of them have informed us about their inability to attend due to personal difficulties. All the other 84 people, including our four chief ministers, will attend.”

He added that Telangana National Unity Day is celebrated on 17th September. A “mega rally” is set to be held near Hyderabad on the evening of 17 September where the Congress would announce six guarantees for the Telangana Assembly elections.

General secretaries K C Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh announced that the CWC, which is going to be presided over by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, would convene its three-day meeting outside of Delhi for the first time in many years.

The CWC meeting would commence at 2:30 PM to discuss the campaign strategy for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections. The party’s top brass, including Rahul Gandhi, Shashi Tharoor, Sachin Pilot and Gaurav Gogoi, among others are expected to be a part of it.

Indian Air Force to buy around 100 more made-in-India LCA Mark 1A fighter jets, announces IAF Chief VR Chaudhari in Spain

ANI
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Indian Air Force to buy around 100 more made-in-India LCA Mark 1A fighter jets, announces IAF Chief VR Chaudhari in Spain

In a major announcement aimed at giving a boost to the indigenous aerospace sector, the Indian Air Force has officially announced plans to buy around 100 more made-in-India LCA Mark 1A fighter jets.

The plan to buy the indigenous plane was announced in Spain by Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari soon after receiving the first C-295 transport aircraft in Spain in an exclusive interaction with ANI.

“The LCA was developed from the ground up for replacement of the large MiG series fleet including the MiG-21, MiG 23 and MiG-27 aircraft. With the phasing out of all these aircraft, it is essential that we have adequate numbers of the LCA class aircraft in our inventory. So, apart from the 83 LCA Mark 1A that we have already contracted for, we are moving a case for around 100 more aircraft: Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari told ANI at the Airbus aircraft manufacturing facility.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to buy these made-in-India aircraft to replace the MiG-series fighter jets in its fleet and the plans have been submitted to the Defence Ministry and all other stakeholders in the national security establishment.

The decision to buy around 100 more of these planes came around the time when the Indian Air Force chief held a review meeting of the indigenous fighter jet programme with all entities involved including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited last month.

The order would mean that the LCA Tejas fighters would re-enter the Indian Air Force in very large numbers. The IAF will have 40 LCA, over 180 LCA Mark-1A and at least 120 LCA Mark-2 planes in the next 15 years.

The last order for LCA Mark1A was for 83 aircraft and the first plane would be delivered around February 2024. LCA Mark 1A is the advanced version of Tejas aircraft.

The LCA Mark 1A plane has more advanced avionics and radars than the initial 40 LCAs being supplied to the Air Force.

The indigenous content in the new LCA Mark 1A is going to be more than 65 per cent.

The Indian Air Force chief in the project review meeting last month had clearly stated that the LCA has been the flag bearer of the force’s efforts towards the indigenisation of its aircraft fleet.

The programme has been the harbinger of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives of the nation. More importantly, it is a flag bearer of India’s self-reliance in the aerospace sector.

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

UP: Hindu woman who escaped with cash & jewellery found with 2 Muslim men in hotel, husband says the family was being forced to convert  

OpIndia Staff
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UP: Hindu woman who escaped with cash & jewellery found with 2 Muslim men in hotel, husband says the family was being forced to convert  

A shocking incident has surfaced in the Harbansh Mohal police station neighbourhood in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. A Hindu woman was found in a hotel room in Ghantaghar with two Muslim guys from Agra while her husband kept pleading for help from outside the place.

An individual informed members of the Bajrang Dal on 15 September that his spouse was in a guesthouse in Ghantaghar with two young Muslim men who were pressuring her to convert to Islam. Furthermore, he revealed that she had fled the house with money and jewellery.

Workers from the Hindu organisation arrived at the location based on the news, however, the hotel manager initially refused to hand over the three persons to them. The hotel also withheld their identities until the Uttar Pradesh Police showed up on the scene. Notably, the business did not even ask for any Identity Document (ID) proof from these guests.

The trio is now being questioned by the police. The complainant stated that his wife was in contact with the two males through some app. He has lodged a complaint with the police in which he has disclosed that she had beaten their children and ran away from home with jewellery and cash on the morning of 15 September.

He followed her and discovered that she was with the two accused in a hotel. He charged that the pair was calling and pressuring him and his family to embrace Islam. The Harbansh Mohal police station in-charge conveyed that the victim provided the details based on which the two men present at the spot were taken into custody and their interrogation is underway. Further action is being conducted according to the filed report.

The police had visited the hotel on the recommendation of the husband, per Assistant Commissioner of Police Nishank Sharma. “A woman was found there with two youths. She expressed that she is an adult and has come here of her own free will. Afterwards, all three were brought to the police station for questioning. Any new information would serve as the foundation for subsequent action.”

Krishna Tiwari, the convenor of Bajrang Dal North, proclaimed that the man from Govind Nagar told him about his spouse’s presence at the hotel after which they reached the property along with him. He accused the hotel manager of hiding the identities of the perpetrators. Their names were only unveiled when the cops came there. The members of the outfit argued that the app is being used to trap Hindu women.

The woman has told the authorities that she has been living apart from the complainant for four years. She claimed that she had gone to the hotel to meet the duo for work-related reasons.

Uttar Pradesh: DGM Shakeel Ahmed of Cooperative Bank, Rampur, suspended for violating rules to make interest payments to Azam Khan’s trust

OpIndia Staff
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Uttar Pradesh: DGM Shakeel Ahmed of Cooperative Bank, Rampur, suspended for violating rules to make interest payments to Azam Khan’s trust

The UP government has suspended two senior bank officials of a District Cooperative Bank for allegedly making interest payments to trust’s linked with Azam Khan – the senior leader of the Samajwadi Party – in violation of established rules, media reported on Saturday (16 September).  

As per media reports, the two suspended bank officials include Shakeel Ahmed, Deputy General Manager. and Upendra Kumar Saraswat, Secretary. Both of them are senior officials of District Cooperative Bank Rampur.  The action has been taken against the two officials following an investigation regarding financial irregularities. 

Both of them have been accused of making illegal payments of interest to Azam Khan’s Jauhar University, Jauhar Trust, and Rampur Public School. Following the suspension, both of them have been attached to Lucknow headquarters. 

The investigation revealed that the Jauhar University branch of the District Cooperative Bank, considered the bank accounts operated in the name of Jauhar University and Jauhar Trust as savings accounts. Afterward, the branch paid interest worth Rs 17.58 lakh to Jauhar University and Rs 2.18 lakh to Jauhar Trust in July 2022.

Apart from that, the degree college branch of the District Cooperative Bank also treated the account operated in the name of Rampur Public School as a savings account. Subsequently, it paid interest of Rs 3.67 lakh to the public school. 

Interestingly, all three accounts are being operated by the Samajwadi Party leader, Mohammad Azam Khan. 

According to the rules, the District Cooperative Bank can neither consider these accounts operated by all three institutions as savings accounts nor can it pay interest to them. 

Several other institutions, including Saraswati Shishu Mandir, Saraswati Vidya Mandir, Arya Samaj, and District J Panchayat, among others, also hold accounts in the District Cooperative Bank. However, they have not received any interest payments from the bank.

When the matter came to the notice of local MLA Akash Saxena, he sent a complaint to the Additional Chief Secretary demanding an investigation into the matter. 

After receiving information, MLA Saxena sent a complaint to the state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath which prompted the formation of an inquiry committee. 

In its investigation, the committee found that the payment of interest was against the established rules. As a result, the UP government led by CM Yogi Adityanath has suspended both the bank officials and has attached them to the headquarters.

Earlier, the Income Tax (IT) department conducted raids at the premises of SP leader Azam Khan in Rampur in relation to a tax evasion probe against the former cabinet minister. The agency raid which continued for three days, was reportedly linked to the Al Jauhar Trust. It is expected that the suspected tax evasion is to the tune of Rs 800 crores. 

At least 30 premises across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh were searched including in Lucknow, Rampur, Meerut, Ghaziabad, Saharanpur, and Sitapur as part of a tax evasion probe against Azam Khan.

Azam Khan is the head of the Al Jauhar Trust. A lease for a 3.24-acre plot of the Trust was cancelled by the Uttar Pradesh government earlier this year. The plot was reportedly given to the Trust to set up a research institute and the lease was signed in 2013-14 for Rs 100 a year for over 30 years.

However, Azam Khan claimed that he relies on the money he earns from his dairy. During the raid, he told the IT officers that about Rs 20,000 comes from his buffalo dairy, and that’s what keeps his home running.

Jharkhand: Sarbari Khatun ties two bricks around 5-year-old step-grandson’s neck and throws him into the well to ‘avenge’ humiliation

OpIndia Staff
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Jharkhand: Sarbari Khatun ties two bricks around 5-year-old step-grandson’s neck and throws him into the well to ‘avenge’ humiliation

In an incident fueled by revenge, a 55-year-old woman named Sarbari Khatun killed her 5-year-old grandson in the Hazaribag district in Jharkhand. The woman, a resident of Ulang village under Katkamasandi police station was arrested and sent to jail on Friday, September 15.

The police said that the accused threw her minor grandson into the well to avenge the humiliation committed by the victim’s parents.

Narrating what had transpired, Officer-in-Charge of Katkamasandi police station, Prakash Mishra said that the victim identified as Faizal Ansari Roz, and his similar-aged relatives used to come home together after studying in an Anganwadi centre. However, the relative came home alone on Thursday, September 14.

Worried by the sudden disappearance of Faizal Ansari Roz, his family members and villagers started searching for him and found his slippers near a well, Officer-in-Charge of Katkamasandi police station, Prakash Mishra added.

On Thursday evening, the boy’s body was found from the well, with two bricks tied around his neck.

During the investigation, the police suspected that a family member was involved.

The deceased boy’s father was also suspicious of his stepmother Sarbari Khatun’s behaviour and included her name in his police complaint.

Mishra stated Khatun broke down during an intense interrogation at the police station and admitted to murdering the child.

The accused stated she committed the act because she had been humiliated frequently by the victim’s parents and wanted to teach them a lesson.

PM Modi to inaugurate Phase 1 of ‘Yashobhoomi’ Convention and Expo Centre at Delhi’s Dwarka on 17th September

OpIndia Staff
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PM Modi to inaugurate Phase 1 of ‘Yashobhoomi’ Convention and Expo Centre at Delhi’s Dwarka on 17th September

On September 17, 2023, at 11 AM, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Phase 1 of the India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC), named ‘Yashobhoomi,’ in Dwarka, New Delhi. Additionally, he will unveil the extension of the Delhi Airport Metro Express line, connecting Dwarka Sector 21 to a new station, ‘Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25.’ This initiative aligns with the Prime Minister‘s vision of establishing world-class infrastructure for hosting meetings, conferences, and exhibitions in the country, further enhancing India’s capabilities in this regard.

According to a press release by the Press Information Bureau, covering an extensive project area exceeding 8.9 lakh square meters, with a total built-up area surpassing 1.8 lakh square meters, ‘Yashobhoomi’ ranks among the globe’s largest MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) venues. This remarkable facility, developed at an approximate cost of Rs. 5400 crore, features an impressive Convention Centre, numerous exhibition halls, and various other state-of-the-art facilities.

Spanning over 73 thousand square meters, the Convention Center houses 15 convention rooms, including the Main Auditorium, the Grand Ballroom, and 13 meeting rooms, accommodating up to 11,000 delegates. Notably, it features the nation’s most extensive LED media facade. The Plenary Hall within the Convention Center boasts seating for approximately 6,000 attendees.

The auditorium is equipped with an innovative automated seating system, offering flexibility for flat or tiered seating configurations. It features wooden floors and acoustic wall panels to deliver a world-class visitor experience. The Grand Ballroom, featuring a distinctive petal ceiling, can accommodate approximately 2,500 guests, and it includes an extended open area for up to 500 attendees. Additionally, the facility offers 13 meeting rooms distributed across eight floors, designed to accommodate meetings of varying scales.

‘Yashobhoomi’ also boasts one of the world’s most expansive exhibition halls, spanning over 1.07 lakh square meters. These exhibition halls will be employed for hosting exhibitions, trade fairs, and business events, and they are seamlessly connected to a grand foyer space. This foyer features a distinctive copper ceiling designed to filter light through skylights, creating an inviting ambience. Within the foyer, visitors will find various support facilities, including media rooms, VVIP lounges, cloak facilities, a visitor information centre, ticketing services, and more.

The architectural design of ‘Yashobhoomi’ ensures a seamless transition between its public circulation areas and the convention centre’s outdoor spaces. Drawing inspiration from Indian culture, these areas feature terrazzo floors adorned with brass inlays mirroring rangoli patterns, suspended sound-absorbent metal cylinders, and illuminated patterned walls, creating a harmonious and culturally inspired environment.

‘Yashobhoomi’ convention centre also underscores the dedication of its designers to sustainability with cutting-edge features, including a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment system enabling 100% wastewater reuse, rainwater harvesting provisions, and a Platinum certification from CII’s Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for its campus. The facility prioritizes visitor safety with advanced security measures. Additionally, the underground car parking, accommodating over 3,000 vehicles, offers more than 100 electric charging points.

The ‘Yashobhoomi’ Convention Centre will be connected to the Delhi Airport Metro Express line with the inauguration of the new ‘Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25′ metro station. This station will feature three subways: one spanning 735 meters to link the station with the exhibition halls, convention centre, and Central Arena; another connecting entry and exit points across Dwarka Expressway; and a third tunnel connecting the Metro station to the future Exhibition halls’ foyer at ‘Yashobhoomi.’ Additionally, Delhi Metro will enhance the operational speed of Metro trains on the Airport Express Line from 90 to 120 km/hr, resulting in reduced travel time. The total journey from ‘New Delhi’ to ‘Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25’ will be approximately 21 minutes.

Maharashtra government completes renaming of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Dharashiv, wiping out of references to Aurangabad and Usmanabad underway

OpIndia Staff
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Maharashtra government completes renaming of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Dharashiv, wiping out of references to Aurangabad and Usmanabad underway

On 15th September 2023, the government of Maharashtra issued a gazette that marked the formal completion of the renaming process for two significant places in the Marathwada region of the state. According to this, the names of the places Aurangabad and Usmanabad have been changed to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Dharashiv respectively. This gazette categorically mentioned that the new names will reflect everywhere including all stages of revenue administration viz. town, city, taluka, district, sub-division, and division.

In the gazette published by the revenue department of the government of Maharashtra, it was mentioned that the revenue department is changing the names of revenue areas. Accordingly, Aurangabad district will be called Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. Aurangabad city will be called Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar city. Aurangabad Taluka will be called Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Taluka.

Marathwada is an administrative and revenue division where both the cities getting new names are situated. This division and sub-division were earlier identified by the names Aurangabad and Usmanabad. The gazette said that it will now be called by new names. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar division and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar sub-division will be the new names. Similarly, the district, taluka, city and sub-division of Usmanabad will now be called Dharashiv district, Dharashiv taluka, Dharashiv city and Dharashiv sub-division.

On 24 February 2023, Maharashtra’s Ministry of Home Affairs approved the decision to rename ‘Aurangabad’ city, named after Mughal tyrant Aurangzeb as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The same decision also renamed Usmanabad as Dharashiv. Usmanabad was named after Hyderabad’s Islamic ruler Nizam Mir Usman Ali Khan. It is notable that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was brutally executed by Aurangzeb in 1689. Marathwada region was under Nizam’s rule till 17 September 1948 when the Indian Army defeated the Islamist forces Razakars to merge the state with India. These two towns named after tyrants were seen as a symbol of the oppressive rule of the tyrants on the innocent natives. These names are now changed.

Both cities have a significant percentage of the Muslim population. The renaming decision faced opposition from many Muslims and Muslim leaders like Imtiaz Jaleel of AIMIM. It was being discussed in the public discourse that the renaming is applicable to districts only and cities will bear the old names or vice-versa. But the latest gazette by the government of Maharashtra has made it clear that Aurangabad and Usmanabad will not be in use anymore anywhere.

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