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Bihar Assembly Polls: Opposition leaders attempt to polarise Muslim voters on Waqf & Sharia, no mention of development and constitution in their speeches

श्रवण शुक्ल
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Bihar Assembly Polls: Opposition leaders attempt to polarise Muslim voters on Waqf & Sharia, no mention of development and constitution in their speeches

A major rally, “Waqf Bachao, Dastoor Bachao” took place on 29th June at Gandhi Maidan in Patna which was organized by a religious group known as “Imarat-e-Sharia.” Its purpose was to contest the Waqf Amendment Act 2025. Prominent leaders from the state’s opposition parties, including Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader and former deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav, Congressman and Lok Sabha MP Pappu Yadav and MLA Akhtarul Iman from All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) were also present there.

However, in reality, the assembly was not solely in opposition to the act, rather, it was influenced by the political landscape of the upcoming state assembly elections. Let us explore the nature of this rally, its underlying motives and how it intensified the political climate in Bihar.

What transpired at the Gandhi Maidan rally

On 29th June, thousands of individuals, especially from the Muslim community, convened at the historic Gandhi Maidan in Patna. The leaders at the rally launched strong criticisms against the Bharatiya Janata Party government at the centre. The leader of the opposition in Bihar assembly remarked, “This country does not belong to anyone’s father. This is our Hindustan.”

He charged the ruling party with not only seeking to appropriate Waqf properties but also plotting to strip Muslims, backward classes and Dalits of their voting rights. He announced that should RJD come to power in Bihar, he would not permit the imposition of the Waqf Amendment Act.

Image via @yadavtejashwi/X

Akhtarul Iman referred to the act as a conspiracy targeting minorities. He alleged that this legislation undermines the autonomy of the Waqf Board and grants additional authority to the District Magistrates. Congress Rajya Sabha MP Imran Khan Pratapgarhi articulated his views through poetry, claiming, “This act is unacceptable to Muslims. It will lead to our downfall.”

Pappu Yadav also tried to create similar atmosphere from the stage. Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) party leader Mukesh Sahni stated that just as a fish requires water, Muslims need a Waqf Board. He accused the BJP of plundering the heritage of Muslims. Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation ‘s Dipankar Bhattacharya argued that the act constitutes an assault on the entirety of India, and to thwart it, those who propagate hatred must be ousted from power.

RJD’s Abdul Bari Siddiqui expressed optimism that the Supreme Court’s verdict against the act would be favorable to them. In summary, the rally was filled with inflammatory rhetoric, prominently featuring discussions on Sharia, Waqf and Muslim rights.

What is Waqf Amendment Act and the controversy around it

Waqf refers to property designated for the religious, social or educational needs of the Muslim community, such as mosques, cemeteries or schools. The management of these properties is overseen by the Waqf Board. The central government implemented modifications to the Waqf Act, which is referred to as the Waqf Amendment Bill which turned into Waqf Amendment Act after it was passed in the Parliament and approved by the president.

According to the centre, these modifications aim to enhance transparency, provide greater benefits to women and prevent the misuse of Waqf properties. Prior to the introduction of the bill, consultations were conducted with the Parliamentary Committee, various Muslim organizations and numerous individuals. The central government also asserted that no law has been enforced.

However, the opposition parties accused that this legislation undermines the autonomy of the Waqf Board and is an infringement on the rights of the Muslim community. They claim that the act is a means for the saffron party to seize Muslim property and is further compromising their electoral rights. The Supreme Court is currently hearing the case regarding the legitimacy of the act and a ruling has yet to be issued.

Power game of Muslim parties in Bihar

Bihar will hold its assembly elections in 2025. Out of the 243 assembly seats, around 48 are predominantly influenced by Muslim voters, with the community’s populations varying from 20 to 40 per cent or more. Given that Muslims constitute 18 per cent of Bihar’s total population, they hold the power to sway the outcome for any political party. This is why opposition parties, including RJD, Congress and AIMIM, have begun mobilizing Muslim voters in their favor through this gathering.

The opposition claims that the BJP is involved in the politics of communalism and polarization. Nevertheless, upon reviewing this rally, it appears that the opposition is itself attempting to polarize. These parties are provoking the Muslim community to gain their allegiance by addressing matters such as Waqf. Tejashwi Yadav declared, “We are with the Muslim community and will fight for their rights until our last breath.” This statement clearly revealed that their intention is to secure Muslim votes for themselves.

AIMIM became active under the guise of Waqf

It is important to note that during the last assembly elections in 2020, AIMIM secured 5 seats in Bihar, particularly in the Seemanchal region. There are 24 assembly seats across the four districts of Seemanchal: Kishanganj, Araria, Katihar and Purnia and Muslim voters are pivotal in 12 of these seats. The party’s success disrupted the strategy of the opposition alliance (Mahagathbandhan) as their votes were split. Now, AIMIM is once again attempting to attract Muslim voters by emphasizing issues related to Waqf.

Imarat-e-Sharia and Maulana Ahmed Wali Faisal Rahmani

Imarat-e-Sharia along with its supremo Maulana Ahmed Wali Faisal Rahmani, contributed massively to the organization of the rally. The latter initiated a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at safeguarding Waqf properties. He communicated his message to the central government through 50 million emails. He has been removed from the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and his rally did not receive their backing. The AIMPLB explicitly stated its intention to avoid politicizing the matter, however, all opposition political parties were not only seen on the platform of this religious outfit but also tried to gain support from Muslims in their own ways.

What should be the actual issue in Bihar assembly polls

During the elections in Bihar, discussions should center around local matters such as employment, industry and development. However, this rally concentrated solely on Waqf and religious issues. Opposition parties are engaging in appeasement politics to attract Muslim voters. Those who accuse the BJP of polarization are, in fact, soliciting votes based on religious grounds. This rally serves as evidence of the same.

The Muslim community is also confronted with various problems. For instance, why does the ordinary Muslim not benefit from the Waqf Board’s property, which is valued at billions of rupees? Moreover, why are the Shia and Sunni boards organized separately? Asif Wasi, the joint secretary of Gandhi Museum and a Muslim scholar, asserted, “The Waqt Amendment Act is unlikely to produce significant results, as the Muslim vote is divided among 18 parties. Muslims represent 18 per cent of the votes, while non-Muslims account for 78 per cent.” He pointed out that the ordinary Muslim has not yet gained any specific benefits from the Waqf Board’s property.

BJP and JDU’s strong reaction to the Waqf rally

Vijay Kumar Sinha, the Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, took a firm stance regarding the rally in Patna. He labeled it as the extreme form of appeasement and a challenge to democratic values. He further remarked that the Waqf Amendment Act was passed on the recommendation of Parliament and the guidance of the Supreme Court. Its objective is to ensure transparency in Waqf properties and to prevent their exploitation. He made it clear that this law does not compromise religious freedom. The role of non-Muslim members will be limited to administrative duties, not religious ones.

Sinha criticized the RJD-Congress alliance, charging that these parties intend to create confusion and disorder for the sake of vote bank politics. He mentioned the Waqf Act of 2013, during which over 120 VVIP properties in Delhi were transferred to Waqf in a single night. He also emphasized that such a culture of collusion for selfish purposes would no longer be tolerated.

The Bihar BJP has directly criticized Tejashwi Yadav’s comments. “The genuine agenda of Tejashwi Yadav’s Gandhi Maidan rally has been exposed. Now, the discourse from the stage revolves around Sharia and Shariat, rather than Dr BR Ambedkar’s Constitution. Are Tejashwi Yadav and Rahul Gandhi planning to administer Bihar under Shariat instead of the Constitution? The public will react to this alarming politics of dividing the nation in 2025. Bihar will be led by Baba Saheb’s Constitution,” Bihar BJP expressed.

Janata Dal (United) leader and Bihar minister took a dig at Tejashwi Yadav. He stated that the later is hastily making statements in his quest to become chief minister, without considering that his statements could disrupt social harmony. He asserted that the opposition, particularly the RJD and Congress, are attempting to mislead the Muslim community, but the citizens of state have faith in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Referring to the rally as a political event, Khan stated that it was merely an effort to provoke sentiments, but in 2025, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will reclaim power, as the public is aware of the reality.

Who do the Muslim voters support between Lalu Prasad Yadav and Nitish Kumar

The Waqf Amendment Act has sparked significant debate in Bihar, where Muslims make up 18 per cent of the population and play a crucial role in elections. The credibility of two major leaders, Lalu Prasad Yadav and Nitish Kumar, is at stake regarding the issue. The former’s party, the RJD, has historically involved in politics centered around the Muslim-Yadav (MY) coalition. In contrast, Nitish Kumar is known for his “secular” image and his commitment to all communities, which has garnered him considerable support from a large portion of Muslims in the state.

During the 1990s, the two were allies and were perceived as secular. However, in 2005, Nitish formed a government in alliance with the BJP, establishing his own political identity. At that time, he received support from Muslim voters. In 2005, four Muslim MLAs from the JDU were elected, increasing to seven in 2010 and then five in 2015. However, in the 2020 elections, not a single Muslim candidate from Nitish Kumar’s party won, reflecting a decrease in his popularity among Muslim voters. The JDU’s endorsement of the act has further fueled this dissatisfaction.

Political equation of Seemanchal

The four districts of Seemanchal, namely Kishanganj, Araria, Katihar, and Purnia have a majority Muslim population. Out of the 24 assembly seats, Muslim voters play a critical role in determining the results in 12 seats. In the elections of 2020, the NDA achieved victory in 11, the Mahagathbandhan claimed 8 and the AIMIM took 5 seats. Presently, citing the Waqf Amendment Act, the RJD and AIMIM are focusing on this electoral demographic.

The “Waqf Bachao, Dastoor Bachao” rally has made waves in the political scene of Bihar. It illustrated that opposition parties like RJD, Congress and AIMIM are practicing appeasement politics to attract Muslim voters. This situation prompts the question of whether these parties are truly committed to the welfare of the Muslim community or if they are merely engaging in vote bank politics.

Time will ultimately reveal which direction the 18 per cent Muslim voters of Bihar will take in this election. However, it is clear that this rally has added a religious dimension to the state polls. Rather than addressing pressing issues such as employment, development and education, the political focus has shifted to Waqf and it remains to be seen how this will affect the electoral process.

Read the report in Hindi here.

UK’s media declares India as the ‘enemy’ over military and commercial ties with Russia: How they have been buying India-refined Russian oil for years, and harbouring India’s wanted criminals

Anurag
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UK’s media declares India as the ‘enemy’ over military and commercial ties with Russia: How they have been buying India-refined Russian oil for years, and harbouring India’s wanted criminals

On 1st July, Telegraph published an opinion piece authored by Tom Sharpe where he boldly declared India “an enemy, not a friend or a neutral”. The author accused India of being “friendly” with Russia through energy trade and military ties, something Western countries, including the UK, do not approve of. The article went further and attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally for allegedly fuelling Putin’s war by prioritising discounted Russian oil over Western alignment. It painted India’s defence procurement from Russia as a strategic threat and criticised India’s neutrality as “duplicitous”.

What the author conveniently ignored is that India has repeatedly and clearly asserted that it will make decisions rooted in its national interest, not someone else’s. Minister of External Affairs, Dr S Jaishankar, has said it bluntly, “Europe has to grow out of the mindset that its problems are the world’s problems, but the world’s problems are not Europe’s problems.” India is not fence-sitting. It is strategic autonomy, the right of a sovereign nation to choose its partners, trade policies and priorities, specifically when 1.4 billion people depend on affordable energy and a secure military supply chain.

If we go beyond the criticism of India, the core question arises: who really funds Russia? And what moral authority does Britain hold, when London itself has acted as a laundromat for Russian riches’ money, even while sheltering wanted economic offenders from India?

Britain fumes over INS Tamal but forgets history

The Telegraph’s outrage was triggered, in part, by the commissioning of INS Tamal, a stealth frigate built in Russia’s Yantar shipyard. The author questioned India’s continued military ties with Russia, as if a warship being built abroad were a betrayal rather than a strategic decision. Interestingly, this criticism conveniently erased the long and trusted history of India-Russia defence cooperation.

India and Russia have had defence ties for decades. When Western nations, including the UK and the US, refused India access to high-end military systems, it was the Soviet Union, and later Russia, that stepped up with affordable, reliable, and interference-free defence partnerships. INS Tamal is not an anomaly, but part of a larger relationship built on strategic necessity and trust between the two nations, and it cannot change merely due to the temperaments shown by Western powers.

Dismissing that legacy simply because the West is uncomfortable with Russia reveals more about the UK’s selective memory than it does about India’s defence logic. India’s gradual diversification in arms imports is on its own terms. One warship does not define allegiance, but Britain’s reaction certainly exposes its outdated expectations.

London’s long love affair with Russian wealth

Before pointing fingers, Britain should look into the mirror and examine itself. London has, for decades, been the centrepiece for disguising illegally earned Russian riches. Loose financial oversight, real estate loopholes, and welcoming “golden visa” policies have allowed Russian riches, especially close to the political circle, to park billions in UK property and businesses.

According to a 2020 UK Parliament report from the Intelligence and Security Committee, London became a “laundromat” for dirty Russian money. Transparency International has linked over £1.5 billion of UK property to Russians accused of corruption or Kremlin links, most of it in London. The UK’s National Crime Agency has reportedly acknowledged that half of the Russian laundromat transactions had ties to the UK.

After all that mess that has happened inside the UK, Telegraph has the audacity to call India “an enemy” for securing oil at a discount to fuel its economy. The irony hits at the right place, as the UK enriched Russian riches for years, while Indian consumers today are merely trying to fill their fuel tanks at an affordable price.

The EU’s energy hypocrisy – lecture India while buying the same oil

India is being vilified for importing Russian crude oil. However, it would be better if the West’s record were looked at first. Even after the Russia-Ukraine war began, Europe ramped up imports of Russian crude. In March 2022, Dr S Jaishankar rightly pointed out that Europe’s oil imports from Russia rose 15% month-on-month. Data spoke for itself in favour of India importing crude from Russia.

In the first nine months of the war, the EU reportedly imported six times more Russian energy than India. Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands were among the top buyers. Even now, while there is an official ban in place, European nations continue to import Russian-origin refined fuels via third countries. Guess who was the biggest of those refining intermediaries? India.

India buys discounted Russian crude, refines it, and exports it, including to Europe. In fact, in 2024, India overtook Saudi Arabia as Europe’s top supplier of refined fuel. Interestingly, much of it was made from Russian crude. How did this happen? EU sanctions only prohibit direct crude imports. If the oil is refined outside Russia, it is magically “clean” in Europe’s eyes as if the almighty has touched it and made it pure.

In simple terms, European cars are still running on Russian oil. The only difference is that now the fuel is routed via refineries in Gujarat, India. When the Telegraph calls India’s actions “duplicitous”, it fails to mention a crucial fact: that India is the West’s own energy laundering station. This quiet complicity has been overlooked by the “masters” sitting in Europe signing sanctions against Russian oil because it suits European energy needs.

India’s military procurement – a matter of strategic continuity

The Telegraph mocked India’s reliance on Russian weapons while ignoring the performance of systems like the BrahMos or S-400 during the recent Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. It conveniently ignored that India began these defence ties decades ago when the West refused to sell critical systems to India. Soviet, and later Russian, systems were reliable, affordable, and non-intrusive. These were the key factors that pushed for the defence posture that India now flaunts.

India cannot, and should not, replace 60% of its defence arsenal overnight, especially under global pressure. India is diversifying, but it is being done on India’s terms and not on any other country’s or leader’s. India buys defence products from the US, France, and Israel, while investing in indigenous capabilities like the Tejas fighter, drone systems, air defence, and DRDO missile systems.

Not to forget, India has a hostile neighbourhood. There is China on one side and Pakistan on the other. India cannot gamble on virtue signalling. It needs dependable supply lines, and Russia continues to honour its contracts.

Furthermore, Western arms deals are often piggybacked with political strings, intrusive inspections, or vetoes, none of which India is in a position to tolerate. Let’s not forget how the US sided with Pakistan during the Kargil War and how it paralysed Iran’s nuclear programme, which was started with the help of the US decades ago. India cannot afford such issues again in the future. Its continued partnership with Russia is not an endorsement of the Russia-Ukraine war, as India has repeatedly favoured dialogue. India’s relationship with Russia is more of a strategic insurance policy.

India’s energy needs are not immoral

Western pundits often confuse Indian pragmatism for immorality. However, Dr S Jaishankar has put it simply, “If Europe can look after itself, so can we.” He reminded global forums that India is a $2,000 per capita economy compared to Europe’s $60,000. Expecting India to give up discounted oil while Europe stockpiles LNG is not fairness, it is hypocrisy.

India buys Russian oil not to support war, but because its people need energy security. As Dr S Jaishankar said at the GLOBSEC Forum, “We don’t send people into recession to score geopolitical points.” India also continues to call for peace and diplomacy, while the West floods Ukraine with weapons and prolongs the conflict. Who is truly neutral is up to the people to decide.

UK’s hypocrisy on fugitives – London’s safe haven status

If Britain wants to play moral-moral, it must explain why it shelters India’s most wanted fugitives. Vijay Mallya, who is accused of bank fraud worth Rs 9,000 crores, fled to London in 2016. Even after India won extradition orders, he remains in the UK due to endless appeals.

Another fine example is Nirav Modi, who is accused in the Rs 14,000 crore PNB scam. He has been in UK prison since 2019, fighting extradition despite India’s airtight case. Furthermore, arms dealer and middleman accused of shady deals, Sanjay Bhandari, is also living comfortably in Britain.

In each case, UK courts cite “human rights concerns” and “prison conditions” to stall extradition. In contrast, the UK deports illegal migrants swiftly, including entire families from Rwanda and Albania. So what kind of message does the UK want to send here? That if you are rich and Indian, Britain will protect you, and if you are poor and desperate, you will be deported? How convenient.

It is evident that the UK risks being seen as a “haven for economic offenders”, and yet it does not act. One must ask, how can a country sheltering fraudsters moralise about “right and wrong” in global policy?

Whataboutism or necessary reality check?

India often gets accused of whataboutism when these hypocrisies are raised. However, this is not a deflection but a demand for fair standards. If the West believes buying Russian oil funds war, what about buying gas? What about the London Stock Exchange listing of firms linked to Russia? What about the UK’s billion-pound arms sale to Saudi Arabia during the Yemen War?

For those who are unaware, since 2015, the UK has exported arms worth over £20 billion to Saudi Arabia despite the fact that Saudi jets bombed civilian targets. Did Telegraph outrage? No. Because its outrage is only to school India and not for its masters running the UK.

All countries pursue strategic interest. The West has done it for centuries. India doing the same is not betrayal. It is called being mature, as India understands its people’s needs and puts them above any diplomatic ties.

The problem – the West expected obedience, not independence

What bothers many commentators in the West is that India no longer falls in line. It does not parrot the Western script. It does not vote the “right way” in UN forums. It buys oil where it gets the best deal, speaks bluntly at press conferences, and reminds everyone that its foreign policy is here to stay.

India is done with playing sides. It is playing India. And in a world of shifting alliances, transactional diplomacy, and economic nationalism, that is the only consistent position India must hold on to. Calling India’s desire to keep its own interest above everything else “enemy behaviour” is absurd. It shows that the UK still has the colonial hangover where India is expected to behave like a loyal subject, not a confident equal.

Conclusion

The UK may disagree with India’s Russia stance. However, it has no moral high ground to judge. Before questioning India, it must answer why for decades it let Russian riches launder money in London, why it still has an ongoing Russian-linked financial ecosystem, why it refuses to extradite Indian economic fugitives, and why it is still using refined fuel that originated from Russia via Indian intermediaries.

Neither the UK nor India is perfect or above criticism. However, to brand India an “enemy” for pursuing an energy deal while you host its fraudsters, fund your city with Russian cash, and quietly keep the oil flowing through loopholes is the height of hypocrisy only the West can achieve.

The world order is evolving, rather it is changing. Partnerships will be built on respect, not pressure. India will remain firm in defending its choices, its sovereignty, and its people. It is high time the West, especially Britain, realised a post-colonial India no longer needs lectures. It demands equal footing.

PM Modi conferred with the highest civilian award of Ghana, signed four MoUs with the African nation, shared UPI’s payment experience: Details from his visit

OpIndia Staff
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PM Modi conferred with the highest civilian award of Ghana, signed four MoUs with the African nation, shared UPI’s payment experience: Details from his visit

Prime Minister Modi was conferred with Ghana’s highest civilian award, ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’, on Wednesday (July 2). The award was presented by Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama for PM Modi’s “distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership”.

This is PM Modi’s first visit to Ghana since he assumed the office of the Prime Minister in 2014. Besides, he is the third ever Indian Prime Minister to visit Ghana after Jawaharlal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

How PM Modi’s Ghana visit panned out

Upon his arrival in Accra on Wednesday, July 2, PM Modi received a warm welcome from President Mahama, who came to personally receive him at the airport. PM Modi was also presented with a grand guard of honour. This was followed by a delegation-level meeting between PM Modi and President Mahama at Jubilee House in Accra.

Prime Minister Modi thanked the people and the government of Ghana for the special honour. He further said that the “shared democratic values and traditions of the two countries would continue to nurture the partnership”.

Indian PM expressed pleasure over the African Union becoming a permanent member of the G20 during India’s G20 presidency. “It is a matter of pride for India that under our G20 presidency, the African Union got permanent membership of the G20,” PM Modi said.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the enhanced trade engagements between India and Ghana. He said that Indian companies will cooperate in the exploration and excavation of critical minerals in Ghana. “Our bilateral trade has crossed USD 3 billion. Indian companies have invested 2 billion dollars in around 900 projects. We have decided to double our trade within the next 5 years. In the area of FinTech, Bharat UPI will share the digital payment experience with Ghana,” PM Modi said.

Major agreements signed in Ghana by PM Modi

PM Modi talked about increasing cooperation in many areas in Ghana, including investment, energy, health and security. He signed 4 four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the African country-

  • MoU on Joint Commission Meeting: To establish the Joint Commission Meeting at the Foreign Office level for institutionalising high-level dialogue.
  • MoU on Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP): To promote greater cultural understanding and exchanges in art, music, dance, literature, and heritage.
  • MoU between Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and Ghana Standards Authority (GSA): intended to enhance cooperation in standardisation, certification, and conformity assessment.
  • MoU between the Institute of Traditional & Alternative Medicine (ITAM), Ghana and the Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), India: To facilitate collaboration in traditional medicine education, training, and research.

PM Modi is currently on a 5-nation tour that began on 2nd July and will end on 9th July. The first leg of the tour started with PM Modi’s visit to Ghana and will be followed by his visits to the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago, followed by visits to Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia. 

Who is Soham Parekh, and why is he famous all over the internet, triggering a global meme-fest

Rukma Rathore
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Who is Soham Parekh, and why is he famous all over the internet, triggering a global meme-fest

An Indian tech professional named Soham Parekh has become the most famous name in the world of tech and AI social media overnight. Suddenly, memes about Soham Parekh’s abilities are all over the internet and every tech boss is posting about him. Who is this Soham Parekh? Let’s find out.

Early-stage startups wanted to hire him because of impressive technical talents mentioned in his resume and ability to ace interviews. However, he exploited this ability by taking on several full-time positions at once. He frequently assigned work to junior developers or was unable to perform because of divided commitments.

He might have succeeded in continuing had he not been exposed by the United States-based entrepreneur Suhail Doshi who accused him of working at many startups at the same time and defrauding them. Now, Parekh has turned into a subject for controversy and regrettably for him, a magnet of jokes on social media.

On 2nd July, Doshi, the co-founder and former CEO of Mixpanel, highlighted Parekh’s actions. He mentioned that Soham Parekh is involved with 3-4 startups simultaneously and targets YC companies, among others. Furthermore, Doshi revealed that he terminated Parekh’s employment within the first week and explicitly instructed him to cease his deceitful and fraudulent acts. “He hasn’t stopped a year later. No more excuses,” Doshi added.

The founder of Playground AI also shared Parekh’s CV/resume, pointing out that 90% of its content is fabricated and that the provided links were no longer active. He also noted that he attempted to reason with him, to clarify the consequences and to offer him an opportunity for redemption “because sometimes that’s what a person needs,” yet it evidently proved ineffective.

Doshi shed light on the magnitude of Parekh’s deception and asserted that he concocted persistent falsehoods rather than performing any actual work. This was corroborated by more than six other companies in answering to a tweet that advocated for moonlighting.

Parekh even fabricated details regarding his whereabouts. Doshi mentioned that he believed he was employing an individual from the United States and dispatched a laptop to an address within the country, but it was returned. “Allegedly it was sent to his sister,” he conveyed.

It is indeed challenging, if not impossible, for people to change their ways, particularly when those are steeped in notorious practices. However, Parekh, unsurprisingly, appeared to have come to a realization and recognized his mistakes only after his wrongdoings were busted. He reportedly approached Doshi for honest counsel and claimed that he has a genuine passion for what he does, and hopefully, that involves technology and not misleading companies.

According to Doshi, he then inquired if he had completely jeopardised his career and what he could do to improve his circumstances. Parekh was even willing to admit the truth. Doshi, however, entrusted the decision to the people and declared, “Vox Populi, Vox Dei.” This Latin phrase, which billionaire Elon Musk frequently employs, seems to be quite popular among tech entrepreneurs.

Spooked techies respond to Doshi

Meanwhile, Doshi received messages from numerous people, for whom he was indeed their savior, expressing that they had employed Parekh on the basis of his resume but were now going to investigate the allegations while some even cancelled his work trial.

Nicolai Ouporov, the co-founder and CEO of Fleet AI, commented on a meme which lauded the YC community for identifying Parekh’s deceit and remarked that he had only collaborated with him for one week, while his friends had employed him for several years. He added that Parekh has been doing the same for a long time and is involved with over four startups simultaneously, to which Doshi replied, “Has to stop.”

AIVideo co-founder Justin Harvey must have felt fortunate, as he was very close to hiring Parekh. Interestingly, he mentioned that Parekh truly excelled in the interview.

Similarly, others also replied to the post, supporting Doshi’s statement and outlined that Parekh was ousted after they realised that he was employed at many companies. It was also mentioned that he did great in the interviews but squandered their time as he failed to accomplish any work.

The email he forwarded to his prospective companies also surfaced on social media which shared a common pattern and was utilized to manipulate them into selecting him.

Nevertheless, amidst all the backlash surrounding Parekh, a glimmer of hope emerged when an account advised him to contact Technology’s daily show for an interview. Now, in the words of this person, the burden lies with him to discover his “one chance to fix it all.”

Amidst the scandal that Doshi referred to as “Soham-gate,” he jested that he would be canceled by socialists who would overlook the fraud aspect to justify having many jobs.

Soham-gate leads to a global meme-fest

While the tech world processed the unexpected disclosure, netizens were navigating the onslaught of memes that had been unleashed on social media over the issue. A person took a jab at how meticulously he crafted his email to attract his target companies and declared that if someone’s email is not as striking, it should be polished.

A netizen shared a picture of a desk featuring many computers, with “you’re Soham Parekh about to check in for the day,” mocking how the latter must have been managing multiple jobs simultaneously.

An individual humorously highlighted how Parekh has remained a consistent figure across all the technology companies developing modern digital infrastructure.

A user wrote that Parekh should offer lessons on how to excel in coding interviews, based on his remarkable achievement of securing many jobs.

Another referred to Parekh as a “10x engineer that every YC company seeks” and mocked that he had been assisting over 10 startups with his contributions.

On the one hand, the tech firms are startled by the incident and calling for measures to stop this from reoccurring and on the other, the online community has found humour in the situation. Meanwhile, Sonam Parekh who seems to have moonlighting superpowers, remains elusive.

US: In yet another incident of hate crime against Hindus in North America, shots fired at ISKCON temple in Utah with devotees inside

OpIndia Staff
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US: In yet another incident of hate crime against Hindus in North America, shots fired at ISKCON temple in Utah with devotees inside

A series of gunshots were fired at an ISKCON temple in Utah’s Spanish Fork city in an apparent case of hate crime during the last week. Around 20-30 bullets were fired at the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, while several devotees were inside the temple.

The shooting has caused structural damage worth thousands of dollars to the temple building.

“Over the past several days, 20–30 bullets were fired at the temple building and the surrounding property. The incidents occurred during nighttime hours, while devotees and guests were present inside, and have resulted in thousands of dollars in structural damage, including to the temple’s hand-carved arches, said Vaibhavi Devi Dasi, co-founder of the temple,” read a statement by ISKCON regarding the incident.

The mass condemnation by Hindu groups

According to ISKCON, on 18th June, a temple staff heard a loud noise and saw smoke emerging from the radio station roof of the temple. After some days, a bullet hole was discovered in one of the temple windows. The bullet travelled into a wall of the main worship space. Several bullet holes were found in temple arches and around 20 shell casings were found on the road outside the temple’s security fence. CCTV footage of the night of the attack showed a pick up truck parked in front of the temple but no person was visible.

The attack was condemned by the Consulate General of India in San Francisco, which called for swift action. “We strongly condemn the recent firing incident at the ISKCON Sri Sri Radha Krishna temple in Spanish Fork, Utah. The Consulate extends full support to all the devotees and the community and urges the local authorities to take prompt action to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the Consulate General wrote on X.

The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) condemned the shooting incident and asked the authorities to urgently investigate the case. The CoHNA also highlighted a pattern of similar attacks on Hindu temples in California, Minneapolis, New York, and Texas in the last couple of years.

In March this year, a Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California, was desecrated ahead of a ‘Khalistani referendum’ in Los Angeles.

Incidents of temple attacks in North America

Hindu temples have come under attack on many occasions in Canada as well, mostly by Khalistani elements. In November 2024, Khalistani goons attacked Hindu temple in Canada’s Brampton leading to severe criticism of the Trudeau-led government. In April this year, Khalsa Diwan Society Gurdwara, also known as the Ross Street Gurdwara, was desecrated with pro-Khalistan and anti-India graffiti.

There has been a string of similar incidents documented in recent years, underscoring a distressing trend of religious intolerance in US and Canada.

Kasba rape case in Kolkata: Accused Monojit thought the victim wouldn’t go to the cops out of fear if he recorded her rape on camera

OpIndia Staff
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Kasba rape case in Kolkata: Accused Monojit thought the victim wouldn’t go to the cops out of fear if he recorded her rape on camera

The prime accused Monojit Mishra of the heinous Kasba Law College rape case in Kolkata, informed the police that he believed that threat to circulate the sexual assault video would stop the rape survivor from approaching the cops.

Shortly after Monojit and the co-accused Pramit Mukhopadhyay and Zaib left the campus, the survivor called her father. She told him to pick her up after the heinous crime on June 25. According to sources in the Kolkata police, the accused asked some friends to keep an eye on the Kasba police station to see if the survivor registered a complaint.

He had kept an eye on the Kolkata police but soon realised the cops were after him. Monojit then got in touch with his lawyer friends and college seniors and sought help, but no one intervened.

Later, Monojit and Zaib met at Fern Road near Ballygunge railway station, which is about 1.5km from the college campus, on the next day, evening of June 26. Police soon tracked them down and arrested them on the same evening. The co-accused, Pramit, was arrested at his home that night.

As per reports, Monojit asked Pramit and Zaib to shoot videos of him raping which would stop the accused from moving to the police. He was sure that through this step, she wouldn’t lodge a police complaint out of fear that he might circulate the video. The probe revealed that the victim was in Monojit’s crosshairs since the day she joined college.

Monojit, an alumnus and a former head of the Trinamool Congress youth wing on campus, joined the college as a contractual employee. It is also noticed that through his political connections, he used to influence others on campus.

The co-accused told the police that Monojit wanted to teach the victim a lesson because she had refused his advances earlier. Monojit actually offered the girl the position of the college union’s general secretary, which she declined. This led to the planning of the June 25 rape. Interestingly, this position was offered by Monojit even though there had been no official student body on campus for years.

UP: Dozens arrested after ‘Bhim Army’ supporters of Chandrashekhar Azad’s party unleash mayhem in Prayagraj, NSA, Gangster Act slapped on miscreants

OpIndia Staff
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UP: Dozens arrested after ‘Bhim Army’ supporters of Chandrashekhar Azad’s party unleash mayhem in Prayagraj, NSA, Gangster Act slapped on miscreants

On Sunday (29th June), a unruly mob comprising members of the Azad Samaj Party(ASP) and Bhim Army vandalised and torched police vehicles in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj district after ASP chief and MP Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’ was stopped from meeting the family of a rape victim in Karchana. The police arrested over 50 to 80 people linked to Bhim Army in connection with this matter. The police also detained 8 minors under the Child Protection Act.

While the now arrested miscreants were vandalising police vehicles, assaulting local people and damaging public property on 29th June, visuals have surfaced showing them holding years and apologising in the police station later. Some videos show the police parading the hooligans with their heads shaved and hands folded, although it is not confirmed if the video and the current case are linked.

According to Yamuna Nagar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Vivek Chandra Yadav, people gathered in the nearby village of Karchana area, and some miscreants pelted stones at the police personnel.

Yadav said that vehicles were set ablaze and vandalised in Karchana. However, he added that the situation was normal as of now. Action will be taken against the miscreants under the National Security Act (NSA) and the Gangster Act.

Earlier on Sunday, Chandrashekhar Azad lashed out at Uttar Pradesh police for not allowing him to meet the family of the minor victim from Pal community who was allegedly raped in Uttar Pradesh’s Kaushambi district. He said that the police kept him waiting for over two hours.

After Bhim Army supporters caused ruckus in Prayagraj and set police vehicles ablaze, the police is set to imposed National Security Act and Gangster Act on the miscreants. Now, police is identifying the miscreants from CCTV footage. They will be made to compensate for the damage caused to public property. While several mobsters have been detained, police has deployed force in the affected area. So far, around 85 miscreants are reported to have been arrested.

Bhim Army supporters are accused of damaging more than half a dozen buses, four police vehicles and four other vehicles by pelting stones at them. Not only this, they also vandalised shops in the market. Reports say that the Bhim Army supporters also beat up passers-by on the way.

When the police tried to stop them, they started pelting stones. Reports say that over 4,000 stones were pelted by Bhim Army supporters on Sunday. In addition to property damage, many policemen have also been injured.

The police have seized 42 two-wheelers from around the market and kept them in the police station. All the vehicles have been seized on the instructions of higher officials.

UP: Naushad Tyagi posed as Rahul Tyagi and Ricky Tyagi, pretended to be a cop, sexually exploited and duped 20 women nationwide

OpIndia Staff
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UP: Naushad Tyagi posed as Rahul Tyagi and Ricky Tyagi, pretended to be a cop, sexually exploited and duped 20 women nationwide

A 32-year-old Uttar Pradesh man from Muzaffarnagar has been arrested on Tuesday, 1st July, for impersonating a Police Officer and scamming a minimum of 20 women in four states by giving them false names, false identities, and while posing with a stolen police uniform.

The impersonator, Naushad Tyagi, used various names such as Rahul Tyagi, Ricky Tyagi, and Naushad Tyagi, respectively, depending on the victim being Hindu or Muslim. He posed as a constable working in the Uttar Pradesh SOG (Special Operations Group) to gain the confidence of women by using the uniform of his friend, who is a policeman.

How the impersonation started

The whole act began in Sambhal, where Naushad had been living with a friend who was an actual constable. In 2019, when his friend went for election duty in Madhya Pradesh, he forgot his bag containing his uniform. Naushad used this opportunity, forged his friend’s signature, and came to Muzaffarnagar with the uniform.

He then started impersonating an SOG constable and put on the uniform to deceive others.

Widows and single women were targeted

Naushad, who has been married twice before, resided in various places in Muzaffarnagar with both women. He hunted widows or single women using social media. Naushad became friends with them, won their confidence, and initiated romantic relationships. He did so in such areas as Mathura, Sambhal, Noida, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahr, Delhi, Assam, and Meghalaya. Among the 20 women he lured, police say that he had physical relations with at least 10.

He created three different nameplates and utilised them based on the meeting. With the counterfeit uniform, he also utilised it to make illegal money and developed close relationships with a couple of actual policemen to establish social credibility.

Truth revealed after a woman complained against ‘Rahul Tyagi’

Naushad’s deceptions were revealed when he deceived a widow who had a small shop. He approached her dressed in a uniform with the name tag “Rahul Tyagi,” claimed to have fallen in love with her, and said he would get married to her. He then stole ₹2.75 lakh and gold jewellery valued at ₹3 lakh from her. When he began shying away from her marriage proposals, she suspected something and approached the police.

On 1st July, Naushad was arrested by the police while plotting to flee to another city in pursuit of a new target. Officials recovered objectionable photographs and videos of several women from his mobile phone, as well as the fake uniform he had worn. Police say he is a repeat offender, and his entire criminal record is currently being probed.

A case has been registered against Naushad under sections 316 (criminal breach of trust), 351 (criminal intimidation), 204 (personating a public servant), 205 (wearing garb or carrying token used by public servant with fraudulent intent), and 319 (cheating by personation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Pentagon says US strikes set back Iran’s nuclear program by up to two years

OpIndia Staff
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Pentagon says US strikes set back Iran’s nuclear program by up to two years

On 2nd July, Wednesday, the Pentagon declared that U.S. military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities have delayed the country’s nuclear program by one to two years, asserting the operation achieved its primary objective despite conflicting assessments from international watchdogs and earlier U.S. intelligence reports.

During a press briefing, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated, “We have degraded their program by one to two years, at least, intel assessments inside the Department of Defence assess that.”

Internal Defence Department intelligence reviews concluded the 22nd June strikes, involving B-2 stealth bombers delivering massive “bunker-buster” bombs and submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles, severely damaged Iran’s capabilities.

“We’re thinking probably closer to two years.” He further said that the three targeted facilities (Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan) were “completely obliterated” and asserted the strikes may have damaged Iran’s ambition to build a nuclear weapon.

The U.S. assessment hinges on the destruction of critical infrastructure needed for uranium enrichment and bomb development. Parnell emphasized the psychological impact of the 37-hour non-stop bomber mission alongside physical damage .

  • Conflicting Assessments: The Pentagon’s revised timeline contrasts sharply with a preliminary Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) report leaked shortly after the strikes, which suggested the setback might only be months, not years. That early, low-confidence assessment indicated key centrifuges remained intact and Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium (HEU) likely survived, potentially having been moved before the attacks. Rafael Grossi, Director General of the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), cautioned, stating Iran could resume enriching uranium “in a matter of months” due to its retained technical knowledge.
  • Iran’s Response and Uncertainty: Iranian officials acknowledged significant damage, particularly at the underground Fordow site, but Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei dismissed President Trump’s “obliterated” claims as exaggerated. Verification remains extremely difficult. Satellite imagery shows surface damage and craters, but it cannot confirm the status of deeply buried facilities. Furthermore, Iran’s parliament has suspended all cooperation with the IAEA, cutting off independent monitoring and leaving the program “in the dark”. The location and integrity of Iran’s HEU stockpile, crucial for any weaponisation effort, remain a major unknown.

Geopolitical context

The U.S. strikes occurred during a 12-day conflict initiated by Israeli attacks on Iranian targets. President Trump announced a ceasefire hours after Iran retaliated against a U.S. base in Qatar. While both the U.S. and Israeli governments claim victory and significant degradation of Iran’s nuclear threat, Tehran insists its nuclear and missile programs endure. The State Department has condemned Iran’s suspension of IAEA access as “unacceptable” .

The Pentagon maintains its assessment is ongoing, but stands firmly behind the view that the strikes delivered a significant, multi-year blow to Iran’s nuclear progress.

From Rare Earths to iPhones: How China is waging a silent war on India’s tech rise as Foxconn recalls Chinese staff from Apple factories

Jinit Jain
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From Rare Earths to iPhones: How China is waging a silent war on India’s tech rise as Foxconn recalls Chinese staff from Apple factories

As the world falls over itself to “de-risk” supply chains and reduce its overwhelming dependence on China, Beijing is employing subtle yet aggressive tactics to stall the global technology transfer to India, one of its fastest-growing rivals. The latest flashpoint in this economic and geopolitical tug-of-war is the sudden withdrawal of hundreds of Chinese engineers and technicians from Foxconn’s iPhone factories in India, a move that exposes Beijing’s discomfort with India’s rise as a high-end manufacturing hub.

Foxconn Technology Group, Apple’s largest iPhone assembler, has reportedly directed hundreds of its Chinese workforce based in India to return home, even as the company prepares to ramp up production of the iPhone 17 and expands operations with a new factory in southern India. While no official explanation has been provided, the broader geopolitical backdrop makes Beijing’s motivations apparent.

Earlier this year, Chinese officials verbally instructed regulators and local authorities to quietly discourage technology transfers, equipment exports, and skilled labour migration to India and Southeast Asia. This informal crackdown reflects Beijing’s anxiety over the steady erosion of its manufacturing monopoly, as global corporations increasingly diversify production beyond China’s borders.

The Trump shock: Tariffs catalysed supply chain diversification

The seeds of this shift were sown during the first term of former U.S. President Donald Trump, whose aggressive tariff wars targeted China, the world’s second-largest economy, in an attempt to counter its growing influence. China has openly challenged U.S. hegemony across various sectors, including trade, technology, and artificial intelligence, as well as strategic infrastructure initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative. Its ambition to reshape the global world order with Beijing as the central axis has unnerved the West, triggering efforts to realign economic dependencies.

Trump’s tariff blitzkrieg, combined with export controls on critical technologies, served as a wake-up call for multinational giants like Apple, compelling them to dilute their dependence on a single country for production. The COVID-19 pandemic and mounting geopolitical tensions only reinforced this strategy. India, Vietnam, and Thailand emerged as preferred alternatives, offering scale, stability, and the promise of insulating business operations from geopolitical shocks.

Apple, for instance, set an ambitious goal of manufacturing most of its iPhones for the U.S. market in India by the end of 2026, a move that not only aligns with de-risking but leverages India’s large workforce and policy incentives. But China, facing economic headwinds, domestic demand slumps, and the risk of revenue losses to competing nations, is far from passive in this transition.

Beijing’s playbook: Subtle, strategic sabotage

China’s response has been predictably aggressive. Beyond formal restrictions on rare earth mineral exports vital for electronics and semiconductors, Beijing is now weaponising its skilled labour pool to slow rivals’ ascent. The withdrawal of Chinese engineers from Foxconn’s Indian operations is a tactical move designed to disrupt the transfer of technical expertise and manufacturing know-how essential for scaling production in India.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has long emphasised that China’s manufacturing supremacy isn’t merely about lower costs; it hinges on deep-rooted expertise, assembly line efficiency, and a vast ecosystem of skilled workers, advantages difficult to replicate overnight. The removal of Chinese personnel from Indian plants may not immediately affect product quality, but it hampers workforce training, slows technology absorption, and raises production costs, creating friction for companies eyeing India as a serious manufacturing alternative.

Beijing’s playbook: Subtle, strategic sabotage

China’s response has been predictably assertive. Beyond formal restrictions on rare earth mineral exports vital for electronics and semiconductors, Beijing is now weaponising its skilled labour pool to slow rivals’ ascent. The withdrawal of Chinese engineers from Foxconn’s Indian operations is a tactical strike designed to disrupt the transfer of technical expertise and manufacturing know-how essential for scaling production in India.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has long emphasised that China’s manufacturing supremacy isn’t merely about lower costs; it hinges on deep-rooted expertise, assembly line efficiency, and a vast ecosystem of skilled workers — advantages difficult to replicate overnight. The removal of Chinese personnel from Indian plants may not immediately affect product quality, but it hampers workforce training, slows technology absorption, and raises production costs, creating friction for companies eyeing India as a serious manufacturing alternative.

Economic power play: Beyond iPhones and assembly lines

The timing of this manoeuvre is no coincidence. Apple is on the cusp of ramping up new product lines in India, and Foxconn is building a major iPhone facility in the country’s south. The prospect of India capturing a larger slice of global manufacturing — particularly for premium products like iPhones — is a direct threat to China’s position as the world’s factory.

Moreover, Beijing’s actions send an unmistakable signal to other multinational corporations: relocating from China comes with consequences. Whether through labour withdrawal, equipment export barriers, or leveraging its rare earth dominance, China is prepared to use strong-arm tactics to ensure that companies remain tethered to its economy, willingly or otherwise.

India’s Tightrope: Pursuing growth amid geopolitical tensions

For New Delhi, the sudden exodus of Chinese engineers underscores the complexities of navigating global supply chain shifts. Though Foxconn informed Indian authorities of the withdrawals, no official reasons were cited. So far, production hasn’t suffered significant disruptions, but experts caution that delays in technology transfer could hinder India’s ambitious manufacturing targets.

This plays out against a broader backdrop of frosty bilateral ties. While high-level diplomatic engagements between India and China have resumed, deep-rooted mistrust lingers. Direct flights remain suspended post-2020 border clashes, Chinese apps like TikTok stay banned in India, and Beijing continues selective export restrictions, such as fertilisers crucial for Indian agriculture.

The way forward: Shadow battles for global manufacturing

As the battle for economic influence intensifies, the world is witnessing a quieter, more strategic form of confrontation — fought not through tariffs or troops, but through assembly lines, minerals, and technical expertise. China’s subtle sabotage of India’s manufacturing ambitions is emblematic of its broader resistance to ceding ground in the global supply chain hierarchy.

Yet, the momentum behind diversification is undeniable. Multinationals have learned the hard lessons of over-reliance on a single country, especially one entangled in geopolitical rivalries with the West. For India, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity to develop its own ecosystem of skilled labour, advanced manufacturing, and resilient supply chains, independent of Beijing’s influence.

As this high-stakes contest unfolds, one thing is clear: the future of global manufacturing will not be decided by cost alone, but by resilience, security, and the ability to navigate the geopolitical crosswinds shaping the 21st-century economic order.

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