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Iran’s missing Uranium: 400 Kg of the material, enough for 10 Nukes, unaccounted, say reports

OpIndia Staff
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Iran’s missing Uranium: 400 Kg of the material, enough for 10 Nukes, unaccounted, say reports

International nuclear watchdog agencies are faced with a crisis following the disappearance of approximately 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium from Iran’s nuclear program. The United States warns that the material could yield up to 10 nuclear weapons. The vanishing act was reported just days after unprecedented U.S. airstrikes, conducted with critical Israeli intelligence support, targeted Iran’s most fortified nuclear sites.

Operation Midnight Hammer and the uranium disappearance

The U.S. military operation, codenamed Midnight Hammer, deployed B-2 Spirit stealth bombers on an 18-hour non-stop flight from Missouri to drop six GBU-57 “bunker buster” bombs each weighing 13,000 kg on Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities. Israeli intelligence had provided satellite imagery showing 16 cargo trucks lined outside Fordow’s mountain-entombed complex days before the strike, indicating a “frantic effort” to move equipment or materials. Post-attack images confirmed the trucks had vanished, fueling suspicions of a pre-emptive relocation. U.S. Vice President JD Vance acknowledged the uranium’s absence, stating America would “work in the coming weeks” to address the missing fuel, while Israeli officials confirmed to The New York Times that Iran had transferred both equipment and uranium stockpiles.

Intelligence conflicts and strategic implications

Despite President Trump’s declaration that the strikes “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear program, defense officials offered more tempered assessments, citing “severe damage” rather than total destruction. Israeli intelligence analysts emphasized that Iran’s relocation of the 60%-enriched uranium, just below weapons-grade 90%, means Tehran retains a critical bargaining chip. As Israeli intelligence expert Ronen Solomon noted, possessing the uranium without functional centrifuges is “like having fuel without a car,” though he cautioned Iran might have undiscovered covert facilities.

Where could the uranium be? global analysts are evaluating four high-risk scenarios

1.⁠ Hidden Underground: U.S. and Israeli intelligence strongly suspect Iran moved the uranium to another subterranean site, possibly near Isfahan. Annika Ganzeveld of the American Enterprise Institute warned this would allow Iran to “wait out the conflict” and covertly restart enrichment later.
2.⁠ Transferred to allies: Harley Lippman, a Middle East policy expert, raised the alarming prospect of Iran entrusting the material to allies like Russia, North Korea, or China for safeguarding or future weapons development.
3. ⁠Dispersed for Dirty Bombs: While deemed unlikely by nuclear physicists, the risk of non-state actors acquiring the material persists. Experts note, however, that 60%-enriched uranium makes a “really crappy dirty bomb” compared to medical radioactive sources.
4.⁠ Logistical Feasibility: Jeffrey Lewis of the James Martin Center confirmed uranium’s transportability in reinforced steel cylinders, enabling discreet movement by road, rail, or sea consistent with satellite imagery of convoys at Fordow.

The IAEA’s verification crisis

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi urgently addressed the UN Security Council, revealing that inspectors last verified the uranium on June 17, a week before the strikes. Grossi demanded immediate access to account for the stockpile, warning that military escalation “degrades chances of a diplomatic solution.” Iran’s Foreign Ministry had earlier hinted at “special measures” to protect nuclear materials, further complicating verification efforts.

Damage assessment and future threats

While the strikes inflicted heavy damage, particularly at Natanz, where power disruptions likely destroyed centrifuges, the missing uranium represents a latent threat. Before the attacks, Iran’s advanced IR-2m and IR-6 centrifuges could have converted the 400kg stockpile into weapons-grade material for one bomb in under two weeks. Rebuilding this capacity may take years, but Iran’s “indigenous expertise cannot be bombed away,” noted Darya Dolzikova of the Royal United Services Institute.

Global Response & conclusion

The IAEA Board has demanded Iran disclose the uranium’s location, citing legal obligations under nuclear safeguards agreements. Meanwhile, FilterLabs AI detected a surge in Iranian social media sentiment arguing, “this is why we should have a nuclear weapon”, a troubling shift in public opinion.

The mystery of Iran’s missing uranium underscores the limits of military force in halting nuclear proliferation. As diplomatic pressure mounts and intelligence agencies scramble to locate the material, the world faces a destabilizing new chapter in the decades-long effort to contain Iran’s atomic ambitions. The coming weeks will test whether coercive strikes can achieve what years of negotiations could not—or if they have merely scattered a grave threat into the shadows.

Exclusive: Don Bosco School in Assam forcibly removes tilak of Hindu KG student, threatens her with corporal punishment, victim’s uncle files police complaint

Dibakar Dutta
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Exclusive: Don Bosco School in Assam forcibly removes tilak of Hindu KG student, threatens her with corporal punishment, victim’s uncle files police complaint

The Don Bosco School in Sirajuli in Assam’s Sonitpur district has come under the scanner over the forcible removal of the ’tilak’ from the forehead of a Hindu child.

It has come to light that on Monday (23rd June), a teacher of the Christian Catholic school identified as one Rini Rose wiped off the sacred Hindu mark from the forehead of the student studying in Kindergarten.

The incident left the child in a traumatised state. When the victim informed her parents about it, they rushed to the school and complained to the Principal (Father). They were assured that such an incident would never repeat again.

Screengrab of the police complaint filed by Avadh Kishor Verma

However, the child was subjected to a similar treatment on Tuesday (24th June). Tilak, which is sacred to both Hindu culture and religion, was forcibly removed from her forehead.

The kindergarten student was additionally threatened with assault if she showed up with the ’tilak’ on her forehead again. The threat by her class teacher, Rini Rose, has caused immense emotional distress to her.

Forced by circumstances, the victim’s uncle, Avadh Kishor Verma, filed a complaint with the Officer-in-Charge of Dhekiajuli police Station. OpIndia has exclusively accessed a copy of the complaint.

“This act not only hurt our religious sentiments but also amounts to an infringement of our fundamental right to practice and express our religion, as guaranteed by the Constitution of India. It is a direct act of religious discrimination and a deliberate insult to the Hindu faith,” Verma pointed out in his complaint.

He added, “I am ready to co-operate fully with the investigation and can provide any additional details or evidence required. Thank you for your attention to this serious matter.“

Victim’s uncle reveals school authorities forcibly removed ‘Tulsi mala’ of another child

OpIndia spoke to Avadh Kishor Verma on phone and learnt that he filed the police complaint on Tuesday (24th June).

He informed that the police team reached the Don Bosco School in Sirajuli soon after but the Principal (Father) of the Catholic institution informed that the accused teacher Rini Rose had already left for her home.

Verma stated that his niece has been traumatised by the back-to-back episodes and the threat of corporal punishment. The child has been taken aback by the behaviour of the school teacher.

“We want action against the teacher and the school authorities…,” he stated. Verma is committed to taking legal action against Don Bosco School in Sirajuli for their act of disrespect and religious intolerance.

He exclusively told OpIndia that a few days earlier, the Tulsi Mala of a Hindu Bengali student was forcibly removed by the authorities of the Catholic school. Verma assured to put OpIndia team in touch with the parents of the aggrieved family.

A similar case of discrimination from West Bengal

Hindu students, studying at the Nabapalli Jogendranath Balika Vidyamandir in Barasat Sadar in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, were recently stopped from wearing ‘Tulsi Mala’ (Tulsi garland) by the Headmistress of the school.

Identified as one Indrani Dutta Chakraborty, she was heard issuing a ‘fatwa’ of sorts to students at the Nabapalli Jogendranath Balika Vidyamandir. “You cannot wear Tulsi garlands to school,” Chakraborty warned.

The audio clip of her diktat created a storm on social media, forcing the Headmistress of the school to withdraw her order and tender an unconditional apology.

Update: OpIndia reached out to the Don Bosco School in Sirajuli using the phone number provided on its website. We were told by the school authorities that were going to the police station to ‘learn’ about the facts of the case.

Congress reduced to AAP’s “B Team”, BJP’s infighting, and Gujarat’s shifting ground: What the Visavadar, Kadi by-polls reveal

ભાર્ગવ રાજ્યગુરુ
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Congress reduced to AAP’s “B Team”, BJP’s infighting, and Gujarat’s shifting ground: What the Visavadar, Kadi by-polls reveal

The outcomes of the by-elections for two assembly seats in Gujarat have been announced. Aam Aadmi Party candidate Gopal Italia has emerged victorious from the Visavadar assembly seat, whereas Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Rajendra Chavda has claimed victory from the Kadi assembly seat. The performance of Congress has been notably poor in both constituencies. Italia secured his win with a margin of 17,554 votes while Chavda did the same with a lead of 39,452 votes.

The circumstances were different in each constituency, which accounts for the disparity in the results. These outcomes reflect the saffron party’s stronghold in Gujarat, while also shedding light on the AAP-Congress alliance. Clearly, the public is often reluctant to accept a new party, but the Aam Aadmi Party has managed to gain their approval, largely due to the support of Congress party. Additionally, there is a discussion around Congress being perceived as the “B team” for AAP.

Visavadar assembly results

The Visavadar Assembly seat became vacant following the resignation of the former AAP MLA, Bhupat Bhayani. During the by-election for this seat, all three parties BJP, Congress and Aam Aadmi Party nominated their candidates. Nevertheless, the grand old party’s inactivity was also evident in this constituency.

Its performance in the Visavadar elections was significantly lacking. The candidate from Congress, Nitin Ranparia, garnered only 5501 votes. It clearly demonstrated that the party destroyed its former stronghold. Furthermore, its campaign was minimal, there was no effective leadership at the regional level and the public also begun to view other parties as alternatives to Congress.

Nevertheless, as the oldest political party in the country, it is natural to expect that Congress would have a better foothold in the local area compared to other parties, however, the reality in Visavadar was quite the opposite.

The state of Congress is so dire that it has lost its deposit. This constituency was previously regarded as a bastion of Congress, but it now finds itself in a position of stagnation. Moreover, not just in Visavadar, but Congress is currently diminishing in credibility and influence throughout the entire state. The situation have escalated to the point where Gujarat Congress President Shaktisinh Gohil has acknowledged defeat and stepped down from his role.

In today’s political landscape, when a party like the Aam Aadmi Party enters the electoral contest, the oldest party, Congress, must take responsibility for its own downfall if it lacks a strategy or vision. It is evident that Congress effectively ceded the ground to AAP in Visavadar, as if it were its “B team.” Its lackadaisical stance towards AAP could have also served as an important factor in shaping the election results.

Congress did not campaign vigorously in this region nor did it address local concerns. Consequently, Congress completely failed to engage Patidar voters in Visavadar, who were drawn to Gopal Italia. This indicated that the country’s oldest political party capitulated to the newest one. Another contributing factor was the absence of workers within Congress. Other than the 5-7 individuals accompanying the candidate, it had no local workers, which led to a deteriorating situation in the election.

This inability to act can be likened to political suicide, which raises concerns about the party’s future in the state. Furthermore, it is important to mention that the Aam Aadmi Party and Congress have historically accused each other of being the BJP’s “B team.” Leaders from both parties often invoked the BJP while attacking each other. Gopal Italia also referred to Congress as the BJP’s “B team.” However, in light of these results, it is clear that Congress is, in reality, AAP’s “B team.”

Internal strife and candidate dispute leads to BJP’s loss

The loss of the BJP in Visavadar has certainly become a focal point of discussion in the state’s political arena. While this seat has not been a traditional stronghold for the BJP as they did not win it in the past either, but it presented an opportunity for progress. The opposition has consistently dominated this seat since 2012 and AAP’s prior victory bolstered its local organization.

Nevertheless, the primary factor contributing to the BJP’s loss was internal discord and poor candidate selection. The decision to field Kirit Patel led to dissatisfaction among local BJP members, which was apparent during the campaign. A massive number of voters from the Patidar community were drawn to Gopal Italia in this constituency.

Moreover, the Jawahar Chavda factor had been pivotal in the BJP’s defeat. He holds considerable influence at the local level and attempts to exclude him might have adverse effects. Furthermore, the candidate Kirit Patel had previously defeated the BJP in two elections. There was also discontent among the local workers regarding the selection, which was reflected in the campaign. Nevertheless, the BJP refrained from blaming the EVM following this defeat, showcasing its political maturity.

BJP leader Rishikesh Patel stated that the party will conduct an internal review of this defeat and will work on improvements for the future. This is the sole aspect that sets it apart from other political parties. Other parties are unwilling to acknowledge their defeats and instead begin to criticize the government, the Election Commission and the EVM.

In contrast, BJP refrains from such actions. This mature conduct was evident during the Lok Sabha elections as well. On the other hand, the success of Gopal Italia has infused new vigor into the party. However, this victory can also be attributed to the internal conflicts within BJP and the indecisiveness of Congress.

BJP wins in Kadi as party continue to dominate Gujarat

The triumph Rajendra Kumar Chavda by a margin of 39,452 votes in Kadi has solidified the party’s dominant status in the state. This victory indicated that the BJP’s influence in Gujarat remains robust and its organizational foundation is still intact. The selection of Chavda, regarded as a veteran leader of the Jan Sangh, enabled the BJP to strengthen its support among traditional voters. The polling rate of 57.51% demonstrated that the BJP’s campaign sparked excitement among the electorate.

The BJP campaigned on the themes of development, industrialization and farmers in Kadi, which resonated with both urban and rural voters. Rishikesh Patel characterized the victory as a ‘people’s victory’, suggesting that the BJP interprets the outcome as a confirmation of its popularity. The AAP and Congress candidates did not mount a significant challenge against the BJP, reflecting the weak opposition presence in Kadi. Aam Aadmi Party candidate Jagdishbhai Ganpatbhai Chavda was able to obtain just 3090 votes.

Now, the loss in Visavadar will compel the BJP to reassess its strategies. It must concentrate on new challenges and leadership to tackle internal conflicts and the grievances of local leaders. However, the substantial win in Kadi indicates that the BJP’s popularity and organizational capabilities are still as formidable as ever and will persist.

BJP now in better positions than in 2022

Now if we talk about the entire state, the defeat in Visavadar elections has not caused any harm to the BJP. The reality is that today the BJP is more successful with more seats than the it had in the 2022 assembly elections. As for Visavadar, as previously mentioned, that seat was not in the possession of the BJP before, thus the issue of loss is not applicable. Additionally, let us examine the outcomes of the 2022 assembly elections in relation to the present situation.

The BJP accomplished a historic feat by winning 156 seats out of a total of 182, in the 2022 assembly elections. Meanwhile, Congress obtained 17 seats and the Aam Aadmi Party garnered 5 seats. Additionally, the Samajwadi Party won one seat, while independent candidates took over 3 seats. The BJP established the government following its unprecedented achievement.

When we examine the current circumstances, the BJP possesses 162 seats in the assembly, whereas Congress has fallen to 12. The Aam Aadmi Party has successfully preserved its position by winning in Visavadar. To summarize, the BJP has augmented its assembly seats by 6 from 2022 to 2025, indicating a strong presence and influence in the state. Thus, the BJP’s defeat in the Visavadar by-election does not pose a threat, as that seat was not with BJP’s earlier. The party has added 6 more seats to its tally.

Read the report in Gujarati here.

12-day war ends? Trump declares ceasefire between Israel and Iran but sirens continue to sound in Israel

OpIndia Staff
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12-day war ends? Trump declares ceasefire between Israel and Iran but sirens continue to sound in Israel

On 23rd June (local time), President of the United States, Donald Trump, announced that Israel and Iran have agreed to a “complete and total ceasefire”. In a post on social media platform Truth Social, Trump said that the conflict would be over in 24 hours, calling it the “12-day war”.

Source: Truth Social

Congratulating everyone, Trump said, “! It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE.” Interestingly, Trump pointed out that the ceasefire would be done in phases, starting from six hours from the moment he posted on the social media platform, as Israel and Iran would have completed their in-progress missions by then.

He added, “Officially, Iran will start the CEASEFIRE and, upon the 12th Hour, Israel will start the CEASEFIRE and, upon the 24th Hour, an Official END to THE 12 DAY WAR will be saluted by the World.” He further announced that during the ceasefire, the other side will remain “peaceful and respectful”.

Congratulating both Iran and Israel on having the stamina, courage and intelligence to end the conflict, he added, “This is a War that could have gone on for years, and destroyed the entire Middle East, but it didn’t, and never will! God bless Israel, God bless Iran, God bless the Middle East, God bless the United States of America, and GOD BLESS THE WORLD!”

In a follow-up post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that both Iran and Israel approached him seeking ceasefire. He said, “Israel & Iran came to me, almost simultaneously, and said, “PEACE!” I knew the time was NOW. The World, and the Middle East, are the real WINNERS! Both Nations will see tremendous LOVE, PEACE, AND PROSPERITY in their futures. They have so much to gain, and yet, so much to lose if they stray from the road of RIGHTEOUSNESS & TRUTH. The future for Israel & Iran is UNLIMITED, & filled with great PROMISE. GOD BLESS YOU BOTH!”

Source: Truth Social

Conflicting statements by Iran

Following the announcement by the US President, initially Iran said in a statement that the agreement on ceasefire had not been reached. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, said in a statement that Iran has repeatedly made clear that Israel launched war on Iran, not the other way around. He added, “As of now, there is NO ‘agreement’ on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations. However, provided that the Israeli regime stops its illegal aggression against the Iranian people no later than 4 am Tehran time, we have no intention to continue our response afterwards. The final decision on the cessation of our military operations will be made later.”

Source: X

However, only 15 minutes after the initial post, without saying the ceasefire was to happen, he thanked the Iranian Armed Forces for responding to the attack by the “enemy” until the very last minute.

Source: X

He wrote, “The military operations of our powerful Armed Forces to punish Israel for its aggression continued until the very last minute, at 4am. Together with all Iranians, I thank our brave Armed Forces who remain ready to defend our dear country until their last drop of blood, and who responded to any attack by the enemy until the very last minute.”

Israel says it achieved ‘all objectives’ of Operation Rising Lion

Israel’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Prime Minister Netanyahu reported during a Security Cabinet meeting that Israel had achieved all the objectives of Operation Rising Lion, and much more. The double existential threat had been removed, and the IDF had achieved complete air superiority in the skies over Tehran, striking a severe blow to the military leadership and destroying dozens of Iran’s main regime targets.

Israel thanked Trump and the United States for their defensive support and for participating in the removal of the Iranian nuclear threat. “In light of having achieved the objectives of the operation, and in full coordination with President Trump, Israel agrees to the President’s proposal for a bilateral ceasefire,” the ministry added.

Israel accuses Iran of violating ceasefire

Hours after Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, Israel accused Iran of violating the agreement. Defence Minister of Israel, Israel Katz, reportedly instructed the IDF to respond forcefully to Iran’s “violation of the ceasefire with intense strikes on regime targets in the heart of Tehran”.

According to a post by Israel War Room, Iran fired a missile directed at Israel following Trump’s ceasefire announcement. Katz, in coordination with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, instructed the IDF to continue intense operations in Tehran. “These strikes are aimed at regime targets and terror infrastructure in the capital, building on the operations carried out yesterday,” Katz added.

Sirens sounding despite announcement of ceasefire

Despite the announcement of ceasefire and Israel agreeing to it, Iran has reportedly continued to fire missiles towards Israel. In a post on X, IDF reported sirens sounded at several locations in Israel due to missiles fired by Iran.

Israel-Iran conflict

The conflict between Israel and Iran began on 13th June, when Israel launched a massive airstrike on Iranian nuclear and military establishments, codenamed “Operation Rising Lion”. In retaliation, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a large-scale drone and missile campaign against Israel, codenamed “Operation True Promise 3”.

The US also entered the conflict and, on 22nd June, it initiated military strikes on three key Iranian nuclear facilities, codenamed “Operation Midnight Hammer”. Iran retaliated by launching multiple missiles at US military installations in Iraq and Qatar, including the largest US military base in the Middle East, Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

Israel and the US argued that Iran was on the path to develop nuclear bombs and it was essential to cripple its nuclear programme to ensure that the Islamic nation does not get the nuclear arsenal. However, Iran has repeatedly claimed that its nuclear program is only for peace, not for developing nuclear warheads.

Middle East on the brink: Trump’s reluctant entry into Israel-Iran war leaves the region in strategic flux

Lalit Ambardar
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Middle East on the brink: Trump’s reluctant entry into Israel-Iran war leaves the region in strategic flux

Despite President Trump having announced a ceasefire, which Iran appears to have endorsed, there is, however, conspicuous silence from Israel, thereby rendering the situation in the Middle East for now as fluid as it was. The whole world was in a constant tizzy, desperately trying to decipher “I may do it, I may not do it” & other such ‘cryptic’ statements President Trump had been making incessantly since the beginning of Israel’s airstrikes against Iran. 

And, finally, the US struck some of Iran’s most critical nuclear facilities, there is no scope left for any ambiguity about Prime Minister Netanyahu having succeeded in drawing in ‘seemingly’ hesitant President Trump into the ‘Rising Lion’ military operation against Iran. What remained to be seen was whether US defence forces would mark their physical presence on the ground which seemed from the beginning unlikely, unless Iran embarked on a suicidal mission with retaliatory attacks on US military personnel & assets, or only continued to facilitate via logistics and crucial munitions support as well as if & when found vital with heavy aerial bombings. The Iranian attack on the US base in Qatar is understandably face-saving customary retaliation.

The objectives of the present campaign have been the total dismantling of Iran’s Atomic programme and its anti-Israel Islamic clergy-led regime. Depleting the missile strike capability of Iran and the decimation of its military leadership as well as ‘scientists’ leading the uranium enrichment project is of course concomitant.

Already, as reports suggest US Navy aircraft carriers and other military equipment have been diverted to the Middle East and nearly forty thousand strong US deployments in the region were put on high alert.

It was known that Israel despite having inflicted huge losses on Iran, would still need an American arsenal like bunker buster bombs and corresponding special carrier stealth bomber B52 to penetrate the deep under-hill uranium enrichment facilities. America has just done it but with caution though. Destruction of munitions stores or munitions launching facilities of the enemy is a routine war game while the destruction of the uranium enrichment centre could have dangerous environmental consequences especially if the enrichment level is of a high degree as is speculated in the case of Iran. 

And, the way these nuclear plants are spread across Iran leaves the local Iranian population and even the neighbouring countries vulnerable to hazardous contamination. And, it certainly cannot be the objective of the current military operation, going by the repeated announcements by the Israeli leadership, that they have no enmity with the ordinary people of Iran, it is the Islamic clergy-led establishment that swears by “Death to Israel” ‘Death to America” slogan, that is the target. As the reports are coming, for now, there is no evidence of any nuclear leakage, suggesting American bombing was calibrated and measured.

Strategically speaking, even America wouldn’t want a devastated Iran left at the mercy of clergy led wounded regime for Shia dominant Iran with disbanded IRGC and of course, minus / defanged Ayatollahs as leverage to maintain the balance of power against possible Sunni hegemony in the Middle East.

President Trump’s statement “Iran must now make peace after US bomb strikes” and earlier calling for ‘surrender’ could be the indication of the plan that envisages an Islamic clergy-less moderate non-anti-Semitic political set-up in Iran (Trump could have a deal with Putin on Ayatollah’s safe passage to Moscow) that formally acknowledges the ‘right’ of Israel to exist and is ready to give up the uranium ‘enrichment’ agenda, should be acceptable to Israel. Any attempt to paradrop a pliable ‘leader’ from outside in Tehran will surely be a disaster.

Since, Iran’s proxies Hamas and Hezbollah have been largely decapacitated, in absence of any further support from the ‘new’ regime in Iran, will let Israel feel more secure paving the way for the national solution to the Palestinian issue in the long run. Since the present crisis in the Middle East is rooted in the October 7, 2023 savagery inflicted by Iran sponsored Hamas barbarians on Israel, only unconditional release of Israeli hostages both dead and alive and surrender of remnants of Hamas and other Jihadist groups still active, should be a precondition to any cessation of the ongoing military operations in Gaza. How Ironic, the President of the West Bank-based UN recognised Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas calls Hamas ‘sons of dogs’ while the Islamic Republic of Iran has patronised the very jihadists in the name of a very Palestinian cause. 

Jihadisation of the Palestinian movement by the present Iranian regime has sabotaged the national solution of Palestine. As a result, Palestinians stand almost abandoned by the rest Arab/Muslim world, only superficial sympathy is rendered to them now and then. Routine pan-Islamic rhetoric aside, as of today, Iran too stands isolated. Only disabled Hamas, its proxy has come out strongly against the American intervention. Cold shoulder in Moscow to the visiting Iranian Foreign Minister is all obvious.

Even the Islamic Republic of Pakistan which claims to be the champion of Muslim Ummah, exploits Palestinian issues only to whip up passion in the name of Islam. In the seventies of the last century, Zia ul Haq then brigadier on deputation to assist the Jordanian army, later on return rose to become the General of the Pakistan army and then usurped power, was responsible for killing thousands of Palestinian refugees in Jordan. This genocidal cleansing of Palestinians by Zia ul Haq resulted in the emergence of the terrorist group “Black September“ known for executing the heinous Munich Olympics massacre of Israeli athletes among other terror strikes.

In Iran’s immediate neighbourhood, America has military bases in Iraq & Syria while it enjoys considerable influence amongst Sunni Salafi Taliban in Afghanistan, exploiting the historical Shia-Sunni fault lines, Pakistan was also being roped in to besiege and pressurise Iran into submission. Although Pakistan does show customary outrage over Israel’s attacks on Iran there is no love lost between the Shia Iran and Sunni supremacist Pakistan. Pakistan-origin Pakistan-sponsored Sunni jihadists do not even spare the neighbouring Islamic Republic of Iran. In response to repeated terror attacks from Pak soil, January 2024 saw Iran retaliate with a barrage of rockets targeted at the Sunni Terrorist camps in Pakistan. And, Pakistan also returned the fire.

Field Marshal Asif Munir makes it to the White House dining hall, not because Donald Trump is enamoured of the Pindi Mulla in Khakis, he has been summoned to seal Pak’s acquiescence in the use of Pakistan’s ground and air space against Iran. Pakistan known for its perfidious duplicity, surely is going to oblige. President Trump has been kind and served Asif Munir lunch, but George Bush was harsh. At the launch of “Operation Enduring Freedom” post 9/11in 2001, the then US President served the ultimatum “You are either with us, or you are with the terrorists” & Gen. Musharraf readily capitulated to the chilling threat “We will bomb Pakistan to stone age” and gave away very Taliban that Pakistan had reared in its own backyard.

Govt. of India maintains that this is not the era of war and accordingly, it was conveyed by Prime Minister Modi to the President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian on the phone that diplomacy and negotiations should be the way forward.

The Indian government has India’s relations with Iran remain situational. There is oil trade and related investment, as collaboration on Chabahar port, both have been on the same side with anti-Taliban Northern alliance and post-2001 Taliban eviction governments in Afghanistan. To India’s chagrin, Iran has been regularly commenting on the ‘plight’ of Muslims in Kashmir and in the rest of India generally, even drawing parallels with persecuted Muslims in Myanmar and the plight of Muslims in Gaza. Only in 1994, Iran chose to scuttle OIC’s move to embarrass and harass India in UNHRC on the Kashmir issue because of strategic reasons to forge a common cause with India especially concerning the then evolving explosive situation due to the bloody civil war & emergence of the Salafi Taliban in the Iran’s bordering neighbourhood in Afghanistan.

Growing India-Israel relations are deep, beyond diplomacy, technology and military hardware. It’s like a civilizational bond between the two nations.

India is the worst victim of Pak-sponsored pan-Islamism-inspired terrorism, having suffered Kashmir jihad-led genocide of aborigine Hindus in Kashmir & numerous terror strikes across India including the 26/11 Mumbai carnage. The recent massacre of Hindus by Islamists in Pahalgam–Kashmir had a HAMAS imprint on it. And, Israel has shown unambiguous and unconditional support for India. Therefore, empathising, when it comes to an existential threat to Israel, India is bound to stand with David.

Number of Indian tourists visiting Turkey sees a sharp drop after boycott calls over its support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor: Report

OpIndia Staff
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Number of Indian tourists visiting Turkey sees a sharp drop after boycott calls over its support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor: Report

Following Operation Sindoor, Indians had called for a strong boycott of Turkey due to its support to Pakistan. Turkey supported Pakistan by providing it drones and other military equipment. The move justifiably angered Indians and many decided to look for other places as a tourist destination.

According to a News18 report, there was a sharp 24% decline in the number of Indian tourists visiting Turkey in May 2025, compared to May 2024—a month usually considered the peak of tourism in the country. The number of tourists from India to Turkey was 41,554 in May 2024. However, this May, the number stood at 31,659. The report adds that the impact could be more severe in the coming months as the full effect of the boycott becomes evident.

The backlash against Turkey started after India revealed, on May 9, that Turkish-made drones were used by Pakistan in the attack on India. The recovered debris included Songar Asisguard drones manufactured in Turkey. In response, major Indian travel portals such as MakeMyTrip, EaseMyTrip, and Cleartrip announced they will no longer promote tourism packages to Turkey, reinforcing the boycott sentiment across India.

Amidst this tension, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Cyprus, an arch rival of Turkey in the region, where he and the Cypriot President visited the historic center of Nicosia and walked along the UN ceasefire line—a powerful symbol of the island’s division. The President also showed Modi the mountainous northern region, occupied by Turkey since 1974.

Meanwhile, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Turkey to express gratitude to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for his support during the crisis. The Turkish government has shown that they will continue to side with Pakistan and work against Indian interests.

Rani Durgavati: The brave warrior queen from Mahoba who fought Akbar’s Mughal army, and died fighting for her people

Shriti Sagar
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Rani Durgavati: The brave warrior queen from Mahoba who fought Akbar’s Mughal army, and died fighting for her people

June 24 marks the death anniversary of Rani Durgavati, who was famous for her strength and leadership in Indian history. She was born on October 5, 1524, in Banda, Uttar Pradesh. Her father, Keerat Rai, was a Chandel dynasty ruler. Right from a young age, Durgavati was interested in horse riding, sword fighting, and archery. She usually went on hunting excursions with her father to the forests, where she learnt skills for survival and developed her combat skills as a warrior.

Rani Durgavati: The brave queen who dared to stand against Mughals

Born into the Gond dynasty, Rani Durgavati became famous for her strength and leadership abilities. Following her husband, Dalpat Shah’s untimely death, Rani Durgavati became the ruler of the Gond kingdom, while also bringing up their young son as successor. Dalpat Shah became king in 1541 and reigned only for seven years before his untimely death in 1548. Rani Durgavati ruled from the imposing Singorgarh Fort, situated approximately 65 km from Damoh on the Jabalpur road.

Singorgarh Fort, built centuries ago by the 7th-century Pratihara dynasty and afterwards possessed by Chalukya and Chandel kings before the Gonds, became the stronghold of Rani Durgavati. Her regime witnessed extensive administrative reforms and cultural advancements. While Vishnu and Ganesha statues discovered on the site indicate profound religious piety, few are aware that the fort still contains carved remains, such as limestone idols thought to represent Vaman, and a granary-like mandapa where the queen or her clan might have worshipped.

Durgavati’s fierce stand against Mughal expansion

In 1562, Akbar conquered the Malwa kingdom. His general Asaf Khan took control of Reeva kingdom. Rani Durgavati’s homeland, Gondwana, bordered these two states, so the Mughal emperor’s eyes fell on Gondwana too.

In 1564, Mughal general Asaf Khan, who served under Emperor Akbar, ordered Rani Durgavati to surrender. Rani replied symbolically: delivering a weaver’s beater as a refusal message. Enraged, Asaf Khan came forward with 10,000 horsemen and thousands of infantrymen, laying siege to Singorgarh. The queen and her men forcefully repelled him and made him retreat.

But the conflict came to an end once again when Asaf Khan came back with a larger force. Rani Durgavati marched at the head of an army of 500 horsemen and some elephant squads towards Mandla. Unfortunately, treachery from within—by her brother-in-law, Chandra Shah, who raised the alarm in the Mughal camp—doomed her. She left her son safe and marched on towards Narsinghpur, but was surrounded.

Realising she was sure to die in combat, Rani elected self-immolation rather than surrender. In local legend, she pulled out her dagger and killed herself, becoming a martyr. While accounts differ on just where she died, Singorgarh Fort is associated with her legend, such as a nearby place of worship consisting of five small temples which claim to commemorate her memory.

Remembering the warrior queen’s sacrifice

The practice of celebrating Rani Durgavati’s sacrifice on June 24 started during a Congress-led government when the then Madhya Pradesh Forest Minister Ratnesh Salomon organised the first “Sacrifice Day” function. Since then, every year on this day, local officials and residents visit her statue in Singrampur for prayer and offerings.

This year, some of the leaders who are scheduled to attend include Opposition Leader Umang Singhar from the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly. More memorial programmes have been planned throughout the district to honour the legendary queen.

Historic Singorgarh fort

Singorgarh Fort provides a tangible link to the ancient India of rich history. Excavations have revealed various stone idols—Baby Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, and perhaps Vaman—confirming that Rani Durgavati and the Gonds were pious and devout Hindus. A huge platform before the “Rani Mahal” (queen’s palace) and an adjacent group of five temples corroborate the religion and everyday life of that time.

Now, these buildings are not only historical monuments but heritage of a queen representing courage, dignity, and selfless devotion to her nation and people.

A legacy that inspires

Rani Durgavati’s story isn’t just a chapter in Gond history—it stands as a beacon of feminine power and patriotic sacrifice. Even though she never received the same nationwide recognition as Rani Laxmibai or other famed warriors of our freedom struggles, recent decades have elevated her stature, especially within Gond and tribal legends of the region.

Her unshakeable spirit, determination not to give up, and final sacrifice are commemorated by indigenous communities as an inspiring testament to leadership, pride, and honour. Although the fort has signs of wear and tear, renewed efforts are being made today to save its remains, such as temples and statues, so that generations to come can read about this famous queen.

As Rani Durgavati’s Sacrifice Day proceeds with heartfelt ceremonies and political acknowledgement, communities around Damoh renew their commitment to preserving her legacy. Storytelling, temple rituals, and local outreach ensure her sacrifice and courage remain alive in public memory.

In the coming years, plans are in place for guided heritage walks, improved maintenance of Singorgarh Fort, and the inclusion of Rani Durgavati’s story in school education—efforts that will help more people recognise her rightful place in India’s storied tapestry of brave queens and their enduring legacies.

From slums to modern flats with all amenities: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana transforming the lives of slumdwellers and giving them a life of dignity

Chandrani Das
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From slums to modern flats with all amenities: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana transforming the lives of slumdwellers and giving them a life of dignity

With the vision of Viksit Bharat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s flagship scheme—Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban)—was launched with a bold promise: to provide a pakka makan to every urban slum dweller. It was a commitment to inclusive growth, where the most marginalized could hope for a dignified life, not just survive in informal settlements.

Fulfilling this commitment, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), under the guidance of the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry, has accelerated efforts to transform unauthorized clusters into structured housing settlements. A recent example of this transformation is the rehabilitation of over 1,000 families from the JJ cluster in Ashok Vihar’s Jailorwala Bagh area to modern flats in the newly developed Swabhiman Apartments.

An official data says that out of 1,396 flats, 1,078 flats are allotted to the eligible slum dwellers of Jailorwala Bagh JJ cluster and the remaining 318 flats being allotted to nearby JJ clusters in Ashok Vihar. 

The OpIndia reporting team visited the JJ cluster in Ashok Vihar to speak with residents about their relocation experience. Anoop Jaiswal, a young man who had lived in a jhuggi for years, shared his elation. His glistening eyes reflected both the joy of receiving a new home and the emotional weight of leaving behind a life full of memories.

Another resident, in his mid-50s, pointed out the harsh conditions they endured in the jhuggi. “Juggi rahegi to crime rahega, juggi hategi to crime hatega,” he said, summing up the vulnerability and lawlessness that often plagued the area.

“Different kinds of opium were sold here. Nobody stopped anyone,” he added, highlighting the lack of regulation. He believes that the move from slum to flat will bring a drastic change in their lives. He said, “Only those who used to rent out these jhuggis for money are unhappy—because now, they will get only one flat. All the dhandha (illegal activities) ended with the clearing of the slum. People now have a chance to live a happy, healthy life in the new flats.”

Taking people out of slums and giving them a life of dignity

As part of the in-situ rehabilitation project, residents who were once crammed into temporary, unsanitary spaces now have access to 1BHK flats with a carpet area of 31 sqm. Each unit includes a bedroom, living area, kitchen, bathroom, and a balcony. The flats are constructed at a cost of ₹25 lakh per unit.

The apartment complexes are equipped with community parks, lifts, electricity, and dual water pipelines, making them a significant upgrade from earlier living conditions. The allottees contribute a subsidized amount of ₹1.41 lakh toward ownership.

While 1,078 families were found eligible and successfully relocated, the DDA conducted detailed surveys to ensure transparency. Around 567 households did not qualify under the scheme’s criteria, and a few obtained stay from the High Court, leading to temporary halts in some areas.

These housing efforts were not limited to a single locality. Similar transitions have taken place in South Delhi’s Bhoomiheen Camp, and West Delhi’s Patel Nagar, ensuring a city-wide movement toward structured urban housing. For instance, on June 11, families from Bhoomiheen Camp were relocated after receiving formal notices, and arrangements were made to accommodate eligible residents.

The transformation goes beyond housing—it offers a chance at social mobility. Children who once hesitated to invite friends home or mention their addresses with “Camp” attached now have a stable roof and an address they can proudly share.

The prolonged struggle of these communities also reflects how certain political parties have treated them as mere vote banks, exploiting their vulnerability for political gain. The unsanitary conditions reveal that these people were deprived not just of basic necessities, but of a fundamental right—the right to live with dignity.

However, as the city modernizes, it must also ensure that no one is left behind in the transition. Transparency in surveys, responsiveness to legal concerns, and timely delivery of promises will ultimately define the true humanity of this development.

In essence, what began as a dream for many living in informal settlements is now slowly turning into reality—a structured life, a permanent home, and a renewed sense of belonging in the city they’ve always lived in.

Uttar Pradesh: Musabbir molests minor girl in broad daylight in Bareilly, shot in the leg by police while trying to flee, arrested

OpIndia Staff
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Uttar Pradesh: Musabbir molests minor girl in broad daylight in Bareilly, shot in the leg by police while trying to flee, arrested

A Muslim youth was arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Police following an encounter while he was trying to flee after molesting a minor student in Izzatnagar of Bareilly. The incident took place in Gadde Wali Gali, located in Gandhipuram Phase 2, where the bike rider Musabbir made lewd remarks towards the girl before molesting her and fled after groping her breasts.

On 21st June, an underage girl was en route to a coaching center located in Gandhipuram, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Izzatnagar police station in Bareilly, when she was molested by a biker at approximately 3:30 pm. This incident was captured by a nearby CCTV camera. During the police investigation, the perpetrator was identified as Musabbir, the son of Mohammad Rais, who resides in Math Kamal Nayanpur.

Afterward, a complaint was lodged by the victim’s family and a First Information Report (FIR) was filed at the police station under sections 78/352/351 (3) Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and 7/8 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

When the Police tried to apprehend the accused, he opened fire at the police and tried to flee. In retaliatory firing, Musabbir sustained a gunshot wound to the right leg. He was subsequently taken to the district hospital for medical treatment. Legal proceedings are being initiated in accordance with the established rules and regulations.

The police also seized weapons from him. The FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) team was summoned to the spot as well. The Arms Act has also been invoked against him. Further investigation in the case is underway.

Odisha: 40 members of ST woman’s family undergo ‘Shuddhi’ ritual after she marries a SC man, viral video misused on social media to blame ‘Manuvadi’ casteism, BJP-RSS

OpIndia Staff
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Odisha: 40 members of ST woman’s family undergo ‘Shuddhi’ ritual after she marries a SC man, viral video misused on social media to blame ‘Manuvadi’ casteism, BJP-RSS

In Odisha’s Rayagada district, 40 members of a tribal community, all from the same extended family, underwent a ‘Shuddhi-karya’ or purification ritual after a woman of the family eloped to marry a man from an SC community.

All 40 members are from the women’s family and extended family. The incident occurred last week on Thursday, 19 June, in the Baiganaguda village under Gorakhpur Panchayat in Rayagada district’s Kashipur Block.

The 40 members of the women’s family tonsured their heads and sacrificed chickens and goats in front of their tribal deity as per their customs. The purification ritual was mandated by the leaders of the tribe because the young woman had gone against the tribe’s mandate and married outside the tribe.

The woman’s extended family was facing social boycott from other members of their tribe since the wedding, as per reports. The entire extended family had to undergo the purification ritual to be accepted back into the tribe, local reports stated.

The woman and her early 20s was in a relationship with a man from the SC community. As per her tribe’s customs. No member is allowed to marry outside the tribe.

The video clip of the purification ritual went viral online. The video clip showed dozens of men sitting with tonsured heads, and some people performing religious rituals in front of a shrine.

After the video went viral and enquiry was launched into the incident, Kashipur BDO Bijay Soe was ordered to conduct a probe into the matter. The BDO has stated to media that a team of block level officers was sent to the Baiganaguda Village to investigate the matter.

The members of the women’s family have told government officials that they underwent the purification ritual out of their own volition to be accepted back into their tribe, and there was no compulsion involved. The BDO has stated that his office would initiate government assistance to be provided to the woman and her husband for their Inter-caste marriage.

Video circulated online with misleading claims

The clip of the video, however, is being circulated online with a malicious motive. There are some social media handles who are using the video to peddle the narrative that the purification ritual is another example of caste operation, hinting at ‘upper castes’ for the alleged act of oppression.

A handle named Tribal Army shared the video and blamed ‘Manuvadi casteist superiority’ for the humiliation that the tribal family had to undergo. They handle wrote that the tribal woman’s family was forced to undergo the purification ritual and was humiliated just because a tribal woman married out of her caste.

Screenshot from X

The handle insinuated that the purification ritual was ordered by some upper castes, ignoring the fact that the ritual was undertaken by the family to appease their own tribal community and no other caste group made them do so.

“This incident shows that even today, some people abide by the orthodox ideas of Manu Smriti and attack the freedom and dignity of other groups, forcing them to humiliation. This is not just an attack on one family, but an attack on India’s democracy that is based on the values of equality”, the handle named ‘Tribal Army’ posted on X.

The handle obfuscated over the realities of the incident, where the family had to undergo the rituals put in place by their own tribe and that no other caste or tribe made them do so, to peddle its divisive agenda, while passing the incident as another example of casteist ‘oppression’, hinting at the involvement of ‘superior’ castes.

Some other handles jumped in to blame BJP and RSS for the tribal community’s own internal customs, insinuating that somehow, it was the BJP or Sangh that made the family members undergo the purification rituals.

Screenshot from X

Some media portals like The Lallantop also shared the report of the incident with misleading headlines. The language in their reports highlighted the ‘forced’ angle, wrongly insinuating that the woman’s family members were forced to undergo the ritual by some other caste group.

Conclusion

The family members of the woman who underwent the rituals and tonsured their heads have confirmed that they did it to be accepted back into their own tribe. Contrary to the claims made on social media and unclear headlines used in some media reports, the ritual was a part of the tribe’s own customs and no outside caste group was involved. Though the incident is sad and displays the extent to which casteism exists in some communities, it is wrong to portray the incident as an example of oppression or coercion by some other caste.

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