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Muharram violence rocks Uttar Pradesh: Clashes reported in Sitapur, Bareilly, and Lakhimpur-Kheri

OpIndia Staff
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Muharram violence rocks Uttar Pradesh: Clashes reported in Sitapur, Bareilly, and Lakhimpur-Kheri

Multiple districts of Uttar Pradesh, Sitapur, Bareilly and Lakhimpur-Kheri, witnessed violent clashes during Muharram processions on Sunday, 6th July. Resulting in stone pelting, stick fighting, property damage and mob clashing.

Sitapur: Muslim mob attacked a shopkeeper with the sticks

On Sunday, 6th, July, Violence broke out during a Muharram procession in Sahadatnagar village, Sitapur. The Tazia was going from Shahadatnagar to Karbala, simultaneously, the Tazia of Nauwa Amberpur also reached Karbala. To make their way, Muslims started removing the bricks kept outside the shop of Benchelal. When he resisted, the argument started which later turned into a fight. Tajidars attacked the shopkeeper with the sticks.

As soon as the news of the incident spread, the people of Sahadatnagar reached the spot with sticks. The clash erupted between two groups and four people got injured. CO Maholi Deepak Singh and SHO Imalia Sultanpur Shyamu Kanojia reached the spot along with the police force and pacified both parties.

Due to the tension, the Tajiedar took the Tajiya back. Later, Tajiya was buried at around 1 AM. The police have shifted the injured to hospital and started an investigation into the matter. The police force has been deployed in the village. The administration has appealed to the people to maintain peace.

Bareilly: Muslims chanted slogans in support of Pakistan

Muslim mob created a ruckus while keeping Tajiya on Sunday, 6 July, in Faridpur, Bareilly. Tensions rose when individuals damaged a clothing shop’s slab while carrying the Tajiya. In response, upset shopkeepers halted the procession and closed the market, demanding action against those responsible. Shopkeepers also reported that slogans in support of Pakistan were shouted during the incident by the Muslims.

Upon receiving the news, representatives from Hindu organizations arrived at the scene. Consequently, shopkeepers began protesting alongside these groups. To quell the unrest, Faridpur SDM Mallika Jain and CO Sandeep Kumar Singh intervened and spoke to the shopkeepers.

After the police arrested the individuals involved and filed charges against them, the shopkeepers ended their demonstration, allowing the Muslim community to continue with the Tajiya procession.

Lakhimpur-Kheri: Stone pelting during Muharram procession

A similar case has come to light from Shardangar, Lakhimpur-Kheri where two groups pelted stones at each other. According to the reports, On Sunday afternoon, the Tajiya procession of Sansuri village reached the Bada village. The people involved in the procession were mourning and blowing white powder with firecrackers.

During this time, some mischievous elements threw white powder on the houses of Siyaram and Jamunadin When they protested, some people in the procession started beating up Jamunadin’s grandson Pankaj. The situation further deteriorated when stone pelting broke out between the two sides.

Tin sheds, solar panels and stoves of many houses were damaged. Some people alleged that miscreants involved in the procession forcibly entered the houses and also threatened them. A policeman was also reported to have sustained minor injuries, although the police have denied it

Police have registered a case against Talib, Zahid, Suleman and Noori on the basis of the victim Pankaj’s complain. OpIndia also has a copy of this FIR. CO City Ramesh Tiwari said that strict action will be taken against those who try to spoil the atmosphere.

Pune rape case: Police say professor helped techie woman file false case- Selfie, powder, delivery guy’s forced entry all turned out to be lies 

OpIndia Staff
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Pune rape case: Police say professor helped techie woman file false case- Selfie, powder, delivery guy’s forced entry all turned out to be lies 

The rape claim made by a 22-year-old data scientist in Pune turned out to be a false complaint, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar stated on Sunday, 6th July. The woman alleged a man posing as a delivery agent sprayed her with a chemical, knocked her unconscious, raped her, took a selfie, and left a threatening message. According to Kumar, investigators found her story full of inconsistencies and ruled it fabricated, saying it misled the police.

Investigation unravels the story in just 24 hours

The woman had claimed that an unidentified man who posed as a courier delivery agent entered her flat in the Kondhwa area on Wednesday evening when she was alone, and forced himself on her. She passed out, and when she regained consciousness, he was gone, she stated in her complaint.

The investigation, however, revealed that neither was there any sign of forced entry nor any spray that could be used on the victim, the police commissioner had said.

According to the complainant, the man identified himself as a delivery executive who came on the pretext of delivering a courier bank document. But the probe finding says, The 25-year-old accused was not a delivery agent. He works with a multinational accounting firm in Pune and is someone the complainant knew for over a year after connecting with him socially. The man had come to the complainant’s house in the past.

Commissioner Kumar highlighted how quickly the Pune Police dug into the case. “We used all our resources,” he said, stressing that the city’s image as a safe place for women shouldn’t be tarnished by false narratives. 

The police measured evidence from CCTV footage, apartment access logs, forensic tests, and tried to trace any delivery agent who might have entered the building.

In less than a day, they found no sign of any intruder or unusual chemicals. CCTV and door logs showed no unrecognised person entering the apartment complex. Forensics found no trace of a chemical being sprayed.

The selfie and message were fake

Police discovered that the man in the selfie was known to the complainant. Commissioner Kumar explained, “She’s known him for years, and they’re from the same community.” Investigators concluded the selfie was taken on the woman’s phone, in which her back and part of his face are seen. The threatening message, “I’ll come back”, on her phone was also typed by her.

A highly qualified college professor, her friend was detained and questioned. Deputy Commissioner Rajkumar Shinde mentioned that a private college professor advised her on how to file the complaint and guide her through the process.

The girl was continue changing her statements

The case initially included charges of rape, voyeurism, and criminal intimidation under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Forensic teams took samples from the scene, seized her phone for analysis, and examined her medical report from Sassoon General Hospital, which gave inconclusive results.

Commissioner Kumar noted that the woman’s mental state was not good. He said, “The rape part is still under investigation.” She has since been referred for counselling and has provided her formal statement to a Judicial Magistrate First Class. 

Police also noted that she kept changing the sequence of events, which raised suspicion.

Nation outcry over techie’s claim

The case triggered widespread headlines across the country. News that a young IT professional and techie from Pune had been raped sparked strong outrage online and offline.

Once the police revealed the claim was fabricated, Commissioner Kumar warned that such false narratives risk damaging public trust and overshadowing genuine victim cases. 

He cited broader concerns, saying government directives recently warned against communities being unfairly targeted with false allegations.

Commissioner Kumar urged people not to misuse emotional narratives in attempts to defame the city, emphasising that Pune’s reputation as a safe place for women must be preserved.

Can Elon Musk’s $350 billion sustain the ‘America Party’ in USA? As the world’s richest man clashes with Donald Trump, read about ‘third party curse’ in US politics

Balendu Singh Angad
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Can Elon Musk’s $350 billion sustain the ‘America Party’ in USA? As the world’s richest man clashes with Donald Trump, read about ‘third party curse’ in US politics

Billionaire Elon Musk, embroiled in a bitter feud with former ally, the US President Donald Trump, declared the formation of the “America Party” on July 5, 2025. The move, announced on his social media platform X, follows weeks of public clashes over Trump’s $3.3 trillion “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which Musk decries as fiscally catastrophic.

The America Party’s ambiguous platform

While lacking formal registration or a detailed policy platform, Musk’s America party leans heavily on three pillars, aggressive fiscal conservatism focused on slashing debt and “wasteful” spending, technological accelerationism promoting AI, robotics, and deregulation, particularly in energy, and a claim to represent the “80% in the middle” alienated by partisan extremes. Initial polling suggests potential interest, with 40% of voters (including 57% of male Republicans) expressing openness, though Musk’s personal favorability sits at a concerning -18.

Why third parties crumble: History’s lessons

However, the history of American third parties since 1776 paints a grim picture for Musk’s ambitions. The US political system has consistently smothered challengers. Landmark failures include Theodore Roosevelt’s Progressive “Bull Moose” Party, which won an impressive 27% of the popular vote in 1912 only to collapse immediately afterward. Another one is Ross Perot’s well-funded Reform Party surged to 19% in 1992 but faded rapidly without Perot at the helm. Modern persistent efforts like the Libertarian and Green parties have struggled for decades, collectively holding less than 1% of Congressional seats.

Apart from that, Structural barriers are immense. Ballot access alone is a logistical and legal nightmare, requiring millions of signatures under wildly varying state laws. California alone demands 1.1 million signatures or 75,000 registered members.

The “spoiler effect” is a powerful deterrent as well, as third parties often drain votes from ideologically aligned major parties, potentially handing elections to their opponents. A notable example of this is Ralph Nader’s Green Party which handed the florida to Bush in 2000. Furthermore, the financial and media dominance of the two major parties is overwhelming; they spent a combined $16 billion in the 2024 cycle, while third parties struggle for coverage without proven electoral viability.

Musk’s edge and limit

Mausk brings a unique advantage to table which is his $350+ billion fortune. Providing near unlimited self funding dwarfing even Perot’s self-financing. His ownership of X grants him direct, free access to over 220 million users, which helps him bypassing the gatkeeping of traditional media. His party’s strategy reportedly focuses on targeting just 2-3 Senate and 8-10 House races to exploit “razor-thin margins”.

Yet, experts remain deeply skeptical. Political scientist Bernard Tamas of Valdosta State University warns, “It’s not like running a business. You need a grassroots movement. Money isn’t enough.” Lee Drutman of the New America think tank echoes the historical pattern: “Third parties are spoilers. They sting like a bee, then die when major parties co-opt their ideas.” Trump himself has mocked the effort, stating, “Third parties have never succeeded. The system seems not designed for them.”

The verdict: a billionaire’s Waterloo?

While Musk’s crusade taps into genuine discontent 58% of Americans desire more parties the weight of history and the mechanics of the system heavily favor failure. His party risks splitting the Republican vote, potentially aiding Democrats in the short term, before fading as most insurgent parties do. For a man who conquered the automotive industry and space travel, the fortress of America’s two-party democracy may prove his ultimate unconquerable frontier. As one associate reportedly cautioned him: “It’s a tougher problem to fix than landing a rocket.”

Musk’s war on Washington mirrors the hubris of past wealthy outsiders, suggesting that even the world’s richest man might finally meet his match in the arena of American electoral politics.

Palestine flag waved, stone-pelting, sword fights, gunfire and murder of a Hindu youth – Multiple Muharram processions across Bihar descend into chaos

OpIndia Staff
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Palestine flag waved, stone-pelting, sword fights, gunfire and murder of a Hindu youth – Multiple Muharram processions across Bihar descend into chaos

On 6th July, several incidents of violence and Islamic flag-waving occurred during Muharram processions across Bihar. In Jamui district, two separate flag-related controversies surfaced. In one viral video from Sonou block’s Paramathihana village, one Muslim man was seen waving a Pakistani flag while standing atop a DJ system during a Muharram procession. The incident sparked widespread outrage on social media. Reportedly, police personnel were present but failed to intervene.

Following the backlash, Sonou police station in-charge Dharmendra Kumar admitted that the flag was not noticed during the event. He assured that legal action will be taken after identifying the individual involved in waving the Pakistani flag.

In another incident from Jamui town, a Palestinian flag was waved in broad daylight during a similar Muharram procession. Though no violence was reported in this case, the matter has been taken up by the SDPO, who confirmed that an investigation is underway. Additional police force has been deployed in the district to avoid further tensions.

Hajipur violence turns procession into stampede-like chaos

In Hajipur of Vaishali district, communal tension escalated near Karbala on the morning of 7th July when an argument broke out over the display of sharp weapons during a Tajia procession. The dispute led to severe stone-pelting between two groups. Several persons were injured and a stampede-like situation formed at the site of the incident.

SDPO Subodh Kumar led the police response along with the SDM. He said in a statement that the situation was promptly brought under control. The injured were given first aid. He confirmed that the confrontation began over the provocative display of weapons and was not a premeditated clash. Further investigation in the matter is underway. Additional police personnel have been deployed in the sensitive areas.

Hindu man killed in East Champaran as tensions explode

A 22-year-old young man named Ajay Yadav was brutally murdered and two others were critically injured during a violent clash in East Champaran’s Menhasi block on the night of 6th July. The incident took place near Kothiya Bazar. There was already tension between the two communities in the region that escalated during the Muharram procession.

According to the police, a group of Muslim youths allegedly attacked the other side with sticks and stones. Two individuals have been detained so far. The authorities are trying to identify the remaining accused in the case using video evidence and eyewitness accounts. A flag march was conducted on the morning of 7th July. Internet services have been put under surveillance to prevent the spread of rumours.

Bhagalpur sees swords and gunfire in the streets

On the evening of 6th July, the Goradih area of Bhagalpur district turned into a warzone. Two groups clashed during a Muharram procession which began peacefully but soon turned into violent chaos involving sword fights, open gunfire, and massive stone-pelting.

According to the eyewitnesses, the procession passed through a neighbourhood with a history of communal tensions. One group provoked the other by hurling abuses and entering sensitive areas, which led to a full-blown confrontation.

Several people were injured. Mobile videos of gunshots and armed men went viral on social media. Several FIRs have been registered by the police on the complaint of both sides. Police have vowed strict action in the matter. A senior police officer told media, “We are analysing CCTV and mobile footage. The guilty will not be spared.”

Tensions in Lodipur and Navgachia

On 6th July, violence broke out in Ustu village of Lodipur during a Muharram procession, reportedly over a route disagreement. A Muslim group wanted to take the procession through a path passing close to the residential area where the other faction lived. When opposed, the argument escalated to gunfire and baton fights. Several people were injured.

Local police acted swiftly on receiving the information and rushed to the spot to restore order. Injured persons were taken to the nearby hospital. Meanwhile, in Navgachia’s Nhawanipur Balha area, stones were allegedly thrown from a mosque’s rooftop on the passing procession, in which several participants were injured. Senior individuals camped at both locations and additional forces were deployed.

Official response

Authorities across the affected districts have said that strict action will be taken against those involved in violence. Peace meetings between community elders were organised by the local authorities. Law enforcement agencies remained on high alert.

According to the Additional Chief Secretary, district administrations have been instructed to enhance pre-emptive intelligence gathering and ensure visible policing during all upcoming events.

Relentless attacks on journalists by Islamist mobs — 14 incidents exposed by OpIndia. Yet, the Editors Guild remains conveniently silent: Free speech only matters selectively?

Saumya Singh
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Relentless attacks on journalists by Islamist mobs — 14 incidents exposed by OpIndia. Yet, the Editors Guild remains conveniently silent: Free speech only matters selectively?


On July 4, All India News journalist Supriya Pathak and cameraman Shyam were brutally attacked by an Islamist mob in the Bengali colony of the Seemapuri area of ​​Delhi. The Burqa-clad women assaulted Supriya and pulled her hair, along with attacking the cameraman accompanying her.

This, however, is not the first time that Islamist mobs have attacked Hindu journalists. There have been numerous incidents wherein Muslim mobs assaulted Hindu journalists if their reporting centered on bringing up facts instead of peddling the Muslim victimhood narrative. OpIndia has compiled 14 such incidents.

All India News reporter Supriya and cameraman Shyam attacked by Muslim mob in Seemapuri

On Friday, 4th July 2025 evening, All India News reporter Supriya Pathak and her cameraman Shyam were brutally attacked by a Muslim mob in the Bengali settlement of the Seemapuri area of ​​Delhi. The attack took place when Supriya was reporting on the issue of illegal encroachment on government land and slums and her cameraman Shyam was holding the camera in front of a mosque near the Bengali market.

The Burqa-clad Muslim women pulled Supriya’s hair, and the mob assaulted both her and her cameraman Shyam with stones and belts. Supriya’s leg suffered a fracture in this attack. The attackers snatched the camera and mic along with Supriya’s phone and purse.

Muslim mob attacks Hindu woman journalist in Delhi

On Wednesday, 2 July 2025 in Delhi, a Hindu female journalist went to talk to some Muslims residing there illegally. In no time, a Muslim mob surrounded her and started beating her. The fundamentalists attacked the female journalist with stones while she was reporting. When she questioned their illegal stay there, the mob started threatening her with a knife.

Female journalist doing ground report from Jaipur’s Muslim-dominated area, gets threats and chased out

In Rajasthan’s Jaipur, a female journalist went to a Muslim-dominated area for reporting on 28th April 2025. The Muslim mob asked the female journalist to turn off the camera, and when she refused to do so, they threatened her and started chasing her out of the area.

Sudarshan News journalists attacked by pro-Waqf board mob in Delhi

On 17th March 2025, Muslim protesters were protesting against Waqf in Delhi. Like other media persons, journalists of Sudarshan News also asked questions about this to the Muslims gathered there. Since the Muslims interacting with the reporter could not answer, they resorted to what they are best at and attacked the journalists.

AmarUjala journalist attacked by Muslim mob in Haldwani, Nainital

On 8 February 2024, an administrative team reached Haldwani in Nainital to demolish the illegal mosque and madrassas built in Banbhulpura. Media personnel were also present there during this time. Miffed over the decision to demolish the mosque despite it being illegal, the local Muslims not only assaulted the administrative teams but also beat up journalists.

Ironically, these included journalists who had once published news in support of the same Islamists. Amar Ujala journalist Rajendra Singh Bisht was also injured in this attack. Not only this, Muslims also burnt down police stations and petrol pumps and tried to burn a policeman alive.

Hindu journalists were selectively attacked in Haldwani

In the February 2024 violence in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani, the rioting Muslims identified the police officials and the Hindu journalists reporting there and attacked them. Sanjay, a journalist at Amrit Vichar was also critically injured in this attack and was admitted to the ICU for several days.

Monis and Ehsaan chopped off the fingers of a journalist in Lucknow

In Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow, the renowned and courageous journalist Kavi Tiwari was ambushed by Mohammad Monis, Mohammad Ehsan and his companions on 29th April 2025. The Muslim assailants attacked Kavi Tiwari when he was going to the temple.

Tiwari suffered serious injuries in this sudden attack. The attackers stabbed him several times with a knife, due to which not only his fingers but also his face was badly cut.

Muslims stopped a woman journalist’s car for hours in Jharkhand

On 18 October 2024, journalist Archana reached Pakur in Jharkhand to report on illegal Rohingyas and Bangladeshis staying there. When her car was passing through Pakur, Muslims came close to Archana’s car and threatened her. Muslims stopped her car created a ruckus for a long time and prevented her from leaving. However, Archana somehow managed to save her life and get out of there.

Female journalist beaten up in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh

On 31 March 2024, in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, female journalist Archana Tiwari, who had gone to report after the death of Mukhtar Ansari, was attacked by a Muslim mob. During the reporting, the female journalist was also pushed and shoved by the local Muslims. Archana was also injured in this attack.

Dainik Jagran journalist attacked by Muslim mob

On 10 July 2024, Dainik Jagran journalist Amit was attacked with a sharp weapon by people of the Muslim community in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh. He suffered serious injuries in this. Amit somehow saved his life from the Muslim mob.

Muslim mob attacked Sudarshan News journalist

A journalist of Sudarshan News was reporting on 31 August 2023. Meanwhile, a Muslim man attacked him. Not only this, he also tried to run his car over the journalist. Due to this, the journalist fell to the ground.

Muslim mob attacks woman journalist who exposed cow slaughter in Karnataka

On 5 December 2020, a Muslim mob attacked a female journalist who exposed the truth of the illegal cow slaughter gang in Pension Mohalla of Hassan district in Karnataka. The burqa-clad women in the mob not only misbehaved with the female journalist but also threatened to kill her.

Republic TV journalist Pooja Prasanna attacked by a Muslim mob in Kerala

Republic TV journalist Pooja Prasanna was attacked by a Muslim mob while covering the Sabarimala temple on 17 October 2018 in Pathanamthitta, Kerala. Meanwhile, Islamic fundamentalists also tried to break the glass of Pooja Prasanna’s car.

India Today journalist attacked for reporting on illegal slaughterhouse in Karnataka

On 10 August 2018, while an India Today journalist was reporting on a raid against illegal slaughterhouses in Kodipalya village in Karnataka’s Ramnagar district, a Muslim mob attacked the journalist and the police team outside the slaughterhouse. After the raid, 71 calves were rescued and an FIR was registered against 7 accused.

There is an evident pattern that Islamists are following across the country and that pattern is to resort to violence to silence those voices, especially media voices, which do not align with their agenda. When journalists question them about any illegal construction and these Muslims do not have an answer, then they start deadly attacks to prevent the truth of their sinister intentions from coming out.

India to build 8 mega shipbuilding clusters, Modi govt’s ₹25000 crore maritime push taking shape along coastlines

Balendu Singh Angad
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India to build 8 mega shipbuilding clusters, Modi govt’s ₹25000 crore maritime push taking shape along coastlines

In a monumental stride towards making India a global maritime hub, the Modi government has unveiled plans to develop eight mega shipbuilding and repair clusters along India’s coastline. This ambitious initiative, central to India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 aims to propel the nation into the world’s top five shipbuilding powers by 2047, directly challenging the dominance of China, South Korea, and Japan in the $220 billion global market.

The Blueprint: Clusters, capacities, and coastal transformation

This project is a cornerstone of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The blueprint includes five greenfield hubs in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, designed as integrated ecosystems for ship manufacturing, equipment production, and allied services.

Complementing these are three brownfield expansions at Vadinar and Kandla in Gujarat, and Cochin in Kerala, focusing on specialised ship repair and large vessel construction. Land with statutory clearances and road-rail connectivity has been secured, with state governments forming Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) to accelerate development.

Financial engine room: Policy, funds, and incentives

Fueling this vision is unprecedented financial backing. The Union Budget 2025-26 established a ₹25,000 crore ($3 billion) Maritime Devlopment Fund to finance infrastructure and ship acquisition, targeting ₹1.5 lakh crore ($18 billion) in sectoral investments by 2030. A revamped Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP 2.0) allocates ₹18,090 crore ($2.2 billion) for subsidies, including 30% support for green vessels.

The grant of infrastructure status for large ships is expected to reduce capital costs by 20-25%. A flagship ₹57,000 crore investment at Kandla Port featuring a VLCC shipyard for 320,000-tonne crude carriers epitomises the project’s scale.

Global partnerships: Technology transfer and market access

To bridge technology gaps, India is forging strategic global partnerships. South Korea’s HD Hyundai is finalizing a ₹10,000 crore joint venture with Cochin Shipyard in Tamil Nadu for container vessels. European collaborators like Norway’s Kongsberg Maritime and Denmark’s Maersk are advancing projects in smart ports and green shipping, while Japanese giants Imabari and Mitsubishi are being courted for green hybrid vessel projects in Andhra Pradesh.

Economic ripple effects: Jobs, trade, and security

Economically, the clusters promise transformative impact: India’s domestic shipbuilding market share is projected to surge from under 1% today to 7% by 2030 and 69% by 2047, creating 1.1 million direct and indirect jobs in allied industries. The newly launched Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL) will enhance trade resilience, reducing reliance on foreign vessels exposed during crises like Red Sea disruptions.

Sustainability Imperative: Green ports and corridors

Sustainability is woven into the plan, with ports like Kandla, Paradip in Odisha, and Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu pioneering green hydrogen bunkering. A pilot coastal corridor between Kandla and Tuticorin will showcase hydrogen/ammonia-powered vessels, while all major ports must deploy eco-friendly “green tugs” within three months.

Navigating challenges

Despite momentum, the Challenges still remain, including port capacity deficits. Port capacity must quadruple to 10 billion tonnes by 2047 to handle projected 6-7 billion tonne cargo flows. SBFAP 2.0 is giving subsidies to counter 15-20% higher building costs compared to Asian rivals, and execution speed. The Shipping Ministry’s “Chintan Shivir” aims to complete 150 maritime projects by September 2025 to maintain momentum.

The horizon ahead

As cranes rise over coastal Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, India’s shipbuilding gamble embodies a broader economic ambition. With ₹2 trillion already committed to maritime projects and global supply chains diversifying from China, these clusters could anchor India’s ascent as a $30 trillion economy by 2047.

“Ports are pivotal to our Aatmanirbhar Bharat journey,” declared Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. “We aim not just to build ships, but to craft a new industrial ecosystem”. If successfully executed, these shipyards may well become the engines propelling India from a maritime participant to a global maritime powerhouse.

Muharram violence: Muslim mob lynch a Hindu man in Motihari; temple attacked in Katihar

OpIndia Staff
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Muharram violence: Muslim mob lynch a Hindu man in Motihari; temple attacked in Katihar

Inter-communal tensions flared up in Bihar‘s two districts during the Muharram procession on Sunday, 6th July, as Katihar and Motihari witnessed violence. In both regions, clashes during Muharram processions took a serious turn, resulting in stone pelting, property damage, and even loss of life. 

Hindu man killed in Motihari

A Muslim mob assaulted and killed Ajay Yadav while clashing with a group of Hindus during the Muharram procession in Mehsi block on the outskirts of Kothia Bazaar of Motihari on Sunday night. As per reports, tension already existed between the two groups within the locality. In the course of the procession, a quarrel broke out that soon developed into a brutal fight. 

Members of the Muslim community allegedly attacked with swords and sticks, news reports said. Ajay Yadav was hit in the neck with a sword and died on the spot. Two other Hindu individuals were seriously injured and are receiving treatment at SKMCH Hospital in Muzaffarpur.

A local named Vipin Baitha had already reported to the police that there could be violence. However, the administration failed to take preventive measures, which has sparked controversy over the negligence of the police.

Police arrived on the scene after the incident and arrested two suspects. SDPO is camping there, and police are trying to arrest other accused individuals. High tension continues in Kothia and surrounding villages.

Extra forces are deployed, and police are also keeping a check on internet usage in order to prevent the circulation of rumours. Flag marches are being held in order to keep peace intact.

Stone pelting during Muharram procession in Katihar

In another shocking incident, an aggressive episode took place in Katihar’s Naya Tola locality on the afternoon of Sunday, 6th July, during the Muharram procession. According to reports, some individuals in the procession began showering stones on the Mahavir Mandir of Ward Numbers 34 and 35 of the Nagar police station area.

This occurred at approximately 2 PM as the procession was walking past the temple. The first floor of the temple was hit by stones, and the assailants attempted to break the idols. Windows of nearby houses were broken, and two motorcycles and an ATM were also shattered.

When the news of the attack broke out, the locals came in huge numbers, and panic started emerging. Top officials like District Magistrate Manish Kumar Meena and SP Vaibhav Kumar Sharma immediately reached the spot along with a strong police force. 

The locality has now been made a police zone to avoid any further clashes. Former Deputy CM Tarkishore Prasad and MLC Ashok Agarwal also reached the spot. Police assert the matter is in hand, and further investigation continues.

Muharram violence in Bihar: Darbhanga ASI Stabbed during procession, clashes in multiple districts

Shriti Sagar
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Muharram violence in Bihar: Darbhanga ASI Stabbed during procession, clashes in multiple districts

Violence erupted late at night on Saturday, 5th July, in Bihar’s Darbhanga district during a Muharram procession when a youth reportedly stabbed a police officer. The incident occurred at around 11 PM in Khajasarai area under the Laheriasarai police station.

The police said that a group of young men were creating the disturbance on the road in the Muharram procession. When the police attempted to stop, an argument broke out. During the chaos, Sub-Inspector Amit Kumar slipped on the road. Seizing the opportunity, the accused, Mohammad Rabbani, took out a knife from his pocket and stabbed the officer on his left thigh.

Despite the injury, the officer, along with other police staff, was able to catch the attacker. Rabbani was brought to the police station, and Amit Kumar was admitted to DMCH (Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital).

Shortly after Rabbani’s detention, relatives of Rabbani barricaded the Laheriasarai-Baheri road in protest. They set the tyres on fire and held a demonstration for nearly an hour. No residents, however, joined the protest. 

Senior officers, such as SDO Vikas Kumar, SDPO Rajiv Kumar, Cyber DSP Rahul Kumar, and SHOs of Laheriasarai, Bahadurpur, Benta, Kotwali, and other units, rushed to the place along with QRT and SSB teams.

While police managed to clear the road, some protesters hurled stones at police officials. SHO Amit Kumar escaped injury by a whisker. Police have assured that action will be taken under the law against the people who obstructed the road and caused unrest.

This act is an addition to a series of violent incidents reported in Bihar this year during Muharram.

In another incident in the Muzaffarpur district, two groups belonging to different communities fought during a procession in Gaurihar under the Bariyarpur police station area. Two were injured. SSP Sushil Kumar said the altercation began after a heated argument between the two groups. 

At the same time, a bus mishap during a Muharram procession in Vaishali district sparked mob fury. A Mahadev bus hit two people near Chikanota despite the driver honking repeatedly. In anger, people in the procession forced passengers out and set the bus on fire. The situation was controlled after Durga Shakti, an SDPO of Mahua, and local police rushed to the spot.

China used its embassies to undermine Rafale sales post Operation Sindoor: French intel agencies

OpIndia Staff
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China used its embassies to undermine Rafale sales post Operation Sindoor: French intel agencies

In a startling revelation that underscores the intensity of global geopolitical rivalry. French intelligence agencies have uncovered a coordinated Chinese campaign, using its embassies and diplomatic channels, to undermine the global reputation and sales of Dassault Aviation’s Rafale fighter jets following India’s high profile Operation Sindoor in May 2025. The revelations come as France’s flagship fighter faces a barrage of disinformation, much of it traced to Chinese diplomatic efforts and amplified by Pakistani narratives.

China’s disinformation offensive

According to French intelligence reports, Chinese defence attachés stationed in embassies worldwide spearheaded a targeted effort to dissuade countries especially those in Asia and Africa from purchasing or expanding orders of the Rafale. Countries like Indonesia, which had already signed contracts for the French jet, were specifically lobbied to reconsider their procurement plans in favor of Chinese-made aircraft. This campaign includes:

•Dissemination of manipulated images, AI-generated videos, and even video-game footage purporting to show downed Rafale jets.
•Social media operations designed to amplify doubts about the Rafale’s combat performance during the India-Pakistan conflict.
•Direct diplomatic pressure on countries considering Rafale purchases, promoting Chinese alternatives as superior.

Operation Sindoor and the Pakistani narrative

French intelligence sources also noted that Pakistan played a key role in reinforcing false narratives about the Rafale’s performance during Operation Sindoor. In the days following the operation, multiple Pakistani media outlets and social media influencers began circulating unverified claims that the Indian Air Force had lost at least two Rafales during the cross-border strikes despite no visual evidence, official acknowledgment, or satellite confirmation.

However, these claims have been robustly dismissed by both Indian officials and Dassault Aviation, the Rafale’s manufacturer. No independent evidence has emerged to substantiate Pakistan’s assertions, and Indian defence sources have labelled the narrative as baseless propaganda.

Air Marshal AK Bharti, speaking after Operation Sindoor, declined to confirm any Rafale losses, while Dassault CEO Eric Trappier categorically called the claims “inaccurate,” reaffirming the fighter’s reliability and effectiveness. Defence analysts in India and France have similarly pointed to the absence of verifiable proof supporting Pakistan’s statements.

A coordinated China-Pakistan strategy?

French officials believe Pakistan’s rapid push to publicise unverified claims of Rafale losses may have been an extension of China’s broader strategy to erode confidence in the French jet and promote Chinese military exports. The timing and scale of the information campaign combining diplomatic, media, and online tactics suggest a coordinated effort to shift the regional arms balance and diminish France’s growing defence ties in Asia.

French responce

Paris has strongly rejected the disinformation, emphasising the Rafale’s proven combat record and strategic value. French authorities see the campaign as a direct challenge to France’s defence industry and its role as a security partner in the Indo-Pacific. China, for its part, has denied the allegations, calling them “groundless rumours and slander”.

The episode highlights the growing use of information warfare and diplomatic influence in the global arms market, as major powers vie for both commercial and strategic advantage.

Conclusion

As India and France deepen their military partnership in the Indo-Pacific, the fallout from Operation Sindoor continues to echo. With Beijing accused of turning diplomacy into a tool of disinformation and Islamabad amplifying those narratives, the battle over the Rafale has moved from the skies to the shadows where perception is power, and the truth must fly faster than the lies.

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind approaches multiple HCs to stop the release of Udaipur Files, movie based on murder of Kanhaiya Lal: Read how this outfit has a history of defending Islamic terrorists

OpIndia Staff
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Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind approaches multiple HCs to stop the release of Udaipur Files, movie based on murder of Kanhaiya Lal: Read how this outfit has a history of defending Islamic terrorists

On Saturday (5th July), the President of the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, Arshad Madani, stirred the hornet’s nest after he informed that the Islamic outfit had filed petitions in several High Courts to prevent the release of the movie ‘Udaipur Files Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder.’

The movie is based on the gruesome killing of Kanhaiya Lal, a tailor in Udaipur, on 28th June 2022 by Islamic terrorists Muhammad Riyaz Attari and Muhammad Ghaus. Lal had extended support to former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma in the aftermath of so-called ‘blasphemy’ allegations against her.

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, which has a history of protecting terrorists, objected to a movie based on the life of Kanhaiya Lal and his eventual murder by two Islamic terrorists. It has approached the High Courts of Delhi, Gujarat and Maharashtra to stop the release of ‘Udaipur Files Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder.’

Screengrab of the tweet by Arshad Madani

The development was confirmed by the President of the Islamic outfit, Arshad Madani. He also dog-whistled against the makers of the ‘Udaipur Files: Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder’, claiming that ‘the film’ carried ‘blasphemous’ remarks about Prophet Muhammad.

“The film’s trailer includes the controversial statement made by Nupur Sharma, which had not only set the entire country on fire but also caused adverse impact on the friendly relations of our country with other nations – damaging the image of our great nation at the global stage, and then forced the BJP to expel her from the party,” Madani brazened out.

He also made veiled threats about Muslims unleashing mayhem and creating a law and order crisis across the country if the film is released.

Arshad Madani remarked, “The trailer presents objectionable remarks against the Prophet of Islam ﷺ and his holy wives, which could disturb peace and public order in the country. The film portrays Deoband as a hub of extremism and uses extremely inflammatory language against its scholars (Ulama).“

He claimed that the film maligned the Muslim community and promoted hatred. The Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind President also whined about references made in the film about the Gyanvapi Mosque, an illegal structure built on the Vishweshwar temple.

“Such content is a violation of the fundamental rights granted under Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Indian Constitution,” Arshad Madani concluded.

Udaipur Files: What we know about it

The ‘Udaipur Files: Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder’ is set to hit the theatres on Friday (11th July). The movie features actor Vijay Raaz in the lead role.

Other actors including Rajneesh Duggal, Preeti Jhangiani, Kamlesh Sawant, Kanchi Singh, Mushtaq Khan are part of the film.

Bharat S Shrinate is the director and writer of the film, which is based on the murder of Udaipur tailor Kanhaiya Lal. The producer is Amit Jani, and the distributor is Reliance Entertainment.

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind and its history of defending Islamic terrorists

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has a history of providing ‘legal services’ to Islamic terrorists. The legal cell, set up by Arshad Madani in 2007, takes up the cases and enlists lawyers to defend the terror accused in the courts.

According to a New Indian Express report, the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has offered its services to around 700 accused. What is worrying about such interventions is that they have been able to get acquittals of at least 192 terror accused since 2007.

Most of the acquittals have not come because they were found innocent; instead, they were being released due to technicality or lack of evidence or because of the poor investigation by the police.

The 7/11 Mumbai train blasts, the 2006 Malegaon blasts and the Aurangabad Arms cases were some of the initial cases that were taken up by the JUH legal cell. Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind had also defended the accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks case, the 2011 Mumbai triple blasts case, Mulund blast case, Gateway of India blasts case.

On its website, the JUH has listed the terror-related cases it is fighting on behalf of the accused Muslims.

In 2013, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind had provided free legal aid to Indian Mujahedeen terrorist Mirza Himayat Baig, who was accused in the German Bakery bomb blast case. The Indian Mujahideen terrorist was sentenced to death by a Pune court on April 18, 2013, along with co-accused Yasin Bhatkal.

Some of the other cases in which Jamiat has come forward to provide legal aid to terror-accused:

  • Lashkar Connection Case (Abdul Rahman V/s State SLP)
  • ISIS conspiracy case Kochi (State of Kerala v/s Arshi Qureshi & others)
  • ISIS conspiracy case Mumbai (Arshi Qurashi & others v/s State of Maharashtra)
  • ISIS conspiracy case (State of Rajasthan v/s Sirajuddin)
  • 26/11 Mumbai attack case (Syed Zabiuddin v/s State of Maharashtra)
  • Chinnaswamy Stadium Bomb Blast Case (State V/s Qatil Siddiqui and others)
  • Jungli Maharaj Road Pune Bomb blast case (A.T.S. v/s Asad Khan & others)
  • Indian Mujahideen Case (Maharashtra VS Afzal Usmani & others)
  • Zaveri Bazar Serial Blast (State v/s Azaz Shaikh and others)
  • SIMI conspiracy case (Madhya Pradesh) State V/S Irfan Muchale & others)
  • Jama Masjid Blast Case (Delhi State V/s Qateel Siddqui Others)
  • Indian Mujahideen conspiracy case (State vs. Yasin Bhatkal & others) Ahmedabad Serial Blast Case 2008 (State V/s Jahid & Others)

In addition to supporting the terror-accused, the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind had recently stoked a controversy by extending all possible legal and financial aid to the killers of Hindu leader Kamlesh Tiwari, who was brutally assassinated in his office in Lucknow.

The Jamiat had said that it is willing to bear all the legal costs and had also offered the head of their legal cell to defend the five accused in the Kamlesh Tiwari murder.

In June 2021, the Deoband-based organisation had also deputed its lawyers to defend alleged Al-Qaeda terrorists in Uttar Pradesh. The organisation had declared that it would provide legal assistance to the two terror suspects.

In February 2022, it came to the rescue of 49 terrorists, who were convicted for planning and executing 21 bomb blasts in Ahmedabad that killed nearly 56 innocent people.

Well, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has every right to defend convicts and accused that it perceives were implicated on false charges.

However, when it jumps to the rescue of those charged with terrorism, including convicts who have a watertight case against them, it is essentially sending a message to all radical elements that no matter what, they will continue to support them regardless of their culpability.

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