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Delhi: Al Mateen Mosque in Brahmpuri being expanded illegally, Delhi Police or MCD not taking any action, Hindus forced to put up posters of ‘House for sale’: Exclusive Ground Report

श्रवण शुक्ल
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Delhi: Al Mateen Mosque in Brahmpuri being expanded illegally, Delhi Police or MCD not taking any action, Hindus forced to put up posters of ‘House for sale’: Exclusive Ground Report

In North-East Delhi, there is the area called Seelampur which has been in the news once again recently due to the murder of a Hindu youth there. In Seelampur is an area called Brahmpuri, where the Al-Mateen Mosque built in lane number 12 has been in controversy for a long time. Hindus are opposing the expansion of this mosque. The local Hindu community says that the mosque was built fraudulently and now the attempt to expand it further is part of a well-planned conspiracy. There is a plan to open a new gate of the mosque in lane number 12, which is right in front of the Shiva temple built in 1984.

This issue has increased tension between Hindu-Muslim communities in the area. OpIndia had covered in its ground reports how fear is being spread among the local Hindu people in the name of Al-Mateen Mosque. OpIndia had also revealed in its report how black money and foreign funding is being used in the expansion of this mosque.

Meanwhile, an attempt was made to restart the work of expansion of this mosque. Local people protested when the construction work of the mosque started again. They said that when they asked the police administration to stop the construction of the mosque, Additional DCP Sandeep Lamba told them that the people associated with the mosque have spent Rs 2 crore, so the construction work will continue. The police clearly said that the construction work will not be stopped.

Allegations of collusion between MCD, Delhi Police and administration

The controversy around the expansion of the mosque is going on since 2023. When the work started earlier, people complained to the police and the construction stopped. Then the mosque committee took permission from MCD on 23rd November 2024. Work started again in February 2025, but on 13th February 2025, the North-East District Police received another complaint. Investigation revealed that the map of the mosque was passed in an incorrect manner. MCD stopped the work and sent a notice to the mosque committee.

However, in OpIndia’s follow-up report dated 25th April 2025, the situation looked more serious. Locals were angry because the construction of the mosque was going on despite the ban. A board was put up which read, “No mosque will be built on any land taken privately by the committee. But there should be no conflict between Hindus and Muslims!” However, despite this, people were found working on the construction site. When Hindus protested, the police arrested two people from the Hindu side and took them to the police station, although they were released the next day.

In protest against this attitude of the police and administration, Hindus in lane number-13 of the area put up posters outside their houses, which read, “An illegal mosque is being constructed at house number L-11, lane number 12, Brahmpuri, with the collusion of senior police officers. Upon calling helpline number 112, the police are instead arresting us. Now we are sitting in front of our houses and protesting. The police may shoot us or arrest us by filing false cases. The police and the MCD are forcing us to sell our houses.”

Hindus say that the administration is in cahoots with the mosque committee. A local resident Gautam says, “MCD first passed the wrong map, now it is trying to suppress the matter by putting up a board. All this is happening due to pressure from above.”

The administration is catering to the Muslims side

The mosque committee and local Muslims had earlier also expressed confidence that they would complete their work (construction of the mosque). In OpIndia’s report of March 7, 2025, it was reported that the mosque’s deputy imam Saddam Hussain had said, “After the dispute cools down, the administration itself will help in building the mosque.” This was also confirmed in conversations with local people. When OpIndia again reached Brahmpuri on April 25, 2025, the anger of the Hindus was clearly visible because the administration was actually helping in the construction.

By the way, the Naib Imam of the mosque Saddam Hussain had also said, “We are confident that the construction work will definitely be completed after the matter cools down. Right now there is pressure from the police and MCD, but this will not last long.” Some Muslims say that they are waiting for the opportunity. A shopkeeper said, “Right now everyone is quiet, but as soon as we get the opportunity, the work will start. We want our mosque.” The fear of Hindus is proving to be true, because the work of the mosque is being carried out secretly.

Root of the dispute around Al-Mateen mosque

The story of Al-Mateen Mosque of Brahmpuri begins in 2013. Local resident Pandit Shankar Lal Gautam says, “In 2013, some Muslim people bought a flat in Gali No. 13. Initially, Namaaz started being offered there, which no one objected to. But gradually that flat was converted into a mosque.” According to Gautam, it was a common house, but later it was turned into a four-storey mosque. He believes that all this was done thoughtfully so that the hold of Muslims in the area is strengthened. Initially no one suspected anything, but after the 2020 Delhi riots, people got wary of the place.

Bullets were fired on Hindus from Al-Mateen Mosque during Anti-Hindu riots of 2020

The riots that took place in North-East Delhi in February 2020 are still a nightmare for the people of Brahmpuri. Violence in areas like Seelampur, Jafrabad and Brahmpuri took the lives of 53 people and hundreds were injured. During this time, the name of Al-Mateen Mosque came to the fore. Gautam says, “On February 25, bullets were fired from the mosque. Suddenly thousands of people gathered there. A lie was spread that the mosque was set on fire. After this, firing took place in Gali No. 13, in which three Hindu boys were injured.” After this incident, fear gripped the Hindus. Many families left the area and sold their houses.

Hindus consider the expansion of the mosque a conspiracy

After 2020 riots, efforts to expand the mosque started. In 2023, the mosque committee bought a plot next to existing structure in lane number-12, which earlier belonged to a Hindu family. Gautam says, “First they bought that house, then demolished it and started building a part of the mosque there. All this was done very thoughtfully.” The plan was to open the new gate of the mosque in lane number-12, which is right next to the Shiva temple in front. Worship is done in this temple since 1984, devotees gather every Monday, and Holika Dahan takes place on Holi. Hindus fear that opening the gate of the mosque in front of the temple will lead to a fight every day and an incident like 2020 riots can be repeated.

Meanwhile, the Naib Imam of the mosque, Saddam Hussain, says, “Our population is increasing. The mosque has become too small. What is wrong in this? We want to live in peace.” However, Hindus think this is a conspiracy. Sonu (name changed), who lives in Gali No. 12, says, “If the mosque becomes twice as big, then imagine how many people will gather here. This is a warning bell for us.”

Posters of ‘House for sale’ and fear of demographic change

In protest against the expansion of the mosque, 25-30 of the 60 Hindu families in lane number 12 put up posters of ‘houses for sale’ outside their homes. Local resident Dinesh Sharma (name changed) says, “The atmosphere here changed after 2020. We lost our people in the riots, houses were burnt, and the fear was such that many people left from here. Now seeing the expansion of the mosque, it seems that the same thing will happen again.” Hindus say that this is a conspiracy to change the demography of the area. They say that first the mosque is built, then the atmosphere changes, and Hindus are forced to migrate.

The Muslim side says that people are selling their houses on their own will. Saddam Hussain says, “We are paying good money, so people are selling. There is no compulsion.” But Hindus believe that this is happening due to fear. An elderly resident says, “Earlier Hindus and Muslims used to live together here. Everything changed after the riots. Now seeing the expansion of the mosque, it seems that there is a preparation to drive us away from here.”

The committee is spreading lies about the community center, local people are telling the truth

However, the mosque committee is now claiming that a community center was being built in Gali No. 12, not a mosque. Saddam Hussain says, “We wanted to build a place for children’s education and health. This is not a conspiracy.” But Hindus are dismissing this claim. Gautam says, “This is all an excuse. Earlier there was talk of building a mosque, now when there was opposition, the story was changed.”

Some local Muslims also believe that in fact a mosque was being built. One person said, “The talk of community center is just to silence people.” This dispute of Brahmpuri is not limited to the construction of the mosque. It is a story of the wounds of the 2020 riots, fear of demographic change, clash of religious festivals and distrust in the administration.

Other ground reports related to Al Mateen Mosque

  • Al Mateen Mosque in Brahmpuri- Where is the money coming from for the expansion, person who donated land worth ₹40 lakhs runs a slipper shop
  • Attempts to build a new gate in front of Shiv Temple underway for fraudulently built Al Mateen Mosque of Brahmapuri: Suppression by putting MCD posters and more
  • Why are Hindus in Delhi’s Seelampur (Brahmpuri) putting up ‘house for sale’ posters? The Al-Mateen Masjid, 2020 riots, firing and more: Exclusive ground report

India asks Pakistani visa holders to return by April 29: How India has been medically helping Pakistani citizens for years and still getting backstabbed

Anurag
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India asks Pakistani visa holders to return by April 29: How India has been medically helping Pakistani citizens for years and still getting backstabbed

On 22nd April, Islamic terrorists unleashed horror in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. They targeted Hindu tourists in a brutal ambush, leaving 26 dead and over a dozen injured. Lashkar-e-Taiba’s offshoot, The Resistance Front (TRF), took responsibility for the attack. The Pakistan-sponsored attack showed the ceaseless hostility of the neighbouring nation. In its aftermath, India started taking strict actions on all possible fronts.

The Government of India has ordered all Pakistani nationals to leave India by 27th April, except Pakistani Hindus who have already been granted Long Term Visas (LTVs). Also, Pakistani nationals who are in India for medical treatment have time till 29th April to leave. India has extended compassion even to its enemy nations like Pakistan for years. However, the message is now clear: betrayal will not be rewarded with kindness.

India’s decisive response – pack up and leave

India has had enough of the backstabbing by the hostile neighbour. In a move that signals zero tolerance, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has instructed all Pakistani nationals holding medical visas to pack their bags and leave by 29th April. According to the fresh directive issued by the ministry, no extensions will be entertained. Also, existing permissions have been revoked with immediate effect. This includes patients undergoing treatment for life-threatening conditions, which reflects just how severely Pakistan’s duplicity has tested the patience of India.

The instructions, issued through formal communications and annexures, leave no room for doubt: hospitality extended out of humanity cannot be a free pass for those whose nation exports terror.

A history of undeserved compassion

For decades, India has opened its doors to Pakistani citizens who needed urgent medical care. India often fast-tracked visas for treatments that could not be delayed. From transplants to cancer treatments and open-heart surgeries, thousands were granted entry purely on humanitarian grounds.

In fact, India often relaxed visa norms, eased documentation hurdles and many times looked the other way even during heightened tensions, which is very common in the case of Pakistan. While hospitals in India healed their bodies, many times for free, Pakistan’s terror factories continued bleeding India. Compassion was offered without expectation, but there is a limit to betrayal.

India had already laid down clear procedures for Pakistani nationals

Long before the latest fallout, India had established a clear, cautious framework that governed visas to Pakistani citizens, especially medical visas. According to documentation issued by the Government of India, all Pakistani nationals seeking visas, particularly for medical treatment, were required to apply through proper diplomatic channels. The visa was granted for a maximum period of three months to those who had obtained a prior appointment for treatment. If recommended by state governments or the FRRO, the visa could be extended based on appropriate medical documents. One attendant was permitted.

A security clearance from Indian agencies was mandatory, irrespective of urgency. However, in most cases, India often sped up the process on humanitarian grounds. Applicants were required to provide detailed personal information, proof of medical necessity, and undergo background verification before any visa could be issued.

Notably, only selected designated hospitals are allowed to offer medical treatment to Pakistani patients to ensure treatments are conducted at institutions recognised and monitored by the Government of India. Patients’ family members who want to visit as attendants too needed separate security clearance.

Despite these safeguards in place, India often showcased extraordinary flexibility on humanitarian grounds. Special considerations were often given to urgent cases, including those where extensions of visas and permissions for second opinions or follow-up surgeries were required.

The recent order asking Pakistani nationals holding medical visas to leave is thus not a knee-jerk reaction. It stemmed from a system that was built carefully but has been consistently undermined by the support of terror activities by the Pakistani government and Army.

Notable cases that made headlines

Though thousands of Pakistanis get life-saving treatment in India, there have been several cases that made headlines.

Heart transplant for Pakistani teenager Ayesha Rashan

In April 2024, 19-year-old Ayesha Rashan from Pakistan underwent a life-saving heart transplant surgery at MGM Healthcare in Chennai. The surgery, which would have cost ₹35 lakh, was performed free of cost. Financial assistance was provided by the Aishwaryam Trust.

Corrective spinal surgery for Pakistani girl Afsheen Gul

In 2022, 13-year-old Afsheen Gul from Sindh, Pakistan, was brought to India for corrective spinal surgery at Apollo Hospital in Delhi. She was suffering from a severe neck deformity due to a fall in infancy. Dr Rajagopalan Krishnan performed the complex surgery free of cost. After surgery, Afsheen could walk, talk and eat independently for the first time in her life.

Then-MEA late Sushma Swaraj intervention for medical visa

In 2017, then-External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had granted visa on urgent basis to a 3-year-old Pakistani girl for open heart surgery and to a Pakistani man for liver transplant.

High-risk heart surgery for Pakistani man Zafar Ahmed Lali

In 2015, 57-year-old Zafar Ahmed Lali was brought to India for a high-risk heart surgery at the Asian Heart Institute in Mumbai. Despite the complexity due to multiple blockages and a defective valve, the doctors in India successfully performed the surgery and gave him a new lease of life.

Heart surgery of Pakistani child Noor Fatima

In 2003, Pakistani child Noor Fatima underwent heart surgery free of cost in India, giving her a new lease of life. Such free treatments were a gesture of goodwill and intended to strengthen Indo-Pak relations.

Pakistan’s endless cycle of backstabbing

India has extended a hand of friendship several times to Pakistan only to be met with a dagger. Even as Indian hospitals saved countless Pakistani lives, their army and terror outfits sent death across the borders. From the Kargil war just after the Lahore talks to countless terror strikes including the Mumbai attack of 26/11 and now the Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistani terrorists have hit India during peace overtures.

The message from Pakistan has remained unchanged over decades—it wants animosity over amity. No amount of goodwill, visas, or life-saving surgeries could ever awaken a conscience buried under decades of hate.

Why enough is enough

For every nation, a time comes when it must choose self-respect over sentimentality. India’s decision to send back Pakistani nationals holding medical visas cannot be deemed an act of cruelty. It is an act of survival. Time and again, misplaced kindness has been repaid with backstabbing and deaths of innocents. India has finally decided to tighten the doors. India will no longer compromise national security to maintain a façade of goodwill.

The Pakistani public must understand that compassion cannot be infinite when one side thrives on violence. Finally, enough is enough.

Conclusion

The goodwill of India was never owed. It was given to a hostile terror nation for free, especially when its leaders waged war in every form imaginable. Trust has been shattered, and the possibility of rebuilding it grows dimmer every minute.

The return directive given by the Government of India is not just an administrative move; it is a symbolic one, showing Pakistan that the time has come when India’s open-heartedness cannot be mistaken for weakness. Until Pakistan dismantles the terror networks that thrive under its watch, there will be no favours, no healing hands, and no open doors from the very nation it seeks to bleed with a thousand cuts.

Visa suspension after Pahalgam terror attack: Read how measures to hold Pakistan accountable are turned into sob stories of Pakistani nationals

Aditi
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Visa suspension after Pahalgam terror attack: Read how measures to hold Pakistan accountable are turned into sob stories of Pakistani nationals

As the Indian government suspended visas of Pakistani nationals in retaliation for the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian media have taken it upon themselves to bring out the sob stories of Pakistani nationals who will have to go back to their country before the deadline.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, on Friday (25th April), announced the suspension of visa services to Pakistani nationals with immediate effect. The Ministry said that no new visas will be issued to Pakistani nationals across 14 categories, namely- SAARC Visa, visa on arrival, business visa, film visa, journalist visa, transit visa, medical visa, conference visa, mountaineering visa, student visa, visitor visa, group tourist visa, pilgrim visa and group pilgrim issued to Pakistan minorities. Pakistani nationals holding SAARC and medical visas were directed to leave India by 22nd April and 26th April, respectively, while those holding Visas of all other categories are required to go back by 29th April. Those who will be found overstaying their visa limits will face action under the Immigration and Foreign Nationals Act, 2025.

Soon after the government issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Pakistani nationals to leave the country, hundreds of Pakistani nationals left India through the Attari-Wagah border. However, many Indian women married to Pakistani nationals were left stranded at the border after the BSF officials barred them. In no time, the Indian news space was flooded with stories of the struggle of these stranded Indian Muslim women wanting to go back to their husbands’ houses and Pakistani nationals who came to India seeking medical care or to visit their relatives, but now have to return abruptly.

Indian Muslim women married to Pakistani nationals

Visa suspension has highlighted several cases of Indian Muslim women married to Pakistani nationals for decades, and yet retaining their Indian citizenship to avail the benefits of various welfare schemes in India.

The New Indian Express reported how Indian citizens Sadvi Ali and Majida Khan, both married to Pakistan nationals, have been struggling to go back to their husbands’ houses. Sadvi Ali, from Delhi, was married to a resident of Karachi. She was leaving for Pakistan with her son, but was stopped. “My five-year-old son is a Pakistani national; thus, he has to go back as the Indian government said that all Pakistanis have to leave the country in 48 hours. But he cannot travel alone,” Sadvi Ali was quoted as saying.

Similarly, Majida Khan, who married a Pakistani national 10 years ago, came to India with her two children. Despite being married for a decade, Majida Khan holds an Indian passport, and her two children, though born in India, hold Pakistani passports. “I came here in February to visit my family, and now, due to this development, we have to leave within 48 hours.” Regarding the Pahalgam attack, she said that those who killed innocents should be punished, but ordinary people should not be harassed.

The Tribune also reported the plight of Irshad and Sabina, who hold Indian passports despite being married to Pakistani nationals for years. Irshad from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, is reportedly married to a Pakistani national living in Karachi for two decades. Her two daughters, holding Pakistani passports, were allowed to go to Pakistan, but she was not allowed.

Irshad from Bulandshahr (UP), married to a Karachi resident for two decades. Though her daughters, holding Pakistani nationality, were permitted to cross, she was denied passage despite claiming to have applied for Pakistani citizenship, a process still incomplete. Similarly, Sabina, from Rajasthan, who married in Pakistan in 2018, was also stranded with her minor son, who is a Pakistani national. Another Indian Muslim woman, Wazida, who has two Pakistani children and was not allowed to cross the border, claimed that her citizenship application in Pakistan has been pending for 10 years since her marriage.

Pakistan nationals on a medical visa

Large numbers of Pakistani nationals visit India seeking medical facilities at affordable prices, which they fail to get in their own country. However, after the revocation of visas, they will have to return to their country. Several media outlets reported the sob stories of such Pakistani nationals.

Hindustan Times reported how Fida Hussain, a Pakistani national who came to India on 22nd April for a liver transplant in Delhi, is disappointed over the suspension of her visa. “I got my visa after a lot of struggles. The sudden turn of events has spoiled all my plans. I had spent a lot of money to come here for treatment. All of it has been wasted,” Hussain was quoted as saying.

Washin Jahangir, who claimed that she has ‘half-nationality’ of Pakistan, was also equally disappointed by the development. Jahangir and her sister’s in-laws live in Karachi. Both the sisters, along with Jahangir’s two nieces, came to India a month ago for asthma treatment. Jahangir’s two nieces were able to return to Pakistan as they were Pakistani nationals, but she and her sister got stranded. “My husbands and two sons are waiting for me across the border. I have been granted half-nationality by Pakistan. I have all the documents, still, I have been stopped,” Jahangir was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times

The story of another Pakistani man who came for medical treatment of his two children to India is also making headlines. His two children, aged 9 and 7, are reportedly suffering from a congenital heart condition. He reportedly appealed to the government of India to allow him to stay for the medical treatment of his children, citing that he spent ₹10 million on this.

Pakistani nationals who came to visit relatives

The Tribune presented the emotional tales of Pakistani nationals who came to visit India to meet their relatives, but their visit was cut short abruptly due to visa suspension. The media outlet reported how Asgar Ali, who termed the Indian government’s response to Pahalgam terror attack as ‘politics of hatred’, ” struggled to explain to the children why he couldn’t keep his promises — to show them their parents’ ancestral village and the historic sites they had dreamed of visiting during their 45-day stay”. Ali was hosting eight Pakistani guests.

Mohammad Hanif, a Pakistani wrestler, also faced a similar predicament as he had to leave without meeting friends and relatives in Punjab, including fellow wrestlers at local akharas.

‘Trying to grope victim’s breast does not amount to attempted rape’: Calcutta HC

OpIndia Staff
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‘Trying to grope victim’s breast does not amount to attempted rape’: Calcutta HC

In its recent ruling, the Calcutta High Court stated that a man’s drunken attempt to grope a minor girl does not amount to attempted rape under the POCSO Act, but rather qualifies as aggravated sexual assault, given the absence of any penetrative act.

A Division Bench comprising Justices Arijit Banerjee and Biswaroop Chowdhury made the observation while hearing an appeal. They noted that the victim’s testimony, along with her medical examination, showed no signs of penetration, nor any attempt to penetrate. Instead, the minor stated that the man, clearly under the influence of alcohol, had tried to grope her breasts — a serious act no doubt, but legally distinct from attempted rape.

“Such evidence may support a charge of aggravated sexual assault under Section 10 of the POCSO Act, but does not prima facie indicate an offence of attempted rape,” the Court remarked.

The petitioner had been convicted by a trial court under multiple sections, including Sections 448, 376(2)(c), and 511 of the IPC, and Section 10 of the POCSO Act. He was sentenced to 12 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of ₹50,000. Challenging this, he approached the High Court, arguing that the evidence simply didn’t back an attempted rape charge — and even if all witness testimonies were taken at face value, the conviction could not stand.

His counsel also pointed out that the petitioner had already spent over two years behind bars, and there was little hope of the appeal being heard anytime soon. Without proof of penetration, they argued, Section 376 IPC (rape) wouldn’t apply, and at most, the case would fall under aggravated sexual assault, which carries a lighter sentence of 5–7 years.

The Court agreed. It noted that given the nature of the evidence, the petitioner’s actions amounted to aggravated sexual assault, not attempted rape. Considering he had already served a substantial portion of the maximum sentence for that lesser offence, the Court granted him bail.

Agra Police busts fake claims of Muslim man killed in revenge attack against Pahalgam massacre, says manhunt launched to search the accused

OpIndia Staff
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Agra Police busts fake claims of Muslim man killed in revenge attack against Pahalgam massacre, says manhunt launched to search the accused

The Agra Police have debunked claims circulating online that a Muslim man was killed in a revenge attack against the Pahalgam terror attack.

“Regarding the viral video on social media, it is clarified that no organization named “Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal” is active in Agra. In this matter, the Tajganj police station has already registered an FIR. At the time of the incident, the deceased was accompanied by three companions, but none of them or the family members informed the police team of any such details. Therefore, people are advised not to share or spread any unverified news on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media platforms that may influence the investigation,” the statement released by Agra Police said.

“The police teams are currently investigating. The body of the deceased has been sent for post-mortem, and a panel has been formed for this purpose. Several police teams have been deployed to search for the accused. The accused will be arrested soon, and necessary legal action will be taken,” the police added.

The police clarification came in the wake of a viral video of self-described gaurakshaks claiming responsibility for killing a Muslim man as an act of revenge against the Pahalgam terror attack.

A 27-year-old man named Gulfam was shot dead late Wednesday night outside a restaurant on Shilpgram Road in Agra’s Tajganj area. Another youth, Saif Ali, was injured in the attack. Moments after the incident, a self-proclaimed gau rakshak from Agra, Manoj Chaudhary, posted a video on Instagram claiming responsibility, calling it “revenge” for the Pahalgam terror attack.

Gulfam, who worked at the restaurant owned by his relative, was standing outside with friends around midnight when three men on a scooter arrived, asked names, and opened fire. The assailants then fled the scene. CCTV footage is being reviewed as police begin a manhunt.

Busting their claim, the police issued a statement and said “Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal” is not active in Agra, adding that those who accompanied the victim did not mention anything to the effect that Chaudhary claimed in the video.

Pune court summons Rahul Gandhi in defamation case over his remarks on Veer Savarkar

ANI
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Pune court summons Rahul Gandhi in defamation case over his remarks on Veer Savarkar

A Pune court has summoned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case relating to his remarks on freedom fighter VD Savarkar. The court has requested that Rahul Gandhi be present on May 9.

The case was filed by a relative of VD Savarkar against Rahul Gandhi after he made a statement about the freedom fighter in London some time back.

Gandhi had said, “They (Savarkar and his friends) beat up a Muslim and felt happy. If five people beat up one person and someone is getting happy, then this is cowardice. Fifteen people with Savarkarji are beating one person. This is also in their ideology.”

In another case against Rahul Gandhi over the same issue, the Supreme Court on Friday warned the Congress MP not to make controversial remarks against freedom fighters in the future; otherwise, he will have to “face consequences.”

‘Does Rahul Gandhi know his grandmother Indira Gandhi had written a letter praising Savarkar,’ SC as it slams him for remarks.

Does Rahul Gandhi know that his grandmother and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had written a letter praising Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, the apex court had said, while warning the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

A bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Manmohan expressed disapproval of the remarks of Gandhi against Savarkar.

Justice Datta also asked senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Gandhi, if Mahatma Gandhi could be called the servant of the Britishers merely because he used the term “your faithful servant” in his letters to the Viceroy.

“Does your client know Mahatma Gandhi also used your faithful servant while addressing the Viceroy? Does your client know that his grandmother, when she was the Prime Minister, also sent a letter to somebody praising the gentleman (Savarkar),” Justice Datta told Singhvi.

You cannot make such statements without knowing the history and geography of freedom fighters, the bench further said.

Let him not make irresponsible statements about the freedom fighters. Is this the way you treat freedom fighters?” Justice Datta asked and said that Savarkar is worshipped in Maharashtra.

Justice Datta further said, “Let’s be clear, any further statement and we will take suo moto and no question of sanction. We will not allow you to speak about the freedom fighters. They have given us freedom.”

The bench then stayed the criminal defamation proceedings pending against Gandhi in a Lucknow court over his comments against Savarkar.

The bench, however, said that it was inclined to stay the proceedings, but on the condition that he would not make any such statements in future.

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

Pahalgam terror attack: Trousers of 20 victims were found unzipped or pulled down by terrorists to confirm they were Hindus before killing them

OpIndia Staff
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Pahalgam terror attack: Trousers of 20 victims were found unzipped or pulled down by terrorists to confirm they were Hindus before killing them

Disturbing details have emerged in the preliminary investigation in the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 Hindu tourists were shot dead in a cold-blooded manner by Jihadi terrorists. A joint investigation team of Army officers, J&K Police, and members of the J&K administration that conducted the first examination of the bodies of the victims reportedly found that the trousers of around 20 victims were unzipped or pulled down. The revelation confirms that the terrorists first confirmed the religion of the victims by checking if they are circumcised or not before killing them.

The finding also corroborates the eyewitnesses’ testimonies, where they said that terrorists asked the victims their names and religion. The terrorists asked them to recite the Kalma (a declaration of faith central to Islam) to make sure that only Hindus were targeted. Terrorists also checked the IDs of the victims and pulled down their trousers to check if they were circumcised. Islam mandates circumcision as a covenant with God or a sign of purification. After the attack, the bodies of the victims were taken to the Anantnag District Hospital, where the staff received them as they were after being shot.

As per reports, the joint investigation team is interrogating around 70 overground workers and terror sympathisers suspected of colluding with the terrorists. “Initially, the probe team rounded up 1500 overground workers to examine their possible role. These have been narrowed down to 70 overground workers strongly suspected to have helped the Pahalgam attack team with logistics. We hope to narrow the search further and get to the real culprits soon,” a J&K administration official was quoted as saying.

Eyewitnesses recalled the horror

Debasish Bhattacharyya, an Associate Professor at Assam University, who was among the fortunate few who survived the terrorist attack, revealed that he was spared by the terrorists because he was able to recite the Kalima. Asavari Jagdale, the daughter of a 54-year-old businessman from Pune, who was also murdered by the assailants, described how they confronted her father, Santosh Jagdale and demanded that he recite an Islamic verse. They shot him in the head, behind the ear and then in the back after he was unable to comply. 41-year-old Bharat Bhushan, a tech professional from Bengaluru, was also brutally gunned down in front of his wife and three-year-old son by the terrorists after confirming his Hindu identity.

Two foreigners and two locals were among the 26 people killed in the attack. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist organisation claimed responsibility for the terror attack.

Uttarakhand: Illegal mazar in Doon Hospital in Dehradun demolished after complaint on CM Portal

ANI
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Uttarakhand: Illegal mazar in Doon Hospital in Dehradun demolished after complaint on CM Portal

A mazar constructed illegally on government land at Doon Hospital in Dehradun was demolished following a complaint lodged on the CM portal.

The administration investigated the complaint lodged on the CM portal regarding an illegal mazar. Following the investigation, the structure was demolished using a bulldozer late at night.

The complaint was filed by Pankaj Gupta, a resident of Rishikesh, who raised concerns about the illegal construction at Doon Hospital through the CM Helpline portal. In response, the Dehradun District Magistrate (DM) ordered an inquiry into the matter. The investigation involved examining land records and documents from multiple departments, including the Revenue Department, Municipal Corporation, Public Works Department (PWD), and Doon Hospital Administration, to confirm whether the structure was indeed built on government land, whether it had the necessary permissions, and its overall legal status.

The investigation focused on determining whether the mazar was built on government land, whether it was constructed with permission, and its legal status. A report was sought from the hospital administration, and a notice was issued to the Khadim (caretaker) of the mazar.

The issue had sparked debate among Dehradun residents, with some referring to it as a “Fakir” or other types of religious structure. It was also alleged that some individuals were using the structure for business purposes.

The hospital administration had earlier written to the government, requesting the removal of the mazar due to its interference. In response, the administration took action by sealing the hospital road late at night and deploying a police force to assist with the demolition.

A combined team from the Municipal Corporation, Public Works Department, Doon Hospital Administration, and District Administration carried out the demolition using a bulldozer. The demolition was carried out in compliance with legal guidelines, and the authorities have ensured that the area is cleared of the illegal structure.

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

Crackdown on illegal immigrants in Gujarat: Over 550 Bangladeshis living in India with forged documents detained

ANI
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Crackdown on illegal immigrants in Gujarat: Over 550 Bangladeshis living in India with forged documents detained

 In a massive statewide crackdown, over 550 illegal immigrants from Bangladesh were detained in Ahmedabad and Surat for residing in India with forged documents, Gujarat police said on Saturday.

Deportation proceedings will follow once verification and interrogation are complete, said the official.

The coordinated operations were led by multiple law enforcement units, including the Special Operations Group (SOG), Crime Branch, Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU), Prevention of Crime Branch (PCB), and local police teams. Officials confirmed that all detained individuals were in India without valid documentation and had used fake papers to establish residence.

In Surat, an overnight combing operation carried out jointly by SOG, DCB, AHTU, PCB, and local police resulted in the detention of more than 100 Bangladeshi nationals. “They had entered India illegally and were living in Surat with forged documents. After the investigation, they will be deported to Bangladesh,” said Rajdeep Singh Nakum, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Special Operations Group.

A simultaneous operation was carried out in Ahmedabad around 3 am on Saturday. Teams from the Crime Branch, SOG, Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Zone 6, and Headquarters detained over 450 individuals suspected to be illegal immigrants. DCP Crime Branch Ajit Rajian confirmed that more than 400 people were taken into custody during the early morning sweep.

Joint Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, Ahmedabad, Sharad Singhal, stated that these actions were taken in compliance with orders from the Home Minister, the Commissioner of Police, and the Director General of Police.

“HM, CP and DGP had directed us that illegal immigrants must be held. The Crime Branch registered two FIRS from April 2024 till now. 127 illegal Bangladeshis were caught and 77 were deported,” he said.

Singhal noted that the latest raid in Ahmedabad was based on intelligence reports indicating a significant number of undocumented immigrants in the Chandola area.

“We had inputs that a huge number of Bangladeshis are residing in the Chandola area… Early this morning, the police carried out a combing operation. We have detained 457 people so far… Deportation will be processed after interrogation…,” he added.

‘Throw Hindu idols in the drain, wear cross’: Christian missionary in Kota lures 50 members of Bhil community with money, foreign travel

OpIndia Staff
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‘Throw Hindu idols in the drain, wear cross’: Christian missionary in Kota lures 50 members of Bhil community with money, foreign travel

A Christian missionary was reportedly involved in the religious conversion of 50 women, children and men in Motipura village of Kota district, Rajasthan. Allegations have also surfaced regarding his remarks about discarding images of Hindu deities in a drain. The police have initiated legal proceedings against the missionary John Matthew, for offending religious sentiments, making threats and enticing conversions through incentives.

He is accused of luring impoverished members of the Bhil community with promises of trips abroad, house construction and financial assistance. Two members of the Bhil community reported the incident to the police. On the night of 21st April, members of the Bajrang Dal interceded a Christian prayer meeting.

According to Yogesh Renwal, the state coordinator of the organisation, “We received information that Christian missionary Joy Matthew was converting Hindus with some foreign nationals. When we arrived, we found the missionary with his wife and three children. He had gathered 50 individuals from the Bhil community and was making objectionable comments about Hindu deities. This group included men, women and children from the Bhil community.”

Members of the Bhil community stated that a Christian missionary named Joy Matthew lives in their village. He owns a large plot there where he has built a rest house. The missionary promises to provide people with rations and money. He has even constructed houses for several individuals. Joy Matthew asks people to throw pictures of Hindu gods and goddesses into the drain.

Yogesh Renwal additionally stated that Joy Matthew was facilitating Christian prayers and upon converting individuals, was instructing them to wear crosses. This activity was met with opposition from the Hindu activists who called for an immediate cessation of the prayer gathering, resulting in a chaos.

Police informed that among the foreign nationals were Joy Matthew’s daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren, who had come to Kota from the United States on a tourist visa. The police have taken Matthew and his son-in-law into custody. A case has been registered against the son-in-law, Collin, under the Foreigners Act and an investigation is underway. Meanwhile, a police force has been deployed in the village to maintain peace and order.

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