Home Blog Page 398

Communal carnage in Murshidabad: Victim-blaming reaches new heights as incumbent TMC, leftist Indian media blame Hindus and shield Islamists

Rukma Rathore
-
0
Communal carnage in Murshidabad: Victim-blaming reaches new heights as incumbent TMC, leftist Indian media blame Hindus and shield Islamists

As communal violence ravaged Murshidabad, the All India Trinamool Congress leaders, including Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (AITC or TMC) prioritized downplaying the situation, indulging in blame game, even accusing Hindus from other states and belittling the sufferings of the victims. Likewise, the Islamists and their liberal mouthpieces, including The Wire and Newslaundry, attempted to sanitize the anti-Hindu riots, framing them as a response to the apprehensions surrounding the Waqf Amendment Act.

They blamed the mainstream media for inflating an otherwise “normal situation” and questioned the legitimacy of the Hindu minority’s plight in Murshidabad. Arfa Khanum Sherwani of “The Wire” acknowledged that her religious brethren were responsible for the burning of Murshidabad, and even the authorities were not spared, but added that the videos coming from the region are not necessarily authentic or current.

She stated that they are only being circulated “to exaggerate the incidents,” as if the turmoil, testimonies of the victims and the reports coming from the area are not sufficient to disturb the conscience of any ordinary individual. As expected, she also reiterated the dubious narrative that the amendment of the Waqf law was an attempt to discriminate against Muslims.

She claimed, “Opposition leaders, Muslim organisations and those who believe in democracy, liberalism and equality have been worried that attempts are being made to provoke Muslims through the law and now Muslims have reacted. This is a conspiracy that needs to be understood.” What she essentially means is that if the second-largest majority in the country disapproves of a law, they might respond with a tantrum, which would be characterised as a provocation and seen as a conspiracy against them.

The reality, however, is that the only conspiracy in this situation had been against the Hindu community, as they were blamed for the passage of the act. She, ironically, insisted that the opposition and Muslim leaders are troubled by the unrest, while the fact is that these same individuals have been instrumental in inciting their voters to protest against the law through their deceitful rhetoric and propaganda.

Arfa soon switched to disparage the saffron party and accused, “This seems to be a deliberate plan, very similar to what the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may have intended as a byproduct of the law. The situation has unfolded exactly as they might have wanted. This law has become a tool in the BJP’s hands, just ahead of the 2026 elections in West Bengal, which are just a year away.” Her remark seemed to imply as if the BJP had asked the Islamists to riot, or was it an admission that these radicals tend to resort to unrest under the guise of protest whenever they are in disagreement, and hence the party should have taken this into account.

Additionally, the legislation applies not just to West Bengal but to the entire nation, rendering the argument regarding elections both unreasonable and unfounded. It is also crucial to note that in India, elections occur at different times in various states each year. Should this mean that the centre has to consider the schedule of the polls to avoid making decisions for fear of criticism or backlash? Is this how governments run and nations are managed?

Absurd comparisons, twisting the truth

“Just two months ago, surveys showed that Mamata Banerjee’s support base had not diminished, despite 15 years of anti-incumbency. In fact, the BJP was up by only 1%. This means there is still strong support for Mamata Banerjee,” Arfa claimed while accusing the BJP of exploiting the situation. Her concerns appeared to be more focused on the state elections and the detrimental effects of the violence on Mamata Banerjee’s prospects for victory over the issues faced by the Hindu victims.

She subsequently drew ludicrous parallels with the Karni Sena and even referred to the Shaheen Bagh agitation, which played a significant role in the anti-Hindu riots in Delhi and the farmers’ protests, which were marred with multiple violent incidents including the attack on the Red Fort and police personnel on Republic Day, as peaceful demonstrations.

She then completely dismissed that the Hindu community was being targeted, asserting that they are the majority in the state. “BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari claims that this is religious persecution and an attack on Hindus. Such twisting of facts is concerning. Yes, one-third of West Bengal’s population is Muslim, but two-thirds are not. Still, a narrative is being spun that Hindus are under attack,” Arfa shamelessly declared. “West Bengal is a state with a large Muslim population, the second highest in India. Every third person here is Muslim,” she had stated earlier.

If the horrifying events that took place in Murshidabad do not qualify as religious persecution, then what does? The area is predominantly Muslim, and the minority faced attacks solely due to their religious beliefs. While the Muslims remained unaffected, the Hindus were forced to leave only to protect their lives.

She highlighted the inflammatory remarks made by West Bengal Minister Siddiqullah Chowdhury and then expressed admiration for Mamata Banerjee. “She is a strong, resilient leader, a street fighter who has never learned to bow down or accept defeat. She has a massive following, tight administrative control, and is a self-made politician, not born of dynastic privilege. Her contribution to women’s empowerment in Bengal is remarkable,” she lauded the TMC chief.

Significantly, women in Murshidabad have endured molestation and threats of rape from Muslim mobs. Is this how Hindu women are being empowered in West Bengal? The shortcomings of Mamata Banerjee’s administration and governance have been repeatedly laid bare, especially now in the riot-affected area. The truth is that the might and authority of Mamata Banerjee, as well as that of the opposition, appear to be reduced to mere ashes in the face of vote bank politics.

Blame news channels, no Hindu persecution

On 15th April, Newslaundry published a piece titled, “Bhaijaan ka plan, Kashmiri Pandits, Israel protest: TV spin to Murshidabad violence” attacking the news channels for reporting on the miserable condition of Hindus in Murshidabad in the wake of Islamist violence. “If mainstream news channels are to be believed, the eastern West Bengal district is a hub of ‘terrorism’ where a ‘Hindu exodus’ is underway as government authorities look the other way,” the article mocked.

It further alleged, “There have been reports of hundreds fleeing their homes to escape the violence. But no substantiated evidence has emerged so far confirming systematic targeting based on religious identity at such a scale. The narrative of Hindus being specifically victimised has primarily originated from Hindutva-affiliated sources and political actors, especially the BJP camp.”

One cannot realistically expect this media outlet to be forthright, particularly if it might displease its primary audience. Nevertheless, it is rather audacious of them to deceive their readers and consider them as gullible enough to believe whatever narrative is being promoted by the platform. A multitude of videos have appeared online illustrating the persecution of Hindus in Murshidabad, leading to their forced exodus.

Their residences have been set ablaze, robbed and defaced. Hindu women have been molested and received rape threats. They have been pressured to have sexual relations with their tormentors to ensure the safety of the men in their households. Several women have escaped with their newborns to avoid the violence. The drinking water supply in Hindu homes had been poisoned. Hindus have been assaulted, looted and threatened with death by the Muslim assailants, including minors. The situation bears a disturbing resemblance to that in Bangladesh and Pakistan.

However, for Newslaundry, it appears that even a Taliban-style execution of Hindus would not be sufficient to convey the community’s anguish. Similar to The Wire, Newslaundry is also committed to present distortion and disinformation in the name of facts. They understand that the attacks are directed solely at Hindus due to their religious identity. Yet, they are resolutely focused on minimizing the severe targeting of Hindus.

The article added, “While the West Bengal government and the state police are yet to make any official statements about claims of Hindus being forced to ‘flee’ Murshidabad, the Calcutta High Court has asked the state and the central government to submit detailed reports on the situation.” What government would genuinely be honest and inform that the situation is profoundly dire in the state it governs, specifically, a party like TMC that relies heavily on the Muslim community as its main voter base.

However, if everything were indeed satisfactory, why would the Calcutta High Court step in? What is the reason for the presence of central forces in West Bengal? Are the accounts from victims and the reports from the state somehow contrived? Are Hindus orchestrating attacks against themselves to frame Islamists?

Newslaundry further complained that the “news channels have thrown all (Press Council of India) regulations out the window and made unsubstantiated claims about Hindus becoming ‘refugees in their own country.’ Some invoked the plight of Kashmiri Pandits, some claimed a terrorist link to the violence, while some alleged a Bangladesh connection.” While it may not be suitable to make hasty assumptions, if a community is compelled to abandon its home due to violence from another group, what term could be used to describe it if not refugees?

Were Kashmiri Pandits not also driven from their homes due to Islamic terrorism? However, this cabal even denies their sufferings and derides movies like “The Kashmir Files,” which bravely represented the same on the big screen. It is a known fact that Murshidabad shares a border with Bangladesh. The unlawful influx from the country into India is also a well-documented reality.

Bangladeshi extremists, with the support of local political party leaders, reportedly played a role in the recent unrest in Murshidabad. According to sources citing an intelligence report, the violence in Murshidabad was carried out by members of two extremist groups located in Bangladesh: Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT) and Jamaat-ul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). The violence was perpetrated by Bangladeshis who were assisted by local political party leaders. The situation is being constantly monitored by the Union Home Ministry.

Accuse the BJP, Hindus and deflect blame

One of the favoured figures among extremist Muslims, Rana Ayyub, shared a tweet by Sagarika Ghose, TMC Rajya Sabha member, which allegedly referenced a man’s claim that non-local teenagers were assaulting the Hindus, while local Hindu and Muslim youths were defending the temple. The temple human chain trope has been extensively employed by this tribe, resulting in a complete loss of its originality and impact. Furthermore, the two purported journalists aimed to shift the blame from the Islamists to external parties, thereby undermining the hardships faced by the Hindu community.

The propaganda piece published by Newslaundry was also shared by radical Mohammed Zubair, who is associated with Alt News, notorious for catering to the Muslim fanatics in the name of fact checks. Each of them has been intent on aiding the culprits by manipulating the facts in their favour. The values of truth, justice and human rights, which they profess to uphold, are nowhere to be found as they do not fit their agenda. These lofty terms, anyway, are tools to further their propaganda and serve no other purpose for them.

Saba Naqvi asserted that the violent protests against the Waqf Act only serve to benefit the very forces responsible for enacting the legislation. Nonetheless, she failed to explain how because those behind the riots do not support or vote for the BJP. They are, in fact, supporters of “secular” parties like the TMC, which accounts for the seemingly submissive behaviour of opposition leaders towards them and their efforts to perpetually pander to them.

She invoked Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and the idea of peaceful protests, knowing well that the Muslim fanatics are unconcerned with either. These statements are crafted merely to trick the unsuspecting.

Ravish Kumar, another spokesperson for this infamous ecosystem and alleged journalist, quickly came to the defense of the rioters, asserting that the reports emerging from the state are inflated and unreliable. He argued that the accounts of violence in West Bengal should not be accepted without scrutiny. He maintained that many of these reports are propagated by what he refers to as “Godi media,” a pejorative term for news outlets that do not share his twisted ideology.

Conclusion

The Islamo-Leftist nexus is predictably engaged in negating the violent attacks on Hindus, claiming that they are not specifically aimed at the community. However, if this is true, it begs the question of why there have been no complaints from the Muslim community and why it is primarily Hindus who are fleeing their homes. Why have only Hindus experienced hardship while the other community remains largely unscathed by these brutal circumstances?

The truth is that propaganda, no matter how powerful, cannot overshadow the reality that Hindus have been targeted not only in Murshidabad but also in other regions due to their faith. The Waqf Act serves merely as a pretext for those who perpetrate violence against Hindus, as they are aware that parties like the TMC cannot risk offending them, given their reliance on their votes. Furthermore, their advocates in the media will readily defend them, regardless of their actions. This has been tried and tested over decades and is once again evident in Murshidabad.

Just as TMC did, these people also strive to misrepresent the truth and attribute blame to all but the actual culprits.

Bangladesh suspends import of Indian yarn: Trade relations take another hit

OpIndia Staff
-
0
Bangladesh suspends import of Indian yarn: Trade relations take another hit

India-Bangladesh relations have been spiralling down since the Muhammad Yuus-led interim regime held the reins in Bangladesh after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government following a violent uprising in August last year. After India announced the termination of its trans-shipment facility for Bangladesh on 9th April, Bangladesh on Sunday (13th April) suspended the import of yarn from India through land ports.

The land ports of Benapole, Bhomra, Sonamasjid, Banglabandha, and Burimari were the main entry points of Indian yarn into Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh interim government has cited losses to local textile millers due to imported raw materials for the garment industry as the reason behind the move. The government said that the local yarn manufacturers are not able to compete with imported yarn, which is cheaper. In February this year, the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) requested the interim government to cease yarn imports from India via land ports. The BTMA claimed local producers were facing significant financial losses due to cheaper rates of Indian yarn. This led to the interim government temporarily suspending imports via land ports in March this year.

As per reports, the interim government of Bangladesh closed three land ports and suspended one land port with India, citing a lack of necessary infrastructure. The decision made by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) of Bangladesh to protect the local textile and spinning sector did not sit right with Bangladeshi garment and knitwear exporters. The move is reportedly intended to increase imports from Pakistan. However, importing raw material from Pakistan is likely to increase the import time and prices multiple times as compared to the time taken in importing yarn from India. This will eventually affect the local garment exporters’ ability to compete in a global market.

India terminated the trans-shipment facility for Bangladesh

Earlier this month, India terminated the trans-shipment facility for Bangladesh, which allowed the latter to export its products to other countries through Indian seaports and airports. The facility, granted in 2020, allowed Bangladeshi exporters to ship their cargo to India by road or rail, from where they were further shipped to other countries. Under this facility, Bangladesh sent container trucks from the Petrapole Land Port located on the India-Bangladesh border, the largest land port in South Asia, to Kolkata port, Kolkata Airport’s air cargo complex, and Nhavasheva Port in Maharashtra. Similarly, Bangladeshi exporters could ship their products from Petrapole Land Port, Gede Land Port or Ranaghat Land Port using freight trains to Nhavasheva Port, also known as Jawaharlal Nehru Port. From the ports and airports in India, the cargo was then shipped to its final destination countries. Bangladesh’s textile sector benefited majorly from the facility.

India’s decision to terminate the trans-shipment facility came after Bangladeshi Chief Advisor Md Yunus made controversial remarks on North East India. During his four-day visit to China last week, Yunus pitched for the extension of the Chinese economy, saying that as Northeast India is landlocked, Dhaka is the “only guardian of the ocean for all this region”.

Supreme Court to hear multiple petitions challenging the Waqf Act today, Hindu groups file intervention plea supporting the amendment

ANI
-
0
Supreme Court to hear multiple petitions challenging the Waqf Act today, Hindu groups file intervention plea supporting the amendment

The Supreme Court’s Chief Justice’s bench will hear multiple petitions challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 legislation at 2 p.m. on Wednesday.

Appearing on behalf of Hindu Sena chief Vishnu Gupta, Advocate Barun Kumar Sinha filed an intervention application in the Supreme Court, defending the recent amendments. “We have prayed that the amendment that was brought in in Waqf Act 1995 is absolutely in consonance with the Constitution of India. Nobody’s fundamental right has been violated. This amendment has been brought after the Govt of India carried out a very deep study on the complaints received from various parts of the country,” Sinha said.

He further added that the changes were introduced following an extensive government review of complaints across the country and were meant to reform “draconian provisions” of the original Act.

Sinha further said,” Those amendments are absolutely in the teeth of the Constitutional provisions. So, nobody’s fundamental right has been violated. So, we are challenging the very locus standi of the petitioners because these petitioners belong to some of the political parties, and those political parties have brought in these writ petitions. So, we will bring in all these facts before the Supreme Court and oppose any interim prayer made by these petitioners before the Supreme Court.”

Meanwhile, Advocate Pradeep Yadav, representing petitioners Tayyab Ahmed Sulemani and Anjum Qadri, confirmed that their pleas were listed before the Chief Justice’s bench at 2 PM.

Yadav said, “The petitions have been notified for 2 pm. The matter will be heard at 2 pm in the court of the Chief Justice. I am representing two people; we have two writ petitioners, one by Tayyab Ahmed Sulemani and the other by Anjum Qadri. Our argument on both writ petitions is that they should be admitted, following which we have demanded an interim stay. It means that there should be a stay on implementation.”

Furthermore, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, alleging that the legislation violates fundamental Constitutional provisions and threatens the autonomy of Muslim religious institutions.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Member of Parliament Asaduddin Owaisi, Congress MPs Mohammad Jawed and Imran Pratapgarhi, MP Mahua Moitra, AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan, MLA from National People’s Party India (NPP) party in Manipur Sheikh Noorul Hassan, MP and President of the Azad Samaj Party Chandra Shekhar Azad, Samajwadi Party MP from Sambhal Zia Ur Rehman Barq, President of the Islamic cleric’s body Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind Maulana Arshad Madani, Kerala Sunni scholars’ body Samastha Kerala Jamiatul Ulema, Social Democratic Party of India, Indian Union Muslim League, and NGO Association for Protection of Civil Rights have already approached the top court against the Act.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Manoj Jha, Faiyaz Ahmad MP in Rajya Sabha from Bihar’s RJD, and RJD MLA from Bihar Muhammad Izhar Asfi have also challenged it.

The ruling party in Tamil Nadu, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), through its MP A Raja, who was a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf Bill, also approached the apex court against the Act. The Communist Party of India, through its General Secretary D Raja and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President and actor Vijay, have also challenged the Act.

In his plea, Javed, who was also a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, said that the Act discriminates against the Muslim community by imposing restrictions that are not present in the governance of other religious endowments.

In support of the amended legislation, Satish Kumar Aggarwal of the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha and Hindu Sena President Vishnu Gupta have submitted applications defending the law.

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, received Presidential assent on April 5 and came into force on April 8. Following a 12-hour debate, the Rajya Sabha passed it with 128 votes in favour and 95 against. The Lok Sabha passed the bill earlier with a margin of 288 to 232.

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

Andhra Pradesh: Muslim family allegedly kills daughter for marrying Dalit man

OpIndia Staff
-
0
Andhra Pradesh: Muslim family allegedly kills daughter for marrying Dalit man

On 13th April, 26-year-old Muslim woman identified as Yasmin Banu was allegedly beheaded by her father and brother for marrying a Dalit man against the family’s wishes. According to Chittoor police, she was an MBA graduate from Balajinagar Colony. She came in contact with Sai Teja, a Dalit man and a B.Tech graduate.

The duo fell in love during college time. When Sai Teja approached her family seeking permission to marry Yasmin, the family did not accept the proposal. Later, on 9th February, the duo got married in Nellore and approached the police seeking protection from threats. Authorities confirmed that the marriage was consensual and provided initial counselling to both families.

Police also warned the families not to disturb or put the couple in harm’s way as they were both adults. However, Yasmin’s family continued to contact her. Three days before the alleged murder, her siblings asked her to come and meet their father as his health had worsened. Sai Teja dropped Yasmin at Gandhi Statue Junction in Chittoor, from where her brother picked her up. That was the last time he saw his wife.

Hours later, Teja tried to contact Yasmin over the phone but failed. He rushed to her parental home, where he was informed that she had died by suicide and her body had been taken to the hospital. Her father, Shoukat Ali, and cousin Lalu, who had taken the body to the mortuary, fled the scene and are currently absconding.

Sai Teja suspected foul play and approached Chittoor police, alleging Yasmin’s family murdered her and accused them of passing off an incident of honour killing as suicide. Police officials, including DSP Prabhakar and Circle Inspectors Nettikantayya and Maheshwar, have launched a probe into the case. The investigation has been initiated, and Yasmin’s mother is currently in police custody for questioning.

However, her father and cousin remain untraceable. Yasmin’s body is in the government hospital mortuary, awaiting post-mortem and forensic analysis.

Bihar: Ashraf pretended to be Sumit and sexually exploited a Hindu woman, forced her to eat beef, read namaz and convert to Islam to get married to him

OpIndia Staff
-
0
Bihar: Ashraf pretended to be Sumit and sexually exploited a Hindu woman, forced her to eat beef, read namaz and convert to Islam to get married to him

A case of alleged love jihad has come to light from Lakhisarai in Bihar. A Hindu woman working as a Block Project Manager (BPM) in the local education department has accused her partner, Qamal Ashraf, employed as a clerk in the same department, of forcing her to eat beef, read namaz and convert to Islam. The woman has alleged that Ashraf first established sexual relations with her in 2012 when she was a minor by pretending to be a Hindu man named Sumit. She said that he has been sexually exploiting her for 13 years, and they have a son.

An FIR was lodged at the Suryagarh police station on 12th April on the woman’s complaint. She, however, alleged that she approached the police on 8th April to file a case against Ashraf, but she was asked to come back the next day on 9th April. When she arrived the next day, she was questioned for hours, and the FIR was finally registered on 12th April. According to SP Lakhisarai Ajay Kumar, the victim and the accused had a love marriage. A case has been registered, and the police are investigating the allegations, including the allegation of forced religious conversion.

Ashraf forced her to eat beef and convert to Islam to marry him

As per reports, the woman alleged that Ashraf met her when she was 16. At that time, he used to work at Janta High School, Alinagar, where she was a student. The woman said that Ashraf befriended her and had physical relations with her by hiding his identity and pretending to be a Hindu named Sumit. He took her to several places, including Jamui, Asansol and Munger and continued to have sexual relations with her.

In 2014, she became pregnant and requested Ashraf to get the pregnancy aborted, but he refused. By that time, she had attained majority. The matter reached court, where Ashraf promised to marry her. In 2015, after giving birth to their child, she insisted on getting married to Ashraf. However, he forced her to convert to Islam, eat beef and read namaz to get married to him.

Ashraf said that Hindu women are objects of enjoyment

Things became worse for her when she refused to convert to Islam. Ashraf allegedly physically assaulted her and their child in September 2024, for refusing to read namaz. She sustained fractures in her left hand and leg. He circulated her private pictures when she refused to accept his conditions.

It is also alleged that Ashraf prevented her from following Hindu religious rituals and told her that Hindu women are objects of enjoyment and that it is mandatory for them to convert to Islam to become the wife of a Muslim man. On February 20, 2025, Ashraf allegedly brought 3 men with him and pressured her to have sexual relations with them to get married to him.

Over 40 Christians shot dead by Islamic Fulani terrorists in Nigeria on Palm Sunday, hundreds of houses destroyed

OpIndia Staff
-
0
Over 40 Christians shot dead by Islamic Fulani terrorists in Nigeria on Palm Sunday, hundreds of houses destroyed

Islamic Fulani terrorists killed dozens of Christians in Nigeria late Sunday night. On Monday (14th April), the Nigerian President Bola Tinubu said that around 40 members of a Christian farming community in the country’s north-central part were gunned down by Islamic terrorists. President Tinubu is also reported to have ordered an investigation into the late Sunday night attacks on the Zike community. Some reports say that over 60 Christians were killed in the attack carried out by Islamic terrorists on Palm Sunday at Bassa, Plateau State.

“I have instructed security agencies to thoroughly investigate this crisis and identify those responsible for orchestrating these violent acts,” Tinubu said.

As per Amnesty International, the victims included children and the elderly, and they were taken by surprise and could not flee from the gunmen.

Reports say that in addition to those killed, several people have suffered injuries, while some are missing. Apart from the shooting, more than 300 homes were also destroyed by the attackers, leaving more than 3,000 people displaced. This latest attack brings the death toll to around 113 people who have been killed in an ongoing spate of attacks in Plateau State since March.

Andy Yakubu, a local resident and eyewitness, said that during the attack, the Islamic terrorists destroyed and looted homes in the Zike community, located in the Bassa area of Plateau state, NPR reported.

Earlier this month, it was reported that over 60 Christians were killed by Fulani jihadis on 2nd-3rd April in Nigeria’s Plateau state. Plateau state Gov. Caleb Mutfwang reportedly called Fulani attacks genocide.

A local Christian community leader Maren Aradong had said that the attacks were carried out against seven Christian communities in Bokkos County, including Hurti village, where more than 40 Christians were killed.  “More than 1,000 Christians were displaced [in Hurti] during the attacks, and 383 houses were destroyed by these bandits. These attacks began on Wednesday, 2 April, at about 3 p.m., when these armed Muslim Fulani herdsmen invaded our communities in large numbers; they came on motorcycles and attacked us,” Aradong informed Christian Daily International-Morning Star News.

While the Christian community perpetually lives under the threat of Islamic terrorism, the attacks against them increase during the farming season.

‘Danda (stick) is the only treatment for rioters’: Yogi Adityanath hits out at Mamata govt over Murshidabad violence, praises Waqf Amendment Act

OpIndia Staff
-
0
‘Danda (stick) is the only treatment for rioters’: Yogi Adityanath hits out at Mamata govt over Murshidabad violence, praises Waqf Amendment Act

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on 16th April launched a sharp attack over violence in Murshidabad, accusing the West Bengal Mamata Banerjee-led government of remaining silent while the situation worsens and added that “danda (stick)” is the “only treatment for rioters.” He further declared, “Laton ke bhoot baaton se kahan manne wale hain (Those who understand only force, won’t understand words).”

“Bengal is burning. The Chief Minister of the state is silent. She calls rioters ‘messengers of peace.’ But those who understand only force won’t listen to words. In the name of secularism, they have given complete freedom to rioters to create unrest. The entire Murshidabad has been on fire for the last week, yet the government remains silent. Such anarchy must be brought under control,” he stated during a rally in Madhoganj in Hardoi district, where he participated in the victory day celebration of freedom fighter Raja Narpat Singh.

“I thank the judiciary there for deploying central forces to ensure the safety of the minority Hindus in the area. The Congress is silent on the riots in Murshidabad. The Samajwadi Party is also quiet. Instead of condemning the violence, they’re offering veiled support,” he stated and further highlighted, “They (rioters) are issuing threats after threats. They are shamelessly supporting what happened in Bangladesh. Anyone glorifying what happened in Bangladesh should simply go there. Why be a burden on India’s soil?”

Yogi Adityanath also praised Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for passing the Waqf Amendment Act. “We are grateful to PM Modi and Amit Shah, who, by passing the Waqf Amendment Act, have put an end to the looting of poor people’s land. Now, the recovered land will be used to build hospitals, houses for the poor, schools, and universities. The looting of land has come to an end, and that’s why these people are upset. They are trying to mislead the public,” he conveyed.

The UP CM added that only strong action, not just words, would deter rioters, drawing a comparison between the state of law and order in West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh prior to 2017. “Before 2017, UP was plagued by frequent riots. We restored law and order because rioters only understand one language, the language of Danda (sticks). Mere words won’t stop them,” he pointed out.

On Vijay Diwas in 1857, he presented floral tribute to Raja Narpat Singh, the renowned hero of India’s first independence struggle. He emphasized the significance of the historical location as well as the heritage of Raja Narpat Singh’s fort and land, which are particularly revered in the surrounding districts. He  also launched 729 development projects totaling ₹650 crore.

In the Muslim-majority region of Murshidabad in northern Bengal, three individuals lost their lives and numerous Hindu families were attacked, threatened, looted and forced to flee as protests against Waqf Amendment Act escalated into widespread communal violence. In response to the situation, the Calcutta High Court intervened after a petition from the BJP leaders, leading to the deployment of central forces in the affected areas, who are now engaged in regular patrols to help restore law and order.

(With input from ANI)

Bulldozer razes 50-year-old illegal mosque in Faridabad over forest land encroachment, says civic body

OpIndia Staff
-
0
Bulldozer razes 50-year-old illegal mosque in Faridabad over forest land encroachment, says civic body

On 15th April, the Faridabad Municipal Corporation demolished a 50-year-old mosque in Jamai Colony, Badkhal village. The civic body took action stating that the structure was an illegal encroachment on reserved forest land. The matter travelled from the Punjab and Haryana High Court to the Supreme Court of India over several years. The corporation cited directions from the Supreme Court as the legal basis for the action. However, local Muslims claimed that the matter was still sub judice.

Police-secured demolition in disputed zone

The demolition was carried out amid tight security. Around 250 police personnel, along with three Assistant Commissioners of Police, were deployed to ensure a smooth process. The municipal team arrived with bulldozers in the early morning and cleared the mosque along with other illegal constructions in the vicinity.

The area around the mosque was cordoned off. Locals claimed that they were not allowed within 100 metres of the mosque. Police reportedly warned of a lathi-charge if anyone tried to approach, claimed a local. A fire brigade team was also deployed at the site in case of an emergency.

Legal and local claims collide

The Municipal Corporation insisted that the structure was illegal and located on protected forest land. However, residents asserted that the land belonged to Badkhal village. They claimed that the demolition was in contempt of court, as the matter is sub judice.

A local resident told Dainik Bhaskar that the land was donated by former village sarpanch Rakka for the mosque. He said, “The mosque was built on a 40×80 yard portion out of a 600–700 square yard plot. A committee of 17–18 villagers is fighting the case in the Supreme Court. They had earlier built a boundary wall around the area and had said no action would be taken against the mosque. This demolition, while the case is still pending in the apex court, amounts to contempt.”

Civic body defends action, stresses illegality

On the other hand, the corporation’s legal advisor, Satish Acharya, firmly rejected the objections raised by the locals. He said, “The structure was an encroachment on government land. This is a reserved forest area under the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA). As per Supreme Court orders, no encroachment is allowed on such land. This was an illegal structure, and we have removed it accordingly.”

He added, “This is not the first time we have acted. All those who have grabbed government land will face action. We are recommending the area be handed back to the Forest Department for jungle restoration. This is forest land, and it must remain forest land.”

Land dispute running for over two decades

The land dispute at the site has reportedly been contested for over 20–25 years. The municipal corporation has continued to assert its authority over the land, while residents have maintained that it was community land given specifically for religious purposes.

Islamist violence in Murshidabad: BJP leaders like Suvendu Adhikari and Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury step up to help Hindu victims while TMC indulges in blame game

Rukma Rathore
-
0
Islamist violence in Murshidabad: BJP leaders like Suvendu Adhikari and Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury step up to help Hindu victims while TMC indulges in blame game

As violence erupted on 11th April in different areas of West Bengal, notably in the Muslim-majority Murshidabad district bordering Bangladesh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to help the victims when the administration failed to do so. The violence, instigated by Islamists, including even minors, was supposedly to oppose the Waqf Amendment Act. During the violence, Hindus found themselves abandoned and at the mercy of the radicals, .

“They burnt shops and vandalised houses. We want BSF presence here permanently if things are to be peaceful. A police station is very close to here, but they didn’t come,” a local narrated the ordeal of the Hindus. Numerous individuals expressed their concerns about the absence of police while Islamists were demolishing their homes, properties and even endangering their lives.

“My shop is located right in front of my house. As soon as the attacks began, I called the police station. Later, they (Islamists) broke into my house as well. They smashed the door and looted everything inside. For over four hours, the unrest continued, but no administrative help came,” disclosed a Hindu victim.

“They vandalised and torched so many things, including bikes. My uncle’s shops were vandalised, and they also took away things that were in the shops. We couldn’t sleep the entire night due to fear. The police weren’t here when it all happened. Police personnel themselves were running away when the rioters attacked a police station,” unveiled another. They even issued rape and death threats, molested females, pressuring them, especially women to leave their houses with their infants.

The members of the Hindu community requested the presence of central forces in the area, citing a lack of protection from the police. People even demanded President’s rule due to the grave situation. Meanwhile, Calcutta High Court ordered the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in the Murshidabad district.

The development transpired after BJP leaders including Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari and Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury approached the court seeking placement of central forces in the region and submitted that the state police department was unable to keep the situation under control. Many BJP leaders and members, alongside Adhikari, took the initiative to help the victims. They organized relief supplies, such as food, water and medicine, to ensure that the affected families received basic amenities.

On the other hand, while some people endeavored to return to their homes with the support of Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, the District Administration and Superintendents of Police restricted access to these locations for the distribution of relief materials, according to Adhikari. “I have been sending emails in this regard but still haven’t received any response from their side,” he added.

He also appealed to charitable organizations like the Ramakrishna Mission, Bharat Sevashram Sangha, and ISKCON to assist those in need by providing food supplies and drinking water. He also provided his email address for individuals who have access to these areas and are willing to assist but require a local contact for logistical support. “I would also like to request His Excellency Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, Dr CV Ananda Bose to kindly mobilise the Red Cross Society’s West Bengal unit so that they can visit the affected areas for distribution of relief materials,” he added.

The MLA from Nandigram has also reached out to Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw, urging him to transfer the investigation into the multiple acts of vandalism occurring at the railway stations in Murshidabad district to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

BJP leaders help the affected Hindus

Union Minister and BJP West Bengal president Dr Sukanta Majumdar went to Malda on 14th April to meet the Hindu families who were forced to escape to the area after the anti-Hindu riots in Murshidabad. “The stories they shared were horrifying and heartbreaking, clear evidence of targeted violence and fear. I have written in detail to the Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, urging immediate and decisive action,” he informed and further stressed, “The safety and dignity of these vulnerable hindu citizens must be protected at all costs. This is not just a law and order issue, it is a humanitarian crisis. I appeal for swift intervention.”

Majumdar met the displaced families in Paralal High School grounds of Malda earlier and assured them of assistance. “We stand firmly with them in this time of crisis. We will never tolerate jihadi brutality against the innocent Bengali Hindus of West Bengal,” he added.

The BJP leader made a visit to a control room established to assist Hindus seeking refuge in Malda and engaged in discussions with party volunteers who are providing support to them. He even provided phone numbers for reporting any violence against Hindus.

Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhurya, popularly known as (Nirbhaya Didi) has been consistently engaging with Hindu victims taking refuge in Malda. She also shared contact numbers and announced the establishment of a special control room at the Malda district office to assist persecuted Hindus.

Chaudhurya also collaborated with the central forces to ensure the safety, security, and protection of 294 displaced Hindu women and girls who sought emergency shelter at Parlalpur School. They were also provided with food.

Several BJP leaders such as MLA Gopal Chowdhury Saha, Chinmoy Deb Barman, Jewel Murmu, Budhurai Tudu, Satyen Roy, Malda South District President Ajay Ganguly also visited Parlalpur High School to reach out to the victims of the violence. The legislators reportedly offered their assistance, including a donation of one month’s salary.

Centre monitors the situation, BSF promises peace

On 12th April, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan convened a video conference with West Bengal Chief Secretary Manoj Pant and Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar to review the prevailing situation. He announced that in addition to the nearly 300 BSF personnel currently stationed in Murshidabad, five more companies were dispatched.

The Union Home Ministry recommended the state administration to maintain vigilance of other sensitive districts and implement necessary measures to restore normalcy promptly. The Home Secretary further stated that the centre had been actively observing the situation and assured the state of comprehensive support, including the possibility of sending more forces if required.

On 14th April, a delegation from the BSF, headed by Additional Director General (East) Ravi Gandhi, conducted a visit to various troubled areas within the jurisdictions of the Suti and Samserganj police stations, including Dhulian. He was joined by Inspector General Karni Singh Shekhawat, representing the South Bengal Frontier, along with other senior officials.

Gandhi mentioned, “We spoke to people and assured them of their safety and security. We interacted with the locals and our jawans posted there. The situation is slowly returning to normal.” He added, “Some locals complained about disturbances at night. We have assured them of all possible help and are working to eliminate any security gaps.”

BJP’s selfless service

It is noteworthy that the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC or TMC) has at least 18 MLAs from Murshidabad, whereas the BJP has merely two. However, during times of need for the Hindu community, the latter was present to provide assistance, visiting them and offering every possible support, while the other lawmakers were absent.

While the BJP was at the forefront of managing the crisis, representatives from the impacted regions, including former cricketer and Baharampur MP Yusuf Pathan, Murshidabad MP Abu Taher Khan and Maldaha Dakshin MP Isha Khan Choudhury were conspicuously missing. Pathan was, in fact, occupied with posting on social media during the turmoil.

As the TMC and its ecosystem has been focused on attributing blame to others and evading accountability for the actions of the Islamists, the BJP has been consistently working to aid the victims of the violence in Murshidabad. The latter is actively engaged both online and offline in assisting the victims, while those in power as well as leaders from other parties such as Congress and the Left, are absent from the ground.

This is largely because they also rely on the same voter base that is rioting and cannot afford to take actions that might displease them, including providing aid to the Hindu victims of Islamist violence. The local populace is aware of the circumstances and therefore sought help from the central government headed by the BJP and not the state authorities.

Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury, the BJP MLA representing English Bazar, has been actively collaborating with the BSF, providing continuous real-time updates to assist in saving lives. She has contested the Lok Sabha elections as a BJP candidate from Malda South on two occasions. Although she has not secured a victory, her dedication to serving the local community remains unwavering, contrasting sharply with the winning MPs who have failed to engage with their constituents.

Clearly, this is not the sole instance in which Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s administration has disappeared during the violence perpetrated by Islamists, prompting BJP leaders to speak out on behalf of Hindus and offer their support. On 11th April, Suvendu Adhikari visited the Mothabari area in the Malda district of West Bengal and spoke with people devastated by the recent attack by Muslim fanatics. 

He added that after not hearing back from the district police superintendent on his requests to travel to the impacted areas, he was forced to obtain permission from the Calcutta High Court to make his way there. “Atrocties have been committed against Hindus in Mothabari. They have been assaulted and their houses and shops ransacked. We are here to stand with them. There is a petition at Calcutta High Court alleging police inaction in Mothabari. I am sure the court will look into the matter,” he emphasised.

Additionally, the BJP leader distributed financial assistance and other relief supplies to the Hindu families. “We have made an estimate of damages to houses and shops. We have given some monetary help. More will be done,” he outlined.

Sukanta Majumdar attempted to visit the area but was stopped by the police while other prominent leaders such as Dilip Ghosh and MP Khagen Murmu organized a protest in Malda, surrounding the District Magistrate’s office. They chanted slogans and called for prompt action on significant local matters.

BJP: Only hope for Hindus in West Bengal, India

The BJP is arguably the sole political party advocating for Hindu rights and opposing Islamic terrorism, not just in West Bengal but across the nation. The party held a protest against the TMC government addressing several issues such as the recent assaults on Hindus and various scams including related to the SSC (School Service Commission). It remains unaffected by the influence of the Muslim vote bank and possesses the courage to speak the uncomfortable truths without the concern of alienating any voter demographic.

The BJP leaders are the only ones who confront the Islamist violence, whereas other political parties hesitate to do so for fear of losing votes, thereby condoning anti-Hindu violence under the guise of secularism. Adhikari even called out the TMC lawmakers and pointed out that MLAs who secured landslide victories are unable to exert control over the situation, as the entirety of Murshidabad and Malda is under the sway of radical groups affiliated with the Popular Front of India (PFI), the Students’ Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) and the Ansarul Bangla Team.

Meanwhile, other parties have always shied away from calling a spade a spade and even shown reluctance to act against Islamic extremism for fear of jeopardizing Muslim support. As a result, it is fair to state that the BJP is chiefly concerned with the welfare of Hindus, protecting their lives and property in the face of Islamic terror. Yet, it is important to note that the BJP is the only party that treats all citizens equally and does not believe in appeasing any particular group.

Their focus is on safeguarding the country’s historical roots and culture while providing equal opportunities and safety to all citizens, without excluding anyone for electoral purposes which also reflects in their policies and actions as opposed to other political parties who are always ready to scarfice Hindus at the alter of their secularism for some votes. The influence of votebank politics has stripped them of even basic human empathy.

Chhattisgarh: 150 Hindu students forced to offer namaz at NSS camp, students point to broader efforts to influence their beliefs

OpIndia Staff
-
0
Chhattisgarh: 150 Hindu students forced to offer namaz at NSS camp, students point to broader efforts to influence their beliefs

A major controversy has erupted in Bilaspur’s Guru Ghasidas Central University after over 150 Hindu students alleged they were coerced into offering namaz during an NSS (National Service Scheme) camp, a report published in Organiser said. The students have filed a formal complaint at Koni police station, accusing camp officials of religious coercion, manipulation, and threats of withholding participation certificates.

The incident occurred during a week-long NSS camp (March 26–April 1) in Shivtarai forest. On March 31, Eid-ul-Fitr, the coordinator reportedly invited four Muslim students to pray on stage, then allegedly instructed Hindu students to mimic the namaz. Students claimed it was part of a larger effort to influence their beliefs under the guise of cultural exchange.

Despite objections, they say they were threatened with disciplinary action if they refused. Phones were confiscated, preventing documentation of the incident.

A complaint has been filed against program officer Dr. Basant Kumar, coordinator Dilip Jha, and others. Koni Station House Officer Lakheswar Kewat confirmed a preliminary probe is underway.

The university denied receiving official complaints but has formed a Fact-Finding Committee in response to media reports. “We’re taking the matter seriously,” said media in-charge MN Tripathi.

Allegations of Religious radicalism resurface

This isn’t the first time the university has faced such accusations. In 2022, concerns were raised over the Muslim Students Federation (MSF) allegedly targeting Hindu students for conversion through social media and peer manipulation. Students claimed they were added to MSF WhatsApp groups without consent and lured under the guise of campus assistance.

An unauthorised Instagram page using the university logo also emerged, prompting an internal investigation. Vice Chancellor Prof. Alok Chakrawal warned that unapproved groups misusing the university’s name would face strict action.

With tensions rising, calls are growing for transparency and strict accountability to safeguard campus secularism and student well-being.

1...397398399...7,603Page 398 of 7,603